wondering9
American expat in Panama
Forum posts
229
Contacts
1
About me
American
Lives in Panamá, Panamá, Panama
Registration: 28 August 2023
New members of the Panama forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Panama 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 on your ...
@Robert Hopkin I'm not sure how you're defining "fact" but a lot of those look like opinions to me. Just because this was a mistake for you doesn't mean it will be for other people. There's no need to insult people who make different choices, and ... Read More
New members of the Panama forum, introduce yourselves here - 2026 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Panama 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 on your ...
And two years later you're still so steamed about it that you come back to unload this jeremiad? Sounds like leaving was the right decision for you, and maybe it's time to move on.It's definitely a good idea to check a place out as well as you can ... Read More
Transportation from POP to Las Terrenas by rfortinsz
Hello everyone!I will be arriving in Puerto Plata in 5 days (on the 31st of July) and am searching for the best rideshare service to Las Terrenas. I haven’t had any luck online so far, only seeing private rides. Having 2 large suitcases plus ...
@rfortinszIIRC Eduar/Edward Taxi, based in Cabarete, covers that route and is reasonably priced and reliable. Read More
MiniMed enrollment?
Hello all, apologies if this has been asked before but I did search and didn't see anything -- I'll be arriving in Panama on August 1. I've been reading about MiniMed and especially the "expat membership" and would really like to have an enrollment ... Read More
Anything like a cashier's check / money order available in Costa Rica? by wondering9
Hello everyone, newbie here, writing on the off chance that someone might have a clue on this --I'm currently in San Jose, trying to gather my US documents for a residency application. (Yes, I know that's not the ideal way to do it, but it is what ...
Thanks! I've been chasing various options that could work if I can't purchase this thing locally... For now just want to make 100% sure that buying it here is not an option."Best thing to do is bite the bullet and do it their way because they're not ... Read More
Anything like a cashier's check / money order available in Costa Rica? by wondering9
Hello everyone, newbie here, writing on the off chance that someone might have a clue on this --I'm currently in San Jose, trying to gather my US documents for a residency application. (Yes, I know that's not the ideal way to do it, but it is what ...
It was a straightforward factual question of exactly the type I thought this forum was here to engage with. My mistake. It won't happen again. Read More
anything like a cashier's check / money order available in Costa Rica?
Hello everyone, newbie here, writing on the off chance that someone might have a clue on this --I'm currently in San Jose, trying to gather my US documents for a residency application. (Yes, I know that's not the ideal way to do it, but it is what ... Read More
Computer store in Las Terrenas or Nagua? by wondering9
Hello, can anyone recommend a store selling computer accessories in either Las Terrenas or Nagua? My laptop is on strike and I need to buy a wired external keyboard. Unfortunately I need it quickly (🤣😪). Thanks for any tips!
I don't like to rely too much on Google (Maps) as it sometimes contains obsolete listings. (I've had mixed experiences with reviews too.) That's why I wanted to ask live humans who've been there. Since I was in a hurry, though, I did end up doing it ... Read More
Question about tipping by wondering9
I've been staying in a place that is also listed in Airbnb, but for the past ~4 months I've rented directly from the landlord (who is local and lives on the premises). I've done my own cleaning except for laundry, where the only option was to have ...
Yes, just for doing laundry. How much would you suggest per load? Read More
question about tipping
I've been staying in a place that is also listed in Airbnb, but for the past ~4 months I've rented directly from the landlord (who is local and lives on the premises). I've done my own cleaning except for laundry, where the only option was to have ... Read More
computer store in Las Terrenas or Nagua?
Hello, can anyone recommend a store selling computer accessories in either Las Terrenas or Nagua? My laptop is on strike and I need to buy a wired external keyboard. Unfortunately I need it quickly (🤣😪). Thanks for any tips! Read More
Retirement looking for accommodation by Darryl Stewart
I am currently looking for a three bedroom apartment no more than 400 a month with my Social Security retirement pay please help
Just checking (no pressure to share personal details), you do realize that the minimum income required for a retirement residency is USD 1500/month? Read More
Intercultural relationships in Dominican Republic by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share some fun anecdotes and information regarding intercultural marriages and relationships in Dominican Republic. This will provide some insight to current and future expats regarding relationship norms in mixed ...
I don't want to minimize the risks and complications, but I think we need to remember that hypocrisy, exploitation, abuse, and even murder happen in EVERY social and economic group -- including the wealthiest, classiest, and most pious. Pick up any ... Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
I was taking a walk this morning and thinking about just how enchantingly weird some neighborhoods are -- with the steep up-and-down streets that in turn have steep drop-offs to the side, and the side alleys and crooked staircases and precipitous ... Read More
Retirement residency renewal -- proof of bank deposits by wondering9
One of the requirements to renew a residency permit is to prove that you have been depositing the minimum amount ($1500/month) into a Dominican bank. Can anyone who's done this recently say how many months of bank statements are being required? Or ...
(never mind, the post I was resonding to changed) Read More
Retirement residency renewal -- proof of bank deposits by wondering9
One of the requirements to renew a residency permit is to prove that you have been depositing the minimum amount ($1500/month) into a Dominican bank. Can anyone who's done this recently say how many months of bank statements are being required? Or ...
@Christopher David 56 just to confirm: for a retirement/pensioner's residency? Read More
Retirement residency renewal -- proof of bank deposits by wondering9
One of the requirements to renew a residency permit is to prove that you have been depositing the minimum amount ($1500/month) into a Dominican bank. Can anyone who's done this recently say how many months of bank statements are being required? Or ...
Thanks, everybody; this helps a lot! I'm glad the most anyone has been asked for is 6 months worth of records as I initially had some bumps in the road getting my banking set up. One follow-up question: the lawyer I worked with on the original ... Read More
retirement residency renewal -- proof of bank deposits
One of the requirements to renew a residency permit is to prove that you have been depositing the minimum amount ($1500/month) into a Dominican bank. Can anyone who's done this recently say how many months of bank statements are being required? Or ... Read More
Remitly issue by wondering9
I'm trying to transfer money from a US bank to Banco Santa Cruz via Remitly. It's not going smoothly, and I thought I'd check here to see if anyone has had a similar experience or otherwise has light to shed on this.The transfer has been kicked back ...
Well yay, it worked at last! Yes January 2 seemed like a pretty normal business day. I got someone very efficient and pleasant at the bank. It turned out that on the previous visit they had not entered my cédula number at all, but it's in now ... Read More
Remitly issue by wondering9
I'm trying to transfer money from a US bank to Banco Santa Cruz via Remitly. It's not going smoothly, and I thought I'd check here to see if anyone has had a similar experience or otherwise has light to shed on this.The transfer has been kicked back ...
Turns out the Remitly problem that was supposedly solved 8 days ago, wasn't, so I will have to go in to BSC again. I gather that today (Dec 31) is a half-holiday and next week things will be shut for one?two? days for Epiphany... is Friday (Jan 2) a ... Read More
health insurance: Senasa as of late 2025
So has Senasa now graduated from "pretty grim" to "completely broken"?I've been trying to follow the news but most articles I've read focus on the scandal/big shots caught with their hands in the flour rather than what it means for the system and ... Read More
Remitly issue by wondering9
I'm trying to transfer money from a US bank to Banco Santa Cruz via Remitly. It's not going smoothly, and I thought I'd check here to see if anyone has had a similar experience or otherwise has light to shed on this.The transfer has been kicked back ...
Banco Santa Cruz is supposed to be one of the most expat-friendly banks, isn't it?Banking paperwork, and questioning, can seem overwhelming, even when done by a friendly and gracious employee. I read somewhere that one of the reasons for all the ... Read More
Remitly issue by wondering9
I'm trying to transfer money from a US bank to Banco Santa Cruz via Remitly. It's not going smoothly, and I thought I'd check here to see if anyone has had a similar experience or otherwise has light to shed on this.The transfer has been kicked back ...
@karynllanders I have to admit that was a suspicion of mine (since they had gotten my email wrong earlier). In fact, the only reason I even input that last Remitly request was to have an up-to-date paper trail to take with me to BSC tomorrow to ask ... Read More
Remitly issue by wondering9
I'm trying to transfer money from a US bank to Banco Santa Cruz via Remitly. It's not going smoothly, and I thought I'd check here to see if anyone has had a similar experience or otherwise has light to shed on this.The transfer has been kicked back ...
@planner I think that must be the explanation. I was on my eighth or ninth try when the bank deposit finally went through.In contrast, sending the same amount for cash pickup went through on the first try and was almost instantaneous.It's weird that ... Read More
Remitly issue
I'm trying to transfer money from a US bank to Banco Santa Cruz via Remitly. It's not going smoothly, and I thought I'd check here to see if anyone has had a similar experience or otherwise has light to shed on this.The transfer has been kicked back ... Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
i think my sense of humor just ran dry. I was finally about to set up online banking for my account (very tl;dr why that didn't happen sooner). During that process, the banker asked to check my email @ddress; I handed her a business card so she ... Read More
Timing of the residency application process (2025) by wondering9
I was looking for an existing thread to tack this onto but couldn't quickly find one, so here's one more input to the "how long does it take?" question.I initiated the process of applying for a retirement residency in December 2024. It took...3 ...
Jennifer, I don't think wages can be used to qualify for that type of visa; it's more for investment income if I'm not mistaken. Definitely verify before you get too invested (wallet-wise or heart-wise).Somewhere -- maybe even on the expat.com ... Read More
Timing of the residency application process (2025) by wondering9
I was looking for an existing thread to tack this onto but couldn't quickly find one, so here's one more input to the "how long does it take?" question.I initiated the process of applying for a retirement residency in December 2024. It took...3 ...
@Jennifer Storm Nelson There are people here who know a lot more about this than I do so don't take this as the be-all-end-all, butYes, the first interview takes place in the DR.No, you don't have to stay in the DR while waiting for the second ... Read More
forwarding of Amazon shipments
I tried my first Amazon purchase from the DR, and one thing I hadn't thought about was how Amazon splits an order into multiple shipments, thus (I assume) making the forwarding from Miami much more expensive than it would be for a single package. ... Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
I just got mine back (December 2025); the whole process took just under 4 weeks. Read More
Banking (mostly ATM) questions by wondering9
I don't think this has been asked before; apologies if I missed something.I'm still drawing money out of my US bank account via ATMs and probably will be for a couple more months (for longwinded and boring reasons not worth going into). Banco ...
I didn't make a full-on research project out of it, but it does look like yes, the rules are different for ATM withdrawals vs interactions with a live human teller. The amounts you can withdraw may differ even from one ATM to another at the same ... Read More
Using DR courier services for sensitive documents by wondering9
Would you consider it safe to use a service like Domex to receive a new ATM card or credit card?I'm assuming that Domex would be a good bet because that's who the US embassy uses. Also in my brief dealings with them they have seemed pretty ...
Good to know! But if it comes via my US- based mail forwarder, mailed in a bank envelope but not otherwise ID'd as a bank card, would there be any way they would know? Read More
using DR courier services for sensitive documents
Would you consider it safe to use a service like Domex to receive a new ATM card or credit card?I'm assuming that Domex would be a good bet because that's who the US embassy uses. Also in my brief dealings with them they have seemed pretty ... Read More
Trip For a couple to the North Coast by matt552
AnythiAUTUMNAnything much new on the north coast over the last 5 years as last time there? Started going to the DR 25 years ago but was always single, and now taking my fiance to enjoy the beaches. Thanks in advance for tips as landing in POP.
Well it's not on the beach but ya gotta eat, so when in Puerto Plata, for an inexpensive and ambience-rich dining treat I recommend Empana House, which is on a side street (Calle El Morro) just off Av. 27 de Febrero (a major north/south street) ... Read More
Timing of the residency application process (2025) by wondering9
I was looking for an existing thread to tack this onto but couldn't quickly find one, so here's one more input to the "how long does it take?" question.I initiated the process of applying for a retirement residency in December 2024. It took...3 ...
@Jennifer Storm Nelson After you submit your documents from the States, there's another wait until you get your initial visa (I can't remember how long that was for me, I think 2-3 months). Once they issue that, you have to get here within a month ... Read More
Managing meals in Dominican Republic by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Managing meals day-to-day can sometimes be a real mental challenge, even more so when you land in a new environment, with different schedules, habits or ingredients. How do you manage your meal routine as an expat in Dominican ...
I was surprised by the difficulty of finding fresh fruit and veg outside of the big cities, especially fruit. Where I've been, the selection has been has been smaller, and most items look less shiny and perfect (as a friend back in the States said, ... Read More
Getting Address for new Construction by Stacy ST
Does anyone have experience getting their land/lot registered with an address? We purchased a plot of land in an industrial area that is all new construction. We are told the street has name, but we do not know what it is and it is not yet ...
While you're working on that, can you give it a Google Maps Plus Code? It's an alternative way to denote locations. You'd get a better explanation from google than I could give, Read More
Banking (mostly ATM) questions by wondering9
I don't think this has been asked before; apologies if I missed something.I'm still drawing money out of my US bank account via ATMs and probably will be for a couple more months (for longwinded and boring reasons not worth going into). Banco ...
My home bank limit is high enough (I can get the maximum amount from Banco Popular if I'm willing to pay for it). I'm curious if I might be able to withdraw more money by talking to a human teller than I can get from the ATM. Read More
banking (mostly ATM) questions
I don't think this has been asked before; apologies if I missed something.I'm still drawing money out of my US bank account via ATMs and probably will be for a couple more months (for longwinded and boring reasons not worth going into). Banco ... Read More
New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025 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 ...
Duolingo won't help you with Dominican slang alas. I think any of the Spanish keyboards would work fine, in fact I can't imagine how they would differ. Whatever it is, it's not likely to hold you back -- go for Latin American!Worrying about ... Read More
Dogs in the airport by tosharogers
Hello, my name is Tosha and I will be moving to Sosua from the States and with me will be my two dogs. Will I be able to fly into Puerto Plata International Airport with one as "cargo?" Thank you.
Eduar Taxi/Edward Taxi in Cabarete (near Sosua) and Santo Domingo Taxi both do long-distance trips and can take a lot of luggage. You could ask them if they take dogs in crates, my guess would be yes. They have English speaking staff and I think ... Read More
Shopping questions by wondering9
does anyone happen to know whether there's a place to buy... snorkeling gear in Las Terrenas? one of those folding, ultra-portable backpacking stools or chairs, anywhere in the DR? (I imagine you can get normal folding chairs in a lot of places, but ...
No pain so far ... I have not yet begun to shop (aside from keeping an eye out during Jumbo runs).Just looking for ways to extend my outdoor time really. And planning a day trip to Las Terrenas sometime soon. LT seems to have more dive- and ... Read More
shopping questions
does anyone happen to know whether there's a place to buy... snorkeling gear in Las Terrenas? one of those folding, ultra-portable backpacking stools or chairs, anywhere in the DR? (I imagine you can get normal folding chairs in a lot of places, but ... Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
[[US]] Passport renewal is relatively easy! - @ddmcghee Back to ^^this for a minute. I am sure Denise is right in general. FWIW, I had quite a bit of trouble getting live-human answers to questions not already answered on the website. I tried both ... Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
I just had the most excellent adventure mostly by mistake. I have been trying to figure out how to take the guagua from Samaná city to the famously beautiful El Valle beach, and it finally worked. On the way in they dropped me at the beach ... Read More
Best Bank for US Expats by brodies2013
We are finally in the planning stages of our move to DR! (We've been members here since 2014 and purchased a fixer upper on the north coast in 2015!) We are also shopping for a new bank...what bank would US Expat.com members recommend?
Does residency require a local bank account...I assume yes? - @brodies2013 Yes it does ... and you may find that the requirements for opening an account vary unpredictably. It was my least favorite hurdle when starting the residency process ;) but ... Read More
Timing of the residency application process (2025) by wondering9
I was looking for an existing thread to tack this onto but couldn't quickly find one, so here's one more input to the "how long does it take?" question.I initiated the process of applying for a retirement residency in December 2024. It took...3 ...
They issued me 1 year on the residency and two years on the Cédula. FWIW, that's what I got too, on my first-time residency Thursday. Read More
Timing of the residency application process (2025) by wondering9
I was looking for an existing thread to tack this onto but couldn't quickly find one, so here's one more input to the "how long does it take?" question.I initiated the process of applying for a retirement residency in December 2024. It took...3 ...
@CHRISTOPHER DAVID56 Please do update!Do you mind saying what documents they require? Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
Yay, I'm legal! -- got my cédula on Thursday. That was an enriching experience which I'm glad to have behind me 😏. Now I can get going on making longer-term living arrangements. I've narrowed down my choice to Samaná or Rio San ... Read More
timing of the residency application process (2025)
I was looking for an existing thread to tack this onto but couldn't quickly find one, so here's one more input to the "how long does it take?" question.I initiated the process of applying for a retirement residency in December 2024. It took...3 ... Read More
Residency Renewal 2025 by UncleBuck
I have successfully completed the online renewal application for Temporary Residency. My Residency and Cédula both expire mid-November this year. The date being offered to pick up my card is end of January 2026.I know they are changing the ...
update: with whatever thanks are due to little birds in the background, I got an answer and we seem to be back on track -- good Lord willing/creeks don't rise (literally). Read More
Residency Renewal 2025 by UncleBuck
I have successfully completed the online renewal application for Temporary Residency. My Residency and Cédula both expire mid-November this year. The date being offered to pick up my card is end of January 2026.I know they are changing the ...
The noncommunication had already gone on for a week before the storm became an issue. I have been persistent and respectful throughout the time we've worked together, and plan on continuing to be so, of course. This lawyer made a comment to me once ... Read More
Residency Renewal 2025 by UncleBuck
I have successfully completed the online renewal application for Temporary Residency. My Residency and Cédula both expire mid-November this year. The date being offered to pick up my card is end of January 2026.I know they are changing the ...
I already have a bunch of questions out to my lawyer that have been pending for over a week, and I have already followed up once. This lawyer has in the past answered from outside the office/working hours (so I know that's an option for them), but ... Read More
Residency Renewal 2025 by UncleBuck
I have successfully completed the online renewal application for Temporary Residency. My Residency and Cédula both expire mid-November this year. The date being offered to pick up my card is end of January 2026.I know they are changing the ...
@Christopher David56 I am working through a lawyer and do not have a personal log-in to the DGM portal. Read More
Residency Renewal 2025 by UncleBuck
I have successfully completed the online renewal application for Temporary Residency. My Residency and Cédula both expire mid-November this year. The date being offered to pick up my card is end of January 2026.I know they are changing the ...
Anyone contacting any services or lawyers in Santo Domingo, those offices are all closed today, possibly tomorrow as well due to this storm - @planner Two questions about this -- and of course, the higher priority is hoping that everyone in Santo ... Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
Yeah, you could definitely tell that they were different.I wonder if regular oranges are this hard to find outside of the larger markets or if I've just been having short-term bad luck. This /seems/ like it would be a good climate to grow oranges in ... Read More
Hurricane season 2025 by planner
Lets use this to track the storms that are on the way! Our last one Erin passed to the north of us and had few serious affects on us. I do not think we will always get this lucky so lets keep track of whats going on here!Currently we are watching ...
As Planner said in another thread yesterday,Anyone contacting any services or lawyers in Santo Domingo, those offices are all closed today, possibly tomorrow as well due to this storm.Stay safe, people! For a non-hurricane, Melissa is a scary storm, ... Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
I think that must be something different. The one I got was more mottled green/yellow on the outside, light yellow on the inside, and it tasted very sour. Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
I have a question about oranges. In the larger stores like Jumbo, you can find oranges that look like oranges look in the States which are often labeled as imported. In the ever-delightful Samaná, which does not have any of those stores but ... Read More
Moving to Las Terrenas or Semana by Steverino7777
Hello,As I approach my 10th anniversary living seasonally in La Romana and Casa de Campo, I am seriously considering moving to a new winter home in the Las Terrenas / Semana area. I have only been to the cities of Semana and Las Terrenas but I am ...
Samana has no personality and it is ugly to meberthold24LOL I believe the designated tourist euphemism is "gritty."It may not be to everyone's taste, but it's hard to deny that it's got buckets of personality(and some great views -- depends on which ... Read More
There's no Dominican equivalent to Goodwill, is there? by wondering9
I'm wondering what the best way is to dispose of clothes in good condition that I don't need. I gather the used clothing market here is different and I don't want to put my foot in it. It's only a few items, but I am still travelng around and need ...
My Airbnb host's cleaning lady can take them, which is a nice solution because it requires no further effort from me Thanks for all the great suggestions!I did say this was a small # of items and y'all responded accordingly. Everyone probably ... Read More
There's no Dominican equivalent to Goodwill, is there? by wondering9
I'm wondering what the best way is to dispose of clothes in good condition that I don't need. I gather the used clothing market here is different and I don't want to put my foot in it. It's only a few items, but I am still travelng around and need ...
I had read various places (on the ever-reliable Interwebs that there was a glut on used clothes and/or that donations interfered somehow with the second-hand clothes market. Not such a real issue then?I tried one nonprofit last week and "my ... Read More
Ferries Del Caribe by pharrison742
There is a Ferry that sail from PR to Santo Domingo. This is cruise line type of ship. Looks more like a Navy ship, the ferry is 13hrs long, cost is $65.00. It is dog friendly and offers food and beverages same as the cruise line, etc, Dining room, ...
i have, I encourage others to do the same, and I don't think I can contribute anything else useful to this conversation so I'll bail now. But I def want to take that ferry someday. Read More
Ferries Del Caribe by pharrison742
There is a Ferry that sail from PR to Santo Domingo. This is cruise line type of ship. Looks more like a Navy ship, the ferry is 13hrs long, cost is $65.00. It is dog friendly and offers food and beverages same as the cruise line, etc, Dining room, ...
From Puerto Rico, sure -- but to get a car from the US mainland to PR is neither cheap nor easy (there's a stiff import tax/fee and a lot of paperwork), and there's no way (at least, none that I ever came across) to stay with your car for that leg ... Read More
there's no Dominican equivalent to Goodwill, is there?
I'm wondering what the best way is to dispose of clothes in good condition that I don't need. I gather the used clothing market here is different and I don't want to put my foot in it. It's only a few items, but I am still travelng around and need ... Read More
Ferries Del Caribe by pharrison742
There is a Ferry that sail from PR to Santo Domingo. This is cruise line type of ship. Looks more like a Navy ship, the ferry is 13hrs long, cost is $65.00. It is dog friendly and offers food and beverages same as the cruise line, etc, Dining room, ...
@wondering9 Please watch videos and decide for yourself. - @pharrison742 Now trying to remember the last time anything I saw in a travel video matched anything I saw in real life...😉I'm glad you're excited about it, I was just curious ... Read More
Ferries Del Caribe by pharrison742
There is a Ferry that sail from PR to Santo Domingo. This is cruise line type of ship. Looks more like a Navy ship, the ferry is 13hrs long, cost is $65.00. It is dog friendly and offers food and beverages same as the cruise line, etc, Dining room, ...
Have you taken the trip? If so, what was it like?I definitely want to try it someday. Read More
Retirement Visas by Pat Kitchen
My wife and I are in the process of obtaining retirement visas for the DR. We have been in contact with a couple of Dominican law firms. We are a bit taken aback with the fees they are charging. Also, we know there are going to be ...
Your safest bet would be to check with an immigration lawyer... and/or just be prepared to handle it if things do turn out different. It's 2025. There are fewer and fewer things I feel safe assuming even in my home country. And assumptions about how ... Read More
Moving to Las Terrenas or Semana by Steverino7777
Hello,As I approach my 10th anniversary living seasonally in La Romana and Casa de Campo, I am seriously considering moving to a new winter home in the Las Terrenas / Semana area. I have only been to the cities of Semana and Las Terrenas but I am ...
@snowinpalm I wondered if that might be what you meant. And yes, current levels of traffic in Samaná are heavenly compared to Cabarete (your example). But with the major investments in infrastructure (which only make sense if intended to ... Read More
How to find the property of a deceased person? by asortikov
Hi all!About three years ago, my aunt died, and I'm the only heir. She lived in Europe but owned property in the Dominican Republic. However, I don't have any precise information about her property or bank accounts in the Dominican Republic.How can ...
All the more reason you need a lawyer. Read More
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!
A couple months later, just wanted to add that I have been finding sugar-free peanut butter at various supermarkets, but only occasionally and unpredictably. (And there is a US imported "natural/organic" brand that has both a sugar-free and a sugary ... Read More
Cost of Living Abroad vs. Managing a Construction Cost Estimate by Mical Jhon
Hello everyone,As an expat planning finances, I’ve realized that budgeting for life in a new country feels very similar to how we plan and manage project costs in construction. While researching the cost of living for expats, I found that just ...
I'm curious... are these questions DR-specific, or are you asking in multiple forums?Are you looking for something different with today's question than you were with yesterday's?Are you asking for yourself (to help you plan your move to the DR, for ... Read More
Moving to Las Terrenas or Semana by Steverino7777
Hello,As I approach my 10th anniversary living seasonally in La Romana and Casa de Campo, I am seriously considering moving to a new winter home in the Las Terrenas / Semana area. I have only been to the cities of Semana and Las Terrenas but I am ...
@snowinpalm actually I was not asking about current conditions but about the upgrades and expansions and what they might portend for the future. People don't sink that much money and effort into projects unless they expect them to change something, ... Read More
How to find the property of a deceased person? by asortikov
Hi all!About three years ago, my aunt died, and I'm the only heir. She lived in Europe but owned property in the Dominican Republic. However, I don't have any precise information about her property or bank accounts in the Dominican Republic.How can ...
I can't see any way to accomplish this without, as Planner recommended, hiring a lawyer. I don't know your citizenship or your late aunt's, but at least two jurisdictions are involved (one that declared you the heir, another where the property is ... Read More
Moving to Las Terrenas or Semana by Steverino7777
Hello,As I approach my 10th anniversary living seasonally in La Romana and Casa de Campo, I am seriously considering moving to a new winter home in the Las Terrenas / Semana area. I have only been to the cities of Semana and Las Terrenas but I am ...
@Steverino not yet -- still bouncing around -- but strongly considering it. Walked the "bridge to nowhere" in the rain on Tuesday and let an overly persuasive street dog talk me out of my french fries on the malecón. The place has definitely ... Read More
Best ant killer available in the DR? by wondering9
I'm suddenly getting a lot of ants, despite being pretty religious about not leaving food out & washing up right after eating. My landlady says they do this every fall and recommends something called Baygon. I looked it up and it looks pretty ...
100% agree re: spiders!And, weird about the electrical wiring, but I found the same thing here, the ants were getting onto the desk by climbing up the laptop charging cord. If I missed any sandwich crumbs when cleaning up after lunch, they never ... Read More
best ant killer available in the DR?
I'm suddenly getting a lot of ants, despite being pretty religious about not leaving food out & washing up right after eating. My landlady says they do this every fall and recommends something called Baygon. I looked it up and it looks pretty ... Read More
Moving to Las Terrenas or Semana by Steverino7777
Hello,As I approach my 10th anniversary living seasonally in La Romana and Casa de Campo, I am seriously considering moving to a new winter home in the Las Terrenas / Semana area. I have only been to the cities of Semana and Las Terrenas but I am ...
No advice, just a question (and something that might be worth considering) about the city of Samaná: with the fabulous newly renovated malecón, and other construction (a cruise ship dock and highway widening, I think??), it seems like ... Read More
best way to transfer money from US to Dominican bank account
Any insights or opinions on the best way to transfer money from a US to a Dominican bank account?I've seen Remitly recommended here and I think that's what I'll end up going with, but I was curious about other options, especially Wise and Xe.My ... Read More
Road safety in Dominican Republic by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating roads and experiencing traffic in Dominican Republic as an expat can be a learning experience. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats stay safe on the road in Dominican ...
I've had a lot of chances to think about this topic lately while riding in vehicles driven by other people, from upscale taxi to Uber, big bus, guagua, carrito, and even an adorable 3-wheeled margarita (sp?).I know we talk a lot (justifiably) about ... Read More
Guagua etiquette by wondering9
Can anyone explain what the deal is with sitting in the front seat in a guagua? Can anybody sit there? How much extra does it cost (or does that vary with the route)? I've been trying to figure it out by watching, but I'm not picking it up. I would ...
or a giant person with a giant bag of stuff...once in a similar vehicle (not in the DR), someone got on with a jerrycan of gasoline and put it down right in front of the door. I decided at that point that a walk would do me good😂good to know ... Read More
guagua etiquette
Can anyone explain what the deal is with sitting in the front seat in a guagua? Can anybody sit there? How much extra does it cost (or does that vary with the route)? I've been trying to figure it out by watching, but I'm not picking it up. I would ... Read More
Rental Lease Term by GuestPoster10117585
Hi all, I know someone with rental properties who reached out to a lawyer and asked them if they could reduce the term on the lease from 1 year to 6 months after the contract is up. Basically a new contract for 6 months. They were told they cannot ...
I'd like to know more about this too. I thought I read something to that effect in a news article a few weeks ago, but law is complicated and news articles are short. I filed it under "tomorrow at Tara" for now, but it would be good to know. Read More
"Anything Goes" thread by planner
I have created a new thread where you are free to discuss any topics you want! Rules that apply: no name calling, no insulting. Feel free to exchange ideas on politics etc! I will ask to have this pinned so we don't lose it.This is where you can ...
I was on the road yesterday between Luperón and Imbert and there was an entire herd of cows in the road with three cowboys on horses. They were moving along at a pretty good clip and traffic managed to work around them.Some days this place is ... Read More
Anti Sex Tourism Raids in Sosua - will they work? Who knows by windeguy
By now most everyone in the DR has heard about the Attorney General trying to eradicate sex tourism in the DR. With a focus first and foremost on Sosua which has had more than a few days of raids by up to 600 police. Even the POTDR has mentioned ...
@wondering9 Is it demand or investments by expats for airbnb properties... - @DRVisitorSo, instead of "expats" lets say "expats and tourists." That's still not "the locals."Among "the locals," my guess is that the people who can afford to invest in ... Read More
Anti Sex Tourism Raids in Sosua - will they work? Who knows by windeguy
By now most everyone in the DR has heard about the Attorney General trying to eradicate sex tourism in the DR. With a focus first and foremost on Sosua which has had more than a few days of raids by up to 600 police. Even the POTDR has mentioned ...
Well said, and true! Read More
Road safety in Dominican Republic by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating roads and experiencing traffic in Dominican Republic as an expat can be a learning experience. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats stay safe on the road in Dominican ...
I just have to add this to the traffic thread... it is easy to kvetch about things (and I will gladly lead the chorus), but...Yesterday in Sosua i was making my usual scared-rabbit attempt to cross a busy street (the main drag), got to the other ... Read More
Anti Sex Tourism Raids in Sosua - will they work? Who knows by windeguy
By now most everyone in the DR has heard about the Attorney General trying to eradicate sex tourism in the DR. With a focus first and foremost on Sosua which has had more than a few days of raids by up to 600 police. Even the POTDR has mentioned ...
No, I'm an expat. The new construction isn't happening in a vaccuum, it's happening because there's demand from expats. Read More
Anti Sex Tourism Raids in Sosua - will they work? Who knows by windeguy
By now most everyone in the DR has heard about the Attorney General trying to eradicate sex tourism in the DR. With a focus first and foremost on Sosua which has had more than a few days of raids by up to 600 police. Even the POTDR has mentioned ...
But the locals complain cant afford the area anymore - cause and effect! Yes; we're the cause. Read More
Hurricane season 2025 by planner
Lets use this to track the storms that are on the way! Our last one Erin passed to the north of us and had few serious affects on us. I do not think we will always get this lucky so lets keep track of whats going on here!Currently we are watching ...
Colder water temperatures can slow a hurricane down, but I don't know if the water in the Mona Passage is colder than the surrounding ocean (just because it's turbulent) ... or even if so, if it's a big enough area for its temperature to affect a ... Read More
Challenges to hearing/speaking local Spanish by wondering9
I have been thinking about this ever since I got here -- how successfully getting around in Spanish is not just a question of ......vocabulary (including country-specific terms that even native speakers have trouble with)...grammar...rapid ...
Wouldn't miss it for the world.And /definitely/ agree with "practice beforehand' -- from learning the words to walking through the steps in as low-pressure an environment as possible (ie, before you urgently need them). It might feel like ... Read More
Challenges to hearing/speaking local Spanish
I have been thinking about this ever since I got here -- how successfully getting around in Spanish is not just a question of ......vocabulary (including country-specific terms that even native speakers have trouble with)...grammar...rapid ... Read More
OUCH!! I flunked the DR's "practical" Driving Test!!! by ExpatRusher
Woe is me. I must report a failure on my part. (after crowing about how I passed the written test with a great score, I figure I full disclosure on the practical test is appropriate). Late last week we went from Punta Cana over to the Intrant ...
First of all, @ExpatRusher congrats!!Second, I never realized that @Profe Agayu's method existed. That seems like something worth emphasizing. When new would-be residents are going through that initial process of gathering paperwork, it would be ... Read More
Road safety in Dominican Republic by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating roads and experiencing traffic in Dominican Republic as an expat can be a learning experience. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats stay safe on the road in Dominican ...
And then there are the motorcycles driving on the sidewalk ... that part of the sidewalk that hasn't already been creatively repurposed as office, salon, restaurant, potted plant repository, or garbage dump ... And just when you think you've got all ... Read More
Health Insurance Plan by alvarez7361
Hello all, I have been in Puerto Plata for over a year. I am trying to figure out which is the best medical insurance plan for a foreigner living in the DR? I appreciate any advice. Thanks in advance.
For the Senasa for over-65's, do foreigners have to have their cedula before we can apply? Read More
Inter-city cab or shuttle? by wondering9
In a couple of weeks I will need to get from Santo Domingo to Puerto Plata with a lot of luggage. I would like to find some kind of door-to-door taxi or shuttle service. I am searching by other means too, but I thought I'd ask here as well. Any ...
I used Santo Domingo Taxi from the airport when I first got here, and I thought they were fantastic! It didn't occur to me they'd go that far -- good to know. Read More
inter-city cab or shuttle?
In a couple of weeks I will need to get from Santo Domingo to Puerto Plata with a lot of luggage. I would like to find some kind of door-to-door taxi or shuttle service. I am searching by other means too, but I thought I'd ask here as well. Any ... Read More
Changes in Immigration policy by planner
Lishali and I were chatting! We started this thread to detail the changes that are happening! Lishali will post about them.By the way- her user was eliminated by Expat! So you will see her under a new name
I cannot imagine trying this without a lawyer (and I am a reasonably resilient person with middlin' Spanish) -- (1) because of the stress level, (2) because of the lawyer's practical inside knowledge (people have commented about how a good lawyer ... Read More
Anti Sex Tourism Raids in Sosua - will they work? Who knows by windeguy
By now most everyone in the DR has heard about the Attorney General trying to eradicate sex tourism in the DR. With a focus first and foremost on Sosua which has had more than a few days of raids by up to 600 police. Even the POTDR has mentioned ...
@Steverino7777@wondering9 And how is that? - @Steverino7777 I guess I don't understand the question "and how is that?" (What does "that" refer to?)When I was in Sosua recently, I didn't have any more (or less) trouble crossing the main drag to get ... Read More
Anti Sex Tourism Raids in Sosua - will they work? Who knows by windeguy
By now most everyone in the DR has heard about the Attorney General trying to eradicate sex tourism in the DR. With a focus first and foremost on Sosua which has had more than a few days of raids by up to 600 police. Even the POTDR has mentioned ...
Wait, there's someplace you can get to the beach without crossing a noisy street?/signed/newbie Read More