So I'm fairly new to the site. Actually found it through escapeartist.ca (or .com ?) The reason I came to DR1 - interested in moving there like so many other people.
From some of my reading on this site, I've learned my situation (or dream) is a pretty common thing. I am 25, living in Toronto Ontario. My first trip to DR was sometime back in the 80's. Over the years, I've been there many times - always on an AI vacation. However, my main interest of travel does not lie within the resorts of any country. I am intrigued with the local daily life, and particularily countries less fortunate than mine (some think I'm crazy!). I have travelled to other 3rd world countries (Thailand/India) but the DR has always had a spot in my heart, hence the fact I would like to live there.
Another thing I've always wanted to do is speak Spanish. Yes I can take courses, but they are not the answer for me. I've tried, learned a little - but I know when you are surrounded and living in a country that's speaks a certain language - you must and will learn. This I am determined.
So am I getting to a point? I would like to move to DR, and have read many many threads about this. #1 - is better to live there for a time-period (ie. 3-6 mnths). #2 - better to be there to find a job than from here in Canada.
I have a couple options that I'm trying to weigh out for myself and would appreciate some comments from anyone willing to help.
1- There are "study abroad" programs available to book through Canada, in which a person can go to Santo D. and learn Spanish at the university, while living with a host family. This costs approx. $1700 cdn/month. Classes are 4 hours/day (I think every day). I was thinking if I take this approach, I will start to learn the language, and have a chance to familiarize myself with DR.
2- A very good friend of mine here is married to a Dominican (both live here). Her family is in Puerto Plata. He offered to speak with his family, and I could stay with them... find a job etc.
I figure these are my best 2 options right now. Whatever I decide to do, one thing I know for sure (and has been enforced several times from reading) is go with lots of money to start off there. I was wondering in your opinions, which option is better, for what reason(s). RE: study abroad - would things like this be available simply through DR at a cheaper cost?
Any info is appreciated - thanks in advance. And for those who are now ready to 'slam' me - well I know it's to be expected.
Jan - thx for your email, I will definately be in touch. Where are you from? I am only familiar with the main 'tourist' cities, so if you could let me know which one you're closest to!
From some of my reading on this site, I've learned my situation (or dream) is a pretty common thing. I am 25, living in Toronto Ontario. My first trip to DR was sometime back in the 80's. Over the years, I've been there many times - always on an AI vacation. However, my main interest of travel does not lie within the resorts of any country. I am intrigued with the local daily life, and particularily countries less fortunate than mine (some think I'm crazy!). I have travelled to other 3rd world countries (Thailand/India) but the DR has always had a spot in my heart, hence the fact I would like to live there.
Another thing I've always wanted to do is speak Spanish. Yes I can take courses, but they are not the answer for me. I've tried, learned a little - but I know when you are surrounded and living in a country that's speaks a certain language - you must and will learn. This I am determined.
So am I getting to a point? I would like to move to DR, and have read many many threads about this. #1 - is better to live there for a time-period (ie. 3-6 mnths). #2 - better to be there to find a job than from here in Canada.
I have a couple options that I'm trying to weigh out for myself and would appreciate some comments from anyone willing to help.
1- There are "study abroad" programs available to book through Canada, in which a person can go to Santo D. and learn Spanish at the university, while living with a host family. This costs approx. $1700 cdn/month. Classes are 4 hours/day (I think every day). I was thinking if I take this approach, I will start to learn the language, and have a chance to familiarize myself with DR.
2- A very good friend of mine here is married to a Dominican (both live here). Her family is in Puerto Plata. He offered to speak with his family, and I could stay with them... find a job etc.
I figure these are my best 2 options right now. Whatever I decide to do, one thing I know for sure (and has been enforced several times from reading) is go with lots of money to start off there. I was wondering in your opinions, which option is better, for what reason(s). RE: study abroad - would things like this be available simply through DR at a cheaper cost?
Any info is appreciated - thanks in advance. And for those who are now ready to 'slam' me - well I know it's to be expected.
Jan - thx for your email, I will definately be in touch. Where are you from? I am only familiar with the main 'tourist' cities, so if you could let me know which one you're closest to!