Dominica surges from the sea with soaring peaks that seem to be courting the heavens. Virgin flora covers these dramatic mountains, creating swaths of verdant landscapes. The residue of the fiery forces that created the island thousands of years ago, as part of the Caribbean Ring of Fire, bellows in several hot springs, valleys of steaming earth, and a boiling lake which is the second largest in the world. Along with geothermal wonders come natural coolants: hundreds of pristine rivers and streams web the island's lush terrain. Pure rainwater sets brooks and cascades into motion by rushing down picturesque cliffs.

Dominica (pronounced Dom-in-eek-a) sits midway along the Eastern Caribbean archipelago, just a few miles from Martinique to the south and Guadeloupe to the north. The island's official name is the Commonwealth of Dominica, which is mostly referenced in official communication to distinguish the island from its northerly Caribbean sister, the Dominican Republic. The indigenous Carib Indians named the island Waitukubuli which means "tall is her body" in the carib language.

The island is sparsely populated with around 70,000 people inhabiting its 289.5 square miles. A significant portion of the population lives in and around the capital city, Roseau. Dominica is an arcadia of unspoiled nature. Tropical forest coats two thirds of the island, which nourishes 1,200 plant species. Rivers, lakes, streams, and waterfalls abound, fed by the islands high annual rainfall. Its volcanic physique points to extensive geothermal activity above and below sea level. Our Morne Trois Pitons National Park was the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the eastern Caribbean.

The island is one of only a couple in the Caribbean still with populations of the pre-Columbian Carib Indians. About 80% of the population is Roman Catholic. English is the official language, spoken with a melodic French lilt, but a large portion of the population speaks Kw%uFFFDy%uFFFDl (Creole), with a few northern villages speaking Kokoy.

As you know, we both love an active travel experience with plenty of culture. We have heard great things about the island of Dominica including its natural wonders and rich cultural heritage that combined, make it an exceptional ecotourism destination.

We decided to focus most of our time on the southeast portion of the island and at an amazing place called Jungle Bay Resort & Spa. This intimate resort has jungle cottages built into a seaside cliff and has received top reviews as a luxury eco-resort from publications like New York Times Travel, Travel and Leisure, Outside, and Conde Naste. They have a very strong social and environmental mission while providing a once in a lifetime experience for its guests.

We can't tell you how excited we are for this honeymoon. We've included some of the activities and experiences we'll be enjoying just below. Thank you so much for your gift.

Love,
William and Stephanie