FRIDAY FANTASY 54

I was called in as a special agent with the United Nations to assess the damage done by Hurricane Dean on this remote island nation. Its inhabitants were few in number, but its natural resources were coveted by the worlds mega-powers.

At the airport I was briefed on the condition of the country, but that did nothing to fully describe the surreal scene unfolding as I toured the area. The island appeared to be in shades of grey due to the lack of green canopy. The inhabitants had been cutting much of the wood for housing and burning the remnants for fire to cook with. The winds and waves of Hurricane Dean had tossed the debris into further disarray.

As I stood there wondering what could possibly be salvaged from this catastrophy, I initially thought about the gemstones and crude deep beneath the surface. But then one of the islands inhabitants stepped into view.

RETIRE IN PARADISE

dr1 reports on the new laws which encourage overseas and foreign retirees to do so in the Dominican Republic:

With the approval and publication of Law 171-07 on Foreign Retirees, the Dominican Republic has become a paradise for people planning to retire to an idyllic setting. Fast-tracked residency paperwork (45 days), duty-free household goods, reductions on motor vehicle taxes, exemption on transfer taxes for the first purchase of real estate, 50% reduction on taxes on mortgages, 50% reduction on the annual property tax, exemption on taxes on dividends and interest, 50% reduction on capital gains are just some of the attractions. Developers are very happy with the new law. Just ask Jose Luis Asilis, the president of the Metro Group, who pointed out the need to publicize the news overseas. Asilis told a meeting organized by Listin Diario that Europeans can "live like kings on a fraction of what they receive in pensions." The minimum monthly income required is US$1,500 for retirees with a government or private pension and US$2,000 in verified income from all others. There is great information here.

FRIDAY FANTASY 53

SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

The caribbean nations fared well this season in track and field and other sports. Here are some pics I came across on ViewImages. Dominican Wendy Cruz is the winner of the mens road race held at the PanAm Games. Arismendy Pequero represented the Dominican Republic as he placed in the 400 meter run during the World Championships. Felix Sanchez, our very first Friday Fantasy, placed in the 400 meter hurdles race at the World Championships. Cuban athlete Yorda Garcia placed in the decathlon during the World Championships.

REALITY CHECK

As the summer travel season closes, there is a reminder in the news regarding passport requirements.

The US Department of State has sent out a reminder that all travelers will once more be required to present valid passports for re-entry into the US as of 1 October 2007, in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) aimed at strengthening border security. The WHTI passport requirement for air travel went into effect on 23 January 2007, but the US government temporarily instituted a waiver for US travelers who could show proof of having applied for the passport.

So, check your passport to make sure you have it and that it is valid.

FRIDAY FANTASY 52

Alejandro do Brazil

DOMINICAN HEAT

It's getting close to the deadline for reserving your spot at the hottest event of the season. Dominican Heat, scheduled for November 9-12th, promises to be a spectacular weekend.

Guests will stay at the charming Hotel El Candil in Boca Chica, just outside of Santo Domingo. There will be great meals, exciting activities, group excursions and parties with the caribbeans most handsome men!

There are discounts with both American and Continental airlines. Reserve your spot now!!!

PINK MAFIA

Sometimes while perusing the NET you surf across a really cool site. This is the case with Pink Mafia. The blog master, Steven, gives his spin on various genre of queer media.

The site is informative, sexy and fun! It definitely gets an add to our Links section.

FRIDAY FANTASY 51

Ricky Martinez is a lucious, lean fantasy machine! OUCH!!

AMIGOS NUEVO

The recent poll results showed that 84 percent of you would travel with friends on your initial trip to a caribbean destination, as opposed to traveling alone or for a Pride/Curcuit event.

There is nothing like good friends. Thank God I have a few of my own! Actually, we will be traveling together again in October as we take on Santo Domingo una vez mas.

I've been in contact with several guys on the internet, so here's to new friends!

Pablo is a tall 19 year old muchacho. Felix is adorable and sexy.

LUXURY COMES TO DR

dr1 reports the following news:
The big luxury resort brand names are coming to the DR. The DR is revving up for the start of the major luxury resort development, on the tails of the many successful second home vacation communities. Four Seasons announces it is ready to start building in Casa de Campo in La Romana. Ritz Carlton is on the books for construction in Cap Cana, in Punta Cana. Fairmont of Canada has plans for Roco Ki resort development in Macao, north of Punta Cana. Westin is building a first hotel in Roco Ki.