Jeff and Joanne's trip to the Dominican Republic, January 2004

Manati Park

We caught a free bus ride from the Ocean H-10 resort to MANATI PARK, and spent the day there. It is a zoo & animal park, with trained dolphins and sea lions, as well as tropical birds, reptiles, and a native Taino museum/display. Entrance fee was $10 US each, and I just HAD to swim with the dolphins which was $75 US. Upon arrival at the park, we were greeted by 2 Dominican girls and posed for photos.

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Our entrance to Manati Park, greeted by local DR girls.

Jeff holding a monkey at Manati Park.

Eeeeek! Actually, it wasn't that bad. Joanne holding a large snake at Manati Park.

Jeff and Steven, an employee at Manati Park. Steven talked with us for nearly an hour about life in the Dominican Republic. He and his family are very religious (as are most of the locals) and Steven's wage is $50 US per month. Rent is $80 per month, and he lives with his mother.

Most of the iguanas were enclosed... this guy seemed to have been an escapee!

Inside the main building at Manati Park.

After my cold shower! We had to wash off, then dip our hands and feet in iodine for the dolphins' protection.

Swimming with dolphins at Manati Park.

Joanne hanging onto the dolphin's flippers as it swam backwards across the pool!

Joanne and dolphins posing for a photo.

Joanne and Jeff at Manati Park, posing with a gorgeous Scarlett Macaw.

Joanne getting a dolphin kiss!

OUR SAONA ISLAND TOUR

DOWNTOWN HIGUEY

BAVARO BEACH BOXER

LINKS

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