At 26 million years young, Dominica is the newest Caribbean island. Erosion has yet to take its toll on the island, and young rain forests are still growing.
Even the most intrepid travelers will appreciate the sights of Dominica. The island's most popular activities are nature-oriented, from hiking to whale watching. Dominica is the largest and most mountainous of the Windward Islands. Even so, it is not very large, and is wedged between the French Caribbean territories of Martinique and Guadeloupe. For more information on Dominica, visit the CIA World Factbook for Dominica.
| Currency | The official currency of Dominica is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$). The U.S. dollar is widely accepted, but you may still receive change in EC$. The exchange rate is about EC$2.61 to each US$1 (EC$1 = US$0.38) |
| Electricity | U.S. visitors need both adapters and transformers, as the electrical current is 220/240 volts AC, 50 cycles. |
| GDP Per Capita | The average per capita income is $9,900(USD). |
| Island Size | The island is approximately 290 square miles in area. |
| Language | English is the official language, but Creole and French are widely spoken. |
| Population | The island is home to about 73,193 people, and sees about 66,400 visitors annually, 22 percent of whom come from the U.S. |
Getting There
Dominica's travelers usually arrive by air at Melville Hall Airport or Cane Field Airport. Neither handles direct flights from North America or Europe. Several different regional and international airlines offer service to Dominica, most often connecting via San Juan (Puerto Rico) or other major Caribbean airports.
Melville Hall Airport, the larger of the two, is on the northeastern coast of the island. The newer (and smaller) Cane Field Airport is about 15 minutes north of Roseau. A great deal of the central region of the island is forest reserve, so any drive across the center of the island is scenic and naturally beautiful, but taxi prices can be steep here.
Boats sail to Dominica from Martinique and Guadeloupe, and car ferries sail from Pointe-à-Pitre five to seven times a week.
Entry Requirements
All visitors to Dominica, including those from within the Caribbean, must have a valid passport and an ongoing or return ticket.
Climate
Temperatures drop sharply as evening approaches, especially in more elevated areas. Most of the island's 78 inches of annual precipitation falls during the rainy season from June to October. Hurricane Season lasts from June 1 to November 1, and although Dominica has had its share of storms, advance warnings get tourists out of the country in time. Hurricanes are one of the most predictable natural phenomenon, and thus pose little threat to tourists. Average temperatures range from 71 to 82 degrees in January, and from 76 to 86 degrees in July (all in degrees Fahrenheit).
Geography
Dominica is a nature lovers' haven, with diverse natural formations and lush vegetation. A thick rain forest and high mountains cover this Caribbean island. The highest point on Dominica is 4,747 feet (1,424 meters) above sea level on Morne Diablotin. Dominica is easily the most untouched and rugged island of the Caribbean. And despite mediocre beaches, you may still find yourself swimming in clear lakes and rivers, near waterfalls, and in hot springs.
Health and Safety
Crime is rare in Dominica, but you should follow basic safety precautions such as traveling in groups. Roads are difficult to navigate in Dominica, and it is easy to get lost in the wilderness; hire a local guide and keep maps handy. Water is potable from taps, as well as from springs and lakes in the high mountains.
People
Rural life is the way here. Caribs, the native people of the Caribbean, live together on the island and make baskets, a popular souvenir for many visitors. Conservative and religious, locals frown upon revealing clothing that seems mainstream to many Westerners, so be sure to bring casual and light, but modest, clothing.
Knowing what to expect from your destination is one simple way to ensure that you're prepared.
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