D ominica attaches importance to a conservation. The ecological planning includes that the hotels are rather small and harmonize with their surroundings. Big hotel- monsters like Sandals with whirlpool, sauna (both very usefull in the Caribbean!), tenniscourts and golf or “all inclusiv” concrete blocks are not available (thank God...). There are beautifull hotels with charme and good standard instead. However, choosing the hotel, you should keep in mind what you are planning to do on Dominica (see accomodation.
The friendliness of Dominica´s people is remarkable. They are interested in you like you are interested in them, without any ulterior motives (to buy or to sell). The conversation is very pleasant and, by the way, it is a good chance to get some useful hints!
 If you are planning to rent a car on Dominica, you should know two things: they drive on the left and it is recommended that you take a 4WD. A normal car would do as well, but the roads on the island have many potholes which you can ignore in a 4WD. In addition there are some interesting places which can only be reached with a 4WD (you don`t even have to be Michael Schumacher for that).
Nearly all the beaches are pebble beaches, therefore surfing  or bathing shoes are useful here.
All places of interest (Cabrits National Park, Indian River, Emerald Pool, Trafalgar Falls, etc) are under the management of the National Forest Reserve, which is responsible for the preservation of the nature. Therefore you need to get a sightseeing ticket which is not expensive (appx $1-$2 pP) and are for a good cause. You can buy them at the entrance one-day-ticket or a week-ticket.
The official language is english. Many people also speak Creole, Patois or Karina (the language of the Caribs).
The water is drinkable. However you should avoid drinking water from the mineral springs.

17.02.2007