The Dominican Republic: Easy Caribbean Living
The beaches in the Dominican Republic are long expanses of fine white sand that stretch out along the coast. The blue-green waters are excellent for diving, swimming, surfing, and wind surfing.
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Fast Facts
Population: 10,088,598
Capital City: Santo Domingo
Climate: Tropical maritime; little seasonal temperature variation; seasonal variation in rainfall
Time Zone: GMT-4
Dominican Republic Articles
Dominican Republic: Is This the Perfect Caribbean?Posted on March 7, 2013 by International Living
Las Terrenas in the Dominican Republic isn’t a cookie-cutter, mass-market kind of place. It’s chic and low-key with palm-lined beaches, brightly-painted stores, and a beach lifestyle that’s enviably relaxed. It’s a retreat for wealthy Dominicans and stylish Europeans but it’s still very affordable. And it’s a place where your vacation home could earn nice rental income when you’re not using it yourself. You can check out Las Terrenas on a custom chill weekend. It’s the easiest way to sample tropical island living at its finest – see if it’s for you.
Affordable Caribbean EscapesPosted on January 29, 2013 by Suzan Haskins
The tops of the palms wave cheerily in the breeze like giant green feather dusters against a soft blue, cloudless sky. I’m bobbing contentedly in the warm turquoise waters looking back at the beach, its silky white sands speckled with tiny seashells. Despite it being mid-summer I’m the only one swimming in this small cove…the only one enjoying this flawless slice of beach this morning.
A Caribbean Escape Three Hours from New YorkPosted on December 20, 2012 by Suzan Haskins
The tops of the palms wave cheerily in the breeze like giant green feather dusters against a soft blue, cloudless sky. I’m bobbing contentedly in the warm turquoise waters looking back at the beach, its silky white sands speckled with tiny seashells. Despite it being mid-summer I’m the only one swimming in this small cove…the only one enjoying this flawless slice of beach this morning.
The Ultimate Caribbean Getaway: Chill in Las TerrenasPosted on December 3, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
In this stunning Caribbean location you can buy a condo close to the beach for less than $100,000. Or if you fancy something a bit more lavish, you can splash out and get a dream home for a fraction of the cost you would pay on other Caribbean islands. I’m talking about Las Terrenas, a little piece of paradise on the Dominican Republic’s Samana peninsula.
A Grand Vision: Chill in the Dominican RepublicPosted on December 3, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Sitting here, calm Caribbean waters sparking in the tropical sun, a warm breeze gently flapping beach umbrellas, an ice cold drink in hand; I’m enjoying my first taste of life in this early-in Caribbean resort community. This is the first of six beach bars and restaurants to open in the residential community of the Gran Bahia Principe La Romana, in the Dominican Republic. This is a strong, early-in opportunity if you are looking to be part of an accessible Caribbean resort community.
Undervalued and Overlooked: The Secret Beaches of SamanáPosted on November 26, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Over four continents, dozens and dozens of countries, and hundreds of scouting trips, I’ve learned one thing: A last-minute change of plan or a chance meeting, often leads me to the best opportunities. When you put yourself out there, the pot of gold you find often isn’t the one you set out for…but it’s still gold…
FLASH ALERT: The Dominican Republic for $105,000Posted on November 24, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
“It never rains, but it pours.” In yesterday’s Flash Alert I told you about how you could save $177,000 on a luxury beachfront penthouse in Las Terrenas, where you’ll find 19 miles of stunning beach backed by palm trees and great restaurants. Today, I’m writing to tell you about another condo opportunity in Las Terrenas.
FLASH ALERT: Save $177,000 on this Dominican Republic BeachPosted on November 23, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Something just crossed my desk which I wanted you to see immediately. This opportunity comes with a potential saving of $177,000…maybe more.
FLASH ALERT: Dominican Republic (SOLD OUT)Posted on September 20, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
In February I told you that Las Terrenas on the Dominican Republic’s Samana peninsula is a little piece of paradise. Nineteen miles of walkable public beach, palm trees, warm breezes and stars so bright it feels like you could pluck them from the sky. I can’t think of a nicer place to have a beach home. You’ll find your dollars stretch here, too. Particularly with an opportunity like this one…
“The Best Caribbean Real Estate Values I’ve Seen…”Posted on September 19, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Turquoise waters wash empty white-sand beach. Palm trees sway and rustle in the breeze. These sands haven’t been manicured or manufactured. They sit the way nature sculpted them… littered with coconuts. A hammock in the shade is for afternoon dozing. Friends gather for cold drinks at sunset at one of the brightly painted buildings that cluster on one part of the beach.
Island-Living in the Dominican RepublicPosted on August 22, 2012 by Suzan Haskins
My own personal bias here, but should I ever choose to live on an island, I’ll make it a big one… It’s best, of course, if the island has a variety of elevations so that a variety of crops can be grown year-round. And should I choose to add a tropical year-round climate and warm, crystal-clear water to the mix (which I would, of course) I’d head directly to Hispaniola…and specifically to the Dominican Republic.
Member-only Invitation to the Caribbean this OctoberPosted on August 10, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
On May 31, I told you about the opportunity members of our little group have to buy a lot here with a down payment of $21,350…with 36 monthly payments (interest-free) of $800… and a final payment of $19,200. A small number of these lots are still available. Today, I would like to extend a special invitation to visit and experience what it will be like to spend time here and explore the surrounding areas.
Early-in Opportunity: Bang for Your Buck in the CaribbeanPosted on June 28, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
It’s a stunning and accessible location. It’s easy and affordable to get there. It’s going to be luxurious. And right now you can get in on this self-contained Caribbean resort for half the price you’d pay in a more mature one just 30 minutes away.
Where to Buy Right NowPosted on June 14, 2012 by Suzan Haskins
The past two days have seen us gathered in a posh conference room where we’ve spent more than 18 hours discussing and learning about the best real estate markets on the planet. If it is your dream to own a home or condo overlooking your own private beach, listen up. I can now tell you exactly where to find it and how you can own it. And you may be able to buy it with zero down and 0% financing.
Confessions of an Uncertain AmericanPosted on June 14, 2012 by Suzan Haskins
Where you buy is important…sometimes. What you buy is critical…usually. The Terms you negotiate and What NOT to Buy….essential. What it all boils down to is based on one key factor. It’s simple really…but I have lots to cover here. However, there is one simple, low-cost way to protect yourself and your real estate investment dollars…
Deal Alert: New Beach Town in the D.R.Posted on May 31, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
In January I told you about my visit to the Gran Bahia Principe resort in La Romana, Dominican Republic. Plans call for a major new Caribbean beach resort town spread out over 1,500 acres…with close to one-and-a-half miles of beach. Since then I have been running the rule over this opportunity and negotiating an “off market” deal for RETA members.
Ecuador: Best Retirement Haven in the WorldPosted on May 28, 2012 by anon
A round-up of the events you should be chalking down on your callendar. All of these events are expected to sell fast, so book your place early to avoid disappointment.
Living by the Beach in the Dominican RepublicPosted on May 15, 2012 by Lindsay de Feliz
Just a few decades ago there were only two ways to reach the natural paradise of Las Terrenas, on the Dominican Republic’s Samana Peninsula. You could take a horse, or a boat. Then, word spread among Europeans about a place with stunning waterfalls cascading down from lush green mountains, and shady woodlands touching on miles of palm-fringed, white-sand beaches.
IL Readers at Home in Oceanfront HavensPosted on April 25, 2012 by International Living
Just a few decades ago there were only two ways to reach the natural paradise of Las Terrenas, on the Dominican Republic’s Samana Peninsula. You could take a horse, or a boat.
Fast Track Your Good Life in EcuadorPosted on April 25, 2012 by International Living
Winner of the 2012 Global Retirement Index, Ecuador offers sophisticated historical cities…miles of unspoiled, sun-kissed beaches…fertile farmland…and temperate mountain hideaways…and all of it for pennies on the dollar. You can live well for a fraction of the cost of living back in the U.S.
The World’s Best Real Estate MarketsPosted on March 27, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
In pockets all across the planet, you’ll find amazing opportunities to make money from real estate. I’m talking about beautiful places tucked into lush jungle-clad hills, on white sandy coves, in bustling cities, and in small colonial towns. These are markets on the upswing. The mainstream hasn’t heard of them yet. And in them today you’ll get excellent bang for your buck as well as great profit potential.
Highlights from the Global Real Estate Index 2012Posted on March 27, 2012 by International Living
Some of the best properties up for grabs in the countries that topped IL’s Global Real Estate Index 2012.
The World’s Best Real Estate Markets in 2012Posted on March 27, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
In this Global Real Estate Index, you’ll find listed the 27 places in the world today that boast the most attractive, and potentially lucrative, real estate opportunities. Each of these places has something special to recommend it…some attribute you won’t find elsewhere. Those that top the list hold the most profit potential right now. Those at mid-table and below are ones to watch.
You Are InvitedPosted on March 18, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
I want you to be the first to receive my invitation. After all, the schedule is designed for you. And with only 150 places available, it’s important that you have the opportunity to consider dates and act before these few seats sell out.
A Caribbean Beach House That Pays for ItselfPosted on March 16, 2012 by Len Galvin
My friend Margaret just sent me details of the best property she found on her recent Caribbean scouting trip. She’s from Pathfinder, IL’s preferred real estate advertiser—and clocks up serious air miles on her scouting trips. When Margaret calls a property the “best” anything, it’s worth paying attention to. In the video below, she reveals an affordable beach house on a Caribbean island.
Dominican Republic: Sea Views, White Sand, and a Secret BeachPosted on March 6, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Las Terrenas on the Dominican Republic’s Samana peninsula is a little piece of paradise. The road south-east from Las Terrenas winds its way through hills clad with palm trees. This is how the first visitors found these hills. How nature intended. These aren’t farmed palms in tidy lines. After a 30-minute drive the bay opens up in front of us.
The Properties Everyone Wants – Near the Beaches Everyone VisitsPosted on February 25, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
On the Dominican Republic’s Samana peninsula, Las Terrenas is a little piece of paradise. Nineteen miles of walkable public beach, palm trees, warm breezes and stars so bright it feels like you could pluck them from the sky… I can’t think of a nicer place to have a beach home. You’ll find your dollars stretch here, too.
Events: The Most Attractive Retirement “Package” in the WorldPosted on February 21, 2012 by anon
Here’s a round-up of the events you should be keeping an eye on over the coming months. First up, the Fast Track Panama: Lifestyle and Opportunity Conference which is kicking off this April in Panama City. Panama is, arguably, the one country on our beat that offers something for everyone. Beaches. Big City. Colonial enclaves. Highland retreats. In this diverse place, the sun shines someplace, 365 days a year. You have hundreds of miles of sandy expanse…in the hills, green valleys are spring-like, even in January and August…and Panama City is genuinely cosmopolitan, with one of the world’s largest financial districts.
Mansions and Luxury LivingPosted on February 21, 2012 by anon
It’s the world’s most affordable retirement haven, but that doesn’t mean you can’t splash the cash on top-end luxury in Ecuador.
The Beach Home Rental Business in the D.R.Posted on February 17, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
The drive from La Romana to Las Terrenas brought me back toward Santo Domingo before joining the main highway from Santo Domingo to Las Terrenas. Studying the opportunity at Las Terrenas in the Dominican Republic is the primary purpose of this scouting trip.
Notes From the D.R. – “I’ve Never Seen Anything Like It!”Posted on February 16, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
The plans at the Gran Bahia Principe (the new resort I told you about in my last report from the Dominican Republic) call for a self-contained mini-town. Residents here will be able to go to school…get medical treatment…enjoy their leisure activities (like golf and tennis)…dock their boat…get dressed up for fine dining…dress down for cocktails and a snack on the beach…buy groceries in the supermarket…You get the idea.
What I Found on This Beach in the Dominican RepublicPosted on February 6, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Brilliant bright white sand reflects the warm early afternoon sunshine. Fresh breezes mean it’s pleasant to eat outside. On a peninsula like this you can rely on these breezes almost year round. The water is flat, clear and turquoise. The sand a rich tan. If you have preconceptions about the Dominican Republic, put them to one side.
The Dominican Republic Scouting Trip, Part 1Posted on January 28, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
Santo Domingo is the capital city of the Dominican Republic and one of the largest cities in Latin America. I haven’t explored it yet. That will have to wait until the tail end of my scouting trip. Pulling out of the airport…across the bay her skyline glimmers. I’m most interested in the restored colonial center. Museums, restaurants and short-term rental market. My 11-day scouting trip will end in Santo Domingo.
Caribbean Island OpportunityPosted on January 27, 2012 by Ronan McMahon
White-sand beaches. Turquoise waters. Coconut palms. Brightly colored beachfront pizzerias. And hopefully a big opportunity for us… My bags are packed. I’m heading to the Dominican Republic (DR).
What Life Overseas Really Looks Like…Posted on January 19, 2012 by anon
What Life Overseas Really Looks Like…
Skeptics inquire: Are the opportunities overseas really as great as we at IL portray them to be? The short answer is “yes.” But don’t take my word for it… Listen, instead, to the many firsthand stories we’ve collected in this month’s issue—on-the-ground reports from folks who decided to answer the question for themselves…at the beach…in the hills…in cities…or on islands…
The D.R. Wants U.S. EntrepreneursPosted on January 19, 2012 by anon
If you’re an entrepreneur abroad, the key to your success is flexibility. If you have an open mind and a keen eye for opportunities and unmet needs, you’ll find your market niche. Just consider the variety of opportunities I uncovered in the Dominican Republic…
Beaches, Caves, and Cane Fields: Five Surprises of the Caribbean DRPosted on December 20, 2011 by Lindsay de Feliz
Only a two-hour flight from the U.S. and home to 1,015 miles of Caribbean coastline, exquisite white-sand beaches, swaying palms, and friendly locals, the Dominican Republic has long been a popular vacation destination. Every year four million people visit its shores to stay in all-inclusive hotels or as part of a cruise itinerary.
The Best-Value Real EstatePosted on December 20, 2011 by International Living
Whether your dream retreat is a graceful colonial home with lavish gardens, a simple beachfront bungalow where you can prop up your feet and watch the tide roll in, an expansive hacienda with enough acreage for horses to roam, or a cliff-side villa with sunset views and cool, steady breezes, you’ll find it in Mexico.
Where to Look in the Year Ahead for the Best Property DealsPosted on November 9, 2011 by Ronan McMahon
Greetings from Quito, Ecuador. In a few moments, I leave for the north coast. This is Ecuador’s nicest stretch of coast. We have the opportunity to buy lots here with monthly payments of $500 or less. Because of the new highway we’ll reach the coast by 9.30 a.m. or so. In time for morning ceviche on the beach.
I’m looking forward to seeing the improvements in the coastal highway that runs south to Canoa since I last visited. I’ll send you my full report soon on the infrastructure developments and improvements at the Jama Campay project.
In fact, while the year is winding down…my travel schedule and deal pipeline is filling up. These are exciting times.
Where to Start a Business Abroad: Our 7 Top Picks for the Year AheadPosted on October 27, 2011 by International Living
It might be a palapa bar on a white-sand beach, deep-sea fishing tours, a restaurant, a surf shop, importing t-bone steaks, teaching English, making cheese, exporting art work…Whatever your idea, there’s a place overseas where you can make it a profitable reality. But readers ask us all the time: Where is best? That’s why we’ve put together International Living’s first-ever Business Index.
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