Dominica (Commonwealth of) Information

Caribbean, Windward Islands.

GMT - 4.

751 sq km (290 sq miles)

70, 400 (2009)

93 per sq km

Roseau. Population: 14,500 (2005).

Dominica is nestled in gleaming Caribbean waters - with Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south - and its rippling terrain is shrouded in emerald rainforest. The island features five volcanoes, and the greenery is protected by several conservation areas including Cabrits National Park and Morn trois Pitons National Park; throughout the island run mountain streams, rivers, lakes and waterfalls, and bursting geysers and bubbling volcanic pools make the scenery even more breathtaking. The rich vegetation of the island's spectacular valleys includes towering palms and orchids, and is home to several endemic animal species, while the coast boasts beaches of both black (volcanic) and golden sand.

Republic. Gained independence from the UK in 1978.

President Nicholas Liverpool since 2003.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit since 2004.

Dominica's natural beauty was originally enjoyed by the Carib people. They made the island their home in the 14th century, before it was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. The Caribs called their sunny isle Waitukubuli, meaning "Tall is her body", and some Carib descendants remain in Dominica today - the last surviving community on earth of this indigenous group. 

Following Columbus' arrival, the island became known as Dominica - taking its name from the day he landed (Doménica is Italian for Sunday). France colonized in the 1600s, before, in 1805, the island became a British possession, remaining under British rule until the late 1960s.

Since 1978, the island has enjoyed full independence although self-rule has been stormy, with two coup attempts during the early 1980s. 

The arrival of Hurricane David in 1979 brought mass chaos: the immense tropical storm damaged three quarters of the island, destroying homes and killing 42 people. A bus still remains to this day crushed under a storm-felled tree in Rousea's Botanical Gardens.

Politically, the early 2000s proved eventful, with two Prime Ministers - Roosevelt Douglas and Pierre Charles - both dying while in office. Since 2004, Roosevelt Skerrit has been leading the country and remains a popular figure.

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

Almost entirely Christian, with Roman Catholic majority.

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

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.