I am British but live in a rural mountainous area of the Dominican Republic among the coffee plantations. I left the UK when I was 31, burnt-out by the constant routine and rat-race, and have now been here for 10-years. I am known by the locals as the “Rubia” (Blondie), and although my Spanish is still, after all these years, horrible, I love it here. The people are friendly and hospitable, and the way of life is relaxed. It’s a place were people always have a smile and time for you…plus I certainly do not miss the cold weather of the UK. 

Living in a developing country like the DR has helped me to grow as a person, appreciate what I have, and keep a balance on the priorities of life. Although my business is important to me, being here has helped me to keep it in its place and not be consumed by work. I have come to understand that valuing people and time, over money and possessions, is a happier more successful way of living life. 

For fun, I love to ride my little Honda 230 dirt-bike in the mountain trails with friends. I am also a runner and this year I did my first marathon and completed my first ultra distance of 50k. I am currently in training for a 75k non-stop distance. I am also a big foodie and love to eat (the real reason why I run lol).