Docked in La Romana
View from our cabin
We finally got to dock at a Caribbean island on Day 4 of our cruise. And it was one of the places we have never been: the Dominican Republic. Specifically, La Romana, a port on the southeast corner of the island and the third-largest city in the DR.
We had been told not to expect too much – no shopping, no scenic vistas, no beautiful beaches – so we weren’t disappointed when we docked in an industrial area, across the channel from a very old merchant ship and with a nice view of a factory with black smoke billowing from the stacks. But the sun was shining and it was warm, so we were eager to explore.
Most of the people who disembarked at La Romana had booked a Carnival-sponsored excursion. There were excursions to Altos de Chavon, a replica medieval Italian village, or a remote beach. Having no interest in either replica villages or long bus rides, we took a bus into beautiful(?) downtown La Romana. There was a large native crafts bazaar there. We bought some souvenirs from some very aggressive vendors, wandered a few blocks in an unsuccessful attempt to find a realtor, just to see what kind of property was available, then returned to the ship.
We won’t be returning to La Romana anytime soon. The best thing about La Romana? It’s not as crappy as Belize City.
Jett had a good night at the casino, winning over $150. I was also up for a while, but outstayed my welcome, finishing down about $70. But a net win for the night. Probably our first win ever on a cruise ship. We also stayed awake past 3am – another cruise first.
Jett with local dog
Crafts bazaar
Interesting church
Luis Tiant
Nathan’s hot dogs at the dock