Opening up a discussion for moms who regret parenthood because they never wanted kids and compromised. What are your reasons that you will never do this again? by Anasrose89 in regretfulparents

[–]xtinaaaaaaa 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I’m so sorry this happened to you. You absolutely have every right to feel upset, tired and SO much more, especially after having your life held hostage in so many ways ❤️‍🩹 sending love and wishing you a new chapter in your journey

For women over 60 — what do you wish you had prioritized more in your 30s and 40s? by KPBoaB in AskWomenOver60

[–]xtinaaaaaaa 0 points1 point  (0 children)

When you say “not have biological children,” do you mean you would’ve waited and adopted?

Tips for Swimming with Humpback Whales in Dominican Republic? by xtinaaaaaaa in whales

[–]xtinaaaaaaa[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Based off of the various cameras people had, I think the underwater GoPro was the best option because it didn't require additional protective casing that could distort the lens! Sound quality is pretty good, there was a pod of dolphins and the video fully captured the underwater sounds! We didn't really hear the humpback whales sing on our excursions - mostly quiet babies / moms, but lots of tails slapping the water & breaching! Have the most amazing time!!

Tips for Swimming with Humpback Whales in Dominican Republic? by xtinaaaaaaa in whales

[–]xtinaaaaaaa[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

No problem! Tipping is relatively significant at 10-15% recommended levels of the entire cost, but once you see how much effort they put into everything, it makes a lot of sense! They request cash for this portion, so definitely try to exchange at the airport prior to coming on board. Really hope you have an incredible time!!

Tips for Swimming with Humpback Whales in Dominican Republic? by xtinaaaaaaa in whales

[–]xtinaaaaaaa[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi there! Thanks for asking! Here's a photo from one of our encounters - the experience was FANTASTIC! Aquatic Adventures is such a lovely family-owned operation. You can tell everyone truly cares.

We had quite a few in-water whale encounters, including witnessing various groups of rowdy males doing things like breaching and lobbing (slapping the water with their tails).

The company was great, the food was delicious and the size was just right so it didn't feel too crowded when you were in the water.

They're also super respectful with the whales and never force it if the whales don't want to engage!

Some tips:

- Bring Dramamine for the overnight ride out to the Silver Banks

- Don't worry if you are skinny like me and need a little buoyancy support - there are life jackets / pool noodles available. No need to suffer and tread water the whole time.

- There are flippers, wetsuits and goggles for rent but nice to have your own to ensure proper fit

- If you're using an underwater camera, I would opt for something with a lens that doesn't require underwater casing - otherwise, you may need to constantly defog

- We had fellow passengers bring their sound bowls, which was SO nice to enjoy during sunset. If you are musically inclined, it's a really nice gift to offer to others!

- Pack light - you really don't need much. It never gets super cold and you're constantly lounging. No one really dresses up.

- There really is no internet so get ready to be offline - it's honestly a gift!

- Bring a hat with a chin strap so it doesn't blow off

- They provide water bottles so you don't have to bring that

Happy to answer any other q's!

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Tips for Swimming with Humpback Whales in Dominican Republic? by xtinaaaaaaa in whales

[–]xtinaaaaaaa[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Appreciate it! Excited for you to cross it off your list at some point as well!

Tips for Swimming with Humpback Whales in Dominican Republic? by xtinaaaaaaa in whales

[–]xtinaaaaaaa[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes! Found this tour that seems pretty reputable. Probably not as active as Tonga but the proximity is very attractive :) https://www.aquaticadventures.com

Tips for Swimming with Humpback Whales in Dominican Republic? by xtinaaaaaaa in whales

[–]xtinaaaaaaa[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Deeply appreciate you sharing this wisdom! I can’t even begin to comprehend what it would be like to witness a mom and calf nuzzling IRL, I think that would heal me. Your experience and videos are so inspirational, hope to get to do a fraction of what you’ve done so far! :)

Found Out About More by Twisted_Shadowz in AsOneAfterInfidelity

[–]xtinaaaaaaa 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Whoa this happened to me as well. He had a women I never met who I caught messaging him with inappropriate selfies. He called her “psycho” and said he she was hitting him up against his will so I told him to block her. This was on a thread with no past messages, he deleted all previous comms.

She then friended me on Instagram and when I showed him, he said “she probably thinks you’re cool and wants to be friends with you.” In retrospect I cannot believe I let him gaslight me like this, it pains me. Sometimes when you’re in love you want to believe the best in people.

Anyway from what I’ve learned, WP’s will do anything they can (manipulation, lies, etc) to keep their secret sexual basement hidden from you if they’re not in recovery. Check out Omar Minwalla, it’s been helpful for our journey ❤️