Kayaking and Snorkeling in Dominica

Dominica can be described in a few words as follows: Lush mountainous interior of rainforest, waterfalls, lakes, hot springs and more than 200 rivers cascading over steep cliffs. While Dominica is not like the rest of the Caribbean islands in terms their white sandy beaches, it has its own attractions. For the records, Dominica has black sand wherever a little beach simulacre can be spotted. It is safer to say It has no beach.

Here is what you need to know if you want to head down to Dominica:
1. The French and British influences are strong there. But when you look at the names of the streets, the names of the monuments and the regions, you will realize that French dominates. The people can converse in English, French and Creole. In fact, they even have a Creole Day. Just like most other Caribbean islands, there is a harmonious fusion of the British, French and West Indian traditions as verified in the cuisine, the literature and countless other domains of Dominican life.
2. Out of all other places, I had the privilege to work with a Dominican student who was attending a seminar in Oklahoma in 1995. We became friends. She told me about the history of the Carib Indian population on her island nation. Dominica has the largest Carib Indian population out of all islands. She also told me about her own story and the survival story of her people. They represent only 4% of the population.
3. Roseau is the capital of Dominica. It seats the government that runs the affairs pertaining to Agriculture (banana and coconuts), politics and tourism.
4. Most visitors need a passport. But US and Canada citizens can only show proof of their respective countries' citizenship. Dominica's nearest neighbors are Martinique and Guadeloupe. Its fartherst neighbors are Venezuela in the northeast and Puerto Rico in the southeast.
5. Dominicans know how to have fun too. Reggae, Zouk and Calypso reign there. Don't worry. Before you leave the island, you will be able to make a few steps. Roseau is the place to be for the night clubs. While you are there, visit the Old market, Dominica museum, catholic cathedral and the botanical gardens. You may find hotels of luxury there. But you will good lodging.