I'll be coming to DR in a few months to sniff around and consider an extended stay. I have read a few warnings about personal safety and crime. I have also been warned about driving a car. I was told that it could get me in a lot of local trouble if involved in an accident. Please understand that I have spent many years living in the third world, and am not faint of heart, but I would be very interested in the comments of some of the locals on this forum. Thanks very much!!