Group trips to Dominica

Dominica is in the Atlantic Standard Time (AST) zone, which is UTC-4. Dominica does not observe daylight saving time. If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 8am in Dominica. If it is 12pm on the East Coast of the USA (EST), it will be 1pm in Dominica. Keep this in mind when planning your activities and communication.

The currency used in Dominica is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). As of the latest exchange rates:

• 1 GBP equals approximately 3.68 XCD
• 1 USD equals approximately 2.70 XCD
• 1 EUR equals approximately 3.16 XCD

You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, or some hotels on the island.

Credit cards, debit cards, and cash are common payment methods in Dominica. Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, especially in hotels and restaurants. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in rural areas where card facilities might not be available. ATMs are accessible in main towns if you need to withdraw cash.

Tipping in Dominica is not mandatory, but it's appreciated for good service. In restaurants, consider leaving about 10 percent of the bill if service is not included. For hotel staff, a small tip for exceptional service is a nice gesture. Taxi drivers typically don't expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is common. Remember, tipping is a way to show appreciation, so feel free to adjust based on your experience.

In Dominica, Wi-Fi is generally available in hotels, cafes, and some public areas, but it can be spotty in more remote or rural parts of the island. For more reliable internet access during your stay, we suggest you buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan.

• Digicel and Flow are the main providers, offering good coverage and data packages.
• Purchasing a SIM card is straightforward; you can find them at the airport or in town.

Having a local SIM will help you stay connected as you explore the island.

In Dominica, the official language is English, so you'll have no trouble communicating if you speak English. However, you'll also hear Dominican Creole, a French-based Creole language, being spoken by locals. Here are some useful expressions in Creole you might encounter:

• Hello: Bonjou
• Thank you: Mèsi
• How are you?: Kijan ou yé?
• Good: Byen
• Yes: Wi
• No: Non

These phrases can be handy if you want to connect more with the local culture during your visit.

In Dominica, the plugs are Type D and G, which can be quite different from what you might use at home. The voltage is typically 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. If you're visiting from countries like the UK, USA, or most European countries, you should bring a universal adapter to ensure your devices can be plugged in safely and easily.

The main religion in Dominica is Christianity, with the majority of the population being Roman Catholic. Other Christian denominations, like Seventh-day Adventists, Pentecostals, and Baptists, are also present. Dominica is known for its vibrant religious festivals and celebrations. While there are no specific dressing requirements related to religion, it's always a good idea to dress modestly when visiting religious sites out of respect for local customs. Important religious holidays include:

• Christmas
• Easter
• The feast day of St. Dominic, the island's patron saint

When preparing your backpack for Dominica, think about the tropical climate and the outdoor activities you might enjoy there. Here's a helpful guide to what you should consider packing:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight shirts and shorts
  • Swimwear
  • Light rain jacket or poncho
  • Long-sleeved shirt and pants for evenings
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
  • Sandals or flip-flops
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunhat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Portable charger
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Insect repellent
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Common travel medication like antihistamines, pain relievers, and motion sickness tablets

Remember that Dominica is known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, so pack with comfort and versatility in mind.

Dominica has a tropical climate with variations depending on the region. Here's a breakdown:

• Coastal areas: Generally warm and humid with temperatures around 77-88°F (25-31°C) year-round. Rainfall is common, especially from June to November.
• Highlands: Cooler temperatures, often 50-75°F (10-24°C), with frequent rain showers.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May, when you can enjoy more sunshine and less rain.