Los Charcos

Yesterday was by far one of my favorite days yet! After class, our group traveled to the city of Puerto Plata to spend the day at "Los Charcos," or the 27 lagoons of the Damajuaga River...and this time it wasn't closed! Surrounded by a mountain range, called Cordillera Central, the lagoons and waterfalls were absolutely magnificent. After hiking with our helmets and lifejackets for a good 10 dominican minutes (meaning 30), each of us had the opportunity to climb up, slide down, and jump off of 7 waterfalls and into the freshwater lagoons. I have never experienced anything like it.

Los Charcos

Today, before our first class, we toured a a cathedral called Santiago Catedral Apóstol (St. James the Apostle). This was the site of the first church in Santiago, built in 1556. This newly renovated cathedral (due to two earthquakes) is a national monument located in Santiago de los Caballeros.

After class, we went to Centro León once again, to listen to a lecture (in Spanish) about Dominican art, including both classical and modern paintings. The Powerpoint lecture lasted about two and half hours, and to be honest I had some trouble keeping my eyes open. I wasn't the only one!

Tomorrow my day will be free from excursions, and I'll have the afternoon to study for our two midterms on Thursday. This month is flying by!