Dominica
Dominica, known as the "Nature Isle of the Caribbean," is bordered by Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south. The island is full of beautiful landscapes, boutique resorts, waterfalls, volcanoes, coral reefs, white and black sandy beaches, and fewer crowds compared to other islands nearby.
Roseau, Dominica's capital, is easily explored on foot or on a guided tour.
Visitors that arrive on the island from cruise ships will dock at the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth, Woodbridge Bay, or Cabrits Cruise Ship Berth.
Taxis are available at the airports and in Roseau and can be arranged all over the island.
The oldest part of Roseau town is around Old Market Square, where vendors market for cruise and other visitors. The Old Post Office building is now the home of the Visitors' Information Centre and the Dominica Museum. The Roseau Cruise Ship berth sits across from the Museum and cruise visitors can walk directly into the city for shopping and tours.
Morne Bruce is located just above the Botanical Gardens, which gives you a panoramic view of the entire city, a favourite of cruise visitors because it is so easily done in a short amount of time. Other historic sites include the Fort Young Hotel, Anglican Church, President’s Office (state house), the Carnegie Library, the Cenotaph, and the slave monument all on Victoria Street.
A little way inland from Roseau and surrounded by tropical forest is the tiny village of Wotten Waven.
You will find the hot springs at Bongo Baths in Wotten Waven, an inland village in the heart of a mountain rainforest. Remnant volcanic activity below the earth's surface heats the mineral-rich hot springs, which are wonderfully relaxing to soak in. The detoxifying waters are said to have therapeutic effects, which may include reducing stress, promoting better sleep, boosting blood circulation, and naturally relieving pain. The minerals in the water might also alleviate skin problems.
Trafalgar Falls, located in the Saint Patrick Parish region of Dominica, has two stunning waterfalls and a secluded sulphur spa. The popular site is only a 20-minute drive from Roseau and features a viewing platform.
Scotts Head, a small village located on the southwest coast 1 hour from Roseau, overlooks Soufrière Bay, a popular diving and snorkeling destination worldwide.
You can also hike a portion of the Waitukubuli Trail, which offers stunning views of mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, and local farms.
Morne Trois Pitons National Park, named after the mountain of three peaks, is a must-visit for nature lovers. This region is known for its high level of volcanic activity such as the Valley of Desolation, a location with boiling mud ponds and geysers.
You can also see the Boiling Lake, Titou Gorge, and Emerald Pool, all of which are uniquely beautiful.
Hiking to the world's second largest boiling lake is one of the best experiences in Dominica, but it's also one of the most demanding hikes on the island. Unless you are very familiar with the terrain, it is highly recommended to hire a guide ahead of time to accompany you.
Champagne Reef is a popular destination for diving and snorkelling and is home to a variety of colourful sponges, crinoids, and sea creatures, including octopuses, rays, hawksbill turtles, and seahorses. Additionally, you may even come across the remains of a Spanish shipwreck.
Cabrits National Park is located on a peninsula on the north end of the island just beyond the town of Portsmouth. Nearby, you can also visit Fort Shirley.
Calibishie is a charming fishing village also on the north coast. Besides beach activities, visitors can enjoy freshwater rivers, rainforest hikes, and exotic birds.
The Indian River features wetlands dominated by buttressed Bwa Mang trees. Skilled boatmen can guide you past various wildlife and plant life along the swampy banks. You can also visit the famous 'Bush Bar' up the river and enjoy local cuisine, smoked fish, and signature rum drinks while taking in the scenery. The river was also a filming location for Pirates of the Caribbean.
There is a catamaran and ferry service between the islands of Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and St. Lucia.
English is the official language of Dominica; however, a large portion of the population speaks Kwéyòl, which is based primarily on French and Carib vocabularies and a syntax borrowed from a variety of West African indigenous languages.
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). Everywhere on the island accepts United States Dollars, British Pounds, and Euros. Major Credit Cards are also accepted.
Dominica's electrical services use 220/240 volts.
The island's area code is 767.
