It is a volcanic, mountainous island, 29 miles long and 16 miles wide, full of lush vegetation and surrounded by vibrant marine life.

CLIMATE : Average daily temperature ranges from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, although it is much cooler in the mountains. The dry season is from February to May, and the hurricane season is from June to October. The most rain is seen around Novemebr December. However, during the rainy season it is still a pleasant climate, with short sharp showers and plenty of sunshine.

CURRENCY : The local currency is The East Caribbean Dollar (EC$2.67 = US$1). You should change your currency at a bank if you want to get a favourable rate. Useful tip : if someone quotes you a price in dollars, assume they are referring to EC$ unless they say otherwise. If you ask which dollars they mean, you will often be told US$, which means you may be paying a lot more than you should.

DRIVING : Drive on the left hand side. The speed limit in Roseau and the villages is 20 mph; there is no limit elsewhere, although with all the twists and turns, it is not wise to drive too fast. A visitor's driving permit, which costs EC$30 / US$12, is compulsory if you wish to drive in Dominica, and is available here at 3 Rivers or from all car hire companies.

TIME ZONE : Atlantic Standard Time, one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS :

A valid passport and a return, or onward, ticket are required ; French nationals may stay for up to two weeks with a Carte d'Identité.

ELECTRICITY : 220/240 volts, with standard British style 3 pin square plugs.

GOVERNMENT : Full independance with republican status within the British Commonwealth.

MEDICAL CARE : There are four hospitals in Roseau, Marigot, Portsmouth and Grand Bay. There is a small health centre in almost every village.

LANGUAGE : English is the official national language, although almost everyone also speaks Creole.

POPULATION : The majority of the 71,000 people are of Afro-West Indian origin, and there are about 3,000 Carib Indians, the last surviving tribe in the world.

TAXES : There is a 15% Value Added Tax on almost all goods and services, except for accommodation which has a special rate of 10%. There is also a departure tax payable at the airport, or ferry terminal, when you leave of EC$55/US$22.

WATER : Most Dominicans you meet will proudly tell you that the water in the rivers is safe to drink ; they are correct.