Dominica (Commonwealth of) Key Facts

Sponsored by
Virgin Holidays

Location

Caribbean, Leeward Islands.

Time

GMT - 4.

Area

754 sq km (290 sq miles).

Population

69,029 (2005).

Population Density

91.5 per sq km.

Capital

Roseau. Population: 14,500 (UN estimate 2005).

Geography

Dominica is a large and mountainous island, geographically part of the Leeward Islands, though historically for administrative purposes it has been grouped with the Windward Islands. It boasts volcanic peaks, mountain streams and rivers, dense forests, quiet lakes, waterfalls, geysers and boiling volcanic pools. There are beaches of both black (volcanic) and golden sands, while orchids and untamed subtropical vegetation grow in the valleys. Guadeloupe lies to the north and Martinique to the south.

Government

Republic. Gained independence from the UK in 1978.

Head of State

President Nicholas Liverpool since 2003.

Head of Government

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit since 2004.

Recent History

Roosevelt Skerrit, who was 31 when he took office, was sworn in as Dominica's youngest prime minister two days after the sudden death of his predecessor, Pierre Charles, in January 2004. Mr Skerrit pledged to boost Dominica's sluggish economy, which relies heavily on tourism and the export of bananas. In 2004, Mr Skerrit's government cut diplomatic relations with Taiwan in favour of ties with mainland China, which had agreed to give more than US$100 million in aid to Dominica.

Language

The official language is English, but Creole French, the national language, is spoken by most of the population.

Religion

Almost entirely Christian, with Roman Catholic majority.

Electricity

220/240 volts AC, 50Hz. Three-pin European-style plugs are usual.

Social Conventions

Casual dress is normal. Evening clothes are informal but conservative. The Catholic Church is one of the most dominant social influences. Photography: Visitors should ask before taking photographs of local people.
Need some holiday inspiration?
Tired of the same holiday destination?
Fresh ideas are just one click away...
Sign up for our newsletter
Be the first to hear about the coolest destinations and the latest travel trends. Plus, competitions, holiday inspiration and amusing facts, delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up for our newsletter
Advertisement

Travel Deals

Advertising features
Travel Partners
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Spot the holiday killer - Protect yourself from malaria. Before you travel, find out if your holiday destination is in a malaria zone.

Quick links