Nature Isle Dominica


			For all my Dominican people, at home and abroad, wherever you may be, just want to send a shout out to you!! This page is dedicated to you, for only we know the true beauty that this island possesses! Never forget where you are from, and always be proud of who you are! Big up to all my Caribbean posse!! Dominica, also know as the "Nature Isle of the Caribbean", is an exotic island and just the vacation spot for you if you are wild about nature. Situated between the twin French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, Dominica is the largest and highest of the windward islands. It is approximately 29 miles long by 16 miles wide, and covers an area of approximately 288 sq. miles(746 sq. km). The highest point is Morne Diablotin, which is 4,747 ft. above sea level. Recognized as one of the Caribbean islands with the most fresh-water rivers, Dominica is also know as "The Land of 365 Rivers", where you have a river for each day. Wether or not this is true(as I have never gotten the opportunity to check for myself), it is as close as possible to the truth. Majestic water falls are one of the highlights of Dominica, along with the lush green scenery. Natural Beauty: The mountains abound with rivers swiftly flowing to the sea, providing wonderful fresh-water bathing, to be found no where else in the Caribbean. The profusion of tropical fruits and vegetables, dense tropical forests, deeep valleys, fast-flowing rivers and waterfalls, small geysers and hot springs,and wildlife, attract botanists, ornithologists, nature-lovers, hikers, and mountain climbers. The surrounding sea provides a fascinating underwater world for exploration br scuba divers. History: Waitikibuli(the Carib name of the island), was the last settlement of the Carib indians (who gave the Caribbean its name), and decendants still live in a reseved part of the island known as The Carib Reserve(north-eastern part of the island). The first European to see it was Christopher Columbus in 1493. The island changed hands between the British and the French several times until it finally became British possesion in 1805. Dominica gained independence in 1978. The official language of Dominica is English, but "patois" is also widely spoken, particularly by the elders. If you can speak French, you should be able to understand and be understood yourself to the islanders who don't speak English very well. English is the business language, so don't fret if you have to go to the bank or to the book store; they will speak perfectly to you! The island's culture exibits strong French influence. Climate: Average temperatures vary between 24C and 29C all year round, and the main rainy season is between June and October. Beaches: Most of the best beaches are on the west and north coast of the island, ranging from black sand(Purple Turtle in PorthsMouth) to honey-coloured sand(CastaWays is great!). The east coast is dangerous because of it high winds and rocky coast and undertows, and bathing in rivers before or after heavy rainfalls is not advisable due to dangers of flash floods. The people of Dominica also offer themselves in service, as you will notice if you go down to the famous market, situated in the country's capital, Roseau. Here, there will offer you help, and at the market you will see proof of the islands rich volcanic soil in the foods sold; the "dasheen", "fig"(green bananas, also one of the main exports of Dominica), "yam", "tanya", and all the others available.		Click photos for larger version! Sari Sari WaterFall Sari Sari Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Dominica, situated near the east-coast village of La Plaine. Penrise Falls This is one the small unknown waterfalls in the center of the island, which offers a great swimming spot! Trafalgar Falls Shown the larger of the two falls that makes up the Trafalgar Falls, this is one of the most famous in Dominica. Victoria Falls Another spectacular fall on the east coast of Dominica. The Boiling Lake One of Dominica's natural wonders, this lake is filled with boiling water; fe real!!