General Info

Yes, I can do that. And yes it does take seconds maybe minutes (I don't know exactly how many cause I have not ever timed myself). The Dominican Republic mostly works in DOP. And when I am working in DOP only or USD only [B]online banking[/B] does save me a lot of time. You can transfer money, pay bills for services (electric, water, cable / internet), taxes and recargas. You can pay your credit card bill and loans of all types.

But you cannot exchange currency online. Nor would I want to. I know the bank manager at the retail branch I frequent the most. And when I need to exchange currency in large amounts she calls the trading desk for me and gets me an exchange rate that is 500 - 800 basis points higher than the advertised bank rate.

When I am not exchanging amounts of that size I pull money out of my account via ATM which routinely give me a higher rate than say Caribe Express also. And when I do that I have to deposit the withdrawal into my DOP account in the Dominican Republic because I only keep on hand enough to cover my personal operating expenses for 1 - 3 months. That is when I have to stand in line at the bank.

Now anyone who knows how to handle finances better in the Dominican Republic is welcome to post it up here in the General Information section or send me a PM. I am not above learning or teaching.

[QUOTE=RickRock;2735696]If you would have been in a [b]first world country[/b] it would have taken 30 seconds. Possibly less if you were up to date and using an app.[/QUOTE]The World Bank classifies economies for analytical purposes into four income groups: low, lower-middle, upper-middle, and high income. So I do not even know what you mean by a "first world country".

[URL]https://datatopics.worldbank.org/world-development-indicators/the-world-by-income-and-region.html[/URL]#text=The%20 World%20 Bank%20 classifies%20 economies,%2 Dmiddle%2 see%20 and%20 high%20 income.

After living in the Dominican Republic for so long I rarely read anything in ISG that resembles anything that actually occurs on a day to day basis in my life here. Maybe that is because there are levels to it and I have leveled up. LOL!

Question:

I'm looking to book a hotel room in Sosua.

Is it cheaper to book on the hotel website or thru Orbitx, Expedia etc?? - (I have researched but tax calculation creates unusual price discrepancies).

[QUOTE=Adinga;2736862]Question:

I'm looking to book a hotel room in Sosua.

Is it cheaper to book on the hotel website or thru Orbitx, Expedia etc?? - (I have researched but tax calculation creates unusual price discrepancies).[/QUOTE]I have booked hotels online twice. I do not remember the site that I used. But at one the rate online that I got was better than the rack rate walking in through the door. On the other one it was the same rate as the rack rate waking in through the door. But my friend staying there introduced me to the manager who told me next time to contact him directly. If you have a question about the rate, contact the hotel directly.

You didn't ask, but if you think that you might visit Sosua more than once, if you like your hotel, ask to see the manager at the front desk, tell them your intentions and see what kind of deal you can cut for yourself directly. I have always worked with the manager of the place where I stay in Sosua. I found it through a suggestion from a fellow traveler. I walked in and asked what were the rates and asked to see the room. I booked right then and there. I was hotel hopping that trip. Changed spots every two days until I found what I liked. I do not know if it gets me a good price. But it certainly gets me good service and access to the knowledge of a person that lives there full time.

Please make a note of who is posting information to help others that are asking questions up in the Dominican Republic thread. I don't write for the frequent visitors who know everything but share nothing. I write for those that are starting to move up the learning curve just like I had to do. And it should be noted I am still learning. There is no "best way" to do anything in Sosua. Only things that through experience have worked for others. They may or may not work for you.

This is Subcmdr, you know where I live, and you know what I am. Ya happy now? You know who I am talking to. [B]LOL![/B].

The new minimum wage law in the Dominican Republic sets the monthly household wage of a domestic worker at 10,000 DOP / month. That is for 5 8 hours days and 6th for 4 hours.

That gentlemen is insight into the economy of the Dominican Republic.

[QUOTE=Aragorn;2700592]Hello fellow mongers.

I've done my mongering while on overseas assignments, always brothels or chicas who had their own apartments for a short time so I'd sleep at home.

Like many men of a certain age, I have sleep apnea. Do visitors to the DR bother to bring their CPAP machines?

Pretty easy to buy distilled water or do you just use vinegar to remove the mineral residue?

Thanks![/QUOTE]When I travel, I use a plastic mouthpiece that moves forward my lower mandible; it works great. Try it.

I'll be making first trip to SD and BC. I don't want to unintentionally drive the market up. I see info of 2,000 - 2,500 for 1 HR. Back the room pop, what's the guideline for a 4 HR. Multiple pop session. I understand it's always negotiable to a point. My visit will be short. I don't have the luxury of searching out the best deals. I just don't want to drive the market up for the regulars. Some DC girls tell me they will stay with me in BC for a day or two. I don't know where to begin an offer for that. What's a starting point for a full day or two that keeps me in the game? I don't want to drive them off out of ignorance.

[QUOTE=NoSpark;2772126]I'll be making first trip to SD and BC. I don't want to unintentionally drive the market up. I see info of 2,000 - 2,500 for 1 HR. Back the room pop, what's the guideline for a 4 HR. Multiple pop session. I understand it's always negotiable to a point. My visit will be short. I don't have the luxury of searching out the best deals. I just don't want to drive the market up for the regulars. Some DC girls tell me they will stay with me in BC for a day or two. I don't know where to begin an offer for that. What's a starting point for a full day or two that keeps me in the game? I don't want to drive them off out of ignorance.[/QUOTE]You could ask them how much they want. If they expect more than you try to give them in the end, you might wind up with a pain in the ass in your hotel. How you going to get rid of her then? Also if shes not making what she wants to make, shes not going to be happy and shes not going to make you happy. A while back when I was in Sosua it seemed like the pros were getting the equivalent of US $100 for overnighters. Allot of them were getting more I'm sure, these were the Haitian sitting at the bars on the beach strip.

But itll cost you more than that when they tengo hambre every two hours.

Personally I couldnt see bussing a chick down from the capital who I dont even know to stay with me.
You could end up with a sweetheart and have a great time. Just choose wisely, you might want to do a short tine first to make sure you’re compatible

You could end up with a sweetheart and have a great time. Just choose wisely, you might want to do a short time first to make sure you're compatible.

Sam, Yes. Thank you. Very helpful. I just needed a starting point. I understand that there is no specific $ amount. I just needed a starting point so as not to be taken advantage of, setting a new all time DR record, or insulting a 10 with an initial offer that kills the mood. 100% agree that if the girl isn't happy, you're not going to be happy. "When mamma's not happy, nobodies happy."

I agree that arranging a LT visit, only to find out when she shows, it's not good creates a problem. When I looked at my DC contacts, they're almost all in SD. As others have pointed out, they likely don't want to go to BC. As a result, I'm planning to spend my free time in SD. If they've only invested 20 minutes of their time or less in a cab within SD, it's much less dynamic to change the plan.

I'm not trying to necessarily be easy on the wallet. I don't have the luxury of time for bargain shopping.

I welcome you opinion on my suggested approach. For the few I think are 10's I'll ask to meet them mid day with no expectation of more than 3-4 hrs. If it's all good go from there. I recognize the girl may not have planned on overnight and may have to leave. There's always another day or another chica.

Where I'm confused a bit is the escalation scale.

$35-$45, ST one pop.

$50-$60, LT 2 pops.

$100, All night.

If you look at it on a per HR. Basis seems disproportionate.

Best to have a girl you have been with or a DC girl who you vet. The hard core girls will want 100 plus but Cupid girls pretend they are not pros and will play the long game. After proper vetting you can get a girl who acts like your girlfriend. A dominican girlfriend will fuck your brains out. Most are thrilled to be in nice hotels and restaurants. I don't recommend shacking up with pros. They go for the juggler every time. Much greater chance of being ripped off by the pros. Many of the Cupid girls are really nice people and make good companions. The sex is much better with women trying to please opposed to women trying to get paid. Most Cupid girls are thrilled to do a few days because most have kids and can not spend much time away from their families. However if you just want to bust nuts do the casas and SWs. Pay what works for you.

[QUOTE=Sam14;2772419]You could ask them how much they want. If they expect more than you try to give them in the end, you might wind up with a pain in the ass in your hotel. How you going to get rid of her then? Also if shes not making what she wants to make, shes not going to be happy and shes not going to make you happy. A while back when I was in Sosua it seemed like the pros were getting the equivalent of US $100 for overnighters. Allot of them were getting more I'm sure, these were the Haitian sitting at the bars on the beach strip.

But itll cost you more than that when they tengo hambre every two hours.

Personally I couldnt see bussing a chick down from the capital who I dont even know to stay with me.
You could end up with a sweetheart and have a great time. Just choose wisely, you might want to do a short tine first to make sure youre compatible[/QUOTE]

Thanks OldKool. Much appreciated. I've read much of your posts here in ISG. I also want contribute as soon as I have something to share. I do want to share that I contacted the Courtyard Marriott in SD in Colonial Zone by phone directly. I had a frank conversation regarding their guest policy. Bottom line. They are Chica friendly. You can have up to 2 in your room before they want additional fee. (I should be so lucky) They do require guests to sign in.

You have helped me make my decision. I'm focusing on SD and DC girls. We'll see what we see. As advised here earlier, the plan will be dynamic I'm sure.

I arrive Wed Jan 11. I'll be in SD through the following Thurs Jan 19. I should have time to post a few update while I'm there.

It seems DC girls don't want to talk $ up front. That's a bit of a risk. Seems starting at a $100 for spending the night isn't getting them to jump right in the boat.

Many of the DC girls are not hard core. Most are regular girls who are bored and poor by our standards. The chance to get out of the house and away from their responsibilities is very attractive. I get girls who do not live in SD. Going to the Capitol sleeping in airconditioned rooms is very appealing. When they agree to come and spend the weekend you are set. Once in your room they know they are fucking. They will not ask for money but will gladly accept gifts and cash when offered. When a girl asks for money up front she is hardcore and you should cut her off. The one exception is bus fare. If after good vetting results paying for transportation costs is ok. I also use the lore of a nice gift to get them motivated. Having willing excited girl friend for a few days is priceless.

[QUOTE=NoSpark;2772845]Thanks OldKool. Much appreciated. I've read much of your posts here in ISG. I also want contribute as soon as I have something to share. I do want to share that I contacted the Courtyard Marriott in SD in Colonial Zone by phone directly. I had a frank conversation regarding their guest policy. Bottom line. They are Chica friendly. You can have up to 2 in your room before they want additional fee. (I should be so lucky) They do require guests to sign in.

You have helped me make my decision. I'm focusing on SD and DC girls. We'll see what we see. As advised here earlier, the plan will be dynamic I'm sure.

I arrive Wed Jan 11. I'll be in SD through the following Thurs Jan 19. I should have time to post a few update while I'm there.

It seems DC girls don't want to talk $ up front. That's a bit of a risk. Seems starting at a $100 for spending the night isn't getting them to jump right in the boat.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=NoSpark;2772845]I do want to share that I contacted the Courtyard Marriott in SD in Colonial Zone by phone directly. [/QUOTE]The Courtyard is not in Zona Colonial. It is in Ensanche Indepedencia on Maximo Gomez. This is west of Zona Colonial. It is a 30 minute walk and with traffic a 15 minute drive. I stayed there once and they treated the chick that I was with like a hooker although she was not. We checked in together. I think those mfs overcharged me too if I recall correctly. This was years ago.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2773328]The Courtyard is not in Zona Colonial. It is in Ensanche Indepedencia on Maximo Gomez. This is west of Zona Colonial. It is a 30 minute walk and with traffic a 15 minute drive. I stayed there once and they treated the chick that I was with like a hooker although she was not. We checked in together. I think those mfs overcharged me too if I recall correctly. This was years ago.[/QUOTE]Same thing happened to me at the Hilton. Had my novia come in from La Romana and we both checked in. 2nd night took her to colonial for dinner on the way back parked the car and went in 3rd floor entrance. Gestapo wannabe security stop me and her (she's really hot!) Told me I had to go down to the street and go to front desk. Told them to fuck off. They keyed the elevator and brought me up back to the 3rd floor. He demanded I leave so I said sure. Snapped pics with my phone and said I'll see you tomorrow. Had to book a room for the rest of the evening at the hotel that begins with a be. Next day did the same no one manning third floor entrance. We change clothes and I demand the manager. He starts off apologizing and about to suck my jock and I told him not good enough. After 20 minutes of wasted life I said I'll handle this above your level. Contacted Hilton Honors (I'm Diamond member) They said they would look into it immediately. Last two days I got a free dinner to room, champagne, 15,000 points to my account and a personal apology from the faggot manager. Last night took her to dinner again and same gerbils were manning third floor. I said out loud "will there be a problem again?" I could here their heartbeats and crickets.

[QUOTE=MrEnternational;2773328]The Courtyard is not in Zona Colonial. It is in Ensanche Indepedencia on Maximo Gomez. This is west of Zona Colonial. It is a 30 minute walk and with traffic a 15 minute drive. I stayed there once and they treated the chick that I was with like a hooker although she was not. We checked in together. I think those mfs overcharged me too if I recall correctly. This was years ago.[/QUOTE]I stayed there a few times too. I agree with Mr E on location, although a taxi to the Zona is not expensive from there. I found the place to be very friendly to my chicas, who were all paid for their efforts. But, I have never been particularly sensitive to the "walk of shame", because what I do in the DR is not illegal and if people don't care for my brand of morality, I don't care. One thing I liked about the Courtyard is that you can get connecting rooms, meaning that if you are with your wingman you can party together very easily (indeed, we did an "intercambio" the last time I was there). That can be done without connecting rooms, of course, but it made it easy and fun.

That being said, the Boutique Hotel Palacio is my go-to place. It is GF, right on the Conde, a short walk to restaurants and one can even get a cheap BBBJ in the afternoon by taking a quick walk down the Conde (near the tourist police station) when the doldrums might otherwise set in.

Let's make this a thing. If you never heard of it Google it and use it as a replacement to buying a physical aim card when abroad. Long story short newer phones come with the feature to have digital sim cards. You can buy a plan from an esim provider install it the day before you leave and when you arrive you will already be connected to the network. I didn't here about this anywhere on the forum and thought I bring this to y'alls attention.