Menu
Expat.com
Search
Magazine
Search
planner

Darlene

@planner

Dominican Republic Expert

Canadian expat in Dominican Republic

Forum posts

17831

Contacts

601

About me

Canadian

Lives in Santo Domingo

Speaks English, Spanish

Registration: 27 December 2010

planner
planner replied to a thread
16 hours ago
markwilkinsonappliancerepair

Please help our Villa in Sosúa getting robbed. by markwilkinsonappliancerepair

We live in the USA and own a Villa in Sosúa, LaMulata 3.We had our own cameras put up and that was working fine until the internet went out and we are the only ones that have the keys to our main house so that the internet can get reconnected ...

planner

@markwilkinsonappliancerepair I sent you a private message Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
16 hours ago
markwilkinsonappliancerepair

Please help our Villa in Sosúa getting robbed. by markwilkinsonappliancerepair

We live in the USA and own a Villa in Sosúa, LaMulata 3.We had our own cameras put up and that was working fine until the internet went out and we are the only ones that have the keys to our main house so that the internet can get reconnected ...

planner

@searea55 My guess is if he knew someone who could help he would not be posting in a forum! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
19 hours ago
Annural Jhol

Accommodation for a Group in Sosúa, Near Puerto Plata - moved from: Dominican Republicforum by planner by Annural Jhol

Hello everyone,I am planning a trip to the north coast of the Dominican Republic with a group of friends, and we are looking for accommodation in Sosúa or near Puerto Plata.We would prefer a large villa instead of booking several hotel rooms. ...

planner

So I find this interesting that after the OP asked the question a brand new member responds with exactly the information needed! Links being removed! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
22 hours ago
Pablolsundsbo

Hello Perla Marina and Residencial Hispaniola house owners! by Pablolsundsbo

I hope it is okay that I share this post here. I am simply trying to connect with other homeowners and HomeExchange members who love this beautiful are. I'm not selling anything or affiliated with HomeExchange. I'm simply hoping more Perla Marina ...

planner

Welcome to the forums! Let's hope others who are connected to the area reach out to you and post here. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 days ago
markwilkinsonappliancerepair

Please help our Villa in Sosúa getting robbed. by markwilkinsonappliancerepair

We live in the USA and own a Villa in Sosúa, LaMulata 3.We had our own cameras put up and that was working fine until the internet went out and we are the only ones that have the keys to our main house so that the internet can get reconnected ...

planner

You are going to need to make a trip here with the keys. No one can just install a system from the outside! Security systems need the internet and a backup system will require some kind of contract. Or Skylink or whatever it's called. You may ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 days ago
chachacourt

Buying furniture in Punta Cana by chachacourt

Hi everyone,I recently purchased a condo in Bávaro, Punta Cana in the BORN development. I’m a Realtor in the U.S. and hope to eventually expand into selling real estate in the Dominican Republic as well.The condo will primarily be for ...

planner

@chachacourt It's impossible to say how.much it will cost. It depends on your taste, quality level and how fast you may want to do it.If you look up Corripio on the internet you can see different prices on appliances.Illumel and illumel outlet both ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 days ago
planner

Personal Update by planner

Many of you know me in person as well as on here. I am active pretty much every single day. I will be away starting Monday December 11 as I am having surgery in Santo Domingo.Some weeks ago I damaged my left shoulder and it just kept getting worse. ...

planner

@mrsmayers64 Pretty sure I am not the only one confused by your post. Give us more context please and then we can help. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 days ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

Welcome to the forums! Lots of great info on the numerous threads. Read, ask questions, start a thread as you need to. We are here to help! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
5 days ago
chad32u

New Car Sosua by chad32u

...anybody know of a good place to buy a new car in the Sosua area? I have a few ideas but want some local knowledge.¡Graçias!

planner

You are far better off to go to the bigger cities! Contact Cruffman on here for assistance. Or at his WhatsApp +1 (829) 546-3624. His fee is very reasonable and he will help you get a good deal! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last week
Johnathanz

General info about work by Johnathanz

How can a professional under 40 find resources to get a job before moving? We have a large group & haveing difficulty finding resources that are honest.

planner

Getting a work permit is not easy. An office type role would first of all require spanish and then it must be skills that no Dominican can be found having! For an office type role that is almost impossible.And office type work pay starts at US ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last week
ChineduOpara

Greetings from This Middle-Aged Semi-Retired Digital Nomad by ChineduOpara

Hello all! My profile has my name and my details, so I won't repeat them here. I'm a semi-retired digital nomad (software developer and certified ESL tutor), visited 14 countries, lived in the USA for 31 years and Colombia for 3.5 years (I left ...

planner

Welcome thank the forums!!! We do have a lot of digital nomads here!!! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last week
ChineduOpara

Seeking Short-Term Rental In Santo Domingo or Boca Chica by ChineduOpara

Hello,This is my first time in the Dominican Republic! So far it seems nice, so I'd like to stay a little longer (till end of August) and explore further. I'm seeking a *furnished* studio ("apartestudio"), 1-bedroom apartment, or Master Bedroom w/ ...

planner

I am sending you a private message Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last week
Cheryl

Expat World Cup dilemma! ⚽ by Cheryl

Hello everyone,A little World Cup curiosity…Imagine this: your home country is playing, but so is the country you now call home. Who are you wearing the jersey for? 😅The World Cup has a unique way of bringing people together from all ...

planner

It's fascinating to watch. Canada got knocked out and the Dominican Republic doesn't have a team! So now my cheerleading is subject to bribes!!!! I am, however, glad the USA got knocked out. Sorry! As of now I will cheer for the best looking team ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last week
Atavi

Street goods - reliable places to recommend by Atavi

I am an adventurous person and like to discover the country bit by bit.What are the reliable and safe places/local restaurants to enjoy street foods across the country you have experienced and could recommend without paying the "tourist price"?

planner

All great ideas need someone to actually do the work. Start a thread and put your recommendations! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last week
Karel44

ARSSeNaSa plan Larimar. Admission check ? by Karel44

We (my wife and I, both over 80) want to emigrate to the Dominican Republic soon. We therefore want health insurance, and we understand that for our age, only ARSSeNaSa is an option (plan Larimar). However, a medical check is also required for ...

planner

And no one should apply for that coverage unless there is NO other option. At 55 you can easily get coverage with some good companies at much better prices. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last week
Karel44

ARSSeNaSa plan Larimar. Admission check ? by Karel44

We (my wife and I, both over 80) want to emigrate to the Dominican Republic soon. We therefore want health insurance, and we understand that for our age, only ARSSeNaSa is an option (plan Larimar). However, a medical check is also required for ...

planner

@windeguy You are absolutely correct. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last week
Scott Holmes

How to run AC cheaply ? by Scott Holmes

I am new and never been to Dominican Republic. My wife has. We are in process of purchasing a 3 bedroom house in Bravos.  The house has 4 AC units.  From what I seen online cost of living articles AC can cause very high electric bill. It ...

planner

@Profe Agayu Make sure they are "black out" curtains hon not necessarily black. 🤗🤗 Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last week
windeguy

All work (online also) DR is illegal without legal status in DR by windeguy

There is a new set of laws regarding working in the DR.  I asked the question about people who enter on a tourist card and work online (or off line or between the line or under the line 😀 in the DR).  That is because all work done ...

planner

That has been the case for many years. The issue is there is NO enforcement. Should there be other visas? I certainly think so. That would allow the govt to enforce easier and collect taxes on income earned while living here and working Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 weeks ago
Cheryl

Most common scams in Dominican Republic by Cheryl

Hello everyone, Settling in Dominican Republic as an expat implies navigating into a new and unfamiliar environment and habits, making you potentially vulnerable to scammers. Whether it’s immigration or finance advice, housing scam, online ...

planner

@Atavi That's a loaded question! They can be very useful. Things have been changing in terms of corruption of the various police agencies.My advice is to do this through a fairly high profile lawyer who is willing to do what is needed! I expect ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 weeks ago
y091420

Special Needs Student Enrolling to School in Dominican Republic by y091420

Does any one knows if the IEP/ETR and Medical Records needs to be notarized for the Ministry of Education in the Dominican Republic to validate a primary school student who has special needs?

planner

Please understand that while it may seem "easy" it rarely if ever is. Just prepare for a ridiculous set of rules and frustration and hopefully it will be easier. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
Scott Holmes

How to run AC cheaply ? by Scott Holmes

I am new and never been to Dominican Republic. My wife has. We are in process of purchasing a 3 bedroom house in Bravos.  The house has 4 AC units.  From what I seen online cost of living articles AC can cause very high electric bill. It ...

planner

@ddmcghee I do that often and it does make the room much more comfortable. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
Scott Holmes

How to run AC cheaply ? by Scott Holmes

I am new and never been to Dominican Republic. My wife has. We are in process of purchasing a 3 bedroom house in Bravos.  The house has 4 AC units.  From what I seen online cost of living articles AC can cause very high electric bill. It ...

planner

First you want an "inverter" style air conditioner! They are more energy efficient.Always use ceiling fans when you run your a/c. It helps you feel cooler so you use higher temps on the air con units. In all my bedrooms I use black out curtains, ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
Scott Holmes

What are the do's and don't when hiring a maid? by Scott Holmes

What are the do's and don't when hiring a maid?  What is a reputable agency to use for Bavaro?

planner

I am not sure if there is any agency in that area. It will cost more to use an agency BUT it will remove you from most risk.If there is none ask neighbors and friends for referrals. If its 1 to 2 days a week it is less complicated. Full time gets ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

@Scott Holmes Welcome to the forums. If there is info you need start by searching the forum. If you don't find what you need, start a thread and ask your questions! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
Karel44

ARSSeNaSa plan Larimar. Admission check ? by Karel44

We (my wife and I, both over 80) want to emigrate to the Dominican Republic soon. We therefore want health insurance, and we understand that for our age, only ARSSeNaSa is an option (plan Larimar). However, a medical check is also required for ...

planner

You are correct it's only ARS Senasa who offers anything. A medical check is done and your age at application determines what tests are needed. And you will have to cover the cost of all testing and acceptance is not guaranteed. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
Yebel3

The Reef Project in Playa Bonita by Yebel3

Does anyone know what is creating delays in the residential projects in playa bonita. Is it iack of permissions/ red tape/etc.? I was told that the Reef by Noval sold out over a year and 1/2 ago yet construction has not started. I am interested ...

planner

Buyer beware here in all cases Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
Atavi

Street goods - reliable places to recommend by Atavi

I am an adventurous person and like to discover the country bit by bit.What are the reliable and safe places/local restaurants to enjoy street foods across the country you have experienced and could recommend without paying the "tourist price"?

planner

If you eat street food you take your chances, period! Today may be ok and tomorrow no!Restaurants tend to be different but it can depend! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
tcantey

Working remote in the dom rep by tcantey

I wanted to ask are there any precautions working a remote us job while in the Dominican Republic 

planner

You can do your own renos in your own property without issue. You are not working for someone else. You can hire and pay contractors or individuals as well without issue. You can turn it over to a property manager at any point you choose.None of ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
tcantey

Working remote in the dom rep by tcantey

I wanted to ask are there any precautions working a remote us job while in the Dominican Republic 

planner

@Atavi No it doesn't count if you mean towards investor or pensioner residency Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 weeks ago
om2252001

Sealing a roof against filtration by om2252001

Looking to get feedback on pricing. Internet gives costs from 300 to 600 pesos per square meter the higher price would include materials. I’m getting much higher quotes just for labor.

planner

Internet is out of date. Get several quotes and look at references from other jobs Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
4 weeks ago
Ismael Mejia V

The day "ahorita" almost ruined my life (DR Spanish) by Ismael Mejia V

Told my landlord I'd be there "ahorita" to pay rent. In my head: 15 minutes. In Dominican: could be 20 minutes, could be Thursday. Showed up "ahorita" later and he looked at me like I'd personally betrayed him.Turns out "ahorita" in DR isn't a time, ...

planner

Learning Spanish online is a great start. Immersion is better. Then you need to learn Dominican version of Spanish, it's different Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
4 weeks ago
Cheryl

Women’s health and support systems in Dominican Republic by Cheryl

Hello everyone, Living in Dominican Republic often means navigating a new healthcare system and social norms, particularly around women’s health. From finding the right medical support to understanding what’s openly discussed or not, ...

planner

Doctor prescription and readily available! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
4 weeks ago
Ismael Mejia V

The day "ahorita" almost ruined my life (DR Spanish) by Ismael Mejia V

Told my landlord I'd be there "ahorita" to pay rent. In my head: 15 minutes. In Dominican: could be 20 minutes, could be Thursday. Showed up "ahorita" later and he looked at me like I'd personally betrayed him.Turns out "ahorita" in DR isn't a time, ...

planner

Absolutely true! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
Robbie123

Renewal of your Dominican drivers license? by Robbie123

Im not sure if anyone can answer this. I have a Dominican drivers licence. Is it possible to renew your Dominican drivers license if you have let your residency and cedula expire?

planner

You go to Intrant wherever you are with your current license, cedula and residency card. They will renew it Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
planner

Health Insurance 2026 by planner

We can't seem to find a thread on just this topic so I opened one. Disclosure: I have a very large private health group! I have been actively managing it for I think 15 years. Some basics: Get your insurance before you turn 65 or you will have ...

planner

@om2252001 I many cases yes. I personally and in business use a variety of providers! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
GuestPoster110110

Top homeowners insurance and underwriters by GuestPoster110110

Looking for the best local insurance underwriters, to write a homeowners insurance policy that can be depended on in case of a claim for a lovely, small house in Santo Domingo Este. It is in las america villa olympica neighborhood in Santo Domingo, ...

planner

Do not go with the banks recommendations. They recommend their own company or an affiliated company. They often earn bonuses based on referrals in house.You can reach out to me at consultantdr@gmail.com and I will help you Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
GuestPoster110110

Top homeowners insurance and underwriters by GuestPoster110110

Looking for the best local insurance underwriters, to write a homeowners insurance policy that can be depended on in case of a claim for a lovely, small house in Santo Domingo Este. It is in las america villa olympica neighborhood in Santo Domingo, ...

planner

@Bhavna Thank you honey! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
GuestPoster110110

Top homeowners insurance and underwriters by GuestPoster110110

Looking for the best local insurance underwriters, to write a homeowners insurance policy that can be depended on in case of a claim for a lovely, small house in Santo Domingo Este. It is in las america villa olympica neighborhood in Santo Domingo, ...

planner

Well I would message you if Expat com fixed this damn sure improvement properly! I have reported this and still cannot see the damn message icon from a cell phone!Imagine I am the moderator and can't do the job! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
GuestPoster110110

Top homeowners insurance and underwriters by GuestPoster110110

Looking for the best local insurance underwriters, to write a homeowners insurance policy that can be depended on in case of a claim for a lovely, small house in Santo Domingo Este. It is in las america villa olympica neighborhood in Santo Domingo, ...

planner

Welcome to the forums and to Santo Domingo east! I am also in SDE. Home owners insurance is readily available and most of the major insurance companies also offer home owners policies. Which one is better may depend what you need it to cover.I ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
Denbo

Buying a vespa by Denbo

Hi EveryoneSo we have bought a townhome in a gated community white sands which is large. We would be staying here 4 months thru winter (No more snow and cold ) We can walk to beach, market etc. its about 15 to 20 minutes but with heat, trying to ...

planner

It's inexpensive. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
DRCulture

Security System Installation by DRCulture

Hi Everyone,I am looking for some suggestions of who could install security cameras for me. I have Blink and Nest cameras, but I am not committed to using them if there is a better suggestion from the person who would be doing the installation. In ...

planner

@MizHolmes I am so sorry this happened. Yes pricemart has a decent system. There are some companies in Santo Domingo who do the monitoring. I am working to get you some contacts. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
danielancew

Can I find a 1-bedroom apartment near the beach for $500/month? by danielancew

Hello everyone,I am planning to move to the Dominican Republic around August and stay for 1-2 years.I am looking for a long-term rental and would like to know what realistic local prices are when searching on the ground instead of Airbnb or tourist ...

planner

Glad we are able to be helpful even when it may not be what you want to hear! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
danielancew

Can I find a 1-bedroom apartment near the beach for $500/month? by danielancew

Hello everyone,I am planning to move to the Dominican Republic around August and stay for 1-2 years.I am looking for a long-term rental and would like to know what realistic local prices are when searching on the ground instead of Airbnb or tourist ...

planner

@danielancew Welcome to the forums. Something not on your list is back up power system. If you work remotely it will be mandatory.Your budget isn't great and it will take work to find. Really rentals are found with boots on the ground. Rent an air ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
Atavi

Furnitures and appliances stores in santo Domingo by Atavi

What are some reputable appliances and furniture stores in santo domingo to buy items from and get ship to Punta Cana?I need a/c, washer and dryer, and dinning table with 4 chairs.

planner

Corripio is good for appliances! Furniture Ikea, Illumel and Illumel Outlet are both good. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

@nicolas lux neon Welcome to the forums. I would have no issue with you starting a thread discussing the local arts culture. I think that would be amazing,I am in Santo Domingo and happy to get together, Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

@Bhavna It doesnt appear on my desktop or on my phone! I cannot report anything either. Read More

planner
planner created a thread
last month

Hurricane season 2026

Hurricane season officially starts today, June 1 and will run until November 30th. We will use this thread to track any threats and reports of damages.Our busiest time for storms is mid August until mid October. This year is expected to be ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
Cheryl

Women’s health and support systems in Dominican Republic by Cheryl

Hello everyone, Living in Dominican Republic often means navigating a new healthcare system and social norms, particularly around women’s health. From finding the right medical support to understanding what’s openly discussed or not, ...

planner

Mammogram just needs a doctor prescription then it's fast and easy.HRT can be an issue! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
dpatient63

Hoping to buy property in the next 6 months by dpatient63

Hi my name is Debra, me and my husband Andrew are hoping to buy a property in the next six months.We have 5 years left before we retire but would like to be established in the DR before then.I'm a receptionist in a care home and my husband is a ...

planner

Please do not promote yourself on the forums. You are welcome to post your details in the classifieds.Individuals are also not allowed to post their phone or email information. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
last month
Cheryl

Women’s health and support systems in Dominican Republic by Cheryl

Hello everyone, Living in Dominican Republic often means navigating a new healthcare system and social norms, particularly around women’s health. From finding the right medical support to understanding what’s openly discussed or not, ...

planner

Well this is interesting.So public health to everyone sucks.Private health care is decent if you have either insurance or money.Women's health is secondary. Education of doctors is not the best and many of the older doctors do not do continuing ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

@Bhavna Thanks for the explanation honey! And for removing the link! I was unable to report the issue! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

On the bar below your post should be an edit option honey Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

Honey please edit your post and take out your web link. It's not allowed. You can post in the classified section! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

@k-kasas Welcome to the forums! What part of the country will you be moving to? Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
planner

Health Insurance 2026 by planner

We can't seem to find a thread on just this topic so I opened one. Disclosure: I have a very large private health group! I have been actively managing it for I think 15 years. Some basics: Get your insurance before you turn 65 or you will have ...

planner

No idea if Cigna is well accepted here but its a lot more expensive. You may be better off to get your insurance before your 65th birthday even if not quite ready for it.Lawyer accountant and tax preparer for what???I really do not understand what ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Cheryl

Raising kids the local way in Dominican Republic by Cheryl

Hello everyone, Raising children as an expat in Dominican Republic means discovering new parenting habits. School routines, discipline, food habits, independence, social life… many things may work differently in Dominican Republic compared ...

planner

I have zero qualifications to answer this! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
planner

Health Insurance 2026 by planner

We can't seem to find a thread on just this topic so I opened one. Disclosure: I have a very large private health group! I have been actively managing it for I think 15 years. Some basics: Get your insurance before you turn 65 or you will have ...

planner

They upgraded the appearance of threads here and I cannot private message anyone. So feel free to email me at consultantdr@gmail.com and I will get you additional information. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
planner

Health Insurance 2026 by planner

We can't seem to find a thread on just this topic so I opened one. Disclosure: I have a very large private health group! I have been actively managing it for I think 15 years. Some basics: Get your insurance before you turn 65 or you will have ...

planner

I will contact you both privately Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
planner

Health Insurance 2026 by planner

We can't seem to find a thread on just this topic so I opened one. Disclosure: I have a very large private health group! I have been actively managing it for I think 15 years. Some basics: Get your insurance before you turn 65 or you will have ...

planner

@C MillNJ That is correct! You can get insurance with an exclusion. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

I just posted the new thread! Read More

planner
planner created a thread
2 months ago

Health Insurance 2026

We can't seem to find a thread on just this topic so I opened one. Disclosure: I have a very large private health group! I have been actively managing it for I think 15 years. Some basics: Get your insurance before you turn 65 or you will have ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

Well that was not successful, search function is not cooperating.So let me start a thread and let's put it all in one place Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

@walter1107b Let me find them! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Denbo

Whats required to stay 3 months in Punta Cana by Denbo

Asking for your knowledge we returned home from our place we just bought in white sands Punta Cana and love it. We are planning on returning for January to end of march. I know 30 days is ok but what is required for 3 months? Also can any of it be ...

planner

There is no 90 day visa currently. You arrive on a 30 day tourist visa. You can go online and pay the overstay fine but it's a real pain in the you know what. You are required to get a medical letter and prove you have the means to stay and ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
wondering9

Are these foods available in Santo Domingo (or elsewhere in the DR)? by wondering9

me again -- wondering if it's possible to buy these foods here(1) sugar-free peanut butter (the kind without additives, just peanuts and maybe salt)(2) tofuclues welcome!if they're really not available, knowing that would also be helpful too.thanks!

planner

And remember, if you see it, buy it, might not be there when you go back! I am Canadian and crave Miracle Whip. IF I find it I will buy enough for months of use! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
groby57

A CLOSER LOOK by groby57

A Closer Look 0001 Where is home? Ascending through the clouds, coming into view was the lush vegetation and visual beauties of an island not yet known to many, yet known to a few as home. The island has its very own rhythm and dance. No matter ...

planner

We look forward to your stories!!!! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
iris lendor

Hoping to connect with some expats by iris lendor

Good afternoon.  My name is Iris and I just joined this excellent group.  I am a real estate agent in NYS and Broker in DR (BRpro Inmobiliaria).  If anyone is looking to relocate to DR and it is located in the US, I am available in ...

planner

Welcome to the forums. Please put a listing in the classifieds honey! Thanks. Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Cheryl

Quality of customer service in Dominican Republic by Cheryl

Hello everyone, Customer service can say a lot about everyday life in Dominican Republic, and for many expats, it’s something that could take time to get used to. In order to help expats and soon-to-be expats to adjust to local ...

planner

@WayneColeman I feel your pain. Have you talked to Cruffman on here about a used car? He helped me more than once get into a good used vehicle! I highly recommend him.I have special dietary needs - some are serious - so any restaurant not willing ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Mila V

What to expect at residency appt at DGM? by Mila V

My appointment is this upcoming Thursday and I just want to know what to expect with that appointment and the medical appointment after? The residency is through family reunification if that helpsAlso, they are charging me an overstay fee for 3-9 ...

planner

It should be fairly routine. As for the overstay fine, my advice, just pay it. You risk delaying everything over a few dollars. Last thing you want to do is piss off a clerk! They tend to be over worked and under paid! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
2 months ago
Denbo

Buying a vespa by Denbo

Hi EveryoneSo we have bought a townhome in a gated community white sands which is large. We would be staying here 4 months thru winter (No more snow and cold ) We can walk to beach, market etc. its about 15 to 20 minutes but with heat, trying to ...

planner

So those are called pasolas here. You can only drive on your Canadian license while your tourist visa is valid. If you have residency you can get a Dominican license.Insurance is mandatory! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 months ago
Cheryl

Quality of customer service in Dominican Republic by Cheryl

Hello everyone, Customer service can say a lot about everyday life in Dominican Republic, and for many expats, it’s something that could take time to get used to. In order to help expats and soon-to-be expats to adjust to local ...

planner

You are so right about people "cutting in line". In many ways it's every man for himself here. Staff just go with the flow! Often he who screams the loudest gets helped first too This used to drive me nuts but I have had to adjust! I will often ... Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 months ago
Martha Sánchez Luxus

Why invest in the Dominican Republic? Legal benefits for foreigners by Martha Sánchez Luxus

For many years, the Dominican Republic has established itself as one of the most attractive destinations in the Caribbean for foreigners interested in investing, relocating, or settling permanently.Beyond its location, climate, and quality of life, ...

planner

@Martha Sánchez Luxus Thank you Martha, we look forward to your contributions! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 months ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

@Juliesphone76 Welcome to you as well honey!!! You are doing this right. Take your time and learn about the country Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 months ago
Julien

New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien

Hi all, Newbie on the Dominican Republic forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...

planner

@carla_sailing Welcome Carla!!!!! Read More

planner
planner replied to a thread
3 months ago
Martha Sánchez Luxus

Why invest in the Dominican Republic? Legal benefits for foreigners by Martha Sánchez Luxus

For many years, the Dominican Republic has established itself as one of the most attractive destinations in the Caribbean for foreigners interested in investing, relocating, or settling permanently.Beyond its location, climate, and quality of life, ...

planner

Welcome to the forums. This is good information. Not to be jaded, we have had many lawyers offer information and then they disappear, never to answer a question on here. The exception is Lishali Baez who specializes in residency and related items. ... Read More