Puerto Plata (and the whole of the Dominican Republic) - Yup, Christmas is on the way! For those of you here on vacation already, and have been out and about on some of our excursions, you may have noticed many a street stall riddled with apples, grapes, nuts and all sorts of goodies. For those of you who have booked to come on vacation here through December, you are going to be a part of the Dominican traditions and will notice that many a hotel will pull out all the stops to decorate their hotel and be the "best" in the zone!As is the norm here in the Dominican Republic, the locals like to start preparing for Christmas at the end of October / early November.
Even though the global and local economies are having a hard time of it at the moment, the locals try and put on a brave face and try and make the most of the festive season.
One of the main characteristics of Xmas here is the "Cerdo Asado" or spit roast pork, which can be purchased on many a street corner throughout the year...moreso at Christmas. With the price of this meat ever increasing (RD$190lb) Dominicans are turning to the "other white meat" chicken, as it is cheaper. With this in mind, many a Dominican family will be doing their utmost to celebrate "Noche Buena" (24 Dec) as best they can.
We will be placing a "Christmas Special" on the site around early December with everything you need to know about local customs and traditions...so watch this space...
