surfing

Tamas Iklodi: Sanoa Island, Dominican Republic; 2005

The Caribbean, she is a harsh mistress. All of the islands in the Greater and Lesser Antilles share at least some aspect towards the North Atlantic and therefore are exposed to any passing fronts that generate of the East American Coast and transit the North Atlantic. These fronts often pass a good way to the north and swell decay can be a problem.

Regular windswell is a constant on the east coast of all of the island groups and hence there is almost always something to keep you occupied and off the rum for a few hours. too much wind can be a bad thing though and onshore days are very common, no matter how early in the morning you manage to peel yourself out of your cot and stumble down to the beach.

The third source of swell in the region are from passing hurricanes. Some of the strongest storm ever recorded on the planet file through here regularly. Technically the season spans June to November with early September being the peak. The ideal scenario is for the hurricane mass to pass clear of any inhabited areas and sit well offshore in the deep Carribean for a few days prior to disipating. The result is typically 3-5 days of western swell that lights up the hidden western points and reefs of the Caribbean. The persistant NE/E trade winds will gently fan these breaks all day long. It is then that some of the rarer points and breaks of The Dominican Republic come to life. Surf exploration doesent get any better than this.

what to pack

Jorge Barrios: Wax crayons; 18 October 2007

Pack light when travelling to DR. There's no need to bring your expensive belongings as the country on the whole, is very laid back and casual. Going to a sunny country, which is near Ecvator, make sure you take a good sunscreen (SPF 30+); a good insect repellent wouldn't hurt much either. Bring on the medicines you are used to take. Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, hat and natural fabrics (such as cotton or linen) clothes will be useful as well. Don't forget a backpack, that might be usefull if your planning to travel around or sail.

You won't regret swimming and snorkelling gear! For those traveling from Continental Europe, the energy is different in Dominican Republic (110v), don't forget converter as well.

It is a good idea to bring some presents for locals: coloring books and crayons, little toys and nick-nacks (like hairclips, bouncy balls, etc.) for children you might meet. The maids make hardly any cash, so don't forget to tip the hardworking souls. Bring US dollars, anyone takes them easily.