An Unforgettable Overnight Trip in Puerto Plata

IT'S FRIDAY, and the excitement in the air was palpable as we embarked on our much-anticipated overnight trip. We started our journey by gathering all the students from their homestays, and with everyone on board, we headed towards 27 Charcos de Damajagua in Puerto Plata.

As we arrived at 27 Charcos, the sense of adventure was tangible. The initial 30-minute hike to the first Charco was invigorating, and the cool, refreshing water was a perfect reward after our exertion. The chill of the water against our skin was both shocking and exhilarating, providing a welcome respite from the heat and sweat.

The adventure only intensified as we continued, navigating through natural rock slides and plunging into more puddles and or charcos. Each leap and slide was a thrill, and by the time we reached puddle number seven, we were all buzzing with excitement and joy. The physical activity had worked up our appetites, and we were more than ready for the delicious buffet that awaited us. We indulged in a hearty meal, savoring the local flavors and taking a moment to relax and recharge.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we moved on to our next destination: Hacienda CUFA. This visit was a delightful contrast to our earlier adventures, offering a more educational and sensory-rich experience. At Hacienda CUFA, we learned about the fascinating process of cacao cultivation and chocolate production. The history of the Hacienda, narrated by our hosts, was captivating, and it was inspiring to hear about the founders and their journey.

We immersed ourselves in the world of cacao, observing the intricate process of turning them into chocolate. Tasting the fresh milk chocolate paired with traditional Dominican crackers was a highlight, the combination creating a burst of flavors that was simply divine. Our hosts also treated us to a variety of refreshing juices, including tamarind, lemonade, and cherry, each sip a delight to the senses.

Our day was filled with learning and indulgence, and as the sun began to set, we headed to our hotel to check in and unwind. The anticipation for dinner with our peers added to the excitement, and we enjoyed a lovely meal together, sharing stories and laughter.

After such a packed and exhilarating day, a good night's rest was much needed. We retired to our rooms, ready to recharge for the amazing experiences that awaited us on Saturday. This overnight trip was truly unforgettable, blending adventure, education, and camaraderie in the most wonderful way.

Saturday Adventures at Laguna Gri Gri

We woke up on Saturday with a burst of energy, eagerly anticipating the adventures that lay ahead. After a hearty breakfast, we prepared ourselves for what promised to be one of the best experiences of our lives: a visit to Laguna Gri Gri in Río San Juan. This stunning lagoon, surrounded by mangroves and fed by groundwater that flows into the sea, is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in the Dominican Republic. 

The lagoon's intriguing name, Gri Gri, comes from a species of tree abundant in the area. The gri gri tree, known for its hardwood and prevalence in humid and semi-humid forests, gives the lagoon its unique character and name.

We boarded boats and embarked on an incredible tour, marveling at the natural beauty surrounding us. The dense mangroves, teeming birdlife, and clear waters created a magical atmosphere. Our journey led us to a natural, crystalline pool, where we couldn't resist diving in. We spent a delightful time swimming, taking photos, laughing, and soaking in the special moment with nature as our backdrop.

After our invigorating swim, we returned to the bus and headed back to the hotel for a well-deserved lunch. The afternoon was a perfect blend of relaxation and fun. We enjoyed swimming in the pool and basking in the beauty of the beach, making the most of the serene environment.

As night fell, we gathered for dinner with our peers. The staff surprised the students with a gift, a beautiful bracelets, each adorned with the name of a student a thoughtful gesture that made the evening even more special. We took numerous photos, capturing the joy and camaraderie of the group. The night was filled with laughter and great times, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

The next day, Sunday, marked our departure. As we said our goodbyes, we cherished the bonds we had formed and the incredible experiences we had shared. This trip to Laguna Gri Gri was truly a highlight, blending adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable moments with friends.

Sunday

Our Sunday began with a leisurely breakfast, fueling us for another day of adventure and relaxation. With plenty of time on our hands, we dove into the beach and spent hours playing games in the pool. The morning was filled with laughter and fun, a perfect way to start the day. 

After our beach and pool fun, we headed to Puerto Plata's Centro Histórico. Our first stop was the charming Paseo Doña Blanca, we walked into the pink street that was perfect for taking beautiful photos. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere made it a delightful place to capture memories.

Next, we wandered into the famous umbrella street, an enchanting pathway covered with colorful umbrellas. The sight was mesmerizing, and we couldn't resist taking more photos and soaking in the whimsical ambiance. As we strolled through the streets, we stopped by various shops to buy souvenirs, bringing a piece of Puerto Plata back home with us.

One of the highlights of our day was trying the most amazing ice creams, uniquely served in fruit shells. The flavors were refreshing and delicious, a perfect treat in the tropical heat. This sweet indulgence added a delightful twist to our day, making it even more memorable.

After our adventures in Puerto Plata, we headed home, our hearts full of joy and our bags filled with souvenirs. The day had been a perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and fun. As we rested and recovered our energies, we couldn't help but reflect on the wonderful experiences we had shared. This trip was truly one to remember, filled with moments that we would cherish forever.