04/2011 - Ex Pats That Fall

[el toro]

What's up fellas,

Every time I go to Sosua now I see an ex-pat that seems nearly homeless now. When I first met him hanging out at NG he seemed to be doing well for himself and that he had an online hustle that was allowing him to live well there.

Some guys move to DR or other countries to enjoy the good life on comfortable pensions or reasonable cash reserves. Some relocate with business plans that don't always work out, or without a real plan, help the wrong people, get suckered for their stash or for whatever reason end up down and out and broke.

Some don't want to go home because they don't want to return to the US feeling like a failure embarrassed.

Do you know any ex-pats like this? Do you throw a few pesos their direction when visiting or sasy fuck em they CAN move back or have family somewhere or should've never moved without better plans, and are better off than most locales?

[Jimmydr]

Some guys move to DR or other countries to enjoy the good life on comfortable pensions or reasonable cash reserves. Some relocate with business plans that don't always work out, or without a real plan, help the wrong people, get suckered for their stash or for whatever reason end up down and out and broke.




About 98% will fail.

[Jimmydr]

What's up fellas,


Do you know any ex-pats like this? Do you throw a few pesos their direction when visiting or sasy fuck em they CAN move back or have family somewhere or should've never moved without better plans, and are better off than most locales?


I knew a few there, but, they decided that they would beat the odds and failed, so too bad for them.

[Jimmydr]

Why are these guys any different from the ones you see along the way to work, or home. We don't chat with most of them, or do we?

[el toro]

Why are these guys any different from the ones you see along the way to work, or home. We don't chat with most of them, or do we?

I see your point JDR.

I see them a little differently because they were often mongers first that moved to our vacation paradise and a foreign land. Also, being able and willing to work doesn't mean much for them just like the illegals here. The script is flipped in that sense.

The common connection (monger-DR-US) is different than a random homeless person on the street in the US and some may have different opinions about helping or not helping them.

[Jimmydr]

I see your point JDR.

I see them a little differently because they were often mongers first that moved to our vacation paradise and a foreign land. Also, being able and willing to work doesn't mean much for them just like the illegals here. The script is flipped in that sense.

The common connection (monger-DR-US) is different than a random homeless person on the street in the US and some may have different opinions about helping or not helping them.


Along the way, I met guys that were ready to quit their jobs and start up a business there. Well, at that point, I realized, they were not all there and it was time to move on. I don't know anyone that has succeeded there.

[Nakom]

Along the way, I met guys that were ready to quit their jobs and start up a business there. Well, at that point, I realized, they were not all there and it was time to move on. I don't know anyone that has succeeded there.

Peter at Passions, the woman that owns Bailey's, ohmmmmm - just to name a few.

[Jimmydr]

Peter at Passions, the woman that owns Bailey's, ohmmmmm - just to name a few.


Peter was there before we got there. He was living there 20 years. He is not one of us nor are the owners from Baileys.

The baileys people have been in the restaurant business for many years, so they say.

Lets revisit this in 10 years and you can tell me how many of the guys that you met on monger trips succeeded.

[SeaWeed]

anyone that I know of that had started a business in foreign has failed.......
even guys with very deep pockets.....there are a lot of minefields and some you don't even see coming...
usually it starts out as a dream and ends up a nightmare......nah tru

[el toro]

It sounds like a better plan if you have fairly deep pockets or substantial savings would be to just budget that money out per month over years to live off than to invest in a business on a roll of the dice there.

[eastcoastallstar]

I met 4 Ex-Pats on this past trip.

All very much in control of thier situation. Far from homeless and Happy as fuck!

Some dudes just go out there on a whim, thinking they could survive on a minimum, then the cost of living rises and they are shit outta luck. Other guys are just plain dumb.

[ElPlomero]

I see your point JDR.

I see them a little differently because they were often mongers first that moved to our vacation paradise and a foreign land. Also, being able and willing to work doesn't mean much for them just like the illegals here. The script is flipped in that sense.

The common connection (monger-DR-US) is different than a random homeless person on the street in the US and some may have different opinions about helping or not helping them.

The way I think of it is... would your being American make this expat do things for you, if he were successful?

I'm thinking that you might get a little conversation, particularly if you had something in common like where you live, your line of work, or something like that...

But do you think he would give you a better rate?

If not... I don't see any reason that you should partially subsidize his failures...

He should go home and try to get things moving again where he has family (maybe) and really fits in.

[TONYTNT40]

All the ex pats, I met in the DR, seem to be doing really well. Jihad, Lou, Fred, Rob and Serra and the Cubana cafe. They all are business owners. Now Brazil is a different story. The DR welcomes foreign business, but Brazil is so corrupt, their goal is to crush foreign business. In 15 years of travel, I only saw one foreign business, exist longer than one year, and in the end, they got him too. I saw ex pats homeless and living in the favela's 8 deep with whores. Guys would go there, get turned out by the girls and quit their 6 figure job, and when they ran out of money, the whores would dump them. Its tough, one night you see a guy mongering in Help and a few years later you see him, begging for food on the streets of Brazil.

[eastcoastallstar]

All the ex pats, I met in the DR, seem to be doing really well. Jihad, Lou, Fred, Rob and Serra and the Cubana cafe. They all are business owners. Now Brazil is a different story. The DR welcomes foreign business, but Brazil is so corrupt, their goal is to crush foreign business. In 15 years of travel, I only saw one foreign business, exist longer than one year, and in the end, they got him too. I saw ex pats homeless and living in the favela's 8 deep with whores. Guys would go there, get turned out by the girls and quit their 6 figure job, and when they ran out of money, the whores would dump them. Its tough, one noight you see a guy mongering in Help and a few years later you see him, begging for food on the streets of Brazil.

#thataintwinning

[Nakom]

Peter was there before we got there. He was living there 20 years. He is not one of us nor are the owners from Baileys.

The baileys people have been in the restaurant business for many years, so they say.

Lets revisit this in 10 years and you can tell me how many of the guys that you met on monger trips succeeded.

I thought the topic was ex-pats that fail, not mongers that fail. You are right about one thing. The stupid ones will fail running a buisness - monger or not.

[Jimmydr]

I thought the topic was ex-pats that fail, not mongers that fail. You are right about one thing. The stupid ones will fail running a buisness - monger or not.


Take the guy with apartments on here. He went there to invest in apartments and should succeed.


There are many guys on the run from the Law and they settle in these places.

[Seville]

Take the guy with apartments on here. He went there to invest in apartments and should succeed.


There are many guys on the run from the Law and they settle in these places.

My Pops did not hurt that girl!!

[Sidney]

Along the way, I met guys that were ready to quit their jobs and start up a business there. Well, at that point, I realized, they were not all there and it was time to move on. I don't know anyone that has succeeded there.
In AR, it can be done. El Alamo, opened the most successful bar in BA. They recently opened in Medellin, Asuncion, and Key West. The Casa Bar, owned by another American is also doing well. I hear your competitor. Jackson, at ISG, is also doing well.:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

[Jimmydr]

In AR, it can be done. El Alamo, opened the most successful bar in BA. They recently opened in Medellin, Asuncion, and Key West. The Casa Bar, owned by another American is also doing well. I hear your competitor. Jackson, at ISG, is also doing well.:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:


Then why would you move to DR, after all, you seem to be having a very bad time here?

[Jimmydr]

In AR, it can be done. El Alamo, opened the most successful bar in BA. They recently opened in Medellin, Asuncion, and Key West. The Casa Bar, owned by another American is also doing well. I hear your competitor. Jackson, at ISG, is also doing well.:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:


I believe we are talking about the Sosua area? I can't talk about places that I have never been, like some others do all the time.

[weyland]

Then why would you move to DR ... ?
Not enough haitianas in Argentina.

[Jimmydr]

Not enough haitianas in Argentina.


There has to be wrong with you guys that focus on one Nationality. I like Dominicans, Mexicans, Colombians and Jamaicans to name a few. I always head to their homelands to nail them.

[weyland]

I am glad this thread was started. I am failing totally. Who will volunteer to set up a network of collecting boxes along the North Coast for my benefit? Those wishing to donate in US$ four figures please PM me for my PayPal account.

CAUTION: do not hand your donation to an ugly, deranged guy who hangs at many popular monger spots in Sosúa such as Black Box and Rocky's and tries to bum drinks off guys by claiming to be my son.

My real son will be a future President of Haïti. I just need ISOC's specialist in the subject (ErikS) to train him in the necessary mooning skills.

[Sidney]

Then why would you move to DR, after all, you seem to be having a very bad time here?
''There you go again!'' Hallucinating! I believe this is elucidated in one of my original posts on ISOC. Additionally, AR developed many problems like extreme inflation, fewer friends visiting, possible severe problems after their election, closure of everyone's favorite hangout, breakup with a 5 year novia, and actually, a very boring scene until very late at night. But, I really miss the steaks! :biggrin:I have been visiting the RD mucho for 10 years and I LIKE the RD !!!!!!!!!!!!!:biggrin:

[Jimmydr]

''There you go again!'' Hallucinating! I believe this is elucidated in one of my original posts on ISOC. Additionally, AR developed many problems like extreme inflation, fewer friends visiting, possible severe problems after their election, closure of everyone's favorite hangout, breakup with a 5 year novia, and actually, a very boring scene until very late at night. But, I really miss the steaks! :biggrin:I have been visiting the RD mucho for 10 years and I LIKE the RD !!!!!!!!!!!!!:biggrin:


Thanks for recapping for me. We have over 900,000 posts here, so how do you expect me to remember everything written.

[Mr. Smooth]

About 98% will fail.

I think your percentage of failure is greatly overestimated. How many places have you been in the world where there is not some sort of expat businesses doing well?

You can't go to the most remote places on the planet without running into an English or Irish pub for example. There are plenty of expat owned bars/restaurants/guest houses that do a decent business and have repeat customers year after year. Plenty of people fail at business in their own country too. How many failed businesses are there in NYC in a given year?

You were recently in Thailand. Did you see all those expat owned businesses, bars and guest houses primarilty, that were doing good and steady and repeat business. Sure, there are slow seasons during the year and times can be a bit tough. But that is always the case in the hospitality business.

You have to remember Jimmy, a person who ventures out away from his home to start a new life in another country, to take that leap of faith, must have supreme confidence in themselves to make it work. There will be failures of course, if it was that easy, everyone would be doing it. But to simply dismiss nearly 100% of expats as failures in a business venture is to underestimate their desire and determination.

I always try to support those expats who made the move and made themselves a new life. Whether it is buying a drink in their bar, a meal in their restaurant or a room at their guest house. Plus, they are a great source of information about the area where they live. That can be a tremendous help if one is a newbie.

Thats one reason why I truly admire the Brits. From such a small island and population (relative) they have an adventurous spirit and drive to go out into the world and stake their claim. And without all the gov't rules and regulations (read: taxes) that they have to adhere to back in Old Blimey.

Plus...they can be funny as hell in their company when having a few pints!

[Jimmydr]

I always try to support those expats who made the move and made themselves a new life. Whether it is buying a drink in their bar, a meal in their restaurant or a room at their guest house. Plus, they are a great source of information about the area where they live. That can be a tremendous help if one is a newbie.




I usually buy from Nationals first, ex Pats second.

[Jimmydr]

I think your percentage of failure is greatly overestimated. How many places have you been in the world where there is not some sort of expat businesses doing well?




I was talking about Sosua.

[weyland]

Thats one reason why I truly admire the Brits. From such a small island and population (relative) they have an adventurous spirit and drive to go out into the world and stake their claim. And without all the gov't rules and regulations (read: taxes) that they have to adhere to back in Old Blimey.

Plus ... they can be funny as hell in their company when having a few pints!
What a wise and humane man you are! Change "Brits" to "English" and be my friend for life!

[gdogg]

I was talking about Sosua.

And talking correctly! Jimmy's not talking about the world or even the rest of the island.

[Seville]

I am glad this thread was started. I am failing totally. Who will volunteer to set up a network of collecting boxes along the North Coast for my benefit? Those wishing to donate in US$ four figures please PM me for my PayPal account.

CAUTION: do not hand your donation to an ugly, deranged guy who hangs at many popular monger spots in Sosúa such as Black Box and Rocky's and tries to bum drinks off guys by claiming to be my son.

My real son will be a future President of Haïti. I just need ISOC's specialist in the subject (ErikS) to train him in the necessary mooning skills.

I think you should put a flaca Haitiana on every street corner holding a bed pan for people to drop donations into. Your "real" son? Is that the little retard you are always telling me about? I doubt you will ever collect enough money to buy an election for him. However the possibility does exist for your caregiver to "see the light", as my former novia did, and return to her previous job. No doubt she could, one day, accumulate enough money to buy an election for her little retard provided she does not waste any of it on medical bills for prolonging you life.

[Hoseman]

It sounds like a better plan if you have fairly deep pockets or substantial savings would be to just budget that money out per month over years to live off than to invest in a business on a roll of the dice there.It helps if you have a steady income.My biggest problem is the lack of things to do here but that is one of the things taht comes with living in Small Towns.I spend way too much Money on Fucking and drinking poor me.If my last 1 1/2 would have been caught on film.Awww man most people would not beleve it if I told it lots of times it comes across as bragging but it is just talking about what I do I don't have much to talk about far as the States are concerned because I don't live there it sounds like you are talking about Brian.

[Hoseman]

I think your percentage of failure is greatly overestimated. How many places have you been in the world where there is not some sort of expat businesses doing well?

You can't go to the most remote places on the planet without running into an English or Irish pub for example. There are plenty of expat owned bars/restaurants/guest houses that do a decent business and have repeat customers year after year. Plenty of people fail at business in their own country too. How many failed businesses are there in NYC in a given year?

You were recently in Thailand. Did you see all those expat owned businesses, bars and guest houses primarilty, that were doing good and steady and repeat business. Sure, there are slow seasons during the year and times can be a bit tough. But that is always the case in the hospitality business.

You have to remember Jimmy, a person who ventures out away from his home to start a new life in another country, to take that leap of faith, must have supreme confidence in themselves to make it work. There will be failures of course, if it was that easy, everyone would be doing it. But to simply dismiss nearly 100% of expats as failures in a business venture is to underestimate their desire and determination.

I always try to support those expats who made the move and made themselves a new life. Whether it is buying a drink in their bar, a meal in their restaurant or a room at their guest house. Plus, they are a great source of information about the area where they live. That can be a tremendous help if one is a newbie.

Thats one reason why I truly admire the Brits. From such a small island and population (relative) they have an adventurous spirit and drive to go out into the world and stake their claim. And without all the gov't rules and regulations (read: taxes) that they have to adhere to back in Old Blimey.

Plus...they can be funny as hell in their company when having a few pints!I don't want to get into a history less on this one.I was almost tempted.

[ROVER]

You have to remember Jimmy, a person who ventures out away from his home to start a new life in another country, to take that leap of faith, must have supreme confidence in themselves to make it work. There will be failures of course, if it was that easy, everyone would be doing it. But to simply dismiss nearly 100% of expats as failures in a business venture is to underestimate their desire and determination.

Thats one reason why I truly admire the Brits. From such a small island and population (relative) they have an adventurous spirit and drive to go out into the world and stake their claim. And without all the gov't rules and regulations (read: taxes) that they have to adhere to back in Old Blimey.

Plus...they can be funny as hell in their company when having a few pints!


What a wise and humane man you are! Change "Brits" to "English" and be my friend for life!


Oh my god !!! :eek: He doesn't need to be pumped up any more than he already is :confused: You have any idea what you just did (LOL). :rofl:

[Jonew1]

I wouldent mind trying to start a place like passions there in sosua... i think it would be awsome. im just not sure what all it would take or where to start looking

[Mr. Smooth]

What a wise and humane man you are! Change "Brits" to "English" and be my friend for life!

Ahhh, weyland. I actually was thinking that you might comment about the "Brits" thing after I posted. We have gone down that road before. For you sir, I will acquience to your request and refer to my British mates as "English".

Of course, I did that with one guy, a former British Royal Marine, and he upbraided me for calling him "English". He said in a rather demanding tone, "I am Welsh". I can't seem to win. :rolleyes:

[Mr. Smooth]

I was talking about Sosua.

Point taken Jimmy. With Sosua, you really only have the beach and one main drag in town. Not too many options with the desirable foot traffic to make a go of it. But I think if an expat has very limited or no business acumen, as you have said before, he is just throwing money away.

[greydread]

What's up fellas,

Every time I go to Sosua now I see an ex-pat that seems nearly homeless now. When I first met him hanging out at NG he seemed to be doing well for himself and that he had an online hustle that was allowing him to live well there.

Some guys move to DR or other countries to enjoy the good life on comfortable pensions or reasonable cash reserves. Some relocate with business plans that don't always work out, or without a real plan, help the wrong people, get suckered for their stash or for whatever reason end up down and out and broke.

Some don't want to go home because they don't want to return to the US feeling like a failure embarrassed.

Do you know any ex-pats like this? Do you throw a few pesos their direction when visiting or sasy fuck em they CAN move back or have family somewhere or should've never moved without better plans, and are better off than most locales?



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzfKnpg1bp0


Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth

[Seville]

What a wise and humane man you are! Change "Brits" to "English" and be my friend for life!

In your case that could be a pretty short friendship Pops.

[el toro]

Thanks all for your input. I actually am reading E-Myth since it was mentioned yesterday.

The one ex-pat that I was thinking of when I started this thread was running (supposedly) an online trading business (hope I didn't blow up his spot).

I guess with an online business it's event more about what's inside a man that determines his success more so than physical location. Even though the same still applies to a large degree with offline business.

Thanks again bros.

[insular]

I don't know about everyone else but for me, I wouldn't move
somewhere out of the country without a fixed monthly income.
Either a 401k or pention. And I really have no need to start a
business or working some job when I am retired. But I guess
that says something about me, because I wouldn't move out
of my country to a "playground" until I was retired and well
enough off to do so.

[insular]

And I guess for the record, I would like to be an Ex-pat
one day, somewhere in Asia!

[whynotme]

And I guess for the record, I would like to be an Ex-pat
one day, somewhere in Asia!
:bigthumbup::bigthumbup::bigthumbup:

[TC]

And I guess for the record, I would like to be an Ex-pat
one day, somewhere in Asia!

Me too! Complying with visa rules by splitting time between Pattaya and A/C!

[Jimmydr]

Me too! Complying with visa rules by splitting time between Pattaya and A/C!



So you plan on living there one day. Will you bother to speak the language?:surprised:

[TC]

So you plan on living there one day. Will you bother to speak the language?:surprised:

Actually, I shouldn't jump the gun. I don't know where I plan to end up, but I could think of worse places. There will be many factors besides mongering.

I think it's helpful to speak at least a little bit of the language no matter where you live, although I find English goes a long way in both places.

[Mr. Smooth]

And I guess for the record, I would like to be an Ex-pat
one day, somewhere in Asia!

You will have a lot of company!

[3somefan]

I don't know if I technically fall under the "ex-pat" title or not really... but as many of you know, I moved to Cali, Colombia back in July of last year. I came with some savings and another small source of residual income, but really, everything I have gotten here so far, has been by me working. I have taught English here and it has more than paid the bills. I recently switched institutes and am currently working for the largest institute in Colombia. It is an international institute with over 600 locations worldwide. I am living fairly comfortable NOW. There were some bumps along the way, but I managed to get through them.

I won't go into what exactly I have or make income-wise, but let's say that a single person here in Cali, can live very comfortably on an income of say 2 million pesos per month (close to $1k).

Along with my new job, I also give private lessons and make a nice additional income from that.

I have a few ideas for businesses here and actually know quite a few foreigners, AND Colombians that have successful businesses here. I have a Canadian friend (born in Canada and lived his whole life there, but was born to Colombian parents there), who teaches French here and also has a internet thing going as well. He is doing very well.

It can be done...

[Jimmydr]

I won't go into what exactly I have or make income-wise, but let's say that a single person here in Cali, can live very comfortably on an income of say 2 million pesos per month (close to $1k).




Well an apartment in a safe area in Medellin runs at least $650 a month so how safe is your area? What is your rent?

[Jimmydr]

I have a few ideas for businesses here and actually know quite a few foreigners, AND Colombians that have successful businesses here. I have a Canadian friend (born in Canada and lived his whole life there, but was born to Colombian parents there), who teaches French here and also has a internet thing going as well. He is doing very well.

It can be done...


I would think that there would be many 1,000's that have successful business in Cali.:rolleyes:

[DASBOOTY]

Peter was there before we got there. He was living there 20 years. He is not one of us nor are the owners from Baileys.

The baileys people have been in the restaurant business for many years, so they say.

Lets revisit this in 10 years and you can tell me how many of the guys that you met on monger trips succeeded.

The Happy Bar, at the end of the strip, is apparently owned by an ex-pat and his Dominican girl friend.

I noticed when I was in Sosua last month that there were very few people in the place. It used to be popular at one time. I think it has been affected by the crackdown in a major way.

But then, what do I know. It seems Seacrets is always empty (more bartenders than customers:rofl:) and it is still in business.

[Jimmydr]

But then, what do I know. It seems Seacrets is always empty (more bartenders than customers:rofl:) and it is still in business.


Its called money laundrying.

[3somefan]

I would think that there would be many 1,000's that have successful business in Cali.:rolleyes:

My Colombian friend has a daycare, and his sister has a successful construction company here in Cali. They are also opening a language institute here in the south in the next 6 months.

My wife's two cousin owe a detailing company. They started with one shop in Puerto Tejada, and now, they have opened a new in Cali.

My wife's aunt and uncle own a sewing and alterations shop in Cali, they are literally so busy that they are working 7 days a week.

I can go on... I was just saying that it can be done. :)

[Jimmydr]

My Colombian friend has a daycare, and his sister has a successful construction company here in Cali. They are also opening a language institute here in the south in the next 6 months.

My wife's two cousin owe a detailing company. They started with one shop in Puerto Tejada, and now, they have opened a new in Cali.

My wife's aunt and uncle own a sewing and alterations shop in Cali, they are literally so busy that they are working 7 days a week.

I can go on... I was just saying that it can be done. :)


You are talking about business people who lived their whole lives there. I live in NY and we have many millions of business people here.

[3somefan]

Well an apartment in a safe area in Medellin runs at least $650 a month so how safe is your area? What is your rent?


The area is called Valle Lili, it's one of the safest areas in Cali. Rent with the administration is $700,000 COP a month.

[3somefan]

You are talking about business people who lived their whole lives there. I live in NY and we have many millions of business people here.

very true, That is why in the original post, I said AND Colombians.

[Jimmydr]

The area is called Valle Lili, it's one of the safest areas in Cali. Rent with the administration is $700,000 COP a month.


I think that you layed out the expenses to be about $520 a month.:iconTU::iconTU:

Its about $800 a month in Medellin.

[Jimmydr]

very true, That is why in the original post, I said AND Colombians.


So what is your monthly food expense?

[3somefan]

So what is your monthly food expense?

Well it has taken sometime for me to get my body used to the Colombian food, but to feed all 3 of us, we spend on average about $300,000 COP on food. A lot of that is fruit and vegetables that we go buy at a local galleria, which is much cheaper.

If I was on my own, I could do it for probably around $150-$200,000 COP.

We go out to eat usually one time a week. So that really cuts costs down and we also get meat from Puerto Tejada, where her parent's live. The quality is just as good as the meat here in Cali, but about 40% cheaper.

[Jimmydr]

Well it has taken sometime for me to get my body used to the Colombian food, but to feed all 3 of us, we spend on average about $300,000 COP on food. A lot of that is fruit and vegetables that we go buy at a local galleria, which is much cheaper.

If I was on my own, I could do it for probably around $150-$200,000 COP.

We go out to eat usually one time a week. So that really cuts costs down and we also get meat from Puerto Tejada, where her parent's live. The quality is just as good as the meat here in Cali, but about 40% cheaper.


So what type of work does she do? The bus is 1,500 in Medellin. How much is it there?

[3somefan]

So what type of work does she do? The bus is 1,500 in Medellin. How much is it there?

The wife works as a full-time English and French professor at a collegio, and she also works part-time as a English professor for a language institute.

Together, we make roughly over 4 million pesos a month.

The MIO costs the same here ... $1,500 COP.

[Jimmydr]

The wife works as a full-time English and French professor at a collegio, and she also works part-time as a English professor for a language institute.

Together, we make roughly over 4 million pesos a month.

The MIO costs the same here ... $1,500 COP.


I think I have all the facts now. $2,200 a month.

thanks.

[psriches]

All the ex pats, I met in the DR, seem to be doing really well. Jihad, Lou, Fred, Rob and Serra and the Cubana cafe. They all are business owners. Now Brazil is a different story. The DR welcomes foreign business, but Brazil is so corrupt, their goal is to crush foreign business. In 15 years of travel, I only saw one foreign business, exist longer than one year, and in the end, they got him too. I saw ex pats homeless and living in the favela's 8 deep with whores. Guys would go there, get turned out by the girls and quit their 6 figure job, and when they ran out of money, the whores would dump them. Its tough, one night you see a guy mongering in Help and a few years later you see him, begging for food on the streets of Brazil.But every single one of these ex-pats said they would get out if the right offer came along. They are all just breaking even with their DR business but have other sources of income.

[Jimmydr]

But every single one of these ex-pats said they would get out if the right offer came along. They are all just breaking even with their DR business but have other sources of income.


Exactly, they have their Pensions.

[Hoseman]

But every single one of these ex-pats said they would get out if the right offer came along. They are all just breaking even with their DR business but have other sources of income.Right on point here it becomes basically something to do for lots of folks.

[DEPUTY DAWG]

But every single one of these ex-pats said they would get out if the right offer came along. They are all just breaking even with their DR business but have other sources of income.


Right on point here it becomes basically something to do for lots of folks.

Absolutely correct and after talking to fred before a lot of guys on this board knew who he was... (glad he's better known now) He'd get out not to mention he talks how he has to work that much harder to succeed there because they have repeatedly tried to run him out. Look at where he's at now compared to where he started out.... ACROSS FROM CLASICO/ CLUB59!!!!

[ROVER]

The area is called Valle Lili, it's one of the safest areas in Cali. Rent with the administration is $700,000 COP a month.


What do you mean by " Rent with the administration " ??? :confused:

[TC]

What a wise and humane man you are! Change "Brits" to "English" and be my friend for life!

What if he was referring to Great Britain as a whole, and not just to England?

[TC]

I thought the topic was ex-pats that fail, not mongers that fail. You are right about one thing. The stupid ones will fail running a buisness - monger or not.

Stupid people rarely succeed at running a business, but many smart people have failed at it. It's not an easy thing to do.

[3somefan]

What do you mean by " Rent with the administration " ??? :confused:

Most apartments or condos here will require a administration fee. This covers security, grounds and building maintenance, a pool area, etc. The better the area, the higher the price. For example, we pay $580,000 in actual rent. Then we also pay $120,000 for the administration fee.

[BCell]

........

[el_papi_chew_low]

What's up fellas,

Every time I go to Sosua now I see an ex-pat that seems nearly homeless now. When I first met him hanging out at NG he seemed to be doing well for himself and that he had an online hustle that was allowing him to live well there.

Some guys move to DR or other countries to enjoy the good life on comfortable pensions or reasonable cash reserves. Some relocate with business plans that don't always work out, or without a real plan, help the wrong people, get suckered for their stash or for whatever reason end up down and out and broke.

Some don't want to go home because they don't want to return to the US feeling like a failure embarrassed.

Do you know any ex-pats like this? Do you throw a few pesos their direction when visiting or sasy fuck em they CAN move back or have family somewhere or should've never moved without better plans, and are better off than most locales?

Sosua has changed a lot as you know, bro. Seems like there are more so-called expats living in Sosua and POP than ever.

You hit the nail on the head. I hear stories of dudes that are living on a shoe string and burn bridges. I can't hate on guys that are trying to make it work however best they can so I wish them all the best. Some are probably escaping from things and people they left behind in the states more than living in the DR for a better lifestyle, but so be it. To each his own.

[drdreamer]

Sosua has changed a lot as you know, bro. Seems like there are more so-called expats living in Sosua and POP than ever.

You hit the nail on the head. I hear stories of dudes that are living on a shoe string and burn bridges. I can't hate on guys that are trying to make it work however best they can so I wish them all the best. Some are probably escaping from things and people they left behind in the states more than living in the DR for a better lifestyle, but so be it. To each his own.

Or Canada......:rolleyes:

[yayow]

About 98% will fail.

wow just saw this thread, started in 2011! I know many ex-pats myself Included 98% is a crazy number and is nowhere true in my experiences, of course some do better than others, but that is just life. Many have assimilated themselves so well, you would never know about them, they are living their lives happily. Of course many that don't make it, never should have tried in the first place, they couldn't make it where they were before, so why would you think they could make it in a foreign country? Losers are losers, no matter where they move, sorry to be so blunt but that is the reality.

I would say that in my experiences about 85% if not slightly more make it, those who don't, weren't seriously someone who you would consider being able to make it anywhere. I know so many ex-pats living successfully, here that it is not even funny, and that includes Europeans, Canadians etc., I will continue to read this thread, to read what has been said, but in my opinion, this is not a serious topic, and reading 98% will fail, I am just scratching my head:confused::confused:

I have just read the first two, responses and am already amazed! But continue..........

[el_papi_chew_low]

Of course many that don't make it, never should have tried in the first place, they couldn't make it where they were before, so why would you think they could make it in a foreign country? Losers are losers, no matter where they move, sorry to be so blunt but that is the reality.


I think this about sums it up.

[PapiQueRico]

I had a biz in a foreign country in the late '80's. Did pretty well.

[Hunter]

wow just saw this thread, started in 2011! I know many ex-pats myself Included 98% is a crazy number and is nowhere true in my experiences, of course some do better than others, but that is just life. Many have assimilated themselves so well, you would never know about them, they are living their lives happily. Of course many that don't make it, never should have tried in the first place, they couldn't make it where they were before, so why would you think they could make it in a foreign country? Losers are losers, no matter where they move, sorry to be so blunt but that is the reality.

I would say that in my experiences about 85% if not slightly more make it, those who don't, weren't seriously someone who you would consider being able to make it anywhere. I know so many ex-pats living successfully, here that it is not even funny, and that includes Europeans, Canadians etc., I will continue to read this thread, to read what has been said, but in my opinion, this is not a serious topic, and reading 98% will fail, I am just scratching my head:confused::confused:

I have just read the first two, responses and am already amazed! But continue..........

I am with Jimmy....I think he was referring to businessess not just living on a pension. There is HUGE difference between the 2...

98% of businesses by ex-pats in Sosua have failed....lol..maybe that is high but not by much....

How many businesses actually work out in Sosua?? - the Italian in New Garden is about it.

I would agree any body that has a penison or source of income is going to make it in a foreign country....But if you had to JUST rely on working or running a business that percentage goes WAY down....

[yayow]

I am with Jimmy....I think he was referring to businessess not just living on a pension. There is HUGE difference between the 2...

98% of businesses by ex-pats in Sosua have failed....lol..maybe that is high but not by much....

How many businesses actually work out in Sosua?? - the Italian in New Garden is about it.

I would agree any body that has a penison or source of income is going to make it in a foreign country....But if you had to JUST rely on working or running a business that percentage goes WAY down....

I know many ex-pats that are successful, can't really speak about Sosua, as I haven't lived there in over 8 years, and remember ex-pats as I said doesn't only refer to Americans. I would say the majority of successful businesses in Boca chica are run by foreigners. Many Italians, some Germans and Canadians a few Americans and other nationalities. I also know of successful foreigners running or who have ran businessess in Sosua as well.

If you really think about it you will too, even the hotel you guys stay in, when visiting Boca Chica the Garant is owned by a foreigner a Canadian, and he is in the process of expanding. I would go as far as to say the majority of successful businesses in Boca are owned by ex-pats, foreigners.

Also you say Jimmy was referring to businessess, but best of my knowledge that was not what the thread was about. It was if I am not mistaken about ex -pats living in country that failed, some begging on the street.


Just sayin'

[Hunter]

I know many ex-pats that are successful, can't really speak about Sosua, as I haven't lived there in over 8 years, and remember ex-pats as I said doesn't only refer to Americans. I would say the majority of successful businesses in Boca chica are run by foreigners. Many Italians, some Germans and Canadians a few Americans and other nationalities. I also know of successful foreigners running or who have ran businessess in Sosua as well.

If you really think about it you will too, even the hotel you guys stay in, when visiting Boca Chica the Garant is owned by a foreigner a Canadian, and he is in the process of expanding. I would go as far as to say the majority of successful businesses in Boca are owned by ex-pats, foreigners.

Also you say Jimmy was referring to businessess, but best of my knowledge that was not what the thread was about. It was if I am not mistaken about ex -pats living in country that failed, some begging on the street.


Just sayin'

I just saw Jimmy highlighing the relocating business plans on his 98% fail comment...It just seems so many Sosua businesses fail looking from the outside. I will bet though its not easy running a business in a foreign country. And how much money do they actually make....:confused:

[el_papi_chew_low]

98% of businesses by ex-pats in Sosua have failed....lol..maybe that is high but not by much....



Is it possible that a greater percentage of expat businesses are doing OK now as opposed to before? I only ask because it seems like there are some pretty good restaurants in the Sosua/Cabarete area. The 2 most popular spots in Sosua, Rumba and Clasicos, are owned by foreigners no?

Anyone know some of the big winners/losers of late?

[questner]

I have not yet seen even one business book open. Show me the numbers. Show me ROE, cash flow etc. on real operating leveraged businesses, not laundromats, leases or real estate rentals.

[Westy]

Damn -- I can see the whole temptation of running a "dream business" in Tropical Paradise. It might resemble Herman Wouk's Don't Stop The Carnival ... which, I must confess, I haven't read; but the reviews suggest that it mirrors the situation of being a beach-bar baron in a third-world tropical resort town, like Sosua in the DomRep.

I would rather model my retirement-life on Seville, as he used to represent himself ... living on my pension (as he did, or does), and occasionally "employing (him)self" in an artistic pastime that benefits not only the "jeune filles" that he barbers, but the monger-population of Sosua at large.

[JDR]

Damn -- I can see the whole temptation of running a "dream business" in Tropical Paradise. It might resemble Herman Wouk's Don't Stop The Carnival ... which, I must confess, I haven't read; but the reviews suggest that it mirrors the situation of being a beach-bar baron in a third-world tropical resort town, like Sosua in the DomRep.

I would rather model my retirement-life on Seville, as he used to represent himself ... living on my pension (as he did, or does), and occasionally "employing (him)self" in an artistic pastime that benefits not only the "jeune filles" that he barbers, but the monger-population of Sosua at large.

No way am I moving to a place to make $1,000 or less a month while working 70 hours a week.

[JDR]

I have not yet seen even one business book open. Show me the numbers. Show me ROE, cash flow etc. on real operating leveraged businesses, not laundromats, leases or real estate rentals.

Guys that know about that would never open there.

[JDR]

I am with Jimmy....I think he was referring to businessess not just living on a pension. There is HUGE difference between the 2...

98% of businesses by ex-pats in Sosua have failed....lol..maybe that is high but not by much....

How many businesses actually work out in Sosua?? - the Italian in New Garden is about it.

I would agree any body that has a penison or source of income is going to make it in a foreign country....But if you had to JUST rely on working or running a business that percentage goes WAY down....

How many times we see some sick ex pat asking for help with medical expenses?

[JDR]

wow just saw this thread, started in 2011! I know many ex-pats myself Included 98% is a crazy number and is nowhere true in my experiences, of course some do better than others, but that is just life. Many have assimilated themselves so well, you would never know about them, they are living their lives happily. Of course many that don't make it, never should have tried in the first place, they couldn't make it where they were before, so why would you think they could make it in a foreign country? Losers are losers, no matter where they move, sorry to be so blunt but that is the reality.

I would say that in my experiences about 85% if not slightly more make it, those who don't, weren't seriously someone who you would consider being able to make it anywhere. I know so many ex-pats living successfully, here that it is not even funny, and that includes Europeans, Canadians etc., I will continue to read this thread, to read what has been said, but in my opinion, this is not a serious topic, and reading 98% will fail, I am just scratching my head:confused::confused:

I have just read the first two, responses and am already amazed! But continue..........

You have a pension and if I recall, you worked 12 or more hours a day to succeed?

[PapiQueRico]

I wonder how many of the guys who fail in business in new countries would have also failed in their own countries? How many of them have real knowledge and experience in running a hotel or restaurant or bar when they start their place in Sosua or Boca or MDE?

Small biz is tough everywhere. The mistake many make is in thinking that because they come from relatively wealthy countries they are better prepared than locals in third world countries. Most likely their only advantage, and it is a big advantage, is that they are probably better capitalized than the locals starting out.

[BlueDevil]

I'm in my 5th year of living in Colombia. And like I tell every prospective ex-pat thinking about Colombia, "If I had to earn a living here, I would not be living here." Convoluted governmental requirements, whimsical business practices and an unpredictable market that is hard to figure out are among some of the reasons I would not venture into this territory. And for those thinking that they will cater to an ex-pat or foreign tourist crowd, there just is not enough of them here to "vale la pena." Of the few ex-pat businesses that I know of, its the Europeans who have been most successful... the dyed in the wool North American gringos not so much. Perhaps, Europeans are more flexible in their approach to business and life in general, and adapt to their new countries better than most gringos. Gringos like to critique and change things, rather than accept and conform.

[Hunter]

I'm in my 5th year of living in Colombia. And like I tell every prospective ex-pat thinking about Colombia, "If I had to earn a living here, I would not be living here." Convoluted governmental requirements, whimsical business practices and an unpredictable market that is hard to figure out are among some of the reasons I would not venture into this territory. And for those thinking that they will cater to an ex-pat or foreign tourist crowd, there just is not enough of them here to "vale la pena." Of the few ex-pat businesses that I know of, its the Europeans who have been most successful... the dyed in the wool North American gringos not so much. Perhaps, Europeans are more flexible in their approach to business and life in general, and adapt to their new countries better than most gringos. Gringos like to critique and change things, rather than accept and conform.

i.e. Bug :wink::lol::lol:

[yayow]

You have a pension and if I recall, you worked 12 or more hours a day to succeed?

True that, but I opened the business for a specific reason, no one never really understood that, I was almost begged by a few to do it, I didn't need to, but once I did do it, I was going to give it my all. My problem was an ex, I fore saw opening it for my daughter and in a couple of years giving it to her when it would be basically running itself, and only a beach bar, closing at night fall, like what the majority do on the beach, that would have been very simple and inexpensive to operate. Reason why I originally hired the ex as a manager . But her hatred of me and jealousy of the sexy chicas working there, caused me to fire her, which caused many more problems.

The Duarte bar, again a second thought, where the guy who was my ex partner wanted to get involved, I said no originally because I knew what it would entail, and I knew I didn't want to nor could I invest that amount of time and effort, plus I didn't need to do it. After promises from him and begging by others , I did it. Again when promises weren't met, I had to get rid of him, and go it alone which caused me to work those hours, because I wasn't going to allow it to fail.

So next step was to sell and get back to my life, without losing money, and of course once you make that decision it takes time to find the right buyer. It is a process. So my odyssey is more complex than you know, but not so different than many others. Was an interesting experience and I learned a lot. Actually have a few feelers out for another place, but in the capital not in a resort town, told my girlfriend if we are still doing well, may put up the start up money, and put her into something, so she can make it, and depend on herself. If I decide to do that, my involvement would or should be limited to the start up phase.

[whynotme]

No way am I moving to a place to make $1,000 or less a month while working 70 hours a week.

I don't get out of bed for less than $1,000 :o

[weyland]

Gringos like to critique and change things, rather than accept and conform.
I am aware of the origin of the word "gringo" but in the DR all non-latin whites are called "gringos". And North American and European blacks too, I believe. Presumably not the case in Colombia? Not sure about other Latin countries.

[el_papi_chew_low]

You have a pension and if I recall

I know guys get tired of people talking about the way things used to be, especially when it comes to places like Sosua and Rio. In that same regard, many don't understand what a great thing a pension is and what it allows because they are much less common now, especially in the private sector. Not having to think about making money while living in another country makes a HUGE dif. Of course people have other sources of income and saving, but I would think the overwhelming percentage of expats living in places like the DR are doing so on a pension, but I could be wrong. I agree with others in terms of not wanting to depend on Dominicans for income. After seeing guys get thrown in jail and kicked out of the country because of business dealings, I would not want to be on that radar. That's not why I'm here.

I think Señor Tranquilo bar would do well on the North Coast but I know it ain't gonna happen?

[XXX]

I know guys get tired of people talking about the way things used to be, especially when it comes to places like Sosua and Rio. In that same regard, many don't understand what a great thing a pension is and what it allows because they are much less common now, especially in the private sector. Not having to think about making money while living in another country makes a HUGE dif. Of course people have other sources of income and saving, but I would think the overwhelming percentage of expats living in places like the DR are doing so on a pension, but I could be wrong. I agree with others in terms of not wanting to depend on Dominicans for income. After seeing guys get thrown in jail and kicked out of the country because of business dealings, I would not want to be on that radar. That's not why I'm here.

I think Señor Tranquilo bar would do well on the North Coast but I know it ain't gonna happen?


Although I already have an idea on this,,,,,

I was wondering what your opinion would be,,, on the amount needed on a monthly pension to live decently there ??

Also, what would be the minimum " Budget " amount needed to get by,,,,,,,,,

Just curious,,,,as my "pension eligible" days begin in March,,,,,,,,,,,

I know these amounts vary depending on how you want to live,,,and where you want to live,,,,,,

[el_papi_chew_low]

Although I already have an idea on this,,,,,

I was wondering what your opinion would be,,, on the amount needed on a monthly pension to live decently there ??

Also, what would be the minimum " Budget " amount needed to get by,,,,,,,,,

Just curious,,,,as my "pension eligible" days begin in March,,,,,,,,,,,

I know these amounts vary depending on how you want to live,,,and where you want to live,,,,,,

I'm probably the wrong person to ask because I'm not living off of a pension so others with a pension may want to weigh in on this. As you know, it depends on your lifestyle and where in the DR you chose to live.

Others may feel differently and this is not how I live, but I think a person could live on $1,000 a month in certain parts of the DR. I know a guy that probably lives off a budget like this.

If you live in Santo Domingo, you can go through money pretty fast because there is much more there and things are more expensive so your budget would probably be much more than a G a month, but others that live in SD may want to weigh in on this.

I also feel like food, in general, is a lot more expensive than I anticipated, but I like to consume a lot of imports like almond milk, organic spinach etc.

Whatever your aftertax pension is, you can probably find a lifestyle that fits your budget here.

[camaro1257]

Although I already have an idea on this,,,,,

I was wondering what your opinion would be,,, on the amount needed on a monthly pension to live decently there ??

Also, what would be the minimum " Budget " amount needed to get by,,,,,,,,,

Just curious,,,,as my "pension eligible" days begin in March,,,,,,,,,,,

I know these amounts vary depending on how you want to live,,,and where you want to live,,,,,,

My first few months I spent way too much money between maintaining my US home and going back and forth to the US frequently. Now that I am settled for the past couple of months I am averaging $2500.00 a month, if I can keep that figure I will be very happy...damn I have friends that spend that in a week or two vacation...lol!

[BlueDevil]

I am aware of the origin of the word "gringo" but in the DR all non-latin whites are called "gringos". And North American and European blacks too, I believe. Presumably not the case in Colombia? Not sure about other Latin countries.

Yes, most Colombians make a distinction between Gringos and Europeans. Any white person living north of the Rio Grande in North America is automatically considered a gringo. A German, Frenchman, Brit, Italian, etc. is a European. Colombians also group people according to race... regardless of their origin, citizenship or residence. For better or for worse, stereotyping is practiced freely in Colombia. It is what it is in Colombia. Being "gringo" evokes a degree of passion in Colombians... and, not always good. Colombians react towards Europeans in a more neutral (somewhat positive) manner.

Normally, when a Colombian starts prying into my business, and wants to know where I'm from, we tell him or her that I'm a "citizen of the world" with German and Costa Rican bloodlines. That usually disarms them. They may even ask me to say a few words in German... so I rattle off a few sentences and they smile and say, "Muy bien." When we moved out of the city last year to a cool little pueblo not too far from the airport, we rented a house in a brand new development. After we found what we were looking for, my wife (a paisa) asked about the lease requirements. Our agent told us straight-up that the agency did not like renting to gringos. My wife convinced our agent to give me the benefit of the doubt, and she accepted our application. The next day, we hand-carried a written vouch on my behalf from a highly-respected client of the agency. It was a slam dunk, and our lease was approved.

[Westy]

My first few months I spent way too much money between maintaining my US home and going back and forth to the US frequently. Now that I am settled for the past couple of months I am averaging $2500.00 a month, if I can keep that figure I will be very happy...damn I have friends that spend that in a week or two vacation...lol!
That's the point of a vacation. I'm only there a week or two, and I want to live it up - I'm staying in a hotel (at $70-100 per night) rather than leasing an apartment (for maybe $500-800 per month). I'm eating all my meals at restaurants, rather than cooking for myself. If I want a car, I'll have to rent it by the day; if I don't, I'll take cabs and they can be expensive. Then add in "entertainment expenses," and I'm buying a lot of "entertainment" because I'm only in Hooker Heaven for the week (or two), then it's back to Sex Prison till the next trip ... and so forth, and so on. And I'm spending even more than the average vacationer, what with me getting "tanked" in the mornings and afternoons, too ... :rofl:

http://news.insearchofchicas.org/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=127385&d=1453759947

I know that I wouldn't live in the DR the way I vacation in the DR; it would be much the same life as I live now, though of course I'd spend more time on the beach and less time on the computer.

[The Sage]

A basic budget of $1,800 per month would work in Sosua provided you brought a vehicle for cash. That would include about $400 a month in drinking expense. Everything above that point would be the cost of pussy which cold be substantial. Even if your getting it in for 2000 pesos TLN you could easy spend $1000 - $1500 a month on pussy.

[JDR]

A basic budget of $1,800 per month would work in Sosua provided you brought a vehicle for cash. That would include about $400 a month in drinking expense. Everything above that point would be the cost of pussy which cold be substantial. Even if your getting it in for 2000 pesos TLN you could easy spend $1000 - $1500 a month on pussy.

I don't understand why its 2,000 if you live there.

They have down time. Take that??

[The Sage]

It really depends what your taste is. You can lock up a chick and basically only fuck her and get off much cheaper, but of course you're hurting for variety. My example was mostly based on pulling from the hoe pool. If you like lookers who have no problem finding customers, which sadly I do, you have do pay more because at 2k you're paying her 1/2 of what she could make. That's s fair price that will accomplish the most important thing, which is keeping her out of your face when she sees you with another chick.




I don't understand why its 2,000 if you live there.

They have down time. Take that??

[JDR]

It really depends what your taste is. You can lock up a chick and basically only fuck her and get off much cheaper, but of course you're hurting for variety. My example was mostly based on pulling from the hoe pool. If you like lookers who have no problem finding customers, which sadly I do, you have do pay more because at 2k you're paying her 1/2 of what she could make. That's s fair price that will accomplish the most important thing, which is keeping her out of your face when she sees you with another chick.

But do all those chicas that you like have non stop business?

Is there no down time for them?


Spending 2,000 a session 10 sessions a month adds up.

[el_papi_chew_low]

I know many who live on their social security checks, I think for most that is about $1,250 a month.

Like I was saying, I know a guy that is 37, does no p4p, doesn't drink and has 2 gym memberships. I think his budget is about this on average since his rent is only $300 for a 1 bedroom. He goes on cheap Dominican type dates like the movies with everything centered around heading back to his pad. He doesn't drive but uses publicos and cabs when needed.

[yayow]

Bottom line to me is this and it is quite simple, at least to me. I couldn't live or even come close to living the way I do, in the US. Talk about struggling. That is why I thought, when reading the first two entries of this thread it was a joke. Based on my former line of business, I saw many senior citizens struggling to survive in the US, and using the same criteria of income or less, many senior citizens thriving in other countries, including the DR, which of course is my country of choice. I honestly think for every ex pat that you see struggling in the DR, you could multiply that number by quite a bit. And reading that 98% of ex pats will fail, or be begging for money, food etc., that is just ridiculous, and I know many ex pats in this country, and every month the numbers are increasing, there is a reason for that.

[JDR]

Like I was saying, I know a guy that is 37, does no p4p, doesn't drink and has 2 gym memberships. I think his budget is about this on average since his rent is only $300 for a 1 bedroom. He goes on cheap Dominican type dates like the movies with everything centered around heading back to his pad. He doesn't drive but uses publicos and cabs when needed.

So what happens if things change and he needs to leave?

[el_papi_chew_low]

So what happens if things change and he needs to leave? He needs to leave? How so?

[JDR]

He needs to leave? How so?

The peso drops to 30 where it once was or a bad President comes in. Just two examples. There were many in Cuba before Castro and they had to leave.

[el_papi_chew_low]

The peso drops to 30 where it once was or a bad President comes in. Just two examples. There were many in Cuba before Castro and they had to leave. If the peso drops to 30, we may all be out of here lol. He would be gone. I think everyone outside of the USA is benefiting now from a strong dollar. More than likely, Danilo will be re-elected.

But yes Jimmy, ceteris paribus!!

[JDR]

If the peso drops to 30, we may all be out of here lol. He would be gone. I think everyone outside of the USA is benefiting now from a strong dollar.

That won't last another 25 years. Another ression will hit within that period.

[psriches]

My first few months I spent way too much money between maintaining my US home and going back and forth to the US frequently. Now that I am settled for the past couple of months I am averaging $2500.00 a month, if I can keep that figure I will be very happy...damn I have friends that spend that in a week or two vacation...lol!I think this plays a major role in how we make it work on a retirement budget. What kind of expat do we plan to be? Are we permanent? Or maybe just a 5 to 6 month temporary expat living and paying for two different lives.

[The Sage]

My target has always been $3500 a month. At that level you should be sitting good with pussy galore and a visit to the states once a year to pick up those must have things you can't get on the island. I'm convinced you're better off with a steady who's not in the hoe game. You don't want a live in. What you need though is a go to girl. You need to find her outside of the game or you will find her in the game. A steady diet of sex only encounters wears thin after a while.

[el_papi_chew_low]

I think this plays a major role in how we make it work on a retirement budget. What kind of expat do we plan to be? Are we permanent? Or maybe just a 5 to 6 month temporary expat living and paying for two different lives.

I sold my house a few months before I moved here so when I came it was for good. I began to decrease my expenses immediately when I arrived based on rent, etc.

[Hunter]

That's pretty good. I pay about $350 a year.

Is that Dominican insurance or US insurance with a big company footing the bill?

[JDR]

My target has always been $3500 a month. At that level you should be sitting good with pussy galore and a visit to the states once a year to pick up those must have things you can't get on the island. I'm convinced you're better off with a steady who's not in the hoe game. You don't want a live in. What you need though is a go to girl. You need to find her outside of the game or you will find her in the game. A steady diet of sex only encounters wears thin after a while.

That will be my target. I plan to rent a spare room and pull in maybe $600 a month.

[The Sage]

I think for most of us all in is the only viable option.



I think this plays a major role in how we make it work on a retirement budget. What kind of expat do we plan to be? Are we permanent? Or maybe just a 5 to 6 month temporary expat living and paying for two different lives.

[el_papi_chew_low]

My target has always been $3500 a month. At that level you should be sitting good with pussy galore and a visit to The states once a year to pick up those must have things you can't get on the island. I'm convinced your better off with a steady who's not in the hoe game. You don't want a live in. What you need though is a go to girl. You need to find her outside of the game or you will find her in the game. A steady diet of sex only encounters wears thin after a while.

That is a good budget. Personally, I think you have the right idea. Life is short. If you are going to live here, its best to live good and not have a decrease in living standards. I like to take weekend trips to the capital to party and/or to beaches around the island and this cost. Once you get out of the tourist economy and into the local economy, you will be surprised at how much bang you can get for your buck. However, you may still feel the need to splurge from time to time to time.

[el_papi_chew_low]

Is that Dominican insurance or US insurance with a big company footing the bill? Not sure but I was turned onto it by someone that owns a business here and has it for his employees.

[el_papi_chew_low]

That won't last another 25 years. Another ression will hit within that period.

This may be true. Probably a good reason to have a COLA in your pension or whatever defined benefit you have. As long as its cheaper to live here and its still pussy paradise, I won't be moving back to the good old USA. I'll play the geographical arbitrage game and keep moving to other pussy paradises if things change here.

[yayow]

That won't last another 25 years. Another ression will hit within that period.


Probably neither will I. So what is your point?

Some say the world won't last another 25 years, so should I crawl up in a ball now! And stop living my life, now? GEEEEZ!

[Hunter]

Not sure but I was turned onto it by someone that owns a business here and has it for his employees.

i.e. Domincan Insurance......:wink:

[CentralNJDude]

Probably neither will I. So what is your point?

Some say the world won't last another 25 years, so should I crawl up in a ball now! And stop living my life, now? GEEEEZ!

You have some obligations to your familia so hard to crawl up and stop living.. :mrgreen:

Jimmy, the recession is already here, better move to Meddy quick..

[Westy]

Bottom line to me is this and it is quite simple, at least to me. I couldn't live or even come close to living the way I do, in the US. Talk about struggling. That is why I thought, when reading the first two entries of this thread it was a joke. Based on my former line of business, I saw many senior citizens struggling to survive in the US, and using the same criteria of income or less, many senior citizens thriving in other countries, including the DR, which of course is my country of choice. I honestly think for every ex pat that you see struggling in the DR, you could multiply that number by quite a bit. And reading that 98% of ex pats will fail, or be begging for money, food etc., that is just ridiculous, and I know many ex pats in this country, and every month the numbers are increasing, there is a reason for that.

AAAAAA-MENNN!!!

I did 36 years as a Federal "civil serpent," making maps for the military and later teaching mapmaking and related tradecraft in Defense Mapping School. I've got a Civil Service Retirement System pension, yeah, go ahead and hate on me ... and I live well within my means, in an expensive area (the Washington, DC suburbs). I live modestly, in a townhouse with a paid-off mortgage ... and I set aside enough, every month, that I can splurge every-so-often on a tropical vacation where the sun is warm, the sea is cool, the beer is cold, and the chicas are Hot, Hot, Hot!

Couple of days ago, the daily feed from "International Living" Magazine had a story about a couple who were traveling the world on a budget of $1250/month. How do they manage? Well, obviously, they're going to places where the cost-of-living is lower than what we're used to in the USA. They didn't mention the DR, but $1250/month, or $15,000 per year, is more than twice the DR's GDP of $5879 per capita in 2013. And IL runs stories on plenty of third-world destinations where the cost of living is low ... even if they're pushing real-estate deals with their 'partners' in those stories. (Las Terrenas, on the north coast of the DR, got a good bit of attention from them in recent months.)

Were I to sell my townhouse, bank the proceeds, and seek out a comfortable and convenient rental property in the DR - well, a search on LongTermLettings.com turned up quite a few rentals in the range of US$500/month, and a whale of a lot for less than US$1000/month ... and they are catering to gringos and Europeans who are doing their search on the Internet. I'd be surprised if you couldn't do better, on the ground in Puerto Plata or any number of other desirable locations along the coast. Yayow, Camaro, Seville (who I haven't seen online for a long while), you're living that life ... I haven't gotten there yet, but I've still got one "senior dependent" in the Washington, DC area who I don't want to abandon.

But I'm still interested, still hoping, still researching....

[camaro1257]

My target has always been $3500 a month. At that level you should be sitting good with pussy galore and a visit to the states once a year to pick up those must have things you can't get on the island. I'm convinced you're better off with a steady who's not in the hoe game. You don't want a live in. What you need though is a go to girl. You need to find her outside of the game or you will find her in the game. A steady diet of sex only encounters wears thin after a while.

...yesssssssur!

[JDR]

You have some obligations to your familia so hard to crawl up and stop living.. :mrgreen:

Jimmy, the recession is already here, better move to Meddy quick..

There is no recession. All bullshit they created to keep the people down.


I am in no rush to go anyplace.

[JDR]

Probably neither will I. So what is your point?

Some say the world won't last another 25 years, so should I crawl up in a ball now! And stop living my life, now? GEEEEZ!

You and me are at the end of our time. I would hate to be a 30 year old who at age 55 has to return to the US as a bum on the streets.

[Westy]

You and me are at the end of our time. I would hate to be a 30 year old who at age 55 has to return to the US as a bum on the streets.
I am perfectly content to be a 62-year-old with a pretty good FedGov pension. Even with that acknowledged, I hope my Dear Demented Auntie will still have something in her bank account when she "shuffles off this mortal coil." (Do we have a 'ghoulish' smilie?)

[JDR]

I love reading these threads. So much valuable information.


More and more baby boomers are depositing their social security checks in a foreign bank account and I think many of us are going to be following their footsteps when the time comes.

After all my years of traveling, I can say that I have more friends, associates, drinking buddies, whatever you want to call them, than what I have here in California. Except for immediate family members, there is nothing holding me back from choosing another country to live when I retire. I would prefer a destination where I could enjoy a bit of cameraderie with the guys as well as a bit of slap and tickle with the girls.

Down to under 5 years to go for me.

With Air B &B it will be great.


Rent out the spare room and get extra money.

[MrHappy]

I don't know if I technically fall under the "ex-pat" title or not really... but as many of you know, I moved to Cali, Colombia back in July of last year. I came with some savings and another small source of residual income, but really, everything I have gotten here so far, has been by me working. I have taught English here and it has more than paid the bills. I recently switched institutes and am currently working for the largest institute in Colombia. It is an international institute with over 600 locations worldwide. I am living fairly comfortable NOW. There were some bumps along the way, but I managed to get through them.

I won't go into what exactly I have or make income-wise, but let's say that a single person here in Cali, can live very comfortably on an income of say 2 million pesos per month (close to $1k).

Along with my new job, I also give private lessons and make a nice additional income from that.

I have a few ideas for businesses here and actually know quite a few foreigners, AND Colombians that have successful businesses here. I have a Canadian friend (born in Canada and lived his whole life there, but was born to Colombian parents there), who teaches French here and also has a internet thing going as well. He is doing very well.

It can be done...

Famous last words...

[Hunter]

Famous last words...

3 back in Minnesota flipping burgers :rofl:

[el_papi_chew_low]

3 back in Minnesota flipping burgers :rofl:

OK I was just gonna ask for an update since that was posted in 2011. Cali is certainly a city I considered.

[Hunter]

OK I was just gonna ask for an update since that was posted in 2011. Cali is certainly a city I considered.

I am not sure his exact status. I think Happy said he went back to MN and called it quits to Colombia but not sure.

[BlueDevil]

don't know if I technically fall under the "ex-pat" title or not really... but as many of you know, I moved to Cali, Colombia back in July of last year. I came with some savings and another small source of residual income, but really, everything I have gotten here so far, has been by me working. I have taught English here and it has more than paid the bills. I recently switched institutes and am currently working for the largest institute in Colombia. It is an international institute with over 600 locations worldwide. I am living fairly comfortable NOW. There were some bumps along the way, but I managed to get through them.

The "profession" of choice for many gringo ex-pats in Colombia. It's a great way to meet hot chicks and be a rock star over here.... :lol: I taught English and German in the local library... but I did it for free. After 6 months, it became too much like work. (That kind of gives you an idea of the language teacher pay scale over here. :cheesygrin: )

[MrHappy]

I am not sure his exact status. I think Happy said he went back to MN and called it quits to Colombia but not sure.

He's back in MN. He came down to the DR again for a visit, met a local girl here and married her a few months ago. Tried to get a VISA for her after they got married and failed.

So he's living up there, she's living down here, and they're trying to figure out what they're going to do next.







"It's better to look ahead and prepare than to look back and regret."
- Jacki Joyner-Kersee, American Athlete (1962-Present)

[MrHappy]

I love reading these threads. So much valuable information.

I had absolutely no idea there were VA clinics in the DR. Since I have a VA healthcare card, I could go in to any of these facilities for a checkup or treatment. That would save me a few bucks each month on a health policy with a DR insurance company or continuing to pay the premium on a policy with an American based company. Since it was open season a couple months ago, I checked my Kaiser booklet and saw where the coverage I currently have with my employer (self only, basic option) would run me $350 per month if I bought it as an individual.

Down to under 5 years to go for me.

Neither did I, because there isn't any. This is some setup calling themselves a "Medical Liaison" whatever the fuck that is. I'd be wiling to bet a paycheck it's not free either.

And they are not a clinic, just an office in a strip mall. https://www.facebook.com/MLVADR

When I get a chance, I'll stop by and see what the deal is with them.

[Hunter]

He's back in MN. He came down to the DR again for a visit, met a local girl here and married her a few months ago. Tried to get a VISA for her after they got married and failed.

So he's living up there, she's living down here, and they're trying to figure out what they're going to do next.


"It's better to look ahead and prepare than to look back and regret."
- Jacki Joyner-Kersee, American Athlete (1962-Present)

So he is divorced from the Cali girl and has kid with her. Now married to a Dominican...Good ole 3 :eek2:

[yayow]

Neither did I, because there isn't any. This is some setup calling themselves a "Medical Liaison" whatever the fuck that is. I'd be wiling to bet a paycheck it's not free either.

And they are not a clinic, just an office in a strip mall. https://www.facebook.com/MLVADR

When I get a chance, I'll stop by and see what the deal is with them.

as I said main office affiliated with the medical center in Santiago with a clinic in pto pta, went there with a veteran the other day a half a block from the US embassy in Arroyo Hondo. We were told they are in the process of building a clinic similar to what they have in pto pta. The woman we spoke to said their office in la capital had only been open for 10 days when we visited, but we're in the process of putting the clinic together and based on the need, possibly build a second spot in Santo domingo east or possibly even in Boca chica. Supposedly they have a doctor on site on Wednesdays at this point. To deal with any primary care issues, if referrals are needed they will make them at this point, it would have to be paid and bring the receipt to them and they will get you reimbursed by the VA in the states. I am not a Vet so I have looked into this because I have friends that are Vets, and I am trying to get them the information. They said any thing that Vets receive in the US they will receive here, free of charge like in the US, including meds etc. They are up and running in the other two locations, the capital is still a work in progress, but Vets need to be registered, and the info needs to be forwarded to the VA in the states. I went last week, with a friend , they have his information to get him registered, once they get the approval from the VA in the states, they will call him and set up an appointment with the doctor here for an evaluation, that is what my friend is waiting for, we hope it will be done this week or next. After taking him to that evaluation, I will have more info, and will be able to share it.


If I knew how to post pictures, I could post their card, and a copy of the information packet that they gave us, I have already given some of the packets out, as the director asked that we spread the word.

But I will give you some info., and you can feel free to contact them yourselves:


Medical Liason & Veteran Assistance
(MELIVEA)
Lic. Ramón Ancona
Director
Calle Puerto Rico No. 6
La Esmeralda, Santiago
República Dominicana

telefono: 809- 971-9421
Celular: 809- 628-3651
mlva.dr@hotmail.com


That info is for the main office in Santiago

The number for the office in la capital is (809) 747-9400
Adm. Jenny

[yayow]

I forgot in the last post to put their website: mlvadr.com


on the site they have their hours of operations at the different locations, plus what their services are.

I hope this is of some assistance

[SrSuerte]

I will speak with someone from Tricare here this week. I do know that we can get our benefits transferred to a VA Hospital if there is not a Base Hospital within I believe 100 miles.

[jacknback]

Its cheaper than I pay in USA.

Let me give you a simple statement from my ENT Dr. who took care of me in Angeles,

Be glad you got diagnosed in the US of A because by now here without the best insurance you could buy,,,you would probably be dead.

And that's it for me as far as health insurance....Those of you who have been fortunate enough not to get ill in another country better do your home work and the cheap to middle cost insurance ain't paying for the illness you tend to get as you age.

[JDR]

Let me give you a simple statement from my ENT Dr. who took care of me in Angeles,

Be glad you got diagnosed in the US of A because by now here without the best insurance you could buy,,,you would probably be dead.

And that's it for me as far as health insurance....Those of you who have been fortunate enough not to get ill in another country better do your home work and the cheap to middle cost insurance ain't paying for the illness you tend to get as you age.

Very good to know because when it hits, its fast and you are off guard.

[ROVER]

I love reading these threads. So much valuable information.

We are an aging bunch on this board. Most of the regular posters are between 40 and 60. I can easily see how a whole bunch of us will be relocating to the DR, Thailand, Colombia, or wherever our heart is content. Maybe a combo of several countries. A few months here, a few months there, etc. That's my plan :iconTU:

Down to under 5 years to go for me. Congratulations ! 5 years 3 months more for me. Starting to feel it.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[el toro]

Damn! Who the hell stirred up this old thread again???? lol. Thanks Papi Chew. Makes sense though as you're a fairly new ex-pat to DR. I was a young , bright-eyed child in this game when I started this thread--ok, not accurate, but true that a lot has changed in Sosua and all over the island I'm guessing.

[weyland]

Why are you posting here, Mr Happy? Your groupies are frantic at your absence from DR1. They were about to put your photo on milk cartons.

[MrHappy]

Why are you posting here, Mr Happy? Your groupies are frantic at your absence from DR1. They were about to put your photo on milk cartons.

My account was deleted. :p

[Apos]

Deleted? Seriously?

WTF did you post LOL!!!

:notworthy::wav::wav::clap::clap2::bigthumbup:


My account was deleted. :p

[Jimmydr]

My account was deleted. :p

From where?

[whynotme]

Why are you posting here, Mr Happy? Your groupies are frantic at your absence from DR1. They were about to put your photo on milk cartons.


My account was deleted. :p


From where?

two posts back:lol:

[Apos]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ae50P_ajLxA

[Apos]

"Apple, my favorite!" :rofl::rofl::rofl:



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ae50P_ajLxA

[Jimmydr]

Peter at Passions, the woman that owns Bailey's, ohmmmmm - just to name a few.

Peter, really?

[Westy]

Peter, really?
In 2011....

[snoozer]

Peter, really?

Catching up on your reading Jimmy ???

[Jimmydr]

In 2011....

Like I said, not too many make it.

[greydread]

Like I said, not too many make it.
There are 360 degrees of perspective on "made it" and to me, the Guy that attempted something that he always wanted to try and failed is the Guy who "made it" when compared to the Guy who wanted to try and never did.

[Jimmydr]

There are 360 degrees of perspective on "made it" and to me, the Guy that attempted something that he always wanted to try and failed is the Guy who "made it" when compared to the Guy who wanted to try and never did.

How about guys like us that retire with a pension and never worry about anything anymore.

[greydread]

How about guys like us that retire with a pension and never worry about anything anymore.
That'll never be me.

Most of the Guys I know who did that are already dead.

Struggle is a nutrient and we need some level of it to survive. Shangri-La is just a place to wait to die.

[Jimmydr]

That'll never be me.

Most of the Guys I know who did that are already dead.

Struggle is a nutrient and we need some level of it to survive. Shangri-La is just a place to wait to die.

Well, I won't have a thing to worry about. If i want to fly some place i will. Won't worry if anyone will buy anything from me today or the cops will shake me down or deport me. No worries Mon.

[greydread]

Well, I won't have a thing to worry about. If i want to fly some place i will. Won't worry if anyone will buy anything from me today or the cops will shake me down or deport me. No worries Mon.
Why worry about something that may or may not happen? Ever wonder why Hurricane parties are the most fun ever?

[yayow]

Like I said, not too many make it.

many make it, most you just don't know. I know so many that are having the time of their lives, would never go back to the States, Canada or wherever they were before, I see them, hang with them everyday.
Most if not all don't have that 3rd me gene, jajaja

[Westy]

How about guys like us that retire with a pension and never worry about anything anymore.


That'll never be me.

Most of the Guys I know who did that are already dead.

Struggle is a nutrient and we need some level of it to survive. Shangri-La is just a place to wait to die.

I won't argue that, but I will offer a contrasting perspective. I wouldn't say that all us retired dudes are lotus-eaters ... there are numbers of us who have left the workplace, but not to take a plush Barca-Lounger seat in God's waiting room. We aren't doing the "nine-to-five to survive," but we're still taking on challenges, moving forward, actively living our lives. I think I can count myself in that number, with other examples like Yayow and Jacknback.

But I know you understand this, because I remember you saying you're in your present job because you love what you're doing.

[Jimmydr]

many make it, most you just don't know. I know so many that are having the time of their lives, would never go back to the States, Canada or wherever they were before, I see them, hang with them everyday.
Most if not all don't have that 3rd me gene, jajaja

How many have that pension coming in vs living day to day and if a storm comes, they are done? I really didn't notice too many in boca chica

[yayow]

How many have that pension coming in vs living day to day and if a storm comes, they are done? I really didn't notice too many in boca chica


Most of the guys at least the ones I associate with most, are not rich, but have some sort of means and are living within their means comfortably, and have been for years. And there are a few that are very comfortable, living much better than myself, you may be surprised.

[Jimmydr]

Most of the guys at least the ones I associate with most, are not rich, but have some sort of means and are living within their means comfortably, and have been for years. And there are a few that are very comfortable, living much better than myself, you may be surprised.

Thats my point. they didn't pick up at age 32, with $5,000 and a dream, they worked for it, like you did.

[yayow]

Thats my point. they didn't pick up at age 32, with $5,000 and a dream, they worked for it, like you did.


Si señor, guys trying to come and just start living here, with nothing to fall back on, or not having a particular skill, that is marketable, have a lot harder time, in my opinion and through my observations.

[ROVER]

How about guys like us that retire with a pension and never worry about anything anymore.


That'll never be me.

Most of the Guys I know who did that are already dead.

Struggle is a nutrient and we need some level of it to survive. Shangri-La is just a place to wait to die.


Though guys like me and Jimmy may forever wonder "what if" the reality is much different for most. Usually it is a last ditch effort at retirement. A make or break proposition where a frugal life's savings is put on the line with enormous odds not in ones favor.

Struggle and stress are one in the same after a certain point in life and I thrive in an environment that is stress and worry free. Achieving that state has always been my goal and now it is near. To each his own.

[Westy]

Though guys like me and Jimmy may forever wonder "what if" the reality is much different for most. Usually it is a last ditch effort at retirement. A make or break proposition where a frugal life's savings is put on the line with enormous odds not in ones favor.

Struggle and stress are one in the same after a certain point in life and I thrive in an environment that is stress and worry free. Achieving that state has always been my goal and now it is near. To each his own.
That's a pretty good simile ... some of these guys made a last stand; some of them slung out a hammock.

Consider an old-familiar example, "Exhibit S," which I decline to name more explicitly ... a fellow who earned a pretty decent pension from the USA Federal Service, and recognized that his pension would stretch farther and afford him more pleasure in the Dominican Republic. I met him, soon after his retirement, in October 2010 ... he directed me to ISOC ... and a few years later, he helped me celebrate my 60th birthday in style, in the DR, December 2013. By that time, he'd changed his screen-name on this forum, to reflect his new hobby of "barbering" the nether-regions of many chicas on the DR's North Coast. (I hope my description will be 'translucent' enough for some of our old hands, without doxxing one of our ISOC legends ... and I hope you're still enjoying your life, "S.")

I'm not quite ready to follow his example, or Yayow's, or Mr. Happy's, or even that of SeaWeed, who seems to be spending 185 days of the year in the USA and the other 180 in Jamaica. But I'm planning to extend my stay, a bit, for my next few trips ... and one of these days, I'm hoping to start spending enough time in-country that I'm ready to re-brand myself an "expat," or at any rate a "seasonal expat" like SeaWeed.

[Jimmydr]

. Achieving that state has always been my goal and now it is near. To each his own.

My goal as well.

[Jimmydr]

Though guys like me and Jimmy may forever wonder "what if" the reality is much different for most.

I never wondered what it was to live in DR when I was in my 30's and 40's.

[yayow]

I never wondered what it was to live in DR when I was in my 30's and 40's.

You know what me neither, never thought about this place. Never came here until 43, when I felt it was time for my daughter to meet the side of the family in this country. Never thought of living here till retirement was staring me in the face, and I had to make a decision. Original place looking for retirement was a community in the Fort Lauderdale area, Coral Springs; if I stayed married that would probably be where I would be right now, and Yayow would have never been born.

But when the marriage ended; was looking for a place to enjoy my retirement and live comfortably on my pension. I knew New York was out the question, too expensive, saw too many friends who had been retired chasing too many old, fat difficult women there. So my aunt had just moved to Indianapolis, so I priced apartments there, figured I could live there half the year, and by this time figured the other half in the DR. Had even put all my stuff in storage there. But after my first month living in the DR, I knew, and never stepped foot in Indy.

[Dawkins]

I love this whole post.

[Mr. Smooth]

I never even thought about the DR until late 2006. I had been going to Thailand for over a decade by then, loving the scene, enjoyed meeting up with some expats or fellow travelers, as well as the plethora of women in the bars and clubs. Thought it was a little slice of heaven and began thinking of possibly living there when I retired if I didn't get married.

One day I was thinking about seeing if I could find a spot in this hemisphere, a place that could fill the void of my once a year trips to Pattaya. I checked out WSG and read some old reports from the early to mid 2000's. Then I found DR1 and began reading up on this country from that forum.

Made my first trip in spring 2007. Met some cool guys and was asked one night in the Shark Bar if I had ever heard of ISOC. Told them I hadn't. Eventually I checked it out and joined in 2008, but never really began being a regular poster until the following year.

During that time, reading from the guys who either lived there, such as MrHappy or yayow, then along the way came Seville, weyland, WickedWillie and a few others who lived there year round, then the guys who made frequent return visits during the year like Sage, I began to look at the DR as a place to live, at least for a part of the year, from talking to many of these guys. Asking about budgets, locations, ease of transport, potential hazards to deal with, the pros and cons, etc.......ever since I have placed particular creedence to the posts of these guys since they live there whenever a subject comes up that brings out all sorts of speculation from those who don't live there.

My first thought is to secure that pension, period. I am determined to not be one who fails if I relocate to a different country. If it winds up being the DR for several months a year, then the help and advice that I hear, or read on this board, will be invaluable to my own lifestyle decisions as a future expat. Believe me, whatever I am told about living down there will not be lost on me.

To those guys I mentioned earlier, I am always grateful for your honesty in answering any questions I have had in the past or might have in the future. Back then, I was a decade plus away from any possible relocation. Now, with a bit over 4 years to go, that focus is becoming a bit more sharp with each passing day.

My humble thanks and appreciation to you guys! :iconTU:

[Jimmydr]

You know what me neither, never thought about this place. Never came here until 43, when I felt it was time for my daughter to meet the side of the family in this country. Never thought of living here till retirement was staring me in the face, and I had to make a decision. Original place looking for retirement was a community in the Fort Lauderdale area, Coral Springs; if I stayed married that would probably be where I would be right now, and Yayow would have never been born.

But when the marriage ended; was looking for a place to enjoy my retirement and live comfortably on my pension. I knew New York was out the question, too expensive, saw too many friends who had been retired chasing too many old, fat difficult women there. So my aunt had just moved to Indianapolis, so I priced apartments there, figured I could live there half the year, and by this time figured the other half in the DR. Had even put all my stuff in storage there. But after my first month living in the DR, I knew, and never stepped foot in Indy.

And then you had that great hobby on the beach that you sold for a prifit:clap::clap::clap::clap:

[el toro]

many make it, most you just don't know. I know so many that are having the time of their lives, would never go back to the States, Canada or wherever they were before, I see them, hang with them everyday.
Most if not all don't have that 3rd me gene, jajaja

From what I can see when in BC, I have to agree.

My boss is about to move and work remotely full-time, so I've been thinking maybe I should just move and do my job from DR. However, should my team end up re-structuring or there be lay-offs as there are sometimes, I would then become an ex-pat that failed unless I found another US based job that would allow me to work remotely out of country. Nice to ponder ideas though.

[Jimmydr]

From what I can see when in BC, I have to agree.

My boss is about to move and work remotely full-time, so I've been thinking maybe I should just move and do my job from DR. However, should my team end up re-structuring or there be lay-offs as there are sometimes, I would then become an ex-pat that failed unless I found another US based job that would allow me to work remotely out of country. Nice to ponder ideas though.

That would not be failing.


Failing is opening a store bar or restaurant with a life savings of $12,000 for example and then asking for plane fare home.:corky:

[Jimmydr]

You know what me neither, never thought about this place. Never came here until 43, when I felt it was time for my daughter to meet the side of the family in this country. Never thought of living here till retirement was staring me in the face, and I had to make a decision. Original place looking for retirement was a community in the Fort Lauderdale area, Coral Springs; if I stayed married that would probably be where I would be right now, and Yayow would have never been born.

But when the marriage ended; was looking for a place to enjoy my retirement and live comfortably on my pension. I knew New York was out the question, too expensive, saw too many friends who had been retired chasing too many old, fat difficult women there. So my aunt had just moved to Indianapolis, so I priced apartments there, figured I could live there half the year, and by this time figured the other half in the DR. Had even put all my stuff in storage there. But after my first month living in the DR, I knew, and never stepped foot in Indy.

You had a bar once, worked 14 hours a day for 7 days a week and then said, hey, i have a pension and sold it.


Was that fun?

[yayow]

You had a bar once, worked 14 hours a day for 7 days a week and then said, hey, i have a pension and sold it.


Was that fun?


Actually it was fun for the most part, what wasn't fun was that I had to be there all the time, so it cramped my style. I have worked to hard to allow my style to be cramped, and when it does it is time to execute an exit strategy.

The main problem at least in my eyes was the people who I trusted in relieving my responsibility; my Canadian partner and my ex wife, who I wanted to be my manager. If things went as it was drawn up, I probably would still be operating the business. The partner, drank way too much, and thought it was his personal plaything, so he could drink what he wanted, without paying, had to watch him more than the staff. So had to get rid of him. That caused a lot of angst as he lied about me, causing many that knew us both to choose sides. Plus we went in as friends and came out as anything but, that was difficult.

As far as my ex, even though it had been many years of not being together, in my opinion her jealousy of the young attractive personnel running around caused problems. Got to the point where I had to let her know she wasn't allowed on the property, because she caused too many problems with the female staff. Kind of difficult when you have a child in common. So since she wasn't allowed, she didn't permit my daughter around, so something I was hoping to share with my daughter caused us to be separated. That was difficult especially because most of my time was spent there.

So it became clear to use the exit strategy. The relationship with the ex has never been repaired, but luckily with some work, my daughter and I have never been better. It still is considered a good experience in my mind, because of all the other good things that came from the experience, learned a lot that I am grateful for learning, about business in the DR, but most importantly about myself.

[Westy]

Actually it was fun for the most part, what wasn't fun was that I had to be there all the time, so it cramped my style. I have worked to hard to allow my style to be cramped, and when it does it is time to execute an exit strategy.

The main problem at least in my eyes was the people who I trusted in relieving my responsibility; my Canadian partner and my ex wife, who I wanted to be my manager. If things went as it was drawn up, I probably would still be operating the business. The partner, drank way too much, and thought it was his personal plaything, so he could drink what he wanted, without paying, had to watch him more than the staff. So had to get rid of him. That caused a lot of angst as he lied about me, causing many that knew us both to choose sides. Plus we went in as friends and came out as anything but, that was difficult.

As far as my ex, even though it had been many years of not being together, in my opinion her jealousy of the young attractive personnel running around caused problems. Got to the point where I had to let her know she wasn't allowed on the property, because she caused too many problems with the female staff. Kind of difficult when you have a child in common. So since she wasn't allowed, she didn't permit my daughter around, so something I was hoping to share with my daughter caused us to be separated. That was difficult especially because most of my time was spent there.

So it became clear to use the exit strategy. The relationship with the ex has never been repaired, but luckily with some work, my daughter and I have never been better. It still is considered a good experience in my mind, because of all the other good things that came from the experience, learned a lot that I am grateful for learning, about business in the DR, but most importantly about myself.

It appears to me that what you experienced there was NOT "failure," and you got more out of it than "the experience."

You didn't go broke; you covered your losses (at least the financial ones) and you've still got your pension. Plus, you're not merely part of the landscape in Boca Chica, you're a landmark - Señor Tranquilo himself! And the bar is still your beach-front back yard. I'd call that Winning! :mrgreen:

[el toro]

That would not be failing.


Failing is opening a store bar or restaurant with a life savings of $12,000 for example and then asking for plane fare home.:corky:

Failing IMO is having to return to the US against my own wishes because I had no way to support myself there. Having to return home due to job loss or business loss, lack of a plan etc..is not a good look.

[el toro]

A failing business is no big deal IMO when someone has other successful businesses, a pension or other income to live a comfortable life.

[yayow]

It appears to me that what you experienced there was NOT "failure," and you got more out of it than "the experience."

.....

Failure who said anything about failure:confused: I don't fail, I was just explaining the process, nothing about it was failure.:(

[Jimmydr]

Failure who said anything about failure:confused: I don't fail, I was just explaining the process, nothing about it was failure.:(

You were a major success because it was a hobby!

[Jimmydr]

Failing IMO is having to return to the US against my own wishes because I had no way to support myself there. Having to return home due to job loss or business loss, lack of a plan etc..is not a good look.

Very bad at age 30 something because whats next?

[Jimmydr]

Actually it was fun for the most part, what wasn't fun was that I had to be there all the time, so it cramped my style. I have worked to hard to allow my style to be cramped, and when it does it is time to execute an exit strategy.

The main problem at least in my eyes was the people who I trusted in relieving my responsibility; my Canadian partner and my ex wife, who I wanted to be my manager. If things went as it was drawn up, I probably would still be operating the business. The partner, drank way too much, and thought it was his personal plaything, so he could drink what he wanted, without paying, had to watch him more than the staff. So had to get rid of him. That caused a lot of angst as he lied about me, causing many that knew us both to choose sides. Plus we went in as friends and came out as anything but, that was difficult.

As far as my ex, even though it had been many years of not being together, in my opinion her jealousy of the young attractive personnel running around caused problems. Got to the point where I had to let her know she wasn't allowed on the property, because she caused too many problems with the female staff. Kind of difficult when you have a child in common. So since she wasn't allowed, she didn't permit my daughter around, so something I was hoping to share with my daughter caused us to be separated. That was difficult especially because most of my time was spent there.

So it became clear to use the exit strategy. The relationship with the ex has never been repaired, but luckily with some work, my daughter and I have never been better. It still is considered a good experience in my mind, because of all the other good things that came from the experience, learned a lot that I am grateful for learning, about business in the DR, but most importantly about myself.

And you had your pension and an offer to buy, so why not sell.

[greydread]

Very bad at age 30 something because whats next?

At 30 something? That's the perfect age for a new beginning.

[Jimmydr]

At 30 something? That's the perfect age for a new beginning.

Then what, they lost the taste for that place and now what? The rest of us are getting ready to retire with pensions and move there and these 30 something guys are lost.


At say 39, ypu need to go home, get a job and start saving for retirement in 20 or more years.

[greydread]

Then what, they lost the taste for that place and now what? The rest of us are getting ready to retire with pensions and move there and these 30 something guys are lost.


At say 39, ypu need to go home, get a job and start saving for retirement in 20 or more years.

39 is young. I told all my Kids "If you have any mistakes in you, make them small and early".

[Jimmydr]

39 is young. I told all my Kids "If you have any mistakes in you, make them small and early".

relocating to Dr at age 30 something with your life savings of $26,000 thinking you will make it big and then failing will break most guys spirits.

[greydread]

relocating to Dr at age 30 something with your life savings of $26,000 thinking you will make it big and then failing will break most guys spirits.

That's just blowing off a little steam. They'll recover and laugh about it later.

[Jimmydr]

That's just blowing off a little steam. They'll recover and laugh about it later.

So that American guy in Boca that is begging for pesos will recover?:corky:

[greydread]

So that American guy in Boca that is begging for pesos will recover?:corky:
In his 30's? Probably. In his 50's and 60's? Probably not.

I started my current job at 58.

When I left the last place they couldn't believe it. Everyone was like "What are you going to do after 31 years here". I was like: "Something different".

Never be afraid to follow your fate.

[SeaWeed]

tell ya it's the expats you have to watch out for in paradise.......never mind the locals......
the expats can be by far the worst.....they are cunning and come up with these investment ideas to rob you.....scammers
or they just play on your limited knowledge of what the runnings are in paradise.....thief...
mi know one expat that has sold his piece of land like a half a dozen times or more to different foreigners......crook...
another expat showed up with $500US in the 90's and still hustling backgammon games for a living.....hustler...
the gurls go for chump change.....but these expats will take every dime you have if you let dem...true

[Jimmydr]

tell ya it's the expats you have to watch out for in paradise.......never mind the locals......
the expats can be by far the worst.....they are cunning and come up with these investment ideas to rob you.....scammers
or they just play on your limited knowledge of what the runnings are in paradise.....thief...
mi know one expat that has sold his piece of land like a half a dozen times or more to different foreigners......crook...
another expat showed up with $500US in the 90's and still hustling backgammon games for a living.....hustler...
the gurls go for chump change.....but these expats will take every dime you have if you let dem...true

1,000% true

[greydread]

tell ya it's the expats you have to watch out for in paradise.......never mind the locals......
the expats can be by far the worst.....they are cunning and come up with these investment ideas to rob you.....scammers
or they just play on your limited knowledge of what the runnings are in paradise.....thief...
mi know one expat that has sold his piece of land like a half a dozen times or more to different foreigners......crook...
another expat showed up with $500US in the 90's and still hustling backgammon games for a living.....hustler...
the gurls go for chump change.....but these expats will take every dime you have if you let dem...true
No doubt. A buddy of mine from the DC area moved down to the D.R. and went native. He was doing alright but then a couple years later he was like "Can you loan me $50K DOP, I've got a deal going that I'm willing to let you in on". I once had a buddy. I don't know what kind of jam he got himself into but he definitely lost his grip on reality asking me some shit like that.

[Jimmydr]

No doubt. A buddy of mine from the DC area moved down to the D.R. and went native. He was doing alright but then a couple years later he was like "Can you loan me $50K DOP, I've got a deal going that I'm willing to let you in on". I once had a buddy. I don't know what kind of jam he got himself into but he definitely lost his grip on reality asking me some shit like that.

But he can rebound you said. Whats a 50K loan anyway:corky:

[greydread]

But he can rebound you said. Whats a 50K loan anyway:corky:
No this Guy is in his 50's. He won't bounce so good. Remind me to tell you the story next time I see you.

[Jimmydr]

No this Guy is in his 50's. He won't bounce so good. Remind me to tell you the story next time I see you.

I will bring the pepsi.

[Westy]

No doubt. A buddy of mine from the DC area moved down to the D.R. and went native. He was doing alright but then a couple years later he was like "Can you loan me $50K DOP, I've got a deal going that I'm willing to let you in on". I once had a buddy. I don't know what kind of jam he got himself into but he definitely lost his grip on reality asking me some shit like that.
That's just darn sad. It would be bad enough for a young'un, but with time he could lick his wounds and recover.

In your fifties, you don't have that much time to recover ... and you're probably "set in your ways" so that you won't recover.

There are exceptions, God bless 'em, but it's hard enough at home; it might be near-impossible for a First-Worlder broke in the Third World.

[Jimmydr]

There are exceptions, God bless 'em, but it's hard enough at home; it might be near-impossible for a First-Worlder broke in the Third World.

Who is a first Worlder?

[greydread]

Who is a first Worlder?
That's a great question and the answer will differ wildly depending upon who you ask since the description itself is a very subjective one. Generally speaking, we think of "1st World" which would be correctly called "The New World" as the USA and Canada which have enjoyed a century of prosperity, interrupted only by the Great Depression and WWII. In these countries it is assumed that the fantastic wealth generated over this century of good fortune is enjoyed by all in terms of good salaries, education and health benefits, etc. Even to this day, amidst the fall of our economies the description of abject poverty in these countries sounds like the middle class in most of the world.

The place where the race for colonization began is referred to as the "Old World", most of Western Europe is included in this generalization and these countries found a resurgence in prosperity after a very dark age when discovery and exploitation of people and resources in faraway lands translated into phenomenal wealth in the hands of their ruling families and upper classes. In fact, these countries amassed so much wealth that some of it actually trickled down to the masses in the form of work/ salary opportunities thus transforming the "peasant class" of bygone era into the "middle class" with which we are familiar today.

The prosperity of both the "Old World" and the "New World" allowed the two to become merger partners in the economic development of the 19th and 20th centuries and they used one another to supply raw materials and labor for manufacturing which was the new economic engine. This was mostly raw materials from the New World going East and labor from the Old World going West. The "Third World" described the rest of the world, mostly the places where precious resources were extracted from, using local laborers at sub poverty wages to provide the gold, diamonds, oil, fruit, sugar, spices, rice, rubber, etc and this paradigm worked very well for many years until the people of those "3rd World" countries got wind of the quality of life in the Old/ New World compared to their own relative squalor and discontentment ensued and the yokes of former colonial powers were thrown off violently or eased off diplomatically and the unrest of the 60's, 70's and 80's resulted in the emergence of Third World countries into OPEC, BRICS and other economic cartels which are growing to challenge the financial empires which have ruled the world for the last century and the old economic powers are in a struggle for their lives to retain economic dominance over the rest of their lives.

The old bull never just walks away from his herd of cows. The young bull must defeat him if he is to lead. It is that way in nature and it is that way with the nature of Humans. Sometimes these transitions happen over the course of hundreds of years and sometimes they happen seemingly overnight. We of the Old World and the New are in a sort of prosperity bubble from which we are able to venture out of our comfort zones and establish ourselves in the 3rd World with the benefit of economic security, the likes of which is unheard of among the common working folk in the places where we travel. This allows us to be seen as an asset and a valuable ally among the People we befriend along the way as the hope of shared prosperity endears us to those we meet. On the other side of that same sword is the fact that those of us who have nothing to offer but tales of our own economic failure, a thought that is inconceivable to these People, given the advantages available to us we will be perceived as incompetent, ignorant and useless. One need not leave their home turf to accomplish that feat.

[j_d66]

That's a great question and the answer will differ wildly depending upon who you ask since the description itself is a very subjective one. Generally speaking, we think of "1st World" which would be correctly called "The New World" as the USA and Canada which have enjoyed a century of prosperity, interrupted only by the Great Depression and WWII. In these countries it is assumed that the fantastic wealth generated over this century of good fortune is enjoyed by all in terms of good salaries, education and health benefits, etc. Even to this day, amidst the fall of our economies the description of abject poverty in these countries sounds like the middle class in most of the world.

The place where the race for colonization began is referred to as the "Old World", most of Western Europe is included in this generalization and these countries found a resurgence in prosperity after a very dark age when discovery and exploitation of people and resources in faraway lands translated into phenomenal wealth in the hands of their ruling families and upper classes. In fact, these countries amassed so much wealth that some of it actually trickled down to the masses in the form of work/ salary opportunities thus transforming the "peasant class" of bygone era into the "middle class" with which we are familiar today.

The prosperity of both the "Old World" and the "New World" allowed the two to become merger partners in the economic development of the 19th and 20th centuries and they used one another to supply raw materials and labor for manufacturing which was the new economic engine. This was mostly raw materials from the New World going East and labor from the Old World going West. The "Third World" described the rest of the world, mostly the places where precious resources were extracted from, using local laborers at sub poverty wages to provide the gold, diamonds, oil, fruit, sugar, spices, rice, rubber, etc and this paradigm worked very well for many years until the people of those "3rd World" countries got wind of the quality of life in the Old/ New World compared to their own relative squalor and discontentment ensued and the yokes of former colonial powers were thrown off violently or eased off diplomatically and the unrest of the 60's, 70's and 80's resulted in the emergence of Third World countries into OPEC, BRICS and other economic cartels which are growing to challenge the financial empires which have ruled the world for the last century and the old economic powers are in a struggle for their lives to retain economic dominance over the rest of their lives.

The old bull never just walks away from his herd of cows. The young bull must defeat him if he is to lead. It is that way in nature and it is that way with the nature of Humans. Sometimes these transitions happen over the course of hundreds of years and sometimes they happen seemingly overnight. We of the Old World and the New are in a sort of prosperity bubble from which we are able to venture out of our comfort zones and establish ourselves in the 3rd World with the benefit of economic security, the likes of which is unheard of among the common working folk in the places where we travel. This allows us to be seen as an asset and a valuable ally among the People we befriend along the way as the hope of shared prosperity endears us to those we meet. On the other side of that same sword is the fact that those of us who have nothing to offer but tales of our own economic failure, a thought that is inconceivable to these People, given the advantages available to us we will be perceived as incompetent, ignorant and useless. One need not leave their home turf to accomplish that feat.

Interesting stuff and a good explanation

A little more about what Grey said here

http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/third_world_countries.htm


http://www.nationsonline.org/bilder/third_world_map.jpg

They say the map is outdated but it give you and idea.

[Jimmydr]

Four Worlds
After World War II the world split into two large geopolitical blocs and spheres of influence with contrary views on government and the politically correct society:
1 - The bloc of democratic-industrial countries within the American influence sphere, the "First World".
2 - The Eastern bloc of the communist-socialist states, the "Second World".
3 - The remaining three-quarters of the world's population, states not aligned with either bloc were regarded as the "Third World."
4 - The term "Fourth World", coined in the early 1970s by Shuswap Chief George Manuel, refers to widely unknown nations (cultural entities) of indigenous peoples, "First Nations" living within or across national state boundaries.

[greydread]

Four Worlds
After World War II the world split into two large geopolitical blocs and spheres of influence with contrary views on government and the politically correct society:
1 - The bloc of democratic-industrial countries within the American influence sphere, the "First World".
2 - The Eastern bloc of the communist-socialist states, the "Second World".
3 - The remaining three-quarters of the world's population, states not aligned with either bloc were regarded as the "Third World."
4 - The term "Fourth World", coined in the early 1970s by Shuswap Chief George Manuel, refers to widely unknown nations (cultural entities) of indigenous peoples, "First Nations" living within or across national state boundaries.
It bears mention that this dynamic is constantly shifting and the definition of "1-2-3-4-5 worlds" is fluid with the exception of the "Old" and the "New", after all, we're looking at this from a uniquely Western perspective. Go to North Africa or China or India and tell People about how the "Old World" is Western Europe and they will roll on the floor with laughter. When you look at this Human race from a global perspective and see the movements of power and wealth on a timeline that stretches to cover the past 6,000 years of recorded history it is clear that there were concurrent developments of powerful civilizations long before Europe joined the party and it wasn't until WWII that the USA rose to the head of the class, mostly because U.S. financiers backed both sides in the WW's and made a ton of cash off of the ton of misery which resulted. That's the one thing that you can count on in this world, anywhere People are suffering there is loads of profit to be had. As an example, how many contractors and NGO's made a pile off the earthquake in Haiti in 2010? After all that money was spent how much better off is Haiti now than in 2010, 6 years earlier? How many Americans are aware that 75% of the weapons used by (captured from) ISIS are made in the USA? Death is one manufactured commodity that will never be "off-shored" as nobody makes the tools of death as well as we do. This is how most of the world sees us in our post WWII arrogance

Each corner of the world is filled with People who see the world from their own historical perspective and it's imperative that we acknowledge and understand those perspectives if we hope to live among them successfully.

[CentralNJDude]

It bears mention that this dynamic is constantly shifting and the definition of "1-2-3-4-5 worlds" is fluid with the exception of the "Old" and the "New", after all, we're looking at this from a uniquely Western perspective. Go to North Africa or China or India and tell People about how the "Old World" is Western Europe and they will roll on the floor with laughter. When you look at this Human race from a global perspective and see the movements of power and wealth on a timeline that stretches to cover the past 6,000 years of recorded history it is clear that there were concurrent developments of powerful civilizations long before Europe joined the party and it wasn't until WWII that the USA rose to the head of the class, mostly because U.S. financiers backed both sides in the WW's and made a ton of cash off of the ton of misery which resulted. That's the one thing that you can count on in this world, anywhere People are suffering there is loads of profit to be had. As an example, how many contractors and NGO's made a pile off the earthquake in Haiti in 2010? After all that money was spent how much better off is Haiti now than in 2010, 6 years earlier? How many Americans are aware that 75% of the weapons used by (captured from) ISIS are made in the USA? Death is one manufactured commodity that will never be "off-shored" as nobody makes the tools of death as well as we do. This is how most of the world sees us in our post WWII arrogance

Each corner of the world is filled with People who see the world from their own historical perspective and it's imperative that we acknowledge and understand those perspectives if we hope to live among them successfully.

The Taliban had both Russian and US weapons mostly; all made it to their hands via various routes from the various factions the countries supported. Same goes for ISIS and the other terrorist organizations. A lot of the aid that the western goverments pile in to rebuild economies ends up in the wrong hands; some locals get very rich and some makes its way to the wrong groups; the real folks needing the aid get screwed.

[greydread]

The Taliban had both Russian and US weapons mostly; all made it to their hands via various routes from the various factions the countries supported. Same goes for ISIS and the other terrorist organizations. A lot of the aid that the western goverments pile in to rebuild economies ends up in the wrong hands; some locals get very rich and some makes its way to the wrong groups; the real folks needing the aid get screwed.

That's funny. I have a hard time imaginin munitions and aid in the same sentence. Fact: we armed those crazy mothafuckas and they used our own munitions against us.

[Westy]

I am glad of the fact that good maps -- and especially the aeronautical charts that I used to teach other countries' mapping agencies to make, during my tenure in the International Office of Defense Mapping School -- aren't exactly something you can "weaponize."

[weyland]

What the fuck has all this got to do with ex-pats that fall (fail?)?

[Jimmydr]

What the fuck has all this got to do with ex-pats that fall (fail?)?

Post counts

[greydread]

What the fuck has all this got to do with ex-pats that fall (fail?)?
It's part of the larger perspective. Wherever you are, whatever you're experiencing, it's all part of a bigger picture. Did you not see the recent capitulation of the entire Dominican banking system to the IRS? Are you aware if the Chinese PM's visit to neighboring Cuba while the Chinese AF is conducting training flights between Japan's islands? How about the new Philippine President's decision to undo the decision to reinstate and rebuild U.S. military bases in his country? These and other seemingly independent occurrences around the globe are all connecting dots that spell change for U.S. ex patriots worldwide.

[Jimmydr]

It's part of the larger perspective. Wherever you are, whatever you're experiencing, it's all part of a bigger picture. Did you not see the recent capitulation of the entire Dominican banking system to the IRS? Are you aware if the Chinese PM's visit to neighboring Cuba while the Chinese AF is conducting training flights between Japan's islands? How about the new Philippine President's decision to undo the decision to reinstate and rebuild U.S. military bases in his country? These and other seemingly independent occurrences around the globe are all connecting dots that spell change for U.S. ex patriots worldwide.

They will build walls to keep us out.:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:

[greydread]

They will build walls to keep us out.:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:
More like our own government erecting financial and legal barriers to keep us in. They see us all over the world enjoying our lives and they hate us for our freedom.

Big Brother is no joke.

[Jimmydr]

More like our own government erecting financial and legal barriers to keep us in. They see us all over the world enjoying our lives and they hate us for our freedom.

Big Brother is no joke.

I don't get that feeling at all.

[greydread]

I don't get that feeling at all.
Then don't worry, be happy.....

[Jimmydr]

Then don't worry, be happy.....

We are old guys. We had our great times.


The younger guys are all fucked.:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:

[Jimmydr]

We need a topic called Ex Pats with Pensions that succeed!

[Westy]

We need a topic called Ex Pats with Pensions that succeed!
I think those guys are too busy having fun to run a thread like that. :wink:

I may be closer to finding out for myself. (Which is kind of bittersweet news to me.)

[Hunter]

I think those guys are too busy having fun to run a thread like that. :wink:

I may be closer to finding out for myself. (Which is kind of bittersweet news to me.)

Auntie not doing well I assume.......

[greydread]

We need a topic called Ex Pats with Pensions that succeed!
Maybe I'll start one and call it "The Old Dude at Work".

[Westy]

Auntie not doing well I assume.......
Keee-rect. Went to see her Thursday, on the way out to the boat ... she was happy to see me, but this time she asked me who I was. Her verbal skills have deteriorated to disjointed words that don't make sense. I got there just as they were getting served their lunch, and the aimless way she fumbled with her soup was disheartening enough; and when she offered me her juice with a smile, she put it on the edge of the table so it almost tipped into my lap. The Memory Care Director said she spends most of her time asleep, and said "She's fading away." Which is obvious.

One of these nights, she's going to forget to breathe....

[Jimmydr]

I think those guys are too busy having fun to run a thread like that. :wink:

I may be closer to finding out for myself. (Which is kind of bittersweet news to me.)

90's are long enough to be around unless you know whats going on.

[Jimmydr]

Maybe I'll start one and call it "The Old Dude at Work".

But you are not an Ex Pat.

[greydread]

But you are not an Ex Pat.
...and never will be. My Dad was an ex-pat down in old Mexico and sharing his experience was enough for me.

It's funny, all the ex-pat's would gather down in their favorite coffee shop at the Square in Cuernavaca and talk about Mexicans the same way they talk about Dominicans on DR1. Their favorite stories were about how they were using the country's runaway inflation to give their employees raises without really giving them raises, they needed little stories like that to make themselves feel smart and superior. Not my style at all.

On one visit I came down with a bag of wire nuts and capped every last electrical connection in his place (it was a big place) and Guys from the local power company were looking at the shit like "whoa!" so I gave them what I had left. I also brought down a Sola transformer which saved him from replacing the refrigerator compressor 4 times a year. Living in "Paradise" lacks the conveniences that we take for granted every day and to some it becomes very annoying after a while.

[Jimmydr]

...and never will be. My Dad was an ex-pat down in old Mexico and sharing his experience was enough for me.

It's funny, all the ex-pat's would gather down in their favorite coffee shop at the Square in Cuernavaca and talk about Mexicans the same way they talk about Dominicans on DR1. Their favorite stories were about how they were using the country's runaway inflation to give their employees raises without really giving them raises, they needed little stories like that to make themselves feel smart and superior. Not my style at all.

On one visit I came down with a bag of wire nuts and capped every last electrical connection in his place (it was a big place) and Guys from the local power company were looking at the shit like "whoa!" so I gave them what I had left. I also brought down a Sola transformer which saved him from replacing the refrigerator compressor 4 times a year. Living in "Paradise" lacks the conveniences that we take for granted every day and to some it becomes very annoying after a while.

See, when you drop at whatever age, all your shit goes to your kids.


when I drop, its that many more days I could have had annoying people on vacation:rofl::rofl::rofl:

[greydread]

See, when you drop at whatever age, all your shit goes to your kids.


when I drop, its that many more days I could have had annoying people on vacation:rofl::rofl::rofl:
My Kids are getting everything they're gonna get right now. I don't plan to leave shit. There won't be anyone fighting over money at my funeral and those tears will be real when the will is read.

[Jimmydr]

My Kids are getting everything they're gonna get right now. I don't plan to leave shit. There won't be anyone fighting over money at my funeral and those tears will be real when the will is read.

No way you will spend that last paycheck:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:

[greydread]

No way you will spend that last paycheck:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:
How did you think they were going to pay for the urn?

[Jimmydr]

How did you think they were going to pay for the urn?

You better be pre paid or its going to be a coffee can.

[greydread]

You better be pre paid or its going to be a coffee can.
You think I'm going to notice or even care? Once I'm out, I'm out. I'll have a whole new set of adventures to attend to.

[Jimmydr]

You think I'm going to notice or even care? Once I'm out, I'm out. I'll have a whole new set of adventures to attend to.

I will be waiting for you with a pint of ice cream and a pepsi.:iconTU::iconTU:

[Westy]

...and never will be. My Dad was an ex-pat down in old Mexico and sharing his experience was enough for me.

It's funny, all the ex-pat's would gather down in their favorite coffee shop at the Square in Cuernavaca and talk about Mexicans the same way they talk about Dominicans on DR1. Their favorite stories were about how they were using the country's runaway inflation to give their employees raises without really giving them raises, they needed little stories like that to make themselves feel smart and superior. Not my style at all.

On one visit I came down with a bag of wire nuts and capped every last electrical connection in his place (it was a big place) and Guys from the local power company were looking at the shit like "whoa!" so I gave them what I had left. I also brought down a Sola transformer which saved him from replacing the refrigerator compressor 4 times a year. Living in "Paradise" lacks the conveniences that we take for granted every day and to some it becomes very annoying after a while.

There's no bed of roses without its thorns. You're doing what's right for you, and obviously, you're enjoying life your way.

I'm still curious about the expat life, and I wonder how I'd get along with it ... but as of now, I have some "excuses" that I use to hold myself back in my old, accustomed track. (Or "comfortable rut.") I daydream over International Living, and wonder how it would be to actually live in some of the destinations I've visited over the years ... that started with a Mobile Training Team junket to Uruguay, sixteen years ago. I realize, from Yayow's stories, and Camaro's, and those of others who are living in the DR now, that the expat experience is quite different from visiting as a tourist. But my situation left me reluctant to stay away any longer.

When that situation changes, as it certainly will, I'm likely to give the expat life a try ... maybe on SeaWeed's model, at first; spending a few months at a time in some "potential paradise," but keeping my home (for the time being) and not cutting all of my ties.

[j_d66]

There's no bed of roses without its thorns. You're doing what's right for you, and obviously, you're enjoying life your way.

I'm still curious about the expat life, and I wonder how I'd get along with it ... but as of now, I have some "excuses" that I use to hold myself back in my old, accustomed track. (Or "comfortable rut.") I daydream over International Living, and wonder how it would be to actually live in some of the destinations I've visited over the years ... that started with a Mobile Training Team junket to Uruguay, sixteen years ago. I realize, from Yayow's stories, and Camaro's, and those of others who are living in the DR now, that the expat experience is quite different from visiting as a tourist. But my situation left me reluctant to stay away any longer.

When that situation changes, as it certainly will, I'm likely to give the expat life a try ... maybe on SeaWeed's model, at first; spending a few months at a time in some "potential paradise," but keeping my home (for the time being) and not cutting all of my ties.

For me there are so many places to see that I can't see spending all of my time in one location

Once I get to the point that I don't have perceived obligations that keep me in the USA I can see spending much more time in other overseas destinations but never in one spot.

Like maybe 2-3 months at a time in region of a country and than move on to someplace else.

Keeps it fresh and allows for more variety.

Yes the travel cost is more expensive than settling in one location but I think I would become bored staying in one place.

But for those that are content settling in one spot and if that makes them happy more power to them.

[Jimmydr]

There's no bed of roses without its thorns. You're doing what's right for you, and obviously, you're enjoying life your way.

I'm still curious about the expat life, and I wonder how I'd get along with it ... but as of now, I have some "excuses" that I use to hold myself back in my old, accustomed track. (Or "comfortable rut.") I daydream over International Living, and wonder how it would be to actually live in some of the destinations I've visited over the years ... that started with a Mobile Training Team junket to Uruguay, sixteen years ago. I realize, from Yayow's stories, and Camaro's, and those of others who are living in the DR now, that the expat experience is quite different from visiting as a tourist. But my situation left me reluctant to stay away any longer.

When that situation changes, as it certainly will, I'm likely to give the expat life a try ... maybe on SeaWeed's model, at first; spending a few months at a time in some "potential paradise," but keeping my home (for the time being) and not cutting all of my ties.

I will just do it the way I been doing it for 20 years. Go there, stay a month or two then come back to the USA. Plane tickets can be changed, and hotels can be arranged.

[Westy]

For me there are so many places to see that I can't see spending all of my time in one location

Once I get to the point that I don't have perceived obligations that keep me in the USA I can see spending much more time in other overseas destinations but never in one spot.

Like maybe 2-3 months at a time in region of a country and than move on to someplace else.

Keeps it fresh and allows for more variety.

Yes the travel cost is more expensive than settling in one location but I think I would become bored staying in one place.

But for those that are content settling in one spot and if that makes them happy more power to them.

And this is another major consideration. There is so much of the world that I haven't seen! (Heck, for that matter, I've only seen a little of the USA!) I certainly haven't seen enough to make a well-informed decision that "I want to live out my life ... THERE." Besides that, I'd be a fool to base that decision on just one factor, such as cost-of-mongering.

I don't have to move offshore for the sake of low rent ... yet. All the same, it would strain my finances to spend months abroad in "tourist mode." I'll need to shift into something closer to "expat mode," living more as I do at home; leasing an apartment rather than staying in hotels, cooking for myself more than dining out, choosing simpler pleasures over expensive entertainment ... no, not giving up that "expensive entertainment," but not going full-tilt like a "weekend millionaire."

[Jimmydr]

And this is another major consideration. There is so much of the world that I haven't seen! (Heck, for that matter, I've only seen a little of the USA!) I certainly haven't seen enough to make a well-informed decision that "I want to live out my life ... THERE." Besides that, I'd be a fool to base that decision on just one factor, such as cost-of-mongering.

"

I still want to see Montana and those States near it.

[Westy]

I still want to see Montana and those States near it.

There are a whole LOT of states "near it" ...

I've been to California twice - San Diego, and I was born in San Francisco (but Mom took me to Massachusetts when I was 3 months old).

Northwest ... aside from changing planes, I've only gone as far as Wisconsin.

Straight west ... I've gotten to Tulsa, Oklahoma, plus a few visits to St. Louis, Missouri. (Yes, it's true, Missouri loves company ... :rofl: )

Southwest, I've driven as far as New Orleans, but I've also been to Texas and New Mexico (on US Government business -- never mind what.)

Most of what I've seen of the intervening states, I've seen from the Interstate ... which means I've seen practically nothing.

[Jimmydr]

There are a whole LOT of states "near it" ...

I've been to California twice - San Diego, and I was born in San Francisco (but Mom took me to Massachusetts when I was 3 months old).



I been there about 7 times.

[Jimmydr]

There are a whole LOT of states "near it" ...


Northwest ... aside from changing planes, I've only gone as far as Wisconsin.

Straight west ... I've gotten to Tulsa, Oklahoma, plus a few visits to St. Louis, Missouri. (Yes, it's true, Missouri loves company ... :rofl: )

Southwest, I've driven as far as New Orleans, but I've also been to Texas and New Mexico (on US Government business -- never mind what.)

Most of what I've seen of the intervening states, I've seen from the Interstate ... which means I've seen practically nothing.

I been to 26 States and by that, i been to strip clubs in 26 States.:corky:

[Westy]

I bought myself a "midlife-crisis convertible," a Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, coupla-years after my mother "went West." I enjoyed that car while I had it, but eventually, it didn't make much sense to keep it; I'd gotten a sailboat, too, and a good "ragtop-down day" was a better "sailing day."

One reason I hung onto it, after getting into sailing, was because I had this dream of driving across America in it, like the "Route 66" TV show of my childhood ... yeah, "getting my kicks on Route 66" was a suitable fantasy...

Some of the old-as-me farts on this board might remember this:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xro0lpukfs

[whynotme]

I been to 26 States and by that, i been to strip clubs in 26 States.:corky:

I have been to every state except Alaska........... guess its still on my short bucket list:corky:

[Westy]

I have been to every state except Alaska........... guess its still on my short bucket list:corky:
Yeah ... but from my perspective, up in Ontario, you live almost as far NORTH as Alaska. :cheesygrin:

(Perspective isn't projection ... nor is it latitude. This post is specifically meant as a shit-post ... )

[Westy]

I have been to every state except Alaska........... guess its still on my short bucket list:corky:


Yeah ... but from my perspective, up in Ontario, you live almost as far NORTH as Alaska. :cheesygrin:

(Perspective isn't projection ... nor is it latitude. This post is specifically meant as a shit-post ... )

Oh ... and just for the sheer shit-post of it ... have you been to every Canadian province? :think:

[greydread]

I still want to see Montana and those States near it.

Montana is not to be missed. Fly into Salt Lake City, rent a car and drive up to West Yellowstone, stopping off in Idaho Falls. That region is amazing, especially for a NY'er.

Also, the drive from Reno to San Francisco is a life changing experience. The USA has got some really beautiful shit to see.

[Westy]

Montana is not to be missed. Fly into Salt Lake City, rent a car and drive up to West Yellowstone, stopping off in Idaho Falls. That region is amazing, especially for a NY'er.

Also, the drive from Reno to San Francisco is a life changing experience. The USA has got some really beautiful shit to see.
Sweet Baby Jesus ... I can easily see myself traveling west, and north, and east and south and every-which-way across the Fruited Plain, like the hero of Robert A. Heinlein's tale of The Man Who Traveled In Elephants. (https://maggiemcneill.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/the-man-who-traveled-in-elephants.pdf)

[Mr. Smooth]

I been there about 7 times.

Seriously Jimmy?

Somehow, you sound like a guy who has never been west of the Hudson! :corky:

Fortunately for me, when I had my Harley, I rode as far north as Highway 2, from Kalispell, Montana to Superior, Wisconsin. Saw the headwaters of the Mississippi River in Minnesota, where it is all of about 50 feet wide.

The Rockies are as majestic as they come in the US. The Grand Tetons make the Appalachian's look like a beginners ski slope. Riding Route 66 eastbound in Arizona, seeing the sun setting in the desert out of both of my rear view mirrors. Cruising along US 1 out of South Florida on my way to Key West, seeing the most beautiful turquoise blue water I had ever seen. The vast plains of the upper midwest, the Missouri River splits the Dakotas in half, west is open range land and cattle country, east are some of the most fertile farmlands on earth, and both breathtaking to see.

The brilliant, bleached white sandy beaches of the Florida Gulf Coast along Panama City, the gentle bends of the lower Mississippi as it cuts a mighty swath through New Orleans, the endless wide open nothingness of West Texas, and the auburn colored hallow of light that arches across the Las Vegas sprawl as you are coming up from the south and Hoover Dam.

And on and on it goes. I've been blessed to see a great deal of this country and not for a minute do I take it for granted. I have vowed to take a long and leisurely trip across America, from the rough and rocky shores of Northern California to the rocky shores of Maine, from the Great Lakes to the Gulf, from the swamps of the Everglades to the misty and cool air of Puget Sound.

When I was 18, I read John Steinbeck's classic book, "Travels With Charley", when he took to the road with his French poodle in a camper and traveled the back roads of America. It has been in my mind ever since to do something similar when I retire. I figure a 4-5 month road trip, maybe take a few notes along the way, write a blog or whatever to document it. Who knows, maybe try to get in touch with a few bm's to see if they have a spare sofa for a night or two as I pass on by.

From the amber waves to the shining sea, we Americans have got ourselves one hell of a beautiful country!

[Jimmydr]

Seriously Jimmy?

Somehow, you sound like a guy who has never been west of the Hudson! :corky:



Vancouver twice, Washington State once.

[Jimmydr]

Montana is not to be missed. Fly into Salt Lake City, rent a car and drive up to West Yellowstone, stopping off in Idaho Falls. That region is amazing, especially for a NY'er.

Also, the drive from Reno to San Francisco is a life changing experience. The USA has got some really beautiful shit to see.

It will be done within a few years.

[Jimmydr]

When I was 18, I read John Steinbeck's classic book, "Travels With Charley", when he took to the road with his French poodle in a camper and traveled the back roads of America. It has been in my mind ever since to do something similar when I retire. I figure a 4-5 month road trip, maybe take a few notes along the way, write a blog or whatever to document it. Who knows, maybe try to get in touch with a few bm's to see if they have a spare sofa for a night or two as I pass on by.

From the amber waves to the shining sea, we Americans have got ourselves one hell of a beautiful country!

From 18-22 we would jump in the cars and see everything 400 miles from NYC in all 3 directions.


Canada was where it all began.

[Jimmydr]

Sweet Baby Jesus ... I can easily see myself traveling west, and north, and east and south and every-which-way across the Fruited Plain, like the hero of Robert A. Heinlein's tale of The Man Who Traveled In Elephants. (https://maggiemcneill.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/the-man-who-traveled-in-elephants.pdf)

You get your pension check and you log on daily. You must know at least 2 dozen guys by now and.



Buying a plane ticket, laying around your house, or getting on your boat, tough to decide which you want to do daily:corky:

[Jimmydr]

Also, the drive from Reno to San Francisco is a life changing experience. The USA has got some really beautiful shit to see.

Did that drive and got stranded in a nice casino during a blizzard.

[whynotme]

Oh ... and just for the sheer shit-post of it ... have you been to every Canadian province? :think:

every one but newfoundland.........................:corky:

[Jimmydr]

every one but newfoundland.........................:corky:

Heard its boring there.