NEED INFO URGENT!

We're going to visit DR (Sosua) on 1st Dec 1999 to do some IT projects. We'll be staying there for two months (Dec & Jan). - Sorry to say, since we are Asian, is there any discrimination on some particular things? - What are the important things to bring? - How much is the average living cost? average meal cost? - How much is the average wage/salary for an IT professional with several years of experience? (in USD) - Is there Citibank ATM there? Thanks in advance.

We suggest you purchase the Living in Santo Domingo book available on this web site. It is full of information that will help you adapt faster and get more out of your stay. Your slanted eyes may attract attention, you may be singled out as a "chino" despite where you are from (slanted eyes mean Chinese for most Dominicans), but aside from that no problem. On the contrary, Asian residents are usually well educated and productive and have garnered much respect in the Dominican community. You can buy almost anything in the DR. Since you will be living in Sosua, you might travel to Santiago (Supermercado Nacional for shopping every two weeks) or to Santo Domingo for electrical appliances, for example. Regarding the cost of living, the Living in Santo Domingo book has a breakdown. It is not cheap to live in the DR. The amount of money you are paid may depend on if you are contracted from abroad (more $), or hired locally. Of course it will depend on your skills, and the need for them. ATM machines are available in Sosua and other north coast towns and cities.

From what I have seen, Asian people are well respected in the DR. I have been in some stores and restaurants that are run by Asians, and my family thinks well of Asians. Much depends on you individually. If you smile and treat Dominicans with respect, they will be most hospitable to you. If they think you are out to exploit them, they will treat you the same way you treat them.