 Where We Are
Dominica is located at 61W, 15N in the Northern Windward Island chain. it is 290 square miles in size and has a population of 71,000. It is in the Atlantic Time Zone which is UTC - 4. The climate varies according to altitude but daytime temperatures average 75 to 85F. The capital is Roseau and the other regional town Portsmouth, is located in the north. English is the main language but creole is also widely spoken. Dominica was originally inhabited by the Carib and Arawak Indians and is still home to over 3000 Caribs, descendants of the original inhabitants, who live in the north-east of the island. The first Europeans to sight Dominica were led by Christopher Columbus. They gave the island its name. |
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| The island changed ownership many times between the French and British, but in 1748 they agreed that the island should remain neutral and be left to its original inhabitants. In 1763, the Treaty of Paris assigned the island to the British, but the French broke the treaty by trying to recapture Dominica in 1795. In their last attempt on 1805, Roseau was burnt. the French finally pulled out paying a ransom of 8000.00 British pounds. The island then remained a British colony until 1967 when it became a self-governing Associated State. Dominica gained full independence with republican status within the British Commonwealth on November 3rd 1978. The formal name of the island is The Commonwealth of Dominica. Readily available bus and taxi services make all parts of the island easily accessible. The minibuses, taxis and hired vehicles all carry an H registration. Not many taxis operate after 1800, so it is always best to prearrange any evening excursions. The primary location for most resorts is the capital Roseau and the Portmouth area on the northwest coast. The water is safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available in shops and hotels. Island hospitals include:
The electricity supply is 220 and 240 volts.
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, which is tied to the US Dollar. The exchange rate is US$1.00 = EC$2.70. US and Canadian citizens require proof of citizenship and a photo ID. French nationals who present a Carte Indentite may visit for up to two weeks. All visitors are requested to present a return or onward ticket. Personal or household items which have been in use for 3 years or more are allowed into Dominica duty free. Up to 40 ounces of spirits or wine, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars are also allowed. There is restriction on the amount of money that a visitor may bring into Dominica. |
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Most religious denominations are represented in Dominica including Roman Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal, Baptist, and Seventh Day Adventist. There is a good representation of each faith in every town and village of the island. Many offer nightly prayer meetings or services.