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Description
Dominica is called the "Nature Island of the Caribbean. Without a doubt, the rolling hills, energetic rivers
and beautiful forests contribute to that name. Ready to get physical? How about a 3 hour hike  over vhallenging terrain to Boling Lake? Of course there is the 3 hour hike out
as well. If that's not challenging enough, there is always an excursion to the peak of Morne Diablotin (Devil's
Mountain) in the Northern Forest Reserve (4747ft.)
Or you can do nothing at all. Miles of secluded beaches beckon. Take a leisure cruise on a bike and enjoy the wonders
of the contryside at your own pace. Take in some shopping at the numerous little shops offering arts and crafts
of the island. Or sample the many restaurants offering local creole cuisine, fresh fruits, and of course home made
ice cream.
History
Dominica was the last of the Caribbean islands to be colonized by Europeans, due chiefly to the fierce resistance
of the native Caribs. France ceded possession to Great Britain in 1763, which made the island a colony in 1805.
In 1980, two years after independence, Dominica's fortunes improved when a corrupt and tyrannical administration
was replaced by that of Mary Eugenia CHARLES, the first female prime minister in the Caribbean, who remained in
office for 15 years. Some 3,000 Carib Indians still living on Dominica are the only pre-Columbian population remaining
in the eastern Caribbean.
Dominica at a Glance
Language:
English, Creole (A language primarily based on French with Carib loan words and West African syntax)
Government:
Parliamentary democracy; republic within the Commonwealth
Capital:
Roseau
Size:
289 sq. miles (749 sq. km)
Location:
Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from Puerto
Rico to Trinidad and Tobago
Climate:
Average daytime temperatures range from 75-85 F, with cooler temperatures in the mountains. Dry season is from
January to April. Rainy season is from July to October.
Electricity:
220/240 volts. A transformer is required for all appliances. Outlets are three-prong European-style. Adapters may
be needed. Appliances rated at 110 volts (US Standard) works satisfactorily with a transformer. Most hotels provide
dual voltage shaver units. An adaptor plug is necessary for small appliances.
Currency:
The Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$) is the currency used locally. At the banks you will get EC$2.67 per US$1 cash,
and EC$2.68 per US$1 travellers’ cheques. United States dollar, British Pounds and the Euro currency are acceptable
everywhere on the island.
Driving:
Driving is on the left side of the road, a local drivers’ permit is required and can be obtained from the airports,
car rentals agencies, and the Traffic Department on High Street in Roseau, (Monday-Friday) 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Fees
are US$12.00 or EC$30.00 for one (1) month, and US$23.00 or EC$60.00 for three (3) months.
One must be between the ages of 25-65, have a least two (2) years driving experience and present a valid drivers’
licence when applying for a permit.
Car Rentals:
There are a handful of small, usually family-owned car-rental companies, the condition and price of whose vehicles
vary widely. |
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Rates & Services Listed are Subject to Change
© 2005 Caribbean Travelweb
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