LT American
American expat in Dominican Republic
Forum posts
86
Contacts
4
About me
American, Single
Lives in Las Terrenas, Saman脙¡
Speaks English and learning spanish.
Registration: 01 July 2021
Overstay payment DR Agency by CHRISTOPHER DAVID56
Forgive me if there is a topic on this I searched.Does anyone know the exact DR agency name and location other than the airport to pay an overstay fee GREATER than 12 months and departing within the next 2 weeks.I went to Malec贸n Central and ...
I imagine I could just leave . 馃槀 Read More
30-day time limit near by LadyYankee
Hello.聽 I am nearing the 30-day timeframe for visiting and I understand that I must leave DR.聽 I have not yet applied for a residency.聽 What do people usually do? Fly out to Puerto Rico for a day and then fly back?聽 That is the ...
People stay and pay at the airport when they leave. How long do you plan on staying? Read More
Overstay & opening a bank account
Hola. I have been here past 30 days. Am I able to pay my overstay fee at the airport and then qualify to open a bank account? Or does the bank look at the entry stamp in your passport. In years past, I return to the USA for 2 weeks per year and ... Read More
Overstay payment DR Agency by CHRISTOPHER DAVID56
Forgive me if there is a topic on this I searched.Does anyone know the exact DR agency name and location other than the airport to pay an overstay fee GREATER than 12 months and departing within the next 2 weeks.I went to Malec贸n Central and ...
Am I able to pay my overstay fee and then open a bank account. I have to pick up a friend at the airport so I thought that I would pay my fee. I don't have plans to leave in the next few months. Will paying the overstay fee allow me to open a bank ... Read More
Amazon ordering by annamayking19
how does Amazon work in Las Terrenas? Where does it get shipped to? Does it take long? Any info would be great.
Go to CPS at plaza colonial. The entrance is in the car park by "the boats" Todd, the owner is an American. He gives you a Miami address that you have Amazon ship to. It is then shipped to las terrenas. It takes about 3 to 4 days to las terrenas ... Read More
Overstay payment DR Agency by CHRISTOPHER DAVID56
Forgive me if there is a topic on this I searched.Does anyone know the exact DR agency name and location other than the airport to pay an overstay fee GREATER than 12 months and departing within the next 2 weeks.I went to Malec贸n Central and ...
@CHRISTOPHER DAVID56 . I was looking at opening a bank account and an executive with Banco Santa Cruz told me that you could pay at Banreservas. It is after all a state owned entity with an interest in expat banking services. I never followed up. I ... Read More
Chicken growing business
@monkeyseamonkeydoodoo why post this response? It doesn't make sense 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 ...
@rgwsf. Google Fi gives you a month of data while out if the country, but you can still text for free and makes calls over the network. The cost is 30 USD per month. That is why I have an Altice sim card as well. So my total phone bill between the 2 ... 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 ...
@ondami. I had Verizon when I moved. ( I didn't realize at the time I would live here 11 months out of the year). I didn't have the ultimate, however It worked well. I traveled by car around the country and needed google maps etc. I don't know your ... Read More
Rental leases by DRVisitor
I know different areas or people may provide different terms but is below the standard in general?6 month lease3 month security deposit and one month claimed to be one but kept by owner and not in the leaseMust paint the apartment on departure of ...
In Las Terrenas , I have paid 1 month deposit and two months deposit. So I do not think the scenario you are describing is the norm. I have always told the person from whom I am renting that I need to send the lease to my lawyer in Santiago. ... Read More
Residencia, import. Taxes and shipping by emetz55
I am getting my residency soon and we'll be building a house near Sosua. I hear different things some people tell me that the first shipment is tax free and my next question is what is the best way to ship a lot of household items but not ...
@L Alan Williams let's talk on Whatsapp. Please send PM with your number and we can go over the details Read More
Residencia, import. Taxes and shipping by emetz55
I am getting my residency soon and we'll be building a house near Sosua. I hear different things some people tell me that the first shipment is tax free and my next question is what is the best way to ship a lot of household items but not ...
I handle all types of freight to the Dominican republic. I live in here in the DR and originally from Georgia. Please feel free to message me and I can give you the information that you need, point you in the right direction or handle it for you Read More
New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2023 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 ...
@sofialovestravel welcome. To which town ate you moving? I also work in international development Read More
Furniture and meeting new people 馃槉 by couldbecool
Hi there my name is Carla and I鈥檓 from Canada. I am wanting to furnish an apartment that I bought here. I know there is IKEA, Ilumel and Ashley鈥檚 here but I am having a hard time finding what I like at a reasonable price. Not really ...
There are several furniture makers here on las terrenas. As you may already know, las terrenas can be very expensive for expats for many things. You really need to shop around ( ok understand that you don't know any hence the question) feel free to ... Read More
Dating advice for a mixed dominican/american woman moving to the DR? by sofialovestravel
Hi everyone! I am (f) turning 30 and moving to the Dominican Republic to care for my elderly grandmother in Santiago. Unfortunately, I am very removed from my culture. I am the only half-white person in my family. My Spanish is broken but passable, ...
I would not be concerned about the claim to catholic / old fashioned religious values that you may have read about in the DR. It must be a small select group hiding in the mountains. I would be patient and aware that your financial stability is ... Read More
New construction without water access by LT American
Good afternoon,I recall have read about a community along the north coast where they are building homes, but the homes have no water. I looked through the old posts but could not find anything. Does anyone know this community?
@SandyS_retired thanks. Is their a committee, Home owner association group that has details on the whole scope of the problem? Read More
which bank? by marcste
Just asking if any tales of the best bank to open an account with and why -- presume a savings and checking acct -- tried scotia so far and precious little info from them but maybe thats the norm
@planner that's what I was thinking Read More
which bank? by marcste
Just asking if any tales of the best bank to open an account with and why -- presume a savings and checking acct -- tried scotia so far and precious little info from them but maybe thats the norm
I am a US citizen, no tourist visa required, but have overstayed the 30 day period. I need to open a a bank account and Santa Cruz seems to be the best for me. If you have overstayed, can you pay a fee to the bank to open an account....if that is ... Read More
Heartbroken by Corruption by BahamianexpatDR
As I sit here at 2AM thinking about all that has transpired since I have arrived in the DR, my heart breaks, not only for this beautiful nation, but for me and the thought that I am considering leaving rather than face anymore attempts to swindle ...
@BahamianexpatDR I know a couple of lawyers who speak English. They are good people. One in Santiago with whom I do business is a good guy. I am sure you will get lots of solid recommendations on this site. Good luck and sorry about all of your ... Read More
New construction without water access
Good afternoon,I recall have read about a community along the north coast where they are building homes, but the homes have no water. I looked through the old posts but could not find anything. Does anyone know this community? Read More
New members of the Dominican Republic forum, introduce yourselves here - 2023 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 ...
@andrieawashington Hola.. live in Las Terrenas and from Augusta Georgia. I met some Canadians passing through Las Terrenas last year. They asked me " is it true that people from Georgia come down here during the summer to get AWAY from the heat?". I ... Read More
Sending cash to USA bank account by LT American
Good afternoon, I need to send cash to my USA bank account. Is western union the only option?
@Alfonso Ayala thanks. But when I say cash, I mean paper money in my pocket that needs to go to my USA account Read More
Pros and Cons between Scotiabank and Banco Popular? by Gylla
I am opening a bank account here in DR. I have heard mixed reviews about both banks. I was thinking about opening a Banco Popular account because their offices are everywhere. But a friend advised me that Scotia follows international banking laws ...
@ddmcghee good morning. Does Santa Cruz have English speakers here in Las Terrenas. My Spanish is good. But I do not want to make any mistakes with regards to international bank transfers Read More
Mail Forwarding companies? by crabelramble
I'm looking for current info on mail-forwarding companies and a primer on what needs to be done to use them. I've searched but came up empty. Is there already a topic that has that info?
I have a virtual address in the USA. They scan my mail and I can review it on the app or their website.聽They also offer forwarding services. They will forward packages for a feeI do not know, but I would guess that聽could forward to one of ... Read More
Sleeping medication by GuestPoster2709
When I last visited the DR (several years ago) I was able to purchase a small amount of sleeping medication, Novo Insomnium, over-the-counter at pharmacies to assist with sleep upon arrival. Is this still an option, or is a doctor's prescription now ...
@mr.jeremyfoster yes Read More
Sleeping medication by GuestPoster2709
When I last visited the DR (several years ago) I was able to purchase a small amount of sleeping medication, Novo Insomnium, over-the-counter at pharmacies to assist with sleep upon arrival. Is this still an option, or is a doctor's prescription now ...
I use Quetiap over the counter for sleeping. I take 100 mg and sleep through the night. No other medication available here works for me including Ambien. Would recommend 50mg. I have been taking sleep medication for a while 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 ...
@J D Sauser in March and April it was very quiet because of quarantine. Then on July 1 when the government opened the borders was a mess. Shortly their after in the capital I seem to recall a complete shutdown which was necessary.. I still don't ... 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 ...
All is normal, I see some young people wearing masks, but it seems to be a fashion statement 馃槀 Read More
Sending cash to USA bank account by LT American
Good afternoon, I need to send cash to my USA bank account. Is western union the only option?
How do you cash from your wallet into cash app? Read More
Sending cash to USA bank account by LT American
Good afternoon, I need to send cash to my USA bank account. Is western union the only option?
@Joseph Puig-Hill thanks 馃檹 Read More
Sending cash to USA bank account by LT American
Good afternoon, I need to send cash to my USA bank account. Is western union the only option?
Thanks. I will Google it. Read More
Sending cash to USA bank account
Good afternoon, I need to send cash to my USA bank account. Is western union the only option? Read More
GOLF CARTS IN LAS TERRENAS by goinforit
Can anyone confirm if insurance is required to drive a golf cart in Las Terrenas ?
I don't like posting guesses, but I have lived in LT for a while. A friend mine who lives here has golf cart for full time transportation. He told me he chose a golf cart because their is no registration.聽However he told me this over a year ago ... Read More
Illegals should be deported says Ito Bison贸 by windeguy
On November 14, 2022, the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Ito Bison贸, said that anyone that moves to the DR needs to respect the Dominican constitution, Dominican laws, the religion of Dominicans, Dominican culture... if not, they should ...
@windeguy why is this concerning? ( Well other than a hugely corrupt police force) Read More
Pesticides on Fruits & Vegetables 鈥� by Ian1272
My wife and I were discussing differences in living in the DR vs Canada.聽We acknowledge there will be many differences. Some differences will be welcomed, some not so much 鈥 big concern to my wife was is that there is no recycling ...
I work in agriculture. Pesticides and chemical fertilizers are used on all crops that I have seen. Most organic produce is exported because it has greater value and larger markets in Europe, US and Canada. As the person mentioned in this post. ... Read More
Buying a car in the Dominican Republic... by ppauley
I'm new to the 鈥渆xpat.com鈥� Dominican Republic forum, so please forgive me if my post鈥檚 question has been previously answered. My partner, Michelle, and I have recently purchased a villa near Sosu谩. We plan to arrive in ...
@WillieWeb I would guess freight cost and tarrif and ITBIS make it cost prohibitive What value did you declare? what were the freight and taxes if you do not mind sharing Read More
What do I miss the most living in DR? by polo1club
I was wondering if everyone has a certain thing they miss from home that is not available in DR?I think one of the things I would miss most would be Home Depot or Lowes. I know ferreterias have a lot of stuff but from past experience I spent weeks ...
Having crime taken seriously聽 Read More
Wiring in a new-build... by danimcdg34
Hi again.There is a concrete block house being built down the street.聽 All the walls are up but I don't see any allowances made for wiring or plumbing.聽 I watched some you- tube videos ( produced in USA) and homeowner was installing runs ...
I have a friend here in LT who a Canadian trained electrician. She stays very busy because of skills. She had often seen shoddy builds like this and you have to go back In a cut block etc.... personally I have seen builders with concept of a linear ... Read More
DR Real Estate Market by rlwoodz
I have watched the real estate market there and see a surge in new construction prices.聽 I've also talked to agents who say the same thing.聽 Driving prices are both demand and increased materials costs.聽 My focus has been on primarily ...
@larisaschiesser聽would love to see a Brazilian style house.聽 No idea what it looks like聽 Read More
Santo Domingo or Punta Cana? by Guest9467
Hi everyone!聽Looking to reside in DR for a few months. Just want to know if you have any advice on the infrastructure in SD vs PC? I work remotely so rely heavily on electricity and stable internet connections. Any advice is appreciated. ...
@planner聽Iived in Bella Vista for about 7 months. It made the capital tolerable for me聽 Read More
Septic systems for new construction by danimcdg34
I am investigation building a small house ( 60 sq meters) on a large property ( 2 acres) close to the Rio Yasica ( north shore).聽 Can anyone help me out with what options there are for a septic system in this area?
@DominicanadaMike聽how do you do that? Read More
Can you imagine this.... by planner
All those times we say: can you imagine this in ...... Insert country name......For example one day I saw a moto with 5 people on it and the dad was backwards on the back holding a washer spindryer machine!!!!聽
@planner聽I was speaking with 2 friends here in LT...one moved here in 1988 and the other in 1999.....they are still surprised to this day after so many years what they see on a moto.....I saw a 200 lb Marlin once draped across the back Read More
The CONFOTUR LAW and its benefits by Kat11
When looking in Punta Cana at New Villas or condos there is a law that applies...the CONFOTUR Law No.158-01 which is "Promotion of Tourism". The law is aimed at projects in tourist real estate destinations in order to encourage tourism in ...
You form a Corporation in the Dominican Republic. The corporation owns the property. Then you apply for the Confotur permit...many lawyers see this as an opportunity to retire on the fees. Lol..so shop around. When you apply for the permit you ... Read More
DR Real Estate Market by rlwoodz
I have watched the real estate market there and see a surge in new construction prices.聽 I've also talked to agents who say the same thing.聽 Driving prices are both demand and increased materials costs.聽 My focus has been on primarily ...
@Aurin Disla聽I import building materials....would love to speak Read More
DR Real Estate Market by rlwoodz
I have watched the real estate market there and see a surge in new construction prices.聽 I've also talked to agents who say the same thing.聽 Driving prices are both demand and increased materials costs.聽 My focus has been on primarily ...
@ddmcghee聽I agree. I don't think the mega development, The Reef, is close to breaking ground. No permits and agressive advertising is a bad mix. Have you heard anything recently on this?聽 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 ...
@polo1club聽Of course! I'll send info later today 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 ...
Of course! I'll send info later today Read More
EdeSur and electrical billing issues by lmclmf2009
Has anyone else been experiencing REDICULOUS increases in their electricity usage?聽 When covid began, out of nowhere my electricity doubled and the excuse I was given was it is because I am home more often now so I probably didn't notice that ...
@lmclmf2009聽good morning. I am in Las Terrenas on the beach so I have a nice breeze. But I did turn my AC for about 15 minutes 1 time during the billing cycle. 1 Time.聽 My electric bill increased by 80%.聽 We are billed 14.9 DOP per ... 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 ...
@polo1club聽I have PDF files but I am unable to share my email address on this forum because the rules. Any ideas on how to share information 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 ...
@ddmcghee聽 of course, can you PM me ...or email. *** 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 have a solar power unit that pulls humidity from the air, and filters it into pure drinking water. 6000 liters per day.聽 Read More
Buying a property in Las Terrenas by tommykair20
Have any of you experience paying lawyers to deal with real estate paperwork in LT? How much have a lawyer charge you to do a promise of purchase (and notarized it) in Las Terrenas?Reason im asking is because im hearing some crazy numbers compare to ...
Yes, Las Terrenas is the wild West as we say in the USA..I am assisting some builders in getting the Confotur permits because the lawyers here see one client and think I am going to retire Read More
Stunning ocean view property for sale
Would you private message Google maps location Read More
eTicket requirement being enforced! by ddmcghee
Looks like after months of planned deadlines, the eTicket is finally being required and its use is being enforced! I only have experience with American Airlines, but I know that they have been listing it as part of their flight readiness checklist ...
https://eticket.migracion.gob.do/ Read More
eTicket requirement being enforced! by ddmcghee
Looks like after months of planned deadlines, the eTicket is finally being required and its use is being enforced! I only have experience with American Airlines, but I know that they have been listing it as part of their flight readiness checklist ...
@huddleston1聽thanks, I have lived here over 2 years and have not filled out the eTicket when I return to the USA. Will do so now Read More
eTicket requirement being enforced! by ddmcghee
Looks like after months of planned deadlines, the eTicket is finally being required and its use is being enforced! I only have experience with American Airlines, but I know that they have been listing it as part of their flight readiness checklist ...
Do you fill out the same eTicket form online that you fill out out to enter the country...Just exit information? Read More
eTicket requirement being enforced! by ddmcghee
Looks like after months of planned deadlines, the eTicket is finally being required and its use is being enforced! I only have experience with American Airlines, but I know that they have been listing it as part of their flight readiness checklist ...
Do USA citizens need an eTicket to return to the USA? All that I found was covid test requirement.聽 Read More
SEMANA SANTA IN LAS TERRENAS by goinforit
I have heard to expect a crazy week in LT over the week of Easter. Would be interested in hearing from longer term expats on what things will be like around town that week.
I will definitely leave Las Terrenas next year. I stayed...mistake! Power grid was overloaded so power on and off for 4 fays Read More
Is Lyft available, or only Uber? by Covenant
I arrive Punta Cana tonight. Thinking I should add Uber app just in case. But if someone knows for sure there is Lyft I won鈥檛 add Uber to my plethora of apps. Thanks in advance.
DiDi is a service like Uber that is set up the same way. Just download the app. It is good in the capital and less expensive. I have no idea if it is anywhere else Read More
Noise and the DR - Be Warned by Guest2022
Excess noise is a common complaint from expats living and visiting the Dominican Republic. Living in the capital can be painful for those who like peace and tranquility. The noise from constant traffic alone can be uncomfortable, but add to that ...
A lot of people..thinning out now as it Sunday evening and bad weather Read More
The best age to move to the Dominican Republic by Cheryl
Hello everybody, No two people experience expatriation in Dominican Republic in the same way, depending on their age and personal situation. We would like to know more about you and ask you to share with us when you decided to move to the ...
I live in Las terrenas age 51Their is a good number of 20s and 30s聽 and the next big group and the largest is i 60+聽 Read More
CONSTRUCTION BUDGET/ESTIMATION by Guest6873
Is there a prevailing rate - $ or pesos/square meter - for new home construction in the DR. Will this rate vary depending where in the DR the house is being built? People never give a fixed fee - always some additional fees somewhere. Very ...
that is great information. I do import building materials and the world price increases congruent here in the DR. Obviously I will not import all the building materials, so did you call the block, rebar, cement distributors to get prices? Read More
eTicket requirement being enforced! by ddmcghee
Looks like after months of planned deadlines, the eTicket is finally being required and its use is being enforced! I only have experience with American Airlines, but I know that they have been listing it as part of their flight readiness checklist ...
i would print the form out and bring it with you when you check in at the airport. Last year, I submitted online and printed out the form. When I arrived at the airport in the USA, the online form had not gone through the system. The guy at the ... Read More
covid test before a flight by LT American
Good day everyone. I am going to the Capital a few days before my flight back to the US. Where can I get a covid test. How quickly am I able to recieve the results?
I think it's best Read More
covid test before a flight by LT American
Good day everyone. I am going to the Capital a few days before my flight back to the US. Where can I get a covid test. How quickly am I able to recieve the results?
thanks, Found the labs on US embassy website Read More
covid test before a flight by LT American
Good day everyone. I am going to the Capital a few days before my flight back to the US. Where can I get a covid test. How quickly am I able to recieve the results?
In las Terranas? Will it still be valid six days later? Read More
covid test before a flight by LT American
Good day everyone. I am going to the Capital a few days before my flight back to the US. Where can I get a covid test. How quickly am I able to recieve the results?
thanks, do you know what is needed for to travel back to the US. I can certainly look it up, but if you know.... Read More
covid test before a flight by LT American
Good day everyone. I am going to the Capital a few days before my flight back to the US. Where can I get a covid test. How quickly am I able to recieve the results?
I am in Las Terranas but I am going to the capital on monday for 6 days before I leave Read More
covid test before a flight
Good day everyone. I am going to the Capital a few days before my flight back to the US. Where can I get a covid test. How quickly am I able to recieve the results? Read More
Electricity from municipality by Meleger
Hello. I wanted to clarify something about electricity prices. If you live in a community or a condo complex they will provide the electricity for you and probably will have back up generators. So this is more expensive. I asked around and seems ...
Where are from in Tennessee. I am from Chattanooga and live in las Terranas Read More
Noise and the DR - Be Warned by Guest2022
Excess noise is a common complaint from expats living and visiting the Dominican Republic. Living in the capital can be painful for those who like peace and tranquility. The noise from constant traffic alone can be uncomfortable, but add to that ...
Bonita, Coson, near portillo or in the hills . I looked at a home on a hill between las terranas center and Bonita. Very quiet and 10 minutes to Pola. A few minutes to playa Bonita Read More
Return Ticket / Voucher, is it important?? by ledimerkaj17
Hi guys, I am traveling from Ukraine to La Romana in a week to visit Santo Domingo and many other cities. I didn't want to buy an all-inclusive package or to come with an agency because I want to visit everything on my own and live like locals ...
A return Ticket is required. On my last trip here from the USA in January, all of the e-ticket, proof of health registration was required. I bought a return ticket The day before I left the USA and had the confirmation printed and on my phone. I ... Read More
Las Terrenas by angelx
Hello Expats. I鈥檝e lived in the DR for two years this September. I鈥檝e lived in Santo Domingo (Zona Colonial) 6 months and the rest in Jarabacoa. I鈥檓 VERY ready to move again and would like to move Las Terrenas. I had a ...
If it's a few days, just Airbnb is best. I'll be happy to show you around or answer any questions. Send a message and I'll give my WhatsApp Read More
Electricity bill by Gman123
All you people living in med or sm houses who use their ac in the day and as needed at night what kind of electricity bill do you pay every month? I just got my first bill and I want to compare. I live in Puerto Plata.
I have a studio in las terranas. I turn on the AC for about 2 hours before I go to bed. With a ceiling fan on low, I am very comfortable all night. I like a cool room. Last bill was 875 peso Read More