What are the local pastimes?
Dominican life is infused with the sounds of merengue, bachata, salsa, and regaeton music and dancing that is practiced by young and old at all social gatherings. Trainees will receive lessons in local music and dancing soon after their arrival in country. Baseball is a national obsession and most Dominicans are up-to-date experts on the latest baseball statistics, standings, and news. Many Dominicans (especially boys and men) participate in local teams and competitions. Many Dominican players like Sammy Sosa, Miguel Tejada, Manny Ramirez, and Alex Rodriguez are among the best in American baseball. Many of these players return to the Dominican Republic to participate in the Dominican Winter League season from October to February. Dominican baseball games, usually far more animated than their American counterparts, are lively affairs with cheerleaders, singing, drum bands, and revelry. Family and social life revolves around the Dominican front porch – a usually shaded place with rocking
