insamana n°13 - April 2015 (English version)

insamana N 掳 1 3 A b ri l 2 0 1 5 路 magazine de arquitectur a, dise帽o, decor aci贸n, inter ior ismo, proyectos...

El Lindo

New airs in the Super Market

Carnival in Las Terrenas A display of fantasy and color

Ocean Club A secret paradise

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OPINION

Yes, we can Editors: Silvia Leperre Armando Doménech Photographs: Gianmaria Pisino Collaborators: Elsa Charlier,

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or those of us who have the privilege of living in Las Terrenas or any part of the Samaná Peninsula, it is no secret that phenomena such as pollution, coral reef erosion, uncontrolled construction near beaches, vehicle traffic and parking, and changes in sea water conditions cause a constant erosion of our beaches.

There are no magic solutions for this problem. There are, however, brilliant ideas to guide us in the right direction... ideas that are actually taking place, in front of our eyes.

A “soft”, natural, and most importantly, free solution that integrates our coastal surroundings’ natural processes is to build -or rather- rebuild sand dunes. This process is considered one of the most effective methods to control coastal erosion.

Clarisse Piveteau, Nicolas Brehm, Laura Perdomo Translation: Laura Perdomo

The theory is simple: by placing dunes, the wave is forced to “climb” an inclined plane and because sand is porous, wave energy is filtered and sand is no longer dragged once the water has retracted.

The process can be carried out by using the same Sargassum or seaweed deposited by sea currents and found especially during bad weather. This seaweed is aligned in a dune shape manner along beach areas that need to be recovered and is later covered with sand. Given the biodegradable nature of Sargassum, as it captures sand, it will ultimately be covered in it.

The content and advertisements in the magazine do not necessarily state or reflect those of the editors.

insamana is a publication by Tres Editores SRL.

The next step is to cover the dune with vegetation, preferably with native species of low height and rapid growth.

A plant that naturally populates our beaches is clearly the best idea. The species scientific name is Canavalia rosea, a vine with a funnel-shaped flower commonly known as Bay Bean. This plant has great relevance in the final result because it can trap moving sand and accumulate it over long periods of time.

Sea grape (Coccoloba uvifera) is also considered a very important dune-building plant species; the extensive root system holds sand in place and shadow provided by the leaves reduces soil evaporation, allowing other vegetation to establish.

RNC 1-30-06538-1 Beach Garden Plaza, local 10 Las Terrenas, Samaná, R.D.

Unfortunately, these measures are no longer effective in sites where erosion has reached severe levels. Nevertheless, work can be started immediately in many other sites in order to preserve our fantastic environment.

Tel. (1) 809 240-6715 E-mail: tres_editores@yahoo.es

You don’t think this works? Would you like to see the results? Easy, take a look at the beaches in front of Hotel Alisei or Balcones del Atlántico. Both hotels have been implementing this solution for months and the results are noticeable... very much so.

If we don´t wish to wait and see if the Municipality, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Tourism or Government takes matters into their hands, we can start by, literally, contributing with a little grain of sand.

Remembering a famous quote by John Fitzgerald Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country”.

Silvia Leperre

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Opinion Yes, we can

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Intro News, openings, new events…

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Casa Daniel Rock ‘n’ Roll spirit in Las Galeras

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M y S Constructora Inmobiliaria Their latest projets

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Ocean Club A secret paradise

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Shiva’s Cave Yoga retreats in La Barbacoa

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Supermercado Lindo Renewing the super market

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Carnival in Las Terrenas A display of fantasy and color

40 Interior design Vintage Industrial Style...

42 Environment Potable water 44 Nature There’s a bird in my garden!

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Professional staff, attentive, polite always at your service

An ISO standard laboratory

Use our experience for your projects

TECMALAB has the latest laboratory equipment to perform all types of diagnostic tests: microbiology, physical, chemical, flow measurement, pressure testing, soil testing, air quality measurements...

TECMALAB has been working in the Dominican Republic since 2005. Our CEO has over 20 years of working experience in the Caribbean. Our team has extensive expertise -both technical and institutional- to solve any kind of problem: • •

• • • •

Contact: TECMALAB S.R.L. Calle Selene, 41B, Bella Vista.

Santo Domingo.

Parques Las Terrenas CP 39.

Las Terrenas Cel. (1) 809 817-7764 (1) 809 862-0485 : brehmn nicolas.brehm@nbcsarl.com www.tecma-constructores.com 8 insamana

Environmental impact statement.

Design, construction or remodeling of treatment plants.

Soil decontamination.

Technical evaluation/reporting. Sanitary reports.

Leakage investigation.

Hydraulic modeling, etc.

Contact us and let us know what type of service you need and we will find the best-fitted solution according to your technical and economic circumstances. A first one-on-one interview is required. At TECMALAB, we maintain long-term relationships with all of our clients.

intro

Ago e Filo

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Already well-known and reputed in Las Terrenas for providing thoughtful and professional sewing services, Ago e Filo opened its doors in a new and larger establishment in Plaza Rosada.

In addition to upholstery, manufacturing and repair services, they also offer Brazilian swimwear and a selection of fabrics for decor.

Yaya Natural Orgánico

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Everyone loves to nourish their body and nurture their soul. Yaya offers you variety and quality: organic, homeopathic or vegan products; vitamins, minerals, herbal medicine... plus local elixirs like Noni and Moringa. The establishment’s detailed interior and exterior design is outstanding and perfectly in sync with offered products.

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Boulangerie Française

This bakery has been, since it first opened, the town’s classic meeting point during breakfast hours and everyone agrees on the quality of their croissants, pastries and baguettes. Rachèle and Philippe have recently completely remodeled their establishment in Plaza Taína, which now looks more modern, cleaner and tidier, a real bijou.

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Bounty Bar

The Av. Duarte is becoming livelier with many nice small businesses, some very typical. This is the case for Bounty Bar, tucked in a lovely wooden house. Local wood furniture, animaliermotif cushions and chocolate tones achieve a colonial atmosphere, the set is complete. Furthermore, beer prices are just right and drinks include some much appreciated hors d’oeuvres. insamana 9

intro Agua Check

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In order to promote respect for fishing bans and foster a greater responsibility and sustainability in the management of sea food, Reef Check Dominicana is launching “Agua Check”, a gastronomic certification program. We hope that seafood grocery stores and restaurants join this initiative in respect of our environment.

Beach Garden Plaza

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This friendly commercial center, located directly on the beach, has recently completed construction work on the second wing (waterfront) of a beautiful three-story bean-shaped building.

While some commercial establishments are in service and others are currently reserved, spaces of varied size are still available.

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Jack & Rose

One of the most beautiful and sought after boutiques in Las Terrenas is located in a simple cubic building, right in front El Paseo. Alexandra and Marion have had the delicacy and good taste of enhancing the establishment with a magnificent wooden ceiling decorated in romantic gingerbread style, which gives the boutique an elegant and charming touch. Congratulations!

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Epyos

Isabelle Brière, the enthusiastic and energetic owner of Evasion Beauté, the famous beauty institute in Las Terrenas, is moving and increasing her already wide range of services. In April, Isabelle will open Epyos beauty institute and hammam in Aligio Apart-hotel & Spa. The decor is inspired by typical oriental baths with fantastic “star-studded skies”.

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IMPORTING EUROPEAN WINDOWS SINCE 2007

“CLIMALIT” DOUBLE-GLAZING SYSTEM, ENERGY-SAVING, ACOUSTIC INSULATION

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CAULKED WINDOW FRAMES FOR A PERFECT FINISH

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3-POINT LOCKING FOR SLIDING WINDOWS

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3-YEAR WARRANTY

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•

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OVER 100 COLOR REFERENCES

RESISTANCE TO WINDS OF UP TO 220 KM/H

EUROPEAN MANUFACTURING

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PRICES INCLUDE TAXES AND INSTALLATION

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LIFE STYLE

Casa Daniel Rock ‘n’ Roll spirit in Las Galeras

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This superb villa is the result of “love at first sight” for an artist with the Dominican Republic, particularly, with the authentic fisher village of Las Galeras.

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ocated at 26 km from Santa Bárbara de Samaná, with unspoiled vegetation, turquoise waters, local folk with unique zest for life and an ability to welcome everyone with a smile, Las Galeras put a spell on Daniel for life.

In the past, Daniel was involved in the fashion world and lived a hectic and stressful life. To decompress and recharge batteries, he made a habit of coming to Las Galeras twice a year. Along the way he decided to invest in some land, with the intention of

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LIFE STYLE

building a dream home once he retired. This house is the realization of his dream.

Built on a plot of 1,228 m2 in a residential area 200 meters from Playa Las Galeras, the house is completely fenced and protected by a wall that is tucked away in lush deep green vegetation.

The house includes a kitchen, indoor lounge with TV, dining room, outdoor terrace on the first floor, two bedrooms with bathrooms and toilettes (French style), swimming pool, pool house, lounge room with terrace on the second floor, private disco, gym and garage. Both the lounge room and the gym can be easily transformed into additional rooms.

The wonderful and well maintained tropical garden embraces the home and creates a beaming Caribbean setting. Other features include automatic irrigation system, TV cameras, alarm system... All designed to guarantee relaxation and far niente, for unique moments of calm and voluptuousness.

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This little paradise is the perfect illustration of the famous French saying “in order to live happily, live hidden”.

So many naps have been taken, so many romances devoured between the white cushions of the sublime pool house... so many laughs and anthological aperitifs in the sumptuous lounge room, on the first floor terrace and what else is there to say about the evenings enjoyed in the private disco to the rhythm of Barry White, The Rolling Stones, Santana, Jimi Hendrix, Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley...

The Rock ‘n’ Roll touch is also perceived in the decor. The owner’s great musical passion permeates the house with musical winks reflected in details such as a series of paintings of rock musicians from the 60s and 70s. A grand tribute to great music stars and further evidence of the owner’s rebellious and nonconformist spirit.

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LIFE STYLE

This home is the refuge we all yearn for in search of happiness, a retreat to meditate, relax and love!

The open space and pool take center stage and concentrate all social life, summoning daytime activities on hot sunny days, and nocturnal events, during the fabulous Caribbean nights: a dip in the pool, an evening with music from the Gipsy Kings on the background, under a curtain of stars, has the power to persuade us that paradise does exist!

Latest News!

Casa Daniel is up for sale.

Contact: Tel. (1) 809 538-0228 Mobile (1) 829 858-8439 danielgotri@claro.net.do insamana 17

PUBLI-REPORT

Playa Punta Popy

Playa Las Terrenas

M y S Constructora Inmobiliaria

El Pueblo de los Pescadores

rero e Feb . 27 d Avda

Puerto Plaza El Paseo

Centro Colonial

Casa Linda

Avd a

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Calle Carmen

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Plaza Taina

Clínica Cubanos Plaza Milano

70

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C/ Salomé Ureña Residencial Blue One

Presents their latest projects in Las Terrenas

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as Terrenas is a dream destination for many visitors who feel attracted by the natural diversity, marvelous beaches and magnificent nature of this area along with the kindness of its people. Everyone wants to visit Las Terrenas and many want to stay.

After the successful completion of a series of villas in the hills of Cosón, M y S Constructora Inmobiliaria is promoting two new projects with the free option to invest in a home or a rental space.

The first project called Residencial Blue One, is located at Calle Salomé Ureña, just 70 meters from Avenida Duarte, in the heart of Las Terrenas (see location map).

The project is comprised by just two apartment blocks with

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contemporary design, each with its own parking space, and a community swimming pool with ipe wood deck.

Different sizes are offered: 62 m2 studio with bathroom and kitchen; 172 m2 apartment with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, kitchen with breakfast bar and laundry area; 110 m2 apartments with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen and laundry area.

Each apartment features a large terrace that can also be used as a living room, dining room, workspace, etc. to fully enjoy the magnificent Caribbean weather.

The apartments will be equipped with furniture and white goods.

All brand new, straight from the factory.

The second project is located at Avenida Los Corales, right before Vela Blanca restaurant and just 200 meters from Playa Las Ballenas, one of the best beaches in the country. A small lot of only four land plots, where 4 key in hand villas will be built using an American style distribution.

Each villa will comprise 112 m of space plus a mezzanine of 12,72 m2 and feature 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a half, a 21 m2 private pool, 24 m2 ipe deck with invisible fastening system, treated pine wood ceilings with thatch palm finishes, water tank, grass garden, chain-link/cyclone fence and frontal block wall with 2

automatic gate for vehicle entry. If you need more space you may opt for the largest model: villa with 130 m2 of living space, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a half plus the same general features described for the former.

The location is ideal, at a short distance from the beach, Pueblo de los Pescadores, El Paseo, all commercial banks, shops and most renowned services.

M y S Constructora Inmobiliaria is a company with vast experience in the real state sector, focused on giving complete and personalized service. We pay special attention to the environment and always favor renewable materials, LED lighting, etc.

For further information contact us. We’ll always welcome you with joy and good humor.

M y S Constructora Inmobiliaria Avenida Duar te n° 169 Las Terrenas (Samaná) Tel. 1(809) 240-5727 · Cel. (1) 809 883-3230 www.samanasol.com info@samanasol.com insamana 19

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PUBLI-REPORT

OCEAN CLUB

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PUBLI-REPORT

A secret paradise is nestled in the heart of the prestigious Residencia Esperanza complex: Ocean Club.

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ust two steps from the magnificent Playa El Enclón, Guillaume Bouzonnet, one of the founders of Residencia Esperanza, recently built Ocean Club, a luxurious complex of six magnificent and exclusive apartments.

Why build apartments in a residence consisting of luxury villas?

Very simply put: for the taste of it! I always dreamed of a penthouse suspended in the heart of nature and, since I´m lucky enough to have land in Esperanza... Ocean Club was born!

I’ve always liked the idea of ​​this contrast. Evidently, in order to build a penthouse, there has to be something underneath! The compound harmonizes with the spirit of Residencia Esperanza: Ocean Club’s luxury and design are in perfect symbiosis with the villas I’m building in Residencia.

Furthermore, many people are interested in owning a high-end property without necessarily having the obligations of a villa. They want a concept of luxurious life that’s functional. In an apartment everything is easier: services managed by third parties, when you leave for travel you just shut the door...

Obviously, building without limits was out of the question, so I chose to construct only six units. Each one is different in size and distribution, with the option to select ground floor with private insamana 23

PUBLI-REPORT

garden, duplex or triplex penthouse. The compound overlooks a 25m semi-Olympic pool, ideal for swimming.

A professional fitness room is being completed at the edge of this pool. In short, everything is perfect to move in and live...

The apartments’ finishes are of excellent quality: aluminum carpentry, double glazing, African solid wood doors, Hi-Fi Bang & Olufsen wiring, polished cement or coral stone floors, European kitchen and appliances, private garages... the list goes on. The apartments have the same standards as the luxury villas already built in Esperanza.

Although Residencia Esperanza is known for having high quality performance and effectiveness with regard to security, I must emphasize that I’ve worked on reassuring the owners by placing video cameras in all the corners and providing security service in the beach area facing Ocean Club. For many people this topic is certainly a decisive argument, but for others it may be proximity to the beach, a tennis club at a five minute-walk distance or the kilometers of private roads available for cycling in total tranquility.

“For everyone it’s a secret paradise” Contact: Guillaume Bouzonnet, Cel. (1) 809 756-4114 relax.lasterrenas@hotmail.com

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Shiva’s Cave en Monte Placido

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magine yourself enjoying a morning practice overlooking the coconut groves stretching out to the sea. Imagine yourself seated for pranayama surrounded by a gentle ocean breeze, or in a deep meditation in the upper level of a natural limestone grotto. This is Shiva’s Cave.

Shiva’s Cave is a unique space dedicated to yoga. It has a large open deck with stunning views of the countryside and ocean below. It is stocked with mats, blocks, blankets, belts and an Iyengar style rope wall.

The Cave is part of Monte Placido Vacation Home Rentals, located in the village of La Barbacoa near the town of Las Terrenas. Monte Placido offers six affordable housing options suitable for individuals, couples, families or groups. The fully furnished rental homes, as well as Shiva’s Cave can accommodate 20 – 25 individuals.

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PUBLI-REPORT Monte Placido hill top residence has spectacular gardens hosting over 200 different species of plants. In the center of the lush garden is the pool and barbeque area. It is a fantastic place to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The houses on Monte Placido are available for rental from two days up to two months for a vacation, yoga seminar or retreat.

If you would like to take yoga lessons, we have experienced teachers you can reserve for private or group classes. Shiva’s Cave and the pool area can also be rented for weddings or other special events.

We encourage you to contact us through our website: www.monteplacido.com mountplacid@gmail.com Photos and text: Oscar Richard

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PUBLI-REPORT

Supermercado

LINDO

El Mercado SĂşper Supermercado Lindo is in full process of innovation betting on Las Terrenas and applying the concept of offering better service each day 28 insamana

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he ‘90s were interesting times for Las Terrenas. The town was growing at a steady pace and began to demand more and better products and services.

It was at this moment when the first large supermarket in town, Tío Billy, was opened and changed the concept of shopping in the area. It was something completely different from traditional grocery stores; a wager on the town and its future. This supermarket was visited especially by people from middle and upper class, tourists and foreign residents. More than 12 years ago, Tío Billy became Supermercado Lindo, reinventing itself and aiming for an even better service and a more comprehensive product offer.

The sales point rapidly grew, a fruits and vegetables section was added and a beautiful wooden wine room was created, in order to expand the offering of wines and spirits in general. El Lindo, as we all affectionately call it, earned a place in the hearts of “Terreneros”, revived the region’s economy and created jobs for small and medium producers, whose work was always praised and acknowledged.

After so many years and so much work, key lessons were learned: the most important thing is still the customer and good service is always rewarded with trust, affection and loyalty from consumers. insamana 29

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PUBLI-REPORT In the past year all efforts were devoted to establishing a sustained level of comfort, safety, hygiene, variety and quality.

The renovation project, which bears the signature of designer Philippe Herbreteau, includes radical changes in product presentation, installation of new furniture, and of course, significant improvements in product offering.

Furthermore, Plaza Mango -adjacent to the Supermarket- was completely restructured by building seven large commercial spaces, 55 additional parking spaces for cars and roofed parking spaces for motorcycles and bicycles.

The sales area (of over 1000 m2) presently offers everything you may need and want from a supermarket: a meats section (most definitely the best in town); an extensive and very well-organized fruits and vegetables section with a suitable selection of high quality, fresh, organic products; a sweets lovers corner with fantastic desserts and cakes by Nadine, a French pastry chef with renowned talent.

Another novelty is the bakery section, which offers crispy baguettes, rustic bread, pastries, croissants and more treats.

In addition to all the perks there is, naturally, a supply of basic products: a wide range of dairy goods, frozen food, cleaning products, various water brands, kitchenware and a large etcetera.

A supermarket where food lovers can fill their baskets with multiple and rich flavors.

El Lindo distinguishes from the rest by the quality of products, most of which are unrivaled by those of competitors, thanks to the work of producers and suppliers. This Supermarket favors the geographic proximity and origin of produce that guarantee freshness and optimal nutritional

properties. Most vegetables and all meat products come directly from El Lindo’s very own farm, located in El Naranjito, in the hills overlooking Las Terrenas, where a clean and sustainable agriculture is practiced, in order to ensure both our health and that of the environment. Plans for the future include expanding the supply of products with no preservatives, dyes, chemicals and/or other health harmful elements, and a gluten-free/ food intolerances section. The aim is to support a lifestyle that relies on food security, the physical well-being of people and, at the same time, shows respect and cares for the environment. insamana 31

PUBLI-REPORT Follow them on Facebook and get the latest information on product arrivals, especially imports, French cheeses, wines... and/or special offers.

Supermercado Lindo has two large parking lots, a 24-hour security service and a bank branch with ATM service. It’s located in the heart of town and accept all major credit cards.

Need to shop? Naturally, go to El Lindo.

Supermercado Lindo Avenida Juan Pablo Duarte, Plaza Rosada (Las Terrenas) Tel. (1) 809 240-6003 free home delivery service Facebook: supermercadolindo Working hours: Monday to Saturday from 8:30am to 8:00pm Sundays from 9:00am to 1:00pm

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A display of fantasy and color in Las Terrenas’ Carnival Carnival has many faces but only one expression, fun.

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raditionally, it is an expression of pure freedom and, as such, of Dominican identity where sarcasm, exaggeration, valor and imagination come together in the manifestation of characters giving color and life, generating laughter and joy.

The City Council Committee decided, this 2015, to re-launch Carnival in Las Terrenas as both a cultural event and tourist attraction. Quite aptly, it was also displayed along the beach, a much more attractive spot, certainly, for both the mount of tourists who visit during these dates and existing residents. The chosen theme was “The Waves of the Sea� to underline the maritime heritage of Las Terrenas.

The initiative received a warm and spontaneous welcome: associations, schools of all grade levels, dance schools, businesses and individuals were set in motion and they prepared and began to massively sign up since the end of January, and all, very well organized or totally improvised took to the streets on Saturday March 7th to live, enjoy and immerse themselves in Carnival delight, moving at their own rhythm, seduced by the magic, colors and fun characters, absorbed by the passion of the people.

The event lacked nothing: traditional and pure fantasy costumes as Carnival celebrations dictate: whales, jellyfish, fish, pirates, Hawaiian dancers, classical costumes or timely revised interpretations, mixed with Diablos Cojuelos, Roba Gallinas and the multicolored Papeluses, delivering a great holiday in Las Terrenas.

The entire region was represented in the

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parade with groups from Samaná, Cabrera, Sánchez and El Limón, plus floats from La Vega and other parts of the country. The event’s finale was held directly on the beach, where song and dance continued in the form of live performances until evening hours. But it did not end there. The party kept on going in the new Plaza Mango with presentations from children and adolescents from Camelot Dance School.

Spectators who flooded the streets not only attended the parade, they lived it because the party was meant for the entire town. Joy was everywhere along with good humor and a reigning camaraderie. Carnival has no borders and lives according to the idea of freedom. All are equal, ruled only by a special form of free and familiar contact regardless of status, wealth, occupation, age...

Long live Carnival!

Traditional Carnival characters represent caricatures of Dominican culture: Diablo Cojuelo (limping devil) who tried the patience of the devil himself and was thrown to Earth, injuring his leg during the fall and left limping. This costume ridicules the attires of medieval knights with cape, colorful baggy pants and a mask representing an animal or a horrible, hideous face.

Roba Gallinas (hen thief) is a man, disguised as a woman with abundant breast and buttock, who visits “colmados” (local grocery stores) and other commercial establishments asking for handouts for her chicks, who are none other than local young men who follow her in a jubilant procession.

Los Papeluses (the paper men) make their costumes from strips of newspaper or plastic bags.

These costumes are, somehow, an evolution of Los Platanuses (banana men), typical in Cotuí’s Carnival, who make their costumes from dried banana tree leaves and masks from calabash tree fruits. Adorned with termite and wasp nests, the costumes are very striking and beautiful.

The cow bladder -traditionally cured with lime, ash and salt- is a particularly important element in street manifestations during Carnival. These bladders are currently reinforced on the inside with plastic material and later covered with a cloth to protect them. Dried and inflated, they are used to deliver noisy blows to spectators and other demons. insamana 39

DECORATION

Vintage Industrial Style...

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Elsa Charlier and Clarisse Piveteau Designers and Decorators of Be Design

oft ambiance or penthouse, the industrial style creates a spirit in interior design and joins the latest trends regarding decor.

combining art and industrial design, this new style conjugates aesthetics and functionality, the essential qualities we long for in a home.

This style dates back to the 50s and emerges in response of the need to furnish countless post war shops.

The lines, which conjugate sobriety and vintage spirit, can be perfectly combined with other styles of decoration. The resulting atmosphere is refined, masculine because industrial style rhymes with cold materials such as steel, zinc or corrugated iron... metal rules.

Formerly reserved for artists, this trend is increasingly popular nowadays, more specifically among those who want contemporary fashionable interiors. Harmoniously

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Creating your own industrial style...

This style is practical and easy to achieve, and being both economic and ecological makes it even more seductive. In the spirit of recovery, polished furniture, old signs, club armchairs and brick walls modernize home interiors. A simple decoration approach is used, focusing on the profile of furniture, objects and accessories newly arrived from factory.

As for furniture, time worn pieces are preferable: the most worn out will achieve the most original look. The woods are revived and tangy colors give a new look to rooms that move across eras and provide a delicious retro feeling to the decor.

Favoring sober and refined lines is the best

choice with regard to objects. Industrial design accessories, which are often made of steel, exude a sense of robustness. This is the case for hangers, stools, wall plates, metal cabinets and, especially, lamps.

From the 50s style warehouse lamp –articulated, robust and practical– to suspended lamps typically found in auto shops, the design allows for powerful lighting, adding a retro charm to every room.

Raw –occasionally embossed– materials, steel and wood are absolute kings. The concrete floor is ideal to enhance vintage industrial furniture and items and reflects strength and simplicity.

For walls, the use of somewhat sober and elegant colors such as white, beige, green,

slate-like or anthracite grey is fitting. In the case of fabrics, opt for vintage kitsch and aged colors, without over doing it.

Vintage Industrial is so successful these days because of the era it reminds us of, that comfy, reassuring side of all things familiar.

The quality and solidness of the materials utilized to manufacture industrial furniture responds to the need of departing from the massive consumption of “disposable furniture” by way of restoring more permanent possessions.

The whole conception of the furniture universe is reconsidered with poetry, creating an elegant, comfortable and above all... unique atmosphere! insamana 41

ENVIRONMENT

Water in the Samaná peninsula

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irst of all, it is necessary to define a number of key steps to fully understand the issues at hand with this vital resource.

Indeed, there are five stages in the production of drinking water: • • • • •

The raw water resource The treatment The disinfection The storage The distribution

The resource and its treatment To produce drinking water, it is necessary to have a raw water resource.This can be from a groundwater more o less deep, or surface waterways (river, resurgence...). This water must have physicochemical and bacteriological characteristics compatible with the standards in force and the processing means envisaged. For example, and this is often the case on the Samaná peninsula, the water must not contain too much salt (desalinization represents a significant cost in investment and operation -energy-) or excessive contamination by bacteria. That is why it is essential to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the raw water BEFORE designing a water treatment unit. Indeed one does not prescribe a drug to a patient without having him make analysis, and then the patient must consult a doctor to find out what treatment(s) consider depending on the results.

It is the same for water; you must consult a specialist to find out which treatment tools you should put in place and how to size them. At this level, beware of charlatans who improvise in the water field and offer you a unique solution. Water engineering is a real job and your health depends on it. Each context has it or its solution(s), and unfortunately there is not a universal treatment. If that were the case, it would be known.

Disinfection After treating the water and obtaining water free of turbidity (cloudiness of the water), odorless (often due to sulfide on the Samaná peninsula) and with a residual bacterial load, you must disinfect the water. Disinfection eliminates germs still present in the water: viruses, bacteria, amoeba, protozoa... For this, we conventionally use strong oxidizers such as chlorine, chlorine dioxide, ozone and more rarely hydrogen peroxide. These products are used in specific doses, with

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an equally determined contact time, and in particular physicochemical condition. Also, the chemical disinfection of water requires, as the processing stage, a certain degree of expertise.

Furthermore the chemical disinfection, there is a physical mean to disinfect water: the use of a lamp generating ultraviolet (UV). In contact with the UV, the DNA of the bacteria present in the water is destroyed.

The strength of this method is that it perfectly disinfects the water and even attacks chlorine-resistant germs such as Giardia intestinalis that rages in certain areas of the peninsula. The major drawback of the ultraviolet is that it is only effective on a perfectly clear water (without turbidity). Likewise, after the passage of the ultraviolet, there is a risk of recontamination of the water in the distribution system. Indeed, the UV does not have the sticking effects that have oxidants such as chlorine; those pursue their action in the reservoirs and distribution networks. Note that the coupling of the UV and chlorination enables to achieve a relevant “sanitary lock”.

Storage and distribution Once disinfected, the water is typically stored in tanks and distributed by gravity to the end consumer via a distribution network usually in HDPE or PVC in the Samaná region. For long networks, it is sometimes appropriate to chlorinate the water again, so as to avoid the risk of bacterial revivification.

Conclusions The final stage of the urban water cycle is the use and consumption of this drinking water by humans and its release into the environment after treatment in a wastewater treatment plant. We will talk about this final stage in our next issue of Insamana magazine.

In Las Terrenas, INAPA inaugurated in 2009 a drinking water production station in Cosón. It treats and disinfects the water from a good quality river. The current weakness has to do with the distribution network which does not cover all the needs of the area. Many users are not served and must provide for their own daily supply of drinking water.

On the other hand, and this is bound, INAPA suffers from a very low billing recovery rate (only 15% of consumers pay for water across the country!), and therefore is unable to abide by the economic golden rule of the profession: “Water pays water”.Thus, as it was clearly stated at the workshop on water in the French Week of October 2014 by the director of INAPA, “...institutional reforms will be needed in the future to be able to develop the structures for production, distribution and water billing in the Dominican Republic”.

Nicolas Brehm Translation: Beatrice Morel insamana 43

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There’s a bird in my garden!

Living in Las Terrenas means coexisting with nonhuman “residents” like birds that live in our own gardens.

Colorful, jumpy, fun, inspiring and most importantly, beneficial.

How many can you identify?

1 Antillean Mango (Anthracothorax dominicus) 11-12 cm. Resident*. Feeds mainly on nectar taken from a variety of plants with brightly colored, scented small flowers including heliconias and medicinal aloe. An avid pollinator. The male fiercely protects its territory.

2 Vervain Hummingbird (Mellisuga minima) 6 cm. Resident. Tiny: the world’s second smallest bird. More

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often heard than seen. Avid pollinator. Feeds mainly on nectar taken from a variety of plants with brightly colored, scented small flowers. The male is territorial.

3 Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) 48-56 cm. Resident. Usually found with cattle and catching small creatures (insects, spiders, frogs and earthworms) disturbed by these animals. This species also removes ticks from cattle.

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4 Bananaquit (Coereba flaveola) 10-11 cm. Resident. A small, colorful bird with a slender decurved bill. Often visits gardens and may become very tame.

Feeds on nectar, fruits and insects.

5 Hispaniolan Oriole (Icterus dominicensis) 20-22 cm. Endemic**. A very showy bird. Usually seen in family groups or sometimes in flocks of up to 50 individuals.

They feed on fruits, insects, flowers and nectar, often on the undersides of palm fronds.

6 Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas) 11-13 cm. Migrant***. A medium-sized and compact bird.

Common to abundant in dry scrubby growth, overgrown fields and shade coffee plantations. Also inhabits the borders of marshes and swampy meadows. Forages for insects and spiders on (or near) the ground.

8 Black-whiskered Vireo (Vireo altiloquus) 15-16.5 cm. Resident. Found in a wide variety of habitats.

Normally goes unnoticed except when singing a repetitive and monotonous song that seems to call Julián chi-ví. Feeds mainly on insects, but also eats fruits.

9 Green Heron (Butorides virescens) 40-48 cm. Resident. A small, dark heron. Commonly seen on the island’s wetlands. Usually solitary. Feeds on fish, insects and terrestrial vertebrates.

10 Common Ground-Dove (Columbina passerina) 15-18 cm. Resident. A tiny, stocky dove. The smallest columbid on the island. Lives mainly on the ground, but sometimes seeks refuge in trees. Feeds on seeds, but may eat some insects.

7 American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) 22-13 cm. Resident. A small falcon. Found in nearly all habitat types including suburbs, municipal parks and open fields.

Less numerous at high elevations. Feeds primarily on mice, grasshoppers and lizards. Also hunts small birds.

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11 Hispaniolan Woodpecker (Melanerpes striatus) 22-25 cm. Endemic. A conspicuous and very sociable bird.

Nests in colonies. Both sexes excavate cavities in palms (living or dead) which are then (re)used by other birds for their own nests (e.g. parakeets, parrots, swallows). Eats insects, fruits and seeds.

12 Caribbean Martin (Progne dominicensis) 20 cm. Resident. Gregarious. Usually present in environments where suitable dead trees with Hispaniolan Woodpecker holes are found (see #11). Hunts insects.

13 Palmchat (Dulus dominicus) 20 cm. Endemic. National bird of the DR. A conspicuous and gregarious bird. Nests are most often built in royal palms (Roystonea hispaniolana), yagrumo (Cecropia schreberiana) and even electric poles. Feeds mainly fruit.

15 White-winged Dove (Zenaida asiatica) 28-30 cm. Resident. Arboreal in forested areas. A ground dweller in urban areas. Eats fruits, seeds and grains. They supplement their diet with snail shells and bone fragments extracted from soil.

16 Hispaniolan Lizard-Cuckoo (Coccyzus longirostris) 41-46 cm. Endemic. Often seen jumping clumsily along trunks and branches chasing lizards and large insects.

17 American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) 11-13 cm. Migrant. An active and vibrant bird. Often found alone or in pairs. Strictly insectivorous. They startle prey by flaring their tail and moving their body from side to side.

14 Ashy-faced Owl (Tyto glaucops) 35 cm. Endemic. A nocturnal bird. Hunts in open areas. Prey includes mice, bats, lizards, frogs, small birds and insects.

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18 Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) 21-26 cm. Resident. A conspicuous bird. If you listen to an endless chain of 10-15 different birds singing outside your house, you may have a Mockingbird in your yard.

19 Gray Kingbird (Tyrannus dominicensis) 22-25 cm. Resident. A conspicuous bird. Usually seen on telephone lines and treetops. Feeds primarily on large insects captured in flight.

20 Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) 64-81 cm. Resident. A large bird. Feeds only on carrion.

Contributes to the disposal of waste from nature and large amounts of decaying flesh (e.g. responsible for cleaning up much of the road kill).

Text: Laura Perdomo

*Lives/found in other places other than Hispaniola (Dom. Rep. and Haiti). **Confined to Hispaniola and not found in any other place in the world. ***Breeds elsewhere and resides in Hispaniola during non-breeding season.

R= Breeding A= Adult J= Immature Male Female Color images from “A Guide to the Birds of the West Indies”.

Princeton University Press, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Wildlife Without Borders Program.

Sources: • International Migratory Bird Day. 2014.

Why birds matter. Interactive infographic (www.birdday.org) • Latta, S., C. Rimmer, A. Keith, J. Wiley, Raffaele H., K. McFarland and E. Fernández. 2006. Birds of the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Princeton University Press.

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Fotografías: Gianmaria Pisino

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Beachfront apartments of standing Swimming pool with swim up bar and Jacuzzi Air conditioning, equipped kitchen Free high-speed Wi-Fi

Conference room / Fitness, Jazz 24h Reception Daily breakfast buffet included

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directorio Intro Página 9 Boulangerie Française Av. Juan Pablo Duarte Plaza Taína, Las Terrenas Tel. (1) 809 876-4709 Bounty Bar Av. Juan Pablo Duarte Wily Guerder

M y S Constructora Inmobiliaria Página 18

Ocean Club Página 20

Decoración Página 40 Be Design Plaza Rosada, Las Terrenas (Samaná) Elsa: Cel. (1) 809 968-4036 Clarisse: Cel. (1) 829 589-9150 www.bedesign-lasterrenas.com

Casa Daniel Página 12

Residencia Esperanza, La Barbacoa, Las Terrenas, (Samaná) Guillaume Bouzonnet Cel. (1) 809 756-4114 relax.lasterrenas@hotmail.com

Medio Ambiente Página 42 Nicolas Brehm Tecmalab Tel. (1) 809 862-0485, Cel. (1) 809 817-7764 www.tecmalab.com nicolas.brehm@wanadoo.fr

Av. Juan Pablo Duarte, 169 Las Terrenas (Samaná) Tel. (1) 809 240-5227 Cel. (1) 809 883-3230 www.samanasol.com info@samanasol.com

Shiva’s Cave Página 26

Cel. (1) 809 884-9971 YaYa Natural Orgánico Av. Juan Pablo Duarte, 198 Las Terrenas Tel. (1) 809 240-9628 www.yaya.do

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Av. Juan Pablo Duarte, Plaza Rosada, Las Terrenas (Samaná) Tel. (1) 809 240-6003 facebook: supermercadolindo

Naturaleza Página 44 Laura Perdomo lauraperdomo@gmail.com

facebook: Yaya.Natural.Organico

Beach Garden Plaza Playa Max Real Estate Beach Garden Plaza, Suite 1 Las Terrenas (Samaná) Tel. (1) 829 645-7278 www.playamax.com

Supermercado Lindo Página 28

Página 10 Agua Check Reef Check Dominican Republic Prol. Fantino Falco n° 5, Piantini, Santo Domingo Tel/fax (1) 809 227-4409 www.reefcheckdr.org Facebook: reefcheckdr Ago & Filo Av. Juan Pablo Duarte Plaza Rosada, locales n° 4-5 Las Terrenas (Samaná) Cel. (1) 829 720-3401 Facebook: ago e filo Boutique Jack & Rose Av. Juan Pablo Duarte frente a El Paseo Tel. (1) 809 240-5284 Epyos Aligio Aparthotel & Spa Av. 27 de Febrero, Playa Popy Las Terrenas (Samaná) Tel. (1) 809 240-6898 Cel. (1) 809 982-8336

Las Galeras (Samaná) Tel. (1) 809 538-0228 Cel. (1) 829 858-8439 danielgotri@claro.net.do

Calle Luna, La Barbacoa, Las Terrenas (Samaná) www.monteplacido.com mountplacid@gmail.com

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