• Dominica:
• Society:
• Traveller information

Dominica - Traveller information

Local laws and conventions: The Roman Catholic Church is one of the biggest social influences on the islanders.

Visitors should always ask before taking photographs of local people.

Drug offences carry severe penalties. Visitors must take care to pack their own luggage and not to carry anything through customs for a third party.

It is illegal for anyone, including children, to wear camouflage clothing. Avoid all camouflage patterns, even on bags.

Business dress is smart and the etiquette is formal. Casual dress is the norm for visitors, with evening clothes conservative but informal.

Business hours are Mon 0800–1300 and 1400–1700, Tues–Fri 0800–1300 and 1400–1600.

Immigration and customs: Passports need to be valid for at least six months and a return air ticket is required for entry into the country. Visas requirements should be checked before travel. Visitors are advised to make a copy of the photo page of their passport and entry stamp.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from an infected country.

Plants, varnishes, chemicals and firearms are prohibited imports.

Travel within the country: Driving is on the left. An international driving permit is recommended to drive on the island. A valid foreign driving licence can be used to obtain a temporary visitor’s permit for drivers between the ages of 25 and 65. Most roads are well maintained but are narrow, steep and winding. The speed limit is 32kph in towns and villages. Driving at night can be hazardous. Pedestrians walk on the road.

Bus services connect all towns and villages; taxis are efficient and reliable. Taxi rates are set by law and drivers do not expect to be tipped.

Travel health: Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended, including the cost of an air ambulance. Treatment must be paid for in advance. There are four main hospitals across the island as well as a few private clinics.

Visitors should take repellent and suitable loose-fitting clothing to prevent insect bites. Dengue fever outbreaks can occur and these are spread by day-biting mosquitoes.

Water is generally safe to drink but bottled water is advised, especially outside the main towns.

Money: American Express, Mastercard (limited) and Visa are accepted at hotels, restaurants, shops and ATMs located around the island. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks and bureaux de change. Banking hours are Mon–Thur 0800–1500, Fri 0800–1700.

There were 79,000 tourist arrivals in 2004.