I saw a recent thread that touched on expats fitting in here in the DR.
I would like to say that it is fairly obvious if one is very light skinned with light colored hair one would be assumed to be foreigner, especially in the tourist areas. However, this happens to light skinned Dominicans as well.
With regard to actually fitting into the society as a foreigner, from what I've experienced and seen with other foreigners, not all of which are "gringos" is that Dominicans are very receptive to those that learn the language and customs and know how to behave. In fact I think it can be said if they are professionals they are help in high regard. Certainly, the accent may not be Dominican but this really isn't so important.
I think anyone who has spent any time here would say it is very common for Dominicans to ask foreigners if they like their country. That would be because in spite of everything Dominicans love their country and their culture. Don't be surprised if you answer Dominicans that yes you do like their country in their own language they will say you are "ya dominicano".
In other words, within one's social circle of friends and acquaintances one can be accepted as equally as any other Dominican. Does this mean that everyone you meet would see you as Dominican? Maybe not - unless you get to know them.
Finally, when one learns how to dress, etc one may not stand out as frequently as one might think. For example I have a motorcycle and I have been flagged down numerous times here because people think I'm a taxi. I generally ride around with a jacket and a cap with sunglasses.
my two cents
I would like to say that it is fairly obvious if one is very light skinned with light colored hair one would be assumed to be foreigner, especially in the tourist areas. However, this happens to light skinned Dominicans as well.
With regard to actually fitting into the society as a foreigner, from what I've experienced and seen with other foreigners, not all of which are "gringos" is that Dominicans are very receptive to those that learn the language and customs and know how to behave. In fact I think it can be said if they are professionals they are help in high regard. Certainly, the accent may not be Dominican but this really isn't so important.
I think anyone who has spent any time here would say it is very common for Dominicans to ask foreigners if they like their country. That would be because in spite of everything Dominicans love their country and their culture. Don't be surprised if you answer Dominicans that yes you do like their country in their own language they will say you are "ya dominicano".
In other words, within one's social circle of friends and acquaintances one can be accepted as equally as any other Dominican. Does this mean that everyone you meet would see you as Dominican? Maybe not - unless you get to know them.
Finally, when one learns how to dress, etc one may not stand out as frequently as one might think. For example I have a motorcycle and I have been flagged down numerous times here because people think I'm a taxi. I generally ride around with a jacket and a cap with sunglasses.
my two cents