[Chichiguita]

It sets the relationship off on the wrong tone, I think. I see nothing wrong with a woman paying for a date sometimes--but to be giving a "love interest" cash puts you in a position of power that I don't think is healthy in a love relationship. I would feel the same about a woman asking for money from a man she is dating.

I hear what you are saying, 2leftfeet, I guess all these sanky threads have me looking at people with more suspicion. Sad.

I have not had "love interests" in the DR, but I have had a person or two ask me for help (clothes for kids, school supplies, help to pay for an operation--the operation really happened she had the stitches to show for it).

I have seen so many of my Dominican friends give to others that I accepted that in the DR friends just share in that way. I kind of respect it, actually--even if it is a little uncomfortable. I have had to learn how to say "no" sometimes.

Sanky or no sanky, I still caution anyone whose date or love interest is asking for cash. Whether he is using her or not--I think it sets the relationship on an uneven keel from the start.