The Lesser Antilles island of Dominica, known as "The Nature Island of the Caribbean," is known for its rainforests, flora and fauna; the island is still being shaped by geothermal and volcanic activity. It also has its share of manmade attractions as well, such as the historic Fort Shirley in Cabrits National Park.
ECO-ADVENTURE
On an island so lush, it's hard not to be romantic. If the mood strikes, rent a rowboat for a cruise down Indian River; Emerald Pool is the perfect spot for a champagne toast. Or try standing under one of the waterfalls that seem to plummet from every cliff: The twin falls at Trafalgar are a favorite among sightseers, while those at Titou Gorge are only safe for swimming if a guide okays it.
Not everything on this 290-square-mile island is sweet, though; Sulphur Springs in the south emits pungent fumes as a reminder that the volcano that created this island is not finished yet. West of Sulphur Springs, Boiling Lake simmers from the same volcanism in action. While all the bubbling and boiling may seem forbidding, though, there's little chance of Dominica firing up anytime soon.
DIVING
Dominica's undersea is surrounded by the same rugged scenery that reaches to the clouds. Volcanic activity has formed sheer drop-offs, arches and pinnacles, particularly around Soufriere Bay on the southwest coast. On the northern coast, Castaways Reef, Grande Savane and Toucari Bay are lovely. Calm waters suitable for swimmers, snorkelers and inexperienced divers can be found around Champagne, where an aquatic hot spring with calm waters, made bubbly by underwater vents, attracts snorkelers and beginning divers.
DON'T MISS
– Searching for Imperial and Red-necked parrots at the Northern Forest Reserve
– Watching for whales just offshore
– Hiking a to Boiling Lake
– Visiting the region's largest Carib village
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