The Dominican Republic has become a mecca for great beaches and sunshine, but there’s a whole lot more going on in the northern province of Puerto Plata.
Although more tourists still flock to the better known Punta Cana on the Caribbean side, “Plata” is gaining ground due to its great beaches and resorts. Plus there’s some pretty unorthodox, even way out, things happening — things you would not expect to find in such a sunny paradise.
Take monster trucking, for example. When I learned this redneck, ’90s pastime had somehow made it to the Dominican, I just had to go for it. A short time later I found myself roaring through the back roads in an 8×8 zebra-striped beast on a very bumpy and very long monster truck safari!
Sure, the scenery was breathtaking: beautiful sugarcane fields and serene rivers. Was I the only one thinking how out of place our monster truck must have appeared? Still, the monster truck did allow us to get to places where traditional vehicles couldn’t make it, but we got more than a few odd stares while passing through local villages.
Eight hours, and one very sore back later, I was back on the beach contemplating my next adventure.
Bright and early the next morning it was down to the shores of the roaring Yaque Del North river for some very exciting white water rafting. I was full of adrenalin as we battled the wild waters, which rivalled any rapids I’ve tackled in B.C. or Alberta.
The Domincan forests were extra beautiful too, when we landed on a secluded section of the shore for a picnic lunch. Sun, beaches, bars and great resorts are are easy to find in Puerto Plata, but it’s those less travelled adventures that can turn out to be extra exhilarating!
