What is the official language and currency of this country?
The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish. The local currency is the Dominican Peso, although US dollars and travelers cheques are easily exchangeable in the local Banks and Exchange Bureaus.

Are there any legal restrictions forforeigners owning property in the Dominican Republic?
No, there are no legal restriction on the ownership of real estate in the Dominican Republic, which means there is ample opportunity for foreign investment, and with investment prices rising some areas as much as 25% per year, it is a good time to buy property.

Will I be able to find an English speaking lawyer?
There are many Law Practices on the North Coast who have English speaking lawyers. Although Spanish is the first language of the Country, English is widely spoken, especially in professional circles.

What are the health services on the North Coast?
It is important to purchase travel medical insurance when traveling to any Overseas Country, including the Dominican Republic. The main hospital and most of the private medical clinics are located in Puerto Plata, but there are doctors in Sosua and Cabarete. For residents there are insurance companies here on the North Coast that offer medical health insurance policies with comprehensive cover, at very reasonable prices.

Are there any international schools on the North Coast?
The International School of Sosua (ISS) is located on 9.5 acres of beautiful farmland in Sosua. This campus style school is an all accredited private co educational day school with students from Pre Kinder to Grade 12, and has students from over 22 different countries. Puerto Plata have several private, Spanish speaking schools, and at the moment 3 English speaking private schools.

Will there be any restrictions when shipping over my pets?
Cats and dogs need to have a passport or health certificate from their veterinarian, stating that they are of good health, and are arriving from areas free from serious disease and have had all the required injections. For complete information and details regarding other animal species contact the Direccion General de Ganadaria. Individual transportation arrangements and regulations will need to be discussed with the airline involved.

Is it a safe place to live and are the locals friendly to foreigners?
The locals are all very friendly and courteous. They will gladly help you if approached on the street, although they prefer to be addressed in Spanish. As far as safety goes, it is a very safe country, although it is important to use common sense and be respectful at all times.

Are there reliable internet and telephone communication services?
Codetel, Tricom, Orange and Centennial are the main telecommunication providers for mobiles, landlines and internet services in the DR. The phone system is much like the USA and there are no problems with international calls. Internet cafes can be found in most tourist destinations on the island, and there are internet services in all the larger hotels.

Driving in the Dominican Republic
Normally the minimum age to rent a vehicle in the DR is 21 years old. You will need to produce your passport and a valid driving license, either international or from your own country. You can use your foreign driving license for up to 90 days in the DR. Generally a passport or credit card needs to be left with the rental company to allow you to secure a vehicle rental contact. Driving in the DR is done on the right hand side as in North America.

Where we can buy international groceries?
Many of the larger supermarkets in Sosua, Cabarete and Puerto Plata carry a good if not wide range of international wines, beers, food and produce. Many European and American made products are available, in these larger resort areas, towns and cities. Branded toiletries are also to be found in pharmacies, supermarkets and hotel gift shops.