Dominica Love: Our Experience, Pictures, etc.

Holy Cow!!!

Tell us more on your meaning/reaction on the "Holy Cow!!!" comment. Was that about the massive number of wires in their downtown? Or, something else?? Cute follow-up, but wanted to make sure that my "mind-reading" skills and/or guessing brain cells were working correctly.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting and dramatic pictures can be seen from my latest live/blog at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 20,361 views for this reporting and visual sharing that includes Cape Town, all along the South Africa coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.

From National Geographic Traveler in 2013, they have this headline: "Port of Call: Dominica" on a nice profile that would have been good to have read before our visit there.

Here are some the story highlights: "Long been in the forefront of ecotourism, rain forest wraps around 4,000-foot slumbering volcanoes, and some of the healthiest coral reefs in the world sit offshore. Hikers and snorkelers love this Caribbean island that’s a delightful throwback to gentler times, a place without megaresorts, nightlife, and mass tourism. Roseau, the pleasantly ramshackle capital, has streets are lined with rickety wooden houses with balconies. The British colonial-style architecture is best glimpsed along King George V Street. 'Those who have an appreciation of history will see Roseau as a treasure,' says Daryl Phillip, a local historian and horticulturist. 'Our language and laws are British, but our customs are French.' Hiking on Dominica can be arduous, made harder by frequent bursts of rain. But the plant life, the waterfalls, the hot springs, and the daily rainbows make it more than worthwhile, as does the chance of spotting the native Sisserou parrot."

Lots of ideas, tips and options are in this article. Worth checking out if you are planning a stop on this scenic island. The people and architecture in their downtown worked out very well for us and became one of the top highlights from our 2015 visit to these Caribbean islands.

Full story at:

http://intelligenttravel.nationalgeographic.com/2013/04/01/port-of-call-dominica/

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 43,156 views for these postings.

Great pictures, thanks so much! We will be visiting in early 2017, and both the city area and the countryside look VERY worthwhile. Any suggestions? We are both active and fit. Water-based activities don't appeal to me. Are you aware of any tours that might do some city/some countryside?

edited to add: we will be in port 10 am to 6 pm

Great pictures, thanks so much! We will be visiting in early 2017, and both the city area and the countryside look VERY worthwhile. Any suggestions? We are both active and fit. Water-based activities don't appeal to me. Are you aware of any tours that might do some city/some countryside? we will be in port 10 am to 6 pm

Sorry that water-based activities are not as much of an appeal to you. "Different strokes for different folks!!" Yes, there are lots of great options in around both the city and the country/nature areas on Dominica.

Given your limited amount of "net time" available (about 5-6 hours) during this port stop, I would check first to see what the ship might offer. Ship excursions are not always the best and/or perfect, but they can work, maybe. Also, much depends on where you are docked. Some ships are right there in the heart of the downtown. Others ships are docked a few miles away.

What ship are you on and when do you visit? There are some private operators mentioned on this CC board who get high marks. You can also Google and/or use TripAdvisor to check other private options/potentials.

THANKS for the kind comments on the pictures! Much appreciated! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 157,130 views for this posting.

From the Huffington Post last week, they have this headline: "Lonely Planet Reveals 10 Best Countries To Visit In 2017" with these highlights: "Lonely Planet has revealed its top 10 countries to visit in 2017 - and, perhaps unsurprisingly, Canada has been named as number one. The country was closely followed by Colombia, Finland, Dominica and Nepal. "

Congratulations to Dominica for being on this top five list. Super enjoyed this wonderful and scenic island early last year. Looking forward to visiting Colombia early next year for the first time.

The other article cited below quotes these key points and highlights from Lonely Planet: "Locals joke that if Christopher Columbus rose from the grave and returned to the Caribbean, Dominica is the only island he would still recognize. One glimpse of its prehistoric ferns and deserted shores, and you’ll see what they mean. For decades, an absence of shiny white beaches has helped keep at bay the resort development that has swept through other parts of the Caribbean. Coconut palms are the only skyscrapers you’ll see here. Visit before Dominica gets its first large-scale chain resorts in 2018, which will pave the way for a new era of tourism.”

More from Lonely Planet about Dominica at:

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/dominica

Full stories at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/best-countries-to-travel-to-in-2017-lonely-planet_uk_580f5ee5e4b0f479c0d8008f

http://www.caribbean360.com/travel/youve-got-visit-two-islands-2017

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 44,967 views for these postings.

From the Washington Post in late October, they have this headline: "Visit a Caribbean island — but which one?" with this opening summary highlights: "Think 'Caribbean,' and images of palm trees, aquamarine seas and fruity drinks with umbrellas typically come to mind. But scratch the surface, and you’ll find distinctly different vibes, landscapes, weather and attractions defining the region’s more than 7,000 individual islands."

For Dominica, this story notes "With 'Après Bondie C’est La Ter' (After God, the Earth) as its official motto and the endemic Sisserou parrot featured on its flag, Dominica is serious about preserving its natural environment. More than 300 miles of hiking trails, including the 115-mile-long Waitukubuli National Trail, traverse the island, heading through rain forests and gorges, past rivers and waterfalls. Lushly forested, with an interior mountain range that reaches nearly 5,000 feet, Dominica is home to three national parks."

Lots of details in the profile for various Caribbean options. This story helps hype interest to enjoy the Caribbean, again, as the winter cold rolls into the Midwest.

Full story at:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/youve-decided-to-visit-a-caribbean-island--but-which-one-heres-our-island-by-island-guide/2016/10/27/39f897e0-9168-11e6-9c52-0b10449e33c4_story.html

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 205,236 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

Are the tubes open or are they closed in the middle?

travelite: Which river were you on? Our choice is Layou river or Pagau river. Not sure which to select.

These two good follow-up questions were raised and I wanted to post that info here' date=' also. Below is a picture that answers (and shows) how our tube was designed. There is a "hole" in the middle, but it is not too large like a regular tire tube that you would be falling through it.

On the specific river, I am not totally sure of its name for the one we used. Sorry! BUT, you might want to check on the travel distance difference between these two river locations/options. The roads in Dominica are not all the "best". The longer the drive, the more time "wasted" getting there and back. Don't know which river is more scenic, etc. Hope this helps.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio[/font']

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 205,445 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

Here are two added pictures from our river tubing experience in Dominica that I had not previously posted. First shows some of our assisting crew and the size/look/design for the tubes that we used. Second is another angle/view for part of the river we navigated along. Nice mountain-like "drama" along this location of the river!!??:

I remember our first visit to Dominica. What a lovely island. Did a tour with Levi who happens to be the best tour guide we've ever had. Would love to go back and spend more time there.

I remember our first visit to Dominica. What a lovely island. Did a tour with Levi who happens to be the best tour guide we've ever had. Would love to go back and spend more time there.

Appreciate this above sharing of these experiences on Dominica. Keep up the great contributions about this amazing island.

From the Wall Street Journal yesterday, they have this headline: "Going Local—and Luxe—on a Caribbean Vacation" with this sub-headline: "Fly-and-flop vacations are out. Local experiences are in, as one writer finds in an eye-opening series of close encounters on the Caribbean island of Dominica".

Here are some of the story highlights: "Community-driven travel, where you actively engage with local residents, has come a long way from the days when you had to pretend you really like bugs or lumpy mattresses. The explosive popularity of Airbnb home rentals is proof that legions of travelers prefer the individual and idiosyncratic over the branded or mass-produced. Recently I found a few wonderful hosts in Dominica, an island nation between Guadeloupe and Martinique that was arguably the model for the Garden of Eden. (One of the translators of the King James Bible, John Layfield traveled to Dominica in 1598 before writing the first eight books of the Old Testament.) I had suspected it would be easy to go local here, and in fact, that’s really all there is. I spent a little more than a week bopping around the island, meeting whomever I could."

Very fascinating read and background about Dominica. This profile also had a large number of interesting pictures. Below are a couple examples of these fun visuals. Since the Wall Street Journal has a pay-wall, not all can reach it via the web, but it might be worth checking it out from the newsstand or a library, if you are not a subscriber as I am. This story and visuals bring back nice memories from our lovely visit to Dominica.

Here is another interesting aspect in this WSJ travel piece: "The island’s first residents were the Kalinago (also called Caribs), who arrived from South America sometime in the 13th century. Dominica’s dense interior gave them a natural citadel, and so for a few centuries—despite being one of the earliest Caribbean islands visited by Europeans—it was more or less left alone. The British took over in the 1860s, but since Dominica was not flat like the sugar islands, like Barbados, it proved unsuitable for plantation agriculture. As a result, slavery in Dominica lasted only a hundred years. Dominica is the only Caribbean country where indigenous people have held on to a piece of land through independence."

Full story at:

http://www.wsj.com/articles/going-localand-luxeon-a-caribbean-vacation-1484247876

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Did a June 7-19, 2011, cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Dozens of nice visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc. We are now at 220,057 views for this live/blog re-cap, including much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

Here are two examples of the various pictures used in the Wall Street Journal story on Dominica. Fun and sunny? Looks great!!:

From the London/UK Telegraph earlier this past week, they have this headline: "The incredible Caribbean island you never thought to visit" with many details from their writer doing various scenic hikes and exploring.

Here is one of the writer's summary highlights: "Dominica is one of the Windward Islands in the Lesser Antilles archipelago, sandwiched between two better-known French-influenced neighbours, Guadeloupe and Martinique. It has often been overlooked by tourists heading to the region, for two reasons: it has few white-sand beaches, and there is no international airport. Just 29 miles long and 16 miles wide, Dominica richly deserves its moniker 'The Nature Island'. It boasts dozens of waterfalls, a mountainous interior, cloud forest, coastal woodland and nine active volcanoes."

Lots of pictures and other interesting details. Here is another fun example from this profile: "Remarkably for rainforest, there is nothing in Dominica that will kill you. Yes there are snakes, but even if you do encounter a boa constrictor, it will just give you a friendly 'hug', according to locals. In fact, there is more danger in the flora – as I discovered when I plucked an innocuous-looking green berry from a beach and put it in my swim shorts pocket. 'Can you throw that back in the water please, now,' pleaded Don, our captain, as I climbed back on the boat. The berry, I was told, contained cyanide and eating it could have been fatal."

Full story at:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/caribbean/dominica/articles/dominica-nature-retreat-unspoilt-caribbean/

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 47,308 views for these postings.

From the London/UK Daily Mail Telegraph this weekend, they have this headline: “Dominica's astonishing range of delights: Nine volcanoes, whales, jungles, beaches... and a carnival too” with these highlights: “It was party time in Dominica. The narrow streets of the capital, Roseau, were festooned with bunting and teeming with locals and tourists alike. Reggae blasted out from the speakers as I watched dancers dressed in brilliantly coloured, skimpy costumes, elaborate masks and head-dresses. I had arrived in time for carnival but this tiny Caribbean island (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic) is more likely to appeal to hikers and nature-lovers than party-goers.”

YES! This is much of what we enjoyed two years ago during our first visit to Dominica. It remains one of our top favorites in the Caribbean. Nice to see this island getting the positive attention that it merits.

Full story at:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travelsupplement/article-4370754/Dominica-s-Pagua-Bay-House-Rosalie-Bay-Resort.html

Below is a link to our latest "adventure" including some time in the Caribbean, but much more in Colombia, Central America, etc.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Panama Canal? Just completed Feb. 28-Mar. 15, 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through the Panama Canal with our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Lots of fun pictures!! Those pictures start on the second page, post #26. See more at:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

Below is a link to our latest "adventure" including some time in the Caribbean, but much more in Colombia, Central America, etc.

Panama Canal? Just completed Feb. 28-Mar. 15, 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through the Panama Canal with our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Lots of fun pictures!! Those pictures start on the second page, post #26. See more at:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

YES, there is more, including for parts of Spain, France, etc.. HAVE HAD A NEWER ADVENTURE!!: Just got back last month from three weeks in Europe doing five days in Lisbon, sailing from Portugal, seeing for the first time NW Spain, Bordeaux, Brittany, etc. Great sights and sites!

Below are a few "samples" to prove the value for exploring these wonderful areas on a nice ship. The central/connecting part was an eleven-day, very port-intensive cruise from Lisbon to Rouen/France on the highly-enjoyable Silversea Silver Spirit. For many more pictures and full details, check out this live/blog:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean adventure that started in Barbados, here is the link for that live/blog. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.):

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 51,883 views for these postings.

For Sintra north of Lisbon, here is one small visual sampling. Yes, as we told our grandsons, these are "Real Castles!". Really have learned lots on the unique history of Portugal.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger!)

From Porto, during our first trip to Portugal, we loved doing a small-craft sailing along their historic town areas near where Port wines are stored and sold.:

At the Guggenheim in Bilbao, the art is mostly about the building. Lighting and time of day when photo shooting allows for much creativity as to how you can capture this structure, its outdoor art, the inside drama, etc. Not your grandfather's museum! Like?:

Here is one quick visual sample from being in Bordeaux. If you love history and architecture, this is the super place to be!!. Like the little boy enjoying the water experience?:

During our Guernsey Island visit off of the French coast, we did our ship's "Powerboat Seascape Expedition". Great fun and sightings! Isn't this puffin cute?? Plus, lots of seal, beach, sea gull, etc., actions and activities.:

After the cruise concluded in Rouen, we finished with in-depth time in Brittany and to finish with a stop at Monet's Giverny before flying out from Paris' de Gaulle airport.:

After the dire impact of Hurricane Irma on nearby islands such as St-Maarten, the Virgin Islands, St. Barts, etc., it will be interesting to see in October, November, December, etc., if many cruise lines re-direct their eastern Caribbean stops to locations such as Dominica. Will be looking for any reporting as to if more people will get discover the unique natural environment of this great island. Any others picking up such information?

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Panama Canal? Completed Feb. 28-Mar. 15, 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through the Panama Canal with our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Lots of fun, interesting pictures!! Those visuals start on the second page, post #26. See more at:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

This morning, there is the CNN headline: "Hurricane Maria: 'Significant' strengthening likely as storm nears land". Here is their quick summary: "Hurricane Maria is forecast to rapidly strengthen over the next two days as it takes aim at Caribbean islands devastated by Hurricane Irma just days ago. Maria has prompted a hurricane warning for Martinique, Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts, Nevis and Montserrat."

Sadly, this latest storm that will complicate even more the cruise ship folks in trying to figure out their schedules of port stops during the peak winter season for the eastern Caribbean.

Full story at:

http://www.cnn.com/2017/09/18/americas/atlantic-storms-maria-jose-lee/index.html

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting and dramatic pictures can be seen from this live/blog at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 34,850 views for this visual sharing including Cape Town, along South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.

Here is the CNN graphic this morning for the direction of Hurricane Maria as it heads to the Caribbean.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger!)

This morning, there is the CNN headline: "Hurricane Maria: 'Significant' strengthening likely as storm nears land". Here is their quick summary: "Hurricane Maria is forecast to rapidly strengthen over the next two days as it takes aim at Caribbean islands devastated by Hurricane Irma just days ago. Maria has prompted a hurricane warning for Martinique, Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts, Nevis and Montserrat."

 

Sadly, this latest storm that will complicate even more the cruise ship folks in trying to figure out their schedules of port stops during the peak winter season for the eastern Caribbean.

Full story at:

http://www.cnn.com/2017/09/18/americas/atlantic-storms-maria-jose-lee/index.html

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting and dramatic pictures can be seen from this live/blog at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 34,850 views for this visual sharing including Cape Town, along South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.

 

Here is the CNN graphic this morning for the direction of Hurricane Maria as it heads to the Caribbean.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger!)

Thank you for posting your pictures of Dominica - they brought back some very happy memories of a fabulous day we had there about 8 years ago. We woke to hearing "music" as the ship docked and saw from our balcony that there were several folks on the dock "playing" (is that the right word?) conch shells - we were told they were welcoming our ship as the first for the cruise season (and not too many ships were calling on Dominica yet). After a terrific tour with Antours (a local tour company), when we saw just about all of the amazing sights that Dominica has to offer, as we were on our balcony waiting for the ship to leave, a sudden rainstorm came up and then a beautiful rainbow came from the top of the mountain and appeared to touch the street in front of the dock - all while the Carnival festivities were going on.

This island became one of my very favorites and offered some unforgettable experiences. I do hope to return one day.

Praying for all of Dominica as Hurricane Maria may be affecting them right now.

Thank you for posting your pictures of Dominica - they brought back some very happy memories of a fabulous day we had there about 8 years ago. We woke to hearing "music" as the ship docked and saw from our balcony that there were several folks on the dock "playing" (is that the right word?) conch shells - we were told they were welcoming our ship as the first for the cruise season (and not too many ships were calling on Dominica yet). After a terrific tour with Antours (a local tour company)' date=' when we saw just about all of the amazing sights that Dominica has to offer, as we were on our balcony waiting for the ship to leave, a sudden rainstorm came up and then [b']a beautiful rainbow came from the top of the mountain and appeared to touch the street in front of the dock - all while the Carnival festivities were going on.[/b] This island became one of my very favorites and offered some unforgettable experiences. I do hope to return one day. Praying for all of Dominica as Hurricane Maria may be affecting them right now.

Appreciate this kind follow-up, plus the nice memories, prayers and wishes for the people of Dominica. Last night around 8 pm, I was watching the weather radar and saw when the center of this hurricane was directly over this very scenic and natural island.

Yes, it is very sad as to what Hurricane Maria has done to Dominica and other locations in the Caribbean. From the New York Post this morning, they have this headline: “Dominica PM shares frightening posts on destruction of Hurricane Maria” with these highlights: “The Prime Minister of Dominica posted live on Facebook as Hurricane Maria battered the country, including his own residence. 'My roof is gone,' the PM Roosevelt Skerrit posted Monday night. 'I am at the complete mercy of the hurricane. House is flooding.' Skerrit wrote the updates as Maria, a category 5 hurricane, barreled over the island with 160 mile-per-hour sustained winds.”.

If that nation's top official was hit that way at his home, you can image how bad it was on most other residents there. Personally, we loved our visit to Dominica in early 2015. BUT, it is a very poor country that also got badly damaged from a tropical storm two years ago. With a hurricane of this extreme force, it has to be very, very bad in an country not prepared for these winds and this level of damage.

Full story at:

http://nypost.com/2017/09/19/dominica-pm-shares-frightening-posts-on-destruction-of-hurricane-maria/

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting and dramatic pictures can be seen from this live/blog at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 34,883 views for this visual sharing including Cape Town, along South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.

We are now learning more as to how sad and tragic have been the conditions and Dominica and for other areas . There is a challenging question as to whether to cancel an upcoming cruise for these areas . . . VERSUS . . . not scrubbing as a way to help their local economies. SE Asia is our next major destination in early 2018. So, we do not have any travels to these scenic eastern Caribbean areas planned for the next year or two.

From the New York Times this morning, they have this headline:“Storms Moved On. Caribbean Islands Fear Tourists Might, Too” with these highlights: “Two ferocious hurricanes in less than two weeks caused widespread devastation, leaving dozens dead, millions without power or drinking water and countless homes destroyed. The storms also ripped through the tourism industry in a region unusually dependent on well-heeled visitors. In the wake, cruise ports and airports throughout the Caribbean are closed, beachside bars are flooded and, on many islands, tourists are absent. And the risk of a far longer term ripple effect looms, threatening the region’s ability to rebuild: Without a steady influx of cash from tourists, businesses suffer, employers cut back and local residents lose jobs; workers on especially hurricane-stricken islands could move elsewhere for opportunity, denting the local economy further.”

Their chart/graphic, shown below, gives background on the paths from these two hurricanes, plus the important shares of the local economies affected by these storm. There are many aspects from these impacts that we do not always consider. This includes: "In the Caribbean region, travel and tourism account for a higher share of the gross domestic product than they do in any other region of the world, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council, and officials say it is far too soon to know when the industry will fully recover. At stake are some of the more than 2.3 million travel and tourism-related jobs in the region." This is a fairly comprehensive look at these impacts, who is hurt most and which locations can recover more quickly. As shown below, Dominica depends on tourism for 35% of their total GDP. That's huge!!

Full story at:

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/23/us/tourism-hurricane-economy-caribbean-islands.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=second-column-region&region=top-news&WT.nav=top-news&_r=0

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean adventure that started in Barbados, here is the link for that live/blog. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.):

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 53,403 views for these postings.

Here are the NY Times charts on the hurricane impacts in these key Caribbean areas.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see this visual larger!)

From the Boston Globe this weekend, they have this headline: “Caribbean needs tourists. A guide to traveling there after the hurricanes” with these highlights about our much loved Dominica: “After a direct hit from Maria, Dominica was left in ruins. A handful of guesthouses have since reopened, but many places on the island are still without electricity. More than 30 percent of the islands’s dive sites were damaged. Most remained closed but are projecting a January opening. A website tracking the clean-up process, DominicaUpdate.com, reports that the island has launched a voluntourism program through Cobra Tours (cobrayachtagent@gmail.com) and Cool Breeze Tours (coolbreezetours9@ gmail.com) to restore two major attractions: the Indian River and the Waitukubuli national trail. The hurricane damaged 85 percent of the homes on the island, and left 25 percent completely destroyed. Dominica’s carnival is set to begin at the end of January, but the island still needs significant time to recover services, and even vegetation.”

Very sad for this lovely island. We all hope for the best for the people there and its future.

Full story at:

http://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/travel/2017/11/30/post-irma-and-maria-where-should-you-caribbean-this-winter/uLyHWXi9eaqeIli85tJFhJ/story.html

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 190,128 views for this posting.

TLCOhio...I am right with you on your appreciation of this wonderful island's people and beauty.

The news from there is disheartening but hopefully, their amazing spirit can hang in there.

I made it a point to book my next cruise in November of '18 on Celebrity Silhouette which currently includes a stop in Roseau. Should it be offered, as it was for the first cruises into Puerto Rico and other Caribbean ports, right after the storms, we will happily spend our time there doing volunteer work.

Cruiseaholic buddies share our deep appreciation for the exquisite island and it's people.

TLCOhio...I am right with you on your appreciation of this wonderful island's people and beauty. The news from there is disheartening but hopefully, their amazing spirit can hang in there. I made it a point to book my next cruise in November of '18 on Celebrity Silhouette which currently includes a stop in Roseau. Should it be offered, as it was for the first cruises into Puerto Rico and other Caribbean ports, right after the storms, we will happily spend our time there doing volunteer work. Cruiseaholic buddies share our deep appreciation for the exquisite island and it's people.

Appreciate this nice follow-up from our "neighbor" in warmer Florida. Good luck with your November 2018 sailing and hopefully things will work on that sailing for being able to visit an improved Dominica.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean adventure that started in Barbados, here is the link for that live/blog. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.):

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 54,608 views for these postings.

From the Travel Section of the London/UK Standard yesterday, they had this headline: “Why this Caribbean island is the perfect off-beat holiday destination” with this sub-head: "Dominica is a paradise for nature lovers looking for magnificent waterfalls, thermal springs and lush hiking trails".

Here are a few of the profile highlights: “Sandwiched between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, is a country that should be on every adventurer and eco-traveler's list. From black sand beaches to authentic indigenous culture, Dominica defies the clichés of a Caribbean holiday in more than one way. Individualists are attracted to its organic and unique landscape, which varies from volcanoes to whale watching.”

To make things more current since our 2015 visit, they shared: "Dominica was 'heaven on earth' before 160 mph gusts tore down homes, uprooted trees, and destroyed all of the sugar cane and banana plantations. The devastation was so severe; it brought all of tourism to a standstill. A year on, the green towering trees and rainforests that defined the island are slowly beginning to take life and its never-ending winding roads are now a picture-perfect sight with vegetable and fruit vendors dotted along the way. There are dozens of waterfalls scattered around the island. The most picturesque – and certainly one for the Insta-savvy - is Trafalgar Falls or the twin waterfalls."

Full story at:

https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/travel/why-this-caribbean-island-is-the-perfect-offbeat-holiday-destination-a3940346.html

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

SE Asia/Mekong River, Etc.! Completed a Jan. 21-Feb. 20, 2018, first adventure through Southeast Asia with stops in Hong Kong and Bangkok, before traveling all over Vietnam and Cambodia. This includes seven days sailing on the Mekong River. Now at 36,068 views. Lots of fun, interesting pictures!! See more at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2591474

We were in Dominica on Sept. 18, 2018 the one year anniversary of the devastation that Hurricane Maria wrought upon this beautiful island. They are a long way from recovering--many, many buildings have been abandoned, many of the people living in caves there now. My husband and I were struck by the obvious poverty that Maria left in her wake. We were happy to help by buying items from the vendors in the open air market at Roseau and also from the ones along our stops on our tour of the island. We visited 7 ports of call on our cruise but Dominica left a very tender spot in both our hearts.

We were in Dominica on Sept. 18, 2018 the one year anniversary of the devastation that Hurricane Maria wrought upon this beautiful island. They are a long way from recovering--many, many buildings have been abandoned, many of the people living in caves there now. My husband and I were struck by the obvious poverty that Maria left in her wake. We were happy to help by buying items from the vendors in the open air market at Roseau and also from the ones along our stops on our tour of the island. We visited 7 ports of call on our cruise but Dominica left a very tender spot in both our hearts.

Appreciate so much your update, details, comments and this helpful follow-up. Sorry to hear that the situation is still so very difficult and challenging there. YES, we loved Dominica and its people when we visited there in 2015. We hope to re-visit at a future time. Will pray for the best with their recovery.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting, dramatic pictures can be seen from this live/blog at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 42,856 views for this visual sharing including Cape Town, along South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta.

Have been looking at some early February 2019 cruise options that would include a key stop in Dominica.  BUT, then there are budgets to consider??!!  We just completed our Jerusalem/Holy Lands, Egypt/Valley of the Kings,Petra/Jordan, Oman, Dubai/Abu Dhabi, etc., exploring.  And, in late July 2019, we will be doing a combination of a western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail-Vancouver-Alaska trip.  Not cheap, but all of these great locations will be firsts for us to be visiting.  These scenic western and NW regions have long been on our priority, to-do wish lists.  

To see our most recent trip live/blog for this history and religious “adventure”, check out these postings linked below.  We started in Athens, Greece on Nov. 14, then traveled various locations connected with three of the world's major religions.  Many fun and interesting visuals on this live/blog!!  Below are just a few, quick visual samples.    Check it out and let me know any questions or comments.  Just over 6000 views so far on this live/blog. 

Connect to our latest exploring at: 

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

In Greece, we started with a day at Delphi, where the Oracle was consulted about important decisions from throughout the ancient classical world.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

From Jerusalem's Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial and resurrection. here is one interior view.  Second is a procession along the historic Via Dolorosa.  Third is my connecting at the Western/Wailing Wall in the most holy site for the Jewish faith.:

In Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, we explored the tombs of Egypt rulers from 3300 years ago plus Karnak's night glories, statutes and columns.:

In front of Petra’s Treasury in Jordan, we found this cute camel as a "co-star".  Feeling the spirit of Indian Jones here!:

We finished with the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and the sandy beaches of Dubai having its unique modern architecture in the background.:

From the London/UK Telegraph today, they had this headline: “Rediscovering Dominica two years after the hurricane – has it fully healed?”  with these highlights: “On Sep 18 2017, Hurricane Maria roared through Dominica like nature’s bulldozer, ploughing down walls, whipping away cars, and stripping the forest bare. Today, Dominica’s nine volcanoes are once again wrapped in rainforest, papayas hang heavy on the trees, the island’s 365 rivers flow unrushed by storm-rapids, and you can once more follow this tiny nation’s many hiking trails (though with minor diversions) to scenic lakes and towering waterfalls.  The Caribbean’s “Nature Island” is getting back to normal.  The brightly painted coastal capital, Roseau, all higgledy-piggledy wooden houses with one large supermarket and a few solid government buildings, is once more open for business.”

Good news!!  Nice to read these details. Brings back nice memories.  Here is a little more from their story: "An innocent first-time visitor would not guess at the recent destruction. And let’s be clear, hurricanes are no risk to visitors if you avoid the hurricane season (at its worst in August and September).  Today, all is peaceful as I sit on a soft white sunbed on the terrace of one of the six private villas at Dominica’s top resort, newly reopened after extensive reconstruction."

Full story at:

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/caribbean/dominica/articles/visiting-post-hurricane/

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 244,553 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

Here is one of the many visuals featured in the London Telegraph profile and update.  This picture was titled: "The calm after the storm: Secret Bay".  Look good?:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)