LR Travel Report
Eco-Divine Dominica Authentic and Unspoiled Caribbean
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f you’re seeking massive resorts with sprawling water circuits, casinos, upscale shopping malls, scintillating nightlife and trendy dining emporiums... then Dominica is definitely not for you. But if you’re seeking an oasis of nature and rejuvenation, then this island will definitely become your ideal haven. Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is as authentic old and natural Caribbean as it gets. It’s also virtually untouched by tourism save a few small resorts and a little cruise ship jetty town. One reason for that is because of its geological makeup – it’s mountainous beyond belief. The only flat place on this entire island is a short strip where only small planes can land. Other than that, its one giant rollercoaster of climbing roads and steep valleys; you can virtually get dizzy just driving around there. But it has primal nature so refreshing that you can’t help but leave feeling healthier just by being around it. In fact, active living and healthy lifestyle is so prevalent there that Dominica boasts the highest incidence of centenarians on the planet! And locals swear by
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natural herbs, roots and teas to soothe any and every ailment. It’s also a hiker’s paradise, with the recently completed Waitukubuli National Trail – the Caribbean’s first long distance hiking trail – that covers over 115 miles of incredible biodiversity. But it’s not just the terrestrial treasures that attract. Dominica is also the whale watching capital of the Caribbean since four species migrate there and one stays all year round. And the waters also have unique properties; there are natural hot sulphur springs, reefs where you can snorkel among warm volcanic gas bubbles, and even a boiling lake! The surrounding seas are also pristine, making for excellent snorkeling and diving. Places to stay include a cool restored fortress called the Fort Hotel, a beautiful botanical garden retreat on a mountain waterfall called Papillote, a charming family-run resort called the Sunset Bay Club – the island’s only all-inclusive resort option – and Rosalie Bay Resort, a unique eco-escape famous for its black sand beach. Need to recharge and refresh? Visit www.discoverdominica.com. SUSAN CAMPBELL