Recent content by PCMissionary

What's the best way to ship our personal items back to Canada (Toronto) from the DR? We have lots of books, kids' bike, and small kitchen appliances but nothing substantial. We have barrels here, but I am hearing that the process of shipping BACK to Canada is not easy (due to drugs, etc). I...

Is it possible to renew our passports while being here in the DR or do we have to return to Canada to do so? What's the process? My wife and one of my children's passports expire in February and we don't want to be caught off guard. Any recommendations?

Well, I know it will work, but with what sort of restrictions, for example with the "Play" appstore? My wife has a Kindle Fire and she can't even download an app due to geographic restrictions here in the DR. Can I expect the same thing with the Nexus 7? Or is iPad our only option?

In your opinion, what's the best security/monitoring company in Santiago? Also, I work in a rough barrio (lots of drugs, piperros, etc.)... Is there a company that you can call in the case of an emergency rather than leaving it up to the police? Or if something happened to me, a number my wife...

What are the top English-learning schools here in Santiago. I know there are a ton, but some are of terrible quality. I'm looking to teach in a school with a reputation for quality and professionalism. If you were looking to teach English in Santiago, which school(s) would top your list? Why?

I have recently arrived in Santiago and we are looking for a terrific vehicle, preferably a USED 4x4 that seats 7 or 8. Something 5 years old would be good. I?ve heard all sorts of horror stories of buying here, from the prices to rolling back the mileage and everything in between. What?s the...

We are planning to arrive in the DR next (May 4th) to stay permanently. We'll be living in Santiago. We were just notified by our airline that as of April 30th, Canadians require proof of a return ticket. The wording is as follows: "You must also hold a return ticket or proof of onward...

I'm looking to rent a 3 bdrm home (a flat is fine, or a small house) in el centro of Santiago. Security is a must, as is Internet. If you have some suggestions on how best to go about getting a great place (not too upscale and not exclusive to ex-pats) that would be terrific. We would want it...

In doing some research for our upcoming move (me, wife and 5 kids), we've seen that the water problem is terrible in the DR - specifically around: 1. drinking water 2. shower water What kinds of precautions are people taking in regards to drinking water? For example, from having lived in...

Hi everyone, I've gotten some great info from this forum so far, but haven't officially introduced myself. My family and I will be moving to Santiago in May, long-term. I really appreciate the on-the-ground insight and sharing that takes place here. A tremendous resource. Thank you.

Is it better/cheaper to buy an unlocked phone in Canada/US (which is where I am) and simply get a SIM card with a plan in the DR once I arrive or just get a local phone with the plan?

In May, my family and I are moving permanently to the DR (starting in Santiago) from Canada (near Toronto). Is there a good, reliable, door-to-door moving company or freight-forwarder anyone can recommend?

Hola, I have a daughter who is looking to continue playing violin when we arrive in Santiago in May. Can anyone recommend either a terrific violin school or a teacher that would come to our home? Much appreciated!

Can anyone suggest a fairly OK neighborhood to live in Santiago (we'll be in that city for about 4 mths before moving on the La Vega permanently)? We are looking to be somewhat near el centro, if possible. Condos for rent/apts are fine. Are there any places that would do a short-term...

I was originally looking to go to Costa Rica to master Spanish before moving permanently to the DR. The schools there seem excellent, and the schools I found (online) in the DR seem to be more geared for tourists and partying, as opposed to getting-down-to-business learning. Are there any...