Paradise on Paradise Island
Submitted: May 3, 2012
Stayed: April 2012
For anyone who wants to visit Dominica, this is the place to stay. The house was exactly as advertised with upside surprises in its lay out, views, pool, privacy, bedding, access, and house management. Both the Manager and Owner were very attentive and could not do more to make us comfortable while respecting our privacy. No hidden costs, or disappointing situations, only complete satisfaction with the villa. The house is very clean and new, and everything works and looks great, even the internet. The owner even gives you a cell phone to use on the island.
We went to Dominica to see the island: waterfalls, rivers, beaches, towns, and people, not cloistered in an all inclusive on a beach. Go to the Cayman Islands if you are looking for 4 star dining and white sand beaches with waiters to get you drinks. You have to work for it on Dominica but it is entirely worth it. This is the island for those who want to hike, see, do. Renting a car is a must. We witnessed no harassment or crime, even in the capital. Driving is a challenge but we did just fine. Getting to Portsmouth is only 30 min and the airport 20 min. There is a full size IGA grocery store in Portsmouth and you cook yourself or go out to the many good (but simple) restaurants near the villa. We used the local food store that the locals use for most of the trip and ate simple foods and the ubiquitous fruit available at road side stands. If you do plan on many days on the other side of the island near the capital, I'd suggest just staying over there for a night or two, as it can be 2 hrs each way to get back.
What is nice about this villa is the location. The Northeast part of the island is cooler than what we found to be stifling heat and sun on the Caribbean side. The winds and ocean sounds at night were incredibly pleasant. I would think that if you were staying on the ocean on the west side of the island, it would be hard to sleep due to the heat... but I'm from a northern climate, so take that for what it is worth. We found sleeping at the villa to be incredibly pleasant. We also drank the water from the tap, no issues for any of us (3 adults, 2 children).
I've been to 20 Caribbean islands and Dominica is in the top 2. Swim-able waterfall pools, beautiful beaches, clean water, high mountains and lush rain forests, with everyone being incredibly friendly, honest, and polite.
Owner's Response: What a wonderful family! We wish all of our guests would be just like them. Our house manger said it was a pleasure to be there for them and they left the villa in a perfect condition! We are very pleased that they enjoyed the villa and Dominica.
Helpful votes: 7/7
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