Luperon - Dominican Republic - Hispanola We spent one week in the quiet, natural hurricane hole bay of Luperon along with approximately 70 other boats. We anchored beside Bruce Van Sant's trawler (author of "A Gentleman's Guide to Passages South"). Mr. Van Sant was available for discussion most evenings at the nearby Puerto Blanco marina restaurant/bar. Regretfully, our views of the D.R. were limited to the village of Luperon, as well as the gorgeous mountain landscape we saw from the water as we sailed along it's north and east coast. We were absolutely awed by the natural beauty of the D.R. Five mountain ranges cross this incredibly lush, green island. While in Luperon we left our laundry in town to be done. When we returned later in the day, we were surprised to see it hanging to dry on the fences along the street (Barry's Canadian flag boxers and all). 6 loads - washed, dryed and folded - 400 pesos (approximately $l3.00 Canadian) Our costs to enter the Dominican Republic were $3l.00 U.S. to customs, $l0.00 U.S. plus 1 beer to the Agriculture minister when he came aboard to inspect and $20.00 U.S. for a tourist card (walk in town tax) in Luperon. In town we saw goats, chickens, donkeys and dogs. The very friendly and laid back locals could be seen relaxing in chairs or playing dominoes in the doorways of their homes. Inside their open doors we could see the tiny living area that housed their couches, dining sets and t.v.s. During the early afternoon everything was closed for siesta but at night the whole town came to life with loud music, lights and meringay(sp?) dance. Fresh, delicious local fruit was in abundance - pineapple, bananas, papaya and melons. Motorcycles were a popular means of travel. The semi-precious, Robin's egg blue stone, Larimar, that is unique to the D.R. was available for sale in many different forms.