Approximately 80 thousand people live in Dominica. Therefore, it is strange to hear about the top ten, or even twenty best cities. In terms of population and infrastructure development, they are inferior to some Russian villages. But there are reasons for such poverty of these communities. First, the country has been living an independent life not so long ago. Second, it has recently suffered a devastating invasion of a terrible hurricane, which deprived many residents of a roof over their heads.
But on this “Island of Nature”, as the country is used to being called, there is a lot that an inquisitive tourist would like to see. The wild nature of the island of volcanic origin is frightening and alluring, reminiscent of the plots of fascinating adventure films.
Roseau
The capital and the largest city of Dominica is inhabited by about 17 thousand people. It is the center of culture, politics, history, trade and architecture. The city is located not far from natural wonders such as Trafalgar Falls and Boiling Lake.
Roseau cannot be called a modern city in the understanding of Europeans. It has a pedagogical institute, its own television company and radio station. But there are enough architectural monuments for two cities.
The cobblestone, paved in the 17th century, still remains a silent monument, reminiscent of the monstrous era of slave-owning lawlessness.
The city is trying to preserve and increase the number of tropical plants. On the outskirts of the city, on a large territory, there is a botanical garden, where rare specimens are presented. Tourism and the export of lime and its juice are the main sources of funding.
Portsmouth
In terms of size, this city ranks second here. Its population is only 3 thousand people. The city attracts the attention of tourists with such interesting sights as:
- Fort Shirley;
- Indian River;
- Prince Rupert Bay Port;
- Cabrits National Park.
Of particular interest to tourists are boat tours on the river. They pass through mangroves, which were included in the cult film “Pirates of the Caribbean”.
Three days a week, trade is in full swing here. On Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, local farmers sell fresh vegetables and fruits. On the way back, tourists can buy tastefully prepared pickles here.
Marigot
This is another large settlement in Dominica. The presence of an airport makes this coastal city a convenient place to start your trip around the country. But it is worth visiting even without this obvious advantage. You will be fascinated by the hospitality of the locals, the pristine beauty of nature.
In the vastness of the Northern Forest Reserve, you can see unique birds, enjoying walks along narrow paths under the shade of a dense forest. The city makes a lot of efforts to preserve the environment. Attracting many tourists, they are vigilant here to ensure that they do not harm green spaces.
Marigot is rich in fish. This is why many tourists come here. You will be offered huge carcasses of coryphaena. Basically, fish is bought here, in large quantities. But if you only need a piece, it will be cut for you. It will cost you very little.
Scotts Head
This small fishing village is located at the point where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. The unique location of the settlement allows you to develop diving and snorkeling here. In the rural settlement, with the support of the government, micro-districts are being held to create the best conditions for the development of underwater entertainment
Calibishie
This small village can hardly be called a city. But it is also difficult to ignore it. The amazing beauty of the local mountains with red rocks, calm beaches, among which Batibu stands out, have a magical effect on tourists.
The local community, together with the country’s Maritime Association, is making a lot of efforts to protect the marine environment. At the same time, they do not forget about measures to create conditions to attract more tourists.
Prices in Dominica
Prices on the island are not very high. For example, a full three-course dinner for two people in a mid-level restaurant costs no more than 50 US dollars. A good quality bottle of wine will cost 8-10 USD.
Food prices vary. Meat, bread, cheese, quite expensive. But all vegetables and fruits are very cheap. The cost of one kg is a little more than a dollar. Beer, the favorite alcoholic beverage of the local population, also costs less than $2 per half-liter.
We advise you to definitely try a few local dishes:
- Lambi is a delicacy made from shellfish;
- Manicou – fried opossum;
- Crab backs – crab meat dishes;
- Bello hot pepper sause – traditional Caribbean hot sauce;
- Sea moss is a mint-flavored drink made from sea moss.
Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around the country. There is public transport, but it does not work according to the schedule. Once you get a car for rent, you can drive it anywhere. You just need to be careful. The roads of the Dominican Republic are far from ideal. Asphalt is not everywhere. Along the way, you can find washed-out roads, pits, fallen trees. But it’s fun.
Taxi is a good option for tourists. You can arrange by the hour. It costs $15 per hour. Depending on the car, the cost of a taxi from morning to 5 pm will be from 70 to 90 US dollars. You need to keep in mind that prices from and to the airports are fixed by the government and cannot be changed by taxi drivers. For example, a taxi from Douglas-Charles- Airport to Roseau costs 35 US dollars.
Places to visit in Dominica
It is too early to visit Dominica for a comfortable vacation. The tourism development here is just beginning to assert itself. Romantics who are in love with nature, appreciate history and are not afraid of difficulties come to the Dominican Republic. Here you can have a great time in the jungle, on mountain waterfalls, on dangerous sea depths. And all this against the backdrop of the alluring nature of the island. Adventures will bring impressions that will stay with you for a lifetime. We advise you to see the following attractions in Dominica.
Boiling Lake — is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Just imagine that the temperature of the water in the open air reaches 90 degrees. The surface of the lake is always covered with thick steam. It is not easy to get here through the jungle. Do not go there without good sneakers, thick clothes, fresh water and food.
Emerald Lake — place where the water in the lake is really emerald in color, but perfectly clean. It is better to come here in hot weather. The water is icy: you can’t swim in normal weather. It is better to come to the lake before the influx of tourists in order to get plenty of solitude for them.
Trafalgar Falls — The amazing beauty of the local nature and two similar streams falling from a height attract tens of thousands of tourists. The road to the waterfall passes through an amazing forest and takes only a 15-minute walk from the capital.
Champagne Beach — At first glance, there is nothing special about it. A beach is like a beach. To understand the origin of its name, you need to dive underwater. From the bottom of the sea, air bubbles rise in an endless stream, like hissing champagne. This is the effect of geothermal activity, which is particularly pronounced in this area of the island. The beach is visited by many tourists. It is considered one of the best on the planet for diving. The beach got this advantage due to the large reef and deep cliff.
Scots Head — The village with this name is not particularly remarkable. There are a couple of semblances of cafes that do not deserve attention. But you must visit this place to enjoy the invisible landscape. By the way, there is an excellent beach and the opportunity to go diving and snorkeling. But you need to be careful, because at depth, the water current is quite strong.
How to get Dominica dual citizenship
There is only one way to dual citizenship in this island state: through the “Citizenship by Investment” program. The method is available only to those people who are able and ready to contribute up to 200,000 US dollars to the economy. One can choose from two ways of investments:
- make a contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund. This money will be spent on infrastructure, agriculture and tourism.
- Purchase real estate. It must cost at least $200,000. It cannot be sold for 3 years.
Applicants are subject to requirements for age, no criminal record, purity of income, and absence of diseases. The application procedure goes through an authorized agent.
FAQ
No vaccinations are required.
Dual citizenship is allowed in Dominica. It is not necessary to renounce your citizenship.
Dominica is an independent state. It gained independence from Britain in 1978.