What I Wish I Knew Before Moving Abroad to the Dominican Republic

Hope everyone is getting off to a great start this week…

If you're thinking about moving abroad or you've already made the leap you probably have a mix of excitement and uncertainty swirling in your chest. I’ve been there. When I packed up my life and moved to the Dominican Republic, I was chasing peace, purpose, and a slower pace of life.

And while I did find all of that (and more!), I also learned some hard truths along the way.

So today, I want to share what I wish someone had told me before I booked that one-way flight. These are the real-deal insights that go beyond the pretty beaches and tourist vibes because moving abroad isn’t a vacation... it’s a whole lifestyle shift.

Let’s get into it.

1. Culture Shock is Real—and That’s Okay

At first, everything feels exciting. The music, the food, the warmth of the people. But then? Reality sets in. You realize that simple tasks—like paying a bill, getting something delivered, or understanding fast-paced Dominican Spanish—can feel overwhelming.

What I learned:
Give yourself grace. You’re not failing you’re adjusting. Culture shock isn’t a sign you made a mistake. It’s a sign you’re growing.

2. Things Don’t Move Fast—And You Shouldn’t Either

Coming from a fast-paced, efficiency-obsessed culture, I struggled with the Dominican approach to time. Appointments don’t always start on time. Paperwork takes longer. And mañana (tomorrow) might really mean “not anytime soon.”

What I learned:
You can’t fight the flow here and you shouldn’t try. Slowing down isn’t laziness, it’s a lifestyle. Patience is your new passport.

3. Do Not Skip the Legal Research

Visas, residency, importing goods, buying land none of it is as simple as it may look online. I’ve seen people make major life decisions without proper legal guidance, only to end up frustrated or even stuck.

What I learned:
Talk to a local attorney or relocation consultant before making big moves. Don’t assume the rules are like back home. Spoiler: They’re not.

4. Language is a Bridge—Build It Early

Yes, you can survive without speaking Spanish, especially in tourist zones. But if you want to live beyond the resort life, build real community, and not get overcharged at the colmado, learn the language—especially Dominican Spanish.

What I learned:
You don’t need to be fluent to be understood. People will meet you halfway if they see you trying.

5. Community is Everything

The DR is a warm and welcoming place, but it’s also tight-knit. You can’t just live here you have to show up here. That means talking to your neighbors, supporting local businesses, and learning the unspoken rules of respect.

What I learned:
Building genuine community here takes time and consistency, but it’s the key to feeling like you belong, not just exist.

6. You Don’t Need to Be Rich—But You Do Need a Plan

The cost of living is lower here, yes but it's easy to burn through your money if you’re living like a tourist or relying on savings without a backup income stream.

What I learned:
Have a remote income strategy before you move, and track your expenses. Living abroad is affordable, but only when you live intentionally.

💡 Final Thoughts: You’re Not Just Moving, You’re Evolving

Moving to the Dominican Republic has been one of the most powerful decisions of my life. It’s taught me to slow down, surrender control, deepen my values, and trust myself in ways I never expected.

But if there’s one thing I’d tell the “me” who was still packing boxes, it’s this:

Your journey abroad won’t look like anyone else’s—and that’s the beauty of it. Lean into the lessons. Laugh through the mistakes. And let this island teach you something your old life never could.

You’ve got this.

To living your best life (with a view),
Jay
Live Your Best Life – from the DR 🇩🇴