Moving to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Santo Domingo

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

I wish I had brought My best friend. I wish I had brought more money. I wish I had brought better Spanish...

I only came with what I could carry so I did leave everything pretty much.

What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

I would be sure to study Spanish as it makes the transition much easier. I would just come initially, if possible, for a six month period every year, and then go back. I would not buy anything for at least two years, until you decide that you really like it and until you have seen the entire country.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

I live in a furnished rental. I would certainly say that this is the way for anyone to plan to come here first and stay for a year or so and see if they really like it. There are not a lot of expats yet in the neighborhood but I predict that there will be.

It is the older elegant but sort of run down section of town, but one can walk to everything. It is a lot like NYC.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

I first came to a beach town but then found that for a single older intellectual woman, the capital was best. I took my time, found the pool, the library, the neighborhood I liked best, then the apartment, not the other way around.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Much lower. My two bedroom apartment with balconies and maid's room is $600 a month. To buy apartments here cost around $150k.