The last Caribbean island to be colonized due to the fierce resistance from the native Caribs is often confused with the nation of the Dominican Republic. Nevertheless Dominica is the most mountainous island of the Lesser Antilles offering tropical lushness and gorgeous views. Save a week or more from your calendar, and find this unspoiled paradise between Guadeloupe and Martinique.
Morne Trois Pitons National Park
Forest, Park
Filled with mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, freshwater lakes, thick jungle and a rich biodiversity, there is no wonder that Morne Trois Pitons National Parkis listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Named after its highest mountain, it is a stunning blend of volcanic features and luxuriant tropical forest waiting to be discovered if you follow one of the hiking trails.
Being one of the most popular attractions in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, this is the second largest hot spring in the world after Frying Pan in New Zealand, at a temperature ranging from 180 to 197 degrees Fahrenheit along its edges. Almost continuously veiled in clouds of vapor and filled with bubbling grayish water, Boiling Lake lies at the end of a strenuous, three-hour trail which is certainly worth the physical pain.
A large, well-known, misty waterfall on the east coast is one of the most impressive and photogenic waterfalls on the island. Victoria Waterfall flows into the White River which is sourced from the Boiling Lake and is perfect for an exciting hike thanks to the traversing trail paths, crossing rivers and climbing rocks. Get a guide to help you navigate through the rough terrain and enjoy some Caribbean culinary delights at one of the nearby top-notch restaurants.
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Framed by lush peaks, Dominica’s capital and main seaport is colorful and vibrant with a cool Rastafarian vibe. Explore Roseau on foot and wander through the narrow streets to view the impressive buildings, visit the Old Market to purchase some fresh fruits, flowers and souvenirs and discover some of the numerous historic attractions it hosts.
A picturesque fishing village on the southwest coast overlooking Soufrière Bay, Scott’s Head is the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Head to the top of the hill for some stunning panoramic views, attend the annual village feast during the summer months or snorkel around for the magnificent marine scenery.
One of Dominica’s most notable dive and snorkel sites, a hot tub in the middle of the ocean, lies in a marine reserve off the southwest coast. Champagne Reef is where you are able to glimpse trumpet fish or tiny sea horses among thousands of bubbles emerging from beneath the rocks due to the geothermal activity which will make you feel like you’re swimming in a giant glass of champagne.
Maria Menegaki was born in Crete in 1991 and is an MA student of Social and Historical Anthropology at the University of the Aegean. She holds a BA in Geography and is constantly looking for ways to combine her academic interests with her passion for travelling and exploring. When she is not planning her next trip, she enjoys spending time with her cats, reading poetry or treehugging. She loves music and cinema and is determined never to grow up.
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