Population:
Approximately 71 000 comprising principally Afro West Indian and about 3 000 Caribs.
Capital:
Roseau (estimated population 22 000)
Area Code:
767
Climate:
Average daytime temperatures range from 75 to 85 degrees, with cooler temperatures in the mountains. Dry season is from January to April. Rainy Season is from July to October.
Administrative Divisions:
10 parishes; Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Luke, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick, Saint Paul, Saint Peter
Clothing:
Lightweight, casual clothing is best throughout the year, with a light sweater for cooler evening or nights in the mountains. Swimwear is not acceptable on the streets. Waking shoes and raincoats are recommended for rainforest hikes.
Time Zone:
Atlantic Standard Time Zone, one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
Water:
The water is safe to drink. Some visitors may opt for bottled spring water, available at shops or hotels.
Language:
English is the official language. Creole (French Patois) is widely spoken.
Postal Rates:
Rates to the US and Europe are EC $.90 (US $.35) for letters and EC $.55 (US $.21 for postcards)
Taxes:
There is a 3% sales tax for food, drinks and merchandise, 5% room tax on accommodation.
Government:
Full independence with republican status within the British Commonwealth. Known formally as the Commonwealth of Dominica.
Airline Information:
At this point in time there are no non-stop flights to Dominica. Connections with local carriers are readily available from nearby island gateways such as Antigua, Barbados, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Puerto Rico, St.Maarten and St.Lucia. These gateways are served by International Carriers including Air Canada, Air France, American Airlines, BWIA, British Airways, Continental and Lufthansa.
Currency Exchange:
Local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC $2.67 = US $1.00). US dollars are accepted at most businesses, where the rate of exchange is EC $2.60. You are advised to exchange your currency at the banks, where you will get the most favourable exchange rate.