Crystal's "Vacation"

So I have to say visiting the Dominican Republic was more of an ‘experience’ than a vacation, as Joan’s dad put it. I had no idea just how simple Joan was living. I knew she didn’t have much but I didn’t foresee having no shower or refrigerator. She never complains about any of these things when we chat on the phone, which is pretty often. I never had the desire to stay in resort land but I guess I wasn’t as tough as I thought. I have to say I missed the luxuries of home. Thinking back on it I think if I did some research on the country I would have been more mentally prepared.

Another reason it was tough was because of the language barrier. I had to depend on Joan for all of my communication. She is pretty fluent now, and doesn’t mind, but it definitely feels strange to depend on someone else to speak. Even though I know a little Spanish I feel intimidated to speak it even though everyone is graciously friendly. It was astonishing just how friendly people were. Joan knows everyone and they all love her. We had three meals at neighbors’ houses, and each time they always served the guest first. They have so little yet they want to make sure you have the most. Back home it is not unusual to be kind to guests, but they truly go out of their way to satisfy you. You can tell how much Joan has adapted and truly become part of the community.

It was difficult too because I am in school all year so I do not get to take many vacations. When I do go on vacation I am ready to splurge, since I rarely do. Joan was not on vacation and was working all week, and makes pretty much enough money to survive, so we weren’t exactly on the same page as far as spending and doing activities. And she never complains about this! I am glad now though because I truly don’t have the money to splurge either. I always knew she was the right type of person for the Peace Corps; she truly always looks out for everyone. That’s why she’s My Girl Joan. One of my favorite things was the food because it was mostly fried and bland (which I love). I also love the music and dancing. I cannot believe how strong the sun was there! I knew it was much closer to the equator but I could not imagine that you really need to shade yourself with an umbrella during the day. I was skeptical at first but when I didn’t use the umbrella I got a headache within twenty minutes. This is not an exaggeration.

Overall the trip was more valuable than I realized during the week. I became more grateful for all that I have. Most people in the U.S. will have more money than the people in the Dominican Republic will think about having or needing. It reminded me of how many freedoms we do have in this country. It is extremely difficult for anyone in the Dominican Republic to get a visa to travel to any other country, even for a week stay visiting a relative. Even if families were granted a visa it would be very difficult to afford the expense, especially since a meal for a family in an inexpensive restaurant would be cumbersome considering the exchange rate. We can pretty much travel to any country we want. I would never even think about the fact that not everyone has this freedom. I am also more mindful of how hard it is for immigrants to adapt to a new culture. It was difficult for me, and I was only staying there for one week. One of the most amazing things about traveling is how much you can learn and how your perspective changes over time. When you travel it changes you and keeps on changing you even after you have gone back home. You might not even realize it until years later. It is pretty amazing.

Joan's Note: We also went to a beautiful beach: