Plan a
different Caribbean holiday on the nature island of Dominica
Photo
Roseau in Dominica CC BY-NC 2.0 by Wayne
Hsieh
Caribbean
island holidays are a popular option, but often visitors are disappointed
by the whole package tour air of certain islands, with their crowds of
tourists. Dominica is a little different from most – an unspoiled and lovely
getaway. Dominica is the ideal place for lovers of diving and those who
love to explore out in nature.
Often
confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is a paradise, all on its
own. While the island lacks the normal, huge resort hotels of the other
Caribbean islands, there is a great selection of smaller, eco-minded hotels
and self-catering accommodation to suit everyone and the towns of the island
offer many options to eat the local and delicious cuisine in Roseau and
Calibishie. The people of Dominica are genuinely warm and welcoming, only
too happy to show visitors their island.
Hiking
through nature
Enjoy
exploring the spectacular landscape with sparkling waterfalls, trickling
streams and dense mountain rainforest, the perfect spot for hiking out
in the heart of nature. Along the way visit the amazing array of flora
and fauna.
In
fact, Dominica offers the Caribbean’s first long distance trail, the Waitukubuli
National Trail, which heads through the Carib territory, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site and home to the indigenous peoples of the island, heading
up to Morne Trois Pitons National Park to visit the world’s second largest
Boiling Lake. The trail is ideal for singles, families and couples,
as it has been divided into easy, intermediate and advanced hikes, making
it perfect for anyone.
Taking
the Syndicate Nature Trail at the foot of Dominica’s tallest mountain,
Morne Diablotin, visitors can view some of the 51 species of local and
migrant birds of Dominica, an ideal trail for bird watchers and lovers.
Head to Titou Gorge in the Roseau Valley of the island where it is possible
to swim from the base of a stunning waterfall through a variety of natural
caves and ponds.
A
great hike is available for those with that extra bit of stamina, where
visitors can hike the Jaco Flats and Steps. The area is named after a runaway
slave called Jaco who took refuge there, and access is via a flight of
135 steps up a steep incline, built by the slaves who used to live there.
However, the view from the top is well worth the effort.
Underwater
explorations
For those
who prefer to be in the water, Dominica is an under-sea wonderland, offering
some of the best diving in the Caribbean. The pristine marine habitat is
fascinating to explore. Visit the Soufriere Scott’s Head Marine Reserve
in the southwest of the island which offers fascinating volcanic underwater
features and unspoiled coral walls.
Head
to the Cabrits National Park Marine Section in the north of Dominica, well
known for a large variety of rare fish and the some of the best reef diving
in the Caribbean. For a dive with a difference, head to the “Champagne”
dive site where you can swim through the warm and bubbling waters generated
by geothermal vents.
Relax
on the Beach
Dominica
is ideal for those who just want to relax on the beach and get a good suntan.
While the island doesn’t have as many beaches as its Caribbean neighbours,
there are still some excellent bays to enjoy, especially in the north of
the island.
The
best beach to visit is Batibou Beach, a remote and beautiful spot around
15-minutes walk from Calibishie (or a 4x4 drive down a steep and rough
road). The golden sand is lined by waving palm trees in the true Caribbean
style, but without the crowds.
In
conclusion, if you are looking for an unspoiled paradise for your holiday
this year, head to Dominica. Learn more about the island in the video included
below.
