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I going back on the fathom Adonia
As you might recall, I went to Cuba for a week on the fathom Adonia cruise ship, last August. The ship alternates every other week between Cuba and the Dominican Republic. It has been the only US cruise ship that goes exclusively to Cuba (since May 2016) and all of the shore excursions are pre-planned, well organized, and included in the price.
I just booked a week on the Dominican Republican sailing, leaving at the end of January next week. The Dominican Republic is a "voluntourism" vacation, where guests have an opportunity to make an impact in a country where 40% of the residents live below the poverty level and many are still in need of basics such as clean, piped water and concrete floors. I will have opportunities to volunteer in seven categories of activities while there. I might teach English to family members and to school children. English proficiency is the largest driver of employment success in the Dominican Republic economy. Other activities include planting trees, helping to build water filters, and pouring concrete floors.
I got a really good deal that includes my room, food all day long, entertainment during the evenings, lectures and group activities during the day, and many other activities in addition to the spa, dance classes, movies, and of course, volunteer activities while there. The ship will be docked for three nights at a large tropical resort (Amber Cove) which we can access whenever we like. There are also opportunities for traditional vacation activities such as scuba diving, zip line tours, museum visits, city tours, and Catamaran sailings. I am looking forward to this unique vacation!!
Because the green light was turned on regarding travel to Cuba, fathom will cease operations at the end of May, only one year after its inaugural sailing. The ship will be returned to its parent company at P&O cruise lines.
I cannot wait to board the ship in three days!
