The Secret Life of Casa Marina Reef & Beach Resort: A Thrilling Backdrop for My Spy Thriller Novel

 

Sun, Sea, and Espionage: The Casa Marina Reef & Beach Resort Inspired Me to Write My Spy Thriller Novel

     Nestled in the heart of Sosua, Dominican Republic, lies the stunning Casa Marina Reef & Beach Resort, a true tropical oasis that calls out to travelers far and wide. During my stay there, I was so captivated by the resort's breathtaking beauty that I decided to incorporate it into scenes from my MISSION OF VENGEANCE spy thriller novel. Its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and verdant greenery will turn you on, too! A great destination for you to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

     The resort boasts a stunning beachfront location with two private beaches lined with a canopy of palm trees. I plotted half my novel while lying in a hammock stretched between two coconut palms. It was the perfect spot for me to relax and soak up the sun, in-between snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing.

     I enjoyed strolling through the narrow paths lined with vibrant flowers and tropical plants on my way to the swim-up bar, which is the resort's most picturesque swimming pool, surrounded by swaying palm trees and sun loungers. There, you paddle up to the bar and order their favorite drinks. Hint: order their classic piña colada or refreshing mojito- the skilled bartenders concoct them well. Ice-cold beer is available, too.

     The swim-up bar is the perfect spot for socializing and meeting new people. I met locals there who gave me the lowdown on the local political issues, which I embedded in the spy thriller plot. It’s pleasurable to cool off in the pool without having to leave the water to grab a drink.

     When it comes to dining, the Casa Marina Reef & Beach Resort has several restaurants and bars to choose from. There's something for everyone, ranging from casual beachfront dining to more formal restaurants. I dined casual, and became addicted to the authentic Dominican dishes, like sancocho, a hearty stew made with various meats, vegetables, and spices. It is the Dominican Republic's national dish, and they serve it with rice and plantains.

     I also liked the unique taste of a dish called mofongo, which is made from mashed plantains and typically served with a variety of meats or seafood. The plantains are mashed with garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings, giving it a rich and savory flavor that is hard to resist.

     I sometimes ate dinner at a thatched roof outside bar (Can’t recall the name), and ordered another local Dominican dish called arroz con pollo. It was an incredibly flavorful chicken and rice dish. The outside bar also served a neat snack called chicharrones, which are crispy fried pork rinds.

     In addition to traditional Dominican dishes, the resort's restaurants also offer a range of international favorites, including Italian, Asian, and American cuisine. You can enjoy everything from fresh seafood to gourmet pizzas, all served in a beautiful setting with stunning views of the ocean.

     Hint: If you want a neat place to dine outside the resort, I highly recommend Sosua’s Waterfront Restaurant. I was so taken by this place that I included it in my spy thriller plot. You’ll love the ocean view at the Waterfront.

     Overall, the dining experience at the Casa Marina Reef & Beach Resort was another highlight of my stay there and, yes, I mention the food in my MISSION OF VENGEANCE spy thriller.

     For those looking for a night out, mosey down to Calle Pedro Clisante to the main drag of nightclubs and major nightlife happenings in downtown Sosua. The street is closed off from 6pm to 6am to cars, but everything is open, and the restaurants and bars set up tables on the street.

     If you want nightlife, you can spend the nights in Sosua on this strip doing nothing but cruising the bars. The shops stay open at night, too, and each has its own unique vibe. I wrote several scenes that took place inside the Club 59 Nightclub on the Calle Pedro Clisante strip, one where CIA spymaster Corey Pearson shot a Russian assassin in Club 59’s bathroom. It’s a cool nightclub... just don’t go into its bathroom. Just kidding, I think.

     But beyond the fun and relaxation, there's a dark past lurking in the shadows of the resort. In my spy thriller novel MISSION OF VENGEANCE, the resort is the site of a brutal murder of an American family. The crime scene report tells a chilling story, with the parents tied to chairs and the children slain on the bed. It's a haunting reminder that even paradise has its dark secrets.

     But my spy thriller is purely fictional! You’ll find no danger as you venture down to the Casa Marina Reef & Beach Resort and surround yourself with its natural beauty and stunning views. You’ll feel the sand between your toes as you stroll along the pristine beaches, listen to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore, and bask in the warm sunshine. And while the events of the spy thriller novel may have taken place in this location, I must remind you again that they are purely fictional.

     In reality, the resort is a safe and fun destination for you. The staff is welcoming and accommodating, the food is delicious, and the activities are endless. You can spend your days lounging by the pool, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or exploring the local culture and history. And at night, you can unwind with a refreshing cocktail and live music.

     So don't let the dark shadows of a CIA spymaster’s experience deter you from experiencing the beauty and allure of the Casa Marina Reef & Beach Resort. Come see for yourself what makes this destination so special and create your own unforgettable memories. 

Robert Morton is a member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO) and enjoys writing about the U.S. Intelligence Community. He authors the Corey Pearson- CIA Spymaster series. Check out his latest spy thrillers: MISSION OF VENGEANCE.