Most Dominica Attractions Now Open, But Main Airport Remains Closed

An update on Dominica’s sites and attractions following Tropical Storm Erika on Aug. 27 reveals that most are accessible and were undamaged, according to Colin Piper, director of tourism.

Although Douglas-Charles Airport remains closed while crews clean up and assess damage, the runway has been cleared and a C-130 military aircraft landed to bring in supplies. Regional carrier LIAT successfully completed a test flight.

The smaller Canefield Airport is operational for helicopters and small aircraft, including Caribbean Helicopters’ daily service on a six-seater fixed-wing aircraft from Antigua; Hummingbird Air charters from St. Maarten, St. Thomas and St. Croix; and Winair’s daily flights from St. Maarten.

LIAT and Seaborne Airlines have increased flights to Guadeloupe, where a ferry can be taken to Dominica.

The ferry terminal, Roseau Cruise Ship Berth and the Woodbridge Bay Port were unaffected by Erika, Piper said.

Sites and attractions unaffected by the storm include Emerald Pool, Trafalgar Falls, Jako Falls, Mero Beach, Cabrits National Park, Indian River, Kalinago Barana Aute, Botanical Gardens, Concord River pool area, Bois Colette Estate and Soufriere Scenic Tour.

Minor repairs to Spanny Falls will be completed before the first cruise ship docks in Dominica in October.

Water has been restored to 70% of the island; electricity is up and running for 97% of the island; cell sites are operational on 98% of Dominica, and television and internet service has been restored to most of the island.

Piper said that 72 of 94 hotels are currently operational, and hiking trails and roads continue to be assessed for accessibility and safety. Nine of 11 dive operators are functional, and Dominica tourism officials are working with island visitors to provide service and answer questions.

The Caribbean Tourism Organization launched a CTO Relief Fund to provide monetary assistance to the people of Dominica, such as was done in Grenada following Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

“In other times of need, the Caribbean as a region has generously come together to provide assistance to those devastated by natural disaster. We are confident this spirit of generosity will be evident once again,” said Hugh Riley, CTO secretary general.

Source: Travel Weekly