DOMINICA – THE NATURE ISLAND OF THE CARIBBEAN
DOMINICA – THE NATURE ISLAND OF THE CARIBBEAN
The Commonwealth of Dominica is an independent island country in the Eastern Caribbean, south of the Leeward Islands. It is the northernmost of the Windward Islands, and should not be confused with the Dominican Republic, the Spanish-speaking Caribbean nation that shares a land border with Haiti. Dominica has a population of nearly 73,000, and its capital is Roseau. Why is Dominica the Nature Island of the Caribbean? It truly lives up to its title because of its unspoiled, natural beauty. The island features rainforests, lush valleys, boiling lakes, hot and cold sulfur springs, volcanic peaks, rivers, waterfalls, and springs at every turn.
Unlike many other Caribbean islands, Dominica has not submitted to mass luxury resort tourism. Instead, it maintains an authentic and intimate atmosphere. As a result, its untouched environment is ideal for nature seekers, hikers, and travellers who want to connect deeply with nature. Although the island has beaches, they are not its main attraction. Due to Dominica’s volcanic makeup, most beaches have black volcanic sand (similar in texture to white sand, but black in colour).
Dominica is among the poorer Caribbean islands and has an agriculture-based economy. It produces and sells bananas, citrus fruits, vegetables, and coconuts, and exports soaps, cocoa, coffee, essential oils, and minerals, electronic equipment, and furniture. Please continue reading to learn more about travelling to Dominica, the Nature Island of the Caribbean.
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ENTRY INTO DOMINICA
Before landing, travellers are treated to the views of lush, green vegetation from the plane. Upon arrival at Douglas-Charles Airport, there is no jet bridge; therefore, all passengers must disembark onto the tarmac and walk to the terminal and vice versa on departure. The airport is small and basic. Customs and Immigration (both arrivals and departures) are located close to each other, and are generally user-friendly.
The departure Immigration officers were quite outgoing. However, the officers on arrival were very serious (not unfriendly), but quite strict. From my observation, many visitors who spent long periods at the counters, were asked to produce additional documents, or step aside.
When I approached the immigration officer, I presented my passport, completed immigration form, copies of my departure airline ticket, and hotel reservation, all at once. She reviewed the documents, stamped my passport, and said, “Welcome to Dominica.” The entire process took less than a couple of minutes. After that, it was on to luggage pickup, Customs scan, and then exit to catch a taxi.
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TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO/FROM THE CITY ROSEAU
The journey from Douglas-Charles Airport to Roseau, the capital, takes approximately one hour to an hour and twenty minutes by taxi due to the terrain. Therefore, for those needing transportation, the information is as follows: Official airport taxis cost a standard US$80 – US$90 (EC$200) per person, available 24/7, and are regulated by the government to prevent overcharging.
For travellers on a tight budget, minibuses are available for EC$15 – EC$20 (US$5.00 – US$8) per person. This is the cheapest and slowest option. However, passengers must walk from the airport to the main road to catch these buses, which are infrequent and inconvenient if you have luggage or arrive after 4:00 p.m., (cut-off time).
Even the taxi ride was long and tiring due to the terrain, so I would not recommend the bus unless you are travelling light and on a strict budget.
Note: There are no Uber, Lyft, or ride-share services operating anywhere on the island.
ABOUT THE CITY OF ROSEAU
Roseau, the official capital and largest city in Dominica, is the island’s main administrative, cultural, and economic hub. It is compact, eco-friendly, and caters to cruise ship visitors and eco-tourists who prefer longer stays. Roseau is the fifth-smallest capital in the Caribbean, with an average population of approximately 17,000.
Downtown Roseau offers attractions such as the Botanic Gardens, historical sites like Fort St Louis, the vibrant Old Market, and a beautiful waterfront. The city feels authentic, non-pretentious, and laidback.
Moreover, Roseau is the only flat area on Dominica’s otherwise mountainous landscape. Its architecture reflects colonial and Victorian influences, with wooden trims and colourful buildings throughout the city.
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Although Roseau does not have large clubs, it does offer nightlife through bars, nightclubs, and live music venues that cater to both locals and visitors. During peak tourist season, unique cultural events such as Folklore Evenings featuring traditional music and costumes are popular. However, this is not the city to choose if you are seeking a vibrant party scene.
The city is easy to navigate on foot, due to its size and flat terrain. Therefore, visitors can explore the main attractions and sites of interest without the strenuous uphill walks, the need for transport, or tour guides. Roseau is generally safe, fairly clean, and free of visible beggars or street dwellers (at least during my visit). Its atmosphere and cultural diversity makes it a fascinating place to visit.
OTHER IMPORTANT FUN FACTS & TIPS ABOUT DOMINICA
- The languages spoken – English (official language) and French Creole.
- Official currency – Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD) / EC$. Currency conversion: US$1 = EC$2.70 – (before bank fees)
- Dominica has 365 rivers, one for every day of the year, and countless waterfalls.
- The island was originally named Waitukubuli, meaning “Tall is her body” by the indigenous Caribs. However, Columbus first discovered Dominica in 1493 on a Sunday and called it Domingo (Sunday in Latin), which then evolved to Dominica.
- Dominica is home to the Mountain Chicken (resembles a frog). It is officially called the Giant Ditch Frog due to its size, and allegedly, it tastes like chicken (I did not and will never confirm that).
- The rare Sisserou Parrot is Dominica’s national bird. The endangered bird is the symbol of Dominica and appears on their national flag.
- Dominica’s culture is a mixture of African, European, and the Indigenous people (Kalinago). Therefore, its influences are reflected in its culture, music, and cuisine.
- The best time to visit Dominica is from February to May, when the weather is drier, and temperatures are excellent. Keep in mind this is the peak tourist season, and comes with higher prices. However, December to the end of January is a bit cheaper, but with a possibility of rain. Note: The rainy season occurs from June to November, with the highest risk of hurricanes from August to October.
- Dominica is home to the only resident Sperm Whale population They actually live in the waters of Dominica, and not simply visit and leave.
- The Morne Trois National Park in Dominica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Currently, Dominica is constructing an international airport, which is expected to be completed in 2027. It is considered the largest project in the history of Dominica and the Eastern Caribbean. The airport will be able to facilitate long-haul flights and wider body aircrafts from Europe, U.S.A etc. Moreover, it aims to increase tourism and direct international flights to Dominica.
- Dominica celebrates its yearly Carnival (Mas Domnik) close to the Lenten season, so it is not a fixed month. It also celebrates and hosts its annual World Creole Music Festival.
- The Waitukubuli National Trail is 115 miles, making it the only long-distance hiking trail in the Caribbean.
- Dominica has the world’s second-largest boiling lake, second to the Frying Pan Lake in New Zealand. The Boiling Lake is in the Morne Trois Pitons Park, and is 200 – 250 feet (60 – 75 m). Temperatures along the edges can reach 180 – 190 degrees Fahrenheit (82 – 92 degrees Celsius.
- Visitors to Dominica can acquire “Citizenship by Investment” (CBI) for US$200,000.00 without the need for residency first. Besides, the CBI index has ranked it at number one for six consecutive years
- Dominica is one of the two countries (South Africa is the other) with the best-tasting bananas. Speaking to one of the locals, who explained that the bananas are grown without the use of chemicals. Whether or not this is the reason, I found that the bananas have a more delicious and sweeter taste than others I have tasted worldwide.
- It’s a common thing in most Caribbean islands to be bombarded by mosquitoes and sand flies, and in Dominica, it is no different. Therefore, be sure to pack (#Ad) mosquito repellent patches or (#Ad) sand flies and all insect repellent, or you will certainly regret not doing so.
- Dominica is one of the youngest islands in the Lesser Antilles and the Caribbean. Furthermore, it continues to form and grow through volcanic and geothermal activities.
- Cricket is the most popular sport in Dominica. Some of its most famous Cricketers are Shane Shillingford, Adam Sandford, Alick Athanaze, and Kavem Hodge.
- Dominica has nine active volcanoes, making it the country with the highest concentration of volcanoes in the Caribbean, relative to its size.
- The national flower of Dominica is the Sabinea Carinalis, also known as Bwa Kwaib or Carib Wood.
- Dominica was used as the filming location for “Cannibal Island” (Hamstead Beach), and some related scenes in the “Dead Man’s Chest” and “At World’s End” from the Movie “The Pirates of the Caribbean.”
- The natural landscape and ecosystems of Dominica are protected by laws. The law curtails the development of the natural landscapes, making it a haven for eco-tourism.
- Dominica has one of the last remaining indigenous Kalinago (black Caribs) populations on the island’s east coast, and they govern themselves. While other Caribbean islands had Kalinago people, Dominica is the only one with a significant community (average 3,000.00). It should be noted that many descended from St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
- Morne Diablotin, located in Morne Diablotin National Park in Dominica at 1.447 meters (4,747 feet), is the tallest peak on the island, and the second-tallest in the Lesser Antilles.
- Dominica is one of the four countries whose national flag contains the colour purple (on the bird’s body). It is the rarest colour in flagology, with the flags of Bolivia, Nicaragua, and El Salvador also having a tiny stripe of the colour.
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ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF DOMINICA
Dominicans are known for their rich Creole culture and strong sense of community, largely due to the island’s small size and population. While they may not make much eye contact, often smile, and may initially appear unfriendly, they are warm, pleasant, and hospitable people. I suppose that the exorbitant prices in the country and economic pressures may contribute to this reserved demeanor.
Despite financial challenges, Dominicans take pride in their country and heritage and are eager to share it with visitors. Notwithstanding, traditional values are highly respected in Dominica, as in most Caribbean islands. Courtesy, respect, and good manners are second-nature, which is why visitors are generally treated with warmth and kindness.
One noticeable linguistic trait I noticed about ALL Dominicans is their pronunciation of the “th” sound in all words containing it. From the man sitting on the street corner to the most learned, it is often articulated very clearly, sometimes sounding like an “f”. This is something I found particularly striking, and it is the first country in which I have observed this.
Everyone I interacted with, from airport staff and guesthouse employees to transport operators and market vendors, was generally down-to-earth, helpful, and very engaging. Dominica is a place where people will stop to offer a ride, especially in areas with infrequent bus service. I extend my thanks to the family who kindly gave me a ride back to the city from the sulphur springs (apologies for not remembering your names).
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DOMINICA SAFETY AND SECURITY
I experienced no issues regarding my personal safety or security in Dominica. It is a safe country where major crimes are rare. Whether it was strolling around town, hiking, walking the beach alone, or out at night, I always felt comfortable and secure. Accepting rides from strangers (something I would not normally do while travelling or not) speaks volumes about the level of safety I felt.
During my stay, I encountered no pickpocketing or petty crime, and did not hear of any robberies or other major incidents.
I observed that some stores, supermarkets, and fast-food restaurants had one or two unarmed security guards, and police officers were always visible on the streets. Therefore, I had a peaceful and safe vacation as a female solo traveller on the island.
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HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?
Dominica is certainly not a budget-friendly destination. Prices for almost everything lean more towards the expensive side. Compared to Guadeloupe and Martinique (two expensive neighboring countries), Dominica is slightly cheaper than Martinique, but a bit more expensive than Guadeloupe, except for public transportation. However, unlike Guadeloupe, Dominica lacks bargain shops and discount stores.
Meals and accommodation are costly, while public transportation (buses) is affordable but often very noisy due to loud music played by operators. Additionally, the souvenirs are also pricier compared to those in other countries. For example, T-Shirts with “Dominica” printed on them typically cost EC$60 – EC$90 (over US$20). However, these same items sell for about US$5 – US$15 in budget-friendly to fairly expensive countries. Therefore, for budget travellers who yearn to travel on a budget, please learn how to plan a vacation with little money.
Note: Budget travellers should set aside at least US$160 – US$180 for round-trip airport transportation before budgeting for other expenses in Dominica.
ABOUT DOMINICA'S CUISINE
Dominica’s cuisine reflects its African, European, and Indigenous heritage. With great emphasis on local produce, root crops, fruits, spices, and a wide variety of fresh fish, Dominica’s dishes are diverse and flavourful. Below are six of its many dishes you should try when visiting Dominica, the nature island of the Caribbean.
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6 MOST POPULAR DOMINICAN DISHES YOU MUST TRY
- Callaloo Soup (National dish) is a rich, green, hearty soup made from dasheen leaves. It also includes dumplings, ground provisions (tannia, dahseen, and yam), coconut milk, salted meat or crab, and spices.
- Mountain Chicken (Crapaud) – This tender meat is usually fried or stewed with local spices. They all agree it is a must-try.
- Bouyon (Traditional Stew/soup) – a one-pot stew with a mixture of meats, beans, dumplings, breadfruit, provisions (dasheen, eddoes, etc.).
- Stewed Salt fish (Codfish) – a very popular food in Dominica, especially in the fried or Accras (saltfish cakes). For the stewed codfish, the fish is soaked to remove some of the salt and then shredded into pieces before being slow-cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices. They then serve it with ground provisions or roasted breadfruit.
- Johnny Cakes (fried bake) – a side dish that is great for breakfast or dinner. It pairs well with soup or stewed codfish. These round, crispy bakes are made from flour and are fried until crispy on the outside and fluffy inside.
- Breadfruit – roasted, steamed, boiled in soup, or fried, breadfruit, a starchy fruit is a staple in Dominica. They serve it as a side or main dish with stewed codfish, herring, or other meats.
6 MUST-DO/VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN GUADELOUPE
- Cabrits National Park – this park features the historic Fort Shirley and various hiking sites.
- Dominica Botanic Gardens – a 40-acre garden of diverse flora and fauna and excellent views of the surrounding mountains.
- Mero Beach or Batibou Beach – both scenic, black sandy beaches and perfect for relaxing.
- Champagne Reef – known for its unique snorkelling and diving. Most interestingly, due to volcanic activities, it creates underwater bubbles.
- Whale Watching – Dominica is home to the only resident Sperm Whale population and the only country where they permanently reside.
- Morne Trois Pitons National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of Boiling Lake, Emerald Pool, and Trafalgar Falls.
Dominica, the Nature Island of the Caribbean Cont….
SUMMARY
Dominica is a destination best suited for nature-loving travellers. If you are seeking luxury beach resorts, a man-made concrete jungle with skyscrapers, and or a party scene, Dominica may not be for you. However, if you desire to be one with nature, enjoy lush landscapes, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and rivers, and, of course, delicious food, then Dominica is the perfect choice. Additionally, the budget traveller will not find it too taxing if they plan well and during the low travel season. I highly recommend Dominica, the nature island of the Caribbean, to all seeking an authentic, natural experience. Travel and Enjoy!
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Very interesting read. U cover it all
The mountain chicken dish is on it way out due to diseases setback.
Nice article Cory
Thanks for sharing the nature island of th3 caribbean.a truly non-pretentious island.
Simply beautiful..thanks for sharing
From what I see and what you wrote.Dominica is really for people who need to get-away from the hustle and back to nature.
We love our island. Thanks for sharing with the world
I learned so muc about Dominicah from the tips section of your article very Interesting indeed
Excellent review of Dominica sounds lovely there
Wow dominica is green serene and sounds just lovely sounds like a place to go recharge my energy
I love these articles most because we get to see your beautiful skin tone Cory all the other articles you were in so much clothes…hehehe no disrespect but even though those were interesting I’m appreciating these Caribbean articles much more beautiful skin tone beautiful photos beautiful scenery beautiful Cory thank you
Thank you Cory for sharing some new perspectives in the caribbean islands I appreciate the time you put into sharing your experiences with us.
Thanks for the information.very detailed.Aurport to city is very expensive wow..for such small island? Hmmm
Although I love nature.i love a vibrant night life and parry secene at the end of the day.but I am sure there are those who crave this much peace and nature.
Lovely island in the caribbean.fair enough review.