[Suvuseh]

There are so many variables I think making generalizations is as always prone to a considerable amount of inaccuracy.

1. With respect to residency, it has always been technically illegal to stay longer than a tourist visa and work here without residency. While we went ahead and secured our permanent residency immediately upon relocation, many other expats we knew saw no reason to do so. I really don't think it's fair to criticize a government for enforcing immigration regulations that are still much more lenient than elsewhere in the world.

2. The power company is certainly not without problems, but it is far from a situation that is not manageable. It just takes some effort to do so.

3. Economies are pathetic in many countries throughout the world these days and making a living anywhere as an entrepreneur is going to be difficult. Harassment by the government, police, etc. can frequently be tied to a business owner's attitudes and actions.

4. The most salient point of all is regarding the "large percentage of shifty fellow expats ripping them off". I find this to be much worse than navigating the waters of dealing with Dominican business people.

5. Permanent resident or not, I will always view myself as a guest in the Dominican Republic. As such, There is a need for a certain understanding and respect for a system that has existed for decades and is unlikely to change. Certainly not the only country in the region or world where these disparities exist and in other countries may even be worse.

6. Not much to comment on from my perspective here.

The bottom line is that nowhere in the world is perfect for everyone. I feel many people come here with completely unrealistic expectations. Over time, they get a good dose of reality, realize they can't or don't want to make the effort to live here when they though it would be effortless and then want to leave. Rather than shouldering the responsibility themselves for the failed experience, they need someone or something to blame.