Pack Rat: Dominican Odds and Ends

After I published my first post about packing for the Dominican Republic, I realized that I left out some of the things that helped me really enjoy this vacation.

I brought two cameras: my trusty Pentax Optio RZ-18 and my new Pentax Optio WG-1 Rugged Waterproof Digital Camera.  Stephen and I used to have a waterproof Kodak, but it bit the dust on our last snorkeling vacation.  I got the Pentax Optio WG-1 because I've been so satisfied with the photo quality of the Pentax Optio RZ-18 and, with a 33-foot rating, you can take the WG-1 deeper in the water than most waterproof cameras.  I love a waterproof camera for beach vacations.  I took photos in the pool, walking along the beach, and, of course, while snorkeling.  Pentax doesn't have as much name recognition as Canon or Nikon, but the cost is lower too.  I am very happy with both of my Pentax cameras.

I took this photo while treading water, up to my neck in the ocean.

I didn't worry about dropping the Pentax WG-1 in the sand

You just can't take photos like this without a waterproof camera
(or an often-expensive housing).

The remote compatibility allowed me to be in photos too!

I usually have a problem with breaking out on vacations like this, but this time I planned ahead to combat the effects of sweat and sunscreen.  I brought Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes to use at the end of the day.  I like the towelettes because I was tired at the end of the day, and I didn't feel like taking the time to wash my face.  I also used my skin secret weapon: Shea Moisture African Black Soap.  I've used this for the past month couple months, and it has made a huge difference in my skin.  I had given up on acne products because they leave my skin dry and irritated and often stain my towels and clothes.  My skin is sensitive, so I have to be very careful with what I use.  This soap smells nice, is non-irritating, and has made a big difference in my acne.  I got mine at Target, and I will keep using it as long as I can find it.

Snorkeling equipment is worth its space
in the luggage.

Stephen and I have done quite a bit of snorkeling together, and a group of our friends purchased a set of fins and masks as a wedding present.  Having our own equipment is great because it means we can go out on our own without having to find a tour group and, whether we're with a group or not, we know who has been sucking on these snorkels.  Rental equipment is often uncomfortable and not necessarily well-maintained, so, if you love the ocean, I highly recommend bringing your own equipment.  You can find it online at reasonable prices.

I also used a couple of Covergirl products that worked really well. CoverGirl LashBlast Waterproof Mascara and Lineblast 24 Hour Eyeliner.  I am vain, and I just feel prettier when I'm wearing a little masacara.  Both of these products held up to a lot of abuse.  I wore them in the pool.  I wore them in the ocean.  I wore them walking around all over in 90 degree heat.  I never had a Tammy Faye Baker moment.

* This post contains affiliate links... a whole bunch of them... but they are all for products that I use and love.