I understand now why local friends kept saying they love vacationing in Samana. While Punta Cana on the easternmost tip of The Dominican Republic is better known by tourists for mammoth all-inclusive resorts, Samana on the north shore is more a Mom and Pop kind of place–pristine and private. The beach above, Caylo Levanto, is perfection– an isle off the main island in Samana Bay.
Griselda (left) whose family is from the DR arranged the weekend for Sana, Steve, and me. She said we wouldn’t believe how beautiful Samana province/peninsula is. She was right. Our van took off at 7 AM Saturday and by midmorning we were on a boat headed for paradise.
The afternoon I saddled up with my three amigos– all Jersey boys and girls–and we headed to Salto Limon. The ride was hot and rocky as the horses climbed up and down mountains through forests scented with coffee beans, coconuts, cacoa and pineapples.
The water was so cold it took our breath…but not as much as what we saw next…
Knowing all came up safely, I can now exhale looking at these photos, relax and relate. The last 2+ years have felt like diving headfirst–or on less scary or exciting days–plunging feetfirst into a life far from my comfort zone. I knew it was something I needed to do and though I’ve been lonely at times, God has never left me alone. I’ve felt my life is a cliffhanger for awhile now because I am not sure what’s next. But one thing is for sure. Wherever I land after this adventure, I’ll never forget these moments that have left me feeling very, very alive.
Beautiful, never knew you were a dare devil! Did you really jump off that cliff?
No way! I don’t like heights. lol See the Part 2 I just posted. I hurt my knee just trying to get a photo. 🙂
Wow, that waterfall looks incredible! I’ve always thought of Samana as a beach destination but the rainforest looks worth exploring too. Was it super sweltering on those horses though?
Samana is also the place to watch whales from January till March!
And though the ride to the waterfall is hot, there’s shade along the way and the coldest water on the island to jump into pooled beneath.
What a beautiful place! It made me nervous just looking at the photos of them jumping!
Hi Suzanne–I was going through old posts and found your comment. So sorry I missed it and never replied! Yes, I was nervous for them!