Moving To DR

[SamyD]

We are planning on visiting DR/Sosua March 12 2007, spend couple of weeks studying the area that every one we talked to raves about. We are planning if all is half as good as have been told, we are going to sell every thing here in FL/USA and move there.
Of course we have many questions:
1- We don't speak any spanish but willing to go to school and learn it.
2- How easy to get medical insurance for a family of 2 considering I am 67years young.. and my wife is 59, does age matter?
3- Should we rent for a while before buying?
4- It looks like we are out of luck bringing any of our cars there, as my 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee is more than 5 years old although it has only 35000 miles and looks like showroom condition. Is it true they do not allow cars more than 5 years old??? and how much approximately we have to pay for a descent car there?
5- How safe is the area? Is there much crime ?
We appreciate your input and replies.
Samy and Co.

[admin]

Hi Samy

Welcome to the DR. We've been here 6 months and it gets better every day. But like everywhere, don't expect a problem free life! You'll need to come with an open mind and prepare to relax & re-adjust!!

To answer your questions...

--1- We don't speak any spanish but willing to go to school and learn it.
Yes, or get a private teacher when you are here, at reasonable rates. Learning Spanish will make your life a lot easier.
--2- How easy to get medical insurance for a family of 2 considering I am 67years young.. and my wife is 59, does age matter?
Plenty of health insurance providers, but I know the one we use has a cut-off point of 65. Others may not. Also, before you come, check if you can get a US worldwide cover.
--3- Should we rent for a while before buying?
Yes, makes sense to live in an area before you commit all your money.
--4- It looks like we are out of luck bringing any of our cars there, as my --2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee is more than 5 years old although it has only --35000 miles and looks like showroom condition. Is it true they do ----not allow cars more than 5 years old??? and how much approximately we have to pay for a descent car there?
Yes, don't bother trying to bring a car over. Cars are more expensive than the US. look on supercarros.com for some idea on price, or check the classifieds section on hoy.co.do.
--5- How safe is the area? Is there much crime ?
Yes, there is crime, as there is in Florida. But I'd say it's safer than many US cities, IMO. All the usual things apply, don't flash jewelry around, don't get mixed up with dodgy people, and keep your senses

Hope this helps
Zach

[SamyD]

Zach, thank you for your reply and we appreciate your input
Samy

[mountainfrog]

[admin]

yes, good advice, particularly if you haven't been here before.