Visiting the Dominican Republic

Just before 10 a.m., the ship anchors in Samana Bay near Samana.

Today, I am taking the Cultural Highlights tour.  Our bus stops in front of the historic Dominican Evangelical Church (aka La Churcha).  The church came across the ocean from England in a hundred pieces and was reassembled here in 1824.  It is the oldest original building left in Samaná.  In 1946 a city-wide fire wiped out most of Samaná's wooden buildings.  Miraculously this church was spared. 

 La Churcha

Our first stop is at the Whaling Museum.  This is a small museum but it serves an important role in educating the public on whales.  Fortunately, we have an English speaking guide because the signs are written in Spanish. 

It is a 35 minute drive to the town of Sanchez.  Here, we take a short walking tour (a couple of blocks).  The government is restoring 18 of the old "Victorian" houses.  The "Victorian" house we toured was a single-story cottage (now being used as a school classroom) with a two-sided porch.

Restoring Buildings to their Former Glory

 

Side Porch

Included in the restoration project is a couple of churches.

 Restored Our Lady of the Lourdes Church – exterior & interior

Our last stop (about a 5 minute drive from the town of Samana) is at Puerto Bahia.  It looks like a nice seaside resort.  At the cafe, we are given a couple slices of pizza and a diet Coke.   I could see myself enjoying the view on one of those comfy seating areas.  Back in town, we pass colorful buildings.  

Puerto Bahia Resort 

Colorful buildings in Samana

My time here on the Dominican Republic is done.  I must return to the ship before it leaves.  From the tender boat, I can see the Bridge to Nowhere.  Maybe next time I am here, I will take the time to walk across the bridge to the small island. 

Bridge to Nowhere

 For more information on visiting the Dominican Republic, click on the following link:

Dominican Republic Tourist Info

or 

Go Dominican Republic