First off, I feel incredibly lucky that I’ve been able to spend my birthday in some pretty epic places over the years – climbing volcanos in Costs Rica, experiencing the Olympics in Brazil, beach hopping along Spain’s southern coast and enjoying a vineyard tour in the Italian Riviera.
This year, I wanted to slow things down a bit and go somewhere to unwind. No pressure to sightsee or squeeze in a bunch of activities. This year, I just wanted to enjoy a relaxing beach getaway with my Russian.
So, I’m spending my birthday in the Dominican Republic and I could not be more excited! We’re planning to enjoy three and a half days at an all-inclusive resort in paradise where the hardest decision we’ll have to make will be which restaurant to try for dinner.
The Dominican Republic has also received some negative press in recent months regarding American visitors falling ill and even dying. Tourism makes up a significant percentage of the DR’s economy, so these reports put a serious dent in the country’s main revenue stream.
This is another reason I wanted to visit. According to the U.S. State Department, “There has been no evidence of foul play and no sign that the deaths are connected.” And despite the jarring headlines, there has not been an increase in the reported deaths of American tourist in the Dominican Republic.
The bottom line is it’s safe! And while it’s always prudent to use caution while traveling, I also think it’s important to continue to visit and support countries and communities rather than allow fear to dictate your decisions.
So, off we go to enjoy a few days in paradise! I can’t wait to share some of our trip with you over on the ‘gram!
Have you traveled to the Dominican Republic before? What was your experience like? If you have been, is it somewhere you’d be interested in visiting?!
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