We had hiked up and down hill, through thick mud and sticky jungle, and eventually slithered down a bank to be greeted by crystal clear water running gaily over a small waterfall, creating a perfect - and very deep - pool.

We all jumped - for me, the fear was very real - the fifteen feet or so into the fresh water, which makes you sink fast if you are used to the buoyancy of salty water. And then we all sat around the edge of the pool and enjoyed the sunshine and the sparkles. Some got out to jump again. I sat and watched, playing with my feet in the current like a child.

The Dominican men are often broad-shouldered, strapping and disarmingly handsome. Our guide was no exception.

Original painting in oil on canvas measures 20cm x 20cm. The sides of the canvas are painted in magenta, which reflects on the inside of the white wooden frame. This painting is framed and ready to hang a little tropical magic and Dominican charm in a corner of your home.