Amber Cove, Dominican Republic

Wednesday January 30,

Tucked on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, Amber Cove, named for the translucent gemstone found on its shores, sits just seven miles from the town Puerto Plata, a cinematic locale used as the backdrop for the first Jurassic Park film. Just steps from the dock take in the sparkling beach, which offers a plethora of water activities, and the serene, natural beauty from the comfort of a private bungalow. Or venture off the property to take to the high seas on a luxury catamaran snorkeling expedition or explore the 450-year-old San Felipe Fortress. For high-flying adventure, swing through the trees on a zip line or ride a cable car 2,500 feet to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres for a look at its massive statue of Christ the Redeemer. And for those with a forward-thinking approach to social activism, delve into the culture and traditions of the friendly Dominican people while giving back to the community and making an impact on their lives. The experience will leave you feeling as warm as the glow from the amber sun

We have booked a Princess tour for this port.
It is entitled, Eat Drink Dance
Sounds great
Catch the spirit of the Dominican Republic with this enriching and immersive experience. From Amber Cove you'll travel to Puerto Plata, acclaimed as the first settlement in the Americas. Take in the sights from your comfortable seat as the driver winds his way around the city and along the scenic Malecon. Stops at the San Felipe Fortress and the Plaza Independencia offer great photo opportunities. Next, you'll travel to the town of El Cupey, the site of Las Catalinas ranch where a friendly staff will greet you with a rum punch or fruit punch. Then, learn to make "sancocho," the national dish and a "mamajuana" cocktail. After indulging in your culinary creations, you'll get the chance to work off your delicious meal with a dance lesson. Admire your teachers' colorful folkloric costumes as they perform the merengue. Then, get your heart pumping as you join in the festivities!

Tour Overview

WHAT YOU VISIT
Puerto Plata
Eat, drink and dance during this lively excursion that begins with a sightseeing tour of Puerto Plata. Discovered by Christopher Columbus in the 1490s, the city prides itself on its history, architecture and laid-back attitude. Sit back and relax as your driver makes his way around the city and along the Malecón, a beautiful one mile promenade that hugs the Atlantic Ocean and its golden-sand beaches.

Las Catalinas Ranch
Tucked near the town of El Cupe, the ranch is the perfect setting to discover the Dominican culture and cuisine. After learning how to make a specialty dish and drink, colorfully dressed folkloric dancers will teach you the steps to the spirited dance known as the "merengue." Feel the rhythms as you jump to your feet and join in the fun!

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Located at the center of Puerto Plata's historic square, the sprawling Plaza Independencia showcases the city's former status as a wealthy sugar and cocoa exporter with lovely Victorian mansions in bright Caribbean colors while a stop at the 16th century San Felipe Fortress conjures up images of Spanish soldiers on the lookout for pirates.

LUNCH
Once you arrive at Las Catalinas, you'll be treated to rum punch or fruit punch while serenaded by lively music. Then, you'll be instructed in making "sancocho," a traditional meal full of vegetables and plantains. After lunch, enjoy a refreshing tropical fruit dessert accompanied by a cup of Dominican coffee. Then, you'll learn how to prepare the most popular beverage in the Dominican Republic known as "mamajuana," which is made with rum, red wine, honey, herbs and tree bark.

WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Among the sights you'll see in Puerto Plata includes its colorful city center full of historic buildings, cultural museums, and plenty of restaurants and shopping.