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26
miles long, 19 miles wide. Dominica above water is an island
of mountains, rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. It has to be
the most beautiful and different of all the Caribbean islands.
It is incredibly lush with bananas, oranges, grapefruit
and other fruits  hanging
from heavily loaded limbs and just waiting to be picked.
Underwater Dominica is the "Adventure Dive Destination"
with walls, drop offs, pinnacles, underwater hot springs
and excellent visibility.
Dominica
is characterized by very rugged and steep terrain. The northern
half is dominated by the cone of its highest mountain, Morne
Diablotin (4,747 ft), only five miles from the coast. Four
of Dominica's mountains rise over 4,000 feet. A chain of
seven other mountains extends from the island's center to
the south. The topography is also characterized by a large
number of ridges and deep, narrow river valleys. Flatter
areas restricted to the coastal areas of the northeast and
center of the island.
Dominica diving is exciting. Not only will you find an abundance
of coral reefs but you will find them entwined among a volcanic
understructure. This combination offers divers a topography
consisting of caves, tunnels, arches, canyons, and pinnacles
unmatched elsewhere in the Caribbean. Adorning the reefs
are large tube, vase, and barrel sponges, as well as an
abundance of colorful anemones. Looking for critters? You
will find marine life here that is commonplace, which are
considered to be a rarity throughout much of the Caribbean.
Sea horses, frog fish, flying gurnards and a profusion of
other tropicals will fill your camera lens. Dominica is
also know for it's population of whales. Several species
frequent the area including the resident pod of sperm whales.
Dominica
Resorts & Packages
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Dominica
Travel Information and Tips
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Getting
there:
At this time there are no nonstop flights to Dominica.
Connections with local carriers are readily available
from nearby island gateways such as Puerto Rico, Antigua,
Barbados, and some others. American Airlines and Caribbean
star to name a few service these gateways. In addition,
Air Jamaica offers non-stop service from JFK to Antigua
with connecting service on Caribbean Star to Dominica.
Getting
Around:
The best way to get around Dominica is walking, bus
or by organized tour. Dominica is such a rich and
beautiful island. Unfortunately for drivers, roads
are narrow with sharp curves and switch backs. Locals
familiar with the roads will dive very fast on the
inland roads making renting a car a nerve racking
proposition.
Language
and Culture:
English is the official language. Creole (French patois)
is widely spoken also.
Airport
and Taxes:
The departure tax is $20.00 US for people by air,
and children under 12 are exempt from this tax.
Entry
Requirements:
A valid passport and return ticket are required.
Climate:
Average daytime temperatures range from 75-85 degrees,
with cooler temperatures in the mountains. Dry season
is from January to April. Rainy season is from July
to October.
Currency/Credit
Cards:
Local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, U.S.
dollars are accepted at most businesses, where the
rate of exchange is EC$2.60. You are advised to exchange
your currency at banks, where you will get the most
favorable exchange rate.
Time:
Dominica is on Atlantic Standard time zone, one hour
ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
Electricity:
220/240 volts. A transformer is required for all appliances.
Outlets are three-prong European-style. Adapters may
be needed.
TIPS:
Tour, Tour Tour. Dominica was left untouched for years
and as a result is the most pristine of all Caribbean
islands. Take in several tours, visit the only remaining
Caribe Indian village in the Caribbean, whale watching
and/or visit the only “boiling” lake in the Caribbean.
Finally, do take advantage of the shore diving.
Services
Car
Rentals
Bonus Rentals
(767) 448 2650
Budget
(767) 449 2080
Silver Lining Car Rental
(767) 445-3802
Marinas
Anchorage Hotel & Dive Center
Portsmouth Beach Hotel
Prince Rupert Bay |
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