The Dominican Republic is the Carribean's largest tourist destination: warm, tropical weather, beautiful white sandy beaches, year-round golfing, deluxe resorts and all-inclusive restaurants and bars...the perfect get-away. But believe it or not, this is not how the natives live.
Let me introduce you to "the other side" of the Dominican: 42.2% of the people live below the poverty line. Education standards are quite low, and the literacy rate fluctuates in the low 80s(%). The DR is the 4th largest exporter of prostitutes (only behind Brazil, Thailand and the Philippines). And generally speaking, the native people tend to fall lower in economic priority than the tourism industry, which just so happens to be largely funded by American vacationers.
Now believe me when I say I am NOT anti-vacation. I love me some vaca. Still, I think Americans need to be awakened to the reality that this country is so much more than a hub of tourism. On the other side of the white sandy beaches, there are real people and real issues; real poverty and real beauty.
I will arrive this Saturday (the 26th of June) in Monte Cristi, to explore this "other side".
hi christina!
ReplyDeletei am so excited for you! I can't wait to read about your adventures on your blog! whoo!
I do feel strongly about vacationing in the DR and other poverty-stricken countries. My "Compassion" daughter lives in the DR and I just couldn't bring myself to be having a great time at a resort on one side of the island knowing what her life is like on the "other side". Great observation!
ReplyDeleteLoved reading this, Chrissy..and so did Keegs! The girls and I love following your blog....
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