DRCulture
American looking for information about Dominican Republic
Forum posts
74
Contacts
2
About me
American
Lives in Las Canas, Puerto Plata
Registration: 16 February 2022
Real estate attorney by gainkeeper
Buying a house. What was the name, phone number and location of the real estate attorney that has been highly recommended several times here?
Thank you both. i was hoping someone on the platform could recommend someone in the area. I have looked myself, but have seen so many posts and others warn about not getting a good attorney. I have had a sketchy experience with one and the other ... Read More
Real estate attorney by gainkeeper
Buying a house. What was the name, phone number and location of the real estate attorney that has been highly recommended several times here?
@planner Their email and website say they are located in Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, and one other place I believe (without me going back to look). But I thought that meant where they were located and not just the areas they serve. Is there ... Read More
Real estate attorney by gainkeeper
Buying a house. What was the name, phone number and location of the real estate attorney that has been highly recommended several times here?
Has anyone heard anything good or bad about DR Legal Shield? I received an email about their business and since I am looking for a new attorney, I thought I would check here first. It is for real estate near Cabarete. Read More
Property Management - Washer& Dryer Installation Help Needed
Hi Everyone! Can you recommend anyone who is on the North Coast near Gaspar Hernandez, about 25 minutes from Cabarete, who can install a stackable washer and dryer for me?Can you recommend any property managers for the same area? Read More
Property Management North Coast by DRCulture
Hi Everyone! I have two questions. Can you share with me what the expectations are for property managers in the Dominican? I want to adjust my expectations to the culture there. For example, I wonder if I am thinking things like keeping track of ...
I checked out the Facebook post a few times I did not see anything about property management. I think it may be the wrong link. Read More
Verizon Unlimited Ultimate Plan by ondami
Good morning allI keep reading forum posts about cell phones in DR. I have checked into the Verizon Unlimited Ultimate plan which, according to the company, allows one to use their current smartphone while in DR to make calls, text, and stream (plus ...
@Tripp789What you mention about the $10 daily ($100 month) is what my Verizon plan charges. I try hard to remember to have people call me on WhatsApp otherwise I end with it costing me sooooo much! Read More
Property Management North Coast by DRCulture
Hi Everyone! I have two questions. Can you share with me what the expectations are for property managers in the Dominican? I want to adjust my expectations to the culture there. For example, I wonder if I am thinking things like keeping track of ...
Thanks i will check them out Read More
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. ...
Wishing you the best and wisdom for your doctors take care! Read More
Property Management North Coast
Hi Everyone! I have two questions. Can you share with me what the expectations are for property managers in the Dominican? I want to adjust my expectations to the culture there. For example, I wonder if I am thinking things like keeping track of ... Read More
Murphy Bed
Hi,Does anyone know where I can purchase a murphy bed in the DR? Preferably someplace in the north coast area. I am trying to maximize the use of a small studio apartment space. Read More
New look at illegal foreigners by planner
Article today stating Haitian foreign nationals purchased more real estate here in the 1st quarter than Americans or Canadians. Now the govt calling for analysis of illegal foreigners purchasing here!
Can I clarify? It is ok to own property without being a resident, correct? However even come to the DR, the expectation is that you are there legally. You don鈥檛 have to a resident to own property or do you? I see so much marketing and ... Read More
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 ...
@ddmcghee(Look of horror on my face) I will do my best to proceed with caution!!! Read More
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 ...
@plannerIt is a house. I did already say it was North Coast near Gaspar Hernandez. If a little more specifics are needed, it is Las Canas (right next door to Gaspar). Read More
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 ...
@nulookreiThank you for the recommendations and offer to provide information. I would definitely like to connect!! Read More
Security System Installation
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 ... Read More
Medical Story, a bit long! by planner
While we can find good medical care here sometimes it is hit and miss. My story is about more misses than hits for over 3 years. What I did not do was stop looking for the right doctor to help me. I went through 5 gastroenterologists! ...
I鈥檓 glad you found good, respectful help. It is encouraging. Also a reminder to be an advocate for myself. Read More
Puerto Plata - Need a Creditable Real Estate Attorney by ervin1232000
Does anyone have the name and contact information for a creditable and honest Real Estate Attorney that works in the Puerto Plata area of the Dominican Republic?
I have an attorney that has been wonderful. I鈥檓 not sure how to use the private message feature but will try to send you her name. Read More
Rust & Corrosion of Metal by DRCulture
Hola Everyone!What do you do to decrease rust and corrosion that can be caused by the salt water and air? I don't expect to prevent it forever, but certainly would like to put some preventative measures in place. I have stayed a few Airbnb's and ...
@FredThank you. Since it鈥檚 like magic, it is definitely going on my shopping list along with WD40. 馃 Read More
Rust & Corrosion of Metal by DRCulture
Hola Everyone!What do you do to decrease rust and corrosion that can be caused by the salt water and air? I don't expect to prevent it forever, but certainly would like to put some preventative measures in place. I have stayed a few Airbnb's and ...
@crabelramble Thanks, I read that article when doing some research. Have you tried any of the suggestions specifically? If so what worked for you? Read More
Rust & Corrosion of Metal by DRCulture
Hola Everyone!What do you do to decrease rust and corrosion that can be caused by the salt water and air? I don't expect to prevent it forever, but certainly would like to put some preventative measures in place. I have stayed a few Airbnb's and ...
@Tripp789 Thanks. I considered that but then wondered since I鈥檝e only used it with squeaky hinges. I鈥檓 going to try it. Read More
Rust & Corrosion of Metal
Hola Everyone!What do you do to decrease rust and corrosion that can be caused by the salt water and air? I don't expect to prevent it forever, but certainly would like to put some preventative measures in place. I have stayed a few Airbnb's and ... Read More
Villa House Signs by DRCulture
Hi, Does anyone know where I can purchase a villa house sign? I am hoping there is some place near Sosua/Cabarete. I am trying to attach an example of what I mean. How long does it take to have a sign made and do places deliver?
@ddmcghee Thank you, I will take a look and reach out to him. Read More
Villa House Signs by DRCulture
Hi, Does anyone know where I can purchase a villa house sign? I am hoping there is some place near Sosua/Cabarete. I am trying to attach an example of what I mean. How long does it take to have a sign made and do places deliver?
@planner,Thank you for your response. I don鈥檛 want that sign though it is cute. I am wondering if there is a place to buy any signs. I see mostly on roads with no addresses signs that let visitors know they are at the right house. For example ... Read More
Villa House Signs
Hi, Does anyone know where I can purchase a villa house sign? I am hoping there is some place near Sosua/Cabarete. I am trying to attach an example of what I mean. How long does it take to have a sign made and do places deliver? Read More
Furniture Packages in Punta cana by Ethen Royal
Hello, I am trying to get some solid answers on furniture packages in Punta Cana. I just purchased a villa that hasn't been fully completed yet, but in the meantime I am trying to locate places that have furniture and appliance packages. On the site ...
@kalinatrajkov, Hi! Would you please share the information with me too about furniture packages. I am in Las Canas. I appreciate you telling us here about this option. My life maybe just got a lot easier. Thank you! Read More
Drink spiking experiences? by emerald788
Has anybody had problems in bars with their drinks being spiked, maybe by dishonest bartenders who want you to spend more or have other agendas?As I am relatively new to the DR, I wanted to get an idea from more experienced members of how common the ...
I have not experienced this or heard of it in 1-1/2 years. Though I am not full time yet. Read More
Startlink installers in the DR by crabelramble
Ya, I know it's self-install! Unfortunately, I can't do that kind of work anymore.Have any of you Starlink users here dealt with a company or qualified person for your installation?I have a two-story, flat-roofed concrete home with no surrounding ...
I am interested in learning more: "BTW, the details of working with the people who did the floor work be a good primer course for people who want to understand the potential trials and tribulations of dealing with Dominican tradesmen."I have just ... Read More
Post-Covid-19 situation in Dominican Republic by Mickael
Hello everyone, [b]The COVID-19 pandemic[/b] had a huge impact on the world, including on expats' lives. Travel restrictions, business closures, budget cuts, and health measures have created unprecedented challenges for those who have chosen to ...
Things seem to be status quo in Cabarete and Sosua. BUT, I should add that I haven't been any place medical or government. In February I went to the vet and no one had on masks. Read More
GPS map for DR by SandyS_retired
I'm looking for a DR street map for my Garmin Nuvi device. Garmin has a map for Central America, but I don't think that's what I'm looking for... it appears to be a marine map, not a street map.Any suggestions for the best place online buy and ...
LOL, Maybe a year ago I went to Monkey Jungle and Google gave me short cut directions. I took me down a desolate road, I needed an ATV, Jeep, some major vehicle. It was terrible. My kids and I were praying. We were not sure we would live to ... Read More
Traveling with pets from DR to US by DRCulture
Hi, I am hoping for updated information on traveling with pets. I am in the DR and want to travel back with a cat that I am rescuing. I also have a dog that I want to be able to bring to the DR and take back home to US with me as we travel back ...
I understand why the US is trying to protect against rabies, but my gosh, they sure make it difficult. My little sheltered dog is of low risk contracting rabies because he seldom alone and doesn't even like other dogs. The cat is a kitten who is ... Read More
Traveling with pets from DR to US by DRCulture
Hi, I am hoping for updated information on traveling with pets. I am in the DR and want to travel back with a cat that I am rescuing. I also have a dog that I want to be able to bring to the DR and take back home to US with me as we travel back ...
@tpondo97 Thank you for the information. Currently the link is under review so I can't see it, but I will look based on title. Read More
Traveling with pets from DR to US by DRCulture
Hi, I am hoping for updated information on traveling with pets. I am in the DR and want to travel back with a cat that I am rescuing. I also have a dog that I want to be able to bring to the DR and take back home to US with me as we travel back ...
@WillieWeb Thank you for the information. I appreciate it! Read More
Traveling with pets from DR to US
Hi, I am hoping for updated information on traveling with pets. I am in the DR and want to travel back with a cat that I am rescuing. I also have a dog that I want to be able to bring to the DR and take back home to US with me as we travel back ... Read More
House Sitters 鈥� Las Terrenas by Ian1272
Its my wife鈥檚 and my intention to retire to and purchase a Villa in Las Terrenas, and travel back to Canada in the summer.Would it be difficult to find trustworthy, honest responsible person/couple to live in one鈥檚 Villa in Las Terrenas ...
I recommend using a property manager. I have someone that is for year round. I have a realtor that also does property management. I think it is DR Oceanview and her name is Denise Bess. She might be able to recommend some other people if she is ... Read More
Inheritance by lspriggs0325
Hello, Not sure if this message is posting so I am resending. My father passed away last week. He did not have a will but left a house. My mother is alive and there are 4 siblings including me. I understand that she will receive 50% of his ...
When I purchased property this year, I had my husband鈥檚 and my daughter鈥檚 names added to everything. My attorney had them included in the tax records as well. she said we are all set for inheritance if anything should happen to me. Read More
Anti Dominican Sentiment on this Forum by Guest2022
It is clear to me that certain posters have anti Dominican agendas on this forum.To them this is a banana republic and will be for ever. I am married to a Dominican and she just graduated last week and to me that it is demonstration this country is ...
@lennoxnev聽 I too hope you will remain. I joined in maybe January or so. I read some posts here and they scare me and cause a little apprehension and others that are so positive and warming. Yet others encourage balance in seeing both sides and ... Read More
Flying with Prescriptions into DR by DRVisitor
It seems you are not allowed pill cases but should travel with prescribed container. Can someone confirm...Anyone using pill cases been stopped?
I travel all the time in the US and outside of the US including to DR.聽 No one has ever questioned me about my meds being in a pill case.聽 That does not mean that I should not have had them in the prescription bottle.聽 Amazon had cute ... Read More
Home security on Las Terrenas by Freedmeister
We are in the process of buying an older house in the "El Centro" area. It has a low wall in the front and high wall on one side and the back where it borders hotel/Condo complexes. There is nothing between the neighbor's house, which ...
Is their a place you can purchase spikes to up atop the wall? And are a type of 聽burning bush in the DR? This bush has wicked thorns but is used as landscaping. - @Elgin7144@Elgin7144 you mention a bush in DR.聽 My contractor suggested the ... Read More
Water filters - whole house vs drinking/cooking only by planner
I need everyone's help now. I do not have any info on water filtration systems available here or any idea on current costing. Tell me - what are my options for a whole house? What are my options for just drinking and cooking water? Remember ...
I will also send a pm for more info. Thanks! Read More
Having pets (Cats Dogs) while in DR by Conifer
Lately I come across so many people that took in pets as temporary expat in DR. 聽They have to leave or return home for whatever reason, and they LEAVE the pets behind. 聽It's not fair for the animals.What is so hard about taking ...
Do you think expats would take their pets if it were easier to do? 聽I want to bring my dog to the DR when I come to work on things, but I can鈥檛 easily bring him back to US with me. All of the rules are a nightmare. It鈥檚 easy to get ... Read More
Having pets (Cats Dogs) while in DR by Conifer
Lately I come across so many people that took in pets as temporary expat in DR. 聽They have to leave or return home for whatever reason, and they LEAVE the pets behind. 聽It's not fair for the animals.What is so hard about taking ...
@RockyM聽Oh my gosh, you said poisoning.聽聽聽That is horrible.聽My house in DR is not ready yet and my family won't even travel all at once because we cannot easily bring our dog back and forth. We love our fur baby and dogs in ... Read More
Tipping for Services / Propina by Stacy ST
What is the standard in DR for tipping on services (i.e. haircuts, massages, facials)? I know that tipping here is not like in the US, so was curious what is everyone's thoughts/experiences with tipping for these types of services.
I really appreciate how all of you are generous with your time and information. I continue to absorb so much helpful information. Thank you! 聽Hopefully I will eventually be able to contribute and help someone else too.聽 Read More
Tipping for Services / Propina by Stacy ST
What is the standard in DR for tipping on services (i.e. haircuts, massages, facials)? I know that tipping here is not like in the US, so was curious what is everyone's thoughts/experiences with tipping for these types of services.
@DRVisitor聽 What do you mean by "I always tip at the restaurants but hate how they add the extra % on because it takes away from the waiter/waitress?"I ask because I was told the tip was already on the receipt by one person.聽 Then another ... Read More
Any Regrets by JoshGV143
My wife & I have started discussing what we would ship down vs. sell/donate/not bring鈥re there any regrets of items you wish you had brought, but didn鈥檛? Or vice-versa, things you brought that you really have no use for in the DR? ...
Responses have been so helpful! Great question and I appreciate the responses.What about generators?聽 Is this something you recommend bringing or purchasing in the DR.聽 I聽 closed on a home near Las Canas in April, but I don't have ... Read More
Hurricane Planning by WillieWeb
Here are some good tips for preparing for the hurricane season written by a fellow who has experience in the matter . This year (2021) is predicted to be another active one. ====================================================== I ...
Thank you all for the helpful information! Read More
Hurricane Planning by WillieWeb
Here are some good tips for preparing for the hurricane season written by a fellow who has experience in the matter . This year (2021) is predicted to be another active one. ====================================================== I ...
Lennoxnev,聽Thank you for the information.聽 What are some ways you recommend preparing for hurricane season? Right now,聽 I am not sure I will be there in person during hurricane season.聽 I have done some research on ... Read More
Dogs in DR by Guest2022
I read about expats bringing and taking dogs to/from DR and those that have found on here too.And one of our posters is involved with recovery of stray dogs as I recall. Dogs typically are treated badly here.It wasn't my immediate plan to get ...
Also, those of us used to domestic animals tend to look at the strays and think they are starving! A starving dog will eat just about anything, right? Next time you see a beach or a street dog, offer them a vegetable, even a french fry, and watch ... Read More
Electricity in the DR by planner
This needs its own thread. We whine and complain about electricity in this country all the time. Its expensive, its inefficient and bloody corrupt. Lets hope the gov't takes a look at it soon! From Dominican Today: [b]Electricity Distributors ...
Awesome!聽 Did you know there is a limit to the amount of solar installations allowed by area?聽 Yup, it needs approval! I am sure your engineers have that.聽It appears to be counter productive in a country with so many聽... - ... Read More
Thinking of Purchasing 2 Bed Villa in Res Hispanolia as Rental Unit
Thanks for the link to your book! Read More
Insurance for Investment Properties in DR by Burgs
hi all, Hoping someone might be able to help us. My husband and I fell in love with Las Terrenas on a recent visit and are now thinking of buying a condo to use as an investment property until we are ready to retire in a few years, and the use the ...
@Allor925 Thanks for the information about Universal. I have reached out to them to get a quote on home owners and civil liability insurance! Read More
Question about internet service by Alicia55
I鈥檓 living in the US and have Comcast for internet but have my own modem and router because I didn鈥檛 want to use theirs. When I come to DR and get internet service ...my parents have altice for internet.... can I use this modem and ...
I have used Hola free VPN extension when traveling to other countries. It has worked great. I have not used it in DR yet because I haven鈥檛 had time to watch anything when there. Read More
capital gains tax in DR by carolmarchena
Hello Everyone, I tried to find any information regarding capital gains tax in DR forum but found nothing. So here I am creating a new topic. IS CAPITAL GAINS TAX APPLIED DIFFERENTLY IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC THAN SAY USA? If anyone has info ...
Thanks Planner! I will be reaching out to her. Read More
capital gains tax in DR by carolmarchena
Hello Everyone, I tried to find any information regarding capital gains tax in DR forum but found nothing. So here I am creating a new topic. IS CAPITAL GAINS TAX APPLIED DIFFERENTLY IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC THAN SAY USA? If anyone has info ...
Here you go Robin Boyd 216-200-3478. Her number and WhatsApp! She does accounting/ consulting for Americans here and those who live in both places!Hi Planner, does Robin speak English? I would be interested in contacting her too. I would like to ... Read More
Purchasing a condo in Sosua by vixenmartine
Buenos Dias, I am a business woman from NYC looking to expand my short term rental biz in DR. I have decided to establish myself in Sosua based on my research. I have been here for less than a month and my plan was to run my online consulting biz ...
I am not a resident and am in the process of purchasing a home about 15 mins from Sosua. I will likely use it as an Airbnb for a little bit. It鈥檚 not my long term goal. I have a property manager who will handle rentals for me. Read More
The driving force of your expatriation in Dominican Republic by Diksha
Hello everybody, Moving abroad, to a destination such as the Dominican Republic, is often the result of careful consideration. It is a major life decision and one that should not be taken lightly as the implications are so diverse. We would like ...
I have not moved. I am in the process of purchasing a home. As Planner mentioned, it seems everything is difficult. I am patient to a fault with people and situations. However, I am finding things like getting an home owners insurance quote, ... Read More
New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2022 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 ...
I am looking forward to being a part of this community. I stumbled upon the group today and found helpful information. So, I decided to join. I know I do not have a lot of information to contribute, but one day soon I hope to. In the process of ... Read More