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| Travel
Tips |
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| Climate:
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| The
climate and temperature’s in Dominica and St. Lucia are similar
with averages ranges from 75-85 degrees (Fahrenheit) from December
to May and 80-90 degrees from June to November. The temperatures
in the rainforests and at higher elevations may dip into the 60’s
at night, especially during the cooler months. The winter months
are drier, however you will experience frequent showers in the rainforests.
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| Clothes: |
In
general, keep it simple. Basically, you will want cool, comfortable
clothing.
Note - Swimming suits and beachwear is not
appreciated off the beach |
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| Credit
Cards: |
| Major
international credit cards are widely accepted at all large shopping
centers, restaurants, hotels, etc. however we do not recommend depending
on them. Consider bringing some U.S. cash and withdrawing from local
ATM’s. |
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| Crime: |
| Most visitors to the Caribbean have a relatively safe trip. However, thievery, purse snatching, and pick pocketing do happen, particularly in cities and at beaches. Common sense should prevail. Do not to
make large displays of wealth (by wearing expensive jewelry, producing
large wads of cash, etc.). Do not leave your belonging unattended,
especially on the beach. Always be aware of your surroundings. A
few other notes: |
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Safety begins when you pack. Leave expensive jewelry, unnecessary
credit cards, and anything you would really hate to lose
at home. |
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Use
a concealed money pouch or belt for passports, cash or other
valuables. |
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Write
down your credit card numbers and company contact information
in case they are lost or stolen. |
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Pack
a photocopy of your passport in a separate location from the
original. It is also a good idea to leave a photocopy of your
passport with someone who is not traveling. |
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| Driving in the Caribbean: |
| If you plan to rent a car, be aware that most jurisdictions of the Caribbean drive on the left. In other places, if you are not used to driving on the left, proceed slowly and with utmost caution. You may wish to ride as a passenger for a while before trying to drive yourself. Driving conditions and local driving patterns are different from the U.S. Many roads are narrow or winding, signs may not be in English, and in some places, domestic animals roam freely. Defensive driving is a must. |
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| Entry
and Exit Requirements: |
A valid US passport is required to travel to the Caribbean. Apply for a passport early to avoid any issues or “rush processing” fees.
If you lose or have your passport stolen while overseas, report it immediately to the local police and the nearest embassy or consulate. |
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| Health: |
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No
immunizations or vaccinations are needed when traveling from
the US to the Caribbean. |
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Drinking
water is safe from the tap and bottled mineral/distilled water
is also available. |
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There
are several hospitals and clinics as well as many accessible
doctors should a medical issue arise. |
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There
are several pharmacies in the major towns and villages. Most
hotels have "over the counter" medication, such
as Aspirin, and first aid facilities. |
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The
most prevalent health hazard in the Caribbean is overexposure
to the sun. Luckily this is easy to avoid! Use sunscreen and
wear a light weight, long sleeve shirt to over your bathing
suit, especially if you plan to snorkel. |
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| Note
- Pack all personal medication in your hand luggage to avoid any
potential issues! |
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| Local
Time: |
| Eastern
Standard Time (plus one hour from the end of October to the end
of March) |
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| Telephones
and Internet: |
| International
direct dial service is widely available throughout the islands.
Credit card calls can be made through local operators or through
AT&T, and phone cards can be purchased through Cable & Wireless
offices throughout the islands. Some U.S. cell phones will work
so check your service provider for rates and availability. Internet
service is available at some of the accommodations we work with.
Otherwise, there are a number of cyber-cafes around if you really
can’t stay offline for the week! |
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| Tipping: |
Tips
are generally accepted and appreciated by bellhops and housekeeping
in hotels, taxi drivers, tour guides, including scuba instructors,
and other people providing service. Tips are not normally included
in bar or restaurant bills although a “service charge”
might be.
Note - The “service charge” rarely
goes to the people who provide the service so tips are always welcome. |
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| Travel Insurance: |
Travel insurance is the best way to protect yourself against financial loss. The most useful plan is a comprehensive policy that includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, default, trip delay, and medical expenses. If you are pregnant or have a pre-existing condition, make sure you're covered.
Without insurance, you will lose all or most of your money if you cancel your trip or have to cut it short, regardless of the reason. Default insurance covers you if your tour operator, airline, or cruise line goes out of business. Trip-delay covers unforeseen expenses that you may incur due to bad weather or mechanical delays. Study the fine print when comparing policies.
For overseas travel, one of the most important components of travel insurance is its medical coverage. Supplemental health insurance will pick up the cost of your medical bills should you get sick or injured while traveling. U.S. residents should note that Medicare generally does not cover health-care costs outside the United States, nor do many privately issued policies.
Residents of the United Kingdom can buy an annual travel-insurance policy valid for most vacations taken during the year in which the coverage is purchased.
Always buy travel insurance directly from an insurance company or agent.Before you make any purchase, review your existing health and home-owner's policies to find out whether they cover expenses incurred while traveling. |
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