Things I've Learned Living in the Dominican Republic (That No One Tells You)
A few everyday things I've learned while living in Dominican Republic.
Living in the Dominican Republic has taught me many lessons—most only through firsthand experience. In this article, I'm sharing some random but useful things I’ve learned that might want to know.
Don't live on the main road in the Dominican Republic
Living on a main road might make you think the whole country is loud. It’s not—it’s just your location. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve pause the TV because of roaring engines. Conversations often have to stop mid-sentence every time a loud motorcycle speeds by. That's really the only drawback, but it’s a big one. The nonstop raving of vehicle engines can get you over time.
A woman once asked how could we live on a main road—”It's like a race track!” she laughed. I couldn't un-hear that. Since then, I started referring to the main road as a race track too. At first, it wasn't such a big deal. But after awhile it got to me. Needless to say, I’m grateful to be moving to a quieter street soon.
Power outages while you're out and about? You can't prepare for that
In a past article I talked about how to prepare for a power outage at home. But what about when it happens while you're out and about? That's something that you can't prepare for.
When you're out running errands, you might not notice a power outage right away. Most stores and restaurants use backup generators, so everything keeps running like normal. I remember once coming out of the grocery store with a full cart, ready to hail a taxi—then boom, the whole plaza lost power.
Everyone stopped, looking around, trying to figure out what happened. I stayed too, just watching. Within five minutes, power came back to the plaza. On the ride home, the streetlights were still out. Thankfully, it wasn't rush hour—those get chaotic.
Yes, clothes really can get moldy here
When you think of paradise, you imagine tropical weather, warm breeze, and sunny skies—the Dominican Republic is all that. But what no one tells you is how easily your clothes can get moldy here.
We made sure our place had good airflow and stayed open and breezy. I even tried a dehumidifier. Still, clothes in the closet kept getting moldy. It was frustrating to rewash things several times without ever wearing them.
After some trial and error, what seemed to make the difference was using good-quality detergent and extra fabric softener. Since then, no more mold—clothes come out fresh, and they stay that way.
Running the AC is another alternative, but it would have to be on most of the day. I prefer the natural breeze.
Yes, Dominicans wash their fruits and veggies with soap
In the Dominican Republic, it’s common to wash fruits and vegetables with a sponge and a little soap—right over the kitchen sink, just like washing dishes. Since produce often comes fresh from farms or open markets, it can have dirt, bugs, or residue that needs scrubbing. This isn’t something typically done in North America, where most produce is pre-washed or coated with a thin layer of wax to preserve freshness on grocery shelves. But hey, when in the DR, do as the Dominicans do!
Someone cutting the line? Totally normal. Don't take it personally
I could go on, but here’s one last tip: don’t get rattled if someone cuts the line—it happens, and often. Not like grade schoolers do it, but in a more… sophisticated way, lol. Someone might walk right up to the counter and casually get the server’s attention while placing their order. A neat, orderly line in a busy Dominican restaurant? Not always. Most people gather around the food warmer, not in single file. Your best bet is to watch the flow, know your spot, and if someone tries to slide in front, politely let them know. They won’t argue.
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The only place I lived on the main drag was in Miami Beach... it was the last time... good advice for us to heed in an already normally loud part of the world.