Welcome texcowboy, do you realize you have been the inspiration for an 11 page, and still going, newbie thread?
Unheard of around here. Usually a few posts in and the new guy is gone.
You have received great advice and recommendations and as XXX mentioned awhile back, you've asked questions in a polite manner, unlike so many others, and look at the feedback you've got? A great exchange of questions and answers.
Maybe it's too late for this if you already have made reservations, but if not, due to the hour you are arriving plus the time it will take to clear immigration, change money, etc....as a first timer to the DR, plus having your buddy with you, please consider a night in Santiago to get some sleep first. Then a taxi to Sosua the next day.
Check out booking.com for the Aloha Sol Hotel near the monument in the central part of Santiago. Been several years, but I have stayed there on 2 or 3 occasions when in Santiago. You'll probably check in about 4-4:30 am, they do have a staffed reception desk, get your room, grab a hot shower and some shut eye. Maybe work out a late checkout, depart at 1 pm in a taxi, arrive by 2:30 pm in Sosua and right on time to check in at your hotel there.
DO NOT take a taxi at that hour for that drive. Just too many accidents. Maybe the taxi guy is a solid driver but it's always that other guy you need to worry about. Take that arrival night and get a good nights sleep then by that next afternoon, you both will be like a couple of young colts ready to kick down the barn door!
Your 55 year old buddy will suddenly feel as if he has discovered the fountain of youth as he takes that first walk on Sosua Beach. You guys will be looking to book your next trip before your current one is even over!
Check who's traveling to Sosua when you guys are there and maybe you can meet up somewhere for a beer and shoot the shit. A great way to learn some valuable do's and don'ts. I'd love to hear about some of your Mexico travels, as well as other spots you've visited in the past. Bet you have some great stories, and insight, that many of us would appreciate hearing.
Have a blast and when you return home, post a trip report to make sure Jimmy knows what he's been missing for a dozen years!
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