is this your first trip to the DR ?
Sounds like you have a great mom. I am trying to get my daughters to go with me there, as I am in love with the beauty, the people and the culture of this wonderful Island. I have been there 4 times since this past Feb.
(2006) so that says it all. Just cant seem to find a time that they both can go together. Sounds like you and your mom are very close. That is very special, and a trip like this will even mean more because of your already solid bond.
What ever you do, dont limit yourselves by isolating yourself at the AI, it is very easy to do, everything is at your finger tips. But there is so much to see and do there. Just be careful. Alot of the adventurous outtings are not governed by the same safty rules as in other countries. Talk to the Hotels manager, I am sure he can point you in the right direction, talk to other guests, and do not, I repeat DO NOT attempt to drive while in the DR. Do not rent a car and take a trip out on your own. It is a real challenge to drive there. It is probably more dangerous than jumping off a waterfall. I did it once, liked it, but than of course I have been driving for many years, and was with someone who lived there to guide me as to the CRAZY rules of the road. Have the hotel staff at the front desk arrange for a taxi driver for you that speaks English. You will enjoy your trip out of the reosrt if you can communicate with your driver. Most drivers that the hotel sets you up with are good and safe, and very helpful. Remember to tip, but dont go crazy. Remember these people make there living off of tips, but if you tip in US consider the exchange rate. Us currency is the $ of choice. And is right up there next to the Euro Dollar. And remember take cash with you, the ATMs are not reliable, often are empty, and only pay out in pesos. Most hotels do not offer much in the way of money transaction, or exchanges. Do your research ahead of time.
As you already know about this sight, ask away. And what ever you do, if you havent already, please read the section about the Sankie Epidemic down there. I am refering to the section on Sankie 101. Most of the AI's in Punta Cana have a great animation staff, you will see them by the pool and out at
the beach. Participating in the evenings entertainment prior to the extra ciricular activities these casanovas are after when they are off the clock at about 10:30 or 11:00 pm. They are charming and suave, and can make you a victim of their "game" before you even realise it, or know what hit you. Please take my advise, and remember it is just my advise. Form your own opinion after reading, and posting questions as you wish on the Sankie section. It will save you much grief later on, and will make your trip more enjoyable. As you read the postings, remember they are not BS, they are true, as far fetched as they may seem. and all this information will be helpful, as it may have a bearing on certain situaitions that both you and your mom would probably prefer to avoid. Other wise, have a wonderful vacation. Its one of the most beautiful places I have ever traveled to.
If you want to go to a great water fall, have you ever been to Jamaica ? Dunns River Falls is spectacular. Cant really do alot of jumping, but where you can jump is amazing, and has a breath taking view from mid point up. There are also many wonderful water falls in USA, at Yellowston National Park, Northern Michigan, so many I cant even name them all, but I guarantee they are all spectactular. I have seen many 1st hand, and I am not sure I would want to jump off one, but they are amazing to look at. Enjoy, Enjoy ! Danceaway
