First of all, learn where you are going to live
Cacicazgos--the Chieftans...nice place.
Spanish is important
Do not be too trusting at first. Dominicans are very, very curious, and will ask questions that would be major social mistakes in northern climes. So don't answer.
If you have service people, do not be overly trusting, until you really know a lot about them.( their 'real' names, where they live-you might not like it but you should know and file for future use exactly where they live) Dominican Grand Dames usually carry a ring of keys that would befit a night watchman around with them, since everything is locked down tight.
Get out of town!. Explore the island, and meet the people. Each area is different.
What to bring with you? Those "special" things you need: for the kitchen; for your desk; for the kids.
sun block at 30+; bug repellant-you are fresh meat; stomach medicine-Pepto, Imodium. tylonol and Aspirin. Bring the biggest you can find at Sam's Club...Some antibacterial salve for cuts and scrapes. Lots of Band-Aids Good sunglasses.
Bluejeans for the Kids and yourselves. Lots of T-shirts, socks
And when you get here you will realize that you could have packed the whole house and still needed something!
Good Luck, and keep
us posted on your life!
HB