I spent the last week sailing around the Carribean with Fathom, and it was my first time traveling on a ship, it was a fantastic experience, to say the least. We set off for Miami on Sunday (it was also my first time there, and very impressed, definitely coming back). We were put up in the beautiful Sheraton Hotel right by the airport, making it extremely convenient for us to meet up with Fathom and get transferred to the port. I’ve got to say, it was very seamless, we had the most enjoyable and relaxing stay before heading out on our adventures overseas.
It was a beautiful sunset while setting sail aboard the Adonia, gorgeous Miami skyline as our backdrop. We sailed for Santiago de Cuba – what a beautiful boat ride to the gorgeous country. Getting off the ship in Santiago was a breeze, everything was so well organized as Fathom does a great job of making sure you’re prepared with all necessary documents, etc. Santiago de Cuba, beautiful and colour around every corner. We had a variety of options to choose from for shore excursions, we went with the Birthplace of Revolution tour. We were very happy with our choice as we were able to take a tour bus throughout the city and walk around the various spots in Santiago.
Santiago is a beautiful city, locals are friendly, happy and welcoming. We took the bus around, got to learn about the local culture, visit the sacred buildings and even got the amazing opportunity to visit Fidel Castro’s grave – what a cool experience. We even got to see the changing of the guards which was so cool. We got to go for lunch afterwards at a beautiful restaurant situated on the rooftop. There was delicious food, great company and a wonderful live soundtrack in the background. The restaurant was called Tre a Santiago Restaurante, and was a house on the bottom level and a restaurant on the second level and rooftop. After lunch, we took the bus around and went to the museum, and then went to a run and cigar shop (unfortunately, I didn’t buy anything, but it was an authentic experience for sure).
I loved touring Cuba with the air conditioned coaches, they even had a washroom on board – makes for a great way to explore the city in the heat. After spending a day in Santiago de Cuba, we set sail for the Dominican Republic. The ship has many on board restaurants with impeccable service, including a never-ending buffet which we spent the majority of our time at, haha. The great thing about being on a boat is the fact that you don’t have to worry about finding safe restaurants to eat at. The water on board the Adonia is safe to drink from also, so we didn’t have to worry about getting sick. The days at sea were very relaxing, there are a myriad of activities on board and two pools – one for kids and adults and one for adults only, situated at the spa.
When we got to the Dominican Republic, we were met with the most gorgeous cove setting, Amber Cove, to be exact. Amber Cove was beautiful, it had gorgeous architecture, bustling shops (new to the DR) and a beautiful pool which was available for passengers to take a dip in. I especially loved the quaint bungalows perched on the dock – I wish I would have stayed in one for the night. We spent the day hanging out at the pool and listening to the locals playing some music – what a great time!
The next morning we got up bright and early to go plant trees in the DR. This was such a cool and humbling experience to be a part of. The local reforestation efforts are designed to improve the livelihoods of Dominican families, restore degraded land, and contribute to forest and wildlife conversation throughout the region. This was such a fantastic way to give back to the local community, we ended up planting 500 trees that day, it was quite the accomplishment. The DR is beautiful, it’s extremely lush and quite mountainous, it was definitely a neat way to experience a new country, I hope to come back and plant 500 more.
Among reforestation, there are a variety of impact activities you can do. Some more are, teaching English, recycling paper and crafts, entrepreneurship, concrete floor building, water filter production and making cacao. All of these activities help the organization to thrive and provides critical income in a region with limited employment opportunities. These activities are great because Fathom worked with the locals to help design these programs. These impact activities connect travelers with local volunteers dedicated to improving their community. That’s what I liked about participating in these activities, you’re working with real people who want to make a real difference – these people are passionate and extremely grateful to the travelers, they really care for their communities and it’s so beautiful to witness.
After planting trees, the next day we spent some time unwinding at the beautiful beach at Playa Dorada in Puerto Plata. As you can see from my pictures, I had a great time and especially loved the beds on the beach, so relaxing.
Overall, this was an amazing experience, it’s a fantastic way to delve into a country’s culture because you get to be in the presence of the locals and get a taste of what the destination is all about. What I love about traveling with Fathom is that it’s authentic, Fathom has collaborated with locals to co-create a true experience. I would highly recommend traveling with Fathom the next time you’re planning a trip, you get it all in one experience – making a difference, learning about new cultures and relaxation. 
I truly loved meeting new people as that is what traveling is all about, stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying something new. It doesn’t matter where you come from, we all have a shared purposed in life and we have a responsibility to take care of each other and our beautiful planet. I feel truly humbled and honoured to be given the chance to make a difference and I hope you have the opportunity to do the same.This post is brought to you by Fathom and Her Campus Media.
Wearing: Mint bikini: c/o Moontide | White Bikini: c/o Moontide | Floral bodysuit: c/o Shein |
My husband and I spent 9 days in the Dominican Republic on our honeymoon and we absolutely loved it! Your trips sounds amazing, and the photos bring back so many memories!
That sounds like bliss, so thrilled you came and stopped by my blog! Thanks so much!
What an amazing trip! loving all your outfits girl xo
It was and thank you! 🙂
What a fantastic travel experience! I’ve got the Dominican Republic on my travel list and can’t wait to go!
It was the best experience, such a fabulous company! You’re going to love it!
It looks beautiful there – there’s nothing better than a fresh coconut on the beach 🙂 Love your bikini, too!
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It was, and I couldn’t agree more, Kamara! Thanks for checking out my post!