CaribbeanTravel.com Directory - (Page 101) DOMINICA naturally lush and UNSPOILED D ominica’s pre-Columbian name Wai’tu kubuli means “Tall is her body” — a most fitting name for an island whose spine of volcanic peaks rises to 4,800 feet above sea level. One of the planet’s top eco-tourism destinations, Dominica’s jungle-entwined mountainous terrain and rocky coastline have discouraged large scale development. As a result, about 60 percent of this 290 square mile island remains forested with virgin flora including several rare endemic species such as its colorful national bird, the Sisserou parrot. Nicknamed “the Nature Island,” Dominica has been the setting for two Pirates of the Caribbean movies and other adventure films. Most of the island’s 70,000 residents live in and around the capital city, Roseau, and much of the island — above and below the se a — is preserved as national park. Eco-friendly accommodations are tucked into the craggy mountains. Small beachfront hotels and villas often sport walkways along the rocky shore. Intimate cottages and lodges nestle along river valleys and on mountain peaks, or perch on stilts in the rainforest, serving as centers for natural adventures. In addition, several jungle spas use the island’s natural hot springs, mineral-rich mud and organic gardens along with yoga, massage and/or chiropractic treatments. HOT SPRINGS, COOL RIVERS Ongoing geothermal activity and fastflowing rivers provide other unusual experiences. Hikers can dip into secluded hot springs and cool off at river swimming holes and stunning waterfalls. Divers and snorkelers feel heated water rising through undersea vents and view “champagne” bubbles as well as submerged coralcoated peaks inhabited by frogfish, flying gurnards and other rarely-seen species. Beachgoers find rugged, volcanic, blacksand beaches as well as a handful of goldensand coves. The island also provides prime waters for sperm whales, spotted dolphins and other species, making it the whalewatching capital of the Caribbean. Adventurous visitors can go river tubing, kayak from river to ocean, enjoy DOMINICA GEOGRAPHY: Dominica, located between Guadeloupe and Martinique, has 290 square miles of terrain and is the largest of the Lesser Antilles. The highest point, Morne Diablotin, is 4,747 feet. LANGUAGE: English is the official language. Creole or French-based patois is spoken by many. POPULATION: 69,625 (2001). CLIMATE: Daytime temperatures vary between 75ºF & 90 ºF. Coolest months are December to March. TIME: EST +1. GMT -4. 101
For optimal viewing of this digital publication, please enable JavaScript and then refresh the page. If you would like to try to load the digital publication without using Flash Player detection, please click here.