First of all, how much is life affected by fear these days? It's been years since I was there. For a professional job, how much would be a fair salary in US$ or RD$? How much does it cost to care for a family with kids in the DR? Do most folks have housekeeping help? Can an American teenager who just got his license in USA, have any independence at all, or will he be unsafe on his own? Private schools, which ones would be best for kids who were in really great American schools? How often do the neighborhoods lose power these days?
How dependable is the internet in most homes? How quickly can you get medical care when you need it? We know the joy, the happy spirits, the kindnesses and laid back style of life there, now, can you help us figure out the details? Thanks to all who help!
1. No more fear here than anywhere else. Just be sensible where you go and how you dress and have reasonable security on your home
2. Depends who you work for. If an American company probably the same as in the Us, for a Dominican company significantly less. I have friends working for US companies in the Free Zones and they earn the same as in US plus free housing and expense allowance
3. If he is sensible would be fine but driving here is crazy
4. Depends on the neighbourhood. I live 45 mins from the capital in Juan Dolio and power rarely goes out. In the areas where it does most people are prepared with inversors or generators
5. There are excellent schools in the capital
6. My internet (Verizon) is pretty reliable and fast
7. Medical care, especially in the capital is fine. Plaza de la Salud is excellent. Do not rely on ambulances though. You need to have your own transport.
8. A lot do have domestic help. I do but not as I really need it but it helps one local family and of course it is nice not to have to clean every day!!!
The main problems I would say are communication if you do not speak spanish, the corruption in all walks of life, getting a good job done - in the house, on your car, being ripped off as a foreigner, the non availability of certain foods and items, the poor quality of items you buy here (can any one tell me where to get a tin (can in american) opener which lasts more than a week?), the frustrating justice system, the total flooding when it rains.
But it is still a fab place all in all! Hope that helps.
Matilda