Overview
The Caribbean island of Dominica is a blend of formidable volcanoes, bubbling mountain rivers, dense forests, tranquil lakes and steaming geysers. It is a diverse and beautiful country that could be a magnet for tourists due to its natural conditions and its warm and hospitable people. Despite being one of the poorest countries in the region, Dominica has a relatively low crime rate. Since it doesn’t offer a vibrant nightlife and is not directly accessible by plane, the big tourist storms have not happened so far, but if you like hiking in the tropical rainforest and watching bubbling lakes. See other countries in North America on militarynous.
Getting there
Arriving by plane
There are no direct connections to Dominica from Europe. Most flight connections from Europe are via Antigua, Barbados, Sint Maarten, Guadeloupe or Puerto Rico with a subsequent regional flight to Dominica. From Frankfurt/M. flies Condor (DE) via Antigua. Connections to Dominica from France are via Pointe-à-Pitre (PTP) in Guadeloupe; from Paris Orly with Air France (AF), Air Caraibes (TX) and Corsair (SS) and from Paris Charles de Gaulle with Level (IB) and XL Airways (SE). Air Antilles (3S) flies non-stop to Dominica from Pointe-à-Pitre. Air France (AF) and the national airlines offer feeder flights from Germany, Austria and Switzerland to Paris.
Departure fee
Approx. €18.50 (US$21); payable on departure. Excluded are children under the age of 12 and transit travelers who continue their journey on the day of their arrival.
Arrival by car
Tolls: Dominica has no toll roads. Documentation: Drivers of a motor vehicle must obtain a local driver’s license, which can be obtained at the airport or from the car rental company on presentation of the national driver’s license.
Arrival by ship
Cruise ships call at the Bayfront in Roseau, the deep water port of Woodbridge Bay (3 miles from Roseau) or Cabrits in Portsmouth. Ferries connect Dominica to the surrounding islands.
Cruise ships
As part of their Caribbean cruises, shipping companies such as AIDA, MSC, Seabourn, Silversea and Oceania Cruises call at Dominica.
Ferry provider
Express des Iles is a scheduled ferry (300 seat catamaran) that connects Dominica with Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Lucia and Les Saintes.
Transportation
Traveling by car/bus
The island has a well-developed road network of around 800 km. Tolls: Dominica has no toll roads.
Right-hand traffic/left-hand traffic
Left
Condition of the roads
About half of the entire road network is paved. Potholes are often to be expected along the coast.
Car rental
Rental cars are available. The driver must be at least 25 years old, have held their national driving license for at least 2 years and obtain a local driving license (see Documentation section).
Taxi
Taxis are mainly found in Roseau, at the airport and in front of larger hotels. To easily identify taxis, their number plates contain the letters “HA” or “H”.
Bicycle
Bicycles and mopeds can be rented in Roseau, among other places. Guided bike tours are also offered.
Coach
Almost all places on the island can be reached by private bus companies.
Regulations
Traffic regulations: – Left-hand traffic. Speed limits: – urban: 32 km/h (20 miles/h); – out of town: no restrictions (however, careful driving is recommended because of the many curves and often potholes).
Documentation
Carrying a local driving license is mandatory; this can be purchased at the airport or from car rental companies on presentation of your national driver’s license (fee: approx. €10.50 or US$12).
