Recently I have realized how “un-island-like” the Dominican Republic is. Until I arrived, I fostered an image of the DR having a very Jamaican “island culture”, with bright patterned clothing, lots of seafood, spicy sauces and everything beach-related. However, in reality, I would never know I was on a Caribbean Island if I hadn’t flown here. I eat canned sardines, wear knock-off American brand clothing and eat NOTHING spicy (Dominicans hate spicy food—good thing I brought my Blind Betty’s hot sauce). Large cities here such as Santo Domingo and Santiago appear like Latin New York barrios. I have been somewhat disappointed by the lack of large open-air markets and reggae tunes... the DR seems much more Central American than Caribbean. Overall, it’s interesting to see how culture predominates over location.

In other news, today has been very productive! I ventured into town this morning to speak with the doctor at the rural clinic about my plans for the next few months. He is very open to collaboration and even wants to use my community diagnostic to help with the clinic’s records! He is very proactive. It also turns out there are 10 health promoters in the area. I need to find out more about these promoters so I can utilize them myself!

I also visited the school to talk about teaching English and possible resources that the school can provide. After 2 hours of talking to students and teachers, it’s been determined that I will be teaching English 2x a week for the next 10 weeks on my own. I will also be helping 2 mornings a week in the school’s classrooms teaching English. Whew—I have my work cut out for me, especially because I don’t know how to teach English.

Other Updates:
• Today I discovered the wonder that is Microsoft Outlook (minus the email function). I love the calendar and tasks functions (and am about 10 years behind everyone else in terms of using this program)!!
• Today in the village I met a Dominican woman who has lived on Long Island for the past 35 years and had returned to visit family. She was decked out in a pink jumpsuit and was wearing Dolce and Gabbana knockoff accessories. We spoke English (and her English has a Long Island accent..) and she complained about missing McDonalds coffee. She also asked me if I could get her mother in the village a “diabetes machine”. I told her no I couldn’t, and she replied “don’t worry, I can get one for free from my primary care provider in the states. I’m coming back down to visit next month anyway”. This made me laugh.
• My first “food purchase” for myself at home in Guayabo consisted of: imported Raspberry Preserves, Quaker Granola and a ½ gallon of strawberry yogurt. It cost $16 US dollars. Very pricey, but totally worth it!
• Interestingly, I have seen no alcohol at any community events, birthday parties or dinners in my community. I don’t know if that is because my community is religious or alcohol is expensive.