Good luck. Middle and upper class Doms have no interest in sharing their space with gringo tourists. The rest of them live in hovels that your local planning dept. would condemn in an instant to erect a plastic play structure. Semi solid walls, with a few corrugated iron sheets that constitute a roof. Locals already have an extended family on site and any extra room is taken up by livestock they wish to protect at night.
The cultural experience you are seeking is not readily available here. Anyone offering such will be a part of the "tourist industry" and will expect to be paid for their time and effort. If you don't live here you and your family will probably get sick from the water used to wash the glasses or the plates.
As you have or will read on DR1, there is a distinct difference in general attitude here. Many do not share our values because they can only dream of being in a situation to do so. Many times, short term gains trump any thought of repercussions or the interests and the welfare of others. It is unwise to assume that someone you do not know will be inclined to be hospitable and of honorable intent. Getting into a situation where you give up all control is a recipe for disaster.
There are lots of good people here, you just can't find them on the internet because they don't have a website. You must always remember that the DR is an "upper" third world country. It's citizens are not like the people in the state/province next door. I don't think you would seek out a random family to share Easter with in Camden New Jersey, you should not have the inclination to attempt the same here.
Okay, what a moron post mine was. I am really grateful to this forum already. Tough love. Calling people out
just to keep them safe. I am very appreciative of the insight. Looking at the posts, pretty dumb to think we
could blend in or be a part. BUT, I meant no disrespect to anyone local. Just wanted to get a feel for another's
traditions. It does sound like a crazy time to be there and we are not at a resort. SOOOOOOO---I will take all
of your advice..(most) and stay low.
MikeFisher you are right===Americans wouldn't take an unknown in to celebrate anything. Why do you all
love to live there so much? It sounds bad if you are a gringo. I am still looking forward to our visit and trip. No news at 11 for us. Thanks everyone for your comments and real advice. Cant get this anywhere else.