W9XY/HI7

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
 - October 2005 -

The view from our hotel, looking down on the pool.  This is an all-inclusive resort,
meaning there are no charges for whatever you eat or drink.  This place has the largest
pool area in the Caribbean!  It's actually kind of a "lazy river", but doesn't flow.

Here I am operating.  I didn't look happy because the Buddipole didn't tune
very well on the balcony.  After about 350 Q's, I gave up half way through the trip and
spent the rest of my time on the beach or in the restaurants.  I was much happier there!

The beautiful beach in front of the Sunscape Resort.  Amazing!

Here I'm relaxing with a lounge float in the water.

And once again I try (unsuccessfully) to tune the antenna.

The Icom IC706MKIIG and Astron Power supply.  I used paper
logging and took my trusty old DX Edge so there was no need to
carry a laptop along.  Also you can see the Paddlette micro key which
works extremely well.  There is a small fan from an old computer on
top of the rig to help cool the equipment.  It was a good idea in the tropical heat!

Our friends Julia and Frank from Scuba Caribe.  The first time
we met Frank was in 2003 on a previous trip (without a rig).  He is a dive guide
and is eager to make sure you enjoy your stay in the Domincan.  We kept in touch
with him and were able to visit with him again on this trip many times.  He speaks only a few
words of English but understands my little Spanish and he is always happy and
smiling.  Julia has also remained a friend and we speak on the telephone
from time to time.  She speaks fluent English, and it is a pleasure to know her,
and her "familia" as well.  If you get to an Iberostar or Secrets Resort, look them up
via Scuba Caribe and tell them you know us!