02 Apr 2025
Due to procrastinating we were unable to book Puerto Plata City Tour through Holland America Excursions for April 1 so we turned to Trip Advisor (Viator) and booked the same at $25 less each which was operated by Edwin Transfers Tours. Instructions included a map which shows Amber Cove Excursions only 500' from the cruise ship pier however as the instructions state it's an additional 2000' or 10-12 minute walk outside Amber Cove properties on Calle 5 (road). Instructions provided were to be there by 45 minutes after ship disembarking. (8:45) I was certain we had missed our excursion but at 9:00 at the vehicle pullover was tour guide Francisco of Edwin Tours along with our dedicated driver hombrecito. We enjoyed 4 hours of learning much of the history, culture, and received first class attention and afforded safety and security with Francisco always nearby and driver hombrecito ready to bring the minivan to us. From the Macorix house of Rum, to Chocolate Factory, to Umbrella Street, to the Pink House, to a Catholic Church tour, to Fifi Jewelry, to cigar making, to Independence Park, to Fort San Felipe and a side trip to a small market. This was the best guided tour in my lifetime mostly thanks to Francisco and to Edwin who owns Edwin Transfers Tours.
Jim and Debbie AZ