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Grand Pollo
07-16-06, 01:18
All these posts that say "not expensive" - how much is that? $20 or $300?
Try Palacio. Or El Conde.
(From DR1 8/1/2006)
Dominicans in New York City among poor
A recent study carried out by sociologist Ramona Hernandez, the director of the Institute for Dominican Studies at New York University, shows that Dominican residents of the Big Apple are among the groups that show the highest poverty rate. The professor says that a lack of English, poor academic preparation and the selfsame discriminatory social structure in the United States are partly to blame for this situation. According to the investigator, her research found that Dominicans in Miami earned higher salaries than those living in NYC, and she attributed this to the fact that Miami is a bilingual city and New York is not.
**********
........o.k. I'll agree that the primary reason for poverty is a decided lack of education/"gainful employment" preparation but NYC is not a bilingual city?;)
I could put together a road trip from the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn,thru Elmhurst and then Corona Queens, over the bridge into Manhattan. Off to the west 100's then north into Spanish Harlem and then into Washington Heights then into Inwood, another bridge and into the Bronx. Over to the Soundview section of the Bronx, westbound the entire length of Tremont Ave, up the Grand Concourse across Fordham Road up the Major Deegan Expressway and ending up in the Cross County Shopping Center in Yonkers ............and I can do it ALL w/o speaking a single word of English!!
I'll have some arroz con gandules, a plate of lechon asado a small bowl of pollo guisado, pastellitos de carne and top it off with flan and a taza de cafe con leche! :D
I'll show you a bilingual city Dr. Hernandez! (lol)
cheers........
(and pass me a Presidente and a Medalla Light)
This year for my vacation, I am planning to go to Peru. A friend of mine has asked me to go to the DR with him, so I thought I would do a little research on the whole topic.
I have gone to Costa Rica the past six years for my vacation and have always had a very good time. However, on my last trip, I saw lots and lots of Gringo tourists all over CR. Many more than previous trips, and I was there in the Green Season. So, I am in need of change.
Back to my dilema. With fuel prices out of this world, flights from NYC to Lima are between 700 and 800 USD. A non-stop flight from JFK to Santo Domingo is about 350 USD. That is a huge savings in airfare, but to be honest, that is about the only thing that saves you money.
Am I missing something? I read all over this forum, and I can not find any kind of real deal. It seems that the chicas prices are high all over that island and the GFE is almost non-existant. These prices make Costa Rica look like the deal of the century, not to mention the VERY low costs I have read about Peru.
Also, the hotel prices are real high too. $80/night to have power outages? I don't think so.
I would like to hear all the comments you guys have. I am by no means an expert on mongering, but for "Bang for the Buck", I feel DR is very lacking.
Member #2128
08-02-06, 01:06
Tuna,
What board are you reading?
In SD there are large, luxurious American-style hotels for $80USD and more, for sure. But this is the DR, a third world country, there are many other reasonable options for almost 1/2 the price. Look a little deeper into the board.
In BOCA CHICA, EL CANDIL and COSTALUNGA are very nice places, with AC, etc. for like $47USD. Italian run.
In SOSUA, EL EUROPA and CLUB RESIDENCIAL are around $50 and also, are clean, have AC, well-run places. German run I believe.
All sorts of chicas are about $33USD/for hour+ ST in Sosua and less than that in BC, although the selection seems limited there. It's a smaller place.
If those numbers break your bank, you may be better off in Peru...or check out the Ecuador board lately. Many chicas there in Quito, some hot, but mostly in dirty W-Houses houses with rooms in the back (read the reports) for $7USD for 1/2 hour or less.
Since it's really all about the chicas at the end of the day, it may be relevant to consider your "taste" in women---and go to where "they" might be, rather than just counting the dollars. IMHO.
Still coming off my DR high,
#2128
Jazzy Daddy
08-02-06, 20:22
Guys,
Do any of you know of any Car rental agency in Santo Domingo and the average daily price for a mid-size sedan. I will appreciate it very much if someone elaborate on driving in DR since I'm planing my trip and want to be very mobile, hence being fluid and driving to towns along my adventure :)
Thanks again!
If your flying into SDQ you should make advance reservations w/ hertz,avis,etc.(no Hertz in Santiago) as there are better deals that way. Driving is fine but make sure you check the car for damage before leaving. Also if you do get the car damaged and didn't get the insurance(I never do) you should get the car fixed prior to returning it. I just returned from Santigo/Mao and had some dents repaired and repainted for RD1100, I would've been charged $300 US had I just brought it back.Driving is great in the DR as compared to Asia. Have fun...
Felipe2006
08-23-06, 14:30
Hi guys,
I´m thinking if going to Latin America later this year - I still have vacation time left over from last year… I´m looking at late October / early November. Anyway, it´ll be my first time there and the trip will be about 2 weeks.
Now my question. Where should I go - Cuba, DR, Colombia or Venezuela? I have read most of the forum reports on these four countries (well, “only” the ones from 2005 & 2006 actually), and I think I have a good idea what to expect in the different places. Btw, I would I´d like to thank all you guys who post such great reports!
Before someone tells me “Brasil”: I´ll probably go there in 2007 – a Brazilian friend of mine is getting married next year and has invited me to come visit. So I am not going now.
I should mention that I speak Spanish fluently – I´ve been to Spain quite often in the past two years, mostly on business, but some fun also. See my posts in the Spain section (February 2006). I´m 35 y.o.
After reviewing the info, these are my impressions – please correct me if I´m wrong in your opinion, feel free to give your advice or point of view!
(1) Cuba: the scene seems to be much slower than a few years ago. Stories of hassles, crackdowns etc. Also I don't like police-states, communist or other, so I guess I´ll pass on Cuba – even though cubanas (the ones I know in Spain) are very fine.
(2) Venezuela: many people seem to complain it´s gotten too expensive & that p4p-action is too “professional” (in the negative sense), no gfe etc. Is that accurate?
(3) DR: some areas over-touristed, but others less so. Many positive reports. Crime less a problem than in Venezuela or Colombia.
(4) Colombia: many good reports. Cartagena vs. Medellin or Cali? Safety could be an issue (?), but I´m not a scared person normally. I guess as long as you do as the locals do & keep your wits about it should be ok.
Right now, I´m leaning to either DR or Colombia. I´d love to do both, but in 12-14 days it´s probably not practical. Anyway, thanks for all the info, hope this post was not too long or too boring.
Felipe2006
Hi guys,
I´m thinking if going to Latin America later this year - I still have vacation time left over from last year… I´m looking at late October / early November. Anyway, it´ll be my first time there and the trip will be about 2 weeks.
Now my question. Where should I go - Cuba, DR, Colombia or Venezuela? I have read most of the forum reports on these four countries (well, “only” the ones from 2005 & 2006 actually), and I think I have a good idea what to expect in the different places. Btw, I would I´d like to thank all you guys who post such great reports!
Before someone tells me “Brasil”: I´ll probably go there in 2007 – a Brazilian friend of mine is getting married next year and has invited me to come visit. So I am not going now.
I should mention that I speak Spanish fluently – I´ve been to Spain quite often in the past two years, mostly on business, but some fun also. See my posts in the Spain section (February 2006). I´m 35 y.o.
After reviewing the info, these are my impressions – please correct me if I´m wrong in your opinion, feel free to give your advice or point of view!
(1) Cuba: the scene seems to be much slower than a few years ago. Stories of hassles, crackdowns etc. Also I don't like police-states, communist or other, so I guess I´ll pass on Cuba – even though cubanas (the ones I know in Spain) are very fine.
(2) Venezuela: many people seem to complain it´s gotten too expensive & that p4p-action is too “professional” (in the negative sense), no gfe etc. Is that accurate?
(3) DR: some areas over-touristed, but others less so. Many positive reports. Crime less a problem than in Venezuela or Colombia.
(4) Colombia: many good reports. Cartagena vs. Medellin or Cali? Safety could be an issue (?), but I´m not a scared person normally. I guess as long as you do as the locals do & keep your wits about it should be ok.
Right now, I´m leaning to either DR or Colombia. I´d love to do both, but in 12-14 days it´s probably not practical. Anyway, thanks for all the info, hope this post was not too long or too boring.
Felipe2006I've been to 3/4 countries (Cuba, DR, Colombia) and I prefer Cuba. If you're undecided you can always travel to DR for a week, then fly to Havana (from Santo Domingo) for another week.
-Helpmann :)
Hi guys,
I´m thinking if going to Latin America later this year - I still have vacation time left over from last year… I´m looking at late October / early November. Anyway, it´ll be my first time there and the trip will be about 2 weeks.
Now my question. Where should I go - Cuba, DR, Colombia or Venezuela? I have read most of the forum reports on these four countries (well, “only” the ones from 2005 & 2006 actually), and I think I have a good idea what to expect in the different places. Btw, I would I´d like to thank all you guys who post such great reports!
Before someone tells me “Brasil”: I´ll probably go there in 2007 – a Brazilian friend of mine is getting married next year and has invited me to come visit. So I am not going now.
I should mention that I speak Spanish fluently – I´ve been to Spain quite often in the past two years, mostly on business, but some fun also. See my posts in the Spain section (February 2006). I´m 35 y.o.
After reviewing the info, these are my impressions – please correct me if I´m wrong in your opinion, feel free to give your advice or point of view!
(1) Cuba: the scene seems to be much slower than a few years ago. Stories of hassles, crackdowns etc. Also I don't like police-states, communist or other, so I guess I´ll pass on Cuba – even though cubanas (the ones I know in Spain) are very fine.
(2) Venezuela: many people seem to complain it´s gotten too expensive & that p4p-action is too “professional” (in the negative sense), no gfe etc. Is that accurate?
(3) DR: some areas over-touristed, but others less so. Many positive reports. Crime less a problem than in Venezuela or Colombia.
(4) Colombia: many good reports. Cartagena vs. Medellin or Cali? Safety could be an issue (?), but I´m not a scared person normally. I guess as long as you do as the locals do & keep your wits about it should be ok.
Right now, I´m leaning to either DR or Colombia. I´d love to do both, but in 12-14 days it´s probably not practical. Anyway, thanks for all the info, hope this post was not too long or too boring.
Felipe2006
Felipe since you speak Spanish fluently, I would recommend the following.
1. Go to Medellin Colombia.
2. Then in 2007 when you can free up some more time, return to Medellin Colombia.
3. Enjoy the wedding of your friends in Brazil but on the way back stopover again in Medellin Colombia.
(sense a pattern here?)
This is my honest, visceral reaction to you question and I have been to the DR 11 X and Venezuela 2X. Medellin is hard to match for price, quality, quantity, climate, food, atmosphere etc.
cheers...............:)
CAN YOU BELIEVE IT! Ford and I are finally in agreement on something. MDE!
Cork Sucker
09-02-06, 17:25
I bought this report from the web. Decided to share it.Here it is.Download ,read,enjoy.
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=QMYMEDGK
I bought this report from the web. Decided to share it.Here it is.Download ,read,enjoy.
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=QMYMEDGK
It doesn not work. Apparantly it wont until the author reuploads the file.
_________________
MISTER NYC ©2006
Are showing that murder is down 43% during the time the curfew has been in effect, over the same time frame in 2005. Now the only people getting killed are the bar and disco owners!
Owners from playa dorada met with the president to inform him that their taxes reported are going to be much less than before the curfew. So I guess less taxes means fewer police, which means more murder. Only in the DR!!!
"Originally Posted by kevin_s98 [from another board]
I've picked up 2 chicks from Crystals so for for all-nighters. Both gave really shitty service, just couldn't wait to get it over with. Really really disappointing.
Any suggestions on how to pick up someone who gives great service? Thanks. "
The above was from a post on another board and I thought it deserves attention here too so let me share my response here for all to absorb or comment on as well.
I had a negative experience with one Crystals chic and it was on my first night in town about a month and a half ago. She filled the role of being a playful candidate by dancing around and smiling and grabbing my unit. We danced, drank, and laughed in the discos and then it turned to shit back in the room. I'd normally say check to see if she fits the role first as I was trying to do, but even that is not full proof. I'll be asking one of my chica friends at Crystals for recommendations the next time. Point one.
Point two. Set the expectations early in the conversation. Make sure she knows exactly what you want and how you like it and that if everything works out great, then she'll get it all. If not, she'll get less. Or you can say she'll get X amount of pesos and a bonus of X pesos if she really does a good job OR a combination of the two. Make sense? It's worth a shot anyways.
Point three. Let your hands roam and if hers do too, then you might have a winner for the night.
Point four. Don't let her drink too much. Otherwise, she might just shut down on you until morning time when it is time to leave.
Hope this helps.
Btw, if any of you have bad experiences with chicaas, please post the chicas names, pics, and your stories. I along with many others on here would probably like to know about it so that we can stay away from them *****s.
_________________
MISTER NYC ©2006
Puerto La Cruz
09-13-06, 03:27
Hey Ford:
I've been to DR (50+ times), Venezuela about 10 times and Cartagena exactly twice in the last three months. Cheapest of the three to get laid is DR. Anywhere in DR. If you need info regarding the Sosua area, please PM me or don't be afraid to ask on this board.
I'm not a fan of Caracas but the Puerto la Cruz area is a pretty cool place to hang. Hotel for about $50.00 a night, reasonably priced food and drink with chica prices varying widely.
Cartagena, like PLC, is a great location on the Atlantic with the same climate as PLC. I really like CTG but those damn vendors and touts get very very pushy and obnoxious. Something has to be legislated about those guys. The other thing about PLC is that is a short hop to Isla Margarita. And if you really want to get lost in nowhere, Margarita is also a short hop to los Roques.
If you decide on PLC, you'll have to catch a flight from Caracas to Barcelona. You can fly Aeropostel. Its about a 40 minute flight. You'll have to change terminals from international to domestic in Crackass. Go out the door, turn left and walk about 350 yards to enter the domestic terminal. You'll have to take your luggage with you from one terminal to the other.
General infrastructure and medical if necessary are far better in CTG and PLC than anywhere I've been in DR and I've been to all four corners of that country. No black outs. 24/365 electricity.
Still good value for the dollar though in all three countries.
Member #4179
09-17-06, 00:56
I'm set for my first trip to DR (Sosua). I read on the Board that you can sit outside the hotel or walk on the beach in the middle of the day and get propositioned. That sounds a lot different from what I experienced in my four trips to Costa Rica where the streetwalkers are mainly trannies (no thanks). The bars and massage parlors of Costa Rica are scrupulous in checking cedulas.
The question is: How do you make sure that the chica is of legal age?
Do you ask to see her cedula (correct term for DR?) while doing the negotiation?
I'm set for my first trip to DR (Sosua). I read on the Board that you can sit outside the hotel or walk on the beach in the middle of the day and get propositioned. That sounds a lot different from what I experienced in my four trips to Costa Rica where the streetwalkers are mainly trannies (no thanks). The bars and massage parlors of Costa Rica are scrupulous in checking cedulas.
The question is: How do you make sure that the chica is of legal age?
Do you ask to see her cedula (correct term for DR?) while doing the negotiation?You can ask to see her id if you choose. Some hotels (Europa) want you to
leave their id at the desk. Stop by the bars during the day, Domino,4 Roses, Alegria. The chicas will be sitting at the bar waiting for you.
BoricuaOnline
09-17-06, 04:33
Cedula is the main ID in the DR to show that you are over 18 but they can be easily falsified. If a girl has no cedula it is highly probable that she is under 18. She is going to tell you that her cedula was lost and that she is managing to get a new one but that is almost always a lie. There is a webpage where you enter a cedula number and the info of the cedula owner appears, thats the only 100% method to verify.
I'm set for my first trip to DR (Sosua). I read on the Board that you can sit outside the hotel or walk on the beach in the middle of the day and get propositioned. That sounds a lot different from what I experienced in my four trips to Costa Rica where the streetwalkers are mainly trannies (no thanks). The bars and massage parlors of Costa Rica are scrupulous in checking cedulas.
The question is: How do you make sure that the chica is of legal age?
Do you ask to see her cedula (correct term for DR?) while doing the negotiation?
What are your exact dates for your trip to Sosua?
I, along with several others from the boards, may very well be in town.
__________________
MISTER NYC ©2006
Member #4179
09-18-06, 16:08
What are your exact dates for your trip to Sosua?
I, along with several others from the boards, may very well be in town.
__________________
MISTER NYC ©2006
I wish I knew! My boss keeps switching deadline dates on a major project
I'm needed for, and she said she would cover the difference in any
vacation expenses from the baseline I originally set up (Oct. 20-23). The
current plan is Oct. 13-16.
It would be great to meet some of the guys. I usually monger alone, and
I don't drink much. But I really enjoy talking about the hobby over a slow
beer, in the wonderful latency period after spending time with a couple
hot chicas.
LifeSavour
09-26-06, 16:31
I live in Kiev, Ukraine. Have a wonderful, sexy 25 yr old UKR girl! I am from USA and in June my son will get married!
He is thinking about Jamacia! I want to take Olga. Would any of YOU think or suggest DP would be a good alternative to host a wedding?
If I offer to pay most of the exspense - I am certain they will go where I WANT!!
Thanks, LS Guy!
I prefer light skinned girls. I used to monger in Colombia until my lawyer said I should not go back there or possbily get arrested for POSSIBLE paternity and non-support.
Anyway, just wondering where I can get some light skinned pussy in Dominican Republic. I was in Puerto Plata and the girls seemed dark. I hear that the girls in Santiago are lighter skinned?
Does anyone know where to find the light skinned pussy in the DR? Thanks.
IFRpilot99
09-26-06, 19:24
Hey fellow hobbists. I am planning a trip to the DR sometime in October. dates are flexible for me as I'm currently working in NJ where there are direct flights available on Continental for reasonable $.
I was thinking about October 11 - 16. I havn't solidified my itinery yet, and would be happy to hear feedback from anyone on the board in the know. I was thinking about staying at Blackbeards. Any other suggestions? Currently I want to spend a night or so in Sosua and wouldn't mind checking out a few other towns.
I was wondering if anyone from the board might be down there during this time, or sometime in October looking to meet up with other cool people. I'm still trying to get one of my buddies to come with me but he's wavering so I am pretty much about to make the trip alone. Would be cool to hang with someone when I'm not engaged in other activities ;-)
Any input for my 5 nights there would be appreciated!
Ciao
Bango Cheito
09-27-06, 09:22
I prefer light skinned girls. I used to monger in Colombia until my lawyer said I should not go back there or possbily get arrested for POSSIBLE paternity and non-support.
Anyway, just wondering where I can get some light skinned pussy in Dominican Republic. I was in Puerto Plata and the girls seemed dark. I hear that the girls in Santiago are lighter skinned?
Does anyone know where to find the light skinned pussy in the DR? Thanks.
Santiago and in general the Cibao (the valley region that surrounded it) is considered to have the lightest-skinned girls in the DR. You might want to consider Ecuador or Venezuela if you are looking for what you had in Colombia, especially if it was Bogota or Medellin.
IFRpilot99,
I can and want to visit DR around the same time. I am pretty flexible on schedule and other stuff. Would love to hook up down there. I always need a wingman in a foreign land. PM me if interested.
Thanks.
Hey fellow hobbists. I am planning a trip to the DR sometime in October. dates are flexible for me as I'm currently working in NJ where there are direct flights available on Continental for reasonable $.
I was thinking about October 11 - 16. I havn't solidified my itinery yet, and would be happy to hear feedback from anyone on the board in the know. I was thinking about staying at Blackbeards. Any other suggestions? Currently I want to spend a night or so in Sosua and wouldn't mind checking out a few other towns.
I was wondering if anyone from the board might be down there during this time, or sometime in October looking to meet up with other cool people. I'm still trying to get one of my buddies to come with me but he's wavering so I am pretty much about to make the trip alone. Would be cool to hang with someone when I'm not engaged in other activities ;-)
Any input for my 5 nights there would be appreciated!
Ciao
IFRpilot99
10-03-06, 20:41
Hey Addis
That would be cool. I am also somewhat flexible in my dates. The system won't let me PM you - I really need to send Jackson a Jackson so I can do so.
IFRpilot99,
I can and want to visit DR around the same time. I am pretty flexible on schedule and other stuff. Would love to hook up down there. I always need a wingman in a foreign land. PM me if interested.
Thanks.
El Supergring
10-10-06, 09:40
Hi guys,
So here is the deal, I am trying to plan a bachelor party for my buddy who is getting married this month. I posted a question on the LRM thread, but no one responded, so I am trying this one. Anyways, we want to go out on the town for a night before the wedding, we are all staying at one of the all-inclusives outside of town. Any thoughts on where 10 guys can go and get our buddy laid (and maybe ourselves as well?) someplace nice, but not too nice, know what I mean? Also, can you rent party busses down there?
I have a vacation coming up.
Now I have been to Boca Chica and had fun mongering.
I want to try another city but not sure of which one.
All I really care about is lots of WG's, any suggestions?
I have a vacation coming up.
Now I have been to Boca Chica and had fun mongering.
I want to try another city but not sure of which one.
All I really care about is lots of WG's, any suggestions?
Corndog,
No offense mate, you've got alot of posts but I'm not that familiar with you - how's your Spanish ability? Fluent, %75, %50, %20 , or are you at the point where you still have trouble remembering that the word for beer is cerveza? (lol) :D
My point is that it definitely makes a difference. My favorite place in the DR for the "hobby" (by far) is Santo Domingo. Beautiful women, 1st rate accomodations are available, great food, great atmosphere and all no more than a short (often direct) flight from the States.
However, you really need Spanish in the capital. My Spanish ability is near fluent and I would be at a total loss w/o it. :( Outside of the first and 2nd level of hotel management you're not likely going to be able to get two words in English out of anybody down there. Not the taxistas, not the restaurant workers, not the owners or employees of the casas de citas. Negotiating for everything will have to be done in Spanish.
Sosua (although not high on my list for quality) is much more "user friendly". Sosua and the other north coast town of Cabarete are small, easy to navigate through and pretty simple and straight-forward for hobby-ing. :)
You're sure not going to get any more English out of the girls in Sosua or Cabarete then you would in the capital, but there are always a few fellow mongers doing the "walk-around" down there that can give you a hand and always a respectable number of "legitimate" vacationers around who can point you in the right direction.
hope it helps!
In respect to Santo Domingo however there is a popular and often used Dominican saying -
"La Capital es capital, y todo lo otro es monte."
In English - "The capital is the capital, everything else is the boondocks, the sticks [unimportant]"
cheers..................:)
I am weighing my options for rental vs. cabs. I plan on driving from the capital to the east coast. I have read on public forums NOT to rent a car.
Gadey or anyone else. I do not speak any Spanish but I am a sort of dare devil (meaning I am not afraid of my own shadow in foreign contries). Any advice from the board, rent or cab?
Guys,
Do any of you know of any Car rental agency in Santo Domingo and the average daily price for a mid-size sedan. I will appreciate it very much if someone elaborate on driving in DR since I'm planing my trip and want to be very mobile, hence being fluid and driving to towns along my adventure :)
Thanks again!
I am weighing my options for rental vs. cabs. I plan on driving from the capital to the east coast. I have read on public forums NOT to rent a car.
Gadey or anyone else. I do not speak any Spanish but I am a sort of dare devil (meaning I am not afraid of my own shadow in foreign contries). Any advice from the board, rent or cab?If you don't speak spanish, you'll find it impossible getting directions, or explaining to AMET why you are not wearing your seatbelt and a host of other problems you can run into. How far are travelling east, if its further than San Pedro, than you are looking at $50+ Maybe you should take a bus there's one that will haul you all the way to La Romana.
I am sure you know if you want to be independently mobile. Most of the veterans will say don't drive, because of possible accidents , and jail, speaking no spanish, getting lost and there is jail, being pulled over by the police and not knowning why and then there is jail, no traffic rules and laws and jail, disappearing highways that lead to jail.
I was in much the same boat as you and I did the entire island and no jail. I will do it again in January. It probable helped that I am Black and had the smallest cheapest car avail at Alamo. If I were white and driving a nice new mid size car or SUV, I would be in JAIL!
I passed many motorcycle cops but none bothered me. Its not that bad as long as you do not stand out like a sore thumb. Blend in and drive like a Dominican and you will be alright.
Griot
I am weighing my options for rental vs. cabs. I plan on driving from the capital to the east coast. I have read on public forums NOT to rent a car.
Gadey or anyone else. I do not speak any Spanish but I am a sort of dare devil (meaning I am not afraid of my own shadow in foreign contries). Any advice from the board, rent or cab?
I am weighing my options for rental vs. cabs. I plan on driving from the capital to the east coast. I have read on public forums NOT to rent a car.
Gadey or anyone else. I do not speak any Spanish but I am a sort of dare devil (meaning I am not afraid of my own shadow in foreign contries). Any advice from the board, rent or cab?
You're a daredevil but do you know anything about what's going on in the city now?
I have rented cars in all parts of the DR in the past. My recommendation is to rent on the north coast (not a big deal except for the Motoconchos) and to avoid renting in the capital SDQ and stick with cabs.
Right now you've got the Metro construction project causing havoc all over Maximo Gomez and 27 de febrero. Are you going to know how to negotiate that mess? Stick to cabs.
(Also don't anybody ever try to drive in Honduras. What a friggin' mistake that was. Either in Tegucigalpa or San Pedro Sula! There's where a guy needs to be a daredevil. Not important on this forum, but I just had to get that in!) (lol) :D
cheers all.............
If Ford is in the country. He normally is fingering one girl while getting blown by another all while drinking a presidente and dodging the massive potholes.
i too was almost scared of of renting from reading some posts. i ended up taking a chance and renting a car and was glad i did. i rented a compact (chevy c2) from santiago airport and drove to santo domingo. i drove a good amount while in both santiago and santo domingo with no problems. i always took cabs at night becasue i was drinking. i was never stopped by police and i did pass a few while speeding on the autopista.
word of advice- stay away from avenue duarte in sd. i made the mistake of taking this road during the day and it was absolutly insane gridlock with no traffic lights. you had bumper to bumper cars going in both directions with right of way being determined by which car edges their bumper closer to the other cars. really funny looking back at it now. other than that street i had no issues.
rental car was about $25 a day without taxes.
i say go for it and rent the car. you end up seeing so much more.
mc
Amigo of King
11-22-06, 10:46
I have benn renting cars in sdq for 22 years and see no big deal about it. Then again I am from Boston and have been dodging the big dig for years.
Amigo of King Kong
Amigo of King
11-22-06, 11:06
By the way here is some photos from last month.
Thanks for all the tips. I made ONE mistake in that I said I would be going East when I am acutally going from Santo Domingo (after staying in the city for 3 days) to Puetro Plata. I would like to drive across the county rather than spend 150 dollars on a private car to get there. Unless someone has some better suggestions on how to get to Puerto Plata? I had done some research but can't seem to find anywhere that can point me to a decent bus service that does this trip.
Renting a car in Puerto Plata sounds like the best plan, IF i can find a car rental place.
You guys ROCK and as this is my first trip I am looking for ALL the tips I can get. Including how I can ditch the wife to get to crytsals for some night action:)
I have been to Thailand and LOVE to go to Montreal. If you guys have never given Montreal a thought....DO IT. Beautiful girls (I am picky) for 160 and hour. If you are polite and clean (I am 50) you will gave a great time for an hour or two a day. Strip clubs are FANTASIC and some are full service...CBJ for 80 bucks. www.montrealxxxtase.com
http://www.montrealsmostwanted.com/ Two sites to get you started and addicted. GREAT place in the summer and HOT french speaking woman.
Thanks for the help.
Word of advice- stay away from avenue Duarte in SD. I made the mistake of taking this road during the day and it was absolutly insane gridlock with no traffic lights. You had bumper to bumper cars going in both directions with right of way being determined by which car edges their bumper closer to the other cars. Really funny looking back at it now. Other than that street I had no issues.Avenida Duarte in Santo Domingo is possibly the craziest street to drive down in the capital. Nevertheless, once you've driven down it, you can handle just about any street in the country.
-Helpmann :D
Thanks for all the tips. I made ONE mistake in that I said I would be going East when I am acutally going from Santo Domingo (after staying in the city for 3 days) to Puetro Plata. I would like to drive across the county rather than spend 150 dollars on a private car to get there. Unless someone has some better suggestions on how to get to Puerto Plata? I had done some research but can't seem to find anywhere that can point me to a decent bus service that does this trip.Caribe Tours. Extremely reliable.
www.caribetours.com.do
-Helpmann :)
Thanks for all the tips. I made ONE mistake in that I said I would be going East when I am acutally going from Santo Domingo (after staying in the city for 3 days) to Puetro Plata. I would like to drive across the county rather than spend 150 dollars on a private car to get there. Unless someone has some better suggestions on how to get to Puerto Plata? I had done some research but can't seem to find anywhere that can point me to a decent bus service that does this trip.
Renting a car in Puerto Plata sounds like the best plan, IF i can find a car rental place.
You guys ROCK and as this is my first trip I am looking for ALL the tips I can get. Including how I can ditch the wife to get to crytsals for some night action:)
I have been to Thailand and LOVE to go to Montreal. If you guys have never given Montreal a thought....DO IT. Beautiful girls (I am picky) for 160 and hour. If you are polite and clean (I am 50) you will gave a great time for an hour or two a day. Strip clubs are FANTASIC and some are full service...CBJ for 80 bucks. www.montrealxxxtase.com
http://www.montrealsmostwanted.com/ Two sites to get you started and addicted. GREAT place in the summer and HOT french speaking woman.
Thanks for the help.
My recommendation is to use a national company and get the insurance (not just for the rental car, but liability for others). NO one obeys any traffic rules that we would recognize. The motoconchos will pass on every side and cut in front of cars, as suicidal as that sounds.
Make all turns, lane changes, etc slowly and gradually, to the idiots can react and move over.
I made a left turn (from the left lane, with turn signal on) and had an idiot on a motoconcho slam into me, ripping off the rear view mirror and denting the driver side door. (The moron was passing on the extreme left, against the oncoming traffic). Only my Dominican girlfriend saved me from disaster.
Any accident will be YOUR fault, because YOU are the only one with money. Everyone will have their hand out, including the police.
Use only national rental agencies. In the PP/Sosua area, the airport has several and there are offices in PP.
Have insurance.
Drive VERY defensively.
Having had my "lesson" in DR driving, I still drive rentals.
Good luck!
Rules to follow about renting a car in DR.
1. Book it online through orbitz , expedia etc
2. Take third party coverage if your credit card covers comprehensive coverage. Sometimes I take full coverage in spite of credit card coverage.
3. Inspect the car closely although you are tired from the flight. Go through check list with the car guy carefully. All cars in DR have body damage.
4. Pay special attention to hubcaps, kick it and make sure it is not loose. They charge an arm and leg for lost hubcaps.
5. Check the spare tire and make sure it is good.
6. Check the mirrors and make sure they are good.
7. Now you are ready to go. Do not slam your brakes everytime you see somebody is crossing the street. The car behind is liable to hit you. Persons tend to get out of your way just in time. They have had plenty of experience dodging cars.
8. When you park make sure it is well lighted or there is an attendant.
9. Do not stop even if somebody motions you to stop in the middle of night.
10. Do not pick up hitchhikers even if it is a girl. It could be a scam.
Happy motoring.
Rules to follow about renting a car in DR.
1. Book it online through orbitz , expedia etc
2. Take third party coverage if your credit card covers comprehensive coverage. Sometimes I take full coverage in spite of credit card coverage.
3. Inspect the car closely although you are tired from the flight. Go through check list with the car guy carefully. All cars in DR have body damage.
4. Pay special attention to hubcaps, kick it and make sure it is not loose. They charge an arm and leg for lost hubcaps.
5. Check the spare tire and make sure it is good.
6. Check the mirrors and make sure they are good.
7. Now you are ready to go. Do not slam your brakes everytime you see somebody is crossing the street. The car behind is liable to hit you. Persons tend to get out of your way just in time. They have had plenty of experience dodging cars.
8. When you park make sure it is well lighted or there is an attendant.
9. Do not stop even if somebody motions you to stop in the middle of night.
10. Do not pick up hitchhikers even if it is a girl. It could be a scam.
Happy motoring.I disagree with #1. I don't believe anyone should pay in advance for any service offered in the Dominican Republic (from rental cars to women.) It's no guarantee of service.
Other than that, rent from the major car companies (Alamo, Avis, Hertz) keep a photocopy of your drivers license and passport in the glove compartment, drive defensively, and if possible, stay off the roads after 12am (police check points.)
-Helpmann :)
Amigo of King
11-24-06, 02:32
May be I am just lucky but i have never had a real bad experience in all my years renting cars in the DR. I used europcar last time and was treated very well. They actually under charged by $50 dolars and had to call me in the states to get permission to charge the $50 dollars I did in fact owe them. The manager was so surprised and thankful that I did give permision he promised me a free upgrade upon my next visit.
Amigo of King Kong
To Amigo del gran gorila :) - I've never had any real bad experiences in car rentals either but I've always thought that I'm probably overdue. :(
I think the advice offered by yanqui69, Helpmann and Sammon is pretty solid. The drivers in the DR aren't the worst drivers I've ever seen (Honduras and Venezuela might edge them out) but they're very close to the top of the list!
I've driven in SDQ but its not a pleasant experience for a vacation and if you've never experienced it before - the motoconchos that rule the roads of Puerta Plata, Cabarete, Sosua and Rio San Juan can be quite disconcerting.
How about the "ready-made" charities? You guys ever experience these while driving your rental cars? -- I'll give you a visual.
You're driving along in say Boca Chica, doing about 20 mph and you approach a crest in the road with about 3 or 4 people standing on each side. Just as you approach the group they pull taut a thick chain that stretches across the width of the roadway and blocks your path. You hit the brakes and avoid hitting the chain (that would have scratched the ever-loving crap out of the entire hood and roof of your rental car) by inches!
As you sit there in disbelief one of the group pushes a little crippled child in a wheelchair up to the drivers door of your car with a sign in Spanish that reads "this child needs an operation so he can walk - please help!" The person pushing the wheelchair raps on your window with a large tin coffee can for "voluntary donations!"
A friend of mine once started yelling "I'm not giving you goddamn peso now move the goddamn chain!" - and they just ignoed him and stood there motionless.
They remained in that position for 10 straight minutes without moving. Eventually he had to back up and turn around and go down a different street!
These "ready-made" panhandlers work in groups, they may or may not be legitimate but are well known for targeting cars driven by Americanos and have been known to scratch up a car or two in their time.
Try explaining that to your credit card company's auto insurance carrier--
"Now let me try to understand this Mr. Smith, you're claiming that the $2500 worth of damage to your rental car was caused by a metal chain that was "pulled" across the street by a group of Dominicanos who's child had leukemia??" "You really expect us to believe that?"
"You would if you'd ever been to the DR" :D
Based on the info I have decided on the following. Take a cab to and from the airport to my motel in SDQ and then a bus across to Puerto Plata. I looked at taking a "private taxi" acorss to Puerto Plata but the 150 U.S. dollars seems high. I can't get an exact price for a bus but it looks like 10 U.S. dollars for each passenger. Anyone know?
Once in Puerto Plata I am going to try and rent a car for a day or two. I have rented a motorbike in Thailand and even though the driving is fast and furious (unsafe) I had a blast. Can you rent motorbikes is Pureto Plata to drive yourself?
I would lilke to get away from the significant other to do some exploring on my own.
Jet
ApostropheMan
11-26-06, 03:12
Caribe Tours is about 250 pesos each (to sosua) so possibly a bit less to puerto plata but is a decent way to get from santo domingo to puerto plata
Based on the info I have decided on the following. Take a cab to and from the airport to my motel in SDQ and then a bus across to Puerto Plata. I looked at taking a "private taxi" acorss to Puerto Plata but the 150 U.S. dollars seems high. I can't get an exact price for a bus but it looks like 10 U.S. dollars for each passenger. Anyone know?
Once in Puerto Plata I am going to try and rent a car for a day or two. I have rented a motorbike in Thailand and even though the driving is fast and furious (unsafe) I had a blast. Can you rent motorbikes is Pureto Plata to drive yourself?
I would lilke to get away from the significant other to do some exploring on my own.
Jet
Guys,
I know you heard this before. I was wondering where is good Hotel in Santo Dominago. I have looked at couple but not sure where all the action at and which are Chica friendly. Any help would be great. By the way I reguarly to Brazil 2 years and have one trip to San Jose, CA, trying to make my rounds on tour.
Here is one for the veterans. Other than New Years and Carnival, What are some other popular party and festive festival / holidays in the DR (any part)? I have not read much in the archives about this. I want to attend a Dominican celebration that only the Dominicans are celebrating.
Griot
Here is one for the veterans. Other than New Years and Carnival, What are some other popular party and festive festival / holidays in the DR (any part)? I have not read much in the archives about this. I want to attend a Dominican celebration that only the Dominicans are celebrating.
GriotSemana Santa,
Huge holiday and party time, just be careful on the roads, mucho borrachos en el caminos & autopistas.
Possible? Costs, problems, etc.?
Possible? Costs, problems, etc.?
Not avoiding the question, just directing you.
There are a couple of websites devoted to information in this regard. Most of the posters are long-time ex-pat residents.
One is:
Sosuadominicanrepublic@yahoogroups.com
Keep in mind this is a "normal" webite, NOT a monger site and though they are aware of the Sosua scene, they don't promote the lifestyle.
Good luck
I know DR isn't for anti-darkskin chicas mongers. But what is the prevalence of chicas on the 9-10 (looks reguardless of skin tone) provider scale in the DR? Since DR is about overnight how much (US) do 9-10 hotties run for estas nochas?
Is anyone headed to DR anytime in Jan. I'm a first timer and would lik to tag along with someone.
Dominicans getting fatter?
In the Dominican Republic, the proportion of overweight and obese people in the general population has reached 46%, while for children the figure is just 13.8%. At a conference at the National Evangelical University (UNEV), endocrinologist Dr. Socrates Manon reported the results of a study carried out in 2000. Dr. Manon cited data from several other national and international studies during his talk on "Healthy Eating". According to a study done by the National Center for Research on Maternal and Child Health (CENISMI), one in three children from middle and upper class homes is overweight or obese. In contrast, children between the ages of six and nine from low-income homes report a high index of poor nutrition. Dr. Manon argued for including Nutritional Education as part of the public and private school curriculum as part of the effort to combat what he calls "an epidemic" of overweight people.
Read this in ******** 12-6-6.
RenoGeorge
12-08-06, 21:55
Is anyone headed to DR anytime in Jan. I'm a first timer and would lik to tag along with someone.I will be in DR January 5th. I will be staying at the Palace.
Marc Anthony
12-13-06, 01:01
Do you mean the Piergiorgio Palace? As far as I know the Palace that was down the road from the Plaza Europa and was monger oriented has been closed for quite a long time. If it's not I'd be interested in the details.
RenoGeorge
12-18-06, 15:22
Do you mean the Piergiorgio Palace? As far as I know the Palace that was down the road from the Plaza Europa and was monger oriented has been closed for quite a long time. If it's not I'd be interested in the details.I changed my mind. I will be staying at the New Garden Hotel instead. Yes, Iwas talking about the old Palace that was closed down. From my understanding, the Palace is still open, but to only a select few that John lets in. I decided against it because of the reports of it going downhill.
I changed my mind. I will be staying at the New Garden Hotel instead. Yes, Iwas talking about the old Palace that was closed down. From my understanding, the Palace is still open, but to only a select few that John lets in. I decided against it because of the reports of it going downhill.Good move. Now you'll have hot water, clean towels, and a clean pool for less $.
Supertigre
12-18-06, 22:31
Is anyone headed to DR anytime in Jan. I'm a first timer and would lik to tag along with someone.Will be around Sosua January 17th to 24th, mostly with my novia, but if you are there then and need any help with Spanish translation, finding chicas etc. would be happy to assist.
One year ago, I took a bump on US Air. They gave me a voucher for a free ticket. Then I lost it, just found it. I have to book by Sat.
I know Costa Rica, Buenos Aires, Thailand, Cambodia, etc. But I haven't thought about DR until now.
I've been reading the reports, but I have little time to book the flight. My choices are Chgo to Santo Domingo or to Punta Cana. I'm thinking Punta Cana is mostly resorts and that I should fly to SD.
I can figure out the rest of my schedule later and local travels later, I just need to book ASAP. Santo Domingo ??
One year ago, I took a bump on US Air. They gave me a voucher for a free ticket. Then I lost it, just found it. I have to book by Sat.
I know Costa Rica, Buenos Aires, Thailand, Cambodia, etc. But I haven't thought about DR until now.
I've been reading the reports, but I have little time to book the flight. My choices are Chgo to Santo Domingo or to Punta Cana. I'm thinking Punta Cana is mostly resorts and that I should fly to SD.
I can figure out the rest of my schedule later and local travels later, I just need to book ASAP. Santo Domingo ??If you like to walk beautiful beaches, go to Punta Cana; however, if you prefer to fuck beautiful latinas, go to Santo Domingo.
The sex industry isn't as organized as it is in Thailand, Argentina, or Costa Rica; however, if you know the language, have game, and some money; your options won't be limited to just the working girls.
-Helpmann :)
if you prefer to fuck beautiful latinas, go to Santo Domingo.
OK, I'm sold. That's what I like to do. My Spanish is pretty good, money's not too tight, game - well, that's what the money's for, right?
I'll book SD, and continue reading the board. Any other suggestions would be appreciated. I'm thinking about 9 days. Should I move around to other places?
One year ago, I took a bump on US Air. They gave me a voucher for a free ticket. Then I lost it, just found it. I have to book by Sat.
I know Costa Rica, Buenos Aires, Thailand, Cambodia, etc. But I haven't thought about DR until now.
I've been reading the reports, but I have little time to book the flight. My choices are Chgo to Santo Domingo or to Punta Cana. I'm thinking Punta Cana is mostly resorts and that I should fly to SD.
I can figure out the rest of my schedule later and local travels later, I just need to book ASAP. Santo Domingo ??Punta Cana is A.I. only. Forget it. Check out Boca Chica when your in S.D.
OK, I'm sold. That's what I like to do. My Spanish is pretty good, money's not too tight, game - well, that's what the money's for, right?
I'll book SD, and continue reading the board. Any other suggestions would be appreciated. I'm thinking about 9 days. Should I move around to other places?With 9-days, you should move around the country.
For pussy purposes only, you should visit Sosua (5-hour bus ride north on Caribe Tours) and Boca Chica (45-minute local bus ride east.)
Frankly, you may just want to set-up "home base" in Boca Chica and travel to the capital (Santo Domingo.) Boca Chica is a tourist town that has been overrun with prostitutes and is a 10-minute drive from Las Americas (SDQ) airport, closer than Santo Domingo. I use Boca Chica as my "home base," but I spend much of my time in other places, such as Santo Domingo (entertainment and women) and Bayahibe (beautiful beaches.)
I get a $70/night 2-bedroom apartment (I could get a $40 studio apt, but I need the space and the furniture) and drive my rental car to where I need to be. If you're uncomfortable driving, you should consider finding an inexpensive hotel ($25/night) in Santo Domingo in the Gazcue neighborhood (it places you near the massage parlors and between the Malecon and El Conde, streets where you'll find pros) and commute to Boca Chica by gua-gua (local bus) in the day. You don't want the hassle of taking the buses in evenings and although, taxi's are RD$100 (US$3) within the borders of Santo Domingo, they are RD$1,000 (almost the cost of a 24-hr car rental) if you want to travel between Santo Domingo and Boca Chica.
Nevertheless, with 9-days you must:
* Spend a full Sunday (at least from 3pm-6pm) at Boca Chica beach.
* Spend a late afternoon Friday (3pm-6pm) at El Conde (historic street that has shopping and women)
* Spend a Friday/Saturday night on Duarte in Boca Chica (one weekend night is more than sufficient)
* Spend 3-nights in Sosua (3-nights is more than sufficient)
...and other hot spots in Santo Domingo: UASD campus, Independcia Ave, Acropolis Mall, the Malecon (George Washington Ave), and the casino of the Jaragua Hotel
BTW: I hope you're NOT traveling over the X-Mas/New Years Holiday. It's a Catholic country and the "fun" grinds to a halt over the 2-weeks.
-Helpmann :)
http://www.comdata.nl/hotel-boca-chica-candil/
http://www.costalunga.net/
http://www.hotelresidencia.com/
http://bocachicabeach.net/map.html
http://www.caribetours.com.do/
Im intrested in doing 3 weeks in the DR. Usually Im a cabarete/sosua person but I would like to do sosua - samana (las terrenas)-boca chica - SD and jarabacoa in that order. I will use caribe tours for most of my transportation .
Im intrested to see what I can pull in the non specific pfp areas and Im doing photography as well.
*Id like to go after new years in mid jan I could also go towards the end of Feb into march. Do you think it would make any difference in hotel availability food prices or chica pricing?
Thanks
Im intrested in doing 3 weeks in the DR. Usually Im a cabarete/sosua person but I would like to do Sosua - Samana (las terrenas)-boca chica - SD and Jarabacoa in that order. I will use Caribe Tours for most of my transportation.
I'm intrested to see what I can pull in the non specific pfp areas and Im doing photography as well.
*Id like to go after new years in mid jan I could also go towards the end of Feb into march. Do you think it would make any difference in hotel availability food prices or chica pricing?
ThanksMaybe a little higher for the hotel rooms but the food & chicas will be the same. The chicas need to eat all year long so there isn't a season where they raise their prices.
Texaco on the penninsula, I think. I leave airport with rental car on empty. Stop at the big gas station, fill it up. The attendent tries 4 credit cards, all he claims unsuccessfully. By this time, another attendent uses the pump and my gas price has disappeared. He demands $55 USA for 8 gallons! I refuse. I go into station to retrieve pesos from the machine. There is no possible appeal. To who? I offer the equivalent of $37, he accepts. This scumbag station is doing this to all tourists. Be aware.
Texaco on the penninsula, I think. I leave airport with rental car on empty. Stop at the big gas station, fill it up. The attendent tries 4 credit cards, all he claims unsuccessfully. By this time, another attendent uses the pump and my gas price has disappeared. He demands $55 USA for 8 gallons! I refuse. I go into station to retrieve pesos from the machine. There is no possible appeal. To who? I offer the equivalent of $37, he accepts. This scumbag station is doing this to all tourists. Be aware.1. Which rental car company gave you a car with no gas?
2. Why are you using your credit cards in the Dominican Republic?
3. Do you read the posts on this board?
-Helpmann :rolleyes:
Never use credit cards in DR. Carry enough cash. You use credit card only at rental car agency, Good hotel otherwise do not leave any paper trail. once they get hold of your credit card number there are many ways they can screw you. i know you are liable only for $50. This rule is only if you report your credit card stolen and you report it within 24 hours.
The charging people will claim that you
Hey Guys,
After spending hours and sometimes my whole weekends reading and relishing your posts and accounts of the good times in the D.R., I'm ready to take the plung. But I have a serious problem, due to my busy work schedule, the only days I can get off are Dec.31 to Jan 15. I know that D.R., like Costa Rica, is a catholic country and the holiday season is when all the chicas go home. So I would really appreciate if any of you veterans can give me the heads up on the situation.
P.S. Again my sincerest appreciation to all those who take their time and effort make tsm travel so much more eariser and pain free for us novices.
Regards,
Jay
I know some of this ground has been covered here before, but I have some questions that may clear things up for me.
I am flying into Puerto Plata in the middle of February for just shy of a week. This will be my third trip there, but my first on personal time. I want to rent a car for the duration of the trip. I drove from Santiago to the PP area last trip via rental car and was able to handle it OK. Since my last trip was on company time, I used my company AMEX card and did not worry about insurance. I did check with my personal Credit Card Company and am assured that it will cover collision damage, as well as windshield damage and tires. They also gave me a DR phone number to confirm this info as well as written documentation from their website. It does not however cover Liability. My company insurance policy covered out of country liability previously. When I checked on my personal car insurance, I was informed that I am only covered in the US and Canada. No riders were available to add this to my policy for international driving.
If memory serves me correctly my only insurance options at the rental facility (National Car Rental) dealt with CDW, windshield and tire damage and personal life insurance. The last thing I want to do is to do is mess up here.
Questions:
1) Aside from not driving (an option I do NOT want to explore), are there any suggestions in dealing with Liability Insurance there? I live in the US (Ohio to be specific) if this helps. I really want wheels and hope this doesn’t screw things up for me.
2) My cell phone might as well be a paperweight in the DR. I have kept in contact with home via the internet on past trips, but have found service to be spotty at best. I used a phone card once prior, but my Spanish is at a beginner+ level and I needed help from a local with each call. Any cost effective suggestions on keeping in phone contact would be appreciated.
3) I will probably spend a couple days at BB’s (my first two excursions were there exclusively and there are a couple of Chicas there that I have on my “To Do Again” list), but I want to base out of Sosua for several days and check out this type of mongering vs. that of being “a lazy monger”. It sounds like Europa or the New Garden are my best bets. I had thought about FOD but recent posts do not give me a warm and cozy feeling about it. (Many thanks to Loso69 for current info here.) Does it make any sense to make reservations beforehand at these properties, or just show up? Any other suggestions here are appreciated.
4) I want to bring my laptop with me on my trip (I feel naked without it). It was mentioned that Europa has safes big enough to store it while I am out exploring. Does the New Garden also provide this service and does anyone know if they have wireless at both of these hotels?
Your responses will be greatly appreciated.
Ponderosa
1. & 3. if you are going to rent a car you should consider staying at Barba Negra the first and last couple of days of your trip. There is a small local car rental office across the street from Jenny's market next to Biekers bar. He charges around $40 US a day for a Nissan and around $55 for a small SUV.
This way you can avoid renting a car at the airport which might run you $300 a week plus insurance. Grab a cab to Barba Negra and back to the airport.
2. if you use Verizon Wireless the coverage is excellent calling the US.
A little pricey though at $1.29 a minute roaming but worth it if you need reliable service.
4. Dont bother with a laptop unless you really need it for business. There are plenty of internet cafes around. If there is another scare where all bags have to be checked, where do you think that pretty laptop is going to go?
Hope this helps.
I know some of this ground has been covered here before, but I have some questions that may clear things up for me.
3) I will probably spend a couple days at BB’s (my first two excursions were there exclusively and there are a couple of Chicas there that I have on my “To Do Again” list), but I want to base out of Sosua for several days and check out this type of mongering vs. that of being “a lazy monger”. It sounds like Europa or the New Garden are my best bets. I had thought about FOD but recent posts do not give me a warm and cozy feeling about it. (Many thanks to Loso69 for current info here.) Does it make any sense to make reservations beforehand at these properties, or just show up? Any other suggestions here are appreciated.
4) I want to bring my laptop with me on my trip (I feel naked without it). It was mentioned that Europa has safes big enough to store it while I am out exploring. Does the New Garden also provide this service and does anyone know if they have wireless at both of these hotels?
Your responses will be greatly appreciated.Depending when you are going you may want to reserve a room at either hotel. Both hotels have telephone numbers & websites.
The restaurant in The Europa has wireless internet. I don't think the New Garden does though. Plenty of internet cafes though.
The safes at both hotels will not hold a laptop.
I know some of this ground has been covered here before, but I have some questions that may clear things up for me.
I am flying into Puerto Plata in the middle of February for just shy of a week. This will be my third trip there, but my first on personal time. I want to rent a car for the duration of the trip. I drove from Santiago to the PP area last trip via rental car and was able to handle it OK. Since my last trip was on company time, I used my company AMEX card and did not worry about insurance. I did check with my personal Credit Card Company and am assured that it will cover collision damage, as well as windshield damage and tires. They also gave me a DR phone number to confirm this info as well as written documentation from their website. It does not however cover Liability. My company insurance policy covered out of country liability previously. When I checked on my personal car insurance, I was informed that I am only covered in the US and Canada. No riders were available to add this to my policy for international driving.
If memory serves me correctly my only insurance options at the rental facility (National Car Rental) dealt with CDW, windshield and tire damage and personal life insurance. The last thing I want to do is to do is mess up here.
Questions:
1) Aside from not driving (an option I do NOT want to explore), are there any suggestions in dealing with Liability Insurance there? I live in the US (Ohio to be specific) if this helps. I really want wheels and hope this doesn’t screw things up for me.
3) I will probably spend a couple days at BB’s (my first two excursions were there exclusively and there are a couple of Chicas there that I have on my “To Do Again” list), but I want to base out of Sosua for several days and check out this type of mongering vs. that of being “a lazy monger”. It sounds like Europa or the New Garden are my best bets. I had thought about FOD but recent posts do not give me a warm and cozy feeling about it. (Many thanks to Loso69 for current info here.) Does it make any sense to make reservations beforehand at these properties, or just show up? Any other suggestions here are appreciated.
4)Your responses will be greatly appreciated.
Ponderosa,
Regarding insurance, check with your crredit card company. Many will provide basic collision insurance for international rentals. Mine does. I only use national rental agencies, as it is easier to deal with any problems. they will offer you insurance covering liability/injury for pedestrians, other vehicles, etc. TAKE IT. Just in case. It is worth the peace of mind.
Regarding FOD, I don't agree with Loso. I found Billy to be a good guy.
In th circumstances described, he was clearly angry that he was being taken advantage of. (He certainly was in my opinion.) When you rent a room at FOD, the tours of PP to customers is not included. Its strictly a courtesy.
To have Billy drive guys around, have HIM pick up the tab for drinks, no payment for gas, etc, HELL YES he was angry. I would bed too.
In exchange for being shown around, translation,s etc, the GUESTS should have paid for his drinks, -"lady drinks" or not, and offered to pay for gas.
Hey fellow mongers,
I was wondering if any of you veteran mongers have any advice on buying property in D.R. And a few names of reputable, bilingual realtors,and/or lawyers. I'm using the "looking for property" an excuse, but a report on my findings will be expected of me when I return.
Your advice like always is greatly appreciated. P.M. if necessary.
Thanks for the info Yanqui, Guthrie and Drwoo. It does help.
One dumb follow up on the phone business. I read somewhere on the forums about buying a sim card for the DR and then loading it. Does anyone know anything about that? I have Cingular and my phone does use a sim card.
I think I have the rental car figured out. I decided to go with a national firm (Budget) and they offer liability right from the airport. I thought of taking a taxi to BB's from POP, but it is $35us each way and that goes a long way to the car. I got the car for just over $30us a day and $7 a day for the liability coverage.
In looking at recent posts on other threads, it looks like there are quite a few guys who have had positive experiences at FOD. I guess it is back on my list of possibilities. I liked the recent post by Escort King in the PP thread that talked about whether to stay at the action, or chill out a bit away at FOD and still enjoy the benefits. It seems that Loso has touched a nerve and there are alot of mongers coming to Billy's defense.
Another dumb question here, with the time I have available (probably 3 days/nights in Sosua) would you split it between FOD and maybe Europa for your first solo visit there? Any other suggestions would also be appreciated.
Silly thing is, I know once I am down there it will all come together, but sometimes I am a worry wart. The other thing is I know I will only be able to come down here so many times and I really want to have the best time available.
Another dumb question here, with the time I have available (probably 3 days/nights in Sosua) would you split it between FOD and maybe Europa for your first solo visit there? Any other suggestions would also be appreciated.
No offense to Field of Dreams but there is so much more action,street live, beach in Sosua. If you have down time you can still walk around the town of Sosua to check out what the shops look like, beach, casino, La Passions massage, M & M Massage, local bars, etc. , etc. If in Sosua stop by Lou's Shark Bar to touch base with some Americanos there.
I would stay in Sosua first. If you don't like it check into F.O.D.
Thanks for the info Yanqui, Guthrie and Drwoo. It does help.
One dumb follow up on the phone business. I read somewhere on the forums about buying a sim card for the DR and then loading it. Does anyone know anything about that? I have Cingular and my phone does use a sim card.
I think I have the rental car figured out. I decided to go with a national firm (Budget) and they offer liability right from the airport. I thought of taking a taxi to BB's from POP, but it is $35us each way and that goes a long way to the car. I got the car for just over $30us a day and $7 a day for the liability coverage.
In looking at recent posts on other threads, it looks like there are quite a few guys who have had positive experiences at FOD. I guess it is back on my list of possibilities. I liked the recent post by Escort King in the PP thread that talked about whether to stay at the action, or chill out a bit away at FOD and still enjoy the benefits. It seems that Loso has touched a nerve and there are alot of mongers coming to Billy's defense.
Another dumb question here, with the time I have available (probably 3 days/nights in Sosua) would you split it between FOD and maybe Europa for your first solo visit there? Any other suggestions would also be appreciated.
Silly thing is, I know once I am down there it will all come together, but sometimes I am a worry wart. The other thing is I know I will only be able to come down here so many times and I really want to have the best time available.
If this is your first time driving in the DR:
Watch out for the Motoconchos. They are all suicidal.
They will cut off cars with a motorbike, pass on the wrong side, etc.
I once got in the left lane, put a turn signal on, waited for a gap in oncoming traffkc, started to make a left turn, -and had an idiot and his passenger slam into my car (driver side) ripping off the rear view mirror and damaging the door. (passing on the left in the oncoming lane, no atttention to miy turn signal).
Make turns slowly and gradually so the idiots can react to it.
Watch out a full 360 degrees around you. No one obeys any traffic rules.
Im planning a three week trip to the DR for my third visit. After figuring out my budget I notice it would be cheaper and less hassle to rent an apartment and travel from there and pay for hotels on the road rather than mid range hotel it all the way.
I know once I get there I will have many options but what about these online rental companies on debbies dominican travel page etc. ?
More importantly do you think apartment renters will accept travelers checks or credit cards (if I feel secure with them) ?
Do you think apartment owners(in sosua or boca chica) have the same rules as hotels about bringing girls back.... would anyone monitor this?
Im thinking boca chica vs sosua because Ive never been there and I have SD so close which I would like to visit as well. I'd like to see more of the DR I havent seen but get laid along the way. Is this suicide will I kick myself for not staying in good old sosua?
Hi there, I’m a long time lurker and need some advise.
I’m going to have one week to travel to the Caribbean with a buddy. We are both in our early 30’s and have been give time off from the SO’s. We have narrow the search down to the Caribbean only because of we don’t want to spent 24 hours in a plane to go over sea’s otherwise I think Thailand would be our 1st option.
However, that been said I have been to Mexico Cancun Palya de caramen, Cuba Veradaro and Jamaica Nigril before with the wife. I never got an opportunity to hobby. TBH, I’m not sure there is much at those places for the hobby.
Here are some questions I hope some of you might be able to answer.
Where in the Caribbean should be go? We want to be able to hobby but also want to have some beach days and travel on some tours as well. We would like a resort near some night life.
Should we book an All Inclusive hotel? (We will want separate rooms)
If so what AI resorts would be best for us?
If not would hotels would be best?
Hope this is not to much to ask.
Thanks in advance.
..... I read somewhere on the forums about buying a sim card for the DR and then loading it. Does anyone know anything about that? I have Cingular and my phone does use a sim card....
Ponderosa:
You need to make sure that your phone is "unlocked" to put a different SIM card in it. Usually Cingular are OK about giving you the code if you have been a customer for a while. Failing that, there are resources on the Web that can help you unlock the phone - just Google.
I am pretty sure that Orange Dominicana are the local GSM provider using GSM 1800/1900 MHz frequencies so you need to make sure your phone runs 1900 MHz. Buggered if I can remember if that is a Tri-band or a Quad-band phone, except I do know a Quad band phone is OK.
Regards
Polvo
[QUOTE=Spastar]Hi there, I’m a long time lurker and need some advise.
I’m going to have one week to travel to the Caribbean with a buddy. We are both in our early 30’s and have been give time off from the SO’s. We have narrow the search down to the Caribbean only because of we don’t want to spent 24 hours in a plane to go over sea’s otherwise I think Thailand would be our 1st option.
However, that been said I have been to Mexico Cancun Palya de caramen, Cuba Veradaro and Jamaica Nigril before with the wife. I never got an opportunity to hobby. TBH, I’m not sure there is much at those places for the hobby.
Here are some questions I hope some of you might be able to answer.
Where in the Caribbean should be go? We want to be able to hobby but also want to have some beach days and travel on some tours as well. We would like a resort near some night life.
Sosua. The Town Has the night life.
Close to a great beach in Cabarette & sight seeing in Puerto Plata.
Plenty of bars open until 1AM & 2AM ON Friday & Saturday.
Should we book an All Inclusive hotel? (We will want separate rooms)
Check out the Europa or The New Garden Hotel. They are chica friendly.
A.I. will not let in a guest.
If so what AI resorts would be best for us?
PLAYA DORAL(?) IN PUERTO PLATA has about 8 A.I. all together with a golf course.
If not would hotels would be best?
See above. If A.I. is a must there are acceptable hotel rooms that can be rented for about $25-30 day. Sleep in the A.I. , use the other room as a party room.
Hope this is not to much to ask.
Ponderosa:
You need to make sure that your phone is "unlocked" to put a different SIM card in it. Usually Cingular are OK about giving you the code if you have been a customer for a while. Failing that, there are resources on the Web that can help you unlock the phone - just Google.
I am pretty sure that Orange Dominicana are the local GSM provider using GSM 1800/1900 MHz frequencies so you need to make sure your phone runs 1900 MHz. Buggered if I can rememebr if that is a Tri-band or a Quad-band phone, except I do know a Quad band phone is OK.
Regards
PolvoAny Orange shop will unlock your phone and if they can't they'll point you to a phone retailer who could and provide you with an Orange SIM $350RD. Tri-bands from the US is OK because it uses 850, 1800 & 1900MHz, its the dual band that will get you dropped calls in certain areas.
Spastar,
I'd agree that sosua is a good bet.
Since it sounds like hobbying is not the primary purpose of your trip, I would strongly suggest you book at one of the AI resorts to have access to the resort amenities some of the purists on this board sometimes don't value. That way you retain a lot of the "vacation" feel and have an oasis away from a lot of the bullshit you have to deal with in a town setting. I stayed at the Casa Marina Reef and was happy. Check prices on any of the travel sites and you'll see the prices are reasonable.
Get a couple of cheap rooms at a local hotel like the Europa for the times you need a place to bring the chicas. If you do not plan to monger everyday, just get the rooms as you need them. If money is a concern, I would stay two guys in a room while at the AI (is it really a big deal to share a room with your buddy if your not bringing girls back?)
Over the years I noticed that I actually save money by going to some AIs. The fact that they keep me occupied during the day with free activities stops me from spending money on nonesense while trying to kill time. This was especially true in the rookie years when getting scammed is a higher probability!
Have fun and be safe.
MC
I also agree that DR is a good destination for spastar. I would also suggest Curcaao, Aruba, or Costa Rica for him and his pals. Panama may also fit his bill.
Any Orange shop will unlock your phone and if they can't they'll point you to a phone retailer who could and provide you with an Orange SIM $350RD. Tri-bands from the US is OK because it uses 850, 1800 & 1900MHz, its the dual band that will get you dropped calls in certain areas.Thanks Terry and Polvo,
I am sure my phone is at least a tri-band as it is one of the newer ones (Cingular 8125).
Once I get the SIM card, does it allow for local calls only, or do you pre-load minutes so I can call home (or even something else)? I really appreciate this as I started looking at some of the mobile phone geek sites and was totally confused. Thanks in advance.
Thanks Terry and Polvo,
I am sure my phone is at least a tri-band as it is one of the newer ones (Cingular 8125).
Once I get the SIM card, does it allow for local calls only, or do you pre-load minutes so I can call home (or even something else)? I really appreciate this as I started looking at some of the mobile phone geek sites and was totally confused. Thanks in advance.The SIM card allows for local(809 & 829) calls and international calls to the US. You will also need to buy Orange phone cards, which comes in denominations of $100RD and up. They sell them all over the place, stores, pharmacies, gas stations and even teenagers walking up and down the highways. When you buy one, take it out of the plastic and scratch off the film to reveal the numerical code you'll need to punch in to add minutes. The directions are on the back of the card, but if you need help, pretty much every dominican knows how to do it. Incoming is free, you'll have a local number to use and having a cell phone is best for the traveling mongerer. Also, that number will be saved up to three months, so upon your return, just switch SIM cards, buy a phone card and you are up and running.
Thanks Terry and Polvo,
I am sure my phone is at least a tri-band as it is one of the newer ones (Cingular 8125).
Once I get the SIM card, does it allow for local calls only, or do you pre-load minutes so I can call home (or even something else)? I really appreciate this as I started looking at some of the mobile phone geek sites and was totally confused. Thanks in advance.
Ponderosa:
Your phone is a Quad band so you are safe in the DR and virtually anywhere else in the world.
You can use pre-paid (pre-load) minutes on the phone to call home but bring vaseline as it will hurt. I have two alternative suggestions for this;
1) Get a calling card from your US based landline carrier as it will give you a 1-800 equivalent to call home and will be cheaper than pre-paid minutes;
2) Sign up for a "call back" service like UWT. You call a specific US number on your cellular and hang up the minute it "rings". Then you will be called back on your designated local cellular number. This is mid-cost between option 1 and pure pre-paid but still waaay cheaper than pure pre-paid. Also no annoying paper trail!
Christ, I'm turning into a geek. Please, ask me a question about finding girls for sex!!
Suerte
Polvo
Supertigre
01-05-07, 04:14
Ponderosa:
Your phone is a Quad band so you are safe in the DR and virtually anywhere else in the world.
You can use pre-paid (pre-load) minutes on the phone to call home but bring vaseline as it will hurt. I have two alternative suggestions for this;
1) Get a calling card from your US based landline carrier as it will give you a 1-800 equivalent to call home and will be cheaper than pre-paid minutes;
2) Sign up for a "call back" service like UWT. You call a specific US number on your cellular and hang up the minute it "rings". Then you will be called back on your designated local cellular number. This is mid-cost between option 1 and pure pre-paid but still waaay cheaper than pure pre-paid. Also no annoying paper trail!
Christ, I'm turning into a geek. Please, ask me a question about finding girls for sex!!
Suerte
PolvoCalling the US costs the same as a local call in the DR with a prepaid cell phone like Orange. For short calls you might just as well use the local service. If you need to make long calls to the US, then you would probably do better with one of the above mentioned methods.
I doubt anyone will accept hundered dollar bills but has anyone used 50's ?
The santo domingo hotels(that I will be using) only accept cash and they quote the prices in US dollars. Other than that it's all about the peso.
Artisttyp
I never had a problem with using large bills at hotels or other larger businesses. To avoid problems, try to get crisp notes with the latest security feaures.
Regards,
MC
Well Fellas,
I've taken the plunge and I'm going to Vikings Exotic Resort in March. This is something that I've been thinking about for years, and finally decided to do. I'm getting there a day early and will be staying the first night on another property, so the nice people at Vikings have arranged for two "high quality" local girls to spend that night with me (at a cost, of course). When I first arrive, my package comes with "VIP" service at the airport, which, they tell me, means I'll get "whisked" through immigration and customs.
The next day, I'll get picked up at 2:00 PM and get whisked to the Vikings resort.
I've gotten the "Ultimate Fantasy Package", which means I'll get a VIP Suite at the resort, and TWO girls every day. I'll be staying for 4 nights, and on the first day and each day thereafter, there'll be an afternoon cocktail party where the guests can meet the girls who are available for the coming day. Because of my Ultimate Fantasy Package, I will get first choice of the available girls not only on that first day, but on each succeeding day if I choose to switch either or both girls out for the next day.
Yes, this is costing a LOT of money, and I know that, with some research and effort, I can do better by checking out all the various locations where girls gather in this country or that blah blah blah blah blah blah. Don't bother telling me that (I also don't need to hear "a fool and his money blah blah blah blah"). I am looking forward to this so much that I can barely stand to wait the two months until I go.
The first night with the two local girls who are "very loving, romantic, and beautiful" (according to Vikings, okay, so we'll see) is just a lovely additional sweetness that makes this all the more attractive to me.
As I said, it's not for a couple of months yet, but I'll let you all know how it turns out. - Tripp
Hi Trippstadt,
I'm not flaming you and I'm not criticizing you. (honest)
I also have no doubt that you will be spending your evenings down there in the company of some very pretty young ladies. (They do sign up some real beauties.) :)
Would you humor me though and give me a general idea of what the package includes and around what kind of price tag your looking at?
just curious................
Hi Trippstadt,
I'm not flaming you and I'm not criticizing you. (honest)
I also have no doubt that you will be spending your evenings down there in the company of some very pretty young ladies. (They do sign up some real beauties.) :)
Would you humor me though and give me a general idea of what the package includes and around what kind of price tag your looking at?
Just curious.You are really a good guy because I am sure that most mongers will give this guy hell for the vast overpayment. I hope Trippstadt has "thick" skin when the mongers go wild. I have read on other DR forms that the 4-5 day Viking package runs about $4, 500 us dollars. Someone please tell me this is NOT correct! At $40 a wack, you could bang over 100 chicas for that amount of dinero. Trippstadt would you please give the mongers a detailed report on your experience and the TOTAL cost!
Hi,, Trippstadt,
I'm not flaming you and I'm not criticizing you. (honest)
I also have no doubt that you will be spending your evenings down there in the company of some very pretty young ladies. (They do sign up some real beauties.):)
Would you humor me though and give me a general idea of what the package includes and around what kind of price tag your looking at?
Just curious.Ford,
I'll be happy to, of course. The "Ultimate Fantasy Package" for 4 days and 3 nights costs $7, 900. The extra night costs $2, 000, so the price tag right there is $9, 900. Also, they add $100 per night per girl in "gratuities" to your bill, so 4 nights with 2 girls comes to an extra $800 there. Also, they add $50 per night in gratuities for the household staff, so that's yet another $200, bringing the Vikings bill to a grand total of $10, 900.
On top of this, I'm coming in a day early and Vikings has arranged to have 2 "romantic and beautiful" local girls spend the night with me at my hotel. Their list price for that service is $1, 000 per girl, and if I had negotiated a different price with them for that service, then it would be improper for me to present that here (wink wink nudge nudge).
You can get their basic package which is 4 days / 3 nights with one girl for $3, 900, and frankly, all of their packages / prices are listed on their website (www.cat69.com)
To all of you reading this, yes, yes, I know that I'm overpaying for sex. Please no flaming about this. I wanted to do this, and I'm doing it. I know that many of you are miserable about how much money I'm wasting; .). Tripp
I hope this doesnt come off wrong but why didnt you want to buy an expedia deal or use any of the information on ISG ? Besides wanting to treat yourself did anything else sway your decision?
It sounds like alot of fun have a great time.
Member #4351
01-11-07, 23:18
I´ve written and erased three comments on Trippstadt´s posts. This is so unbelievable that there is nothing I can say to express my horror. I hope that he is joking.
I know, I know, I know. Next time, I'll use ALL of the resources and advice I can find on ISG, and elsewhere, and I promise I'll do you all proud, be it the DR, or Brazil, or wherever. I'll get the best bang for my buck (still focusing on very beautiful, high quality providers. From THAT I will not budge) and I'll bring back the stories, the pictures, the contact information, everything I can that'll help anyone else out who's planning a similar endeavor.
But for THIS time, I've decided to go THIS way... this (I know) incredibly expensive, over-priced, crazy once-in-a-lifetime splurge where every little thing has been done for me, and all I have to do is to show up in paradise and be surrounded by beautiful and willing young girls all day, every day, until it's over. The money for it has been put away, the trip has been scheduled, everything has been planned and confirmed.
I feel your pain, but I'm too giddy for it to bother me. You don't know my situation, but truthfully, I'll never miss the money, and I'll always have those memories. Don't hate me. ;-) - Tripp
Expedia has sex vacations?
Ford,
I'll be happy to, of course. The "Ultimate Fantasy Package" for 4 days and 3 nights costs $7, 900. The extra night costs $2, 000, so the price tag right there is $9, 900. Also, they add $100 per night per girl in "gratuities" to your bill, so 4 nights with 2 girls comes to an extra $800 there. Also, they add $50 per night in gratuities for the household staff, so that's yet another $200, bringing the Vikings bill to a grand total of $10, 900.You have to report back w/ photos!! Have a great trip!!
-Helpmann :)
HEY TRIPP,
It is your money to spend the way you see fit. I hope you have a great time. While you are gone I am preparing a list of goods and services I have to offer. You are my kind of customer!!!! Matter of fact I am hiring a HOT new female life guard for my oceanfront private beach in Tennessee!
God Bless America!
Holy crap,Tripp! Those chicas must be REALLY high quality! For that money you could go to Northridge and party for a week with your choice of nubile young porn actresses.
Maybe you'll run into Rush L. while you're there.
Holy crap,Tripp! Those chicas must be REALLY high quality! For that money you could go to Northridge and party for a week with your choice of nubile young porn actresses.
Maybe you'll run into Rush L. while you're there.I knew I'd take this abuse if I posted my trip plans here. Now, I'm going to be miserable that whole week thinking about what I would-a-could-a-should-a done. ;-)
Hong Kong Boy
01-12-07, 06:16
Tripp, How good of time you will have all depent on the girls.Like anywhere else some will give you gfs some will not.
About picking the girl it is first come first serve.
The girl you have at Prague are better looking IMHO.
The villa they have now is not as nice as the one they have before.All in all I think you'll have a good time.
The local girl the pick all better as giving gfs.
P.S take a look at exoticretreat.net
I saw a piece on the Viking resort on the Playboy channel a couple of years ago. The women shown were TOP NOTCH and from all over the world.
Have a great time. I look forward to reading your report.
MC
I knew I'd take this abuse if I posted my trip plans here. Now, I'm going to be miserable that whole week thinking about what I would-a-could-a-should-a done. ;-)
Tripp,
You won't get any flaming from me. I would have had a problem if your post was one of those "unsolicited ads" thinly disguised as post. I saw from previous posts you like the "high end stuff". If money was not the object, I probably would love to join you there. Trouble is most mongers on the board, myself included, do not have the resources to do such a trip. That is why most of us look and many found more cost effective way to monger.
I live vicariously through some of the posts here and know I will never be able to duplicate a trip such as yours. So go out, have a great time, take pics and tell us all about it, including if it was worth it or not.
Thanks Fellas,
Yep, I'll do my best to post a good trip report. I'll even bring my REAL camera, rather than use my cell phone, though I can't guarantee that every girl will allow me to photograph her.
Tripp
I knew I'd take this abuse if I posted my trip plans here. Now, I'm going to be miserable that whole week thinking about what I would-a-could-a-should-a done. ;-)
Heck, Tripp, I didn't mean to flame you or burst your bubble.
Fact is, I'm totally jealous! How amazingly great it must be to be able to afford such an expensive week of delicious debauchery. I expect you'll have a truly amazing time.
If you ever need a hired helper to accompany you, PM me!
Heck, Tripp, I didn't mean to flame you or burst your bubble.
Fact is, I'm totally jealous! How amazingly great it must be to be able to afford such an expensive week of delicious debauchery. I expect you'll have a truly amazing time.
If you ever need a hired helper to accompany you, PM me!Congratulations Naughty, you're the 100th person to offer to accompany me (at my cost, of course). The prize for that is a free trip to Vikings with me! Unfortunately, the Resort is sold out, but you can come with me to Blackbeards later this year.
Tripp
Trippstadt-
Well, that's quite a sum, and (to be honest) quite a bit more than I had expected - but I appreciate your honesty and it would be nice if you share some stories and photos when you return. :)
FORD
RockHound74
01-14-07, 15:11
Tripp,
Dude have a great time. I had a relative go a few years ago. The women are top notch but to the variety that mongers get in Sousa and the rest on the DR. These girls are primarily from Russia and eastern Europe. Most will knock your socks off. I saw a "video" that was awsome. I wish I could share but my cousin only showed me once. He said he was going back next year when he gets a break from work: D LOL
Anyway I will be haeding to Blackbeards in March and have found a ton of great info on this board and some other DR boards. If anyone is going maybe I will see you there.
Member #4351
01-14-07, 23:31
Trippstadt, well with what you´re spending I hope they don´t insist on CBJs.
Yeah David, that CBJ's, under the circumstances, really WOULD be a bummer.
Really, I could've gotten away with half the cost or so, but this is my "dream" vacation, and I decided to splurge for the Ultimate Fantasy Package, which is like twice as expensive as the basic package. Not only does it come with TWO girls every day (another fantasy of mine), but I get "First Choice" each day of the available girls. That might not seem like such a big deal to some of you, since all the girls will be attractive, but I know myself, and it would just KILL me to see the girl I'm dying for right there in front of me, know that she's available and I'm paying for her, and see her picked by some other guy "ahead of me in line" so to speak. That "First Choice" benefit is really why I took this package, more so than the extra girl each day.
I know I'm crazy but WTF!
Tripp
Your not crazy. If you've got it to spend, why not. I'll be interested in your report. I did a Viking trip in 2004. I had a great time. 5 star all the way. I hope you enjoy it as much.
Yeah David, that CBJ's, under the circumstances, really WOULD be a bummer.
Really, I could've gotten away with half the cost or so, but this is my "dream" vacation, and I decided to splurge for the Ultimate Fantasy Package, which is like twice as expensive as the basic package. Not only does it come with TWO girls every day (another fantasy of mine), but I get "First Choice" each day of the available girls. That might not seem like such a big deal to some of you, since all the girls will be attractive, but I know myself, and it would just KILL me to see the girl I'm dying for right there in front of me, know that she's available and I'm paying for her, and see her picked by some other guy "ahead of me in line" so to speak. That "First Choice" benefit is really why I took this package, more so than the extra girl each day.
I know I'm crazy but WTF!
Tripp
To all:
I'm considering taking a cellphone (GSM 850/1800) to the DR.
Can anyone say whether there will be any problems in using this in the DR with locally purchased chip/card?
Gracias
To all:
I'm considering taking a cellphone (GSM 850/1800) to the DR.
Can anyone say whether there will be any problems in using this in the DR with locally purchased chip/card?
Gracias
I guess a better question is: is cellular coverage in the DR 1800 or 1900 Mhz?
I guess a better question is: is cellular coverage in the DR 1800 or 1900 Mhz?http://www.gsmworld.com/roaming/gsminfo/cou_do.shtml
Gentlemen, (No!, I mean YOU!!)
Many thanks to those that have responded to my questions about cell phones. Can’t beat input from residents (Mr Happy, DomWolf) with personal experience. Also to Si Poppi for intro to gsmworld.com, very informative; check the site.
I’ve been learning a lot about RD/DR cell phones in the last 24 hours. Hopefully this will summarize.
There are two systems in RD, GSM and CDMA. Verizon (now Claro) uses CDMA and apparently also GSM 850/1900 Mhz. Orange (partner of Cingular) uses GSM 1800/1900 Mhz.
A US Verizon CDMA tri-band cellphone (according to their site) is roaming capable in the RD. Instead of roaming charges, one should be able to get swapped with a local CDMA chip at the local Claro shop.
Most cellular phone shops should be able to “unlock” a US phone as long as it has a compatible system or frequency.
Any GSM phone using 850 or 1800 or 1900 should be able to get a local cell company chip loaded from a RD cellular company. A Verizon phone should be able to get a local CDMA chip from Claro. Cingular or any other GSM should be able to get “fixed” at Orange (and now possibly Claro as well, if it is going to GSM).
Depending on which local is speaking, Verizon/Claro may have the best coverage. A visit to Verizon’s international services RD index lists just about every major town (check it) in the RD.
Cheap unlocked GSM phones can be obtained from Ebay or tigerdirect.com.
I may take an older model GSM (850/1900) which should be fine.
Hope this helps.
Yanqui69
Gentlemen, (No!, I mean YOU!!)
Many thanks to those that have responded to my questions about cell phones. Can’t beat input from residents (Mr Happy, DomWolf) with personal experience. Also to Si Poppi for intro to gsmworld.com, very informative; check the site.
I’ve been learning a lot about RD/DR cell phones in the last 24 hours. Hopefully this will summarize.
There are two systems in RD, GSM and CDMA. Verizon (now Claro) uses CDMA and apparently also GSM 850/1900 Mhz. Orange (partner of Cingular) uses GSM 1800/1900 Mhz.
A US Verizon CDMA tri-band cellphone (according to their site) is roaming capable in the RD. Instead of roaming charges, one should be able to get swapped with a local CDMA chip at the local Claro shop.
Most cellular phone shops should be able to “unlock” a US phone as long as it has a compatible system or frequency.
Any GSM phone using 850 or 1800 or 1900 should be able to get a local cell company chip loaded from a RD cellular company. A Verizon phone should be able to get a local CDMA chip from Claro. Cingular or any other GSM should be able to get “fixed” at Orange (and now possibly Claro as well, if it is going to GSM).
Depending on which local is speaking, Verizon/Claro may have the best coverage. A visit to Verizon’s international services RD index lists just about every major town (check it) in the RD.
Cheap unlocked GSM phones can be obtained from Ebay or tigerdirect.com.
I may take an older model GSM (850/1900) which should be fine.
Hope this helps.
Yanqui69
Thanks again!
Any reason why in 2005 my verizon phone worked in Sosua but in 2006
all I got was a "busy" tone when I dialed. Later that week in Santiago, the same phone worked.
Gentlemen, (No!, I mean YOU!!)
Many thanks to those that have responded to my questions about cell phones. Can’t beat input from residents (Mr Happy, DomWolf) with personal experience. Also to Si Poppi for intro to gsmworld.com, very informative; check the site.
I’ve been learning a lot about RD/DR cell phones in the last 24 hours. Hopefully this will summarize.
There are two systems in RD, GSM and CDMA. Verizon (now Claro) uses CDMA and apparently also GSM 850/1900 Mhz. Orange (partner of Cingular) uses GSM 1800/1900 Mhz.
A US Verizon CDMA tri-band cellphone (according to their site) is roaming capable in the RD. Instead of roaming charges, one should be able to get swapped with a local CDMA chip at the local Claro shop.
Most cellular phone shops should be able to “unlock” a US phone as long as it has a compatible system or frequency.
Any GSM phone using 850 or 1800 or 1900 should be able to get a local cell company chip loaded from a RD cellular company. A Verizon phone should be able to get a local CDMA chip from Claro. Cingular or any other GSM should be able to get “fixed” at Orange (and now possibly Claro as well, if it is going to GSM).
Depending on which local is speaking, Verizon/Claro may have the best coverage. A visit to Verizon’s international services RD index lists just about every major town (check it) in the RD.
Cheap unlocked GSM phones can be obtained from Ebay or tigerdirect.com.
I may take an older model GSM (850/1900) which should be fine.
Hope this helps.
Yanqui69
accurate post, but your GSM (850/1900) will drop calls when you move out of the 1900 coverage area, i.e. driving from Santiago to Sosua.
Travelocity had the best long term rates. To the contrary, Prestige's rates were about double the rates of the usual names. Avoid!
What is going on with the weather in the Dr these days ? The news reports(weather.com) say rainy thunderstorms and clouds for days to come....this is supposed to be high season. Can anyone down there verify this. Thank you in advance.
What is going on with the weather in the Dr these days ? The news reports(weather.com) say rainy thunderstorms and clouds for days to come....this is supposed to be high season. Can anyone down there verify this. Thank you in advance.Cool and wet in the middle of the week. Today, friday, is picture perfect.
Here's the bottom line:
ONLY Orange offers GSM service....which i took. I only bought a new charger (110 volts) and a simcard (through my amiga) for 350 pesos...and my Motorola was ready to rock in the DR. The rates itself to phone are NOT exactly cheap....i beleive about 12 pesos a min WITHIN the island..if you make abroad calls to the US/Europe it will be more expensive.
Other companies such as Verizon,Tricom,Centenial and Claro use CDMA....an older system which still is used widely in North-America...and central and South America and some parts of Asia. Most European,African and also more and more Asian countries use the newer GSM technologies.
About rates i can say that Orange has a lot of cheapo's lately..... 1-2 weeks ago Tricom had some problems with the network...and stayed offline for several HOURS on the whole island!!
During my 3 weeks stay in DR i NEVER had any probs with my Motorola on Orange network.
peace
Johan
What i don't understand is the fact that I can (as a gringo) rent an apartment on MY name....but are NOT able to put the electricity bill on my name too!!!
For that (again) my amiga was needed...to help me out.
I mean..WTF.....!
One advice for guys who want to settle down LT on the Island....do NOT show your aircon unit if the electricety company (CDE) comes by to put a meter inside your house/app.....because IF they see such unit they'll charge you a HIGHER rate per kWh..!!!!!!!!!As you know electricety rates are quite high on the DR....and a monthly bill of 2000-3000 pesos is NOT unusual.
Best thing is just to WAIT with installation AFTER they put the meter....;-)
a normal fan did the job for me while waiting for that...:-)
For just putting the meter you have to pay another 1500 DOP's.....remember if they catch you tapping iillegal power...you get fined at least a 10.000 DOP's fine!!!
And don't forget...YOU ARE THE GRINGO IN THE BARRIO...AND WORD TRAVELS FAST YOU HAVE AN AIRCON UNIT!!!!!!!!;-) SO PLS KEEP IT LOW PROFILE.
Johan
Fellas,
I just posted a Vikings Pre-Trip Report in the Puerta Plata forum, which is where I'll be posting all my Vikings Trip Reports, when I go later this month.
I see them searching men all the time in the clubs.
I see them searching men all the time in the clubs.
You need a permit for the concealed handgun and clubs don't allow weapons inside their establishment, they risk getting closed down.
an aircon unit? And why do they charge more? How do I prevent mine from being "discovered" ?
an aircon unit? And why do they charge more? How do I prevent mine from being "discovered" ?
I meant an airconditioning unit. Normaly you have a unit INSIDE a room (most likely your bedroom) and you have a unit up on the roof or against the outside wall.
Only God knows why they charge you more......! In most countries it doesn't matter WHAT kind of equipment you have....as long as you pay for the usage!
NOT so in the DR.....!! IF they see you have an aircon unit they charge you a HIGHER rate for ALL used electricity in your house/appartment..!!! Seems pretty unfair...and it is...:-(
Electricity rates are pretty steep anyway in the DR and fe. TWICE as high as in Panama or any other country in the area that I know of. For normal families (and most Dominicans do NOT have an aircon unit!) with up to 3-4 kids and 2 adults this means a regular power bill between 1500-2000 pesos EACH month!
Many people steel electricity...and accordingly DIE when trying to temper with the cables. If you are in the DR and watch the news/read the newspapers you'll know what i mean.
The power company only comes once to install the meter...so it is wise to install the aircon unit after they installed the meter.
If you fill in the paperwork at CDE they usualy come 1-2 weeks after that to install the meter....write on the paper that before they come they have to PHONE you 1-2 days before....so you have time enough to hide the unit.
Also it is wise to put a firm LOCK on the outside unit as somebody might want to steel it....!
In case of being discovered (only if your spanish is good enough) you can try to bride the electricity guy from NOT reporting you that you have an aircon unit....LOL. 500-1000 pesos might do the trick. Just say something like "OO it was from the former owner and he comes to pick it up tomorrow"...or something like that.
If you allready rent an appartment/house that has the electricity on some-ones other name forget this whole story. The company ONLY comes to check when they are installing the meter.
Anyway for gringo's it's NOT possible to put the bill on your name (as i found out). Pretty weird huh.....!
Johan
I will be in SD next week. I have been to the Colonial District in the daytime by car service looking around. It seemed quiet. Are there any Chicas to be had in the daytime? What happens there at night? Is it comfortable to walk around? Do those street hustlers near pastuer hang in the Colonial zone also waiting for Americanos?
I would like to meet a Chica walking in the daytime but not in the hooker section of town? Any suggestions on the questions above?
Thanks in advance.
J
4give me for making moe of this than I needed to.I thought it was some new brand or something. The electricity situation is crazy in DR. I have been in riots twice when the government cut the electricity off in SD. Tires a blaze and trash for days!
Hi Jackson,
Could you please make a new forum thread inside the DR section about living in the DR???
I feel and know many of us want to live here and want to discuss certain matters about that on this noble board.
TIA
Johan
Hi Jackson,
Could you please make a new forum thread inside the DR section about living in the DR???
I feel and know many of us want to live here and want to discuss certain matters about that on this noble board.Have you been on the DR1 message boards? DR1 has tons of information in reference to living in the Dominican Republic.
-Helpmann :)
Tom Gueguen
03-10-07, 01:04
Have you been on the DR1 message boards? DR1 has tons of information in reference to living in the Dominican Republic.
-Helpmann :)What about a report of your last trip?
Looking forward your new adventures.
What about a report of your last trip?
Looking forward your new adventures.Trip report? There isn't much to say besides stating the obvious (drinking, dancing, and Dominicanas.)
My first night in town (Friday). I met up with an ISG member and his novia for drinks at El Conde. Saturday, I spent the night drinking and dancing with friends at a party in Santo Domingo. Sunday, I spent the day at the beach, drinking and talking with my spinner and an ex-pat friend and his wife at Playa Vista. Later that evening, my spinner and I drove to the capital to see the movie "Sanky Panky." By Monday night, I was on a flight back home.
With the exception of Saturday night, everything was a bit routine. Unfortunately, no pool parties or orgies on this trip. Nevertheless, it was a very good trip and I was busy throughout the weekend. I'm always on the lookout for a solid Wingman (a drinking buddy, who can party 24/7 and help me tag-team some of these girls); however, I'm still meeting way too many novia/wife-seekers.
I've vacationed in DR every month since July '06; however, I may slow it down a bit. I still don't have an airline ticket for this month. Nevertheless, things may change.
Cheers!
Helpmann :)
Hey man,
I am going in April if you are interested.
Joe Hermer
03-19-07, 03:40
Connect to DR1Try also : http://www.sosuanews.com/index.php
Hi Jackson,
Could you please make a new forum thread inside the DR section about living in the DR???
I feel and know many of us want to live here and want to discuss certain matters about that on this noble board.
TIA
Johan
Johan,
Helpmann is correct there is tons of great stuff available on the DR1 website related to living issues, legal issues, residency isues, real estate matters etc.
I've also been respectfully asking Jackson to add a section on the DR board called "Living in the DR" going all the way back to 2003. I thought it would be helpful.
cheers.........
I have always traveled to the DR using only cash and an ATM card as back up. I was wondering if bringing travelers checks is practical or not. Can they be exchanged everywhere or are they too much of a hassle?
What do you guys think?
I have always traveled to the DR using only cash and an ATM card as back up. I was wondering if bringing travelers checks is practical or not. Can they be exchanged everywhere or are they too much of a hassle?
What do you guys think?
Brother P,
My initial feeling is that if you plan on cashing a traveler's check at a hotel, or other larger establishment, should be fine. I would be a little dubious about cashing at a restaurant, bar, smaller supermarket, etc.
I have always traveled to the DR using only cash and an ATM card as back up. I was wondering if bringing travelers checks is practical or not. Can they be exchanged everywhere or are they too much of a hassle?
What do you guys think?
Its a hassle. What Yanqui said is absolutely true - "cashing them at a hotel or large establishment should be fine".....he's right, it should be no problem, but it is.
Remember this is not the real world....this is the DR! :D
In the country where you get an automatic %26 tax & itbis on every hotel and restaurant bill (still drives me crazy) - you'll find that places give you all sorts of grief with Travelers Checks. Many hotels in the north coast won't accept them, the Intercontinental in SDQ won't accept them or change them.
The casas de cambio (exchange houses) will take them but you'll need to present your passport, they make a copy of it each time. Its a lot of effort, and continually presenting your passport and making the US government aware everytime you change money in a foreign country, may not be something you're entirely comfortable with.
The ONLY country that I've found that has more issues with Travelers Checks is Nicaragua - only accepted at certain banks, certain times of day, long lines......blah blah blah.
I have always traveled to the DR using only cash and an ATM card as back up. I was wondering if bringing travelers checks is practical or not. Can they be exchanged everywhere or are they too much of a hassle?
What do you guys think?
I personally never understood the appeal of travelers checks.
Traveling to San Juan, PR in the early 90s with a really nervous friend of mine, I was frustrated each time going out to eat having to sit and wait for the the same process to play out-- "do you guys accept travelers checks?" "Of course Senor." Then I would give cash to my friend for my share of the bill and he would pay the waiter in travelers checks. The waiter would then look at them, have him sign, leave, show them to the manager who looked at them with a confused face, then come back and say we have to pay a 1%-5% service fee for using them depending on the place and the mood of the manager. Then have a a gazillion other waiters look on in curiosity. We would finally leave feeling like we asked to pay our check in paperclips. I can only imagine what it would be like in the DR.
Not worth it for me. Kills the flow of things. I like to leave cash on the table, give a nod to the messero/a and jet.
What I strongly reccomend to all travelers is opening another checking/savings accounts so you do not rely on only one ATM card. The ATM card for my second checking accout came in real handy on a recent trip to California becasue my bank seemed to treat an online transfer I made to a brokerage account right before leaving as a cash withdrawal and deducted it from my daily withdrawal limit.
If I didn't have the extra ATM card tied to another account it would have been a real pain to get my hands on some cash on a Sat night. If you don't want to open another account, at least make sure you have a PIN on a credit card so you can take a cash advance at the ATM if you're in a bind.
MC
Greetings,
Travelers' checks were very useful in the days before ATMs existed, that is prior to about 1980, because the only alternative was to carry cash.
Today I would recommend taking
1) Some cash in large ($100) bills, changing half of it immediately and keeping the local currency in a different wallet or pocket. This money can be used to pay taxis and for advance payment of a hotel room. The rest should be kept as an emergency reserve fund in case ATMs are not working.
2) An ATM or debit card that can be used to make local cash withdrawals as needed.
3) A credit card which you should not use unless you lose your debit card and your cash, but as an extra backup.
Needless to say, the cash, ATM card and credit card should not all be carried together.
Next week, I will be returning to the Dominican Republic for a bit of drinking, dancing, and Dominicanas. Although, I'm always on the lookout for a solid Wingman (a drinking buddy, who can party 24/7 and help me tag-team some of these girls); my chica/friend network will be very limited. Why? Because I'll be in Sosua (only 2-days in Boca Chica)!! I haven't made a trip out to the North Coast in over a year.
Nevertheless, I have been receiving a steady stream of emails regarding my travel plans (and my pics ;)), so I just wanted to let you "single travelers" know.
Cheers!
Helpmann :)
Thanks for the info on travelers checks. I do have one question that I would like to present to the board.
On one trip to the DR I went to fill up my rental car before returning it and found a Shell station that had a Visa logo on their sign. When I went to pay with my Visa card they said they would not honor it because it "was from an American Bank" and they accepted only DR issued Visas. I argued but I was stuck. I had only USD and they took it at a favorable exchange rate to them. I thought this might be another DR ripoff, but maybe not.
Anybody else run into something like this?
PS: Helpmann, have a great time. I wish I was down there then and tip a few with you.
Thanks for the info on travelers checks. I do have one question that I would like to present to the board.
On one trip to the DR I went to fill up my rental car before returning it and found a Shell station that had a Visa logo on their sign. When I went to pay with my Visa card they said they would not honor it because it "was from an American Bank" and they accepted only DR issued Visas. I argued but I was stuck. I had only USD and they took it at a favorable exchange rate to them. I thought this might be another DR ripoff, but maybe not.
Anybody else run into something like this?
PS: Helpmann, have a great time. I wish I was down there then and tip a few with you.
BE SURE IT WAS A RIPOFF!!!!!!!!!! HOW'S YOUR SPANISH??? Dominicans tend to be less ripp offs if you speak decent spanish.
Visa is world wide ......and it doesn't make any differnce from what country your card or banc is!!!!!!!!!!!!
yes....sometimes the DR can be a pain in the *ss.
johan
BE SURE IT WAS A RIPOFF!!!!!!!!!! HOW'S YOUR SPANISH??? Dominicans tend to be less ripp offs if you speak decent spanish.
Visa is world wide ......and it doesn't make any differnce from what country your card or banc is!!!!!!!!!!!!
yes....sometimes the DR can be a pain in the *ss.
johan
That's kinda what I thought. It's not like it was for a huge amount of money, but it is a pain in the *ss and the principal of the whole thing.
My Spanish is improving and this was on one of my early trips. I am getting better at communicating and recognizing rip offs quicker. But alas, I am still a gringo.
Sunset Strip
03-25-07, 19:32
Ponderosa,
Not that I have ever been to the DR (but I will soon)... But I do travel quite a bit to Brazil and Mexico and think you might not have been scammed.
Perhaps, the logo you saw meant Visa debit. Many retail places in Latin America have the Visa logo but that does not mean they take credit cards. Remember, the gas station told you they only take Dominican bank cards. What I think they meant was they only take the Visa debit cards sold in, or backed by, Dominican banks.
Then again, it could have been a rip off attempt.
TJ
Marc Anthony
03-26-07, 03:22
I've also read reports and heard discussion saying that Dominican issued VISA cards are not accepted on the web by most companies and are not much good internationally. You'd think VISA would want to prevent it's brand from degrading into meaninglessness.
Fellas,
I am looking to rent a nice 3/4 Bedroom vill in Sosua/Cabarete that is chica friendly. I'm traveling with 2 other guys from 5/16-5/27.
There is alot of info on the internet and I am using a broker to find me a place as well. We'll have a car and I don't drink anymore, so as long as we are in close proximaty to the town, we'll be OK.
Any advice on nice places ranging from $200-300 per night?
Any places I should absolutely avoid?
Thanks in advance.
Marc Anthony
03-27-07, 14:39
Casa Linda is off the main highway not too far past sosua. http://www.casalindaonline.com/
Their top model is $130, $150 with tax for 3 BR/2Bth. Some have mature plantings that make the pool area secluded enough for naked chicas to roam free.
With the other 5000 pesos a day you just about afford to include the price of a chica for each bedroom in $300 per day.
Thanks Marc. I did look at Casa Linda, but larger villas were unavailable. Found a 3 BR/3 BA in Sol de Plata, looks nice. Booked it for 5/16-5/27.
Different, fun, and a doble finish!
Leftcoaster
03-31-07, 19:34
Thanks guys for the info about travelers checks. Thank you Ponderosa for presenting the question. I will be making my first visit to the DR and to BBs in a few weeks. I have another question. Being a business owner I need to call my office once daily. I think it will be expensive to use my cell phone. So what is the best way to do this? Should I buy a phone card before I leave or after I arrive in POP? Should I use pay phones or can I use the phone at BBs?
LC.
Gents:
American Airlines are running some "specials" from Miami and Fort Lauderdale to a lot of the Caribbean starting from April 9th. (eg $158 MIA/SDQ return).
Not that American Airlines are special, though!
Suerte!
Polvo
AA cheapies from many gateways(MSP was only $550 with tax through JFK).
Blue Vette
04-03-07, 23:54
Hi Leftcoaster,
I was at BBs a week ago and while there I bought a Verizon "Comunicard" phone card at the bar for 100 pesos. I forget how much time that grants me, but I was able to make at least two calls home with it. On the back of the card at the top you scratch off to reveal the code you will have to punch in. The instructions on the card are very small and in Spanish, but if you pick up the phone and dail 611 before punching in the phone card code you will hear instructions in English.
I hope this helps. Have fun!
For 30 min., it costs 600 pesos(almost $18 !)
..... I have another question. Being a business owner I need to call my office once daily. I think it will be expensive to use my cell phone. So what is the best way to do this? Should I buy a phone card before I leave or after I arrive in POP? Should I use pay phones or can I use the phone at BBs?...LC.
Leftcoaster:
A lot of the phone data is contained in this post:
547721
If you look 10 posts up and down from that point you will also see a lot of background info about calls from the DR.
Suerte!
Polvo
We were sitting in a very nice, established, Juan Dolio restaurant/bar, Guila's, watching the NCAA Finals. A local band had started playing about 10pm. Suddenly, 15 Policia surrounded the place. All with automatic rifles and sawed-off shotguns, flack jackets, and helmets. Everone ''froze''. They walked around the place in a menacing way. Finally, they seized the muscicians sound equipment, not the instruments. Half hour later, they drove away with the sound equipment. These fuckers risk everone's lives apparently over a loudness complaint!
We were sitting in a very nice, established, Juan Dolio restaurant/bar, Guila's, watching the NCAA Finals. A local band had started playing about 10pm. Suddenly, 15 Policia surrounded the place. All with automatic rifles and sawed-off shotguns, flack jackets, and helmets. Everone ''froze''. They walked around the place in a menacing way. Finally, they seized the muscicians sound equipment, not the instruments. Half hour later, they drove away with the sound equipment. These fuckers risk everone's lives apparently over a loudness complaint!
If you think the DR is scary, you should drive around the streets of Caracas at about 2am. Nobody around except - "coked-up rage club kids" and "secuestradores". You're happy to see a cop with an automatic weapon! ;)
Are you sure that it was all over a noise complaint? That seems alittle over the top even for SDQ. The policía nacional are famous for executing arrest warrants and such at off hours and in off-beat locations. Maybe the band members had outstanding "wants" for some sort of drug charges (or considering the arsenal of weapons the cops brought with them) - gun charges?
That seems more likely than anyone complaining about noise! I remember staying at the Hilton one night in SDQ and all-night long two guys parked a pick-up truck right on the Malecon (Ave George Washington) right in front of the hotel with huge 6 ft high amplifiers "perched" in the flat bed. For 3 straight hours (between 12-3am) these two guys blasted a collection of Bachata, Merengue, Joey Veras, Elvis Martinez, Sergio Vargas and Antonio Santos at about 130 decibels!:eek:
Half the guests of the Hilton were standing in the lobby screaming about the noise, but the management said that the truck was on public property, the policía nacional had been contacted and that they [the police] felt the music was "within acceptable levels" :confused:
(Acceptable for a 757 taking off, maybe)
Noise complaints are rare, might have been more to the story than you knew.
cheers............
I havent seen a sunny forecast for the DR since last winter. What is going on with the weather ?
I am planning a trip to Sosua in Late many myself. I plan to stay there 1 week then take a bus to Santo Domingo. I am looking for a cheap place with air in Sosua. I am planning a 5 week tour and need to cut expensives as possible. Also what other cites would you suggest? I have made one trip to SD just last month, so I feel good about SD now but I am always horny and looking for more.
Alew
PS any thoughts about the bus trip from Sosua to SD?
Next week, I will be returning to the Dominican Republic for a bit of drinking, dancing, and Dominicanas. Although, I'm always on the lookout for a solid Wingman (a drinking buddy, who can party 24/7 and help me tag-team some of these girls); my chica/friend network will be very limited. Why? Because I'll be in Sosua (only 2-days in Boca Chica)!! I haven't made a trip out to the North Coast in over a year.
Nevertheless, I have been receiving a steady stream of emails regarding my travel plans (and my pics ;)), so I just wanted to let you "single travelers" know.
Cheers!
Helpmann :)
I am planning a trip to Sosua in Late many myself. I plan to stay there 1 week then take a bus to Santo Domingo. I am looking for a cheap place with air in Sosua. I am planning a 5 week tour and need to cut expensives as possible. Also what other cites would you suggest? I have made one trip to SD just last month, so I feel good about SD now but I am always horny and looking for more.
Alew
PS any thoughts about the bus trip from Sosua to SD?Hi Alew,
If you're planning to spend that much time (4+ weeks) in the DR and you want to save some cash, you should look to live like a local. It sounds like you enjoy Santo Domingo, so find an apartment in a neighborhood you like (Ciudad Universitaria, Gascue, Zona Colonial) and make weekend trips (Fri-Mon) to the other parts of the island (Sosua, Las Terrenas, Santiago, Boca Chica, Barahona, Punta Cana.) Santo Domingo is a good home base and there is always something to do. On the weekends, when things slow down in the capital, take a Caribe Tour bus (RD$250->Sosua) or gua-gua to another city. You may want to even consider spending a weekend in Havana, Cuba (Cubana flys Th. & Sun for approx US$450.)
When you're not traveling on the weekends, you should look to establish yourself as more than just a sex crazed foreigner. Spend some time meeting your neighbors and flirting with the good girls of Santo Domingo (grocery checkout girls, waitresses, and university students), some of these girls may be the ones you're traveling with on the weekends. Nevertheless, I urge you to take weekday Spanish classes in the capital (if possible, on UASD's campus.) It's another way for you to meet more people and learn the language.
Most people don't have the opportunity to spend this much time in another country, so please make the most of it.
Cheers!
Helpmann :)
www.caribetours.com.do
www.uasd.edu.do
w w w . d r 1 . c o m
I havent seen a sunny forecast for the DR since last winter. What is going on with the weather ?Weather forecasts only tell you that it's going to rain. It rains every other day in the DR; what you need to know is how much rain and for how long. Normally, showers last less than 30 minutes; however, that still depends on where in the DR you are (North Coast or South Coast) and the time of year. Historical averages are the best way to determine whether your trip will be all washed up.
-Helpmann :)
Puerto Plata (http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/wxclimatology/monthly/graph/DRXX0005?from=36hr_bottomnav_business)
Santo Domingo (http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/wxclimatology/monthly/graph/DRXX0009?from=36hr_bottomnav_business)
Clodbuster
04-14-07, 16:41
Anybody know anything about the bar/stripclub scene in Punta Cana? I am going to the DR in June and will be flying in and out of Punta Cana. Never been to that part of the DR and hoped someone might have a little info to get me off on the right foot.
Thanks,
Clodbuster
DR Monger II
04-15-07, 15:18
You can probably get better looking girls at Classicos for that price for 60 a night.
Clodbuster,
There is action in Punta Cana, Right now I can't remeber the names except Pachi club. If your staying in a hotel there just ask the folks working at the hotel they will point you in the right direction.
CrazySunny,
And more info on that girl from Pizzarelli's? Thx!
Marzo
Basic items up a lot
A story in today's Diario Libre seems to put the government's claim of extremely low inflation to the test. The newspaper reports that a series of items, several of which are part of most Dominicans' daily diet, have increased by as much as 200% in the nearly two and a half years since the PLD took power in 2004. The price of milk has increased by 82%; beans by 102%; garlic by 103% and refined sugar went up by 86%. The lowly plantain from the Cibao has increased by 90% and the most common type of bread has gone up by 200%. Beer and rum prices have also increased, but that is logical considering the Selective Consumer Tax placed on alcoholic beverages during the latest tax correction. However, housewives are paying 110% more for their cooking gas (LPG), and even water has gone up by 52%. The cost of other items such as rice, cooking oil, pasta and meat has remained fairly stable. According to the Central Bank, the rising cost of fuel is the major factor in the DR's inflationary process.
The Central Bank reported that the rate of inflation was 0.79% in March. The Consumer Price Index showed accumulated inflation for the first three months of the year at 2.04%.
Basic items up a lot
A story in today's Diario Libre seems to put the government's claim of extremely low inflation to the test. The newspaper reports that a series of items, several of which are part of most Dominicans' daily diet, have increased by as much as 200% in the nearly two and a half years since the PLD took power in 2004. The price of milk has increased by 82%; beans by 102%; garlic by 103% and refined sugar went up by 86%. The lowly plantain from the Cibao has increased by 90% and the most common type of bread has gone up by 200%. Beer and rum prices have also increased, but that is logical considering the Selective Consumer Tax placed on alcoholic beverages during the latest tax correction. However, housewives are paying 110% more for their cooking gas (LPG), and even water has gone up by 52%. The cost of other items such as rice, cooking oil, pasta and meat has remained fairly stable. According to the Central Bank, the rising cost of fuel is the major factor in the DR's inflationary process.
The Central Bank reported that the rate of inflation was 0.79% in March. The Consumer Price Index showed accumulated inflation for the first three months of the year at 2.04%.
How about that!
And this in a country where an office worker earns a little over US$160 a month!
Pushing for wind, solar and hydro power
Geologist Osiris de Leon considers that the country could establish a system where 25% of the country's energy is produced hydroelectrically, 25% wind produced, 10% solar energy produced and 40% coal produced. The Dominican Academy of Sciences' Natural Science and Environment Commission says that as a 1990 signatory to the Kyoto protocols the country is obliged to reduce its carbon emissions by 5%. De Leon says that renewable energy sources would help the country reach new levels of development because of the resulting decrease in energy costs. The geologist also observed that by using renewable energy the country would only have to import one quarter of its petroleum from Venezuela.
I just received an email from American Airlines notifying me that the new 2007 US passport regulations will require me to hold a valid US passport for my upcoming trip - since their records indicate that I am traveling and then planning on returning to the U.S. afterwards.
The email goes on to say that if I do not currently hold a valid US Passport that I should apply for one at this time and that there is an expediting process available to US citizens that I might want to take advantage of.
Really? Gee thanks for the tip! I'm leaving in 3 days! You think they might want have reminded me...oh, about....6 weeks ago when I booked the ticket!? That must be some expediting process that they're tapped into. (lol) :D
(Thankfully, my passport is valid thru 2009)
Ford,
What a small world it is. I am leaving in 37.5 hours and I just received the same. I filled my old passport, so just received a new one with extra pages good till 2017!!!! lets get the fuck outta here!
I just read that inflation has caused prices for everything in DR to soar yet once again. Has anyone noticed any significant changes in prices for food and or p***y?
Can la Pella still be bought in the D.R.?
I'm coming down in a few weeks for a short trip, and I think I may just need a little help for a short time stay.
Thanks
Latin Personals
04-29-07, 18:35
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I have been to Boca Chica a couple of times. My Spanish is not the greatest. Now I want to try some place new.
So I figure either Sosua or Puerto Plata. I have checked the boards and not sure of which one.
Basically all I want is lots of mongering, do some touristy stuff. Have a few rum and cokes.
Anyone who has been to both and could give me pros and cons of each.
I have been to Boca Chica a couple of times. My Spanish is not the greatest. Now I want to try some place new.
So I figure either Sosua or Puerto Plata. I have checked the boards and not sure of which one.
Basically all I want is lots of mongering, do some touristy stuff. Have a few rum and cokes.
Anyone who has been to both and could give me pros and cons of each.I have spent over 12 months in Sosua over the last 4 years. In my opinion Sosua is your best bet.
Can la Pella still be bought in the D.R.?
I'm coming down in a few weeks for a short trip, and I think I may just need a little help for a short time stay.
ThanksYes it can still be found as well as other choices. Ask any local bartenders, they can usually point you in the right direction. Or go to the pharmacy.
I just read that inflation has caused prices for everything in DR to soar yet once again. Has anyone noticed any significant changes in prices for food and or p***y?I just spent 4 months in Sosua and did not find an increase in chica prices if anything they are less but that could be due to my experience and improved spanish.
Food prices are similar in restaurants, you can still get agood meal for $5, watch out for the places that charge tax and service on top of the quoted price, this adds 26% to the bill. Fortunatly only the higher end places do this.
The only thing which has gone up is drinks, beer is now 80 pesos in Merenque bar and 100 pesos in Classico. You can find cheaper drinks though at places like Rockys and Brittania.
Can Americanos fly POP to Havana? What about immagration on arrival?
Thanks,
Cap
MelowDownEasy
05-09-07, 23:52
Can Americanos fly POP to Havana? What about immagration on arrival?
Thanks,
CapNever did it myself but I believe you can. In Cuba they will not stamp American passports. So no one will no you were there.
Can Americanos fly POP to Havana? What about immagration on arrival?
Thanks,
CapIt's a bit dated, but it may help.
-Helpmann :)
Cuba Faq (http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=349939&postcount=353)
Can Americanos fly POP to Havana? What about immagration on arrival?
Thanks,
Cap
I don't believe there are any POP to HAV flights. Only from SDQ last I checked.
Cuban immigration stamps your tourist visa, not your passport. Only thing to worry about is the double entry stamp.
MC
Can la Pella still be bought in the D.R.?
I'm coming down in a few weeks for a short trip, and I think I may just need a little help for a short time stay.
Thanks
Okay, I give up. What is la Pella? I pretty much assume it's in the viagra family and has nothing to do with hair.
MC
Okay, I give up. What is la Pella? I pretty much assume it's in the viagra family and has nothing to do with hair.
MCIt is equal to cialis here in the states. Tried some last trip and it had a nice effect, not as intense as viagra.
Okay, I give up. What is la Pella? I pretty much assume it's in the viagra family and has nothing to do with hair.
MCLa Pela is the generic form of cialis. It can be found OTC in any pharmacy down in the DR and it's sold in a packet of 4 pills with each pill costing 50 pesos so, 200 pesos per packet. In general, you want to take one pill every 36 hours. Popping multiple pills within a 24 hour timeframe doesn't really multiply the effects of the drug, you'll just end up with a massive headache.
Okay, I give up. What is la Pella? I pretty much assume it's in the viagra family and has nothing to do with hair.
MC
The DR version of generic Cialis.
Smokers Rule
05-21-07, 03:10
I am into chicas who smoke before and during sex. I recently went to BA and found that there was no problem as most of the BA chicas smoke. Do many chicas in the DR smoke?
Yanqui69 ,
When i was in Dr. i stoped in a drugstore with this other guy from Canada . He was used using Tedafil 20mg . At the DS thay only had cialis . Im not sure how many he used but he got a few boxes .
Now back home he has this realy back back ache through his Colon Spine .
I was on the phone with him just yesteday and he wasent feeling to good .
We all know Cialis gives back ache . But to what point ?
John Jr
Regulr Travlr
05-21-07, 13:51
I am into chicas who smoke before and during sex. I recently went to BA and found that there was no problem as most of the BA chicas smoke. Do many chicas in the DR smoke?
All the chicas Fantasy is with are smoking. I would touch base with him,
Tom Gueguen
05-21-07, 15:54
I am into chicas who smoke before and during sex. I recently went to BA and found that there was no problem as most of the BA chicas smoke. Do many chicas in the DR smoke?
The most hardcore ones usually smoke, crack*****s also.....
Yes, it can give you a severe backache especially if you have taken a lot of it. It is one of the side effects but of course it doesn't happen to everyone. I have experienced it a few times and only got one if I took it more then once in a 36hr period. Actually, it only happened twice and the second time confirmed the side effect of the first time since I wasn't sure what the pain was from (too much strokin' I thought...lol!) It should go away in a few days and an OTC pain killer worked for me. Drinking plenty of water, which is a good thing anyway, may help too. Just my opinion but hope it was helpful.
DP
Sorry JJ,
I just read your post again and see that you already knew Cialis will give you a backache. Mine lasted about 3-4 days both times as opposed to a couple of hours, if at all, in the morning a day after taking a "normal" dose. It was pretty severe too because I rarely take pain killers and I couldn't sleep without them.
BoricuaOnline
05-22-07, 01:08
I used Cialis that I bought from a drugstore in Santo Domingo an it worked well on me, no side effects at all. The back ache you are describing must go up to 48 hours after taking a pill, if it persist you have to consult your doctor.
Yanqui69 ,
When i was in Dr. i stoped in a drugstore with this other guy from Canada . He was used using Tedafil 20mg . At the DS thay only had cialis . Im not sure how many he used but he got a few boxes .
Now back home he has this realy back back ache through his Colon Spine .
I was on the phone with him just yesteday and he wasent feeling to good .
We all know Cialis gives back ache . But to what point ?
John Jr
Yes, it can give you a severe backache especially if you have taken a lot of it. It is one of the side effects but of course it doesn't happen to everyone. I have experienced it a few times and only got one if I took it more then once in a 36hr period. Actually, it only happened twice and the second time confirmed the side effect of the first time since I wasn't sure what the pain was from (too much strokin' I thought...lol!) It should go away in a few days and an OTC pain killer worked for me. Drinking plenty of water, which is a good thing anyway, may help too. Just my opinion but hope it was helpful.
DPYes, I usually use LaPela, which is a generic form of Cialis (tadalafil) 20 mgs. that you can buy for 50 pesos in the DR. I find that one tablet is effective for at least 7 days, which is pretty cost effective.
I have had backache sometimes, and not other times. What I find really helpful for the backache is to lie on the back on a hard floor (on a towel), draw the knees up to the chest, and rock back and forth and side to side for several minutes. This seems to stretch the back muscles and relieve the pain, which seems to be worst when waking in the morning. It seems to work better than massage, though having a whole body massage does not hurt.
This has to be in a cabana somewhere in DR
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I apologize for posting a link. Here is the pic found on a website.
This has to be in a cabana somewhere in DR
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Smokers Rule
06-07-07, 05:00
I know I asked this before, but I didn't get an answer so maybe I can try again. In your experience, do many chicas smoke in the DR? I like chicas who smoke cigars and am hoping to land a few when I'm there. It was no problem in Buenos Aires, but my impression is that chicas in BA smoke more than chicas in the DR. Can anybody give me their thoughts on this?
Salsero Loco
06-07-07, 20:13
I know this is a crazy thing to be asking about here, but anyone know how good the dentists are in the DR? I want to have a few cosmetic things done and have saved a lot of money in the past going to dentists in Colombia.
I want to mix some dental work into the next mongering trip but am kinda burnt out on Colombia at the moment...
SL
I know this is a crazy thing to be asking about here, but anyone know how good the dentists are in the DR? I want to have a few cosmetic things done and have saved a lot of money in the past going to dentists in Colombia.
I want to mix some dental work into the next mongering trip but am kinda burnt out on Colombia at the moment...
SL
Would not recommend. I have a good friend who is a dentist (here in the States) and in his opinion he told me that for cosmetic dental work you should either go to Colombia or Mexico.
I know I asked this before, but I didn't get an answer so maybe I can try again. In your experience, do many chicas smoke in the DR? I like chicas who smoke cigars and am hoping to land a few when I'm there. It was no problem in Buenos Aires, but my impression is that chicas in BA smoke more than chicas in the DR. Can anybody give me their thoughts on this?
I had the same fetish a a nonsmoking teen. LOL. There are more than enough girls who smoke in DR. Cigarettes, small cigars, cocaine, crack. Ironicall enough, if you opt to smoke God's green herb, they will look at you as if youve gone mad! Many of the hardcore girls constantly smoke.
Smokers Rule
06-08-07, 04:00
Thanks. I'll let you all know how it goes. I think money may cause chicas to do just about anything.
Member #2128
06-08-07, 08:40
For the senior members here, whatever happened to JIMMY DR? Back in the day he was the #1 expert on the board---telling his stories of daily life in Sosua and always selling the now defunct "Palace" as the premier place to stay, before it folded and was eclipsed by "The Europa" as THE monger destination. At one point, he even started some kind of P4 party service, or "DR tour", or something like that.
Is he still around? Living in the DR somewhere with his chica?
It's sad when the life of the party suddenly disappears from the scene...
#2128
For the senior members here, whatever happened to JIMMY DR? Back in the day he was the #1 expert on the board---telling his stories of daily life in Sosua and always selling the now defunct "Palace" as the premier place to stay, before it folded and was eclipsed by "The Europa" as THE monger destination. At one point, he even started some kind of P4 party service, or "DR tour", or something like that.
Is he still around? Living in the DR somewhere with his chica?Moved to DR? I don't think so. Jimmy is still living at home with his parents in Queens. Jackson booted him from this site along time ago.
-Helpmann :)
Crazy Jim Wood
06-09-07, 00:00
Moved to DR? I don't think so. Jimmy is still living at home with his parents in Queens. Jackson booted him from this site along time ago.
-Helpmann :)
Why'd he get booted? He used to be one of the most prolofic posters, especially for photos.
Jimbo
Why'd he get booted? He used to be one of the most prolofic posters, especially for photos.
JimboHe broke one of the rules, he promoted his own "travel guide" site on ISG.
-Helpmann :)
Crazy Jim Wood
06-09-07, 20:39
An interesting analysis of the economics of prostitution in the DR written in 1996. About 30 pages long. After cutting out the crap, this is what was left.
***All prices are from 1994***
Casa familials: The owner indirectly employs 10 to 20 prostitutes who live in the establishment. There is a bar in the front of the building where clients take their pick of these prostitutes. The client then pays the owner a casa fee (100 to 150 pesos) for use of the room … the women usually managed to negotiate between 300 and 400 pesos for themselves … it was rare for a woman to see more than one client per night. The second casa familial was cheaper with emphasis on volume. The women usually serviced two to three clients per night. The casa fee was lower, only 50 pesos, and the women charged between 200 and 300 pesos for short time. Short time means between five minutes and half an hour and clients are told to leave if they are too drunk or too slow. By working in a casa familial they can potentially earn between 300 and 900 pesos a night (they do not always realise this potential, but the promise is there).
Bar-brothels: Operates as a 'take away' system rather than providing rooms … owners make money through the sale of expensive drinks and by charging clients a bar fine. Bar-brothels in the Dominican Republic serve a wide range of customers. A beer costs more than twice what a beer costs in an ordinary tourist outlet and it is expected that clients will buy girls numerous drinks at 70 to 100 pesos a time while they 'chat' to them (a small percentage of this sum goes to the girl). The bar fines range from 300 to 500 pesos and prostitutes working from these bars aim to charge 1,000 pesos or more for short time. In other words, using such establishments, a client may find himself paying well over 2,000 pesos for sex.
Independents: independent prostitutes charge anything from 150 pesos to 1,000 pesos for short time but the 'going rate' is between 300 and 500 pesos (the client usually also pays 150 pesos for the rent of a room). However, prostitutes in the tourist areas consider themselves to be doing well if they manage to pick up three clients a week and, on average, the women and girls claimed to earn around 1,000 pesos a week from … one woman tries to negotiate 500 pesos for short time with a client and 1,000 pesos for a whole night but is often forced to drop her prices.
(original: ecpat_sex_tourism_dom_rebublic.pdf)
Crazy Jim Wood
06-24-07, 02:51
I just read a very interesting book entitled "The Search for the Perfect Wh0re". It is available on Amazon. com (ISBN 0-595-36348-2, $20.95).
The book was published in 2006, which of course means that, at best, the information in the book is from 2004-5.
It is a very amusing story all about how to find a girlfriend experience with minimal Spanish ability in Sosua, especially picking up "non-pros" on the street. There is also a lot of good information on everyday life of an American tourist who does not know much Spanish in Sosua and a few other places. The protagonist even buys a house, and several other characters open bars.
There is quite a bit of philosophical musings which can be conveniently skipped, and everyone winds up getting married in the end, but other than that it is a fun book to read for anyone planning a trip.
CJW
If you have any info on MRSA in the DR please contact me .
John JR
I was looking through my notes and saw that prepaid cell phones are available from Orange for about US$ 30.
I am not sure where I got this info, but this sounds like just about what I want.
Does anyone have experience with prepaid phones in the DR? In Sosua if it makes a difference?
Thanks,
Jimbo
Yes, you need to take an unlocked GSM phone with you, then you can buy the SIM card and time for not very much money, though the calls are expensive compared to the US on a cents-per-minute basis. You can also call the US for the SAME price per minute.
When you take your phone to the Orange shop you must take your passport for ID purposes.
You can rent a phone at the hotel Europa for less money. Talk to Diego if you are staying there.
Crazy Jim Wood
06-25-07, 18:48
Yes, you need to take an unlocked GSM phone with you, then you can buy the SIM card and time for not very much money, though the calls are expensive compared to the US on a cents-per-minute basis. You can also call the US for the SAME price per minute.
When you take your phone to the Orange shop you must take your passport for ID purposes.
You can rent a phone at the hotel Europa for less money. Talk to Diego if you are staying there.
Thanks. I will talk to Diego.
Jimbo
Crazy Jim Wood
06-25-07, 21:00
If I arrive in SDQ around 6-7 pm will I still be able to rent a car or catch a bus to Sosua?
Or, will hotels like Europa, New Garden, etc provide an airport pick-up?
Yes, I am emailng the hotels, but just thought I would ask here to see if anyone else experience on the receiving end of the pick up.
CJW
Pretty sure the last Caribe Tours bus from Santo Domingo to Sosua leaves before 8pm (and it's a 4-hour trip). By the time you go through customs, immigration, and take a cab to SD's El Centro, you won't make the 8pm departure. And given the distance and time involved, no Sosua hotel will do an SDQ pick-up.
About renting a car - there's NO WAY I'd rent a car and make the drive at night. If you really want to rent a car and make the 4-hour drive, consider renting the car upon arrival and driving it to Boca Chica (actually closer to SDQ than SD's center). After a night in BC, take a DAYTIME drive up to Sosua in the rental.
Didn't read any of your earlier posts to see if this is your first trip to DR. If so, I'd think twice about driving at all. I was on my 4th trip before I rented, and that was from STI to Sosua (about half the distance you're considering).
If I were you, I'd catch a cab (upon arrival) into Santo Domingo's center (where Caribe Tours station is), kill a night there, the grab a morning bus to Sosua.
If I arrive in SDQ around 6-7 pm will I still be able to rent a car or catch a bus to Sosua?
Or, will hotels like Europa, New Garden, etc provide an airport pick-up?
Yes, I am emailng the hotels, but just thought I would ask here to see if anyone else experience on the receiving end of the pick up.
CJW
Pretty sure the last Caribe Tours bus from Santo Domingo to Sosua leaves before 8pm (and it's a 4-hour trip). By the time you go through customs, immigration, and take a cab to SD's El Centro, you won't make the 8pm departure. And given the distance and time involved, no Sosua hotel will do an SDQ pick-up.
About renting a car - there's NO WAY I'd rent a car and make the drive at night. If you really want to rent a car and make the 4-hour drive, consider renting the car upon arrival and driving it to Boca Chica (actually closer to SDQ than SD's center). After a night in BC, take a DAYTIME drive up to Sosua in the rental.
Didn't read any of your earlier posts to see if this is your first trip to DR. If so, I'd think twice about driving at all. I was on my 4th trip before I rented, and that was from STI to Sosua (about half the distance you're considering).
If I were you, I'd catch a cab (upon arrival) into Santo Domingo's center (where Caribe Tours station is), kill a night there, the grab a morning bus to Sosua.
Bus schedule is here:
http://www.caribetours.com.do/santo%20domingo.htm
So the last bus leaves SD at 7. You can stay at the girl friendly Mercure hotel in SD quite cheaply if you book on Internet and prepay with credit card, then go on the next day.
Why fly into SD late at night if Sosua is your destination? This is not good travel planning. Maybe you are coming from West Coast and this is the only option?
Crazy Jim Wood
06-26-07, 02:05
Why fly into SD late at night if Sosua is your destination? This is not good travel planning. Maybe you are coming from West Coast and this is the only option?
The flight schedule arriving at 6:45 pm and going back home leaves at 10 am was only $340.
I can see now there are going to be logistical problems on both the first and the last day, no doubt necessitating stays on Boca Chica or Santo Domingo on those days.
I guess you live and learn.
But I did save $150 at least over flights arriving earlier and departing later!
It seems that Auto Europe has the best deals on cars ($25/day for an economy car). Is this company ok?
Jimbo
Crazy Jim Wood
06-26-07, 02:12
[Why fly into SD late at night if Sosua is your destination? This is not good travel planning. Maybe you are coming from West Coast and this is the only option?
There really is nothing that says I absolutely have to stay in Sosua, but it did seem like the best place to start (and this is my first trip to DR).
Jimbo
There really is nothing that says I absolutely have to stay in Sosua, but it did seem like the best place to start (and this is my first trip to DR).
Jimbo
Yes, but Sosua is practically walking distance from Puerto Plata airport, but several hours by road from SDQ, so what you save on the air fare, you spend on the ground.
I don't know where you are flying from, but if saving on the air fare is high priority, you would still do better to fly into SDQ and fly out of POP, because that way you would pay the SDQ price. If saving on the air fare is high priority, though, you might want to give the casino a miss as the games are arranged so that the odds favor the house.
However you will probably have a perfectly enjoyable night in SDQ. Any taxi driver will take you to where girls are without you even asking. And the trip north to Sosua is interesting. I would really advise you not to rent a car, especially at Santo Domingo, until you are more familiar with the DR, but that is your decision. Caribe Tours bus only costs about $7 and you can relax and enjoy the scenery. If you still want to rent a car at Sosua, then do so.
Just write about your experiences here if you survive. You may wish to post some obituary notes now just in case.
Depending on the duration of your trip (and your personal preferences), you MAY just want to go to Boca Chica. If your trip is under a week, and you main goal is to just unwind, enjoy the beach, and have cheap sex - you may find BC just fine (inus the 2-way, coast to coast hassle)
There really is nothing that says I absolutely have to stay in Sosua, but it did seem like the best place to start (and this is my first trip to DR).
Jimbo
Crazy Jim Wood
06-26-07, 13:52
Thanks for the info.
Depending on the duration of your trip (and your personal preferences), you MAY just want to go to Boca Chica. If your trip is under a week, and you main goal is to just unwind, enjoy the beach, and have cheap sex - you may find BC just fine (inus the 2-way, coast to coast hassle)
Well, those are my goals, and my trip is just over a week, but reading the BC forum here it seems like many people are not as happy there as they are at Sosua. I guess you think BC would be just as good?
...if saving on the air fare is high priority, you would still do better to fly into SDQ and fly out of POP, because that way you would pay the SDQ price. If saving on the air fare is high priority, though, you might want to give the casino a miss as the games are arranged so that the odds favor the house...
I already purchased tickets, but I probably would have been better off going through POP. I did check out prices going through POP and it would hace cost me $560.
I'm looking at the expenses taking a taxi from SDQ to Zona Colonial is $50 (US$ I assume?) and it seems like Santo Domingo is just over all more expensive than Sosua, so it looks like I will break even dollar wise ($200 I saved on airfare should cover additional expense of being in Santo Domingo) and being able to see another part of the DR is I guess worth a little hassle.
I don't see myself dropping much money at the tables, I just want to check out the scene, since one always hears about the casino there on the forum.
Jimbo
BC is more of a tourist destination for dominicans. Sosua is geared more for tourists from outside DR. There are definately many more options in POP/Sosua area.
[QUOTE=Crazy Jim Wood]Thanks for the info.
Well, those are my goals, and my trip is just over a week, but reading the BC forum here it seems like many people are not as happy there as they are at Sosua. I guess you think BC would be just as good?
Thanks for the info.
Well, those are my goals, and my trip is just over a week, but reading the BC forum here it seems like many people are not as happy there as they are at Sosua. I guess you think BC would be just as good?
I already purchased tickets, but I probably would have been better off going through POP. I did check out prices going through POP and it would hace cost me $560.
I'm looking at the expenses taking a taxi from SDQ to Zona Colonial is $50 (US$ I assume?) and it seems like Santo Domingo is just over all more expensive than Sosua, so it looks like I will break even dollar wise ($200 I saved on airfare should cover additional expense of being in Santo Domingo) and being able to see another part of the DR is I guess worth a little hassle.
I don't see myself dropping much money at the tables, I just want to check out the scene, since one always hears about the casino there on the forum.
Jimbo
I think you can get a taxi from SDQ to the Colonial zone for about $30 if you haggle a bit.
The air fares do vary quite a bit, depending on lead in time and date. You MAY still be able to change your ticket so as to depart from POP. If this only costs you $50 extra, it will be worth the savings and possibly save spending an extra night in Santo Domingo.
Since this is your first trip you should probably enjoy yourself to the max and not worry too much about expenses. Enjoy now, pay later.
Here is a suggestion that will help you economize:
For your first night
EITHER go to Boca Chica for the night by taxi, then go on to SDQ in the a.m. You can get the local bus to SDQ for a fraction of the taxi cost (or a taxi), then taxi to Caribe Tours terminal where the bus leaves every hour for Sosua.
OR get a taxi to SDQ. Stay at maybe the Mercure Hotel (you can book a room here: http://www.accorhotels.com/gb/reservation/rooms.jshtml ). Get a taxi to Jaragua or other casinos. They are all together on the Malecon. The taxi driver will also take you to brothels etc. on request, or even without request. In the a.m. take taxi to Caribe Tours and take bus to Sosua.
Some people do rent cars, but I really do not recommend this as the driving is erratic in the DR, the roads are poor, the signage is terrible and you may get lost navigating SD, you really don't want to have to deal with Dominican gas stations on your first day in the country, and I am pretty sure you would find the whole experience exhausting.
Try to change your return fare so as to depart from POP. This may not be possible because I don't know where you are coming from.
And while I remember, when you get to Sosua Beach go to #159 and have a drink at the Entre Amigos bar run by Angelina, a charming young woman who is running her own bar for the first time and welcomes all new customers. I'm afraid she is not on the menu, but she is a delightful person who always has time to chat. Here she is in preview.
You must reserve a room at New Garden. Europa is so Bad noone will stay.
So New Garden is full each night. They turn people away every night during my forteen day stay in May.
Hope this Helps!
Cap
Crazy Jim Wood
06-27-07, 05:12
I think you can get a taxi from SDQ to the Colonial zone for about $30 if you haggle a bit...
Thanks... that is US$30 (90 pesos?), right?
Stay at maybe the Mercure Hotel...
Will do. I will check out the casino, La Base, and then on to the casas if no joy.
Some people do rent cars, but I really do not recommend this... I am pretty sure you would find the whole experience exhausting.
Ok, you have me convinced, I will hold off on the rental car until next time.
Jimbo
Thanks... that is US$30 (90 pesos?), right?
Will do. I will check out the casino, La Base, and then on to the casas if no joy.
Ok, you have me convinced, I will hold off on the rental car until next time.
Jimbo
30 US dollars are round about 900 pesos maybe a bit more depending on the daily exchange rate
I think you can get a taxi from SDQ to the Colonial zone for about $30 if you haggle a bit.
The air fares do vary quite a bit, depending on lead in time and date. You MAY still be able to change your ticket so as to depart from POP. If this only costs you $50 extra, it will be worth the savings and possibly save spending an extra night in Santo Domingo.
Since this is your first trip you should probably enjoy yourself to the max and not worry too much about expenses. Enjoy now, pay later.
Here is a suggestion that will help you economize:
For your first night
EITHER go to Boca Chica for the night by taxi, then go on to SDQ in the a.m. You can get the local bus to SDQ for a fraction of the taxi cost (or a taxi), then taxi to Caribe Tours terminal where the bus leaves every hour for Sosua.
OR get a taxi to SDQ. Stay at maybe the Mercure Hotel (you can book a room here: http://www.accorhotels.com/gb/reservation/rooms.jshtml ). Get a taxi to Jaragua or other casinos. They are all together on the Malecon. The taxi driver will also take you to brothels etc. on request, or even without request. In the a.m. take taxi to Caribe Tours and take bus to Sosua.
Some people do rent cars, but I really do not recommend this as the driving is erratic in the DR, the roads are poor, the signage is terrible and you may get lost navigating SD, you really don't want to have to deal with Dominican gas stations on your first day in the country, and I am pretty sure you would find the whole experience exhausting.
Try to change your return fare so as to depart from POP. This may not be possible because I don't know where you are coming from.
And while I remember, when you get to Sosua Beach go to #159 and have a drink at the Entre Amigos bar run by Angelina, a charming young woman who is running her own bar for the first time and welcomes all new customers. I'm afraid she is not on the menu, but she is a delightful person who always has time to chat. Here she is in preview.
In Sosua at the beach you might also check out a bar called siempre sol which is number 143. It`s owner is hermann a guy from the netherlands who has been in Sosua for almost 10 years. He knows almost all the working girls at the beach so he might be a great source of information if you want to pick up a girl from the beach. His bar also offers very good food and drinks.
Marc Anthony
06-28-07, 13:49
A live primetime broadcast tv show from the DR. Link found on DR1.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdZJB-EqVTs
Where is the part where they get naked?
A live primetime broadcast tv show from the DR. Link found on DR1.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdZJB-EqVTs
A live primetime broadcast tv show from the DR. Link found on DR1.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdZJB-EqVTs
The ofrezone reminds me of alot of the Spanish Novellas I've watched thru the years. I sit through the entire program and the whole time I'm wondering - "what is the point of this show, except for the fact that it is a televised vehicle to showcase latinas taking off their clothes and prancing around half-naked??" ;)
Not that I have any problem with this!! Its just funny is all! :D
But there is a real, serious, in-depth crime problem. Not a "poor people stealing wallets and cell phones" problem. An institutionally supported, systematic, police and military compliant, widely spread criminal enterprise. It is operated in Cap Cana, Samana, Cabarate, Playa Grande --anywhere there are concentrations of tourists or foreign residents.
This enterprise runs protection rackets and has high-quality, real time intelligence on who arrives and leaves the island, where they live and what they have.
While it is silly to suggest that "Lionel knows about this" -- who can tell what he knows or doesn't know, or even what powers he may really have to control it -- it is absolutely true that it is being carried on by people with real power and position who are protected and -- this is the bottom line -- do not care a bit about the future of the Dominican Republic, because they plan to have their money in Miami and New York banks, will move their families, over time and therefore couldn't care less what impact these activities may have on the development of a properous and civil society in this country.
I cannot prove this with documentation, nor would I if I could, for obvious reasons. Suffice it to say that there is no piece of paper filled out by an incoming tourist or resident at customs and immigration that doesn't find its way immediately into the hands of those who use it for criminal targeting.
It would be nice if letters like this would "inspire politicians to do something." That is not the way the world works, unfortunately.
Sorry to ask this lame question but does anyone know the cost of an orange sim card ? I know everything else there is to know Im just trying to decide if it would be cheaper to use my cingular service or buy the sim. I dont use the phone much at all and Im having second thoughts about giving my number to chicas. I gave one girl my hotel number in lima and it drove me nuts(worse with a cell) but I might need to call a cab etc.
Thanks
Tom Gueguen
07-04-07, 22:30
350 pesos incluiding 100 pesos of communication, which is about 6 minutes call.
Sorry to ask this lame question but does anyone know the cost of an orange sim card ? I know everything else there is to know Im just trying to decide if it would be cheaper to use my cingular service or buy the sim. I dont use the phone much at all and Im having second thoughts about giving my number to chicas. I gave one girl my hotel number in lima and it drove me nuts(worse with a cell) but I might need to call a cab etc.
Thanks
Jesi James
07-09-07, 03:24
Just a heads up to you Florida boys and maybe others. I rented a car from budget and as I was filling out the papers, the new press seems to be to take the liability insurance with the 'you know, if you hit somebody you will have to hire an attorney' line. My point is on the drivers licenses. Florida will send you a sticker to put on the back of your D/L and you can basically do this for years. The front of the D/L shows expired and the back is really only a sticker which covers the back of the D/L. The cops in the states know it and have no problem with it.
So I am talking to a 18 year old kid in the budget rent a car window in the SDQ airport, he tells me my license is expired and need to show him another one. I don't have another one, this one is good. This goes on for 10 minutes and he is telling me no, he can't/won't rent to me with this license. I ask him to ask one of the other people if they know about the Florida license stickers and he eventually does and the girl confirmed it. He rented the car to me.
One of the only reasons, I was renting from Budget is that they are open 24 hours. If it had been 2:00 in the morning, I would be without a car, as he would not have been able to check with anyone. I am going down to the license bureau and get a new license this week.
Just a note on renting a car in SDQ, it is chaos, without rules, go fast, stop faster. I have not had an accident yet and I have rented a car 3 times, the rules are you need a police report and an accident report for your rental agency/credit card liability. Be prepared to negotiate the price of this report when the police arrive, nothing is free in the DR.
Here is 2 pictures of a car turned upside down in the middle of a residential section in SDQ. Suerte en tu vida.
Im just curious if there might be a hassle being found with a load of condoms and lube entering the DR ? A few condoms might be easier to explain than 20.
Ive wondered about this in other countries as well but have never been questioned.
Jesi James
07-09-07, 04:24
Im just curious if there might be a hassle being found with a load of condoms and lube entering the DR ? A few condoms might be easier to explain than 20.
Ive wondered about this in other countries as well but have never been questioned.
I bring plenty of both, my lube is the astro lube single use and it takes space in my quart bag. No one has ever questioned my 20 condoms I carry on every trip. But, mind you, I have never been pulled over for a full explanation of everything you have interview. I wouldn't have any problem telling anyone and with todays cautions, they can kiss my lilly whites.
suerte
jes
Provided I land on time I will get to puerto plata at 1pm probably unpacked by 3pm. I guess the cambio houses will be closed ? Does anyone not recommend changing $100 at the airport and do I need to be aware of fake bills ?
Thanks
Professor10
07-16-07, 19:02
Was sent from Delta an $89 (one-way)special to DR (Punta Cana, and SDQ) - if some flights are available and in your time frame - it is a bargin to fly there now.
DR Monger II
07-16-07, 20:31
The Delta deal ends on 7/18 and you have to travel between certain dates. They don't fly to Pop anymore.
I would not change money at the airport. If you're renting a car, you don't need it and if taking a taxi, they'll accept US$ The exchange rate at the airport was horrible, less than 30 and the cambios in Sosua were giving 32.5 just a week ago.
Provided I land on time I will get to puerto plata at 1pm probably unpacked by 3pm. I guess the cambio houses will be closed ? Does anyone not recommend changing $100 at the airport and do I need to be aware of fake bills ?
ThanksSecond attempt to reply.
Do not exchange money at airport. Taxis will take US$. Rate at airport a couple weeks back was less than 30p I was getting 32.5 from the cambios in Sosua. Lastly, you'd be crazy not to bring as many condoms and as much lube as you'll need. I always bring extras and regalo them to my favorites when I leave.
Dream Africa
07-18-07, 04:56
Has anybody seen face to face this so well endowed girl? It seems she comes from DR.
If you havent heard of it, just google miosotis and click on images on your upper hand menu.
The question is, can one bump into a girl like this in the DR? Is she too extraordinary? I think a girl like this can cause a heart attack!
Good hunting
Hoof Hunter
07-18-07, 06:57
Delta flies direct daily from Atlanta to Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, and Puerta Plata. Eff. 7/1/2007. Haven't heard nor read any plans to discontinue either of these routes. Same with the JFK-Santo Domingo flights. Maybe just a downgrade of aircraft to a 737 during low season, but POP is still being served daily. In fact, that flight is usually full.
I have heard that the Fort Lauderdale - Santo Domingo flight is indeed in jeopardy.
The Delta deal ends on 7/18 and you have to travel between certain dates. They don't fly to Pop anymore.
Charlie Horse
07-19-07, 01:34
http://www.silive.com/newsflash/metro/index.ssf?/base/news-27/1184796070212990.xml&storylist=simetro
NEW YORK (AP) — A man who arranged sex tours to the Dominican Republic and advertised the escapades on Craigslist and other Web sites was sentenced Wednesday to 10 days of community service and five years probation.
Saeed Ahmed, 29, was convicted in May for promoting prostitution through his company, Jump Off Destinations.
Ahmed ran his tour business out of his Washington Heights apartment, said Edison Alban of the Manhattan district attorney's office. He also had is own Web site, in addition to advertising on Craigslist.
Tour contracts included the number of days, the airfare and accommodations, and specified the number of sex partners the client received, prosecutors said. The prostitutes' fees were buried in the tour package's upfront cash cost.
A handwritten statement Ahmed gave to police said he also provided a chauffeur, tour guide and translator for clients visiting the Spanish-speaking Caribbean island for a cost of about $2,500.
Ahmed ran the tours for about eight months and that they included "female companionship, which included sexual favors," prosecutors said.
The scheme was uncovered when a human rights activist from Equality Now saw his ads in the erotic services section of Craigslist.
http://www.silive.com/newsflash/metro/index.ssf?/base/news-27/1184796070212990.xml&storylist=simetro
NEW YORK (AP) — A man who arranged sex tours to the Dominican Republic and advertised the escapades on Craigslist and other Web sites was sentenced Wednesday to 10 days of community service and five years probation.
Saeed Ahmed, 29, was convicted in May for promoting prostitution through his company, Jump Off Destinations.
Ahmed ran his tour business out of his Washington Heights apartment, said Edison Alban of the Manhattan district attorney's office. He also had is own Web site, in addition to advertising on Craigslist.
Tour contracts included the number of days, the airfare and accommodations, and specified the number of sex partners the client received, prosecutors said. The prostitutes' fees were buried in the tour package's upfront cash cost.
A handwritten statement Ahmed gave to police said he also provided a chauffeur, tour guide and translator for clients visiting the Spanish-speaking Caribbean island for a cost of about $2,500.
Ahmed ran the tours for about eight months and that they included "female companionship, which included sexual favors," prosecutors said.
The scheme was uncovered when a human rights activist from Equality Now saw his ads in the erotic services section of Craigslist.
It's a no-win situation,
if you set up shop in the US, your violating local laws and if you set up in the DR, they'll bust you for pimping, just like the dozens of massage parlors that were raided in 2004.
The scheme was uncovered when a human rights activist from Equality Now saw his ads in the erotic services section of Craigslist.
You gotta wonder what the fuck a so-called "human rights activist" is doing looking at Craigslist in the first place. Little bastard probably took the tour and did 5 or 10 girls before he called it in.
Rock
Grand Pollo
07-24-07, 05:57
Im just curious if there might be a hassle being found with a load of condoms and lube entering the DR ? A few condoms might be easier to explain than 20.
Ive wondered about this in other countries as well but have never been questioned.
I brought down 5 gross (5 X144 = 720) mail-order rubbers once for a guy who lives there, and when the customs guy found them I told him there was no tax on condoms in the DR anyway, and he bought it. Spanish helps a lot in such instances.
I gave him a $1 box of chocolates and said Merry Xmas. Big smile and a handshake.
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