Dominica
CuriousOyster
Steve & Trish Brown
Thu 7 May 2009 22:15
Many people believe Dominica to be one of the poorest islands in the
Windward/Leeward Caribbean chain and at first sight it is difficult to argue
against this. The island is probably the least developed, has only basic
infrastructure and almost no tourist development when compared with the
other islands. However, with 8 volcanoes, 365 rivers and a dense covering of
rainforest the island is a fascinating place to explore.
The Dominicans themselves are relaxed and friendly and compare favourably
with some of the other, ex British governed islands. The rich volcanic soil
supports a wide range of fruit, vegetables and nuts and wherever you look
there some are in-season and ready for picking.
Having had problems with "boat boys" in the past pestering yachts and
potentially driving away a source of tourist revenues, the "boat boys"
themselves grabbed the initiative to create a professional group, created
training programs, self policed the anchorages and provided an all round
service to yachts in both Portsmouth and Roseau. They were also instrumental
for creating the National Park areas to protect the landscape and wildlife
and the Indian River trip together with the many inland excursions are great
value with many of the more experienced guides very knowledgeable on all
aspects of the plant, animal, birdlife and the geological history of the
island.
Our original intention had been to spend at least a week here but after 2
months Tricia's prolapsed disc in her back is showing no signs of
improvement, due we believe to the constant movement of living aboard the
boat either at anchor or at sea. Therefore reluctantly, we will head south
faster than intended and try to find somewhere on land in Grenada where she
can rest and recover before we head off to South America.
With luck we will be back this way in a few years and will make time to
revisit this beautiful and friendly island.
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