For the first time ever, I flew to Santo Domingo a few days early to visit Santo Domingo and practice Spanish with the Sisters at El Carmelo. Thought I’d share those days as well.
On my first day in Santo Domingo, I visited a shipwreck museum… not what I was aiming for, (still have a way to go with Spanish 🤣), but it was where the Uber driver dropped me off. I quickly found it super interesting. We all know about global trade routes in the 16th and 17th centuries, but the reasons, the technology, and the tragedies just blow my mind.
Fun fact: The Santa Maria, one of Christopher Columbus’ ships, crashed on the north shore of the island of Hispaniola (tourist area). And the ship crew used the ship remains to build the first fort “Christmas Fort” or “La Navidad”. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Navidad The Taino leveled it later.
Trade and smuggling – note the land passage from Veracruz, Mexico to the Pacific Ocean, for trade with China. Smuggling became more lucrative than above-the-board trading because authorities exploited their monopolies and kept raising taxes.
After a macadamia/chocolate gelato …
I visited the famous first church in the western hemisphere – the audio tour was informative and left me with more questions.
Some of the Chapels: A modern nativity scene, (I can’t remember), a picture of Alta Gracia which is different than what we usually see, the crypt of the governor and bishop of the Santo Domingo, designed and built by Medici, last is Our Lady of Pain.
The Sisters have been wonderful as usual. the food – especially the chicken, fruit, and coffee are delicious. I do love food that I don’t have to plan, shop for, and cook 😋.
At breakfast this morning I asked whether Azua has had any problems because of Haiti. They all said no, the border is well-guarded.
I’ve been getting and Santo Domingo very really thanks to Uber. Two of the three drivers are also earnest Duolingo learners, so that’s been fun chit chat.
We’re excited to see everyone Saturday!!
Campamento 2026 