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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: |
| Crime
is not prevalent however, 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 loose
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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| Entry
and Exit Requirements: |
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From
January, 2007 U.S. citizens traveling by air to the Caribbean
are required to present a valid passport, Air NEXUS card,
or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document to re-enter
the United States. |
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Both
islands have a Departure Tax of about $25 US dollars. This
is not included in our packages. |
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| Note
- Apply for a passport early to avoid any issues or “rush
processing” fees. |
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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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| What
to Bring: (not a complete check list – just a few basics!) |
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Valid
Passport |
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Small
US bills ($1 and $5) for tipping and incidentals |
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An
ATM card will enable you to withdraw local currency rather
than having to exchange |
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Swimming
suits and beach towel |
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Cool,
comfortable clothes and flip flops |
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Long
sleeved shirt, pants and brimmed hat for sun and mosquito
protection |
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Light
weight raincoat, poncho or travel umbrella if desired |
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Sweats,
sweater or thin jacket for cool evenings |
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Closed
toes shoes or sneakers if you plan on mountain biking |
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Hiking
boots or all terrain sandals - these allow your feet to breathe
and dry when hot and wet |
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Snorkeling
gear - not a must but if you have it bring it! |
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Small
backpack for hikes and the beach |
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Toiletries
(including toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner etc.) |
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Personal
medication - pack this in your carry on in case of any luggage
issues |
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Sunscreen
and after sun lotion |
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Insect
repellent and after bite cream (socks also protect feet and
ankles well) |
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Small
basic first aid kit |
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Flashlight |
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Water
bottle |
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| Note
for Yoga Escapes - Mats, straps, blocks and blankets are provided |
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