I want to live in a villa 6 months out of a year. Do you know of any great areas? I want to be close to the beach and the best medical facilities. I want to airbnb the villa the months I am not there.
One of my favorite things about DR when I was growing up there was the power outages. My grandmother would light candles and everyone would sit around and talk all night while drinking coffee. When the power came back, the entire neighborhood would clap and rejoice. Good times.
@@BeThrifty2 I have heard that from Dominicans here in the US too!:) Wonderful memories am sure. We had the same thing happen sometimes when I was growing up in West Africa (Cote d’Ivoire).
Your recap was spot on. A product of you having spent so much time learning the country from every corner of the island. I can't disagree with or rebut your assessment.
I am from Barbados and would like to visit. This is a very realistic analysis of the DR...thank you. I tried listening to some other YT channels, mostly American males looking for you know what, and you dont get a good feel for the Island. Again thank you!
Shout out from CHI-TOWN CHICAGO, IL, USA! Thanks for sharing this highly informative and enlightening podcast! I read your Dominican Guide book about three years ago! AMEN-ASE!
I am from DR and also agree with everything you said in this video. I hope your father gets better and soon you can come back to my beautiful country, nice people are always welcome . GOD, HOMELAND AND LIBERTY DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 🇩🇴♥️🇺🇸
Excellent content and analysis! Bavaro feels like I never left the States. No power outages.. Driving.. although a bit aggressive is no different than NYC, DC, or LA. I rented an apartment (local neighborhood) and a car, and it was amazing. The airports are very modern and convenient. I bought a watermelon, and it was sweet and full of seeds 😊
I enjoyed your review and honest opinions about the DR. I thought about moving to the DR and changed my mind because of the accidents and customer service issues. I dealt with this in Portugal, and I know my tolerance levels.
You are so spot on with the con’s. I am trying to move back to DR and I am terrified about the driving and the customer service, it really really sucks!
I lived in Santo Domingo for 3 years full time and currently live there for part of the year. This is a great overall summary of the Dominican Republic. Great job! Subscribed!
Great recap. I love it there. I travel there about 4 times a year. So far Santo Domingo is my favorite but I’ve had the pleasure of traveling to various campos, Puerto Plata, Santiago, and Samana and a few other places. I wish I had your job 😂 I pray that I can move there one day. I call this place for some of the things that you’ve stated here
Thank you!! And I hear you:-) My job is cool but it's definitely got its down sides too, especially now we have moved back to the US (we moved to be closer to my dad who isn't well). Maybe there's a remote online job or business you can set up!
I really liked you opinion traveling throughout D.R. As an IT instructor I work virtually and seriously looking to work outside the U.S. My monthly income around $8,500 and my house in New York can generate an additional income of $6,300 when its rented. I'm also thinking of Portugal as well. Bye for now.
Very good video. I just returned from the DR yesterday (my fifth time there). As to your point about the Dominican service industry, I wouldn’t say that the lack of service is due to the low pay, but instead, there is very often an arrogance that many Dominicans have BECAUSE they have a job. I’ve discussed this with many Dominicans and they agree completely. Yes, the Dominican people are generally more friendly than here in the US, but there is an arrogance from those who work entry level jobs.
#11: It's been a while since I lasted Visited DR. I remember when I was renting a car and was astounded by I recall the deductible for the insurance was so high. As soon as I had gotten on the road, I realized why. It was a miracle I didn't get into an accident. People were passing me on the left and on the right. It was difficult to know how many lanes there were. I had come from another extremely small Caribbean Island. Flying into the DR, it looked like a continent relatively speaking. I agree regarding customer service. The concept of "The customers are always right" might be a stateside concept but it NOT necessarily the norm in many parts of the Caribbean. You'd find - especially in the former British colonies in the Caribbean - the legacy of British classicism is still very strong.
Thank you, Lily. I've never visited DR, but that didn't prevent me from jumping in feet-first by purchasing a villa in Punta Cana. I wholeheartedly depend on videos such as yours to prepare me for this transition. I will be the first to admit that I'm in violation of a few recommendations you've mentioned. I know zero Spanish (well except for the bad words) and I'm very impatient. But that's ok. I'm going down as an expat and have the rest of my life to learn those things. I've been sold on the pros that you've mentioned for some years now. Between them and this insane infatuation I have for Hispanic culture, DR was a no-brainer for me. I must say, this new tax proposal affecting the Confotur Law and property tax exemption is forcing me to shift some decisions around. I'm not too happy about that, but it's still a fraction of what I would pay in Miami. Thanks again.
Wow that's brave but If you go in with this open mind that you mention then you'll be fine and learn to adapt. As for the tax proposal, it's currently off the table. We'll see if some other proposal is introduced down the line. Either way you're right, taxes are still not as expensive as the US... not yet anyway!
@@arthurkingii2476 I can't wait to buy a villa. Some people suggested an apartment but I'm terrified of apartments because I knew of a family who couldn't esacqpe a burning building in the states. I wonder how they handle fires in the DR.
17:01 just moved permanently in Santo Domingo este. I don't know if they see me as an American, but they provide good service for me. Whatever I buy, they take the items out and make sure they're working. Something that's rare in America. I did have one bad experience while being there one restaurant took hours to bring our food got up and headed to the door. They try to explain but we left to go to another restaurant. It is laid back my wife from Santo Domingo and her family. They treat me good. My pension goes far here. My apartment utilities and food for the month $607 in America almost $3,000. Thank you for the video
Yes it is common practice to take stuff out of the box to make sure it is oK - that's because stores don't do refunds in the DR! Dominicans are nice to foreigners generally and accepting of foreign spouses. And definitely agree on the money going farther, I used to save so much faster when I was there!
Santo Domingo is probably my favorite city in the Caribbean. For the same reasons you mentioned. Also, there's a VA medical center if you are a service connected veteran. I'm looking for a vacation apartment there now.
Wow Lily, amazing reflection. I am from the Dominican Diaspora myself. You were so on point with the way you tell about issues like classism (due to the structural racism that keeps poor the 90% of the population which is Black), the issue of tourism (a new type of colonialism), and many other things such as the learning we can get from the Caribbean people about living and enjoy this life, even under precarious conditions, because we only have one. I cherish that about my people as well. Great video. Thank you!
Thank you so much for watching and for chiming in with your perspective, I really appreciate it! Agree with everything you said as well. And yes, agree that tourism in the Caribbean is certainly a different type of colonialism in many ways and in most places.
I agree with you on almost every point, except variety of foods. I mean the food scene can’t be compared to NYC but it’s very comparable to Miami’s. Also, I 100% agree with the classism is DR, which a love of people confuse with racism. A lot of people especially from the US, African Americans talk about DR being racist. They have never been but love to assure the country is racist. It’s mind boggling to me. On a other note, I think the customer service really sucks in DR and the main reason is lack of training. In the US there is a culture of “the customer is always right”. I feel businesses in DR need to step up their training in customer service. Thank you for your video
Hi - thank you this was a nice, honest review. We plan to spend more time (snow birding) in the DR. We love the beaches and weather of the north coast. Especially Las Terrenas. Nothing like Playa Ballenas & adjacent beaches. Drawback is its lack of ability to grocery shop and lack of infrastructure in a way. Last spring we rented a car & zig zagged across the country. Fantastic journey! Looking forward to more content! Thank you
@@larapfeffer2845 Thanks so much for sharing! Aaah I love those times of exploring the country and checking out different areas! In a sense what you describe about LT is exactly what’s true: there are pros and cons to every corner of DR and you just have to decide what you’re good with!
I've been living in the dominican repbulic for 18 months now I've lived in the big city and outside of it! I agree with her ! Great video! and I LOVE it here. I've learned most of their spanish without any classes, just being around people and friends asking questions). My family is from St. Vincent and the Grendines. I was born in new york and raised in the south USA (Atlanta, GA). Honestly, it's sad but classism is a world "issue" not a DR issue if you ask me. Unfortunately at this point, it's something I'm accustomed too. I haven't really seen that it is any more prevalent here in DR than it is anywhere else. So, if you're used to the way the world is pretty much (at least the western world) it's not something that should deter you in my opinion. Just be the change you want to see! I make pretty good money compared to even the average american, and I still treat everyone with respect, and receive respect from everyone as far as I know.
It really is! We have a debate with my husband on this where I say Santo Domingo is worse than Santiago for this, and he says it's the reverse. What do you think?
Nice video. Like many others, I came across your channel due to my interest in moving to the RD. You touched on a couple of key considerations for me, which are affordability and centrally located. I want an affordable place that cuts down on flight time to other locations I like and want to travel to. I skimmed over your video list, and I see several that I need to binge watch. You have a new subscriber here😊
Yay welcome! :-) Yeah DR is a good base for sure; as long as you can also skip town when you need a break and that's why having access to a lot of flight routes is good, lol.
Hi Lily! Con #4 is such a travesty because when you're in a hotel people will bend over backwards to serve you and make sure you get what ever you need, but once you get to SD it seems like it's the other way around where you're the one bending over to get their attention 😂😂
@@XloMotion Hi there!! That is true 😂😂 there’s a rude awakening for those who don’t know this is how it goes in real life day to day. Not every time everywhere but generally common!
Hi I must have met you somewhere because we have been to similar places in the DR. Villar Hermanos in Gazcue is my favorite. All that you say is true. I have been living here for years. Regardless of various cons, it is a wonderful place to be. The most common word use here is amor. If you are a romantic like myself then you must know the heart of the DR - mi amor.
I miss Villar Hermanos!! Lol, yes, every day it's "mi amor" - and actually it gets you better customer service when you use it, as you know. DR has its issues but having lived it first hand, I still will defend it to the end !!
@@elozano1063 Really, wow. That was not my experience when I was there. I’m so glad it has improved. Definitely something people want to ask about generally.
You're video was very informative. I agree with everything you say. I do not if the current proposed tax laws will pass, if they do then it's going to be harder to live in DR for Dominicans and others. This is a beautiful country.
Thank you! Somehow I missed seeing your message. Yes exactly - I was actually studying the proposed tax laws this week and was tempted to do a video on that next and what it might mean long term! Maybe I'll do it! Let's hope they pass a more moderate version... but yeah it's about to change the dynamic if they push it through.
When discussing education you mentioned in general (over all) the education in Dominican Republic is low or weak - my question is: in comparison to which other educational system? The reason I ask is because when I was a child I studied in the Dominican Republic and when I returned to NY I was super advanced compared to other children. I remember in my NY class after my return the kids were on addition and subtraction while I was on multiplication and division.
Very accurate observation. I plan to one day retire there, but my one biggest hesitation in making it a permanent home, is the lack of service as you described. I hate American bureaucracy as it is, but D.R. takes it to a whole 'nother level 😡
Great presentation very informative. I'm a senior citizen and want to retire in the Dominican Republic. What city or area have you found that is peaceful and some what quiet where I could obtain wired internet? I can afford pretty much any area. Thanks
Hi Michael! Thanks for watching. That's a really good question. I love peaceful areas because I am a writer, so I was always looking for a quiet apartment with decent wifi but close to some action. So I can suggest a few, starting with Jarabacoa, just outside of the downtown area, as well as parts of the Colonial City that are tucked a street or two from the Calle Conde, and I would also say places like Bayahibe if you like beach towns -- as long as you're not on the Main Street. It is probably the safest place in the DR. There are a lot of options but I think this is a great topic so I'm going to do a separate video on it!! With more detail on why each works, wifi situation, and such. Hope this helps for now!
@@szzs2593 I do love Constanza but more for a break/long weekend...it is a bit too remote for me but maybe it could be an option. Not sure how fast the wifi is but worth asking
Thank you for this info. Where can I get that book you wrote? I’ve been thinking about moving back to the DR when I retire. I’ve already started to look for land to build my house on.
@@BeThrifty2 Thanks for watching! I’ll link to my travel guidebook in the comments in a few - it’s from 2019 but the background info on each region is still applicable for the most part. How’s the land search going?! We want to buy too but undecided on which province.
Great video thanks for sharing! ...I'll be traveling solo there soon and I'm currently making last minute travel plans to go...Finding this video and the random car with the D.R. flag I parked in front of (I'm in the Carolinas!) is apparently God's green light to go!...Yet any safe recommendations for a solo woman seeking peace, quiet, the beach, and good food (minus the heavy tourist crowds!)? I'm trying to pick the perfect area because I also plan to tour condos for future purchase (vacation home/Air BnB rental) while there...If Punta Cana is the 'Miami' of the island, I guess I'm looking for a Charleston or Savannah Georgia maybe!?? Lol, apparently, this will be my first trip!
@@mtriple9000 Ha! Traffic is rough for sure. I’ve never liked Santiago for some reason - and my second least fave is Cabarete. What do you love about DR most?
100% Correct in all your points. Very important what you mentioned about the service industry here in the DR. A smile and a please will get your issue resolved at both the private or government sectors. You try to play Karen here, and you will encounter Karen meeting Karen in her own territory. Politeness goes a long way, Dominicans are not going to be intimidated because you threatened them with calling their manager. I can assure you that they will take losing their jobs over taking your crap 1000 times out of a 1000.
@@RolandStLuce thank you! That’s a great question lol. My husband and I go back and forth on that. It would be a good spot for a second home and then eventually we can retire there. So yeah haven’t ruled it out completely. Just not ready to go back for a while lol.
My wife and I visit 3 times yearly. We’ve been thinking about a place there for us to enjoy. Is there an area that is mainly country with modern features? We both speak Spanish. We enjoy the country side but don’t want to be near the hatian border. We’ve thought about Puerto Plata. Your thoughts?
Hey Manny! Puerto Plata province is huge but yes there are options for staying outside the city center but staying close to it. Not a huge fan of the North Coast to live but many expats/retirees are into it. Just depends what vibe you like. For me I love Jarabacoa (mountains)- 2 hours north of Santo Domingo - but also parts of the Samana Peninsula (beach) could work for what you describe, like Las Terrenas if you stay just outside of the downtown I'm doing a next video on a few places I recommend! Again depends on activities you are interested in.
Hmm I did notice some passport bros (or what were Passport Bro-looking dudes, lol) - in the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, and also on the North coast of course in Sosua, also Boca Chica area. They do seem to stick to those same touristy areas....!
You said there were a lot of misconceptions about the Dominican Republic how is that possible when it’s the most visited tourism attraction in the Caribbean at least not the western hemisphere millions of Americans, Europeans and Canadians , because they love it. The worst thing about it to me is the traffic or driving conditions is very dangerous.
I live here from april 2024 San pedro de macoris Because is cheaper 😂🎉❤ I dont need expensive gated comunity or Sky condo with hoa 300or more Monthly...
Nice! Very recent. I've definitely heard SPM is cheap but always wondered if it was quiet enough cause traffic can be a bit much there, at least when I went. :). How do you get around, do you drive?
@@tourismlens My wife drive, You can go around using ring road if you don't like trafic city have 3 enterance Best comunitys are kenedy,maestros or hazim But are not cheap.. I live in one poor because is quién excepto sunday saturday, And no hoa;) I can leave our home year and not pay nothing. I feel 100%safe in my hood
Welcome to DR again! We've been mistreated! This is a land of god! Most people here are friendly and open. If you compare us to Haiti. That's our main reason. Culture.!
I disagree with the educational piece, customer service yes, I agree, they are too laid back and don't understand urgency. Driving it's only until you learn the roads and the system. I drove in the capital without no problem.
Yeah, as far as driving. It is crazy, but there's a silent system to the chaos. I definitely don't experience car accidents here as often as I did living in cities like Altanta, or even traveling to Houston or Dallas. Especially talking about fatal accidents. I think some people just fear the chaos itself & that scares them. But I learned to drive in New york city lol, also have driven in multiple states & carribean/other countries. So my experience might be biased!
Thinking of moving to DR and have questions? Drop them here!
I want to live in a villa 6 months out of a year. Do you know of any great areas? I want to be close to the beach and the best medical facilities. I want to airbnb the villa the months I am not there.
@@young57734 That would be the Punta Cana and Bavaro area for those two criteria (close to beach + best private medical facilities)
Yes! That’s exactly what I said too and people came at me about Santiago and SDQ lol. Oh well.
What about the mountain areas ? What would someone have to do to visit 3 months or considwr moving there?
I visited Puerto Plata about 6 years ago in December and I did not want to leave. Retirement time is here and I'm working toward landing somewhere.
One of my favorite things about DR when I was growing up there was the power outages. My grandmother would light candles and everyone would sit around and talk all night while drinking coffee. When the power came back, the entire neighborhood would clap and rejoice. Good times.
Yes!!
@@BeThrifty2 I have heard that from Dominicans here in the US too!:) Wonderful memories am sure. We had the same thing happen sometimes when I was growing up in West Africa (Cote d’Ivoire).
Perspective is everything! That actually sounds so great to sit with family without all the distractions.
As a Dominican , your 100% on point on everything you mentioned.
@@eugeneestevez1322 thank you! Appreciate that.
Your recap was spot on. A product of you having spent so much time learning the country from every corner of the island. I can't disagree with or rebut your assessment.
I am from Barbados and would like to visit. This is a very realistic analysis of the DR...thank you. I tried listening to some other YT channels, mostly American males looking for you know what, and you dont get a good feel for the Island. Again thank you!
I am Dominican, and I approve this message 😅
@@angmat9705 😂😂🇩🇴🇩🇴🙏🏾
The best video I ever watched about the DR, spot on. The pros and cons of living there and the Dominican culture. Thanks.
Thank you so much, Maria! Appreciate you taking the time to share that. If there's anything you think I should expand on, let me know.
Shout out from CHI-TOWN CHICAGO, IL, USA! Thanks for sharing this highly informative and enlightening podcast! I read your Dominican Guide book about three years ago! AMEN-ASE!
As a Dominican I appreciate this ❤
I am from DR and also agree with everything you said in this video. I hope your father gets better and soon you can come back to my beautiful country, nice people are always welcome .
GOD, HOMELAND AND LIBERTY
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
🇩🇴♥️🇺🇸
Your Book Was/Is my go-to reference for all things Dominican Republic.. Excellent and detailed information!
Oh thank you so much 😊🙏🏾 and for buying my book!
Best and most honest video about DR. Greetings from Switzerland :-)
Thank you! :)
I absolutely enjoyed this content. I'm in DR every 2 o 3 months. I love ❤️ that place.
Excellent content and analysis! Bavaro feels like I never left the States. No power outages.. Driving.. although a bit aggressive is no different than NYC, DC, or LA. I rented an apartment (local neighborhood) and a car, and it was amazing. The airports are very modern and convenient. I bought a watermelon, and it was sweet and full of seeds 😊
thank you! yes, that whole area is pretty easy to navigate!
I enjoyed your review and honest opinions about the DR. I thought about moving to the DR and changed my mind because of the accidents and customer service issues. I dealt with this in Portugal, and I know my tolerance levels.
You are so spot on with the con’s. I am trying to move back to DR and I am terrified about the driving and the customer service, it really really sucks!
I lived in Santo Domingo for 3 years full time and currently live there for part of the year. This is a great overall summary of the Dominican Republic. Great job! Subscribed!
I ❤ going to DR.I am in the process of living there very soon.Thank you for positive feedback.
Your life has been a wonderful journey living abroad. Thank you for sharing ❤
Thank you ❤️ It is a privilege and blessing I never take for granted. Just hope to share what I know so it helps others.
Great recap. I love it there. I travel there about 4 times a year. So far Santo Domingo is my favorite but I’ve had the pleasure of traveling to various campos, Puerto Plata, Santiago, and Samana and a few other places. I wish I had your job 😂 I pray that I can move there one day. I call this place for some of the things that you’ve stated here
Thank you!! And I hear you:-) My job is cool but it's definitely got its down sides too, especially now we have moved back to the US (we moved to be closer to my dad who isn't well). Maybe there's a remote online job or business you can set up!
I like your video. This is the first time I see your message and you are on point. Customer service sucks in DR, no matter where you go.
I really liked you opinion traveling throughout D.R. As an IT instructor I work virtually and seriously looking to work outside the U.S.
My monthly income around $8,500 and my house in New York can generate an additional income of $6,300 when its rented.
I'm also thinking of Portugal as well. Bye for now.
This vid, just like your book and the other vids (jerga dominicana 101) about the DR, I loved it... THX!
🥰🥰🥰🥰
Very good video. I just returned from the DR yesterday (my fifth time there). As to your point about the Dominican service industry, I wouldn’t say that the lack of service is due to the low pay, but instead, there is very often an arrogance that many Dominicans have BECAUSE they have a job. I’ve discussed this with many Dominicans and they agree completely. Yes, the Dominican people are generally more friendly than here in the US, but there is an arrogance from those who work entry level jobs.
#11: It's been a while since I lasted Visited DR. I remember when I was renting a car and was astounded by I recall the deductible for the insurance was so high. As soon as I had gotten on the road, I realized why. It was a miracle I didn't get into an accident. People were passing me on the left and on the right. It was difficult to know how many lanes there were. I had come from another extremely small Caribbean Island. Flying into the DR, it looked like a continent relatively speaking. I agree regarding customer service. The concept of "The customers are always right" might be a stateside concept but it NOT necessarily the norm in many parts of the Caribbean. You'd find - especially in the former British colonies in the Caribbean - the legacy of British classicism is still very strong.
100% true!! Including the classism, which I talk about a little in my next video for. tomorrow.
These are the types of videos I find most informative and answer the kinds of questions I have. I have your book also. Thank you
Great video, the best to date. The DR is definitely one on my favorite in the Caribbean.
Thanks very much! And I agree with you:)
Thank you, Lily. I've never visited DR, but that didn't prevent me from jumping in feet-first by purchasing a villa in Punta Cana. I wholeheartedly depend on videos such as yours to prepare me for this transition. I will be the first to admit that I'm in violation of a few recommendations you've mentioned. I know zero Spanish (well except for the bad words) and I'm very impatient. But that's ok. I'm going down as an expat and have the rest of my life to learn those things. I've been sold on the pros that you've mentioned for some years now. Between them and this insane infatuation I have for Hispanic culture, DR was a no-brainer for me. I must say, this new tax proposal affecting the Confotur Law and property tax exemption is forcing me to shift some decisions around. I'm not too happy about that, but it's still a fraction of what I would pay in Miami. Thanks again.
Wow that's brave but If you go in with this open mind that you mention then you'll be fine and learn to adapt. As for the tax proposal, it's currently off the table. We'll see if some other proposal is introduced down the line. Either way you're right, taxes are still not as expensive as the US... not yet anyway!
@@arthurkingii2476 I can't wait to buy a villa. Some people suggested an apartment but I'm terrified of apartments because I knew of a family who couldn't esacqpe a burning building in the states. I wonder how they handle fires in the DR.
17:01 just moved permanently in Santo Domingo este. I don't know if they see me as an American, but they provide good service for me. Whatever I buy, they take the items out and make sure they're working. Something that's rare in America. I did have one bad experience while being there one restaurant took hours to bring our food got up and headed to the door. They try to explain but we left to go to another restaurant. It is laid back my wife from Santo Domingo and her family. They treat me good. My pension goes far here. My apartment utilities and food for the month $607 in America almost $3,000. Thank you for the video
Yes it is common practice to take stuff out of the box to make sure it is oK - that's because stores don't do refunds in the DR! Dominicans are nice to foreigners generally and accepting of foreign spouses. And definitely agree on the money going farther, I used to save so much faster when I was there!
Santo Domingo is probably my favorite city in the Caribbean. For the same reasons you mentioned. Also, there's a VA medical center if you are a service connected veteran. I'm looking for a vacation apartment there now.
I really loved it when I was there! Sometimes I miss it still. And that's great to know about the VA medical center, thank you for sharing that!
Been here in Dominican Republic for 7 years
Good info, Thanks.
Wow Lily, amazing reflection. I am from the Dominican Diaspora myself. You were so on point with the way you tell about issues like classism (due to the structural racism that keeps poor the 90% of the population which is Black), the issue of tourism (a new type of colonialism), and many other things such as the learning we can get from the Caribbean people about living and enjoy this life, even under precarious conditions, because we only have one. I cherish that about my people as well. Great video. Thank you!
Thank you so much for watching and for chiming in with your perspective, I really appreciate it! Agree with everything you said as well. And yes, agree that tourism in the Caribbean is certainly a different type of colonialism in many ways and in most places.
I agree 100%
I agree with you on almost every point, except variety of foods. I mean the food scene can’t be compared to NYC but it’s very comparable to Miami’s.
Also, I 100% agree with the classism is DR, which a love of people confuse with racism. A lot of people especially from the US, African Americans talk about DR being racist. They have never been but love to assure the country is racist. It’s mind boggling to me.
On a other note, I think the customer service really sucks in DR and the main reason is lack of training. In the US there is a culture of “the customer is always right”. I feel businesses in DR need to step up their training in customer service.
Thank you for your video
Hi - thank you this was a nice, honest review. We plan to spend more time (snow birding) in the DR. We love the beaches and weather of the north coast. Especially Las Terrenas. Nothing like Playa Ballenas & adjacent beaches. Drawback is its lack of ability to grocery shop and lack of infrastructure in a way. Last spring we rented a car & zig zagged across the country. Fantastic journey! Looking forward to more content! Thank you
@@larapfeffer2845 Thanks so much for sharing! Aaah I love those times of exploring the country and checking out different areas! In a sense what you describe about LT is exactly what’s true: there are pros and cons to every corner of DR and you just have to decide what you’re good with!
Thank you for being objective and impartial. Thank you for #4 ❤ of the pros.
You're welcome:) It is the truth and needs to be shared! Thanks for watching 😊
Great video!
I love this ! You are more dominican than me. You are on point ! The driving is #1 for sure 😂😂😂
Lol! Ya tu sabe!!:)
@tourismlens Lol
I've been living in the dominican repbulic for 18 months now I've lived in the big city and outside of it!
I agree with her ! Great video! and I LOVE it here. I've learned most of their spanish without any classes, just being around people and friends asking questions). My family is from St. Vincent and the Grendines. I was born in new york and raised in the south USA (Atlanta, GA). Honestly, it's sad but classism is a world "issue" not a DR issue if you ask me. Unfortunately at this point, it's something I'm accustomed too. I haven't really seen that it is any more prevalent here in DR than it is anywhere else. So, if you're used to the way the world is pretty much (at least the western world) it's not something that should deter you in my opinion. Just be the change you want to see! I make pretty good money compared to even the average american, and I still treat everyone with respect, and receive respect from everyone as far as I know.
You described everything beautifully, classism is the worst ever. 👍
It really is! We have a debate with my husband on this where I say Santo Domingo is worse than Santiago for this, and he says it's the reverse. What do you think?
Very objective! That’s how truth should be said. ❤
thank you!
Nice video. Like many others, I came across your channel due to my interest in moving to the RD. You touched on a couple of key considerations for me, which are affordability and centrally located. I want an affordable place that cuts down on flight time to other locations I like and want to travel to. I skimmed over your video list, and I see several that I need to binge watch. You have a new subscriber here😊
Yay welcome! :-) Yeah DR is a good base for sure; as long as you can also skip town when you need a break and that's why having access to a lot of flight routes is good, lol.
Hi Lily!
Con #4 is such a travesty because when you're in a hotel people will bend over backwards to serve you and make sure you get what ever you need, but once you get to SD it seems like it's the other way around where you're the one bending over to get their attention 😂😂
@@XloMotion Hi there!! That is true 😂😂 there’s a rude awakening for those who don’t know this is how it goes in real life day to day. Not every time everywhere but generally common!
Love your content. It has really helped my decision to spend more time in the DR… I’ll a part time expat👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
Thanks! Am glad it was helpful - try it out and let us know what you think!!
Subbed
thank you! same, catching up now, phew!
Building a house in Cabarete. Love the area, beaches, people on the North Coast. Any pros/cons from your perspective?
You are 100% Right is sad and happy 😂 at the same time 🇩🇴🇩🇴✊🏼✊🏿✊🏽✊🏻✊🏾 you are welcome back any time
🤣TY! I appreciate that
Terry from Los Angeles California you're video is amazing. Well have been there once I stayed in santo domingo piantini area .
Thanks, Terry! Appreciate you chiming in.
Hi
I must have met you somewhere because we have been to similar places in the DR. Villar Hermanos in Gazcue is my favorite. All that you say is true. I have been living here for years. Regardless of various cons, it is a wonderful place to be. The most common word use here is amor. If you are a romantic like myself then you must know the heart of the DR - mi amor.
I miss Villar Hermanos!! Lol, yes, every day it's "mi amor" - and actually it gets you better customer service when you use it, as you know. DR has its issues but having lived it first hand, I still will defend it to the end !!
@@tourismlens oh yes. I feel like my doing ad for Villar Hermanos but the food is excellent. Omg. I go there all the time. I am a teacher here.
Santiago, Puerto Plata and Semana also have 24/7 electricity.
@@elozano1063 Really, wow. That was not my experience when I was there. I’m so glad it has improved. Definitely something people want to ask about generally.
I agree with you on the culture and being a misunderstood country. I love it there. There are the cons, but i love it
@@sachawalton4137 thanks for sharing, I agree with you. I love it too no matter what.
Thank you so much for sharing this video loved it ❤️🫶🏽
Thansk for watching, so glad to hear!
Great commentary.......I retired here two years ago on the North Coast. You addressed a plethora of the relevant issues here pro and con.Blessings?
Thanks!! Think I might do another video given how a lot of folks are wanting to move there! How are you liking it on the North Coast?
You're video was very informative. I agree with everything you say. I do not if the current proposed tax laws will pass, if they do then it's going to be harder to live in DR for Dominicans and others. This is a beautiful country.
Thank you! Somehow I missed seeing your message. Yes exactly - I was actually studying the proposed tax laws this week and was tempted to do a video on that next and what it might mean long term! Maybe I'll do it! Let's hope they pass a more moderate version... but yeah it's about to change the dynamic if they push it through.
When discussing education you mentioned in general (over all) the education in Dominican Republic is low or weak - my question is: in comparison to which other educational system? The reason I ask is because when I was a child I studied in the Dominican Republic and when I returned to NY I was super advanced compared to other children. I remember in my NY class after my return the kids were on addition and subtraction while I was on multiplication and division.
Very accurate observation. I plan to one day retire there, but my one biggest hesitation in making it a permanent home, is the lack of service as you described. I hate American bureaucracy as it is, but D.R. takes it to a whole 'nother level 😡
Not gonna lie, that was the hardest to take for me! The longer I experienced it the more I understood what locals go through. Not easy.
Great presentation very informative. I'm a senior citizen and want to retire in the Dominican Republic. What city or area have you found that is peaceful and some what quiet where I could obtain wired internet? I can afford pretty much any area. Thanks
Hi Michael! Thanks for watching. That's a really good question. I love peaceful areas because I am a writer, so I was always looking for a quiet apartment with decent wifi but close to some action. So I can suggest a few, starting with Jarabacoa, just outside of the downtown area, as well as parts of the Colonial City that are tucked a street or two from the Calle Conde, and I would also say places like Bayahibe if you like beach towns -- as long as you're not on the Main Street. It is probably the safest place in the DR. There are a lot of options but I think this is a great topic so I'm going to do a separate video on it!! With more detail on why each works, wifi situation, and such. Hope this helps for now!
I think Jarabacoa and Constanza if you ask me
@@szzs2593 I do love Constanza but more for a break/long weekend...it is a bit too remote for me but maybe it could be an option. Not sure how fast the wifi is but worth asking
Yes! Laid back, muy tranquila. I love it. The driving, electricity outrage, internet outage, and low pressure water are definite cons
@@sachawalton4137 yes! Water too, that’s true. You can have really frustrating moments there but also very happy ones 😆 DR is full of life!!
Business insider magazine puts USA #27 in education.
Thank you for this info. Where can I get that book you wrote? I’ve been thinking about moving back to the DR when I retire. I’ve already started to look for land to build my house on.
@@BeThrifty2 Thanks for watching! I’ll link to my travel guidebook in the comments in a few - it’s from 2019 but the background info on each region is still applicable for the most part. How’s the land search going?! We want to buy too but undecided on which province.
Great video thanks for sharing! ...I'll be traveling solo there soon and I'm currently making last minute travel plans to go...Finding this video and the random car with the D.R. flag I parked in front of (I'm in the Carolinas!) is apparently God's green light to go!...Yet any safe recommendations for a solo woman seeking peace, quiet, the beach, and good food (minus the heavy tourist crowds!)? I'm trying to pick the perfect area because I also plan to tour condos for future purchase (vacation home/Air BnB rental) while there...If Punta Cana is the 'Miami' of the island, I guess I'm looking for a Charleston or Savannah Georgia maybe!??
Lol, apparently, this will be my first trip!
How is the DR for long term visitors ? Please guide.
I'm a senior citizen and a disabled veteran, do you think it would be difficult for me for medical purposes or something else ❤🎉😂?
I'm interested in Grenada as a remote work destination. Has anyone been there / worked from there ?
I love DR.
I hate Santiago. The traffic is HORRIBLE 😅
@@mtriple9000 Ha! Traffic is rough for sure. I’ve never liked Santiago for some reason - and my second least fave is Cabarete. What do you love about DR most?
Santo Domingo traffic is worse lol
@@prophyt605 100%
Santiago is better!
What areas in Santo Domingo would you suggest living that are nice for families
Bella Vista is a good one, Naco, or Los Cacigazgos. You'll deal with lot of traffic fyi
Arroyo Hondo!
100% Correct in all your points. Very important what you mentioned about the service industry here in the DR. A smile and a please will get your issue resolved at both the private or government sectors. You try to play Karen here, and you will encounter Karen meeting Karen in her own territory. Politeness goes a long way, Dominicans are not going to be intimidated because you threatened them with calling their manager. I can assure you that they will take losing their jobs over taking your crap 1000 times out of a 1000.
Very informative, would you go back there again?
@@RolandStLuce thank you! That’s a great question lol. My husband and I go back and forth on that. It would be a good spot for a second home and then eventually we can retire there. So yeah haven’t ruled it out completely. Just not ready to go back for a while lol.
My wife and I visit 3 times yearly. We’ve been thinking about a place there for us to enjoy. Is there an area that is mainly country with modern features? We both speak Spanish. We enjoy the country side but don’t want to be near the hatian border. We’ve thought about Puerto Plata. Your thoughts?
Hey Manny! Puerto Plata province is huge but yes there are options for staying outside the city center but staying close to it. Not a huge fan of the North Coast to live but many expats/retirees are into it. Just depends what vibe you like. For me I love Jarabacoa (mountains)- 2 hours north of Santo Domingo - but also parts of the Samana Peninsula (beach) could work for what you describe, like Las Terrenas if you stay just outside of the downtown I'm doing a next video on a few places I recommend! Again depends on activities you are interested in.
@@tourismlens thanks for the info., looking forward to more videos.
Sad i can like just once😘😘😘😘😘😘from ✊🏾✊🏻✊🏽✊🏿✊🏼🇩🇴🇩🇴🇩🇴🇩🇴😍
Is your background Caribbean?
Question..do passport bros have a bad reputation there like they do in colombia? They dont like to tavel and see the country beyond medellin
Hmm I did notice some passport bros (or what were Passport Bro-looking dudes, lol) - in the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, and also on the North coast of course in Sosua, also Boca Chica area. They do seem to stick to those same touristy areas....!
@@tourismlens what does passport bros mean?
@@yenfatule15they are brothers that love travels.
You said there were a lot of misconceptions about the Dominican Republic how is that possible when it’s the most visited tourism attraction in the Caribbean at least not the western hemisphere millions of Americans, Europeans and Canadians , because they love it. The worst thing about it to me is the traffic or driving conditions is very dangerous.
I live here from april 2024
San pedro de macoris
Because is cheaper 😂🎉❤
I dont need expensive gated comunity or
Sky condo with hoa 300or more
Monthly...
Nice! Very recent. I've definitely heard SPM is cheap but always wondered if it was quiet enough cause traffic can be a bit much there, at least when I went. :). How do you get around, do you drive?
@@tourismlens
My wife drive,
You can go around using ring road if you don't like trafic city have 3 enterance
Best comunitys are kenedy,maestros or hazim
But are not cheap..
I live in one poor because is quién excepto sunday saturday,
And no hoa;)
I can leave our home year and not pay nothing.
I feel 100%safe in my hood
Yes Service is an issue there BUT you drink a Presidente and you forget the issue
@@CarlosAponte-RD 😂 sometimes !
so I see ur awards and with that I guess u a Bajan, would I be correct?
@@solojft Hi no I’m not Bajan but I love Barbados too 😆 I focused on the Caribbean for many years, and got awards for some of my stories 🙏🏾
I want to learn more how about dating for you. And is marriage over there.
I would love to move there but my problem is finding a way to make american dollars 💸 over there. That's a big big problem
As you said " I speak Spanish", I couldn't relate Anymore. DR too me is for fine ladies and booty, Punta Cana, Sosua, Infinity Club, KLOKTV.
I love DR I speak Spanish and i no longer want to live in Canada.
Welcome to DR again! We've been mistreated! This is a land of god! Most people here are friendly and open. If you compare us to Haiti. That's our main reason. Culture.!
A very Christian country that is very true -- I meant to mention that! I'm Ethiopian by heritage so that is also why I felt a connection to the DR
I disagree with the educational piece, customer service yes, I agree, they are too laid back and don't understand urgency. Driving it's only until you learn the roads and the system. I drove in the capital without no problem.
@@elozano1063 on the driving - you are brave:). I think it just depends on the person, for sure. And we can agree to disagree re: education.
Yeah, as far as driving. It is crazy, but there's a silent system to the chaos. I definitely don't experience car accidents here as often as I did living in cities like Altanta, or even traveling to Houston or Dallas. Especially talking about fatal accidents. I think some people just fear the chaos itself & that scares them. But I learned to drive in New york city lol, also have driven in multiple states & carribean/other countries. So my experience might be biased!
This does not give me much hope for their healthcare.
Don't agree with you ..