Dominica: the Caribbean’s untouched country is rich in culture, nature and comfort
Nestled between Martinique and Guadeloupe, Dominica has always been a top eco-traveler destination. Nicknamed “the nature island,” Dominica is one of the last Caribbean islands committed to staying “untouched.” With its natural landscape of lush rainforest, healthy coral reefs, and black sand beaches, Dominica is not your average resort retreat.
If you’d like to swap a cocktail on the beach for a hike over a slumbering volcano, Dominica may be the place for you.
Just 1,400 miles south of Miami, traveling to Dominica is standard. Travel & Leisure mentioned that in December 2021, American Airlines began to offer multiple direct flights weekly from Miami International Airport (MIA) to the island.
Once you’ve arrived on the island, take your pick of natural wonders to visit. Dominica is home to over 365 rivers. The Indian River is the waterway to access the forest used as the backdrop for the witch’s house featured in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ films. The 125-mile national nature trail will keep you busy for the day, or take a drive to the top of Scotts Head. The top view leaves travelers in awe; the outlet mentions they can see the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other. Scotts Head is a popular place for free diving, snorkeling, and scuba diving. If high elevations aren’t for you, another great location is Champagne Beach.
If you insist on spa treatments during your vacation, Wotten Waven is the place for you. According to Travel & Leisure, due to the island’s volcanic origins, Wotten Waven provides an “open-air thermal spa surrounded by verdant forest and home to two heated sulfur pools, a mud pool, individual sulfur baths, waterfalls and more.” Close by is Boiling Lake, the world’s second-largest hot spring.
The heritage of Dominica and its residents is just as alluring as its natural landscape. Dominica’s Creole culture is “a mixture of West African roots, indigenous Kalinago heritage, and French and British influences.”
The “melting pot” influence is evident in the island’s music, food, fashion and art. The country hosts Mas Dominik, its own two-day carnival, in February. Celebrating the beginning of the lent season, the carnival shares the traditional carnival dress of elaborate costumes and endless street parties.
After you have had your fill of nature and culture you can rest in one of the island’s newest resorts. The InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, is slated to open in April. Travel Weekly says the expansive location will include “151 guestrooms, four outdoor pools, an on-site spa, beach access, and a 8,500 square foot indoor/outdoor meeting space.”
Martie Bowser is a journalist and public relations professional in Charlotte, NC. She enjoys amplifying the voices of POC and women that fill a void within their community. Her bylines include “person of interest” interviews, small business highlights, pop culture commentary, entertainment features, and everything Beyonce.
This story was originally published February 21, 2023 at 11:55 AM.