Dominica Bed and Breakfast, Cheap Hotel and Guest House Accommodation

Dominica, known as the Nature Island of the Caribbean, is a lush, mountainous island located between Guadeloupe and Martinique in the Lesser Antilles. Dominica’s history is rich with indigenous and colonial influences. It was originally inhabited by the Kalinago people, who fiercely resisted European colonization. The French and British contested control over the island, with the British eventually gaining dominance in 1763. Dominica gained its independence in 1978, but the island’s cultural heritage remains a blend of African, French, and British influences.

Roseau, the capital city of Dominica, is a vibrant mix of colonial architecture, colorful markets, and historic landmarks. The Old Market in Roseau, where enslaved people were once traded, is now a hub for local arts and crafts. Portsmouth, the second-largest city, is located on the island's northwestern coast and offers beautiful beaches, historical sites like Fort Shirley, and access to the Cabrits National Park.

For visitors seeking quaint and unusual towns, visit Calibishie, a charming fishing village on the island’s northeast coast. Here, red cliffs and tropical forests meet serene beaches. Another unique spot is Soufriere, located in the southwest, known for its hot springs and picturesque church. Scotts Head, at the southern tip of the island, offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meeting at the headland.

Dominica is one island, but the nearby islet of Cabrits offers a unique experience. Part of the Cabrits National Park, it is home to the historic ruins of Fort Shirley and surrounded by mangroves and coral reefs, making it ideal for hiking and snorkeling. Other small islands and coastal areas are popular for diving and nature exploration.

Fun things to do in Dominica revolve around its natural beauty. Hiking to the Boiling Lake, the second-largest hot lake in the world, is a must-do for adventurers. For something more relaxing, take a dip in the natural hot springs at Wotten Waven or visit the Emerald Pool, a gorgeous waterfall set in the rainforest. Whale watching is another popular activity, as Dominica is one of the few places in the Caribbean where sperm whales reside year-round.

When it comes to dining, Dominica offers a mix of Creole and traditional Caribbean cuisine. For a taste of authentic local food, visit “The Champs” in Picard, Portsmouth, where the menu features fresh seafood and island-inspired dishes. Another popular spot is the “Palisades Restaurant” at the Fort Young Hotel, offering fine dining with an ocean view. For local flavors, try the fish broth, crab callaloo, and mountain chicken (a type of frog), which is a delicacy.

Tourist seaside towns like Portsmouth and Calibishie offer great beach experiences. In Portsmouth, Purple Turtle Beach is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, offering calm waters and beachfront bars. Calibishie is known for its secluded, scenic beaches, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Accommodation options in Dominica range from eco-lodges to luxurious hotels. Famous places to stay include the luxurious “Secret Bay,” an eco-luxury resort with private villas offering breathtaking ocean views. For those looking for something more rustic and close to nature, “Jungle Bay” offers eco-friendly cottages amidst the island's rich rainforest. Guesthouses like “Calibishie Cove” provide an intimate and affordable experience with stunning ocean views.

Dominica is filled with incredible attractions. The Trafalgar Falls, twin waterfalls set against a backdrop of lush rainforest, are a must-see, along with the Indian River, where you can take a boat ride through mangroves teeming with wildlife. For history buffs, Fort Shirley in Cabrits National Park is a well-preserved 18th-century British fort that offers both a glimpse into the island's colonial past and panoramic views.

Carnival in Dominica is a vibrant celebration that happens in February or March. Known as Mas Domnik, it is a lively festival featuring parades, calypso music, and traditional costumes. Another major festival is the World Creole Music Festival, held in October, which draws musicians from across the Caribbean and beyond to celebrate Creole culture through music and dance.

Local food in Dominica is a blend of Creole and Caribbean flavors. Staples include plantains, dasheen, and yams, while fish and seafood feature heavily in the cuisine. Popular dishes include Callaloo Soup, which is made from taro leaves, and bakes with saltfish. Cassava bread is a traditional staple, and fresh fruit such as guava, passionfruit, and mangoes are available year-round.

Famous people from Dominica include the late Prime Minister Rosie Douglas, known for his political activism and leadership. Internationally renowned calypso singer Ophelia Marie is also from Dominica, along with author Jean Rhys, who was born on the island and is famous for her novel “Wide Sargasso Sea.”

Dominica’s attractions are centered around nature and culture. Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers some of the island’s most dramatic landscapes, including volcanic peaks, hot springs, and the famous Boiling Lake. The island’s black sand beaches, such as those at Mero and Rosalie Bay, are unusual and striking in contrast to the Caribbean’s typical white-sand shores.

Local music in Dominica includes genres like Cadence-lypso, a fusion of Haitian Creole music with calypso, and Bouyon, a fast-paced, energetic music genre born on the island in the 1980s. Steelpan and reggae are also popular, creating a lively music scene, especially during festivals.

Dominica is home to an abundance of nature sites. The Syndicate Nature Trail is perfect for birdwatchers and hikers looking to spot the island’s rare parrots, the Sisserou and the Jaco. The island’s numerous waterfalls, such as Victoria Falls and Middleham Falls, offer refreshing spots to hike to and enjoy.

Important places to visit include the Kalinago Territory, where visitors can learn about the island’s indigenous people and their way of life. The island is one of the few places in the Caribbean where the Kalinago community still resides, and visitors can explore their villages and craft markets.

For unusual things to see, don’t miss the Champagne Reef, where volcanic activity causes bubbles to rise from the ocean floor, creating a unique underwater experience for divers and snorkelers. Another curious sight is the Red Rocks at Pointe Baptiste, a striking geological formation of red rock cliffs that stand out against the green landscape and blue waters.