Moving to La Romana, the Dominican Republic
Last updated on Sep 06, 2023
Summary: Moving to La Romana, Dominican Rep? Expats talk about what you need to know before moving to La Romana.
What do I need to know before moving to La Romana?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to La Romana, they said:
"Expats moving to La Romana, Dominican Republic, should be aware of several factors to ensure a smooth transition. Firstly, it is essential to have a basic understanding of Spanish, as it is the official language and will help with daily interactions and settling in. English is spoken in tourist areas, but not as widely in other parts of the city. The cost of living in La Romana is generally lower than in many Western countries, but it is essential to budget for housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation. Expats should also be prepared for a slower pace of life, as the Dominican Republic is known for its laid-back atmosphere and "island time" mentality. Healthcare facilities in La Romana are limited, and expats may need to travel to the capital, Santo Domingo, for more specialized care. It is crucial to have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation if necessary. Safety is a concern in some areas of La Romana, and expats should take precautions to avoid becoming victims of crime. This includes being aware of surroundings, not displaying valuables, and avoiding certain neighborhoods, especially at night. The climate in La Romana is tropical, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. Expats should be prepared for this and take necessary precautions to stay cool and hydrated, as well as protect themselves from mosquitoes that can carry diseases such as dengue fever and Zika virus. Public transportation in La Romana is limited, and many expats choose to rent or purchase a car for convenience. However, driving in the Dominican Republic can be challenging due to aggressive driving habits and poorly maintained roads. Expats should familiarize themselves with local driving laws and customs. Finally, it is essential for expats to understand and respect the local culture and customs. Dominicans are known for their warm and friendly nature, and building relationships with locals can greatly enhance the expat experience in La Romana," explained one expat living in La Romana, the Dominican Republic.
How do I find a place to live in La Romana?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to La Romana?
- How do I find a place to live in La Romana?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in La Romana?
- What is the average cost of housing in La Romana?
- Should I buy or rent a home in La Romana?
- What should I pack when moving to La Romana?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in La Romana?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in La Romana?
- What are healthcare services like in La Romana?
- Is the cost of living in La Romana high?
- Will I save money living in La Romana?
- Why do people move to La Romana?
- How are healthcare services in La Romana?
- What are medical services in La Romana like?