Friday, October 19, 2007
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
CHANGES
There are some changes that have been positive. The educational system is one of them. Families used to have to pay for their children to go to school. Recent changes have eliminated most of those fees, but many children still cannot afford the uniforms, books, etc. But at least it is a step in the right direction. I also appreciate the artwork that is displayed at Independence Park. It is changed periodically and allows viewers to learn about culture and artists from different countries. The current display is of works at the Louvre in Paris, France. It was refreshing to see students with their pads and pens taking notes about the works of art.
Another change, which was inevitable, is the amount of new condominiums and apartments going up. Many of these are on the Malecon, but there are others springing up throughout the city. Whereas many of these have modern architecture, I would like to see more of them reflect the classic deco style of some of the older buildings. In any case, this gives investors, retirees and those Dominicans who can afford them, some variety when choosing a new place.
Another change, which was inevitable, is the amount of new condominiums and apartments going up. Many of these are on the Malecon, but there are others springing up throughout the city. Whereas many of these have modern architecture, I would like to see more of them reflect the classic deco style of some of the older buildings. In any case, this gives investors, retirees and those Dominicans who can afford them, some variety when choosing a new place.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
PARTY SCENE
I enjoyed being in Santo Domingo this time of year. I have visited at various times of Spring and have been there in December. I must say that October was quite nice! There were no events, no holiday travelers, no crowds. Wherever we went to party there were no more than about 10 tourists. The discos were still full of patrons though, the locals do love to party!
Bar Friends was the only establishment where the numbers were sparse. I guess the buggies were not there in large numbers due to the lack of tourists. That suited me just fine. The only issue with that is the way the buggies swarm the few tourists that are present. Because it is considered the "off season" they all vye for your attention and your dollars. This is a time when one can get highly discounted rates for services.
JayDee's Disco Bar continues to be packed on Friday and Saturday nights. The Dominican gays, the buggarones and tourists keep the place jumping. They are no longer open on Sundays.
CHA, the new kid on the block, is the place to go if you want to party with the "club kids." It is a mostly young crowd that likes the high energy scene similar to clubs in New York or South Beach. Conspicuously absent is the presense of the buggies. We attempted to go on Sunday after we closed Bar Friends. The taxi driver got lost because Bolivar Avenue evidently splits and he went the wrong way. By the time we got there it was 15 minutes till closing. We sat there on the Malecon to relax and talk, when all of a sudden the doors swung open and this massive throng of people came pouring out. The few masculine guys I saw appeared to be the dancers. It was interesting to see the kids hang around, laughing and talking, rather than split the scene so quickly as they do at other clubs.
After we left CHA we decided to check out Duarte Park, since we were told that people congregate there after the clubs close. Not a soul. I reminded myself that Sunday is usually a much quieter day in Santo Domingo. People do the Malecon Libre or the beach during the day and by evening the streets are empty. So we'll have to check out Duarte Park on our next visit.
Overall, the clubs are hot!! Some changes have been made in scheduling and hours of operation due to the new liquor laws. However, a good time can still be had. If you're a night owl you will have to be more creative since things close earlier during the week. CHA has now been given permission to remain open until 3AM on the weekend.
Bar Friends was the only establishment where the numbers were sparse. I guess the buggies were not there in large numbers due to the lack of tourists. That suited me just fine. The only issue with that is the way the buggies swarm the few tourists that are present. Because it is considered the "off season" they all vye for your attention and your dollars. This is a time when one can get highly discounted rates for services.
JayDee's Disco Bar continues to be packed on Friday and Saturday nights. The Dominican gays, the buggarones and tourists keep the place jumping. They are no longer open on Sundays.
CHA, the new kid on the block, is the place to go if you want to party with the "club kids." It is a mostly young crowd that likes the high energy scene similar to clubs in New York or South Beach. Conspicuously absent is the presense of the buggies. We attempted to go on Sunday after we closed Bar Friends. The taxi driver got lost because Bolivar Avenue evidently splits and he went the wrong way. By the time we got there it was 15 minutes till closing. We sat there on the Malecon to relax and talk, when all of a sudden the doors swung open and this massive throng of people came pouring out. The few masculine guys I saw appeared to be the dancers. It was interesting to see the kids hang around, laughing and talking, rather than split the scene so quickly as they do at other clubs.
After we left CHA we decided to check out Duarte Park, since we were told that people congregate there after the clubs close. Not a soul. I reminded myself that Sunday is usually a much quieter day in Santo Domingo. People do the Malecon Libre or the beach during the day and by evening the streets are empty. So we'll have to check out Duarte Park on our next visit.
Overall, the clubs are hot!! Some changes have been made in scheduling and hours of operation due to the new liquor laws. However, a good time can still be had. If you're a night owl you will have to be more creative since things close earlier during the week. CHA has now been given permission to remain open until 3AM on the weekend.
Monday, October 15, 2007
COLONIAL ZONE
If I wrote the entire contents of my recent vacation in one post it would be much too lengthy. Therefore, I will make several posts over the next few days.
Of course when you visit Santo Domingo you can't help but view the historic structures in the Colonial Zone (regardless of how many times you have visited). Something that was painfully obvious to me on this trip was the filth in the streets and the unkept condition of many of the structures and businesses in the area (which appeared so attractive only 18 months ago). There is no doubt that the economy and the citizens of the country are suffering. I hope they are both able to have a rapid recovery once the Metro is complete and the government does not have to funnel so many resources into it.
all photos taken in the Plaza Espana area
Friday, October 12, 2007
BLOGGER ISSUES
Blogger is having problems with loading images at this time. I will try again later today.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
TIEMPO PARA VACACION
Hola everyone!! It is time for a vacation. I will be flying to Santo Domingo on tomorrow morning so here are some pics to hold you until I return. Hasta lluego!
Friday, September 28, 2007
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.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
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.
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, September 21, 2007
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
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.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
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.
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, September 14, 2007
Monday, September 10, 2007
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!!!
Saturday, September 08, 2007
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.
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