Update
Having returned from the DR, I thought it might interest some of you what I thought of the accommodation I ended up choosing. (
http://www.dr1.com/realestate/property/P_444.html )
You will note from the ad that the apartment is described as a studio. However, it is in reality a one bedroom flat and--for those like me used to European-sized abodes--a HUGE flat, too. I lived there alone but it is more than sufficient in size and amenities for two persons. It is located in a three-storey house along with, IIRC, five other apartments. Several of these are available for rent and are bigger than the one I stayed in.
By way of features, you get basic furnishings: beds, wardrobes, dressers, tables, etc, refrigerator, cable TV and similar. Everything is fully furnished and I found I missed nothing. There is a communal washing machine, which I found available for use any time I needed it. It does not use hot water, however. You also get bedlinen and towels provided. These are replaced on a weekly basis at which point all the apartments are cleaned, too.
The house is owned by a middle-aged couple who spend part of the year in the DR. They are extremely friendly and have provided me with all the pointers and assistance I needed. The on-site caretaker is a lovely Dominicana who will also be more than happy to help with anything needed. She doesn't speak English though.
The house is situated in the Miramar section of SD, i.e. right on the coast. All apartments have an unrestricted view of the sea. I regularly walked to the center of the city, which is about a 90-minute undertaking at a leisurely pace. The alternatives are buses and carros publicos (? 0.10/0.20 per ride) or taxis (? 3/- per ride).
Oh, and be advised: the situation with electricity in SD
is as bad as people on here have been writing. It's normally on through the night and is then intermittently off roughly during the periods: 0700-1100 and 1400-1900. When the electricity is not on, you will still be able to use selected appliances thanks to the inverter the house has. BUT the fridge will be off and you will not be able to utilize the hot water heater (so not showers unless you want a cold one). The TV and most lights though will be operational.
That's the lowdown. I was extremely happy with my choice; it was pretty much like a hotel, only with a much more personalized service and cheaper (US$ 400/- per month, all inclusive). The only thing that annoyed me was a rooster that lives in a neighboring house and which starts its "serenade" at 0600 hours and every thirty minutes after that. But I understand something is being done about it that involves a slingshot and pebbles. :nervous:
Anyone interested in more information is welcome to contact me here or privately.
Michael
mls_lists (at) msn.com