DOMINICA

Dominica, officially known as the Commonwealth of Dominica lies midway in the archipelago of islands comprising the Eastern Caribbean. It is located between the French islands of Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south. Dominica comprises 290 square miles (751 km2) and has 91 miles (148 km) of coastline. The capital city Roseau is situated on the west coast of the island along the tranquil waters of the Caribbean Sea. Dominica was formerly a British colony and gained independence from Britain on the 3rd November 1978. Dominica is dubbed the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean” as it epitomizes an unspoiled island paradise. It boasts majestic mountain peaks reaching to 4,747 feet (1,447m) flanked by untouched lush green rainforests supporting diverse flora and fauna. The Sisserou Parrot is endemic to Dominica and is the national bird.

The island has 365 rivers as well as numerous waterfalls and lakes. The Boiling Lake is the second largest hot spring in the world. UNESCO has designated the Trois Piton National Park as a World Heritage Site. The Carib Indians were the indigenous inhabitants of Dominica and 3,700 acres have been legally designated as a Carib Territory. This Reserve is home to approximately 3,000 Carib Indian descendants and the land is held in communal ownership. There is a local system of Government within the Territory, which is headed by a Carib Chief. The Caribs are well known for their art and craft products