Jurassic Park Minus Raptors- Dominica
April 24, 2014
Roseau, Dominica
Dominica is a sun drenched jewel between Martinique and Guadeloupe. Through the years, it has risen to the top of tourism’s A-list of island paradise. This nature island boasts 290 square miles of untamed rain forest that wraps around slumbering volcanoes, bubbling hot springs, and plentiful sea life. It is like Jurassic Park without the raptors! If you are looking for a connection to nature, you will find it here. The island has no mega resorts, swanky chain hotels and mass tourism. It is unspoiled and lovely. That is why the producers selected Dominica as a backdrop for two sequels of Pirates of the Caribbean movie series.
The country has survived with a predominantly agricultural-based economy that includes bananas. Since it cannot compete with other Caribbean countries when it comes to beaches, it concentrated on its tropical interior. Lately, Dominica has become most notable for Eco-tourism, which remains strong. It attracts a stream of naturalists who flock to the island to see 172 types of birds, 12 major waterfalls and peaks that rise to 5,000 feet. Whale-watchers also come in hordes to explore the waters that plunge to nearly 6,000 feet right off the coastline, providing an ideal base for seven types of whales that can be seen nearly year-round, including a resident population of sperm whales.
Our ship docked at Roseau Cruise Ship terminal, a pleasantly ramshackle capital where streets are lined with rickety wooden houses with balconies. Right across from the pier, is the closest place for snacks, local arts and crafts, and WiFi. A couple of blocks away, the Old Market ranks as one of the best in the Caribbean and the old market square was once the the site of slave auctions and punishment. Across the street the fruit and vegetable stalls provide a nice photo opp. Behind the market is the Victorian-era Roseau cathedral, which was constructed from volcanic rock and took more than 100 years to build.
At the outset, our taxi drove the coastline on roads hacked out of the mountainside, with jagged edges plunging to the ocean. Meanwhile, bread fruit, mango trees, bamboo and ginger root cascade down to the sea. The jungle was vast and we could see rivers, streams and waterfalls. At one stop, where we could take pictures of Trafalgar falls, we were mobbed by vendors and engulfed with every kind of sale-able objects, including cold beer. After I handed chocolates to a few kids, I created a wonderful party like atmosphere with everybody lining up for more sweets, and posing for photographs.
From there we went to the steaming pot holes. A flight of steps lead down to a ledge in a corner to give access to viewing the steam vents. It looked small and indistinct for its supposed status as a tourist attraction. Nearby was a restaurant cum spa where one could also view the steaming pot holes. We spent the next several hours driving around the island enjoying the natural sights of the dense lush vegetation. With the rich bio-diversity of its surroundings, Dominica offers nature and tranquility at its best!
Comments
Finally, we caught up with your journey diary. We are happy to be home again. Like Dorothy said, " No place like home" ! Thank you. From Kim L., on May 5, 2014 at 06:05 p.m
I am absolutely enjoying this journey with you guys, thanks for having me along. When will I see you´ll again? From Freedom, on May 6, 2014 at 02:39 a.m
Perhaps next year. We were in Puntarenas yesterday, didn't stop in Puerto Limon this time. From Charlotte & Bert, on May 6, 2014 at 07:21p.m
Just recently went on a 10 day Southern Caribbean cruise with NCL. Dominca was one of my favorite stops. From Ellie Gilmer, on May 13, 2014 at 03:50 a.m.