“Let’s go for a quick dip in a lagoon,” my companion tempted me. What sounded like a welcome refreshment in the year-round tropical temperatures of the Dominican Republic initially turned out to be a real challenge. Before reaching the cool water, there was a 10-meter jump into the depths…

Laguna El Dudu is the name of this exciting and still largely unknown excursion destination on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, which requires a bit of courage before the refreshing fun begins. The surrounding 10-meter-high cliffs are, quite literally, the diving board into the lagoon. Anyone who – like me – has never jumped from a 10-meter platform before will definitely need to take a deep breath. Two to three minutes should be manageable, since the original plan was "just to go for a quick dip." Ultimately, however, the thrill of the new wins out, so after a loud scream and what felt like five seconds of flight, I splash into the water. For those seeking an extra adrenaline rush, there's also a zipline (already included in the lagoon entrance fee) that lets you fly over the water and then simply let yourself fall.

But Laguna El Dudu is also a highly recommended destination for those who are a little less adventurous. Firstly, there are steps leading down to the water, making it easy to enter the lagoon. Secondly, it's great fun to watch the other jumpers and zipliners. And if, as was the case on weekends, there are also a few Dominicans around, then lots of laughter and Caribbean joie de vivre are guaranteed.

A visit to Laguna El Dudu can be combined with two additional mini-activities. There's a small cave system in the area that can be explored. Additionally, a neighboring lagoon with shallower (waist-deep) water invites you to relax and even go cave diving.