<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> In a message dated 22/06/00 01:00:45 GMT Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes: << We are going on a Missions trip to the Dominican Republic for eight days. Does anyone have any experiences to share? I am taking rice cakes, corn tortillas, peanut butter and nut thins. I am hoping they have fresh veggies, fruit and meat to buy. We will be in the northern section. Thanks for any info. Diane Diane Donald, Technology Consultant Clemson University Graduate School Clemson, SC 29634-5713 >> Hello. The Dominican Republic has plenty of fresh food there. I used to take trips there when I lived in next door Puerto Rico. Yes, you can buy fresh, fruit, meat and veggies, but there should be a number of cooked dishes open to you, too. One thing that is very tasty and safe is rice and beans and chicken which is a common staple there as it is in Puerto Rico. Just ask for Arroz Con Habichuelas (also Arroz Con Frijoles) and Pollo Frito. Another delicious thing is fried plantains. When they are still green and fried, they are covered in light garlic or given a dipping sauce then, they are called Tostones. But when they are left to ripen they become sweet and are deep fried, they are called Amarillos. Amarillos are a wonderful side dish...... I hope this helps. CherylSky (Middlesex, England)