Hello All...I am new to this forum, and very thankful to have stumbled upon it in my researching for all things Dominican Republic.
I suffer from a chronic neurologic disorder, and at some point will need to retire on disability. My prayer is that I will be able to work at least 5 more years, at which time both of my sons will be in college. My condition is not terminal, and I have lengthy periods of stability. As I am only 34 years of age, my current annual pay at time of disability will be around $45,000...which is chump change is the US. I have a heart for missionary work focusing on children/youth, and recognize that there are countless opportunities in the DR for such service. My ex-husband is Haitian/Dominican, and my sons have taken an extreme interest in their heritage, which is pleasing to me.
All that said, I see the potential for me to be able to live comfortably and happily in the Dominican Republic.
Here come the questions:
1. Security - I've been looking in the area of Jarabacoa (due to missionary opportunities), is this a safe area. I am a single-woman, and will be living on my own. Where would I be safest, and still be able to serve in ministry?
2. Health - Can I bring my Blue Cross/Blue Shield Insurance with me, or will I have to find a different health care insurance? I would always come back to the states for major procedures, but for basic/maintenance care, can I keep my current insurance?
3. Transportation - Because of my condition, I don't drive. Will that be a problem in a city such as Jarabacoa, that appears to be less populated?
4. Finances - Am I being naive in thinking I can make it on $45,000 annually? Since my retirement is coming from US, am I still paying taxes on it? If so, I estimate take home pay of about $1500 - 2000 monthly...can I make it in the DR with that?
5. Housing - I've been getting really excited when I search these real estate sites...living on north america's east coast a 2 bedroom condo with no luxury runs about $470,000 and up in my neighborhood. I currently rent for $1500 monthly (including utilities). Should I look to rent first when I come there? What can I expect to pay? I haven't found a lot of rental properties in Jarabacoa, but I found so many beautiful homes, some new for $150,000 and less...That's Amazing!!! Is it too good to be true?
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Thank you all so much for providing this amazing resource!! I will be plowing through dilligently...And I appreciate any help you can offer with regards to my questions.
Wishing you well,
roches
I suffer from a chronic neurologic disorder, and at some point will need to retire on disability. My prayer is that I will be able to work at least 5 more years, at which time both of my sons will be in college. My condition is not terminal, and I have lengthy periods of stability. As I am only 34 years of age, my current annual pay at time of disability will be around $45,000...which is chump change is the US. I have a heart for missionary work focusing on children/youth, and recognize that there are countless opportunities in the DR for such service. My ex-husband is Haitian/Dominican, and my sons have taken an extreme interest in their heritage, which is pleasing to me.
All that said, I see the potential for me to be able to live comfortably and happily in the Dominican Republic.
Here come the questions:
1. Security - I've been looking in the area of Jarabacoa (due to missionary opportunities), is this a safe area. I am a single-woman, and will be living on my own. Where would I be safest, and still be able to serve in ministry?
2. Health - Can I bring my Blue Cross/Blue Shield Insurance with me, or will I have to find a different health care insurance? I would always come back to the states for major procedures, but for basic/maintenance care, can I keep my current insurance?
3. Transportation - Because of my condition, I don't drive. Will that be a problem in a city such as Jarabacoa, that appears to be less populated?
4. Finances - Am I being naive in thinking I can make it on $45,000 annually? Since my retirement is coming from US, am I still paying taxes on it? If so, I estimate take home pay of about $1500 - 2000 monthly...can I make it in the DR with that?
5. Housing - I've been getting really excited when I search these real estate sites...living on north america's east coast a 2 bedroom condo with no luxury runs about $470,000 and up in my neighborhood. I currently rent for $1500 monthly (including utilities). Should I look to rent first when I come there? What can I expect to pay? I haven't found a lot of rental properties in Jarabacoa, but I found so many beautiful homes, some new for $150,000 and less...That's Amazing!!! Is it too good to be true?
~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thank you all so much for providing this amazing resource!! I will be plowing through dilligently...And I appreciate any help you can offer with regards to my questions.
Wishing you well,
roches