MARKET MAKER

While I may say I like to "just relax" on vacation, the truth is that by the fourth day I'm beyond restless and no amount of swimming or pool bar posing can quench my thirst for a little adventure.  My husband is usually up for a road trip too, so when I suggested that we head out early one morning  and look for the weekly market in the little town of La Romana, he was game. I was glad to have his company on the trip-I knew that his excellent command of Spanish coupled with his stealth NYC driving skills (better than most fearless taxi drivers) would prove invaluable as we made our way around a very sketchy neighborhood. I find that one of the best moments of a road trip is the anticipation of what you may find.  Will there be gorgeous woven bags, beaded wraps, perhaps a handmade necklace crafted of fine Dominican amber?  Unfortunately no such trinkets awaited us at the market that day. The stalls were mostly filled with sarongs made in China and kitschy shot glasses, but I did find some lovely shell bracelets-weighty, tropical pieces that look fantastic with a holiday tan. I took them home and will wear them this summer, my something found on our little adventure.

Do you like to travel off the beaten path on your vacation?