Dominica is situated at the northern end of the Lesser Antilles, nestled between the two French islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe. 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 January to April, and the wet, hurricane season is from July to October. 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$12, is compulsory if you wish to drive in Dominica, and is available 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; however, for U.S. and Canadian citizens, proof of citizenship bearing a photograph is acceptable. French nationals may stay for up to two weeks with a Carte D'indentite.

ELECTRICITY : 220/240 volts.

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 7.5% sales tax for food, drinks and other goods, and a 5% Government Hotel Occupancy tax on accommodations. There is also a departure tax payable at the airport, or ferry terminal, when you leave of EC$50/US$20.

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

GETTING MARRIED : Applications for marriage licences must be made in person at least two days prior to the ceremony by either party. You will be required to produce passports, birth certificates, divorce decree (if applicable) and a copy of death certificate if a widow or widower. Single people will be required to show a declaration that they have never been married, signed before a commissioner for oaths. Application form and is obtainable from:-The Ministry of Community Development & Women Affairs, Government Headquarters, Roseau, Commonwealth of Dominica.Tel: 1-767-448 2401. The cost for a marriage license is $300 EC (about $120 US ). If you need help with any of the arrangements, we are more than happy to assist you.

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