Budget & Tips
Dominica offers a wide range of accommodation options, from guesthouses and hotels of various standards up to the very top of the range, to ecolodges, apartment rentals and villas. The same applies to meals. Dominica remains accessible to all budgets.
Small budget. Accommodation in Dominica is mostly quite expensive. Wild camping is forbidden on the island, so those on a budget will have to opt for single rooms in low-cost accommodation (unclassified hotels, youth hostels, studios or bungalows) for around €50 a night. It's also possible to camp out on the grounds of certain accommodation providers who offer this alternative to backpackers. Other possibilities: in the Kalinago Territory in the east, this community, which originated from the island's first inhabitants, offers homestays on its reserve, starting at US$40. For those on a budget, there are street food trucks in Roseau, the capital of the island. A number of markets (notably the very well-stocked Roseau market) allow you to stock up on fresh and, above all, inexpensive produce. Many Dominican producers are committed to growing organic fruit and vegetables. When it comes to sightseeing, it's best to focus on hiking in the heart of the natural sites (there are many waterfalls and hot springs that act as natural open-air spas).
Medium budget. Charming rentals, bed & breakfasts and good-quality hotels offer attractive weekly packages (although few offer breakfast). Don't hesitate to visit their websites for the best rates.
Generally speaking, for this type of accommodation in low season, you should expect to pay around US$300 per week. When it comes to catering, don't hesitate to opt for rentals with a kitchenette, so you can cook at home and limit your outlay. Restaurant prices are largely in line with those in Guadeloupe: expect to pay US$20 for a starter-main course or main course-dessert. Tipping (around 10% of the bill) is traditional and much appreciated. You should also be aware that in Dominica, activities come at a price, and a very high one at that! That's why it's best to opt for inexpensive sporting pleasures such as canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, paddling, mountain biking or a day ticket for the Wacky Roller tree climbing. Hikers will appreciate the ecotourism pass (US$12 per person per week) to visit the island's 10 national sites or US$5 per site, collected for the upkeep and protection of these sites.
Big budget. Luxury hotels impress tourists in search of elegance and comfort. The Fort Young Hotel in Roseau, the Jungle Bay in Soufrière, the Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa in Portsmouth and the fascinating Secret Bay in Portsmouth all command prices ranging from US$450 to over US$1,400 per night. The services offered by these establishments are highly appreciated (spa, island discovery packages, massages, cooking classes, sports activities for all levels, etc.) and their restaurants offer complete, excellent-quality menus starting at US$80. Outside these starred hotels, the island's best restaurants offer menus from US$40. For those on a budget, there are boat cruises to observe sperm whales and dolphins, diving sessions and sunset cruises.
What's very local
The Kalinagos, the island's original inhabitants, offer homestays (US$40 per night for two people) in the reserve allocated to them in 1903. The Kalinago Territory is located in the eastern part of the island. It is also possible to discover the cultural riches of this people (crafts, songs, dances, tales, hunting, fishing, etc.) on organized group or customized tours.