Monday, Monday

Overlooking colonial zone @ 7:34am (local time)

The weather is overcast, with bouts of drizzle. Hardly the weather one would expect in the tropics. But, you have to have the rain so that you can really appreciate the sun. Looks to be some type of tropical depression hovering about. Today is a holiday. Three Kings Day is usually celebrated on the 6th of January. But in the Dominican Republic if a holiday falls during mid-week they move it to a Monday or Friday to make for a long weekend. Now if only the weather had cooperated.

Looking for a House in Santo Domingo?

What about this 11,000 square foot, 16th century mansion. Located in the heart of the Colonial Zone, it has 11 bedrooms, 6 baths and 2 outdoor patios. Painstakingly restored to its original splendor, and with many of the original details. The asking price is 1.7 million (dollars). But, in this weakened economy, I bet they would be ready to negotiate.

Gran Hotel Aida

Old hotel that has been revamped, Gran Hotel Aida. Located on Espaillat, with its entrance right off El Conde. Rates are $55 - $65 per night. Call 809.685.7692 for more information.

Colonial Zone @ 6:24 AM

Curfew Changing?

Could it be?

Maybe.

A pilot program is now in effect in Cabarete to allow businesses that sell alcohol to close at 1am during the week, and 3am on weekends. If it is successful then the program will be implemented in other areas of the country.

We'll see ...

Update (8/9/07): Now, I don't want to get to hopeful, but this is the brightest news I've seen about the curfew. I don't think it has to be lifted everywhere, but it just makes economic sense to lift it where significant tourists gather. And in Santo Domingo, that would be the Colonial Zone. Huge amounts of Dominicans party in the Zone, too.

Surveillance cameras for tourism areas?
Tourism Minister Felix Jimenez has called for the installation of surveillance cameras in parts of Santo Domingo’s Colonial City, the Malecon seafront avenue and tourist areas in Puerto Plata, Sosua, Cabarete, Las Terrenas, Las Galeras, Juan Dolio and Punta Cana. He said that surveillance cameras would enhance security in these areas, and then the time limits for the sale of alcoholic beverages could be lifted. He proposed that the Ministry would pay for half of the cost, and local businesses would cover the other half. Speaking during an American Chamber of Commerce luncheon in Puerto Plata, he said that if tourists want to drink all night long, they should be allowed to do so. (Source: DR1 Travel News)

Happy Easter/Semana Santa

Haven't had Internet for almost a week, and I still don't have Vonage. Some glitch with the phone company, Claro/Codetel. No longer is it called Verizon.

Easter Week in the Dominican Republic is known as Semana Santa. This holiday, in my estimation, is bigger than Christmas here. During this week the beach and resorts are packed full of Dominicans taking a break from everything. Most businesses (including the neighborhood Colmado) are closed today. The clubs/bars can open at Midnight or later. Will be very interesting to see if anyone is out this evening. Aside from the march to the church, it has been very quiet around here.

Hillary & Bill Clinton are vacationing in Punta Cana, at the luxury villa of Oscar de la Renta. The Clintons have been vacationing in the DR since 1999. I guess after all that running around trying to be President, it can take its toll on you. Anyway, we love having Hillary (and Bill!) here. If you are ever in Punta Cana, check out the resort they stay at. Just lovely.

Al Horford, who plays on the University of Florida Gators Basketball Team, is a Dominican. They recently won the NCAA Basketball Championship. Also on the team is Joakim Noah, who is the son of Yannick Noah, former Tennis Champion.

L.P. and G.C. came down and brought tons of toys, clothes and most importantly, bought a lot of food to donate to La Casa Rosada.

There is a new Dominican movie coming out called Yuniol. Checkout a clip here.

First Dominican Student Conference is taking place soon at Yale University. Click here for more information.

Olympic hurdler, Felix Sanchez, is gearing up for the Summer Season of Track and Field.

Hatian-Dominican activist, Sonia Pierre, is in jeopardy of having her Dominican citizenship revoked.

Internet Gambling guru arrested at hotel in Santo Domingo.

Lastly, a warning to those who have an apartment here in the DR that they rent out. Recently, some friends of mine who have an apartment in the Colonial Zone rented out their apt. in a very nice condominium. The person, who was recommended by mutual friends, was a guest from hell. He was supposed to be in the apt. by himself, he ended up having 2 additional people there. They upset the building having unlimited guys stopping by at all hours. The apartment was destroyed. From items broken, to the couch being written on. To top it off, he left and didn't pay anything. The moral to this story? Get a deposit, and make sure you have someone watching your place, and if all else fails, throw their asses out onto the street!

Que lo que?

Okay, what's been going on lately?

Well, let's see ...

Arena is still closed. I have spoken with the manager, Kelvin, and he confirmed that the place was closed after the police came in and searched the place. They found 2 people who were 17 years-old, and just like that, CLOSED. They are trying to fight it, but Kelvin says that Arena will probably be closed for at least 6 months. This story is amazing, because places are closed here all the time for all types of infractions. There was even a club some months back where a patron was killed. It wasn't closed for 6 months, though. I just think the owners don't have the stomach to keep putting up with all the drama. I wish Kelvin the best. He is such a nice guy.

CHA is still open and still packing the crowds in. Jay-Dee's is still going strong, but it is hit and miss on some nights. Right now, there is a feeling of blah in the gay club scene here in Santo Domingo. Hopefully it will all change for the better, and real soon! I'm hearing about some after-hours places, but of course I can't put their business out there.

I have also been hearing about this new intimate place in the Colonial Zone, where some Gays are congregating. It is called Esedeku. It is NOT a Gay place, but from all I have been told, it is a nice place to have a drink. Why not check it out on your next visit?

I wrote about the future Dominican Supermodel, Deilín Sanz, a couple of entries back. What I forgot to put in is the link to the new magazine where he is the cover model, Dominican Life Magazine. Here's wishing them much success!

And from Dominican Life Magazine, I found out about a restaurant in Manhattan, called A Dominican Thing. It is located in the heart of the Chelsea, and was started by 2 Dominican women. They were even written up in the NY Times.

Here is are some other links of interest:

DR New Conduit for Cocaine?

Fertility Clinic Debacle

Amnesty International Report on DR & Haitian Migrants

Dominican psychiatrist in Canada Accused of Unspeakable Acts

Finally, this is not related to the DR, but to the human race. I had in passing heard about the little boy who was missing from Brunswick, GA., Christoper Barrios, Jr. I then heard about how he was found dead. More disturbing was how he died. I just can't understand how anyone could treat any human being like this, let alone an innocent 6 year-old child. Just when you think you have heard and seen it all, you hear about something like this. Just horrible.

Rest in peace, Christopher Barrios, Jr.

Hostal La Colonia

Across the street from the Hodelpa Caribe Colonial is a new place to stay, called the Hostal La Colonia. Running it is a former Caribe Colonial employee, Felipe. Completely new and very nice it has rooms starting at $50 per night. All the comforts like air-conditioning, hot water, security, and yes, no problems with having visitors.

Check them out.

A while ago I was complaining about the weather. I'm sorry. After talking with folks in the States I can see it is not all that bad here. Actually, the last couple of days would classify as spectacular. Sunny, breezy, with NO humidity. Just lovely!

I have a British gentleman staying with me, and we have just been having some great fun. I have been to the beach this week (twice!) and to some great restaurants. Today I went and got the full tour of the Hilton Hotel. It is really quite nice. I had just been in the lobby previously, but this time I toured the facilities and was really quite impressed. The rooms are to die for, and it is really quiet. With its pool, 24-hour room service, 24-hour gym, oh, and the views from practically every room are breathtaking. And walking around the place I found out I know a couple of people working there. Small world.

If you are looking for a really great restaurant in the Colonial Zone, you must try the restaurant in the Sofitel Nicholas de Ovando, La Residence. It is by far the best restaurant that I have eaten at in the Dominican Republic. I have eaten there twice this week and both times the food and service were impeccable. If you are looking for fine French cuisine in a beautiful and elegant setting I guarantee you won't be disappointed. Oh yeah, it ain't a bad hotel either.

Starting January 23, 2007, all travellers returning from Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, will need a valid passport to reenter the United States. No more birth certificate or drivers license.

Chachita Rubio's new club is tentatively scheduled to open on Februay 2, 2007. I will pass information on as it becomes available.

Well, that's all that I can think of right now. Checkout the pictures above from the day at the beach in Guayacanes, along with some other stuff.

As ever,
The Monaga Blogger

Hola

The weather has rainy and cool for the last 10 days or so. This is supposed to be the dry season. Peaks of sun every now and again. But, very blah, to be sure.

I was in Ocho Puertas (8 Doors) the other evening, and spoke with the owner, Dana. He informed me that he would be closing the doors for good on Monday, January 15, 2007. He said that with the curfew, along with the current business climate, it just isn't feasible to continue. It was very sad to hear. If you have been to the bar, then you know just how beautiful and great a space it is. Let's hope that someone opens up something else soon, or maybe someone else can takeover the Ocho Puertas space. Anyway, good luck to Dana.

Washington, D.C.'s, own Mario Sessions, will be throwing his annual birthday party in Santo Domingo, the weekend of March 9, 2007. For more information on the festivities to www.santodomingodirect.com.

There were some murmurs about a "gay wedding" that took place in Santo Domingo, during the Christmas holidays. Being an eternal skeptic, I didn't pay it much attention. Then I run into someone I know that works at the Hilton Hotel, and he asks me did I hear about the wedding. Still didn't think much about it. Then I get an email, and find out it is all true. It was a commitment ceremony, that by all accounts was done in a elegant, grand style. No expense was spared and it has gotten many of the locals who witnessed it talking. I have been talking with one of the participants to see if he will allow me to show some of the photos and share their story. Some of the local media have gotten wind of the affair, and want to do a story themselves. He knows that more than likely it will be held up to ridicule and that is the last thing he (or I) wants. I have told him that I will give him total control over what is written, and what pictures are shown. Also, no names have to be divulged. But, I would understand if he would prefer to not publicize it. We'll see ...

While sitting here writing this blog entry, I hear all this commotion outside in the street. When I open the door to see what is going on, I notice that everyone is staring at a woman on the corner is naked. The word spread like wildfire, and people are starting to come from everywhere. It is obvious (I think) that she is mentally unbalanced. But, then aren't we all, sometimes.

Don't forget, if you are in Santo Domingo, this week to stop by Jay-Dee's on Thursday, January 18, 2007. Eddie and Samuel will be celebrating their 6th anniversary together. Last year, I wrote about their 5th-year celebration at Bar Friends.

I mentioned in a couple of posts ago that I wanted to see Dreamgirls desperately. And thanks to Chris from D.C., I have! Let me just say the power of the internet is amazing. Then I find out that they are going to be showing it here in the next couple of weeks. Posters are starting to appear. Can't wait, because there is nothing like seeing a great musical on the big screen.

For those in NYC, or who will be visiting, checkout the musical In the Heights. Go to the website for more information.

I think that is it.

Until soon,
Monaga Blogger

Happy Birthday!

This past Sunday was my 42nd birthday. I started celebrating on Friday night. Friday night seemed like there was electricity in the air. It was a payday, and most people got their extra holiday pay, which is mandated by the government. Started out at Jay-Dee's and then went to Arena, where they had a really nice show. Saturday night I went to Jay-Dee's to see the strippers, it was great! Sunday, a friend with a beautiful apartment in the Colonial Zone, Mark, threw a little dinner party at his place. The menu was simple and elegant, Spiced Meat Cornmeal & Cheddar Cobbler, Ambrosia, and a fresh green salad. For dessert there was a beautiful chocolate cake with vanilla frosting and dulce de leche filling, along with some French Vanilla ice cream. Everyone was greeted with Peppermint Vodka Martinis. Just yummy!! No one wanted their photos on the blog (except for David), so I just took some photos of the food and decor.

Last night, Joan Guzman, the WBO World lightweight champion fought against Antonio Davis last night @ the Sports Palace. As expected, Joan won. It seemed like the whole country was watching and cheering Joan on to victory. Oscar de la Hoya was at the fight looking very dapper. Tonight, Shakira is at the Sports Palace gyrating and doing her thing. The weather is in the 70's and there is NO humidity, so it is a great night for a concert.

I received an email about a party that is taking place this weekend on the 22nd of December. It is a private party where you need to RSVP to attend. This is the kind of party where there will be a more refined Gay Dominican. So, if you want to attend, leave the "boyfriend" at home. Know what I mean? (copy of the flyer below)

Okay, I know many of you are probably tired of hearing about Dreamgirls, BUT I'M NOT! I don't know when, if ever, they are going to show it here in the DR, but I have got to see this movie. Anyone coming down and you just happen to have a "copy" of the movie, CALL ME!

Okay, more later.
Monaga Blogger

Last Night @ Jay-Dee's

ACP Festival Closing Night Fashion Show

I promised to get you the video from the fashion show that was the culmination of a week's worth of cultural activities on the Plaza Espana in the Colonial Zone.

Enjoy!

What's Up?

I haven't written anything in a while, so I thought I would give an update as to what is going on.

Not much really happening here right now. It has been kinda dead, with regard to the nightlife scene. If Rouge is still open (I have not confirmed this) then it is barely hanging on. Last weekend I heard there were less than 20 people in the club. I think that is a shame, as they opened with such big fanfare and tried to bring something different to the club-going public. I like Chachita Rubio a lot, so I hope they are able to turn things around. Arena is the club of the moment. The last couple of weekends have seen very large crowds there. Why? Because they are actively going after the "chilren." Reduced admission, drink specials, shows, strippers, etc.

From what I understand, starting next Saturday, November 4, 2006, Jay-Dee's is going to be featuring the hottest dancers in the Dominican Republic. Can't wait!!!! This weekend there will be many Halloween festivities going on. Jay-Dee's is having a costume contest, along with Arena. This weekend is also the official grand-opening of Ocho Puertas. So there should be something for everyone. Bar Friends is still open, too, though I have not heard of anything special going on this weekend.

There have been two smaller places that have opened and I have heard that they are predominantly Lesbian hangouts. They are right down the street from Arena, but I haven't been able to get accurate information about what is going on. I know a couple of people who have been, who are not Lesbians. I will have to find out exactly what is going on and report back to you.

I have recently talked to several people who come down here often, and stay for long periods of time. They talked about there is something missing, and it has nothing to do with the curfew. I thought it was striking that I talked with everyone separately, and they had the same take on things. They thought that the nightlife was getting boring. These folks are not the Arena crowd and much prefer the Friends to Jay-Dee's axis. Very, very rarely do they venture out of the Colonial Zone, and I think that could also be a part of the problem. I agree, things have definitely changed, but then there hadn't been that many tourists here.

On the other hand, there are other Americans who are here. Some staying for long periods of time, who are having the times of their lives. They have been scuba diving, whitewater rafting, partying in the clubs outside of the Colonial Zone, taking Spanish classes and hitting the beach every chance they get. So, who do you believe? Both. I have said this before, but I think your time here will depend on what you are looking for and what you are willing to do to make your vacation fun. If you come strictly to hang around the Conde and buggarones, then yes, it gets old VERY quickly. It is what you make it.

The other day the Minister of Tourism was on television, and he confirmed that the curfew was going to be lifted in the tourist areas (Colonial Zone, Puerto Plata/Cabarete, Punta Cana). Unfortunately, he says that he doesn't know when. I have adapted, but the bottom line is that tourists that come want to have a good time and don't want to have go home at 2am on the weekends. Some have said that there are cities in the U.S. where clubs close at 2am. True. But, then you can go to a restaurant or hang out in some gathering spot. Here, once the clubs/bars close it is barely anyone on the street, though it is not against the law.

This past weekend the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States ended their festival in Santo Domingo. It was a resounding success. I have some video of the the fashion shows and some of the performances, but it is too large and I can't figure out how to cut it down. Still working on it and will make sure to get it uploaded real soon. God willing.

In the meantime, here are a few photos from the festival.

Until soon,
The Monaga Blogger

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Hotel Villa Colonial

Your intrepid blogger was walking in the Colonial Zone the other day, when I stumbled on this building. Being the nosy person I am, I just peeked in the window. To my surprise, it is a new hotel called Hotel Villa Colonial. The place has been open a very short time, but you can see from the photos that it is really beautiful. Another former mansion that was just completely and lovingly restored. The rooms are a bit on the small side, but nicely-done. The prices are $65 per night and include breakfast. The website (www.villacolonial.net) will be up shortly.

Hotel Villa Colonial
Calle Sanchez #157 (btw. Billini & Nouel)
Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo
809.221.1049
villacolonialsd@yahoo.fr

Get Your Own! View Slideshow