Quiet living -- Hillbilly & others?

I have been mulling over my biggest priorities, and #1 is quiet, because more than anything I need this for my work. Don't laugh-- I already know the culture is boisterous and loves noise.

I have been poring over the archives, and am not coming up with much on quiet country living.

I saw a message from Hillbilly, in response to jigglebelly:

"Anyway, if you can take the North Shore out of the equation, and live in a small town like Moca, Mao, Villa Tapia, La Vega or a larger, very Dominican city like Santiago or San Francisco de Macoris, you can literally disappear. And still have the beach just an hour away.....cheaper, more conveniences, better water, and more entertainment."

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These smaller towns really intrigue me... I checked a map and discovered, for example, that La Vega is very close to Jarabacoa, which looks so beautiful (and peaceful).

I am wondering how possible it is to rent a decent house somewhere in the country, with neighbors not too close at hand. I will still need internet access.

Also, would it create a bunch of new problems with respect to electricity & security to traipse too far from the beaten path? As far as initial costs, it seems to me that lower rent would balance out in higher setup costs-- unless it's possible to find rental properties that have already paid this cost. Anyone have any idea about this aspect?

I have read many messages about security, and am going to opt for my own approach... bars, dogs, etc. Getting to know my neighbors, most of all, of course.

Buying a large generator is a concern due to the noise, but many messages I've read indicate that an inverter is fine, as it will provide power for several hours at a time. I am thinking I would like the slightly cooler air closer to mountains, as well. Then, trying to keep an air conditioner running wouldn't be as much a necessity... if it is a concern, that is. I'm not a fan (hee!) of living in cold air when it's so contrary to the natural environment; I would rather acclimatize as much as possible.

btw, the above contemplation may very well be step two-- I am fully prepared to live for a time on the beaten path, and take my time searching for the right conditions.

Just wondering if those conditions exist, especially with a low key lifestyle.

Thanks for any thoughts; they're much appreciated.

Dawn

Danny, that's good to hear. Thanks.

It has been very difficult to judge the meaning of 'quiet', because it's a relative thing.

I can barely wait to arrive and get a feel for it all.

I am wondering if the small towns might be too isolated ... ie transportation, internet, most of all.

wow!

XR, that sound almost unbelievable!

But it gives me hope there are gems hidden away.

Certainly I am interested-- how about I arrange to talk to you when I'm there next month-- you needn't rent to me for the same price: would be best if you made a return on the empty house.

I would be very interested in splitting costs on a wireless system, as well. It makes sense to do such things when people must compensate or find ways around a weak infrastructure.

Also, what you say is what I've been mulling over-- set up costs as needed anywhere would be one-time, and worth it when balanced against much lower rents.

Gosh, you made my day with that post.

As a side note, I read somewhere that you and Alba have horses: I'm pretty good with those creatures, so if you ever needed a hand... D