Christopher, March 06 Minneapolis

Enlightening and Exciting.

I am here at Rancho Wendy from Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA and I have to say that the Rancho Wendy experience is sort of a mezcla of story-book romance and reality TV. By this I mean that it is all the beauty and adventure that you can or could ever read of or imagine, but it also proves that "truth is stranger than fiction". Breath-taking scenery and a dynamic throw-back to a simpler life is what Rancho Wendy is to me.

Carl, February 06, Wisconsin

In December of 2005 the urge to do some traveling, in the not so traveled part of the planet, bit me hard. I needed an adventure fix. Leaving Wisconsin winter for a bit warmer climate had some attraction. I wanted to go somewhere that I could do some exploring of a different culture and landscape. I only had three weeks to work with, so it had to be somewhere that wouldn't take up too many "getting there days". I started looking on the net for somewhere in central America or the Caribbean.

I stumbled across an inexpensive flight to the Dominican Republic. I did a little research on the web and the DR had an appeal. When I travel, I like to get to places that are not on the beaten path. I much prefer small villages and countryside to cities and beach resorts. While traveling in other parts of the world, I have stayed in hostels and found them to be places where travelers paths cross. They also tend to be places that offer a wealth of information on the areas they serve. I did a search on Google for hostels in the Dominican Republic. That brought me to Rancho Wendy.

After one long travel day, I was delivered to the doorstep of Rancho Wendy by the motoconcho that was the last leg of the journey. The darkness when I arrived kept me from knowing what a gem I had found until the next morning when the sun lit up the clouds clinging to the mountaintops that surround Los Quemados.

Marshall, Ramona and Wendy have created and continue to develop a friendly service for travelers who want to explore this delightful corner of the planet. They are always looking for new ways to help travelers experience the real DR at the same time helping the local people also learn from their guests. They were more than helpful in helping me get to the places I wanted to go in the area. When I wanted to hike to the Taino cave, Marshall's working relationship with local young folks, working as quides was vital. There is very little chance of finding this one on your own. It's a serious hike up the mountain to get to this rock shelter with many carvings.

Be sure to make use of the horses, bikes and small motorcycles that they have available for you. Good ways to explore the area. Brush up on your domino playing, there will be a game going on somewhere nearby. Hang out, watch, someone will invite you to sit in on a game or two. Expect to find well worn billiard tables in some places you wouldn't think. Take lots and lots of photos. (I took too few) Be prepared to want to return.

Lonnie 2006 United States

“In the heart of the Dominican jungle lives a donkey with the most spectacular view.  After a 10 mile hike up the mountains we discovered a land rich with friendly people and beauty at every turn.  I recommend a trip up to the Ranchero Wendy to anyone looking for a unique experience!” 

Kennia 2006 Netherlands
 

Hello my name is Kennia, from Holland (Amsterdam). I am here with my boyfriend, Mark and my family from San Pedro de Macoris. We came all the way from San Pedro de Marcoris by bus, which took us about 4 hours, we were so tired we just wanted to crash down. Marshall Zipper, the host of the hostel was so nice to pick us up at the bus station. When we finally were driving toward to rancho Wendy, we got more and more exciting seeing all the nature and hills around us. We got a warm welcome when we arrived at the hostel, after that we took a short walk thru the street.

The next morning we went to see a beautiful waterfall, by horse. It was a long and rough trip; we had to cross rivers by horses.  But at the end it was all worth it. We were in paradise; the water was clear and so natural you could drink it. We had a great time climbing the rocks of the waterfall and swimming in the pure water.

Unfortunately this is our last night, we are waiting to get a nice home cooked supper from Ramona, the wife of Marshall. Thanks for the great time. Greeting Kennia Arrindell

Andrea & Karl 2006-03-04

 Hi, Me and my friend stayed at the ranch for only two days and one night but had an experience we won’t forget. When we arrived after a rough bus ride we just sat down in the garden by a small river relaxing for a couple of hours. Then we were accompanied by two girls that were also staying at the ranch, and we spent the night eating delicious home made food by a bon fire that we light up ourselves.

 The next morning we saddled up three horses and went out on a beautiful horse ride, with the Ranch owner Marshall as our guide. We spent at least four hours on the back of the horses riding through astonishing landscapes in the mountains. 

 Thanks for a pleasant visit!

 Andreas & Karl (The two Swedes)

Gwen & Emily July 2006 USA

Everyday was my favorite day at Rancho Wendy.  My sister and I had searched numerous websites, looking for an interesting ecotour.  Rancho Wendy had the most diverse itinerary and the most welcoming appeal.  Our expectations were blown away as soon as we arrived, in the best sense possible!  Emily and I were welcomed into the Rancho Wendy family and always felt welcomed by the Dominican people. 

            From an environmental standpoint, the Dominican Republic is diverse enough to make your mind reel.  Every plant has uniquely adapted to the tropical surrounding that the island provides.  The colors of the vegetation are vibrant and vivid.  The abundance of naturally growing fruit was incredible.  As an enhancement to the beautiful environmental surroundings, is the vibrant culture of the Dominican people.  Emily and I met so many new friends on our adventure. 

            The adventures that Emily and I embarked on where thrilling.  Every day was my favorite because everyday provided a new challenge which brought new rewards.  From horseback riding through the crystal clear streams to hiking through mountain villages, everyday was simply incredible. 

            Emily and I choose the eight day adventure/beach tour.  The beach was also almost indescribably beautiful.  The beach offered: lush coconut tree stands, warm ocean water, a cool breeze, and of course, the warm sun.  The clean, sandy beach contained hammocks, lounge chairs, and much relaxation!

            I recommend this vacation!  I came home with a renewed perspective on my own life and also the world.  My first day back to work I told my boss the stories of our trip.  He responded, “You know you have a great vacation when you don’t want to come home!”