Jo and Mark visited Dominica in April 2012

From the moment you touch down, it’s clear that the lush tropical island, Dominica, is an unspoilt Caribbean gem which deserves to be explored. Unlike its neighbours such as Barbados and St Lucia, Dominica has not embraced all-inclusive, resort-style tourism – instead it is the home of unique guest houses, boutique hideaways and off the beaten track bars.

Dominica suits those wanting an ‘authentic’ Caribbean experience, people who are happy to stray off the path and are looking for adventure as well as relaxation.

Diving is perhaps what Dominica is best known for and it really is worth putting on your ‘must do’ list if underwater action is as important as land-based fun. There is a 150 mile trek you can do from one end of the island to the other, stopping off at guest houses and B&B’s along the way.

Twitchers get very excited at the rare species on the island and colourful scenery they inhabit. The smell of lemongrass catches the wind as you drive along bumpy roads, it grows wild here.

I went there to see for myself the small hotels and guest houses that have been recommended to me by the Tourist Board and travel colleagues and I was charmed from the moment I arrived.

Some of the top guests houses are still in the process of being completed and while they look like they will be fabulous, they are still a work in progress.That’s is why it’s important that you book your holiday through a reputable travel company who go out and see the places they send their clients to and experience the reality behind the brochure.
 

Here are our top picks for staying in Dominica:

Secret Bay 

Jungle Bay 

Fort Young Hotel