The Dominican Republic shares the Island of Hispaniola, located between Cuba and Puerto Rico, with the Republic of Haiti. The population is 8.8 million, with about 70% living in urban areas. Services, free trade zones manufacturings and tourism are major sources of livelihood for Dominicans. The formerly dominant sugar industry is in decline, while light manufacturing, construction and tourism are increasingly important to the national economy.

Since its discovery and colonization by Spain, Hispaniola has often been troubled by unstable political conditions. A bloody revolution on the French-held western end of the island in 1791 led to the establishment of Haiti as an independent country. Haitian forces dominated the entire island from 1801 to 1802, 1804 to 1806, and 1822 to 1844, when the Dominicans rebelled and regained independence. Dominican political history remained stormy. Between 1865 and 1882 there were seven successful revolutions and 16 chief executives. Since 1966, the Dominican Republic has enjoyed political stability. Elections and changes of administration since 1994 have served as indications of an increasingly mature democracy, although economic troubles have prompted large numbers of Dominicans to immigrate to the United States.

Economic growth has been intermittent, with some periods of strong expansion. The 1990's brought rapid development of manufacturing for export, especially of garments, as well as strong growth in tourism. Massive bank frauds uncovered in 2003 were factors in financial and fiscal destabilization during 2003 and 2004. A program with the International Monetary Fund first negotiated in August 2003 and subsequently revised has been important in correcting imbalances and re-establishing growth. Population shifts from rural areas to medium-sized towns and the capital have been ongoing for decades.

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is a fast-growing port city, and its population has tripled in the last 20 years. The city's current population is estimated to be 2.7 million. Although more than one million of its inhabitants live in older, poorer sections, other areas of the city are very modern; many new apartments and office buildings are under construction, despite the 2003-2004 economic downturn. Many streets and avenues in newer sections of the city are lined with palm trees, flamboyant trees (flame trees), and flowering shrubs.

The most common complaints from Americans relate to crime, low standards of public sanitation, and the high incidence of infections and allergies in the Dominican Republic. Basic city-provided services, including sewage treatment, water, electricity, and garbage collection are below U.S. standards. While cultural differences require considerable accommodation by Americans assigned to the Dominican Republic, most enjoy their assignment here. Life in the Dominican Republic can be interesting and professionally rewarding for those who get to know the country and its culture. Dominicans are great admirers of the United States, and they are generally friendly and hospitable towards Americans.

The Host Country

Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 7/26/2005 9:54 AM

The Dominican Republic occupies the eastern two-thirds of the Island of Hispaniola, the second largest of the Greater Antilles group, after Cuba. The Dominican Republic is bordered on the north by the Atlantic Ocean, on the south by the Caribbean Sea, and on the east by the Mona Passage, which separates Hispaniola from Puerto Rico, 71 miles away. In the west it shares a land border with the Republic of Haiti.

The Dominican Republic has a land area of 18,712 square miles, slightly larger than Vermont and New Hampshire combined. The country, with its 1,000-mile coastline, extends about 240 miles from east to west and has a maximum north-south width of about 170 miles.

Much of the terrain is rugged. Four nearly parallel mountain ranges transverse the country from northwest to southeast. The Cordillera Central is the largest range and divides the country into almost equal parts. Pico Duarte is the highest mountain in the West Indies at 10,128 feet. The largest and most fertile valley, the Cibao, is in the upper central part of the country and is approximately 150 miles long by 10-30 miles wide.

Dominican rivers vary in flow with the season and are only navigable for short distances at their mouths, if at all. Their main use is for irrigation and hydroelectric power. Major rivers in the Dominican Republic are the Ozama, Yaque del Norte, Yaque del Sur, La Isabela, Higuamo, and Soco. The climate varies little year round. Although the country is in the tropics, constant trade winds keep temperatures from frequently exceeding 90F. Temperatures in its coastal cities average about 78F, with seasonal variations of 5-8 degrees.

Rainfall varies regionally with about two-thirds of the annual 57 inches in the capital falling in the rainy season from May to November. Mildew, mold, rust, and insects are problems due to year-round high humidity. Furniture, clothing, leather goods, metal items, and books must be carefully aired and protected. The climate also contributes to the prevalence of upper respiratory infections, skin irritations, fungus, stomach, and intestinal complaints. Often homes are plagued with leaks due to heavy rainfall.

Hurricanes are a significant weather threat, particularly from June through October, and have caused serious damage in the past. The worst hurricane on record, San Zenón, which virtually destroyed Santo Domingo, occurred in 1930. Hurricanes David and Frederick, in August-September 1979, caused considerable damage to the city and countryside. In September of 1998, Hurricane George had a devastating impact on the country. The U.S. Government donated $96 million to help the country in areas such as health, housing, economic reactivation, food, disaster mitigation, prevention, and preparation. In this effort, several U.S. Government agencies, led by USAID, collaborated closely with host country government agencies.

Hispaniola is adjacent to tectonic fault lines and is rated zone 3 (high risk) for seismic activity. Although there has not been a strong earthquake since 1948, tremors occur occasionally in the country and the possibility of a strong quake is always present.

Population Last Updated: 7/26/2005 9:56 AM

Over half of the Dominican Republic's 8.5 million inhabitants live in towns with populations over 10,000. Dominican cities are growing rapidly. The largest is Santo Domingo with a population of 2.5 million. The second largest city, Santiago de los Caballeros, has a population of slightly over 700,000.

Recent statistics indicate that the nation's population density of approximately 430 persons per square mile makes it the seventh most densely populated country in the Latin America/Caribbean region. Population pressure is accentuated by an annual growth rate of 1.6%. Approximately 38% of the population is under 18 years of age.

The nation's population is generally comprised of descendants of both early Spanish settlers and African slaves. Most recently, many immigrants have come from other European countries and the Middle East. An estimated 15% of the population is Caucasian, another 15% Black, and the remaining 70% is mixed Caucasian and Black. No traces of aboriginal Indians exist.

Spanish is the national language. It is spoken quite rapidly in the Dominican Republic and many idioms and contractions are used. English is known by many of the upper socioeconomic segment of the society. However, it is difficult to function without at least a basic knowledge of Spanish, as most servants and other service sector employees, as well as lower ranking Embassy employees, speak only Spanish.

Under a 1954 accord with the Vatican, Roman Catholicism was formally established as the state religion and the Dominican Government provides some financial support to the church. Many Protestant denominations and missions, as well as churches of other faiths are found here.

The nation's patron saint is Our Lady of Las Mercedes. The spiritual mother of all Dominicans is Our Lady of La Altagracia, named after a vision of the Virgin Mary reportedly seen in the eastern part of the island in 1921.

The Dominican Republic does not have a large landholding class. A small, but growing number of wealthy people dominate the country's social structure. For many years this group held what little economic power the ruling Trujillo family (1930-61) did not monopolize. The preponderance of the Trujillo family in both the economic realm and in government ended in 1961, but some of the social patterns it established continue to linger. Upward mobility is geared largely to the acquisition of wealth, although increasing importance is being placed on education and professional achievement.

Two small groups top the social scale. One is composed of persons whose extensive rural properties were not expropriated under the Trujillo dictatorship. They have used this land to gain leadership in commerce and industry. This group is found around the northern cities of Santiago and Puerto Plata, although many maintain second homes in Santo Domingo. The second group includes former civil servants and military officials who attained prominence and wealth under previous governments.

About three-quarters of the Dominican population is at the lower end of the socioeconomic scale. Most earn low wages which, combined with an informal family support system, make daily life possible. They have minimal education, live in substandard conditions, are about one-third rural, and are migrating to urban areas in the hope of improving their lot by serving as domestics or laborers. Although construction and public works projects employ substantial numbers of unskilled laborers in the urban areas, new employment opportunities have not been sufficient to offset the growing demand for jobs (roughly 120,000 people per year). Recently, more semi-skilled jobs have been created in manufacturing free trade zones and in the tourism industry. It is estimated that nearly 45% of the available labor force is unemployed or underemployed.

For many Dominicans, emigration is a viable and greatly desired alternative to remaining in the Dominican Republic. Although the number seeking to enter the U.S., Venezuela, Canada, and Europe is increasing, this outflow is partially offset by the significant illegal immigration of Haitians to the Dominican Republic. The issue of visas for travel or emigration to the United States is brought up by every level of Dominican society. Some employees, especially those working in the Consular Section, find they are regularly queried outside the Embassy about visa or citizenship problems.

Public Institutions Last Updated: 7/20/2005 2:53 PM

History

The island of Hispaniola, of which the Dominican Republic forms the eastern two-thirds and Haiti the remainder, was originally occupied by Tainos, an Arawak-speaking people. The Tainos welcomed Columbus in 1492. However, within 50 years they became virtually extinct as a result of European diseases and harsh treatment by the Spanish. To ensure adequate labor for plantations, the Spanish brought African slaves to the island beginning in 1503.

In the next century, the French occupied the western end of the island, which Spain ceded to France in 1697, and which, in 1804, became the Republic of Haiti. The Haitians conquered the whole island in 1822 and held it until 1844, when forces led by Juan Pablo Duarte, the hero of Dominican independence, drove them out and established the Dominican Republic as an independent state. In 1861, the Dominicans voluntarily returned to the Spanish Empire, but in 1865, independence was again restored. Economic difficulties, threats of European intervention, and ongoing internal disorders led to a U.S. military occupation from 1916 to 1924, when a democratically elected Dominican Government took office.

In 1930, Rafael L. Trujillo, a prominent army commander, seized political control. Trujillo promoted economic development from which he and his supporters benefited; however, over time mismanagement and corruption resulted in major economic problems. The regime severely repressed human rights. In August 1960, the Organization of American States (OAS) imposed diplomatic sanctions against the Dominican Republic as a result of Trujillo's complicity in an attempt to assassinate President Romulo Betancourt of Venezuela. These sanctions remained in force after Trujillo's assassination in May 1961. In November 1961, the Trujillo family was forced into exile.

In January 1962, a council of state with legislative and executive powers, which included moderate opposition elements, was formed. OAS sanctions were lifted January 4, and after the resignation of President Joaquin Balaguer on January 16, the council under President Rafael E. Bonnelly assumed control of the Dominican government. In 1963, following an election, Juan Bosch was inaugurated President, but he was overthrown in a military coup in September 1963.

Another military coup, on April 24, 1965, led to violence between military elements favoring the restoration of Bosch and those who proposed a military junta committed to early general elections. On April 28, a U.S.-led Inter-American Peace Force intervened to protect foreign nationals and restore order.

In June 1966, Joaquin Balaguer, leader of the Reformist Party (now called the Social Christian Reformist Party-PRSC), was elected President. He was re-elected in 1970 and 1974, both times after the major opposition parties withdrew late in the campaign. In the 1978 election, Balaguer was defeated in his bid for a fourth successive term by Antonio Guzman of the Dominican Revolutionary Party (PRD). Guzman's inauguration marked the country's first peaceful transfer of power from one freely elected president to another.

The PRD's presidential candidate, Salvador Jorge Blanco, won the 1982 elections, and the PRD gained a majority in both houses of Congress. In an attempt to cure the ailing economy, the Jorge administration began to implement economic adjustment and recovery policies, including an austerity program in cooperation with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). In April 1984, rising prices of basic foodstuffs and uncertainty about the austerity measures led to riots.

Balaguer was returned to the presidency with electoral victories in 1986 and 1990. Upon taking office in 1986, he sought to reactivate the economy through a public works construction program. However, by 1988 the country had slid into a two-year economic depression, characterized by high inflation, and currency devaluation. Economic difficulties, coupled with problems in the delivery of basic services such as electricity, water and transportation generated popular discontent expressed in frequent protests, occasionally violent, including a paralyzing nationwide strike in June 1989.

From the early1990's, various economic reforms resulted in economic growth marked by moderate inflation, a balance in external accounts, and a steadily increasing GDP. In 2003-2004, the economy contracted as a result of a financial and fiscal crisis, provoked by the fraud-related collapse of three banks. A change of administration, a renegotiated IMF standby agreement, compliance with IMF targets, renegotiation of sovereign debt, and sharply improved business confidence fostered a modest renewal of growth from late 2004.

Although the elections of 1986 and 1990 were generally seen as fair, allegations of electoral board fraud tainted both. The elections of 1994 were again marred by charges of fraud, confirmed by international observers. Following a compromise calling for constitutional and electoral reform, President Balaguer assumed office for an abbreviated term. In 1996, Leonel Fernandez Reyna of the Dominican Liberation Party was elected to a four-year term as president. In 2000 Hipolito Mejia of the PRD was elected president. Elections since 1996 have been considered fair and generally free of fraud.

Government and Political Conditions

The Dominican Republic is a representative democracy with national powers divided among executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The president appoints the cabinet, executes laws passed by the legislative branch, and is commander in chief of the armed forces. The president and vice president run for office on the same ticket and are elected by direct vote for four-year terms.

Legislative power is exercised by a bicameral congress-the Senate (32 members), and the 150-member Chamber of Deputies. Presidential elections are held in years evenly divisible by four while Congressional and municipal elections are held in even- numbered years not divisible by four.

Under constitutional reforms negotiated after the 1994 elections, the 16-member Supreme Court of Justice is appointed by a National Judicial Council, made up of the president, the leaders of both houses of Congress, the presiding justice of the Supreme Court, and members nominated by Congress. The Supreme Court has sole jurisdiction over actions against the president, designated members of his cabinet, and members of Congress.

The Supreme Court hears appeals from lower courts and chooses their members. Each of the 32 provinces is headed by a presidentially appointed governor. Elected mayors and municipal councils administer the National District (Santo Domingo) and country's 135 municipalities.

The Dominican Republic has a multi-party political system with national elections every four years. In two rounds of presidential elections in 1996 and 2000, nearly 80% of eligible Dominican voters went to the polls; in 2004 turnout was 72%.

The military consists of about 42,000 active duty personnel commanded by the president. Its principal mission is to defend the nation, but it serves more as an internal security force. The army, twice as large as the other services combined, consists of six infantry brigades and a combat support brigade. The air force operates three squadrons. The navy maintains 30 vessels. In the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic's military is second in size to Cuba's.

The armed forces participate fully in counter-narcotics efforts. They also are active in efforts to control contraband and illegal immigration from Haiti to the Dominican Republic and from the Dominican Republic to the United States.

Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 7/25/2005 2:52 PM

The Dominican Republic is very conscious of the role of culture in civilized society. Issues of national identity, what it means to be a Dominican, have taken center stage as Dominicans try to define themselves as global players in an ever-stronger open democracy. The organization of the Dominican-American community as a political force within the U.S. has invigorated discussion of national identity issues and the cross flow of immigrants and returnees has influenced self-definition. Located between Puerto Rico and Cuba, vestiges of the Cold War long played out in cultural and educational spheres have given way to an increasingly global reality.

In recent years the interest in Taino culture has increased. Although a relatively new interest in the enormous influences of African slaves has emerged, Dominican culture remains tainted by serious racism and racial discrimination, especially towards Haitians or other dark skinned black people, including Dominicans. Racial discrimination, although not widely acknowledged, is widely and openly practiced.

History is palpable here and there are stories still to be unearthed and told not only about the Colonial Zone and the Trujillo era, but about the songs of the cane workers, the retuals of the believers of Santeria, and the traditions of gaga dancers and drummers. Federick Douglass served as Consul General to the Dominican Republic and his photograph hangs in the Chancery along with photographs of other ambassadors who have served at this Post since diplomatic ties were established in the mid-1800s.

The Dominican Republic abounds with fine artists and many Dominicans decorate their homes with wall-to-wall art. New York is a draw for talented artists and an AA degree program run by Parsons School of Design at Altos de Chavon near La Romana enables talented young Dominican artists to complete BA studies at Parson's NYC campus. The school attracts top artists in residence from the U.S. and abroad and runs art classes in everything from photography to fashion design at both its Altos de Chavon and Santo Domingo centers. There are many commercial galleries where one can see changing exhibitions and the Drawing Museum offers courses for children. An art exhibition sponsored by the Leon Jimenez Company is held in even numbered years both in Santiago and Santo Domingo. There are two film festivals each year of varying subject matter, usually of Spanish language films. Dominican folk art is heavily influenced by Haitian work, but if one explores the inner sanctums of the Mercado Modelo, one can find truly Dominican folk art and carvings amid the imports. Many foreigners become enamored of the classic Dominican rocking chair, which until recently, could be found on every porch or door stoop. Hanging out at the nearby colmado (corner store) to play dominos is an undeniable part of the popular local scene.

The government operates a number of museums including the Museum of Man, the Museum of Modern Art, the Natural History Museum, the Museum of History and Geography, the National Archives, National Aquarium and the National Library. Privately owned museums open to the public include the Arevelo Collection of Taino materials and the Bellapart Museum of Dominican 19th and 20th century art. Descriptive information is scarce in most government museums, which are in a general state of disrepair, but with some advance study using the many resources available at the Embassy’s Information Resource Center (IRC) one can enjoy local museums.

Since opening in 1992, the Aquarium, along the seacoast between Santo Domingo and Las Americas airport, has become a popular destination giving visitors an in depth look at the sea surrounding Hispaniola. The Botanical Gardens, called the lungs of Santo Domingo, has been named one of the "World's Top Ten Botanical Gardens" by the prestigious Kew Gardens of London. They have annual orchid and bonsai exhibitions as well as public education programming.

There's a lively music scene marked by the omnipresent beat of merengue rhythms popularized in the U.S. by Grammy winning musicians like Juan Luis Guerra, Wilfrido Vargas and Santo Domingo Mayor Johnny Ventura. Bachata, Dominican country music, is heard in the countryside. It has different dance steps than the merengue, and vocalizes the concerns of the campesino that has lost his wife, his dog, and his car. Whatever the style, music is loved in the D.R. There is a National Symphony with a 15-week season and a biennial International Music Festival held in March of odd numbered years, attracts top-flight U.S. and European artists. Opera, classical, and modern dance have lively seasons bringing top international talent, and theater offers Spanish language versions of popular Broadway shows, as well as Off-Broadway and European works.

For many years cultural elites looked towards France and Spain as the models in literature, theater, and music, but now U.S. influence is predominant. The popularization of Dominican American writers like Julia Alvarez (In the Time of the Butterflies, and How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents), Junot Diaz (Negocios, and Drown) and Haitian-American author Edwidge Danticat (The Farming of Bones) support the new renaissance of Dominican literature in the past characterized by the works of Manual Rueda, Jose Alcantara, Pedro Vargas and Marcio Veloz Maggiolo. Subjects cover the Trujillo era, colonization, immigration, and the prickly relationship with Haiti. Bookstores offering gourmet coffee, reading areas and conversation are springing up. Dominican university academics and intellectuals associated with think tanks examine economic, cultural, and political issues on television talk shows and in special features in daily newspapers.

The Dominican Republic boasts the oldest established institution of learning in the Americas, which was started shortly after Columbus came to the New World. Public education is attainable through the university level, but the great majority of Dominicans are proud to graduate from the eighth grade. Literacy is estimated to be at 83%. Dominicans are supportive of increased and improved educational opportunities and are striving to learn English and technological skills. Business and education partnerships are forming and the government is committed to improve the educational situation. At the same time, middle and upper class families avail themselves of the many educational opportunities offered in the United States and by private schools. Private vocational and technical schools have been established to meet the demands for skilled workers in the Free Trade Zones and in the tourism industry. Increasingly, Pan-Caribbean programs and educational linkages are being established to broker the strength of the smaller Caribbean island nations in garnering international education support for the region.

Educational opportunities in the hard sciences are found in the United States. The Dominican Republic does not offer a Ph.D. in any subject. There are medical schools here that are popular for Spanish-speaking foreign students. Hard work by the national accreditation commission has closed several medical schools that did not meet rigorous quality standards.

Natural science, as an integral part of Dominican society, is evidenced by the number of non-profit organizations involved in the environmental movement. There are over 20 native birds, a rich variety of reef dwellers, nesting turtles and manatees. The D.R. still has several rain forests, a system of natural parks and stellar caves filled with petroglyphs and pictographs created by the Amer-Indians who greeted Christopher Columbus in 1492.

Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 7/20/2005 3:21 PM

The Dominican economic situation deteriorated in 2003 when GDP growth was ¡V0.4%, inflation reached 43%, and the exchange rate reached an all-time high of RD$50 to US$1. However, a new administration was sworn into office in 2004 and there are already visible signs of growth, including an expansion among the country¡¦s banks. In fact, GDP grew in 2004 by two percent and the Dominican peso has appreciated to approximately RD$29 to US$1. Due to the devaluation and the negative GDP growth, the GDP per capita was reduced from $2,386 in 2002 to $1,896 in 2004. For 2005, the GDP is estimated to grow 3.5% with an estimated inflation of 9%. The sectors of the Dominican economy that have experienced the largest growth are: Communications (22.0%); Commerce (11.6%); Hotels, Bars, and Restaurants (9.3%); Transportation (8.1%); Manufacturing (4.5%); and, Agriculture and Livestock (3.7%). These sectors represent 69.0% of GDP.

Foreign direct investment in the last few years has been largely concentrated in tourism, free trade zone activity, electricity generation and communications. The Dominican government has made a concerted effort to attract new investment, taking advantage of the new foreign investment law and of the country's natural and human resources. The decision to privatize or "capitalize" ailing state enterprises (electricity, airport management, sugar) has attracted substantial foreign capital to these sectors.

In the Western Hemisphere, the Dominican Republic is the sixth largest trading partner of the United States (following Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Venezuela and Colombia). Furthermore, the Dominican Republic is the 28th largest commercial partner of the United States in the world. In 2004, the bilateral trade between the United States and the Dominican Republic reached 8.86 billion dollars reflecting a roughly balanced trade. Some 85 percent of Dominican exports are to the United States and 55.3 percent of Dominican imports are coming from the Unites States.

If the Central American Free Trade Agreement-DR is ratified by both U.S. and Dominican Congresses, there will be significant additional opportunities for U.S. exporters. Key U.S. export sectors that will benefit most from immediate duty elimination include information technology products, paper products, agricultural and construction equipment, wood, medical & scientific equipment, and pharmaceuticals.

Transportation

Automobiles Last Updated: 7/26/2005 9:59 AM

An automobile contributes immensely to making life in the Dominican Republic more pleasant. Because public bus transportation is poor and not advisable within Santo Domingo for official American families, automobiles are needed for home-to-office transportation, shopping, and other daily activities. Automobiles may be imported from the U.S. or shipped from a previous post. Most American and foreign makes are sold here, and can be purchased tax-free, but delivery times are quite long. Although it is possible to buy used cars in Santo Domingo, there is no procedure for refund of duty paid, making them significantly more expensive than in the U.S.

Most of the time, sedan-type cars suffice for transportation in cities and on main highways between them. Sport Utility Vehicles are very popular in the Dominican Republic. While not a necessity, their higher clearance is a benefit when encountering street flooding caused by the city's inadequate drainage systems during frequent, heavy rains.

Only unleaded gasoline and diesel fuel are sold in the Dominican Republic. The Mission's employee association also operates a gas pump at the Chancery property. Catalytic converters should not be removed before entering the Dominican Republic.

Repair service is available on most U.S. and foreign cars. Routine work such as oil change and tune up is reasonable, but major repairs can mean delays while parts are ordered. Service for major repairs is, by comparison, less expensive than in the U.S., and work quality is fair. Automatic transmission and electrical system repairs, work on window and door fittings, and other jobs requiring a delicate touch are sometimes risky, depending upon the garage used. Ask those who have been longer at post for suggestions on auto repair shops before having work done.

Dominican drivers licenses are required for all Mission members and eligible family members over 16 who will be operating any type of motor vehicle. International driver's licenses are not valid in the Dominican Republic. Persons without a valid U.S. license must take a written exam in Spanish and a road test to qualify for a license. They must also provide a doctor's certificate of physical fitness and show proof of having passed a vision test. These can be arranged through the Office of Human Resources and must accompany the license application. A fee is charged for the Medical Association stamp affixed to the certificate, and there is a small fee associated with the cost of the application form. Personnel should bring their latest vision test results (page 4 OF-264 Medical Report), obtained from the Department Medical Division or the last post that conducted a departure medical examination. Otherwise, a vision test may be done at the Medical Unit without charge. Diplomatic license plates are obtained without charge through the General Services Office.

Post advises Mission employees to arrange for third party liability insurance with a local company as required by Dominican law. However, it is recommended that all American employees with cars carry additional liability coverage of $10,000 to $150,000. Post strongly recommends that individuals arrange with a U.S. company for collision insurance. A few U.S. carriers are permitted to underwrite in the Dominican Republic. The General Services Office can suggest names of local and U.S. companies.

Remember: Driving can be hazardous due to the unpredictable driving habits of Dominicans. Good defensive driving skills are a MUST.

Local Transportation Last Updated: 7/26/2005 10:02 AM

The Dominican Republic has no public railways. Private car lines and bus companies connect outlying cities to each other and to the capital. Air-conditioned express buses run daily from Santo Domingo to Bonao, La Vega, Moca, Santiago, Puerto Plata, San Pedro de Macoris, La Romana, and other towns in the interior on regular schedules.

Municipal public cars (personal cars used as "taxis") called publicos, city buses and private minibuses have regular routes throughout the city. Publicos cruise certain streets, picking up as many passengers as the car will hold. Buses stop along streets at designated markers. Publicos and mini buses are often in poor mechanical condition, and Americans are advised to avoid them for safety reasons. Private taxis are available through call-a-cab services.

Traffic moves on the right. Traffic laws are similar to those in the U.S., but are generally not obeyed. Local drivers are aggressive, do not maintain lane discipline, and often drive the wrong way on one-way streets. Drive defensively! Traffic lights often do not function and police often control busy intersections; when they are not present, gridlock ensues.

Santo Domingo is the hub of a fairly extensive road network. A hard-surfaced, four-lane highway leads from the capital to the international airport and to the closer beach areas east of the city. It then narrows to two lanes from there to the resort areas of La Romana and Punta Cana further east. A good, though heavily traveled, four-lane highway connects Santo Domingo with Santiago de los Caballeros - the nation's second largest city - and the vacation city of Puerto Plata on the north coast. There is a two-lane highway connecting Puerto Plata eastward to the Samana Peninsula. Road networks throughout the republic are improving. Blacktop and graveled roads connect many outlying communities; however, rural roads and bridges are often in poor condition. Vehicles with heavy-duty suspension and four-wheel drive are generally required in rural areas off the main highways. Travel at night outside the city should be avoided due to animals and sinkholes in the roadway, broken down vehicles, and vehicles driving without lights.

Most Santo Domingo streets are blacktop, and their condition ranges from excellent to very poor. The city has several divided boulevards. Most streets, particularly in the downtown shopping area, are narrow, permitting only one-way traffic. Manhole covers are frequently several inches below street surface, and are a definite road hazard. There are many speed bumps throughout the city.

Regional Transportation Last Updated: 7/22/2005 2:30 PM

Santo Domingo's international airport is served by a number of U.S. and foreign airlines with direct service to the United States, Europe, and other hemisphere countries. Air charter service is available from Herrera Airport in Santo Domingo. Several private companies in Santo Domingo offer chartered, air-conditioned bus tours for groups. Passenger and cargo ships call at Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata, and Haina. A passenger/car ferry operates between Santo Domingo and Mayaguez, Puerto Rico twice a week. Its cost is about the same as airfare. Freight lines of various registries call at Santo Domingo from all parts of the world.

Communications

Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 7/20/2005 3:18 PM

Residential telephone service is reliable and inexpensive in Santo Domingo. Verizon provides home service at $19-24 per month for unlimited minutes of local calls. Another company, Centennial, provides long-distance service at an economical rate of approximately 3.30 pesos per minute to the U.S. and 3.00 pesos anywhere in the world. The Embassy switchboard can help arrange accounts. Personal and official phone bills are delivered to the switchboard for distribution to customers.

Digital cellular phones programmed in the U.S. or other countries usually do not work in the Dominican Republic. Purchase your cellular phone in Santo Domingo. Codetel, Tricom, Centennial, and France Telcom offer cellular service in the Dominican Republic. Various package plans exist in combination with home service and Internet. Average monthly rates for cellular service is US$25 for 100 minutes.

National, international, and Internet pager service is available from Verison and Tricom.

The Embassy phone number is (809) 221-2171. The Embassy switchboard is staffed from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. It is closed on American and Dominican holidays. There are automated recordings for working hours and for non-working hours and holidays. Callers can always reach the Marine Security Guard at Post One by dialing (809) 731-4398. The International Voice Gateway switchboard number is 848-0000; if you know your party's four-digit extension number, substitute it for the 0000 to dial direct.

The Telegraphic Address is AMEMBASSY SANTO DOMINGO. The Mission has several fax machines. The main Embassy fax, located in the chancery reception area is (809) 686-7437.

Internet Last Updated: 7/20/2005 3:10 PM

Internet Service Providers (ISP) charge about US$15-20 per month for dial-up service of basic connectivity, up to 56K. Other package plans, (e.g., Verison's VIP plan for cell phone and Internet combination, or for more on-line time and higher speeds) are offered by a dozen ISPs in Santo Domingo. Digital Subscriber Lines (e.g., Flash) are available in certain parts of the city and are priced between US$25-35 per month.

Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 7/13/2005 2:29 PM

International mail is very unreliable and can take several weeks to arrive from the U.S. East Coast. The Mission has an APO (APO AA 34041) that is available for direct-hire American employees and their families. APO delivery is sometimes by space-available, so delivery time can be unpredictable, especially during the holiday season.

Send personal mail via the APO, not via the State Department's diplomatic pouch service. Official and semi-official (e.g., FSI training manuals) correspondence to the Department or other Foreign Service posts is permitted in the diplomatic pouch.

The APO facility operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Each office and agency has a keyed exterior mailbox accessible at any time. Window service is available from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, except for local and American holidays. Mail is received most workdays in the late afternoon, and distributed the next day. Outgoing mail generally takes more time to reach the addressee than incoming mail, because of customs inspection in Miami.

There are several authorized mail drops throughout the Mission for stamped outgoing personal mail. Peace Corps volunteers and some U.S. government contract employees are not authorized to use the APO. These employees should contact their agencies for mailing information.

The APO is under the supervision of the Military Assistance and Advisory Group. Stamps, certified mail, parcels, limited insurance, first-class, and Priority Mail services are available. There is no registered mail service. You should instruct mailers that the U.S. Postal Service does not send Registered Mail to this APO facility. The combined length and girth of packages is limited to 108 inches. Maximum weight is 70 pounds. Transit time for first class mail is 3 to 10 days; parcels can take 2 weeks.

Newly assigned personnel should verify their unit number for APO mail. Your unit number will also be provided in the welcome to Santo Domingo cable from the Administrative Section once you are assigned. Below are the correct three-line address pattern and unit codes that should be used as an address on incoming mail and as a return address on outgoing mail. Failure to use the correct format could result in delay or return of correspondence by the U.S. Postal Service.

Sample: John Diplomat Unit #### APO AA 34041-####

Do not include the words American Embassy in your address. Unit numbers follow.

The Unit numbers and Box numbers are as follows:

Unit Box Section 5503 519 ITC 5504 518 IPC 5506 517 IMO 5509 504 AMB 5509 505 DCM 5510 503 ECON 5511 501 MSG 5512 502 CLO 5514 506 DEA 5514 507 TAT 5515 508 FCS 5516 520 PCS 5517 509 AERP 5519 503 POL 5520 510 FMO 5521 538 USMS 5524 511 MGT 5524 512 RSO 5524 513 HR 5526 521 GSO 5526 522 GSO (Whse) 5526 523 GSO (B&M) 5527 524 APHIS 5529 514 SAA 5530 525 FAS 5531 515 DAO 5536 516 Med. Unit 5537 541/560 Military Retirees 5539 526/527 MAAG 5541 528/529 AID 5542 530/531 CONS 5542 532 DHS 5543 533/534 PA 5544 535 CMS 5544 539 LEGAT 5545 536 COPE 5537 537 APO

Radio and TV Last Updated: 7/25/2005 2:27 PM

The Dominican Republic has about 200 AM and FM radio stations. Programs include call-in talk shows, newscasts, interviews, easy listening, and contemporary music. There are various FM stations with American music and very limited classical music. Good short-wave radios can pick up Voice of America, BBC, and stations from Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and Florida.

Santo Domingo has six privately owned VHF TV stations. Radio Television Dominicana is government owned. Programs include local and international news, weather, sports, variety shows, movies, soap operas, and dramatic serials produced in Latin America and the United States.

U.S. TV sets can be used in Santo Domingo without modification. Bring sets with you. Prices here are higher than in the U.S. Most Embassy personnel subscribe to a cable service, which currently features CNN, ABC, CBS, NBC, and other channels. Current cost is approximately US $250 per year. Also, satellite dishes are allowed in the country. It is necessary to have at least a 4-foot satellite dish, as the smaller DSS 18" dishes will not function here.

The Dominican Government grants licenses to ham operators who have U.S. issued permits. Licenses can be obtained from the Office of the Director General of Telecommunications. Normally, tests are not conducted. If you have a current U.S. license, your application will be expedited.

Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated: 7/25/2005 3:16 PM

The major Spanish-language dailies published in Santo Domingo are Listin Diario, Hoy, El Caribe, El Nuevo Diario, El Nacional, El Dia and Diario Libre. All, except El Dia, have on-line editions available via Internet. Some of these papers subscribe to Associated Press, United Press International, or other international news services. The publications listed are available from street vendors, newsstands, or by subscription.

The Miami Herald, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and New York Times generally arrive in Santo Domingo the afternoon of the day of publication or the following day. Subscriptions or office delivery can be arranged locally. Copies can also be purchased at a few newsstands.

Santo Domingo has also experienced a boom in on-line news sources, which can be accessed via the Internet. The most important ones are: Clave Digital (http://www.clavedigital.com.do/index.ASP), Diario@Diario (http://64.224.183.242/) and Circulo de Lectores (http://www.circulo-lectores.com/nps/.)

Health and Medicine

Medical Facilities Last Updated: 7/26/2005 10:35 AM

The Mission runs an outpatient Health Unit staffed by a Foreign Service Health Practitioner (FSHP), one full-time RN, one part-time RN, and a part-time secretary. The Regional Medical Officeris located in Ft. Lauderdale and visits post on a periodic basis. The Health Unit is open to U.S. Government employees and their eligible family members at post. It is also available to Foreign Service National employees for occupational health care.

The Medical Unit is set up to deal with acute and chronic medical problems similar to that provided in a physician's office in the U.S. There is a small pharmacy with medications to treat acute problems. The Health Unit does not stock medications for chronic conditions. If you have chronic prescription medicine requirements, you should bring an adequate supply to post or arrange to have them shipped from the U.S. There are a number of pharmacies in the D.R., but the quality of the medications dispensed cannot be guaranteed.

The Health Practitioner is available for consultation and treatment, and if necessary, will refer patients t medical specialists in Santo Domingo. The Health Unit also has available two post medical advisors who provide care when necessary and take call when the FSHP is unavailable. A complete referal list of physician providers is maintained in the Health Unit. Although many speak English and have trained in the U.S., practice standards equivalent to those received in CONUS are not guaranteed. Hospitalization can be provided for urgent cases at private medical clinics. Hospital care is not comparable to the U.S. and is not recommended on an elective basis. When suitable medical care is not locally available for urgent medical conditions, authorization is provided for medicla evacuation to Miami or to other destinations (on a cost constructive basis) for definitive medical care. Under DOD regulations, the medical evacuation point for military members and their families may be different. Competent routine dental care as well as orthodontic care is available in Santo Domingo.

Community Health Last Updated: 7/20/2005 3:49 PM

The Dominican Republic is considered a Third World country and sanitary conditions are well below those found in the U.S. City water is not potable, but bottled water is readily available. US Embassy personnel receive home water delivery twice weekly. Garbage collection is sporadic, and litter is commonplace, therefore the insect and rodent population is difficult to control. Extermination services are provided through GSO, as needed. Many restaurants in Santo Domingo offer fine and safe cuisine, but one must be cautious, because sanitary standards are not uniformly practiced. The same is true when purchasing food. Because electrical service is unreliable, constant refridgeration of perishables is not guaranteed in stores. Especially with frozen foods, there is frequent evidence of thawing and re-freezing. There are modern supermarkets in Santo Domingo, but even in these, care must be taken to ensure the safety of food products. Falciparum malaria and Dengue fever are present in the country although malaria prophylaxia is not required in the resort communities or the captal city. Beach areas in the city have fecal contamination and should not be used.

Preventive Measures Last Updated: 7/20/2005 3:54 PM

Diseases which affect the local population which include intestinal parasites, viral gastroenteritis, bacterial gastroenteritis, dengue fever, hepatitis, tuberculosis, AIDS, and in rural areas, malaria. The Dominican Republic has one of the highest rates of HIV and tuberculosis in Latin America. The consistent practice of sanitary precautions is the best way of maintaining good health while posted here. A Health Unit orientation is given to all new arrivals. In addition to the routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, and meningitis are recommended before coming to post. Immunizations are available in the Health Unit. Routine malaria prophylaxis is not necessary unless you are on the Haitian border or in remote areas of the countryside.

Sun exposure is constant and measures to prevent sunburn are essential. It is recommended that sunscreen with SPF>15 be applied daily prior to going out and re-applied frequently as necessary. Hats, protective clothing, and sunglasses are also encouraged.

Fruits and vegetables to be eaten raw should be washed and rinsed in a bleach solution. It is not advised to eat local, shallow water fish due to the presence of ciguatera, a fish neurotoxin present throughout the Caribbean. Deep-water fish such as tuna, shark, marlin, salmon, and others are usually safe. Shellfish is imported and safe. Red meat, pork, and chicken are safe when cooked well.

Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 7/27/2005 8:59 AM

Employment opportunities in the Dominican Republic local economy are limited. There is a high unemployment rate and the local law requires that at least 70% of the work force be of Dominican nationality. Exceptions are those jobs available exclusively in managerial positions, and technical workers when, in the judgment of the Labor Department, there are no unemployed Dominicans who are qualified to carry out the technical work involved. The labor market is particularly difficult for those spouses wishing to pursue career-enhancing positions in professional fields. American family members can work on the local market, although pay levels on both the professional and nonprofessional levels are so low that some eligible family members feel that it is not worth their time to work.

There are a limited number of positions available within the Embassy. These positions are filled according to the new WHA/LE recruitment policy.

Members of Household (MOHs) will be considered for positions at Post (e.g. PIT, PSC, PSA, and FSN positions) as appropriate for their citizenship. In cases where more than one candidates is fully qualified for a position, Eligible Family Member and veteran preferences will be respected, consistent with the FAM. Post will provide MOHs guidance, upon request, in obtaining work permits if a work permit is required to compete for positions at post.

American Embassy - Santo Domingo

Post City Last Updated: 2/3/2004 10:26 AM

Santo Domingo, the largest city of the Dominican Republic, and the oldest in the New World, serves as the commercial, social, cultural and political hub of the country as well as its principal seaport. The partially restored remains of the 16th century city form a picturesque colonial zone overlooking the Ozama River. The 19th century portions of the city reflect Caribbean traditions, while the Art Deco influence dominates in early 20th century structures. Except for the period 1936–61, when the city was called Cuidad Trujillo, the name of Santo Domingo has endured. Santo Domingo is a city of pleasant tree-lined streets offering modern shopping centers and supermarkets as well as the traditional corner colmados or convenience stores.

Security Last Updated: 5/24/2005 2:17 PM

Santo Domingo is considered a "High" crime post. Street robberies, vehicle break-ins, home burglaries, credit card fraud, pick-pocketing, and ATM fraud are all common types of crime that affect the people living and working in Santo Domingo. Embassy personnel can minimize their chances of being victimized by crime by becoming aware of their surroundings and taking reasonable security precautions. All mission personnel are required to attend a security briefing given by the Regional Security Office when they arrive.

Although Santo Domingo is designated a "High" crime post, most criminal incidents do not involve violence. Contact the Regional Security Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo for more specific information.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 2/3/2004 10:14 AM

The U.S. Mission includes personnel of the Department of State, the Agency for International Development (USAID), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Foreign Commercial Service (FCS), the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), the Defense Attache Office (DAO), the Military Assistance and Advisory Group (MAAG), the Peace Corps (PC), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), the Animal Plant Health and Inspection Service (APHIS), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The Mission occupies eight buildings in Santo Domingo; most are located near the Chancery. Mission addresses and phone numbers are as follow:

Embassy Chancery Calle Cesar Nicolas Penson, No.89 at the corner of Calle Leopoldo Navarro (809) 221–2171

Consular Section Calle Cesar Nicolas Penson at corner of Avenida Maximo Gomez (809) 221–2171

Public Affairs Section Ave. Mexico, No. 71 (809) 566–3131

DAO Calle Cesar Nicolas Penson, No. 89 (809) 221–2171

DEA Calle Cesar Nicolas Penson, No. 89 (809) 221–2171

FBI Calle Cesar Nicolas Penson, No. 89 (809) 221–2171

USMS Ave. Pedro H. Urena (809) 227-2121

FCS Ave. Pedro H. Ureña, No. 133 227–2121

USAID Calle Leopoldo Navarro, No. 12 221–1100

MAAG Calle Cesar Nicolas Penson, No. 87 221–2171

Peace Corps Ave. Bolivar, No. 451 685–4102

FAS Ave. Pedro H. Ureña, No. 133 227–0112

APHIS Ave. Pedro H. Ureña, No. 133 227–0111

Chancery office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Consular Section is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Peace Corps office is open from 8:00 a.m. to noon and from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Embassy Duty Officer is on call for after-hours emergencies at cell phone number: (809) 707-7969. The Consulate's Duty Officer's after-hours emergency cell phone number is (809) 707-7

In addition to the Executive Office, the Mission’s Department of State elements are:

A seven member combined economic/political section which coordinates overall U.S. policy towards the Dominican Republic and handles the entire gamut of economic and political affairs, from domestic political developments to extraditions, human rights, trade relations and expropriation as well as intellectual property rights.

The Consular Section is one of the world’s largest, with a staff of 23 American Officers, 8 Eligible Family Members, and 70 Foreign Service National employees. Given the country’s proximity and close ties with United States, along with the presence of an estimated one million Dominicans residing in major U.S. cities, the impetus for Dominicans to visit or move to the United States continues to rise. Santo Domingo has the third highest volume of immigrant visa applications processed annually; and for nonimmigrant visas—largely for tourism and temporary business—the post ranks among the top ten. The section also serves an estimated 30,000 resident American citizens; and Social Security claims in the Dominican Republic total over $2 million per year.

The Public Affairs Section oversees public information, educational, and cultural matters for the larger Embassy community. The Counselor manages a staff of eighteen and works closely with the Ambassador and Front Office on public relations matters and public positions. The Press Attaché‚ represents mission elements to the local media; writes and edits speeches, talking points, op ed pieces and press releases; maintains a web site (usemb.gov.do); and manages translation services and the Information Resource Center and reference library. The Cultural Affairs Officer manages a large Fulbright program, an increasingly important Voluntary Visitor Program, an International Visitor program and a U.S. Speaker and Cultural Specialist Program. All work closely with a broad spectrum of Dominican intellectuals, educators, and journalists. Recent programs have focused on Domestic Violence, Intellectual Property Rights, Political Party Structure, Non-Government Organizations, Consumerism, and the environment.

The Management Section provides various support services to Mission agencies. The Section includes the Financial Management, Human Resources, General Services, Information Management, and the CLO.

The Regional Security Office (RSO) serves as the Ambassador’s primary advisor on security and law enforcement issues. The RSO is responsible for the security of USG personnel, facilities and residences within the Dominican Republic. It conducts criminal and personnel investigations, and supervises a six-member Marine Security Guard Detachment and a 240-member local guard force. The office has a Regional Security Officer, two Assistant Regional Security Officer, an Office Manager, two Foreign Service National Investigators, a Residential Security Coordinator, and four Security Escorts. All questions regarding security-related issues in the Dominican Republic should be referred to the RSO.

USAID and its predecessor agencies have been active in the Dominican Republic administering all major U.S. development assistance programs since the mid–1950s. USAID provided budget support programs following Trujillo’s assassination in 1961, and an emergency recovery program to support basic government services in response to the 1965 revolution. During the 1970s and 1980s, economic declines, exacerbated by several destructive hurricanes, refocused program assistance on rural development services, free trade zone expansion, tourism, private sector-driven export promotion, HIV/AIDS prevention, family planning and agricultural diversification.

In September 1998, Hurricane George caused $2.2 billion in economic damages. A special U.S. Congressional appropriation enabled USAID to expand its program assistance to help the Dominican Republic respond to the many economic and social challenges Hurricane George left behind. These included health, housing, economic opportunities, and food to name a few. USAID is also working in the Dominican Government, NGOs and local communities to improve civil preparation for future disasters.

The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service carries out cooperative pest exclusion and animal disease control programs with the governments of Caribbean islands from Bermuda south to Trinidad and Tobago. Programs in the Caribbean area include agricultural quarantine inspection (AQI), mango hot water treatment, fruit and vegetable pre-clearance, tick eradication, swine health and passenger pre-clearance programs designed to protect U.S. agriculture from exotic animal and plant diseases and pests. Each year, APHIS works to link Dominican scientists with U.S. specialists on Integrated Pest Management to combat the sweet potato whitefly, one of the principal agricultural plagues of the country, and the papaya mealybug.

The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture works to improve foreign access for U.S. products. FAS operates programs designed to build new markets and improve the competitive position of U.S. agriculture in the global market place. The FAS office in the Dominican Republic has regional responsibilities for Jamaica and Haiti. The FAS representative at post is the key advisor to the Ambassador and host government and industry officials on U.S. agricultural policy and trade interests, and the first point of contact for business people interested in exporting or promoting U.S. agrucultural and food products.

The Department of Commerce’s Foreign Commercial Service Office in Santo Domingo is the regional headquarters for FCS in the Caribbean. The Regional Commercial Counselor maintains an office and staff in Bridgetown, Barbados, Kingston, Jamaica and Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago and coordinates commercial activities with State Department Economic/Commercial officers in the Bahamas, Guyana and Suriname. The primary mission of FCS is to promote U.S. exports and investment by providing market information; counseling; helping U.S. companies to find agents, distributors, and other forms of business partners; advocating on behalf of U.S. companies bidding on projects or needing help with market access; and sponsoring various trade promotion events. The office also provides overseas support for the Trade and Development Program (TDP) the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC).

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a component of the Department of Justice. DEA’s responsibilities for all programs associated with drug law enforcement in foreign countries come under the guidance of the Secretary of State and U.S. Ambassadors. In the Dominican Republic, DEA’s mission is to assist the host country in identifying and immobilizing major international drug trafficking organizations which are utilizing the Dominican Republic as a center for command and control as well as a transshipment point of delivery of illegal narcotics to the United States and other parts of the world. Because increased drug abuse among youth is a cause for major concern, the DEA is pursuing demand reduction programs domestically and abroad. The programs are aimed at educating school-age children about the dangers of drugs. In the Dominican Republic, DEA is taking a proactive stance and is coordinating with host country officials to enhance this program.

Another Department of Justice agency, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), has lead responsibility for locating U.S. fugitives in the Dominican Republic. The USMS works with local law enforcement agencies and is responsible for increasing operational capability within the Government of the Dominican Republic by supporting and supplying it with resources such as databases, equipment and intelligence for the purpose of locating and bringing fugitives to proper Dominican authorities with a view toward extradition or deportation to face justice in the United States.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Legal Attaché (LEGAT) office opened in Fiscal Year 2001. FBI LEGAT — Santo Domingo has investigative responsibilities in the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica. Representation consists of the Legal Attaché, an Assistant Legal Attaché, and an Administrative Officer. The office is charged with investigating violations of the laws of the United States, collecting evidence in cases in which the United States is or may be a party of interest, and performing other duties imposed by law. The FBI LEGAT program serves the nation as a critical public safety asset to aid investigations that are being carried out in the United States and abroad. The major function of the program is enlisting the cooperation of foreign law enforcement agencies on domestic FBI investigations and solving serious U.S. crimes. Furthermore, the FBI’s mission in the Dominican Republic is to cooperate with the law enforcement authorities against host country crime problems that threaten United States interests.

The mission of the United States Defense Attaché’ Office (USDAO) is to represent the Secretary of Defense (SECDEF), Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS), Regional Commanders, Service Secretaries, Service Chiefs, and the Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) within the Dominican Republic. The USDAO reports on politico-military information of strategic importance to the SECDEF, CJCS, Services, Regional Commanders, and National Agencies. Additionally, the Defense Attaché (DATT) advises the Chief of Mission on all military matters. The USDAO is composed of a Defense Attaché (DATT), an Army Attaché (ARMA), a Coast Guard Attaché (COGATT), an Operations Coordinator (OPSCO), an Operations Non-Commissioned Officer (OPSNCO), and an Administrative Assistant.

The U.S. Department of Defense representative in the Dominican Republic is the Chief, Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG). This officer represents the Commander in Chief U.S. Southern Command and the Secretary of Defense in non-attach, affairs. MAAG is responsible for the supervision and coordination of the activities of Department of Defense personnel temporarily in country. It administers a robust security assistance caseload and an annual 450,000 USD international military education and training program.

The Peace Corps (PC) is a development agency with a cross-cultural focus. It has worked in the Dominican Republic since 1962. Peace Corps provides technical assistance to local development efforts in the fields of agricultural production (soil conservation, integrated pest management, sustainable cropping practices), agroforestry (community nurseries), environmental education (curriculum development, national park promotion), primary education (teacher training, didactic materials development, preschool education, and special education information technology), health (promotion of breast feeding, proper nutrition, and AIDS prevention), environmental sanitation (community water systems, and latrine projects), and community economic development (microenterprise lending, small business advising, and farm management). Peace Corps volunteers also train communities in disaster preparedness and mitigation. On average 160 Peace Corps Volunteers work throughout the country on these efforts with 60 Dominican agencies, both governmental and nongovernmental. PC’s office is near the Embassy. Volunteers-to-be receive three months of intensive training at a training center located near Santo Domingo.

There are several other inter-agency committees at Post working to implement Mission goals in such areas as democracy and human rights, economic and commercial development, women’s issues, hurricane reconstruction, and law enforcement.

Housing Last Updated: 7/22/2005 2:39 PM

Embassy Santo Domingo manages a short-term government leased (STL) housing program. All agencies at Post, with partial participation from DAO, are part of this program. The GSO Housing Office identifies and prepares residences for occupancy. The Inter-Agency Housing Board (IAHB) makes housing assignments in accordance with the Department's housing standards contained in the Foreign Affairs Manual (Volume 15, Section 20). The goal is for incoming personnel to go directly to their house or apartment of assignment upon arrival. However, when this is not possible (particularly during the busy summer months), families will be temporarily housed in a hotel or in an Embassy property that is between occupants. Every effort is made, however, to minimize the length of stay in temporary housing.

A Welcome Kit including basic kitchenware, dishes, glassware, an iron and ironing board, and bed linens is provided to personnel of all agencies until household effects arrive.

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 7/22/2005 2:45 PM

Embassy Santo Domingo utilizes local hotels or Embassy properties that are between occupants as temporary housing when necessary. For hotels, the occupant is required to pay for the hotel, and then claim Temporary Quarters Subsisitence Allowance (TQSA), per the Department of State Standardized Regulations (DSSR). If placed in an empty Embassy property, there is no per diem or allowance.

A Welcome Kit including basic kitchenware, dishes, glassware, an iron and ironing board, and bed linens is provided to personnel in Embassy owned or leased housing until their household effects arrive and they are placed in permanent housing.

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 7/22/2005 2:55 PM

The Ambassador's residence, built in 1940, shares a seven-acre property with the Chancery. Between the two are the Mission's tennis court, swimming pool and cabanas.

Housing for Mission members includes basic furnishings and major appliances (refrigerator, freezer, stove, washer, dryer, dehumidifier, air purifier, bottled water dispenser, and air conditioners). Bring articles to personalize your quarters, especially bookcases and desks which are always in short supply. Most houses in Santo Domingo are built of reinforced concrete block. Most have three or four bedrooms, two or more baths, dining room, den, servant's quarters, and patios or yards. As pets are not always accepted in every apartment building, employees with pets should know that the GSO housing office will make every effort to secure appropriate housing, either in an apartment or in a house. Please make sure to let post know your preferences by completing the housing questionnaire included in the Welcome Cable.

Furnishings Last Updated: 7/22/2005 3:05 PM

Government furniture, equipment, and major appliances are provided to Mission employees except those of MAAG, DAO, and Peace Corps. Air conditioning units are provided for each occupied bedroom and the living room. Because of the frequent power outages, generators are provided to houses, and battery backup systems (inverters) are provided for apartments. Furniture, equipment and appliances listed below are provided depending on availability:

Living Room - sofa, 3 chairs (or sofa, loveseat and two chairs), bookcase, cabinet, 2 end tables, coffee table, corner table, lamps and entertainment center Dining Room - dining table with leaves, 8 chairs, china cabinet, side board Bedroom No. 1 - queen-size bed, double dresser, vertical-framed mirror, chest of drawers, 2 night tables, lounge chair, table lamps Bedrooms No. 2 and 3 - two twin beds (bunk beds may be available), dresser, vertical-framed mirror, chest, night table, and table lamp Kitchen - refrigerator, freezer, gas range, bottled water dispenser Den (if available and depending on agency) - sofa, loveseat, two chairs, coffee table, end tables. Desks - depending on availability, one desk set is issued per household. Laundry - washer, dryer. Miscellaneous - patio set (if applicable), dehumidifier, air filter, card table and chairs, ladder Furniture issuance is subject to availability. Note: The Mission does not operate a unified furniture program. Each agency funds furniture furnishings, equipment, and appliances for its own employees. Therefore, type and quantity can vary among agencies.

Government furnishings are not provided for servants' quarters. Use of government furniture in excess of the family's needs in a servant's room is prohibited. Folding cots with pad mattresses, plain chairs, and tables can be purchased locally.

Furnishings listed below are not provided. These items can be shipped as household goods or purchased locally.

Bathroom rugs and bath mats (3-4 bedroom quarters have at least 2 baths). Shower curtains and hooks Living and dining room rugs - most homes have tile or stone composite floors Glassware, china, silverware (expensive if purchased locally) Pots and pans, small electrical appliances, and kitchen utensils Household and bed linens Decorative and useful items (pictures, books, radios, stereos, tape recorders, ashtrays, vases, etc.) Battery or butane lamps (useful because of frequent power failures) Candles and flashlights Gardening tools, hose, etc. Vacuum cleaners Insect and mildew damage is common and should be considered before bringing fine paintings, tapestries, silk draperies, leather items, wool rugs, and similar valuable articles to post. The climate is harmful to silver and brassware.

Note: Fabric adhesive picture hooks, stick-on towel bar, hooks, and plastic holders do not adhere well because of the high humidity.

Bring an adequate supply of household linens. Replacement linens can be purchased locally, on trips to the U.S. or by mail order. Clothing wears out more quickly due to frequent washing. Fabric for draperies, maids' uniforms, and personal clothing may also be purchased locally or from U.S. sources.

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 7/22/2005 3:02 PM

Houses and apartments have hot and cold running water. This water is NOT potable. Filtered, purified drinking water is delivered to residences twice per week.

U.S. 110v-120v, 60-cycle, appliances operate on local current without transformers. Electricity voltage fluctuates frequently and can damage appliances. Voltage regulators and other protective devices are advisable. If you bring a computer, be sure to bring a good quality U.P.S. Please contact the post and/or your equipment dealer for advice on particular items.

Blackouts are common, but are not a problem. Emergency diesel-powered generators are provided to Mission families who occupy houses (except Peace Corps). U.S. Government leased apartments are always connected to building provided generators and have backup battery systems (inverters) as well.

Food Last Updated: 7/25/2005 9:04 AM

The Embassy does not have a Commissary of any kind. There is no need for a Commissary, because most products can be purchased on the local market. Post does, however, have an AERA Board. This enables American employees to buy gasoline at a lower price than found on the local market and purchase Embassy logo items. A one-time deposit of US $150.00 for families and US $100.00 for single members, is payable by cash or check. The deposit will be refunded to the member prior to departure from Post.

Several modern supermarkets in Santo Domingo sell a wide selection of products similar to those sold by supermarkets in the U.S. and Europe.

Beef, veal, pork, poultry, fish, lobster, and shrimp are available locally. Due to the danger of cigüatera, a serious type of poisoning, it is recommended that Embassy personnel do not eat shallow water fish, which feed on coral reefs that carry the toxin.

Locally grown vegetables such as beets, asparagus, lettuce, cabbage, eggplant, squash, onions, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, corn, string beans, lima beans, kidney beans, navy beans, cucumbers, green peppers, hearts of palm, broccoli, local spinach, and various tropical vegetables are available in season, but usually do not match the quality of produce available in the United States.

Local tropical fruits including avocados, mango, papaya, grapefruit, oranges, tangerines, bananas, plantains, guava, güanabana, melons, and pineapples are also available in season. Lemons, as Americans know them, do not grow here. Limes are used instead. Temperate zone fruits such as apples and grapes are imported, but are expensive.

Supermarkets sell long life milk, yogurt, butter, and cheese that are usually safe to consume, but should be checked for freshness.

Excellent local beers and soft drinks are available and sold at reasonable prices.

Clothing Last Updated: 7/25/2005 9:07 AM

Clothing suitable for a Washington, D.C. summer is appropriate in Santo Domingo all year. Wardrobes can be supplemented by mail order, trips to the U. S. or local purchase. If you sew or plan to use local seamstresses, bring fabrics, trimmings, and patterns with you. Though most types of fabrics are available locally, they tend to be more expensive than if purchased in the United States. Shoes for adults and children are also available but are usually more expensive than in the United States.

Drip-dry materials and cottons will withstand repeated washing and the bright sun better than other fabrics. Dry cleaning is available. Bring a light jacket or sweater for each family member for the rare cool evenings in the winter or for air-conditioned buildings. Umbrellas are useful during the rainy season, boots are not needed. Bring bathing suits and caps according to your needs (remember that you will be using them all year round and that they are difficult to order from the U.S. in the winter). Hats and gloves are rarely worn. Sun hats, shades and other protective clothing should be provided for the whole family. The tropical sun can be very hard on the skin.

Men Last Updated: 7/25/2005 9:08 AM

Tropical-weight suits are normal office dress. For official functions, officers need a dark suit. For some functions the güayabera (type of dress shirt worn outside of the trousers) is acceptable. Black dinner jackets are worn on rare occasions. Most parties including only Americans are informal. Bring an ample supply of sportswear. It is possible to rent white suits (needed occasionally by senior officers for Dominican government ceremonies) or tuxedos locally.

Women Last Updated: 7/25/2005 9:08 AM

Comfortable suits, dresses, and pantsuits are appropriate for office wear and social activities. Dressy cotton, silk or “silk-like?street-length cocktail dresses are acceptable for more formal functions. Dominican women, however, normally “dress up?a great deal and are current with the most recent fashions in New York. Receptions, especially common in the lives of counselor-level officers, and spouses, require dressy outfits and other appropriate accessories. Long evening dresses are rarely worn other than to the Marine Ball.

Stockings are sometimes worn by women to the office and at all dressy social gatherings. Slacks may be worn to the office, at casual gatherings, and for shopping. Walking shorts are acceptable for street wear, but not often seen, and mini-skirts are usually worn by young Dominican teens only. Open tropical-weight shoes and sandals are ideal. Soft, pliable leather and other natural fabrics (such as canvas) are preferable to heavy leather or suede.

Children Last Updated: 7/25/2005 9:12 AM

Children wear summer clothing year round. Nightclothes suitable for U.S. summers are practical, but warmer nightclothes may be needed in air-conditioned bedrooms. Children's shoes are available here, both locally made (of lower quality) and U.S. brands (expensive).

Teenagers in Santo Domingo are very stylish and label conscious. Teen formal wear (sports jackets for boys and dresses for girls) is worn much more in Santo Domingo than in the United States. If you have a daughter close to 15 years of age there will be many invitations to Quinceañero parties. Girls wear very dressy (mostly formal) clothes to this event, while the boys wear suites or, sometimes, tuxedos.

Supplies and Services

Supplies Last Updated: 7/25/2005 9:13 AM

Most personal, household, and medical supplies are available by mail order or on the local market, but local prices can be high. If you prefer special brands and products, bring a good supply or plan to order by mail. A household tool and repair kit that include assorted tacks, nails, nuts and bolts, faucet washers, and adhesives is useful. Greeting cards in Spanish (and some English) are sold at local specialty shops. Notepaper is available locally, but is expensive.

Families arriving with elementary school-age children may want to bring a complete stock of school supplies, loose-leaf notebooks, crayons, art supplies, 3x5 cards, construction paper, scotch tape, and paste, depending upon the school grade of children. School supplies are available locally; prices are higher than in the United States.

Most families Christmas shop by catalog using the APO. Local vendors are also invited to sell locally made gifts during the holiday seasons at expositions held on the Embassy compound.

Basic Services Last Updated: 7/25/2005 9:14 AM

Beauty and barbershops are abundant and services are generally considered good. Local tailors are used mainly for alterations. Shoe repair is satisfactory. Charges for these services range from reasonable to expensive. Ask other Americans before having work done. Be sure to get a cost estimate before requesting repairs.

Laundries are available, but most employees prefer to have their laundry done at home. Washing and ironing should be supervised to prevent damage to fabrics, washers, and irons. Dry cleaning services are available, but vary in quality.

Domestic Help Last Updated: 7/25/2005 9:16 AM

Generally, servants who are experienced and well trained pass from one American family to another. Although most servants speak only Spanish, a few know some English. Many applicants for domestic work are illiterate and very few have any knowledge of American cooking or housekeeping. The Embassy CLO keeps a registry of applicants for domestic work. It is best to hire only on the recommendation of another American, or to consult this registry. Upon request, the RSO will conduct local police record checks on applicants.

Most Americans in Santo Domingo employ one servant full-time and those in houses often have a part-time yardman. Single employees often share a maid who cooks, cleans, launders, serves, and may assist with shopping at local stores. Higher income Dominican families with children usually have two or more servants, one acting as nursemaid in addition to assisting with housework. Most Americans, however, find that cost prohibitive and generally only have one maid who does the cleaning, when not caring for children. Most houses and some apartments have sleeping quarters for one servant. A live-in servant increases the security of the residence by providing the deterrence of a constant presence. During the last several years, however, there has been a decrease in the number of women willing to be live-in maids. Wages for domestics depend upon responsibilities and experience. The employer furnishes all meals, uniforms (if the employer wants domestic help to wear one), and linens, if needed. Additional money is usually paid to cover cost of the servant's daily (public) transportation. It is important to clarify all this, prior to the beginning of employment.

Domestics who have been employed for a year expect a Christmas bonus of one month's salary. Although employers are not required to make social or medical insurance payments, some employers assist servants with medical expenses. Servants customarily work a 5-day week, with a 2-week paid vacation after one year's service.

Religious Activities Last Updated: 7/25/2005 9:17 AM

English language services are available at the following houses of worship: Epiphany/Union Church, Episcopal/Interdenominational; First Baptist Church; Santisima Trinidad (Catholic). Denominations, which have Spanish language services, include the Seventh-Day Adventist; Plymouth Brethren; Latter-Day Saints; Assembly of God; Jehovah's Witnesses; Evangelical; and Roman Catholic. The Hebrew Synagogue Center has services in Hebrew and Spanish.

Education

Dependent Education Last Updated: 7/25/2005 10:43 AM

At Post

Carol Morgan School - Most Mission children attend the Carol Morgan School (CMS), a private nonprofit institution providing coeducational instruction in English from prekindergarten through grade 12. The educational allowance is based upon tuition and related expenses at the Carol Morgan School ; it covers essential education costs. The curriculum parallels that of U.S. public schools. The high school is accredited by the Southern Association of College, and Secondary Schools. The school headmaster and all of the teaching staff meet U>S. certification requirements. The enrollment for the Carol Morgan School is about 1,100 students, with approximately 80 students from the Mission. Carol Morgan is also the school of choice for the wealthiest Dominican families.

The school is in a residential area of the city. The Embassy contracts with a private bus service to provide round-trip transportation for Mission children. All classrooms are air conditioned. Spanish is taught as a foreign language in all grades. Spanish as a Second Language (SSL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are available Pre-K through 12th.

The high school curriculum is geared to college preparatory work. AP course are available in math, sciences, history and languages. The Optimum Learning Program is available from prekindergarten to 12th grade and is able to provide some assistance to children with certain mild learning disabilities, as well as to the gifted and talented.

The school has six science laboratories, three in the high school and three in the middle school. The middle school/high school library is equipped with an audiovisual laboratory. The middle school/high school and elementary libraries have over 30,000 books. Physical education is offered for all grades, with intramural competition in volleyball, basketball, soccer, baseball and softball. There is a broad range of JV and Varsity teams. The PTO, Student Council and the National Honor Society organizations are also active. Extracurricular activities include a number of clubs. Homework assistance programs are available in 1st through 12th grades after school, Tuesday through Thursday. School closes for Dominican holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Easter. Pre-kindergarten school hours are from 7:35a.m. to 2:15p.m., with a mid-day break for lunch. The school has a cafeteria that serves both hot and cold meals. The cafteria is open from 7:00a.m. to 4:30p.m.

Enrollment in all grades at CMS is limited; exceptions are made for Embassy children. It needs to be stressed, however, that employees planning to bring school-age children to post should write the Human Resources Office and the CLO as far in advance as possible, providing their ages and school grades, in order to request that space be reserved at the school pending their arrival. It is critical that the Embassy receive this information so school-age children can be registered. The Carol Morgan School website address is: www.cms..edu.do, and the email addressis headmaster@cms.edu.do.

New CMS students must pass an entrance examination to become enrolled. The entrance exams are also used to determine grade placement. Carol Morgan's elementary school utilitizes the ITBS (IOWA Test). Hand carry pertinent information about schooling to post. If your children has had any standardized testing within the past school year, bring a copy of the results to show the school admissions office.

The American School of Santo Domingo - The American School of Santo Domingo is a privately owned coeducational institution. Instruction is in English and follows a U.S. curriculum from prekindergarten through grade 12. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. In previous years, Mission children have attended the American School. Each class has an average of 18 students with a maximum of 25. Teacher's assistants are provided for any class with 18 or more students. There are 350 students enrolled in the school. New students must pass an admissions test.

Spanish is taught as a foreign language in all grades. Spanish as a Second Languge (SSL) and English as Second Language (ESL) programs are available Pre-K through 12th. The high school curriculum is geared to college preparatory work. AP courses are available in Computers, U.S. History, European History, English Literature and Spanish Literature. The Optimum Learning Program is available from Pre-K to 12th grade. The school has one science laboratory and two computer laboratories. Physical education is offered for all grades, with intramural competition in volleyball, basketball, soccer, baseball, and softball. There is a broad range of JV and Varsity teams. The PTO, Student Council and National Honor Society organizations are also active.

The school closes for Dominican holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year and Easter. School hours for Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten is from 7:50a.m. to 2:00p.m. , Elementary is from 7:50a.m. through 2:20p.m. , and Middle and High Schools is from 7:50a.m. to 2:30p.m. The school cafeteria offers hot and cold meals. After school programs and sports take place Monday through Friday until 5:00p.m. The American School website address is www.assd.edu.do, and the email address is info@assd.edu.do.

New Horizons School - New Horizons School was founded in 1977 and is a private nonprofit institution. It provides bilingual coeducational instruction from prekindergarten through grade 12. Several Mission children currently attend New Horizons. All subjects are taught in both languages, half day in Spanish and the other half in English. New Horizons is accredited by the Secretary of Education and Culture of the Dominican Republic and the school administration is seeking accreditation with the New England Association of Colleges and Schools. High School students have the option of graduating with a Microsoft Users or Technical Degree. School enrollment consists of approximately 1,300 students representing 50 nationalities.

The school is in a residential area of the city. All classrooms are air conditioned. The school has five science laboratories. New Horizons school library is one of the largest in Santo Domingo. Most of the classrooms from grades 8 to 12 are equipped with audiovisual equipment and Smart Boards. Physical activities in the school include volleyball, basketball, soccer, ballet, dance and the martial arts.

School closes for Dominican holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year and Easter. School hours for Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten is from 7:30a.m. through 12:30p.m., with a mid-day break for lunch. Grades 1-12 are from 7:45a.m. to 2:30p.m. The school has a cafeteria, which serves both hot and cold meals. Parents who would like to eat with their children can do so at the Student/Parent restaurant.

New students must complete an entrance examination in both English and Spanish. Intensive English/Spanish courses are provided to students who lack certain language abilities. The New Horizons School websit address is www.gcnewhorizons.net, and the email address is: info@GCnewhorizons.net.

Saint Michael's School - Saint Michael's School is a private college preparatory American school founded in 1991, which educates students in grades 1 through 12. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and the Secretary of Education and Culture of the Dominican Republic. Inprior years, Mission children have attended St. Michael's. The school is located on two acres of land in a residential area of the city. The enrollment for the St. Michael's School is 450 students, with approximately 260 students in grade 1-6 and 190 students in grades 7-12.

Spanish is taught as a foreign language in all grades. English as a Second Langauge (ESL) program is only available in first grade. All studnets must have grade level English proficiency. The school has a science laboratory, a student computer laboratory and a teacher's computer laboratory. Physical education is offered for all grades. The PTO, Student Council and National Honor Society organizations are also active. All seniors are required to complete 60 hours of community service in order to meet graduation requirements.

School closes for Dominican holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year and Easter. School hours for all grades are from 7:40a.m. to 2:15p.m., with a mid-day break for lunch. The school cafeteria offers hot and cold meals. After school programs and sports take place Monday through Friday until 4:00p.m.

Other Schools at Post

International School - website address is www.intlschool .com, and email address is intl.school@codel.net.do

The Community For Learning - website address is www.tcforlearning.edu.do

St. George School - website address is www.stgeorge.edu.do, and the email address is kpablo@stgeorge.edu.do

The Joy of Learning - email address is joyoflearning@verizon.net.do.

Froebel Nursery School has excellent equipment and resources. The staff consists of a director and three assistants. The school has three classes: one for 3 year olds, a prekindergarten for 4 year olds, and a kindergarten for 5 year olds. Currently, about 65 children attend the school. The kindergarten class runs from 8:00a.m. to 1:00p.m., while the other two classes run from 8:00a.m. to noon. Instruction focuses on the artistic, social and academic aspects of the child's development.

Lucy's Lambs is a nursery school, which accepts children of ages 2-5. There are two nursery classes for ages 2-4, prekindergarten for ages 4-5, and kindergarten for 5 year olds. Each class has about 20 children. The director and the kindergarten teacher are certified. Instruction follows traditional approaches of leaning colors, numbers, concepts, social adjustments, etc.

At Post Last Updated: 7/25/2005 3:58 PM Carol Morgan School (CMS) - Most Mission children attend the Carol Morgan School, a private nonprofit institution providing coeducational instruction in English from prekindergarten through grade 12. The educational allowance is based upon tuition and related expenses at the Carol Morgan School; it covers essential education costs. The curriculum parallels that of U.S. public schools. The high school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges, and Secondary Schools. The school headmaster and all of the teaching staff meet U.S. certification requirements. The enrollment for the Carol Morgan School is about 1,100 students, with approximateley 80 students from the Mission. Carol Morgan is also the school of choice for the wealthiest Dominican families.

The school is in a residential area of the city. The Embassy contracts with a private bus service to provide round-trip transportation for Mission children. All classrooms are air conditioned. Spanish is taught as a foreign language in all grades. Spanish as a Second Language (SSL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are available Pre-K through 12th.

The high school curriculum is geared to college preparatory work. AP course are available in math, sciences, history,and languages. The Optimum Learning Program is available from prekindergarten to 12th grade and is able to provide some assistance to children with certain mild learning disabilitites, as well as to the gifted and talented.

The school has six science laboratories, three in the high school and three in the middle school. The middle school/high school library is equipped with an audiovisual laboratory. The middle school/high school and elementary libraries have over 30,000 books. Physical education is offered for all grades, with intramural competition in volleyball, basketball, soccer, baseball, and softball. There is a broad range of JV and Varsity teams. The PTO, Student Council, and the National Honor Society organizations are also active. Extracurricular activities include a number of clubs. Homework assistance programs are available in 1st through 12th grades after school, Tuesday through Thursday. School closes for Domincan holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, and Easter. Pre-kindergarten school hours are from 7:35 a.m. to noon, with a snack break at 10:00 a.m. School hours for kindergarten through 12th are from 7:35 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., with a mid-day break for lunch. The school has a cafeteria that serves both hot and cold meals. The cafeteria is open from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Enrollment in all grades at CMS is limited; exceptions are made for Embassy children. It needs to be stressed, however, that employees planning to bring school-age children to post should write the Human Resources Office and the CLO as far in advance as possible, providing their ages and school grades, in order to request that space be reserved at the school pending their arrival. It is critical that the Embassy receive this information so school-age children can be registered. The Carol Morgan School website address is: www.cms.edu.do, and the email address is headmaster@cms.edu.do.

New CMS students must pass an entrance examination to become enrolled. The entrance exams are also used to determine grade placement. Carol Morgan's elementary school utilitizes the ITBS (IOWA Test). Hand carry pertinent information about schooling to post. If your child has had any standardized testing within the past school year, bring a copy of the results to show the school admissions office.

The American School of Santo Domingo - The American School of Santo Domingo is a privately owned coeducational institution. Instruction is in English and follows a U.S.curriculum from prekindergarten through grade 12. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. In previous years, Mission children have attended the American School. Each class has an average of 18 students with a maximum of 25. Teacher's assistants are provided for any class with 18 or more students. There are 350 students enrolled in the school. New students must pass an admissions test.

Spanish is taught as a foreign language in all grades. Spanish as a Second Language (SSL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are available Pre-K through 12th. The high school curriculum is geared to college preparatory work. AP courses are available in Computers, U.S. History, European History, English Literature, and Spanish Literature. The Optimum Learning Program is available from Pre-K to 12th grade. The school has one science laboratory and two computer laboratories. Physical education is offered for all grades, with intramural competition in volleyball, basketball, soccer, baseball, and softball. There is a broad range of JV and Varsity teams. The PTO, Student Council, and National Honor Society organizations are also active.

School closes for Dominican holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, and Easter. School hours for Prekindergarten and Kindergarten is from 7:50 a.m. to 2:00p.m., Elementary is from 7:50a.m. to 2:20p.m., and Middle and High School is from 7:50a.m. to 2:30p.m. The school cafeteria offers hot and cold meals. After school programs and sports take place Monday through Friday until 5:00 p.m. The American School website address is www.assd.edu.do, and the email address is: info@assd.edu.do.

New Horizons School - New Horizons School was founded in 1977 and is a private nonprofit institution. It provides bilingual coeducational instruction from prekindergarten through grade 12. Several Mission children currently attend New Horizons. All subjects are taught in both languages, half day in Spanish and the other half in English. New Horizons is accredited by the Secretary of Education and Culture of the Dominican Republic and the school administration is seeking accreditation with the New England Association of Colleges and Schools. High School students have the option of graduating with a Microsoft Users or Technical Degree. School enrollment consists of approximately 1,300 students representing 50 nationalities.

The school is in a residential area of the city. All classrooms are air conditioned. The school has five science laboratories. New Horizons school library is one of the largest in Santo Domingo. Most of the classrooms from grades 8 to 12 are equipped with audiovisual equipment and Smart Boards. Physical activities in the school include volleyball, basketball, soccer, ballet, dance, and the martial arts.

School closes for Domincian holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, and Easter. School hours for Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten are from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with a mid-day break for lunch. Grades 1-12 are from 7:45a.m. to 2:30p.m. The school has a cafeteria which serves both hot and cold meals. Parents who would like to eat with their children can do so at the Student/Parent restaurant.

New students must complete an entrance examination in both English and Spanish. Intensive English/Spanish courses are provided to students who lack certain language abilities. The New Horizons School website address is www.gcnewhorizons.net, and the email address is: info@GCnewhorizons.net.

Saint Michael's School - Saint Michael's School is a private college preparatory American school founded in 1991, which educates students in grades 1 through 12. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and the Secretary of Education and Culture of the Domincan Republic. In prior years, Mission children have attended St. Michael's. The school is located on two acres of land in a residential area of the city. The enrollment for the St. Michael's School is 450 students, with approximately 260 students in grades 1-6 and 190 students in grades 7-12.

Spanish is taught as a foreign language in all grades. English as a Second Language (ESL) program is only available in first grade. All students must have grade level English proficiency. The school has a science laboratory, a student computer laboratory, and a teacher's computer laboratory. Physical education is offered for all grades. The PTO, Student Council, and National Honor Society organizations are also active. All seniors are required to complete 60 hours of community service in order to meet graduation requirements.

School closes for Domincan holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmans, New Year, and Easter. School hours for all grades are from 7:40 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., with a mid-day break for lunch. The school cafeteria offers hot and cold meals. After school programs and sports take place Monday through Friday until 4:00 p.m.

Other Schools at Post.

Froebel Nursery School has excellent equipment and resources. The staff consists of a director and three assistants. The school has three classes: one for 3 year olds, a prekindergarten for 4 year olds, and a kindergarten for 5 year olds. Currently, about 65 children attend the school. The kindergarten class runs from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., while the other two classes run from 8:00 a.m. to noon.. Instruction focuses on the artistic, social, and academic aspects of the child's development.

Lucy's Lambs is a nursery school, which accepts children of ages 2-5. There are two nursery classes for ages 2-4, prekindergarten for ages 4-5, and kindergarten for 5 year olds. Each class has about 20 children. The director and the kindergarten teacher are certified. Instruction follows traditional approaches of learning colors, numbers, concepts, social adjustments, etc.

International School - Website address is www.intlschool.com, and email address is intl.school@codel.net.do

The Community for Learning - Website address is www.tcforlearning.edu.do

The Joy of Learning - Email address is joyoflearning@verizon.net.do

Away From Post Last Updated: 7/25/2005 3:02 PM Employees not wishing to enroll their children in any of the schools in Santo Domingo may send them to a school in the U.S. or another country. The school away-from-post allowance is the same dollar amount as the school at-post allowance and is payable for children attending kindergarten through grade 12. It must be used to pay for tuition, room and board, and transportation.

Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 7/25/2005 2:37 PM

The Dominican American Cultural Institute (ICDA) or Binational Center, which receives support from the State Department, is headed by a board of directors composed of Americans and Dominicans. The Center offers day and evening classes in English and Spanish at nominal fees. French language classes are offered at Alliance Francaise and Spanish classes are available at APEC University. Private language tutors are also available. Adult and children's classes in art and music, including voice, are given at the Bellas Artes School and the National Conservatory of Music. The Little Theater, which produces at least one play in English per year, welcomes new members. Drama groups in Spanish occasionally have openings for non-Dominicans. Ballet classes are available for children, and trained adults may be able to work with performing ballet groups. The semiprofessional National Symphony accepts foreigners who play at the fully professional level.

Recreation and Social Life

Sports Last Updated: 7/27/2005 9:06 AM

Water sports, golf, baseball, softball, horseback riding, tennis, basketball, picnicking, hiking, and camping can be enjoyed year round. Several shallow, palm-lined beaches are within a one-hour drive of the city. All major hotels have swimming pools and tennis courts. Equipment can be purchased locally, though prices are usually higher than in the United States.

The number of modern vacation resorts catering to international tourists has increased dramatically in recent years, and there are resorts on all the island£r coasts. Prices vary, depending upon accommodations and season. Santo Domingo has a variety of sports clubs, including tennis, golf, swimming, racquetball and fitness. Membership costs vary depending upon services offered. Some offer special diplomatic rates.

The Dominican Republic has a number of good to excellent golf courses. The most frequently played course among Embassy golfers is Las Lagunas, which is located in Cayacoa, about a 20-minute drive northwest of Santo Domingo. Membership and greens fees at this challenging and well-maintained course are relatively inexpensive by U.S. standards. The 18-hole golf course at the Santo Domingo Country Club is on the southwestern outskirts of the city. Club membership is open to diplomatic personnel but has become very expensive in recent years. The Metro Country Club, about an hour£r drive east of the city along the south coast, boasts of a new Embassy Suites Hotel and has the relatively new golf course. On the Southeast coast of the DR is Guavaberry Golf and Country Club. It is located an hour away from Santo Domingo and has become a favorite for Embassy personnel. The rates are reasonable and the landscaping of this course make it both a challenge and pleasure for the weekend golfer. There are also championship caliber courses, including the well-known ¤‘eeth of the Dog,?at the Casa de Campo Resort about 80 miles east of Santo Domingo in La Romana. On the north coast, approximately four hours from Santo Domingo, are two more championship quality courses at Playa Dorada and Playa Grande. Playa Grande, a spectacular seaside course, is a favorite for weekend golf getaways. A few other courses are located near to beach resorts in the Bavaro/Punta Cana region at the eastern end of the island.

Baseball is the national sport. The baseball season is during the fall and winter months. Many U.S. major league players play in the Dominican league during the U.S. off-season.

Running and biking are becoming popular sports in Santo Domingo. The city offers several places where one can run/bike, including the oceanfront or "malec¨®n", a 31/2 mile course in Mirador del Sur, a large park in southwest part of the city; and the almost four mile perimeter of the National Botanical Gardens. An informal expatriate group, the Hash House Harriers, carries on the tradition of weekly runs found in cities around the world.

Horseback riding is also a popular sport. Both La Feria Ganadera and Club Ecuestre Las Colinas have stables and instructors as well as periodic horse shows. Rancho Cumayasa (about an hour and half drive from Santo Domingo) is popular with Embassy personnel. The Ranch is well maintained and prices for rental of a horse and equipment is reasonable.

Hunting is permitted in the Dominican Republic. Ducks, which migrate from North America in the winter, and doves are the principal fowl hunted. Quail, in small numbers, yag¨²aza (a West Indian tree duck), and guinea hens are also hunted. No large game is found here.

Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 7/27/2005 9:13 AM

The principal tourist attractions in Santo Domingo are located in the partially restored colonial section of the city. The Cathedral, built between 1523 and 1540, is one of the finest examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture in the Western Hemisphere. It is the oldest Cathedral in the New World.

The renowned but controversial Faro a Colon (the Columbus Memorial Lighthouse), located on the east side of the Ozama River, was conceptualized in 1923 and completed and inaugurated in 1992 in time to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Columbus' arrival in the new world. The main mass of the lighthouse is constructed in the shape of a great cross in the center of a 2,500-acre park. When lit, powerful floodlights lining its upper structure reflect the image of a cross in the night sky. A tomb in the Lighthouse chapel reputedly contains Columbus?remains, honoring his wish to be buried on the Island of Hispaniola.

The Torre del Homenaje, part of the Ozama Fortress, was built in 1503 and reflects the power of colonial Spain. The Alcazar de Colon is the fortress palace built by Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus and the first Viceroy of the island. The Museum of Casa Reales, formerly the residence of the Captain General of Hispaniola, has excellent exhibits of historical interest. Several other museums of interest are located in Santo Domingo. The Museum of the Dominican Man is best known for its collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. The National Museum of Art exhibits works by well known Dominican and regional artists. The Museum of Natural History and Geography houses has exhibits dealing with the topography, agriculture, flora, and fauna of the Dominican Republic.

Several parks are scattered throughout the city. The largest park, Mirador del Sur on Paseo de Los Indios, is 3 1/2 miles long and is a favorite for walking, jogging and biking. The National Botanical Gardens on the city's north side contains hundreds of varieties of tropical plants.

An Olympic-type park with a sports complex was built for the XII Central Caribbean Games in 1974. The complex includes a stadium for soccer and track and field events; a covered sports arena with a cycling track, and an Olympic-size pool. Unfortunately, this pool is not well maintained.

Several cities of interest are located within easy driving distance of Santo Domingo. San Cristobal, about a half-hour west of the capital, is the site of Mahogany House, built and furnished by Trujillo. Less than two hours northwest of Santo Domingo is Santiago de los Caballeros which may be reached by a modern highway and affords a pleasant change of surroundings from the capital. Santiago and its surrounding environments have many points of interest and several good restaurants.

Constanza, 90 miles from Santo Domingo, is 4,000 feet above sea level and offers both a change of scenery and climate. Jarabacoa is also located in the mountains about 90 miles from Santo Domingo.

Beaches on the south coast of the Dominican Republic are Boca Chica (25 miles east of the capital); Gúayacanes, Playa Caribe, Hotel Metro (Mission members can use its beach by showing Embassy identification), Juan Dolio, and Villas del Mar; Las Saladillas in Barahona (75 miles to the west); and Bayahibe in La Romana (80 miles to the east). Points of interest on the north coast include the port city of Puerto Plata. La Isabela, the first settlement in the New World; and Sosua, where settled Jewish refugees from Germany in 1939. Both Puerto Plata and Sosua have beautiful white sand beaches and are about 150 miles north of Santo Domingo. Samana, 170 miles northeast of the capital, was settled by freed American slaves around 1865. English is still spoken by many of the descendants of the original settlers.

The southern and eastern coastal tourist areas of La Romana, Bayahibe, Punta Cana, and Bavaro are popular with Mission families. Access roads are fairly good. There are several "all inclusive" resorts on the east, north and south coasts which offer special rates, depending on the season. Some families enjoy rugged camping in beach and mountain areas. Since no developed camp grounds or trailer parks are available, you must take potable water and food with you if you go camping.

Entertainment Last Updated: 7/25/2005 11:04 AM

Movies, shown in modern air-conditioned theaters, are another form of entertainment outside the home. U.S. films with the original soundtracks predominate. British, Mexican, Italian, French, and German films are also shown. Cable television from the U.S. can be received at home from local cable companies. Cable channels include major American networks, CNN, HBO, as well as many others.

Numerous good and affordable restaurants in Santo Domingo make dining out very popular.

There are gambling casinos at most major hotels, several nightclubs with floorshows, and various discotheques which feature American as well as Dominican music.

The National Theater, near the Embassy, is the center of cultural presentations including symphony concerts, recitals, plays, musicals, ballets by visiting troupes, operas, and plays by local artists. The Binational Center and several private galleries regularly hold exhibits by local artists.

Many bars and nightclubs in Santo Domingo offer a variety of music and nighttime entertainment. It is important to keep in mind, however, that such establishments may discriminate on the basis of skin color. Post is actively addressing this issue.

Social Activities

Among Americans Last Updated: 7/27/2005 9:14 AM Most social gatherings among Americans center around the home and include informal coffees, luncheons, teas, cocktail buffets, dinners, and parties.

The Mission cafeteria/snack bar, the Rincon Verde, is not only a convenient lunch spot for employees, but also serves as a gathering place to unwind from the work week on some Friday evenings.

International Contacts Last Updated: 7/27/2005 9:15 AM There are many opportunities to meet socially with Dominicans and other foreigners. Families of all nationalities become acquainted through the Carol Morgan School. The Dominican-American Cultural Institute and other special interest groups provide opportunities for Mission members to meet Dominicans. Damas Diplomaticas raises money for charities, as well as providing opportunity to meet non-Mission people. Another group, the Ladies' Guild of Santo Domingo, a non-profit organization of English-speaking women of all nationalities, has monthly meetings that provide a good opportunity to meet people from outside the Embassy community. Two or three of their meetings each year are fund-raising events to finance the Guild's charity work.

Official Functions Last Updated: 7/27/2005 9:19 AM

Most representational-type functions are either semi-formal, requiring dark suits for men and short cocktail dresses for women, or informal, to which men generally wear dressy sports shirts or gúayaberas and women wear less formal short dresses. Invitations usually specify "gúayabera," "traje de calle" (business suit) or "traje oscuro"(dark business suit).

With the exception of the Marine Ball, only senior officers and their spouses will need formal wear for occasional formal diplomatic or social functions. Military personnel would wear corresponding dress uniforms to such events. Country Team members are required to wear white suits (with men wearing black ties and women black accessories) to accompany the Ambassador when he/she presents credentials, to the swearing in of a new President, and to activities on Dominican Independence Day (February 27th). These suits for men as well as other formal clothing can be rented.

Newly arrived personnel should pay courtesy calls on the Ambassador and on the Dominican officials with whom they will work. Sponsors will arrange an early opportunity for spouses to meet other spouses in the Mission. Business cards are used regularly but informal "foldovers" are more common for social usage, such as acknowledging invitations, short thank-you's, etc. Mission policy is that all personnel acknowledge invitations promptly.

Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 7/25/2005 11:11 AM

Mission personnel and eligible family members are expected to attend official functions to which they are invited. Senior officers receive frequent invitations and may, on occasion, ask other members of the staff to represent them at social events. The Mission encourages all personnel to host social activities for individuals of corresponding rank in the government, other diplomatic missions, the business community, etc. Such contact with others can contribute greatly to a better understanding of the Dominican Republic and make an assignment here particularly enjoyable.

Special Information Last Updated: 7/13/2005 2:32 PM

When leaving the United States, visitors should secure a Dominican tourist card (good for 60 days) from an airline agent at check-in. The tourist card costs US$10. Tourist cards may also be purchased, with proper proof of citizenship, upon arrival at the airport in Santo Domingo, however, this may delay immigration procedures. Upon departure, visitors pay a US$20 airport tax, which is normally included in the airline ticket.

Official visitors with regular passports planning to remain in the Dominican Republic over 60 days must obtain a visa; this can be processed through the Embassy travel section. Those planning to stay over 90 days must secure a provisional residence permit. This service can be arranged through the Office of Human Resources. The latter requirement is not applicable for official visitors holding diplomatic or official passports with appropriate entry visas.

Post Orientation Program

Newcomers receive a Welcome Kit with useful information about various subjects such as hiring domestics, auto tags, driver's license, the political and economic history of the Dominican Republic, a city shopping guide, health and medical information. Mission-wide orientations are held twice per year, in September and April. On arrival, newcomers should schedule, through the Office of Human Resources, a series of informational briefings from various Mission offices.

Notes For Travelers

Getting to the Post Last Updated: 7/20/2005 3:28 PM

Travel from the U.S. to Santo Domingo is not difficult. Most people come from Washington through New York, Philadelphia, Miami, or Puerto Rico. Notify the General Services and Office of Human Resources of your arrival date, flight, and number of accompanying family members so that you can be met at the airport and accommodations can be reserved. You will be assisted through customs and accompanied to your temporary or permanent quarters by an American staff member sponsor.

If possible, plan to ship your air freight several weeks before you leave for post. Advise the General Services Office by telegram or e-mail the air waybill number, and the weight and number of pieces of unaccompanied baggage you are shipping. Dominican customs regulations require packing lists. Send the General Services Office a complete list of your air freight and household effects as early as possible.

On their first day of duty, employees and eligible family members apply for various documents required by the Embassy and the Dominican Government. Bring at least twelve (12) 1"x 1"or 2"x 2"photos for each family member. Photos may be obtained locally if not available before leaving the United States or previous post. The photos are needed for the following documents:

Dominican diplomatic or consular carnet (those with diplomatic or consular titles, and their eligible family members)--4 front view Dominican residence permit and reentry permit (those without diplomatic or consular title, and their dependents)--1 front view and 1 side view Driver's license (employees and dependents 16 and over)--bring your valid U.S. license, and latest vision test results. Note: Vision test can also be obtained at Medical Unit. Gun permit (for employees with firearms) --4 front view for each firearm Pictures are generally required if you intend to join sports and country clubs. The Carol Morgan School requests pictures of children at time of registration.

Customs, Duties, and Passage

Customs and Duties Last Updated: 7/27/2005 9:24 AM

U.S. Government employees and dependents with diplomatic passports need only present these documents to the customs official to have accompanied luggage cleared through customs without inspection. Inspectors sometimes ask holders of regular and official U.S. passports to open accompanied luggage for cursory inspection. Air freight and surface shipments are cleared through customs by the Mission's Customs and Shipping Unit. The Dominican government imposes no restrictions on the number or value of duty-free shipments that Mission personnel receive. Therefore, it is easy for newcomers to place orders with U.S. firms for air freight or surface shipment of additional items when specific needs become known.

Exoneration procedures for cars generally take at least 20 working days. A car may not be cleared through customs until it is in port because the Dominican Customs Service insists on verifying, by actual inspection, the motor and chassis numbers of imported vehicles before allowing their duty-free entry. However, customs clearance formalities may be started before a vehicle arrives at port if documents, such as the bill of lading, bill of sale, title or other proof of ownership showing the necessary vehicle identification information are sent to the Embassy well in advance of the employee’s arrival. Dominican customs authorities are extremely meticulous in verifying that serial numbers of engines and chassis are correct. Double check the chassis and engine serial numbers on your ownership documents against those of the car. Cars may not be driven without Dominican license plates and possession of third party liability insurance.

Personal Vehicles

The Dominican Government permits Embassy Personnel to import two vehicles duty-free. If you plan to import a second vehicle, or purchase one locally, you must first request approval through the Management Office because the slots for second vehicles are limited. Expenses for the transportation and importation of a second vehicle are paid by the employee.

When importing a vehicle, Mission personnel should note the following:

1. The Embassy provides no facilities for importation, exoneration from duty, licensing, or release from Dominican customs of any vehicle knowingly imported in violation of these standards. Violators are liable for payment of full duty.

2. You may sell your car and replace it only if it has been in an exonerated status for at least two years (diplomatic list personnel) or three year (nondiplomatic/administrative and technical personnel).

3. Under U.S. law, employees are prohibited from making a profit from the sale of exonerated vehicles.

4. The Dominican Government has established limits on the dollar value of vehicles that can be imported duty-free by personnel assigned to diplomatic missions. The current limits are US$40,000 for Counselors, Attaches, Military Attaches, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Secretaries. For other personnel, the maximum is US$30,000. While the host government has not enforced these limitations, the GODR authorities will not permit its duty-free entry at all.

Pets Last Updated: 7/22/2005 3:40 PM

The following regulations govern the importation of pets:

1. You must obtain a properly signed health certificate and rabies vaccination certificate from a licensed veterinarian at the point of origin of your pet's travel. Certificates must be obtained not more than 10 days before travel commences. If the point of origin is the U.S., and the animal is to be returned to the U.S., retain copies of all papers to facilitate the return.

2. If the pet is to accompany you, the documents must be with you to present to the Health Inspector when you enter the Dominican Republic. Otherwise, the pet will be quarantined.

3. If the pet is shipped separately, the documents must be attached to the air waybill. The Embassy should be advised of airline, flight number, and date and time of arrival. If the air waybill is not accompanied by required documents, the pet will be quarantined.

4. Pets must be shipped in an animal cage container.

5. Please note that many U.S. carriers ban the travel of pets in the cargo hold of their aircraft during the summer months.

6. Please contact post well in advance if you plan to bring an animal which is listed in any of the appendices to CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species).

Firearms and Ammunition Last Updated: 7/13/2005 2:46 PM

I. INTRODUCTION

Because the possession, bearing and use of firearms may involve serious personal, political, and legal liabilities, the Chief of Mission is the ultimate authority in determining who may possess firearms and under what conditions. This policy applies to all United States government employees in the Dominican Republic under the Chief of Mission's authority and their dependents, whether civilian or military, direct hire or contractor, permanent or TDY, in country on behalf of any agency of the U.S. Government or whose activities are supported by U.S. Government funding. Permission must first be obtained in writing from the Chief of Mission before weapons can be brought into the Dominican Republic and all applicable local laws and regulations must be complied with.

II. IMPORTATION OF FIREARMS

In compliance with Dominican law and Department of State policies, the Embassy has established the following rules for the importation and use of personally owned firearms by employees and their families under the authority of the Chief of Mission, and for temporary duty personnel.

1. Permission to import, purchase, or possess firearms of any caliber or description by Embassy personnel, family members, or TDY personnel must be obtained in writing from the Chief of Mission via the Regional Security Officer (RSO).

2. Only shotguns of 12 gauge or less may be imported, purchased, or possessed. Handguns or rifles are not authorized.

a) The firearms must be registered with the RSO. b) RSO must review and approve a certification of current training and familiarization for each weapon. c) A weapons storage container approved by the RSO is required for home storage. d) Employee and/or family members must state in writing that the weapon is solely for sporting use. e) Employee must obtain a carry permit as required by Dominican law.

Ownership and use of firearms are subject to Dominican law. Chief of Mission permission to import, purchase or possess a firearm does not supercede any requirement of Dominican law. Chief of Mission importation permission also does not authorize anyone to carry any weapon for defensive purposes outside of an employee's or family member's assigned residence. Firearms must be securely transported, unloaded, to and from where they will be used for sporting purposes.

III. PROCEDURES FOR FIREARM IMPORTATION

All USG employees, including Special Agents of the Bureau of Diplomatic Security, other U.S. law enforcement officers and U.S. military personnel, who fall under the Chief of Mission authority and wish to import a firearm(s) in furtherance of official duties, must complete the following requirements:

A. At least 60 days prior to arrival in the Dominican Republic, submit a written or cabled request to import the firearm(s) to the Regional Security Officer. The request must include the following information:

1. Make or manufacturer of weapon;

2. Model of weapon;

3. Type of Weapon;

4. Caliber/gauge of weapon;

5. Serial number; and

6. Purpose for importing weapon to post (e.g., official or personal weapon for hunting or target shooting).

B. RSO will forward post approval/disapproval in a timely manner via letter or cable. Post concurrence is absolutely required to initiate the importation process. This message of concurrence will also serve as proof to shippers and USG dispatch agents that packing and shipping of the firearm(s) to the point of destination specified in the message is authorized.

C. Weapons should only be transported via household effects, and must be reflected on all inventory records.

*NOTE: U.S. law enforcement officers should follow their respective agency guidelines.

D. Upon arrival at post, personnel must register all firearms with the Regional Security Office.

E. Failure to follow importation procedures, including the pre-departure cable or letter, may result in disapproval of the application and confiscation of the firearm(s) for the employee's length of tour.

F. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives prohibits importation of personally owned weapons from a foreign country to the United States unless it can be proven that the weapon(s) were owned and possessed previously in the U.S. It is incumbent upon the individual to contact the Department of Homeland Security for the current procedures and forms necessary for establishing ownership PRIOR to shipping a weapon overseas. Failure to do so could lead to the confiscation of the weapon upon reentry into the U.S.

G. All personnel who legally acquire a firearm overseas must comply with the Gun Control Act of 1968, and register the weapon with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Specifically, the requirements of Section 925.D.3 of the Gun Control Act of 1968, which states that only "sporting firearms" can be imported, and Section 922.A.3, which requires unlicensed individuals to register the weapon with the BATFE, must be complied with before the firearm can be shipped into the U.S.

IV. FIREARMS REGISTRATION

A. USG employees (e.g., accredited U.S. law enforcement and U.S. military personnel) who are required to own, possess, carry or use personal or USG issued firearms in furtherance of their official duties, can obtain permits through an official request to the GODR. The RSO will assist with the application process.

In such cases the Chief of Mission must first authorize the carrying of any firearms, and the Regional Security Office must ensure that these employees meet minimum firearms proficiency, safety and procedural standards. The senior ranking agency official at post must request Chief of Mission authorization in writing through the RSO. The request should be in the form of a signed certification which provides the following: employee's full name, statutory authority to carry a firearm, purpose for carrying a firearm, type of firearm and the duration for which the authorization is requested.

B. Persons who may be authorized (only in very rare situations) to carry a firearm for personal protection must receive the proper certification and permission in writing from the Chief of Mission or Principal Officer through the Regional Security Officer (RSO), and the RSO will facilitate obtaining the necessary permits.

V. TRANSFER OR SALE OF FIREARMS

The RSO monitors the final disposition of personally owned firearms.

A. Personal firearms cannot be sold or otherwise transferred to persons other than USG privileged employees and U.S. military personnel.

B. Written notice must be provided to the RSO immediately upon the sale or transfer of a personally owned firearm.

VI. STORAGE OF WEAPONS AND AMMUNITION

The storage of firearms in the home poses special problems and hazards, particularly to children or other untrained persons. Firearms should always be stored unloaded, out of reach, out of sight, and under lock and key.

Ammunition should always be stored separately from firearms, and likewise under lock and key.

Firearm ownership is a full time responsibility. Each adult in a home where firearms or ammunition are stored must accept full responsibility for the safety of any children visiting or residing in the home. Adults should know where the firearm(s) are stored, how they function, whether or not they are loaded, and how to safely unload them. The sponsor/employee will be held responsible for any and all firearm discharges and/or accidents, without exception.

USG employees, even with appropriate Dominican permits, may not carry or transport personally owned firearms into a U.S. Diplomatic Mission without prior approval from the RSO. Likewise, firearms or ammunition are prohibited from being stored in an employee's office without written permission of the RSO. Violators are subject to having their weapons/ammunition confiscated for the remainder of their tour.

VII. LOSS OR THEFT OF FIREARMS

In the case of loss or theft of a personally owned or USG firearm, the Regional Security Officer must be notified immediately and the circumstances provided in writing.

VIII. ACTIVITIES SPECIFICALLY PROHIBITED WHILE ARMED

1) Careless and irresponsible behavior;

2) Careless or unnecessary display of a weapon in public;

3) Dry‑firing or practicing quick draws, other than under formal training conditions;

4) Threatening a person, or making an unwarranted allusion to being armed in any situation;

5) Drinking any alcoholic beverage while armed, consumption of any alcoholic beverage within 6 hours prior to being armed, or any consumption of alcohol, even in excess of 6 hours prior to being armed, which is sufficient to impair judgment or the ability to use firearms safely;

6) Use of medications or drugs which may impair judgment or ability; and

7) Carrying or using any weapon, ammunition or related equipment not specifically authorized by Dominican law or by the Chief of Mission or Principal Officer.

IX. MAINTENANCE OF AUTHORIZATION TO BEAR AND POSSESS FIREARMS

Employees authorized by the Chief of Mission or Principal Officer to carry or possess firearms is subject to the initial certification and re-qualification standards of their respective agencies or departments.

X. RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

The use of deadly force is always a last resort option. It shall be used only if (1) clearly necessary to protect human life or (2) if specifically authorized by the Chief of Mission or Principal Officer, in connection with the post's Internal Defense Plan. The sole purpose for discharging a firearm at another person is to cause the immediate incapacitation of an individual believed to be involved in a direct, life‑threatening attack.

All reasonable prudence and caution must be exercised to avoid the unnecessary or negligent use of firearms that might injure innocent bystanders.

Firearms will not be drawn or brandished to threaten or otherwise menace any person under any circumstances.

XI. WEAPONS IN THE DIPLOMATIC MISSION

The Chief of Mission or Principal Officer's authorization to carry a firearm does not automatically extend to areas within the Mission. Personnel who may bear firearms inside the Diplomatic Mission are limited to the authorizations below.

A. With prior RSO notification and approval, Diplomatic Security and other USG law enforcement officers are authorized to carry loaded, concealed firearms within USG facilities in the performance of their official protective security or assigned internal defense duties.

B. In accordance with Chief of Mission or Principal Officer authority, the DOS/MSG MOU dated March 29, 1994, and the post specific guard orders approved by the RSO, Marine Security Guards on duty are authorized to openly display a sidearm or shoulder weapon in USG facilities.

C. With prior RSO approval Foreign Service National (FSN) employees or contract security personnel under the direct supervision of the RSO may be permitted to carry a loaded firearm, concealed or openly, within a USG facility.

XII. INTERNAL DEFENSE FORCE

Members of the internal defense force (RSO, MSG and other U.S. law enforcement personnel), as designated in the post Emergency Action Plan (EAP), are authorized to bear firearms and shoulder weapons within USG facilities when an internal defense emergency has been declared.

All weapons will be carried in accordance with Diplomatic Security regulations, e.g., rounds will not be chambered in shoulder weapons unless authorized by the RSO or senior person present in the EAP internal defense chain of command.

XIII. ARMED NON-U.S. GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES IN USG FACILITIES

Non-U.S. Government personnel are not permitted to enter U.S. Diplomatic facilities with firearms. Through prior coordination with the RSO, exceptions, such as bodyguards accompanying their protectee, or high-ranking police or military officers, may be granted.

Currency, Banking, and Weights and Measures Last Updated: 7/19/2005 1:27 PM

The Dominican Republic's monetary unit is the peso, written RD$. It fluctuates with the market conditions. Dominican paper currency is in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 and 2,000 peso notes. Vendors accept only pesos in exchange for purchases. The Mission has two ATM machines, one located at the JAO Compound, across the street from the Chancery and USAID buildings, and the other located in the Consular building. These ATM machines as well as most other ATM machines in the country can be used to withdraw cash from U.S. bank accounts via ATM debit card, or from Master Card and Visa accounts.

ATM machines are conveniently located throughout Santo Domingo as well as in the larger cities in the Dominican Republic. Citibank has branches in Santo Domingo and Santiago, and Scotia Bank has branches in Santo Domingo. American employees are permitted to establish peso accounts in any bank in the country; however, local currency accounts are generally unnecessary. Tellers from a local bank are available workdays at both the Chancery and the Consulate to provide accommodation exchange. Employees can cash checks drawn on U.S. banks and receive pesos, or with advance notice, dollars. Officially, the Dominican Republic uses the metric system of weights and measures, but in practice, the U.S. system of ounces, pounds, inches, feet, gallons and miles is also commonly used.

Recommended Reading Last Updated: 7/25/2005 3:25 PM

For in-depth country references, one may wish to consult the Consular information Sheet, Country Background notes, the Country Commercial Guide, and the Country Human Rights Report. These documents may be obtained through the Department of State's website at http://www.state.gov.

The following titles are provided as a general indication of the material published about the Dominican Republic.

Alvarez, Julia. In the Time of the Butterflies. Plume Publishers: New York, 1994.

Atkins, G. Pope. Arms and Politics in the Dominican Republic.Westview Press: Boulder, 1980.

Bell, Ian. The Dominican Republic. Westview Press: Boulder, 1981.

Black, Jan Knippers. The Dominican Republic: Politics and Development in an Unsovereign State. Allen & Unwin: Boston, 1986.

Bosch, Juan. The Unfinished Experiment. Frederick A. Frazer, 1965.

Calder, Bruce J. The Impact of Intervention: The Dominican Republic During the U.S. Occupation of 1916-1924. University of Texas. Press: Austin, 1984.

Crassweller, Robert. Trujillo: The Life and Times of a Caribbean Dictator. MacMillan: New York, 1966.

Diederich, Bernard. Trujillo: The Death of the Goat. Little, Brown & Co.: New York, 1978.

Espaillat, Arturo R. Trujillo: The Last Caesar. Henry Regnery Co: Chicago, 1963.

Ferguson, James. The Dominican Republic: Beyond the Lighthouse. Monthly Review, New York. 1992

Gleijeses, Piero. The Dominican Crisis: The 1965 Constitutionalist Revolt and American Intervention. The Johns Hopkins University Press: Baltimore, 1978.

Grasmuck, Sherry and Patricia R. Pressar. Between Two Islands: Dominican International Migration. University of California Press: Berkeley, Ca. 1991.

Haggerty, Richard A. Dominican Republic and Haiti Country Studies. Federal Research Division Library of Congress. 1991.

Hazzard, Samuel. Santo Domingo, Past and Present, with a Glance at Haiti. Harper and Brothers, New York, 1973 Reprinted 1982 Editor de Santo Domingo, S. A.

Hoetink, Harry. The Dominican Republic, 1900-1950: Historical Sociology. Trans. by Stephen A. Ault Johns Hopkins University Press: Baltimore,1982.

Klein, Alan. Sugarball: The American Game, The Dominican Dream. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1991

Kryzanek, Michael J. and Howard J. Wiarda. The Politics of External Influence in the Dominican Republic. Praeger: New York, 1988.

Lemoine, Maurice. Bitter Sugar: Slaves Today in the Caribbean.

Llosa, Mario Vargas. Feast of the Goat.

Lowenthal, Abraham F. The Dominican Intervention. Harvard University Press, Cambridge, 1975.

Lowenthal, A.F. (ed.) Exporting Democracy: The United States and Latin America. John Hopkins University Press: Baltimore, 1991.

Martin, John Bartlow. Overtaken by Events: The Dominican Crisis from the Fall of Trujillo to the Civil War. Doubleday & Co., Inc.: Garden City, N.Y.

Pons, Frank Moya. The Dominican Republic: A National History. Hispaniola Book, N. Y. 1995 .

Rodman, Seldon. Quisqueya. A History of the Dominican Republic. University of Washington Press, Seattle, 1964.

Rosario, Nelly. Song of the Water Saints.

Skidmore, Thomas and Smith, Peter. Modern Latin America.

Slater, Jerome. Intervention and Negotiation. Harper & Row: New York.

Tucker, Jack, and Ursula Eberhard. Insiders' Guide to the Dominican Republic. Hippocrene Books: New York, 1993.

Welles, Summer. Naboth's Vineyard: The Dominican Republic 1844-1924: Vols. II and I. Arno Press: New York, 1972.

Wiarda, Howard J. and Michael J. Kryzanek. The Dominican Republic: A Caribbean Crucible. Westview Press: Boulder, 1982.

Wucker, Michele. Why the Cocks Fight: Dominicans, Haitians, and the Struggle for Hispaniola.

Various. Dominican Republic and Haiti. Country Studies/Federal Research Division, Library of Congress. U.S. Government Printing Office: Washington, D.C., 1991.

For additional information on the politics, economics, and social events happening in the Dominican Republic, see www.news@drl.com. This news summary is available free on a daily basis via Internet.

Local Holidays Last Updated: 7/27/2005 9:27 AM

New Year's Day January 1 Epiphany January 6 Our Lady of Altagracia January 21 Duarte's Day January 26 Dominican Independence Day February 27 Good Friday Variable Dominican Labor Day May 1 Corpus Christi Variable Dominican Restoration Day August 16 Our Lady of las Mercedes September 24 Dominican Constitution Day November 6 Christmas December 25