The GINGER: Diary

Greetings,

Just a week ago, I embarked on a journey to the enigmatic southwestern realm of the Dominican Republic, known as Barahona, or ‘El Sur Profundo.’ The quest for remote and uncharted territories led me to this hidden gem, where isolation reveals its treasures. So, allow me to extend a warm “Welcome to Barahona!”

The choice to explore this location was driven by an unquenchable thirst for adventure and discovery. Barahona, situated roughly four hours away from the bustling capital, Santo Domingo, unveiled itself to us as we arrived under the veil of nightfall. We had strategically timed our journey to ensure an entire day for exploration and other planned activities. What greeted us was a transformative environment, where the very air and water seemed to have undergone a metamorphosis. Barahona boasts the most biodiverse reserves and parks in the country. Here, freshwater cascades have morphed into natural recreational swimming havens, and coffee plantations cultivate some of the Dominican Republic’s finest brews. It’s also a well-known haven for surfers, with its enticing array of beaches that beckon athletes in pursuit of the perfect break.

One of the most renowned surf spots in Barahona is Bahoruco Beach. This stunning beach in the La Cienaga province is famous for its mesmerizing sunsets and pristine sands. The waters here offer excellent conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers. The rolling waves create the perfect setting for surfing, making it an attractive spot for both experienced surfers and beginners wishing to test the waters of the surfing realm.

Surrounded by lush natural beauty, Bahoruco Beach is more than just a surf destination; it’s a place to reconnect with nature and relax on the secluded shores of the Caribbean. There’s something special about catching the waves and then unwinding on this untouched coastline. It’s a place that should be on every surfer’s bucket list.

Our stay at ‘Casa del Mar’ was hosted by a warm and welcoming Dominican family. Incidentally, if you study the map, you’ll note that nearly all the accommodations in Barahona are strategically nestled along the Caribbean coast, much like ours.

The break of dawn enveloped us in the symphony of nature, surrounded by banana groves, exotic fruits, a friendly and endearing canine companion, and the inviting El Quemaito Beach, just a stone’s throw away.

On our maiden day, we set out to explore the nearby coastal wonders. Our journey led us to Bahoruco Beach, located in La Cienaga, in the province of Barahona.

This coastal haven is nothing short of paradise on Earth. Bahoruco Beach has gained renown for its mesmerizing sunsets, pristine white sands, and turquoise waters that mirror the hues of larimar, an exceptionally rare stone known for its distinct blend of blues and whites. Larimar is a true rarity, found only in the Bahoruco region of the Dominican Republic.

While we didn’t venture to the Larimar mines, I’ve heard that guided tours provide a unique opportunity to delve into the world of these precious stones. These excursions even offer the chance to interact with the miners and perhaps unearth your very own piece of Larimar.

The following day, we decided to explore the lush, mountainous landscapes and the verdant forests that adorn this magical domain. To get there, we hopped on a local vehicle from the main street, aptly referred to as ‘guagua,’ and embarked on our adventure.

Amidst nature’s grandeur, we were treated to awe-inspiring vistas. Upon reaching the Bahoruco mountain, a half-hour hike through the thriving rainforest unveiled Casa Bonita tropical lodge, perched majestically atop a hill that overlooks the Caribbean Sea. The view was absolutely unforgettable.

During our three-day sojourn in Barahona, I uncovered not just peace but irrefutable proof that paradise is indeed real. One thing became abundantly clear: the Dominican Republic holds within its borders a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be unearthed.

PS: One thing is certain, Dominican Republic has it all!

Hugs,

S