Ok, Bugg-Z.
#1 You're a guy which makes it easier to go out without Mom & Dad flipping out.
#2 You speak Spanish.
Sounds to me like you're in for a pretty good time as long as you end up in or near Santo Domingo or Santiago. Puerto Plata wouldn't be too bad as it's a decent size city plus you have easy access to Sosua & Cabarete for recreation. If you're in the campos, life and keeping occupied could be more of a challenge :tired:
I suspect making friends will come easily both in your neighborhood and at school. If you like pretty Latin girls, you'll be in heaven. People are very social and like to go out and do things. It'll still be a struggle. My first few months in DR I was pretty homesick. But, after I learned my way around and how to enjoy myself in a new environment, I wouldn't trade it for the world.
Malls exist in the larger cities.
Most cable channels carry major U.S. networks.
Satellite tv gives you access to it all.
Middle/upper class kids will know all the tv shows you like.
They'll like the same music you do, but they'll probably introduce you to some new sounds, too. It's not all bachata, merengue, and salsa. You'll find a lot of reggaeton in the clubs, techno, and even raves on the weekends.
Major movies will hit the theaters, perhaps a little later than in U.S.
You can buy just about anything in DR that you can in the U.S., but it's usually more expensive.
Depending on where you live, there's high speed internet.
Cellular phone coverage is good. Text messaging is just as popular as in U.S.
You've got beaches, mountains, rivers and the cities to explore.
You'll likely end up inviting your friends from Massachusett's down... and they'll leave envious you're living on a Caribbean island.
When you're old enough to get out on your own, you might decide to head back to the U.S. for education or job opportunities, but I doubt you'll ever regret your time in DR. Look at it as an adventure, not punishment and you'll have a great time.
Remember, when you were there before you were only 6 years old...
and there are almost 3 million people that pay big money just to spend a week a year on the island.
Check out Bonche.com ? to see some of the night life for young people. It includes photos & info on bars, restaurants, and concerts.