This week my friend Alen called and told me that he bought a GroupOn for an All-inclusive resort in Dominican Republic and that if I could fly out I could go at no cost to me other than my transportation. Being that I am now 10 months away from 35 and 2 countries short of my goal of 35 I decided to go.
This took a bit of work as the flights round-trip were pretty expensive. I flew Delta to Orlando and spend the night on September 22nd, 2023 at my friend Jordan’s house then I booked a one way flight for the next morning from Orlando to Puerto Plata on American Airlines using points, only 13k miles and $6.
I had a layover in Miami and when I woke up my flight from Orlando to Miami was delayed so we rushed to the airport and I ran from security and was able to catch the 7AM flight from Orlando to Miami that was on time and the attendants let me do this by stand by since it wasn’t my flight. Then we the flight landed in Miami it couldn’t get to a gate and we state there for almost an hour and I still almost missed the flight from Miami to Puerto Plata. Thankfully it all worked out.
Day 1 – Arrive in Corfresi 09.23.2023
Alen and I arrived at the airport in Puerto Plata. The taxis there are very anti Uber and if you want an uber you have to walk out of the airport and up the road for a bit. We finally got a taxi to agree to slightly above the uber rate. A side note at this airport, similar to most third world countries some airport attendant grabbed our bags at the security checkpoint and carried them out side demanding a tip, so be aware just grab your bags immediately.
The drive from the Puerto Plata airport to Corfresi where the resort is located is about 30 minutes. We stayed at Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa, the Groupon seems to always be going on the but the price changes during hurricane season which was $80/night for two people. Here’s my thoughts on the resort. It was very safe and moderately clean, our first room was dirty and had a vomit stan on the mattress so we changed rooms. Because of the humidity the place is very moldy, I have a mold allergy so that part sucked. The pools were well maintained, the private beach was amazing, the water was perfect temperature, it ranges from 26°C to 28°C (79°F to 82°F) throughout the year. On the beach there is a shop, and some activities such as surfing. The food was mediocre put for all in $40/night per person is unreal and honestly I’d probably do it again.
Day 2 – Isabel de Torres National Park 09.24.2023
I told Alen I didn’t want to just sit at the beach the entire 5 days so we had planned a few non-resort adventures. For today the location was Isabel de Torres National Park. We had the resort call us a driver it was about 15 USD for the drive and took a half hour from the resort. The National Park is a stunning natural reserve known for its lush landscapes and impressive views. The park features a prominent mountain, Pico Isabel de Torres, which is accessible via a cable car offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding region. At the summit, visitors can explore botanical gardens and a replica of Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue. The park is a haven for hiking, nature walks, and bird-watching. The cost to visit Isabel de Torres National Park includes the cable car ride, which typically costs around $10 to $15 USD per person. Entrance to the park itself is usually included in the cable car fee. Beware that when you arrive someone is going to try to offer you a tour guide of the place, this is not necessary at all. There are plenty of information signs as you walk around.
Day 4 – Dominican Adventure Tour 09.26.2023
We relaxed all day on day 3 at the resort and drank since it was all inclusive, so nothing to report there, on day 4 we did a full adventure with a company that we booked through the hotel, which included ATVs, Zipline, and Canyoning.
First stop on the adventure tour was with Puerto Plata Buggies. This tour is an exciting off-road adventure through the scenic landscapes of the Puerto Plata region in the Dominican Republic. We drove through diverse terrains, including lush countryside, muddy trails, and picturesque beaches. The tour often includes stops at local points of interest, such as waterfalls and rural villages, providing a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty and culture. At the end of the tour we stopped at Playa Teco Maimón to swim in the ocean and remove all of the mud.
Next was ziplining, the zip line tour was with Mega Adventures. This adventure included multiple zip lines of varying lengths and heights, providing stunning aerial views of the surrounding tropical landscape. At the start you climb up a bunch of steep narrow stairs and then the adventure begins. After zipling they provided a lunch included with the tour.
Our last stop was the main event for me, the Damajagua 7 Waterfalls excursion. This tour involves hiking through lush tropical forests to reach seven stunning waterfalls, each cascading into natural pools. The beginning starts with a jump, or for those who are timid can climb down a later. You then swim through the canyon and as you get to more waterfalls you can either jump or slide down them.
Tomorrow is my last day and a half day, I am flying out of Cibao International Airport. They had a small lounge for those with priority pass but it was nothing to brag about. The flight back home is with American Airlines, booked with miles 13k and $6 and then a one-way flight with Delta direct changing in Miami. I gave myself plenty of time to make my own layover so I won’t miss the flight. Great adventure, one more country down to 35 with 10 months to go, cheers!