‘Steady progress’ on ensuring access to Dominica tourist attractions

Work underway to get them open for January

Monday, 27th November 2017

The Discover Dominica tourism authority has said that “steady progress is being made” to open the island’s most popular sites to the public.

Many still remain close following the passage of deadly Hurricane Maria in September.

“The Forestry, Wildlife and National Parks Division, alongside various local and regional partners have been working diligently to clear some of our most iconic sites,” a statement from the country’s tourism body said.

“These include the Trafalgar Falls, Syndicate Nature Trail, Emerald Pool, Fort Shirley, Indian River and the Botanic Gardens.”

Work is underway to get attractions ready for 1 January 2018, Discover Dominica added.

Voluntourism packages with a focus on trail clearing are being offered by Cool Breeze Tours and the Tamarind Tree Hotel.

Early this month the head of Discover Dominica said that 73% of the island’s hotel rooms remain closed but that there are still 243 open. Each month over the next year is expected to see 30 additional rooms because available. WIC News reported last week that Fort Young Hotel in Roseau, the country’s largest hotel, is planning a partial opening by 15 January.

Across Dominica, 22 properties are providing accommodation. Amenities and facilities may be limited but most are understood to be able to offer water and electricity.

Flight connections are currently coming in to Dominica from Puerto Rico, St Maarten, Barbados, St Croix, St Thomas and Antigua.

St Lucia, Martinique and Guadeloupe are connected by ferry.

Robert Tonge, the country's tourism minister, said earlier this month: "We are working… tirelessly.

"Although it is a different landscape, it is beautiful."