festivites
Dominica celebrates a variety of cultural and traditional holidays throughout the year, including:
1. Independence Day: Celebrated on November 3rd to commemorate the country's independence from Britain in 1978. The day is marked with parades, cultural shows, and speeches.
2. Carnival: Celebrated in February or March, just before the start of Lent. It is a colorful two-day festival filled with music, dancing, and masquerade costumes.
3. Creole Day: Celebrated on the last Friday in October, this holiday highlights the island's rich Creole culture, language, and cuisine. People dress up in traditional Creole clothing, cook local dishes, and participate in various activities such as storytelling and dance performances.
4. Good Friday and Easter Monday: These holidays mark the Christian observance of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. Many Dominicans attend church services and participate in processions, while others take advantage of the long weekend to spend time with family and friends.
5. Christmas and Boxing Day: Dominicans celebrate Christmas with typical Caribbean flair, including festive lights, decorations, and music. On Boxing Day (December 26th), people enjoy outdoor activities such as picnics, beach parties, and cricket matches.
6. National Day of Community Service: Celebrated on August 4th, this holiday encourages community service and volunteerism. People across the island participate in clean-up campaigns, tree-planting initiatives, and other community-based projects.
These holidays and festivities are celebrated throughout Dominica, with each community adding its unique flavor to the traditions.
seasons
Dominica has two tourist seasons:
1. High Season - December to April, which is the dry season and considered the best time to visit for hiking and whale watching.
2. Low Season - May to November, which is the rainy season and considered the best time for diving and snorkeling due to warmer water temperatures and better visibility.
Recommendations:
- Bring insect repellent and rain gear during the low season.
- Book accommodations in advance during the high season as it can get crowded and prices are generally higher.
- Check weather forecasts before embarking on outdoor activities.
visa
Citizens of most countries can enter Dominica without a visa for stays up to 6 months. However, there are some special visa rules that apply to certain countries:
1. China: Chinese citizens require a visa to enter Dominica, which can be obtained from the Embassy of Dominica in Beijing. The cost of a single-entry visa is approximately $130 USD.
2. Cuba: Cuban citizens require a visa to enter Dominica, which can be obtained from the Embassy of Dominica in Havana. The cost of a single-entry visa is approximately $80 USD.
3. Haiti: Haitian citizens require a visa to enter Dominica, which can be obtained from the Embassy of Dominica in Port-au-Prince. The cost of a single-entry visa is approximately $80 USD.
It's important to note that visa requirements and costs may change over time, so it's always best to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
souvenirs
1. Handcrafted baskets made from local plant materials such as bamboo or banana leaf, with prices ranging from $20 to $50 USD. These can be found at the Roseau Market or at roadside craft stands throughout the island.
2. Local spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla can be purchased for around $10 to $15 USD per jar. Look for them at supermarkets or specialty food stores in towns like Roseau or Portsmouth.
3. Carib beer or rum is a popular souvenir from Dominica, with prices ranging from $20 to $40 USD. Look for them at supermarkets or liquor stores on the island.
4. Artisanal soaps made from natural ingredients like coconut oil or cocoa butter can be bought for around $5 to $10 USD per bar. These can be found at gift shops or online.
5. Handmade jewelry crafted from local stones or shells can be purchased for around $20 to $50 USD. Check out vendors at local markets or gift shops in Roseau or Portsmouth.
6. A bottle of Bois Bande, a traditional herbal tonic believed to have aphrodisiac properties, can be found for around $20 to $30 USD. It is sold in health food stores or souvenir shops throughout the island.
Please note that prices may vary depending on the location and retailer.
If you have 1 week
Dominica is a beautiful island located in the Caribbean, with exotic landscapes and breathtaking views. For a one week itinerary, I recommend you start your journey by visiting the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park offers an array of natural wonders, including the boiling lake, freshwater lakes, hot springs, and waterfalls. You can also explore the dense rainforest that houses many unique species of flora and fauna.
Next, you can head to the Emerald Pool, a majestic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The pool is a popular spot for swimming and taking in the scenic beauty of the island. Afterward, you can visit the Kalinago Territory, home to the indigenous Kalinago people who have lived on the island for centuries. Here you can learn about their culture, history, and way of life while enjoying the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Another must-see attraction on the island is the Champagne Reef, which is known for its unique underwater geothermal vents that create bubbles in the water, resembling a glass of champagne. You can go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
For a bit of relaxation, you can spend a day at one of the island's black sand beaches, such as Mero Beach or Roseau Beach. These beaches offer serene surroundings and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming or sunbathing. You can also indulge in local cuisine, including the national dish of Dominica, called "Callaloo" made of leafy vegetables, Okra, coconut milk, and more.
Lastly, I highly recommend taking a hike to the Boiling Lake, which is the world's second-largest hot spring. It is a challenging hike, but the reward is worth it as you'll witness the spectacular sight of steam rising from the lake's surface. These are just a few of the many things to experience in Dominica, providing a mix of adventure and relaxation, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty that make for an unforgettable travel itinerary.
If you have 2 weeks
Dominica is a beautiful country located in the Caribbean Sea. During your two-week itinerary, I recommend visiting some of the most breathtaking destinations on this island.
Firstly, I suggest visiting the Emerald Pool, a beautiful waterfall situated in Morne Trois Pitons National Park. This stunning natural attraction is surrounded by lush greenery and provides an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Next, you should explore Boiling Lake, another remarkable destination in the same national park. It is the largest boiling lake in the world and one of the most beautiful sights in Dominica. You can take a guided hike from the village of Laudat to reach this incredible attraction.
Thirdly, I highly recommend visiting Trafalgar Falls. These waterfalls are one of the most famous places in Dominica and provide a spectacular view for visitors. The twin waterfalls are surrounded by lush vegetation and offer an excellent opportunity to enjoy refreshing dips in the hot springs nearby.
Additionally, I think it would be great to visit the Kalinago Territory, a region inhabited by the indigenous people of Dominica. Here, you can gain insights into their unique customs and traditions, learn about their way of life, and observe their handicrafts.
Finally, I suggest exploring the Champagne Reef, a popular diving spot in Dominica. This reef is located near Scotts Head and is known for its effervescence caused by geothermal activity. Diving or snorkeling in these bubbling waters offers an extraordinary experience, unlike any other.
Overall, visiting these five destinations will offer an unforgettable two-week itinerary in Dominica. Whether you are interested in hiking, relaxing in nature, learning about the culture of Dominica, or exploring underwater wonders, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country.
Culture
Dominica is home to a wide range of people. Although it was historically occupied by several native tribes, the Arawaks (Tainos) and Carib (Kalinago) tribes occupied it at the time European settlers reached the island. "Massacre" is a name of a river dedicated to the mass murder of the native villagers by English settlers on St. Kitts -the survivors were forced into exile on Dominica. Both the French and British tried to claim the island and imported slaves from Africa for labour. The remaining Caribs now live on a 3700 acre territory on the east coast of the island. They elect their own chief. This mix of cultures has produced the current culture.
Music and dance are important facets of Dominica's culture. The annual independence celebrations display a variety of traditional song and dance. Since 1997, there have also been weeks of Creole festivals, such as "Creole in the Park" and the "World Creole Music Festival".
Dominica gained prominence on the international music stage when in 1973, Gordon Henderson founded the group Exile One and an original musical genre, which he coined "Cadence-lypso". This paved the way for modern Creole music. Other musical genres include "Jing ping" and "Cadence". Jing ping features the accordion and is native to the island. Dominica's music is a mélange of Haitian, Afro-Cuban, African and European traditions. Popular artists over the years include Chubby and the Midnight Groovers, Bells Combo, the Gaylords (Dominican band), WCK, and Triple Kay.
The 11th annual World Creole Music Festival was held in 2007, part of the island's celebration of independence from Great Britain on 3 November. A year-long reunion celebration began in January 2008, marking 30 years of independence.
Dominica is often seen as a society that is migrating from collectivism to that of individualism. The economy is a developing one that previously depended on agriculture. Signs of collectivism are evident in the small towns and villages which are spread across the island.
The novelist Jean Rhys was born and raised in Dominica. The island is obliquely depicted in her best-known book, Wide Sargasso Sea. Rhys's friend, the political activist and writer Phyllis Shand Allfrey, set her 1954 novel, The Orchid House, in Dominica.
Much of the Walt Disney film Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (the second in the series, released in 2006), was shot on location on Dominica (though in the film it was known as "Pelegosto", a fictional island), along with some shooting for the third film in the series, At World's End (2007).
Dominica's cuisine is similar to that of other Caribbean islands, particularly Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago. Like other Commonwealth Caribbean islands, Dominicans have developed a distinct twist to their cuisine. Breakfast is an important daily meal, typically including saltfish, dried and salted codfish, and "bakes" (fried dough). Saltfish and bakes are combined for a fast food snack that can be eaten throughout the day; vendors on Dominica's streets sell these snacks to passersby, together with fried chicken, fish and fruit and yogurt "smoothies". Other breakfast meals include cornmeal porridge, which is made with fine cornmeal or polenta, milk or condensed milk, and sugar to sweeten. Traditional British-influenced dishes, such as eggs and toast, are also popular, as are fried fish and plantains.
Common vegetables include plantains, tannias (a root vegetable), sweet potatoes, potatoes, rice and peas. Meat and poultry typically eaten include chicken, beef and fish. These are often prepared in stews with onions, carrots, garlic, ginger and herbs. The vegetables and meat are browned to create a rich dark sauce. Popular meals include rice and peas, brown stew chicken, stew beef, fried and stewed fish, and many different types of hearty fish broths and soups. These are filled with dumplings, carrots and ground provisions.
Cricket is a popular sport on the island, and Dominica competes in test cricket as part of the West Indies cricket team. In West Indies domestic first-class cricket, Dominica participates as part of the Windward Islands cricket team, although they are often considered a part of the Leeward Islands geographically. This is due to being part of the British Windward Islands colony from 1940 until independence; its cricket federation remains a part of the Windward Islands Cricket Board of Control.
On 24 October 2007, the 8,000-seat Windsor cricket stadium was completed with a donation of EC$33 million (US$17 million, €12 million) from the government of the People's Republic of China.
Netball, basketball, rugby, tennis and association football are gaining popularity as well.
International footballer Julian Wade, Dominica's all-time top goal scorer (as of 2021), currently plays for Brechin City F.C. in Scotland.
During the 2014 Winter Olympics, a husband and wife team of Gary di Silvestri and Angela Morrone di Silvestri spent US$175,000 to register as Dominican citizens and enter the 15 km men's and 10 km women's cross-country skiing events, respectively. Angela did not start her race, and Gary pulled out several hundred meters into his race. To date, they are Dominica's only Winter Olympic athletes.
Athlete Jérôme Romain won the bronze medal at the 1995 World Championships in Athletics triple jump competition. He also qualified for the finals at the 1996 Olympic Games; even though he had to pull out due to injury, his 12th position is the best performance of a Dominican ever at the Olympics.
Sprinter Olympian Chris Lloyd won the bronze medal at the 2007 Pan American Games over 400m.
Triple Jump Olympian Thea LaFond became the first athlete to ever win a medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Religion
61.4% of the population is Roman Catholic, though in recent years a number of Protestant churches have been established. About 10–12% of the population belongs to one of the Seventh-Day (Saturday) denominations, which includes Yahweh Congregation, Church of God (Seventh-Day), and the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
According to the Association of Religion Data Archives, in 2010 the World Christian Database reported that the largest non-Christian religious groups included: spiritualism followed by 2.6% of the population; Baháʼí followed by 1.7%; Agnosticism followed by 0.5%; Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam, each followed by 0.1%; and Chinese folk religion, Neoreligions, and Atheism each followed by non-negligible proportions (i.e., <0.1%) of the population. The second largest town on the island, Portsmouth, is home to Al-Ansaar Masjid, the first mosque to be built in Dominica. The mosque was constructed with the help of Muslim students from the since relocated Ross University School of Medicine.
Demographics
The vast majority of Dominicans are of African descent. There is a growing mixed population along with a small European origin minority (descendants of French and British colonists along with some people of Irish descent from indentured servants) and there are small numbers of Lebanese, Syrians and East Asians. Dominica is also the only Eastern Caribbean island that still has a population of pre-Columbian native Kalinago (previously called Caribs), who were exterminated or driven from neighbouring islands. there are more than 3,000 Kalinago remaining. They live in eight villages on the east coast of Dominica. This special Kalinago Territory (previously Carib Reserve) was granted by the British Crown in 1903.
The population growth rate of Dominica is very low, due primarily to emigration to other countries. In the early 21st century, emigrant numbers for the most popular countries are as follows: the United States (8,560), the United Kingdom (6,739), Canada (605), and France (394).
Dominica had a relatively large number of centenarians. In March 2007, there were 22 centenarians out of the island's 70,000 inhabitants —three times the average incidence of centenarianism in developed countries. The reasons for this were once the subject of a study that formerly had been undertaken at Ross University School of Medicine.
Dominica was partially integrated into the federal colony of the Leeward Islands in 1832. Later, in 1871, it became a full part of the Federation of the Leeward Islands. From the start it was a peculiar relationship for previously Dominica had played no part in the political or cultural traditions of the other more Anglophone islands of the federation. Now, as a Leeward Island, this much larger territory, with thousands of acres of forested unclaimed land, was open to the people of Montserrat and Antigua. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Rose's Company, which produced Rose's lime juice, saw demand for its product outgrow its ability to supply the product from Montserrat. Their response to the situation was to buy land on Dominica and encourage Montserrat farm labourers to relocate. As a result, there came to be two linguistic communities in Dominica, Wesley and Marigot.
In 1902, on 8 May, the Mount Pelée volcano on Martinique erupted destroying the city of Saint-Pierre. Refugees from Martinique arrived in boats to the southern villages of Dominica and some remained permanently on the island.
English is the official language of Dominica and is universally spoken and understood. In addition, Dominican Creole, an Antillean Creole based on French, is widely spoken. This is due to French migration to the island starting in 1690, a majority French Creole-speaking population that resided on the island, and its location between the two French-speaking departments of Martinique and Guadeloupe. Since 1979, Dominica has been a member of La Francophonie. Dominican Creole is particularly used among the older generation, which also speaks a patois language. Because of a decline in the use of Creole by the younger generation, initiatives have been set up in an effort to increase usage and promote this unique part of the nation's history and culture.
Along with Creole, a dialect known as Kokoy (or Cockoy) is spoken. It is a type of pidgin English which is a mix of Leeward Island English Creole and Dominican Creole, and is mainly spoken in the north-eastern villages of Marigot and Wesley, by the descendants of immigrants from Montserrat and Antigua. Over time there has been much intermarrying, but there are still traces of difference in origin. As a result of this mixture of languages and heritage, Dominica is a member of both the French-speaking Francophonie and the English-speaking Commonwealth of Nations.
Island Carib, also known as Igneri (Iñeri, Igñeri, Inyeri), was an Arawakan language historically spoken by the Island Caribs of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean. The Island Caribs lived throughout the southern Lesser Antilles such as Dominica, St Vincent and Trinidad, supposedly having conquered them from their previous inhabitants, the Igneri. Island Carib became extinct about 1920, but an offshoot survives as Garifuna, primarily in Central America.
61.4% of the population is Roman Catholic, though in recent years a number of Protestant churches have been established. About 10–12% of the population belongs to one of the Seventh-Day (Saturday) denominations, which includes Yahweh Congregation, Church of God (Seventh-Day), and the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
According to the Association of Religion Data Archives, in 2010 the World Christian Database reported that the largest non-Christian religious groups included: spiritualism followed by 2.6% of the population; Baháʼí followed by 1.7%; Agnosticism followed by 0.5%; Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam, each followed by 0.1%; and Chinese folk religion, Neoreligions, and Atheism each followed by non-negligible proportions (i.e., <0.1%) of the population. The second largest town on the island, Portsmouth, is home to Al-Ansaar Masjid, the first mosque to be built in Dominica. The mosque was constructed with the help of Muslim students from the since relocated Ross University School of Medicine.
School in Dominica is mandatory up to secondary school. After pre-school, students attend primary school for six or seven years, and are admitted into secondary school on the basis of a Common Entrance Exam. After five years the students take the General Certificate of Education (GCE), widely replaced by the current Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate administered by the Caribbean Examination Council (a 15-member confederation of the Caribbean community (CARICOM)). The more advanced version of this examination, CAPE, can be taken upon completion of two years of community college. The island has its own Dominica State College, formerly named Clifton Dupigny Community College. Some Dominicans attend universities in Cuba on scholarships offered by its government; others go to the University of the West Indies or to universities in the United Kingdom, the United States, or other countries.
Archbold Tropical Research and Education Center, a biological field station owned by Clemson University, is located at Springfield Estate between Canefield and Pont Cassé. In 2006 All Saints University School of Medicine opened in temporary facilities in Loubière, it was later located in Roseau, Dominica. A marine biology institute in Mahaut, the Institute for Tropical Marine Ecology, closed in 2009.
Ross University School of Medicine was located at Portsmouth. Ross had been operating in Dominica since the 1980s. There used to be a thousand medical students arriving annually from the United States and Canada who studied at Ross University, but the campus was permanently relocated to Barbados at the beginning of the 2019 Spring semester due to extensive hurricane damage suffered at the Dominican campus.
The Dominica Library and Information Service serves an integral role in the education of the citizens of the country. The Dominica Library and Information Service (DLIS) is the island's main public sector responsible for library services, information service, and management. Today, it provides service for the population of Dominica through three components, public library services, documentation and research services, and archival services. Under the management of the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, the responsibilities of the institution were established in 1843 with the opening of reading rooms, or the first public library in Dominica, Victoria Memorial. Dominica Library and Information Service serves an integral role in the education of the citizens of the country. The creation of a public library in Dominica did not come easily though the impetus was a noble one that would help "the coloured people... [improve] their lot as they moved along the path to complete freedom...” (Boromé, 203). The Dominican library began as a reading room that would evolve into a free and public library that wasn't fully free: patrons were required to pay a subscription fee. Surviving religious and political discord, the great depression, and two world wars, the library finally came under the care of the government where funds were set aside for its upkeep. Ironically, the early stages of the library's history were dedicated to remove the "uncouth", and "barbarous patois", which today is being preserved. However, it did achieve its goal of "diminishing the island’s very high percentage of illiteracy" (pg. 225). However, the historical library was demolished in the wake of hurricane Maria in 2018, and slated to be rebuilt with a more modern outlook.
Cities:
