The Islands - Romantic Escapes in the Caribbean: Lovetripper Guide - page 201

For dive excursions, call Aqua Dive Las Terrenas ( 809-240-

6616); Golden Arrow Technical Diving ( 809-249-3176);

Neptune Dive Center ( 809-526-1473); or Rui Watersports

( 809-221-2290, extension 8120).

Shopping
The most unique purchase in the Dominican Republic is am-
ber, available at gift shops along the north coast. Amber prices
vary from US $3 for small earrings, to US $200 for a mosquito
encased in amber, to several hundred dollars for large, chunky
necklaces or amber set in gold. The color of the amber affects
the price as well. Generally the pale blonde amber is the least
expensive.

Spotting True Amber
Amber resembles plastic, so avoid buying
from street vendors and make sure to check
your item before purchasing. Amber pos-
sesses a slight electromagnetic charge, so
genuine amber, when rubbed on a piece of
cloth, should attract dust particles. Better
stores, such as Puerto Plata's Amber Mu-
seum Shop, (

809-586-2848) have an ul-
traviolet light for testing. Genuine pieces
will always glow under the light. Also, am-
ber will float in saltwater, whereas plastic
will sink.

Other popular souvenirs include Brugal rum (about US $4 per
liter), Dominican cigars, merengue cassette tapes, and larimar,
a blue stone similar to turquoise.

Nightlife

“Do you merengue?”

Heard in a bar it might not be an uncommon line. Or even on
the beach. But delivered in a jewelry store by a salesman as an