American Assumptions and Swimming Pools
Here is a quick and rather humorous story about American assumptions and swimming pools in another country. Do not assume everything will be the same as it is back home.
The United States is the master at making rules and regulations to keep everyone safe. We have gotten used to these rules and they are part of our everyday experiences. They are so commonplace that we don’t even realize they are all around us.
During my stay in the Dominican Republic, I realized how many of these rules I had just accepted as right. As being a part of what was expected. As being “normal.”
I sometimes forgot I was in another country and they do things differently.
Not wrong, not stupid, not actually dangerous, but just different.
This oversight on my part caused me to have a few difficult times during my stay. They were manageable issues but could have been prevented completely if I knew more beforehand.
Don’t do what I did and make American assumptions thinking everything will be as you expect. Surprise! It’s not.
Choosing to Stay in the Colonial Zone
Staying in the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo, was an easy decision. Fantastic price, excellent ratings, and the central location of being right in the Colonial Zone made La Choza Guesthouse a wise decision. This was part of my 4 weeks traveling around the Dominican Republic.
I had already spend time in Sosua and Cabarete on the north side of the island. I was booked to spend a week in Santo Domingo. Then I had another week booked in Jarabacoa, up in the mountains of the country.
The Colonial Zone is a UNESCO Heritage site and is approximately one square mile. I thought the smaller size would make it easier for me to see more sights in the area. Restaurants, shopping, and the sights were all within a short walking distance. This was the part of Santo Domingo where Christopher Columbus helped set up the colonial government for Spain. Many of the historical buildings are there for you to experience and explore. It is a walkable area, but just be careful of the cobblestones and cars on the narrow streets.
La Choza Guesthouse
I researched hotels and guesthouses online using Booking.com. Then I found this hostel with both group rooms and private rooms. Their rating from past guests was exceptional. The fact that the majority of the entire building is on one floor was just an added bonus. Finally, no stairs to contend with for an entire week!
Having severe arthritis in one ankle makes stairs a brutal enemy. My previous stay on the north coast was an amazing place. But with the added burden of several flights of stairs to reach the studio I was renting, I planned my outings carefully. Once I was out for any reason, I tended to stay out for a while. It was also located quite a distance from the entrance, so lots of walking and stairs.
Staying in a hostel wasn’t a common occurrence for me, especially after my ankle injury. If you wish to save money on accommodations and do your research, you can definitely find less expensive hostels with different kinds of rooms. My first night was in a shared room with bunk beds. Luckily I was in the lower bunk. It was fine for the one night but then these older bones wanted my own room. I got one the second day and I was lucky enough that it came with a private bathroom too.
Don’t Make American Assumptions and Make Sure to Ask Questions
Note to self – things I must remember the next time I book a place to stay.
Ask about location and stairs. If you have limited mobility like me, ask about distances between your room and the entrance. How far to reach the outdoor areas or the pool?
Do not make one of the common American assumptions that everything will be as you expect it to be back home. Centrally located, easy access, or elevators. Nope. This isn’t your neighborhood and being aware of any accepted practices will make your visit much easier to handle. Being prepared is everything.
Make sure to ask the questions. Check out this blog post about Travel Accommodation Questions.
American Assumptions About This Swimming Pool
There was one thing I forgot to check before I got into the La Choza pool. And that would be a handle, a railing, or something to grab and ease yourself into or out of the water. Then even more importantly, how to get out of the pool when done swimming. This little pool had no such safety features. But the water was so blue and inviting that I forgot to check. I made an American assumption that the handle, or railing, would be there.
In this picture you can see the lighter colored stairs glimmering in the corner near the beach ball. Yet that first step is quite a way down. It was NOT a graceful sit down on the side of the pool.
More of a squishy splat.
But once I was down, I felt fine and slid right into the refreshing water. Enjoying the cool feeling against my warm skin felt like instant heaven. Ahhhhh.
I was in heaven for about 15 minutes or so. Then, once done paddling about, the realization of the lack of body removal assistance started to dawn on me. I managed to go up the steps and sit on the edge of the pool without much issue. But how in the world was I going to get up onto my feet?
Trying to Get Out of the Pool
I starting to look about and scope out the surrounding area. There’s a wall behind me and nothing to grab to help me get upright. The stones around the pool’s edge were also wet from my legs and feet making the surface a bit slippery to maneuver. To make matters much worse, there were two other guests and the hostel owners sitting at the table. They were in full view of any feeble attempts I might make at getting out of there.
So I did what any slightly overweight, unable to make an unobtrusive exit, and kind-of-enjoying-the-cool-breeze-on-my-wet-body woman would do.
I sat there determined to wait them out. They’d already eaten their late lunch and should be off to do something soon, right?
Wrong.
Thinking back, I could have just called out and asked for help. The hostel owner and other guests had seen me walking with difficulty. They most likely would have helped me without blinking an eye.
Unfortunately, my stubborn pride wouldn’t allow me to call for help. I sat there plotting and planning how to get up without making a spectacle of myself. If there’s one thing I have plenty of, it is patience when trying to not look foolish.
Waiting Out the Guests
I reclined against the wall for nearly forty minutes, occasionally making an attempt to either use the wall as support or push up into a squat position. Squats weren’t a strong point with my ankle, but I tried anyway. No go. Since I didn’t want to look suspicious just sitting there, I swam about a bit more to stay cool. I have to admit this wasn’t such a bad thing when I was splashing in the water.
They eventually cleared away their dishes and left the area, and only one guest was left sitting at the table. She wasn’t facing me or the pool area and seemed to be engrossed in her work. Her seat was the furthest one on the right-hand side. I decided this was the time to make my move. It was now or never.
I’m Finally Getting Out of the Pool
With a very ungraceful scooch, I moved off the wet stones onto the patch of grass and dirt next to me. Not really moved, but more like rolled on my wet butt. It was a much firmer base. I maneuvered onto my knee and with my hiney in the air, managed to get to my hands and feet, and then standing. I may not be able to do squats, but at least I’m flexible enough to manage getting both hands firmly on the grass and pushing upright.
Yippee! I could now leave the premises and wash the dirt from my legs and feet. My towel helped brush off some of the evidence of my grassy roll and covered my dirty backside as I walked by. Thank goodness she never looked up from her computer! She would have seen a very large, bright blue round bottom trying to escape the pool area.
Making American Assumptions When Traveling
Basing safety standards on your American assumptions is something you have to pay close attention to while traveling. This was not the first swimming pool in the Dominican Republic without safety railings or something to grip as you entered or exited the pool. The first studio I rented had a gorgeous small pool that was always empty. But it also had no railings to assist you up the steps and out of the pool. The pool was shallower and the raised lip on the edge of the pool provided something to grab onto as I stepped out of the water.
The American over-protectiveness we are used to back home doesn’t exist as much here, much to my chagrin. People simply expect you to use more common sense, something I forgot about. My common sense isn’t lost, but wasn’t being used much at the time. I just need to thoroughly check out the situation before getting into the water next time. Then more importantly, I must make sure I can get back out. Being prepared is everything.
Most people would have no difficulties at all enjoying the pool and then removing themselves from the water with ease. With my ankle injury and occasional arthritis flare ups, I just have to be a wee bit more careful about how to get in, and then out, of swimming pools worldwide. I’m now on notice!
If you’d like to read more about my adventures in the Dominican Republic, check out these blog posts.
FAQs About Santo Domingo and Hostels
What is the weather like in Santo Domingo?
Santo Domingo has a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 75°F (24°C) in the winter months to 85°F (29°C) in the summer. It is generally humid, and the rainy season runs from May to November.
What are the must-visit attractions in Santo Domingo?
Some popular attractions in Santo Domingo include the Colonial Zone (Zona Colonial), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alcázar de Colón (Columbus Alcazar), the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, the National Palace, and the Malecón waterfront promenade.
Is Santo Domingo safe for tourists?
Like any major city, it is important to take precautions while traveling in Santo Domingo. Exercise that common sense, avoid isolated areas at night, and be mindful of your belongings. It is advisable to use reputable transportation services and stay in well-known areas. Ask your hosts for safety suggestions.
What are the advantages of staying in a hostel?
Staying in a hostel can be more affordable compared to hotels, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. Hostels often provide a communal environment that encourages social interaction, allowing guests to meet fellow travelers from around the world. They may also offer amenities such as free Wi-Fi, organized activities, and helpful staff who can provide local recommendations.
Are hostels only for young travelers?
While hostels have traditionally been associated with younger travelers, they are increasingly catering to a broader range of age groups. Many hostels offer private rooms in addition to dormitory-style accommodations, which can be suitable for families, couples, or older travelers who prefer more privacy while still enjoying the social aspects of a hostel. This was perfect for me.
Be Aware of Safety Standards
Have you ever experienced safety standards that are different to what you are used to? How did you deal with it? Did it make you feel uncomfortable?
Continue traveling and experiencing places first hand but pay attention to your surroundings and be careful.
I often wonder if our American assumptions about safety has done more damage than good. People lose their common sense skills if they have no need to use them to protect themselves. And even with safety features in place, many people still ignore them and put themselves, and others, in danger. Where does the responsibility for other people’s bad decisions lie? I believe it is with the person making the decision.
Learn more about Santo Domingo and the Dominican Republic before you travel. I greatly enjoyed my 4 weeks exploring parts of the country and need to return to cover a few more areas. With beautiful scenery and kind-hearted people, it is definitely a place to explore and enjoy.