Dominica
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Dominica is part of the Windward Islands. The Windwards are made up of four main islands: Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. These islands are not considered to be the heavy tourist attractions, as compared to their Caribbean neighbors, but this is a plus, as they are far enough off the beaten path to afford the adventurous traveler the pristine natural beauty this region has to offer.

Dominica has been inhabited for over 5,000 years, with various native tribes calling the island home over the millennia. The original settlers, the Ortoroid people, came, went and were replaced by the Igneri in about 400 AD. They lived here peacefully for the next thousand years, until the aggressive Carib tribe made their way up from South America and took over the island in 1400. Christopher Columbus was the first European to find the island, and he named it Dominica because he arrived here on a Sunday, November 3rd, 1493. As a result, the 3rd of November remains a national holiday here.

Dominica offers some of the most unique and breathtaking scenery in the world. The island only covers 290 square miles, measuring 29 miles from north to south and 16 miles from east to west. But the amount of scenery crammed on to this tiny island paradise is enough to take up the better part of a year, if only you had the time. Volcanic fissures form a perennially boiling lake, the second largest such lake in the world. Rare breeds of bird, including Jacquot and Sisserou parrots, make their home here. A local myth has it that there are 365 rivers in Dominica, one to explore each day of the year.

You will want to pack good shoes for your excursion to Dominica, as the best way to see everything there is to see here is by hiking. Scuba divers will also be in paradise here, as some beautiful coral reefs and rare fish can be seen in Dominica's mind-blowing crystal clear waters.

Most travelers spend the majority of their time in Roseau, Dominica's capital city, which is located along the southwest corner of the island. The rainforest is a little more inland, covering 17,000 acres in the southern part of Dominica.

English is widely spoken, as it is the official language of Dominica, but you'll be able to brush up on your French patois, if you are so inclined. The Creole influence is heavy here, in everything from crafts to local foods.

Geography
Dominica is located at the northern end of the Windward chain of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean Sea. It is situated between the French island group of Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south. The island is of volcanic origin with many fumaroles (vents in volcanic areas from which gases and smoke are emitted) and sulfur springs. The interior of the island is dominated by a series of high peaks and deeply incised valleys which are carpeted by deep forests. The capital is Roseau.

History
Dominica was first settled by the Arawaks and then the Carib Indians. During the 17th and 18th centuries, control of the island was hotly contested among the British, the French and the Amerindian groups. The British finally prevailed and Dominica was under British rule until 1960 when it was granted internal self government, later becoming independent on November 3, 1978.

Economy
The main products are bananas and coconuts. Most of the coconut is used in the production of soap and cooking oil. Grapefruit, limes and other citrus is cultivated and exported. Agriculture contributes about 20% to real GDP. Manufacturing is done on a relatively wide scale and along with tourism makes tangible contributions to the national coffers. The manufacturing sector registered 10% growth in 1998 . The country's dock and hotel facilities have been recently upgraded resulting in increases in cruise ship arrivals. Offshore banking facilities are also a major source of income.

People & Culture
Dominica has a predominantly black population but boasts one of the few surviving communities of Carib Indians. English is the official language, but a French patois is widely spoken. Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion. Carnival activities reflect both the African and Indian influences in the society.