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The Expat Life
Blog
Real talk on moving abroad, building relationships, and making peace with island life one story at a time.

Editor’s Picks
Handpicked stories that represent the heart of our journey — real lessons, growth, and island wisdom from Jerry & Sheila Island Living.


Safe & Sound: The 5 Best Neighborhoods in Santo Domingo for Expats (and 3 Areas to Avoid)
Discover the safest neighborhoods in Santo Domingo for expats, where to live comfortably, and which areas to avoid before renting or buying. Santo Domingo, the vibrant heart of the Dominican Republic, pulses with history, culture, and opportunity. It's a city that captivates many expats and long-term travelers with its lively atmosphere and affordability. But as with any major metropolitan area, navigating its diverse neighborhoods to find your perfect, safe haven is key to a
Jerry & Sheila Daily Blog
Dec 15, 20256 min read


If I Don’t Have Much to Offer… Can I Still Find a Genuine Dominican Woman?
A real look at dating with honesty, stability, and self-awareness. A Reality Check for Men Dating in the DR A lot of men come to the Dominican Republic confused about where they stand. They see other expats flashing money, showing off apartments, posting beach pictures—and suddenly they feel disqualified. But here’s what nobody tells you: You don’t fail in the DR because you don’t have money. You fail because you don’t have structure. And Dominican women—especially the genuin
Jerry & Sheila Daily Blog
Nov 30, 20254 min read


How to Start an Airbnb in the Dominican Republic (Beginner’s Guide)
By Jerry & Sheila Island Living Starting an Airbnb in the Dominican Republic comes with requirements, challenges, and opportunities most new hosts don’t expect. The Dominican Republic has become one of the hottest destinations for travelers—and one of the most attractive places for Airbnb investors. With millions of visitors every year, sunshine year-round, and a growing expat community, it’s easy to understand the hype. But here’s the truth most people don’t hear until it’s
Jerry & Sheila Daily Blog
Nov 17, 20254 min read


🇺🇸 Why So Many US Veterans Are Moving to the Dominican Republic 🇩🇴
By Jerry & Sheila Island Living The Real Reasons US Veterans Are Moving to the Dominican Republic A Quiet Shift You Might’ve Noticed… More and more US veterans are moving to the Dominican Republic for lower stress, affordable living, and a lifestyle shift that supports mental and financial health. After years of structure, noise, and high stress, life in the States can start to feel like it’s moving too fast. The DR gives them a chance to slow down, breathe, and rebuild life
Jerry & Sheila Daily Blog
Oct 28, 20253 min read


How to Start an Airbnb in the Dominican Republic 🇩🇴 (Beginner Guide + Real Numbers)
Thinking about starting an Airbnb in the Dominican Republic? You're not alone. With year-round tourism, low property taxes, and no citizenship required to own real estate, the DR is becoming one of the hottest destinations for expat Airbnb hosts. But before you dive in, there are a few things you need to know to make it work — and make it profitable. 🏝️ The Realities of Owning an Airbnb in the Dominican Republic From guest drama to real profits — here’s what it really takes
Jerry & Sheila Daily Blog
Jun 23, 20253 min read
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