The Segmental Info System

Welcome to Dominica

The Dominica Guide is your comprehensive guide to the youngest island in the Caribbean. Although it is one of the few places in the region that isn't known for its beaches, as the home of several rain forests and numerous species of exotic wildlife, Dominica is a favorite destination for ecotourism.

 

A mountainous island with tropical rain forests, Dominica's has a relatively stable year-round temperature averaging around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with high humidity which is moderated by northeastern trade winds. Seasons are determined more by rainy and dry weather periods than by temperature, and vacationers should bring proper attire, especially if they are planning to hike in the rain forest, where it rains nearly every day. All the information you will need can be found in our detailed month-by-month weather guide...

January May   September
February     June October
March July November
April August    
December

 

The key to a perfect trip is to do as much planning as possible beforehand. Take the time to familiarize yourself with all that Dominica has to offer and you're sure to enjoy the vacation of your dreams...

When to Go

The weather during the tourist season tends to be nicer, but planning a trip during the off-season will most certainly save you money.  These are just a few considerations to take into account when planning when to go to Dominica...

Clothing and Attire

With more than 300 hiking trails in Dominica, it is likely that you will spend some time exploring the island on foot.  Make sure to pack light weight, comfortable clothing, as well as walking shoes...

 

Find the perfect hotel using our powerful advanced search tool.


 

For many travelers, one of the best things about traveling to a foreign country is the opportunity to sample food they may not have had the chance to enjoy back home.  Others dread the unfamiliarity more than anything.  Luckily, in Dominica there are food options for both...

Culinary Styles

Vacationers will find a unique and delicious mixture of culinary styles on the island, derived from Creole and British influences. Fresh vegetables and fruits grown from the island's rich soil complement delicacies such as smoked opossum, as well as shellfish gathered from the sea and mountain streams. West Indian styles are prevalent in a commonly served curry sauce made with Scotch bonnet peppers. Accompanying the eclectic menus found on Dominica, visitors will find tropical beverages, regional beers and imported wines to enhance their meal...

Restaurants

Dominica offers an interesting variety of restaurants for vacationers to choose from. Whether it be Asian, French, or African cuisine that tempts you, this island will satisfy. Roseau, Castle Comfort, Concord, and Portsmouth offer a concentration of eateries. Although most dining establishments remain open throughout the week, many are closed on Sundays. Other issues worth considering include proper attire, reservations, and accepted currencies. Our comprehensive restaurant guide will provide you with all of the information you need to plan ahead...

 

Dominica isn't a large island, but taking advantage of the local transportation options will help you in your quest to see every nook and cranny of this Caribbean paradise...

Taxis

Taxis in Dominica are more than just a means of getting from one place to another.  Many drivers are knowledgeable in history and attractions, and are able to provide tours to guests who are willing to pay for it...

Buses

Bus services in Dominica are actually provided by privately owned minivans.  These buses can seat up to 15 passengers comfortably, and fares are set based upon your destination...

Ferries and Boats

Travelers are able to take day trips from Dominica to Martinique or Guadeloupe aboard a ferry.  This method of travel is more time consuming, but is definitely more affordable than flying...

 

For many years, control of Dominica was passed back and forth between France and Great Britain.  All though the island is now British, France has left a permanent stamp on Dominica.  Today, the official language is English, but there are many islanders who still speak with in a localized Creole dialect, and many street signs appear in French...

History

Though the Arawak people from South America were the original settlers of Dominica, by the time Columbus arrived on the island, they were gone and the Carib Indians ruled the roost.  Unlike many other Caribbean nations, Carib Indians still inhabit Dominica to this day...

Economy

Agricultural has been at the top of the economic food chain since the discovery of Dominica, but in recent years the island has branched out to include tourism and oil refinery at the top of the list...

Crime

Despite the increase of crimes such as petty theft in recent years, Dominica is still relatively safe.  Vacationers can further protect themselves by taking a few simple precautions...

 

 

Every day life may be just a little different in Dominica than what you are used to back home.  Take the time to read up on some of the topics you may not consider to be important to know about before you leave for your vacation; like tipping etiquette, telephone use, and hours of operation...

Currency and Credit Cards

While the Eastern Caribbean Dollar is the official form of currency in Dominica, the United States Dollar, the Euro, and the British Pound are all widely accepted.  Travelers may also choose to pay by credit card at many businesses as well...

Customs

Customs officials work hard to ensure that their country stays safe by prohibiting certain types of items.  You can make their jobs easier, and your trip through customs smoother by arriving prepared... 

More Topics:

Driving Passports
Electricity Postal Services
Embassies Telephones
Health and Medical Time Zones
Hours of Operation Tipping
Languages Tourist Offices

 

Visitors to Dominica, will experience some of the most beautiful natural areas in the Caribbean. From Trafalgar Falls to the World-famous Boiling Lake, there are many awe-inspiring sites to behold. And in addition to national parks and hiking opportunities, visitors can simply relax and contemplate the Atlantic Ocean or Caribbean Sea from the uncrowded, rocky shoreline...

Beaches

The beaches of Dominica are unique in their beauty, comprised mainly of black and gold sands.  The sands tend to be more rocky than fine, so sunbathers would do well to bring a beach chair...

 

Your travel priorities should be the major factor in determining how you'll reach Dominica. If you'd like to get to the island as fast as possible, air travel may be right for you. If you're of the opinion that getting there should be half the fun, look into cruises. Travelers with seafaring experience (or the desire to gain some) can even try their hand at sailing and yachting...

 

Enjoying a home away from home is easy when you stay in an island rental property, but If a luxurious getaway is at the top of your list, check out your All-inclusive resorts options.  Whatever your choice, you are sure to be impressed with the wide array of hotels and resorts found on Dominica...