Dominica — it is a small island in the Caribbean Sea and occupies a land mass of 289 square miles. The population of Dominica, about 70,000, of which about 3000 are pre-Colombian Caribs. Dominica was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493 and was colonized by France and Great Britain at different periods in Dominica’s history. Independence was gained from Great Britain by Dominica on November 3rd 1978. Thirty years after independence the Dominica enjoys a stable political and economic system. Known as the nature island of the Caribbean, Dominica is a sweet paradise and is renowned for its natural beauty, beautiful rivers and breathtaking scenery.
About Dominica... not the Dominican Republic — Dominica is often confused with the Dominican Republic a larger island in the north of the chain of islands which makes up the Caribbean. To clear up a few facts about Dominica, the Dominican Republic is a Spanish speaking country whereas the Commonwealth of Dominica is an English speaking country. The Dominican Republic shares an island with Haiti. Both countries have different cultures; whilst the Commonwealth of Dominica has a culture based on afro French and Carib heritage the culture of the Dominican Republic is mainly African, Spanish and Tainos (the country’s indigenous people).
A little more about Dominica travel — The island of Dominica has no international airport but getting there is fairly easier. There are flights to Dominica from almost every country in the Caribbean. Persons coming from the continents of North America and Europe can get a connecting flight to Dominica from any of the major travel hubs in the Caribbean, namely Barbados, Antigua, St Lucia and St Maarten. There are two airports in Dominica- the Melville Hall Airport and the Canefield Airport. Canefield Airport is about fifteen minutes away from the capital Roseau and the Melville Hall Airport is approximately one hour and thirty minutes away from the capital.
About Dominica Rain Forest — Dominica is well known for its lush tropical rainforest spanning over huge expanses of land. The Dominica rainforests are home to many species of fauna and flora. In Dominica, there are approximately 175 species of birds, making the forests of Dominica the ideal place for bird watching. Birds include the Sisserou Parrot, the national bird of Dominica which is also endemic to the country. The Dominica tropical forests are a major source of water supply for Dominica’s 365 rivers. The Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a protected rain forest in Dominica, is a World Heritage Site. The park became a World heritage site in 1997 and is home to the world’s second largest boiling lake, the Trafalgar Falls, Emerald Pool, Boeri Lake, and Fresh Water Lake, among other attractions found in the beautiful island of Dominica.
One cannot get bored in Dominica! The list of activities is endless. There is an adventure for everyone. Activities include diving; Dominica was rated in the top five for best diving in the world. The marine life in Dominica is well protected and there is an abundance of healthy reefs alive with beautiful coral and colorful tropical fish. For the adventurous person Dominica offers hiking through the rainforests and mountains, including horseback riding through the lush interiors or adventure rides on ATV’s. For the nature friendly individual there are many guided tours to the rain forest and other points of interest.
About Dominica festivals — The island of Dominica celebrates many festivals, the most popular being the World Creole Music Festival and Carnival. Dominica carnival is a colorful event celebrated 2 days before the start of the Lenten season. Carnival in Dominica begins with a main street parade and ends with two days of “Jump Up” (street party). The World Creole Music Festival is celebrated during the national independence festivities each year and is usually carded for the last weekend in October over a three night period. World Creole Music Festival in Dominica has featured French, Creole, reggae and international artists, to include Kassav, Shaggy, Carimi, Sakis, Franky Vincent, and Tambou Combo.
About Dominica currency — The currency of Dominica is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). The XCD is exchanged at EC$2.70 to US$1. All banks and major businesses on Dominica accept most international debit and credit cards. Major currencies such as United States Dollar, British Pound, European Dollars and Canadian Dollars are all accepted at local banks. There are ATMs available at most banks and at other locations.
More about Dominica — Dominica has a tropical climate and visitors are advised to wear light cotton clothing and other fabrics fit for the climate. Normal commercial work hours are from eight in the morning to four in the afternoon. But more and more major stores and supermarkets are adopting longer operating hours. There are some great places to shop for souvenirs and a few duty free shops are also available.
About Dominica Hotels — Dominica hotels are a great place to stay when visiting the Caribbean. Accommodations in Dominica range from eco lodges, to cottages, inns, villas, guest houses and hotels, all at very reasonable prices. There are many great restaurants which provide delicious meals made out of fresh produce. The local meals which are prepared using afro- French methods taste the best! Lots of fresh fruit and fruit juices and cocktails are also available.
About getting around Dominica — Getting around the Dominica is very easy. There is a public transport system where persons make use of mini vans or buses, which is what the locals call them. In Dominica there are several car rental agencies and renting a vehicle is a simple process. There are taxi services available for trips around Dominica.
The island of Dominica is beautiful, peaceful and always welcomes visitors with open arms, so come to Dominica and enjoy what Dominica is all about, nature at its best!
