Hello, I am writing as a frustrated American who fell in love with the Dominican Republic from the first moment I stepped into the country. I am currently only 18 years old, and do indeed understand that making a move to another country is a drastic change. I am frustrated with the American way of life. The racism, the economical segregation, some of the crazy laws here. I want to live in a place where most of the people in the area are simply happy to see you. I know that in the DR as with all countries, not everyone will welcome me with open arms and I am willing to accept that. I am ready to encounter some of the setbacks in the Dominican. I can deal with the constant outages of power, I can deal with a much more economically unstable community, atleast everyone more or less is in the same boat. I grew up not ever having alot, so all the "american luxuries" that most people assume all americans have, I will not miss. I enjoy beautiful beaches, and great cigars. Simple things that cost nothing but mean so much. I am visiting Juan Dolio again in a few weeks, to get a better feel for the country and if it is really what I want. I am looking for information on what I need to make this move a success if I do indeed decide on it. I am currently in school now for Business/Accounting, however I would absoultely love to be a casino crouppier or dealer, I would also be interested in being a bar tender. How realistic are these jobs for an American with a Low-Average amount of Spanish background. Also, will I encounter any problems because I am an American??? I also need to know about how much money I should plan on moving to the DR with. In a year I can have approximately $8000 USD, is that enough to get me started??? Please help me out as I would love to know more. Thanks. Please feel free to email me as well. Txrayngers@yahoo.com