Lots of expats and tourists here think they are not gringos because they are not Americans. Not so, in the eyes of most Dominicans. You look white, you are a gringo to Dominicans. They use the term for all, not just Americans. I think that the name was originally applied to US troops in Mexico who wore green uniforms and who's presence was not appreciated by the Mexican people who yelled - "green gos home", ie, back to the US. I dont think the term is especially pejorative althought most Dominicans will smile when you ask them if you are a gringo. From my experience it may be a very very mild insult but most Dominicans recognize the importance to the Dom economy of the gringo greenbacks even if they are euros, pounds or even francs.
In general I have felt welcomed in the DR. Maybe a couple of times it might have been a tiny bit insincere like "hello my fren" or even "hello beautiful guy". All in all I think they like us gringos
In general I have felt welcomed in the DR. Maybe a couple of times it might have been a tiny bit insincere like "hello my fren" or even "hello beautiful guy". All in all I think they like us gringos