Sosua

   Yesterday, we rented a car and set out to see the local beach. A very simple process, we called this guy, Nino, who showed up in front of the bar, after removing his 2 small sons turned his family car over to us for the day.  Total cost $1500 pesos ($36 dollars).

 Claude from Barn Owl was chosen as the designated driver, as he knew the way, having been here many years ago. We started out early so that we would be through the traffic of Puerto Plata, to arrive at the beach, on the east side of the city. The morning was overcast, but not too warm; a great day to travel. Most nights it has rained lightly, but clears up when the sun rises. Today the dark clouds sat over the mountains, a first since we arrived.

  German Jewish refugees from the Nazis founded this touristy town, popular for its lovely beaches, dive sites and reefs. The dictator of the era gained a favour with the U.S by letting them in at a time when the U.S did not permit their entrance. The immigrants started sausage and dairy production, and established a yogurt tradition on the island. Today the town has a lively nightlife, an artist community, with many immigrants from both Germany and Quebec.