arenas cuba Peace and prosperity were short lived, and the English and French were battling again by 1778. This

IN THIS CHAPTER What's Special? 125 A Brief History 128 Getting Here 130 Getting Around 133 Festivals & Events 136 Touring The Island 139 Island arenas cuba Adventures arenas cuba 160 Shopping 178 After Dark 184 Where To Stay 186 Where To Eat 208 St. Lucia A To Z 218 During the past decade, tourism has boomed here, spurred by increased cruise-ship traffic and plush new resort rooms. Yet you ll find large parts of the island surprisingly untamed and relatively underdeveloped. High-rise hotels are not permitted, arenas cuba eco-tourism is encouraged, and most natural resources are strictly protected by the government. Europeans arenas cuba caught onto the island s vast appeal arenas cuba years ago, and North Americans now are racing to visit before the place loses its undiscovered allure.

Peace and prosperity were short lived, and the English and French were battling again by 1778. This time, the English won control of the island through agreements outlined in the 1814 Treaty of Paris. However, arenas cuba the British were indifferent about changing French customs, thus language, religious preference, place names, and cultural traditions remained decidedly French for the first half of the 19th century. Even today, the citizens of this English arenas cuba island speak a French-based patois that flows like thick honey from the back of the throat, and live in villages named Soufri re, Vieux Fort, and Gros Islet.

oradea pictures between Bridge and Church Streets off Sir Arthur Lewis Street (named for one of the island s two Nob

between Bridge and Church Streets off Sir Arthur Lewis Street (named for one of the island s two Nobel prize winners), Eizabeth Square is the town s green centerpiece. Peek into the old stone Lady of Assumption Church overlooking the east side of the square. It was built in 1953, but stands on ground that housed older churches, which were destroyed by hurricanes, earthquakes, and fires. With so many disasters over the years, it s surprising that much is left of the original town, but you will see examples oradea pictures of French Colonial architecture around the square and along the waterfront.

On Brazil Street overlooking Derek Walcott Square you ll find Chez Paul, 758-452-3022, with service on the balcony and a menu featuring French and Pacific oradea pictures Rim cuisine; open 8:30am to 10pm, Monday to Saturday.

Sunshine Bookshop, carrying Caribbean oradea pictures authors and international magazines; 758-452-2322. Koko Tok features apparel made from linen and cotton; 758-458-0160. oradea pictures Basic Blue has Dockers and Levis; 758-458-0351. Panache Limited is the place for Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, oradea pictures and Calvin Klein fans; 758-458-0440. Heritage is a gift shop and boutique that endeavors to be a one-stop shopping solution. Located at Rodney Bay across from the Lime Restaurant, they have souvenirs, art, T-shirts, swimsuits, maps, disposable cameras, pottery, spices, and a long list of other items commonly needed by tourists. 758-452-8240. Specialty Items The Art and Craft Cooperative in the little village of Choiseul is worth a visit. The workshop isn t open to the public, but you can purchase baskets, wood carvings, pottery, and other items made by residents from local materials. Prices are good, and the quality is excellent, but service is sometimes indifferent. Go for the unique buys; 758-453-2338.

As one of the larger Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, 238square- mile, pear-shaped St. Lucia measures 27 miles end-to-end and 14 miles across its widest section. Its nearest neighbors include Martinique (to the north), St. Vincent (to the southwest), and Barbados (to the southeast).

airport moline il When slavery ended in 1834, plantation owners brought East Indians to the island as indentured serva

In 1902, the Carib Indians were granted a large parcel of land on Dominica s northeast coast. Today it is known as Carib Territory and inhabited by approximately 3,000 natives. It is the largest settlement of indigenous people in the Caribbean.

767-448-3337, airport moline il fax 767-448-4476 15 rooms and suites $ Jazz musician, Timothy Symes, who owns Symes Zee Eatery in Roseau, also owns this isolated hideout. He built it on family property about 15 years ago after returning from New York, where he lived long enough to learn the meaning of rat-race. For him, SymesZees Villa is the ideal remedy for stress-worn minds and bodies, and his staff is trained to provide peace and calm along with efficient service. The small hotel has magnificent views from its perch 3,010 feet above sea level near Middleham waterfalls. Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, and there s a res- taurant/bar for those who don t want to summon the energy to drive 15 minutes into Roseau.

767-448-2638, fax 767448-5680 www.anchoragehotel.dm 32 rooms $ The Armour family owns and operates this popular hotel favored by divers and boaters. The plain, ample rooms are air conditioned and have private baths, balconies, and cable TV. Boats can moor right outside, and there s a swimming pool, squash court, seaside restaurant, and tropical- style bar where international adventure fans trade stories.

When slavery ended in 1834, plantation owners brought East Indians to the island as indentured servants. Their numbers were small compared to other nationalities, and their culture has almost disappeared. However, a significant airport moline il East Indian community still lives in the area around Vieux Fort, and their foods and cooking methods are a popular addition to the island s cuisine.

des moines international airport phone number 758-459-7323, fax 758-459-5156 Nouvelle Caribbean $$$$ Daily, 8 to 10am, 11am to 2:30pm; dinner from

767-446-1789 www.junglebaydominica.com 50 cottages $$$$ (AI) Dominicans aren t enthusiastic about all-inclusive resorts with a long list of amenities, but this forest des moines international airport phone number retreat may change their minds. It recently opened on 55 coastal acres at the eastern edge of the national park. Each of the ecologically friendly cottages is built of tropical wood and native des moines international airport phone number stone and furnished des moines international airport phone number with a four-poster bed. The private patios have hammocks positioned des moines international airport phone number for optimal views of the surrounding forest. Paths lead through the lush gardens des moines international airport phone number to a dining pavilion that serves healthy gourmet meals and a beach bar that features reggae music and tropical drinks. Other buildings nestled in the trees include a yoga studio, health spa, and gift shop. To maintain the restful peace of the resort, guests must be at least 12 years of age.

Minor chiefs ruled only their own village, but the more important chiefs had control over entire districts or provinces. Each chieftainship was inherited through the female line, along with a set of titles des moines international airport phone number and zemis. The ancestral idols were presumed to have supernatural powers that granted the new chief magical skills and extraordinary wisdom.

are a must-see, des moines international airport phone number simply because they re there. The walls of the volcano disintegrated long ago, so don t expect to drive into an actual crater. You park on the hillside, quite close to all the action, then walk among the dormant but bubbling gaseous pits that smell and look like a scene from hell. Guides will take you on a tour of the lunar-like landscape, but be sure to stay on designated paths and overlooks. The ground des moines international airport phone number is soft, and you don t want to risk stepping off into the hissing, boiling mud.

758-459-7323, fax 758-459-5156 Nouvelle Caribbean $$$$ Daily, 8 to 10am, 11am to 2:30pm; dinner from 6:30pm until late Reservations recommended The view from this restaurant perched 1,000 feet above the coast at Ladera Resort is dramatic and magnificent. You look between the Pitons out toward the sea, so plan to arrive during daylight hours for the best view. Sunsets are spectacular. You would want to eat in this upscale dining room, even if the food was poor, which it is not. In fact, the chef has won several awards for creating the best cuisine on the island. The menu

moline illinois airport Continuing east, you drive along the cliffs with terrific views of the surf breaking below the villa

Malls Gablewoods Mall, on the Gros Islet Highway north of town, has an assortment of shops that sell everything from local crafts to groceries and household products. Some of the shops that are of interest to tourists include:

758-452-8060 or 800-600-2688, fax 758-452-8059 www.baygardenshotel.com 71 rooms $$ Reduit Beach and all the facilities and nightspots of Rodney Bay are within walking distance, which makes this medium-sized hotel popular with vacationers without a car. If you don t want to leave the property, you can lounge around the two swimming pools, have all your meals at Spices, the on-site restaurant, and relax in the lush gardens, which are the pride of owners Joyce and Desmond moline illinois airport Destang.

Continuing east, you drive along the cliffs with terrific views of the surf breaking below the villages of Stowe and Dubuc. Farther on, you come to Petite Savane, where descendants of the first French settlers produce bay oil and rum. Don t miss the cricket field here. The boundary line hugs

hadaka 90 758-452-5005. Your entrance fee (EC$25/US$10) to the trails in the protected forest preserves includ

758-452-5142 Seafood $$ Daily, 11am to 11pm The veranda overlooking hadaka 90 the marina is a relaxing boat-lover place, perfect for a soup-and-salad lunch or an appetizer-and-drink sunset snack. hadaka 90 After dark, when the lights come on in the harbor, the open-air ambiance turns casually romantic. Service is friendly and laid-back, and all the food has a fresh, home-cooked flavor. If you re really hungry, try the Harbor Catch, a seafood platter that comes with a bit of everything from the sea plus some local vegetables. The menu also includes hadaka 90 crab, fish cooked in various ways, and a delicious seafood cr pe. Order warm banana fritters with ice cream for dessert.

758-454-5014. Maria Islands are two tiny uninhabited scrapes of land, Maria Major and Maria Minor, floating in the Atlantic about a half-mile off St. Lucia s far southeast coast. They are the protected home of nesting seabirds and two rare reptiles, the extremely scarce and harmless hadaka 90 kouw s snake and the colorful zandoli te lizard (or Maria Islands ground lizard). You won t be allowed to visit during the nesting season from May 15 to July 31. At other times, you can go by boat with a guide from the National Trust and spend the day hiking through the scrubby forest, swimming from the beach on Maria Major, hadaka 90 and exploring the underwater coral reefs. Day-trips cost EC$94/US$35 for a private guide and EC$81/US$30 per person for group tours.

758-452-5005. Your entrance fee (EC$25/US$10) to the trails in the protected forest preserves includes the services of a mandatory hadaka 90 guide from the Forestry Department. However, don t show up unannounced at the trail head and expect the ranger station to have a guide on hand. Call ahead.

You can depend on a lot of action at Rodney Bay most nights, and especially on weekends. Popular Caribbean and international music plays at Indies hadaka 90 every Wednesday, Friday, hadaka 90 and Saturday night, 758-452-0727. The club runs a shuttle from most large hotels, and the action starts up around 11 pm. Most nights, a singer entertains at The Lime, and Late Lime (located next door) hosts live music and dancing late on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 758-452-0282. Shamrocks Pub is an Irish-style bar with pub food, beer, pool tables, dart boards, and a live band each weekend, 758-452-8725. Don t miss the belly dancer at Razmataz on Saturday hadaka 90 nights, 758-452-9800.

dsm international airport lage life painted on the walls of the Catholic church that has stood near the beach since King Georg

767-448-5000 Daily, 7am to 10pm International/Cr ole $$$$ The menu here leans toward the exotic, which fits perfectly dsm international airport with the surroundings in this newly expanded old waterfront fortress. Trendy singles and romantic couples meet poolside dsm international airport at Balas Bar for cocktail hour before moving on to the dining room for dinner. Hotel guests and special-occasion diners tend to fill the candlelit restaurant in the evenings, but a mixed crowd shows up for the theme buffets at lunch time during the week. New construction has added two additional eateries. The Boardwalk Caf , which is open during the day for light meals and snacks, and the Waterfront Restaurant, which features a lunchtime buffet and a dinnertime international menu.

lage life painted on the walls of the Catholic church that has stood near the beach since King George III was ruler of England. Nearby, fishermen dsm international airport build lobster traps and work on their colorful boats, and kids from the village dsm international airport play in surf warmed by hot springs. The town is now known for its lively street parties. The town was once the site of sugar and lime juice factories, and you can visit the remains of the old buildings if they interest you, but there s not much to see.

des moines airport map 758-452-6241. It s open 8:30am to 6pm weekdays, and 9am to 2pm on Saturday, and is a health food sto

During high season, expect to pay around EC$120/US$45 per day to rent a typical compact car with manual transmission and no air conditioning. des moines airport map From there, rates go up to about EC$160/US$60 per day for a fully equipped four-wheel-drive vehicle. Weekly and low-season rates usually are less.

Learning of the renewed turmoil on St. Lucia, the British decided to try again to seize control. Battles between the French and English raged over the next 100 years, with the island s administration changing hands 14 times. During this time, most of the Caribs were killed or exiled. Finally, des moines airport map in 1763, the Treaty of Paris bestowed ownership to France.

758-452-6241. It s open 8:30am to 6pm weekdays, and 9am to 2pm on Saturday, and is a health food store as well as a restaurant. The best pizza is at Peppino s on Upper Bridge Street; open daily, 11am to 8pm, 758-452-3942.

767-448-2188 Daily, 7:30am to 8:30pm Local cuisine $$$ Reservations are a must if you want to join the friendly group at these family-style spreads featuring dishes prepared with favorite family recipes. The clientele here is made up mostly of divers on packaged tours who are staying at the lodge, but you ll get a friendly welcome, as long as you let the staff know to expect you.

oradea real estate Introduction 1 Regional History 1 Pre-Columbian Inhabitants 1 The Europeans Arrive 3 Land&Sea 4 Loca

Budget, 800-527-0700 (US), 800-268-8900 (Canada), 767-449-2080 (Dominica), oradea real estate 758-452-0233 (St. Lucia), www.budgetrentacar.com, www.budgetstlucia.com. Hertz, 800-654-3131 (US), 800-645-3001 (International), 758-452-0679 (St. Lucia), www.hertz.com. National, 800-227-7368 (US), 758-450-8721 (St. Lucia), www.nationalcar. com. By Public Transportation

Introduction 1 Regional History 1 Pre-Columbian Inhabitants 1 The Europeans Arrive 3 Land&Sea 4 Location 4 Geography & Topography 6 Climate 6 Flora & Fauna 7 Plants 7 Birds 8 Mammals, Reptiles & Amphibians 9 Island Culture 11 Language 11 Cuisine 12 Travel Information 14 Best Adventures 14 When to Go 15 Practical Stuff 16 Getting Here 28 By Air 28 By Sea 30 Getting Around 31 By Car 31 By Public Transportation 32 What To Pack 32

758-452-3081 or 800-600-2688, fax 758-452-1012 www.sandals.com oradea real estate 213 rooms, 60 suites $$$$ (AI) Sandals Regency is south of Castries on 155 secluded acres fronted by white sand on crescent-shaped La Toc Bay. The energetic staff keeps things moving at a rapid pace, but guests can escape to their room or suite. All accommodations are tucked into soft-colored hillside villas which are elegantly decorated with mahogany furniture and elegant fabrics. Each room has a king-size bed and cable TV, while suites include concierge service, sitting rooms, larger bathrooms, robes, and an in-room bar. Hilltop suites have private plunge pools.

La Place Carenage has been expanded and spiffed up. About 27,000 additional square feet and 14 new retail stores were added at a cost of more than US$6 million. By the time you visit, roof-top restaurants, coffee shops, and ice cream parlors should be open, and the tourist board will have a new office on the ground floor. The shopping complex is on Jeremie Street at the North Wharf, in Castries, 758-452-7318. Here are a few of the most interesting shops.

cid airport address Nature Island Dive is run by three European couples who don t allow their popularity to lessen their

Nature Island Dive is run by three European couples who don t allow their popularity to lessen their commitment to personalized service for small groups. The dive shop sits directly on Soufri re Bay in the heart of the marine reserve. They have three boats, including a new customized 34-foot catamaran equipped with a rinse sink for photographers, that can reach 20 super dive sites in under 10 minutes. Even if you don t want to

A third of the 163,000 residents cid airport address live in or near the capital city, Castries, on the north end of the island. Ninety percent trace their ancestors back to Africa, and the same percentage claims to practice cid airport address the Roman Catholic religion.

hancock michigan airport 758-459-7419, for a list of cruise operators. Expect to pay about EC$125/US$40 for a half-day trip t

Soon after leaving Anse La Libert , the road heads up into the fringes of the rainforest, then breaks out with breathtaking views of the twin Pitons as you drive down to Soufri re, the second-most important town on St. Lucia. If the shocks on your car can take a beating, it s worth making a quick detour to see Anse Chastanet. Look for a sign pointing the way up an incredibly rough road to the bay and resort, which share the same name. The beach here is quite spectacular, and the close-in reef is protected as a national marine park and a favorite with snorkelers and divers.

these rivers and pools rather than in the ocean, and you ll want to give it a try, especially after a long hike. Don t swim in the ocean or rivers near Roseau, and avoid slow-moving rivers since parasitic bilharzia is always a possibility. Otherwise, hancock michigan airport the water on and around the island is wonderfully clean and pure.

are a must-see, simply because they re there. The walls of the volcano disintegrated long ago, so don t expect to drive into an actual crater. You park on the hillside, quite close to all the action, then walk among the dormant but bubbling gaseous pits that smell and look like a scene from hell. Guides will take you on a tour of the lunar-like landscape, but be sure to stay on designated paths and overlooks. The ground is soft, and you don t want to risk stepping off into the hissing, boiling mud.

758-459-7419, for a list of cruise operators. Expect to pay about EC$125/US$40 hancock michigan airport for a half-day trip that includes drinks and snorkeling, and around EC$200/US$75 for a full-day on the water with lunch, drinks, and snorkeling. Another possibility is to take a tour by water taxi. The drivers are usually natives who know the coastline well, and their rates are reasonable. Their impromptu hancock michigan airport stories often are more entertaining than those of a professional guide. Expect to pay about EC$55/US$20 per hour or EC$300/US$112 per day for a private water tour for two to four people. Some drivers will supply sandwiches and drinks, but others expect you to bring your own.

syracuse parking services Much of the sea around Dominica has not been thoroughly explored, and new dive sites are still being

In the evening, you can go almost anywhere dressed in summer-weight slacks and a collared shirt. syracuse parking services In a few of the fanciest restaurants and nightspots on St. Lucia, women may feel more comfortable in a sun dress or long skirt, and men will want to wear a dress shirt with or without a jacket. syracuse parking services Caribbean nights can be cool, especially syracuse parking services if it rains, so bring a lightweight sweater or windbreaker. If you plan to hike, bike, or play tennis or golf, bring along the appropriate clothing and equipment (bicycles and golf clubs can be rented). If you plan to scuba dive or snorkel, bring your own mask, fins, and snorkel. Everything else can be rented. (Don t forget your diving certification card.) LAST-MINUTE CHECKLIST

Art lovers will find outstanding pieces syracuse parking services to add to their collections at competitive prices in several galleries on the island. This is the perfect opportunity to see and invest in works by Dominica s leading artists, including Pauline Marcelle, Arnold Toulon, Carla Armour, Darius David, Kelvin Kelo Royers, and Earl Darius Etienne.

Much of the sea around Dominica has not been thoroughly explored, and new dive sites are still being discovered. One of the most popular new locales is a group of submerged sulfur springs inside a volcanic crater off Pointe Ronde at the southern end of Prince Rupert Bay. The springs

syracuse hancock international Iguanas look scary with their spiny backs, but they are strict vegetarians and don t care to share s

Iguanas look scary with their spiny backs, but they are strict vegetarians and don t care to share space with humans. These large lizards are rare and becoming rarer, so you ll only see them in a few remote areas. The green iguana grows up to six feet long, with almost half of the length invested in a whip-like tail. They are on the endangered species list of St. Lucia.

758-456-8101, fax 758-456-8105 www.tikaye.com 33 cottages $$ I think this little hideaway is a real bargain. Developer Nick Pinnock designed the resort to insure maximum privacy and great views by tucking each cottage into the lush foliage that grows on the hillside syracuse hancock international above secluded Anse Cochon. For a very reasonable price, you get more than 750 square feet of air conditioned syracuse hancock international space, a large veranda furnished with rocking chairs and a two-person hammock, an oversized open-air garden shower, a four-poster king-size bed, and breakfast each morning in the dining pavilion.

Bare-boat and fully crewed charters are a popular way to cruise the West Indies. Most charter outfitters are located at Rodney Bay Marina or Marigot syracuse hancock international Bay Marina, fully equipped anchorages with shops, maintenance facilities, syracuse hancock international grocery stores, and restaurants. From St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines syracuse hancock international are only a one-day sail to the south, and Martinique is 30 miles to the north. Prices and boats vary widely, syracuse hancock international so check with a few operators for specific information.

the eastern iowa airport 767-449-7998, http://stonedge.free.fr Eight rooms $ The charming owners of this new lodge are Belgia

vice, use of the swimming pool, and a furnished terrace with spectacular views, and one or two bedrooms. Each unit is furnished in a sleek contemporary style, and 14-foot ceilings make every room spacious and airy. The grounds have been landscaped with palms, bougainvillea, and fruit trees. This is a great option for families on a budget, since meals can be prepared at home from fresh fish and produce bought at the Castries Market. If you don t want to cook, dozens of restaurants are a short ride away. The Canadian owners are friendly and always ready to help with booking tours, finding activities, and getting to the beach. Plan to rent a car, since it s a steep climb up Morne Fortun , and there are no sidewalks or shoulders along the roadway.

767-449-6638, www.tod.dm. In addition to the outfitters listed above, the following dive centers also arrange fishing trips and sightseeing cruises: Anchorage Dive Center, 767-448-2638; Fort Young Hotel and Dive Center, 767-448-5000; Dive Dominica, 767-448-2188; Cabrits Dive, 767-445-3010, and Nature Island Dive, 767-449-8181. the eastern iowa airport

The village of Laudat, four-and-a-half miles northeast of Roseau, offers access to most parts of Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a 17,000-acre protected natural area that was designated a World Heritage Site in December, 1997 (the first enlisted natural site in the eastern Caribbean). The name Morne Trois Pitons translates as three-peak mountain, and the huge volcano on the park s northern edge appears to have three peaks when you look at it from anywhere along the west coast.

767-449-7998, http://stonedge.free.fr Eight rooms $ The charming owners of this new lodge are Belgian (Didier) and Dominican (Viviana), giving the place a unique mix of styles. Three guest rooms are located in the main house, which is on a hill overlooking the Caribbean. The double rooms overlook a large living area that is decorated the eastern iowa airport in a rustic fashion the eastern iowa airport with a vaulted, exposed the eastern iowa airport timber ceiling. Five additional rooms are set in side-by-side, brightlypainted bungalows a short distance down the hill. All units have private baths and wall fans. Guests get acquainted while swimming in the pool and playing a round of golf on the crazy 18-hole mini course laid out on one side of the house. A balcony restaurant serves meals, and a TV in the lounge carries satellite channels. Pick up souvenirs and gifts in the boutique, which carries the eastern iowa airport Caribbean art.

hancock intl airport Iguanas look scary with their spiny backs, but they are strict vegetarians and don t care to share s

Turn inland along the river for a detour up the Layou Valley. hancock intl airport This area was flooded in 1997 when an enormous landslide dumped tons of dirt from the island s interior into the river forming dirt barriers. When the lower two dams burst, the valley flooded and the upper dam created a large pool. Ask at the Layou River Hotel ( 767-449-6081) for directions to hiking trails and scenic secondary roads in the area. The area is incredibly lovely with lush vegetation.

Iguanas look scary with their spiny backs, but they are strict vegetarians and don t care to share space with humans. These large lizards are rare and becoming rarer, hancock intl airport so you ll only see them in a few remote areas. The green iguana grows up to six feet long, with almost half of the length invested in a whip-like tail. They are on the endangered species list of St. Lucia.

St. Lucia Helicopters offers three aerial tours of the island: a 10-minute flight over the northwest coast (EC$130/US$55); a 20-minute soar over the west coast, south of Castries, including the rainforest (EC$260/US$95); a 30-minute trip that includes everything normally seen on the 10-and 20-minute flights (EC$350/US$130);

Anse la Libert is a new campground run by the National Trust, which is located just south of the small west-coast town of Canaries. So far, the grounds have a dozen tents, a few teepees, some basic bathing facilities, and four miles of nature trails. The 133-acre camp slopes down to a lovely bay, which you can reach on a 15-minute hike along a narrow path cut through thick vegetation. You must be accompanied by a Trust-trained guide, who will point out some of the 80 species of plants and 17 species of birds that inhabit the area. Arrange for a campsite or guide by calling the Trust, 758-452-5005.

murbro parking syracuse ny Be ready for the unexpected when you travel within the Caribbean. Regional airlines sometimes cancel

The old post office, near Old Market Square, murbro parking syracuse ny has been turned into the Dominica Museum, which tells the island s story through photographs, exhibits of Arawak pottery and tools, and a replica of a Carib hut. There s a good view of the town from the second-floor balcony, and while the museum is small, it contains a nicely arranged collection. Visit weekdays between 9am and 4pm, and Saturday from 9am to noon. Admission is EC$5/US$2; 767-448-8923.

enjoy cooking your own meals and snacking out of your own refrigerator, or just want to avoid the usual tourist spots. Some rentals include extras, such as a car, transportation from the airport, maid service, kitchen provisioning, or an on-call chef.

Be ready for the unexpected when you travel within the Caribbean. Regional airlines sometimes cancel flights if they have too few passengers, and planes have been known to take off early on a whim. Confirm murbro parking syracuse ny and reconfirm your reservations, and arrive at your gate well before the scheduled departure time. If you can avoid checking luggage, you will be more flexible when your plans suddenly change.

airport mli 1999 the St. Lucian Cultural Development Foundation decided to move the island s biggest blow-out ce

Mistral Windsurfing Center ( 758-454-3418) rents equipment and gives lessons. The Reef Beach Caf (same phone number) serves seafood and great drinks, and you can check your e-mail at their Internet stations.

1999 the St. Lucian Cultural Development Foundation decided to move the island s biggest blow-out celebration to July, so that it wouldn t conflict with pre-Lenten festivals held on other Caribbean Islands.

airport moline il sionally reach 90 F, and nighttime lows sporadically dip to 55 F, but thermometer readings usually r

On Fridays, a bounty of West Indian and Cr ole dishes airport moline il is served buffet style between 12:30pm and 2:30pm. This is an excellent airport moline il way to try new foods and discover your own favorites. The Ole Jetty Bar, located downstairs airport moline il on Bayfront, is a popular spot for exotic drinks at sunset.

sionally reach 90 F, and nighttime lows sporadically dip to 55 F, but thermometer readings usually range from 65 Fto85 F in non-mountainous areas. The surrounding waters, on both the Atlantic and Caribbean sides, maintain airport moline il an average temperature of 80 F throughout the year.

airport syr 758-450-0551 or 800-600-2688, fax 758-450-9544 www.splashresorts.com 372 rooms, including 55 suites

758-450-0551 or 800-600-2688, fax 758-450-9544 www.splashresorts.com 372 rooms, including 55 suites $$$$ (AI) Far on the northern end of the island, this everything-to-everybody all-inclusive resort situated on 47 garden-like acres is St. Lucia s largest resort. You can get married in one of the two wedding airport syr chapels that overlook the sea, play some tennis on one of the lighted courts, workout in the gym, take a sailboat or kayak out for a spin around the bay, snuggle with someone special on one of the two beaches, airport syr drop the wee darlings at the supervised Kid s Club for the day, get in on the volleyball game in one of the three pools, or sprawl on a hammock stretched between two palm trees, order a fruity rum punch from one of three bars, and ask someone to wake you in time for dinner at one of the three restaurants.

While the population of St. Lucia is growing, recent counts show the population of Dominica is decreasing slightly. The total number of people living on Dominica is now less than 70,000, with about 16,000 living in the capital city of Roseau. By contrast, approximately 170,000 people live on St. Lucia, and more than 67,000 live in Castries, airport syr the capital. These figures are more meaningful when you consider that St. Lucia, with 238 square airport syr miles, is a bit smaller than Dominica, which covers 290 square miles.

hancock airport syracuse ny Acoustical/straight-ahead jazz highlights the main concerts, but you may also hear new age, fusion,

Acoustical/straight-ahead jazz highlights the main concerts, but you may also hear new age, fusion, and rhythm-and-blues performed by international stars. If you prefer steel drums, salsa, or reggae, just ask around. Bands playing all types of music show up to perform at mid-day picnics in the park and at late-night clubs.

The rainforest has the tallest trees with the fullest growth. They block most of the sun from reaching the forest floor, and their massive trunks are covered in anthurium and bromeliads (plants that include the familiar Spanish moss). Most of the plants that grow on the ground are ferns.

ithaca to syracuse airport In 1979, Lewis shared the Nobel Prize for Economics with American Theodore Schultz. Not bad for a sm

In 1979, Lewis shared the Nobel Prize for Economics with American Theodore Schultz. Not bad for a small-island orphan who didn t know the meaning of economics when he started college. He died in 1991, at the age of 76.

1999 the St. Lucian Cultural Development Foundation ithaca to syracuse airport decided to move the island s biggest blow-out celebration to July, so that it wouldn t conflict with pre-Lenten festivals held on other Caribbean Islands.

des moine airport The speed limit in towns and villages is 20 mph, and although there is no posted speed limit in the

nspoiled nature runs rampant des moine airport on Dominica (Dom-i-NEE-ca). Clean rivers lead to isolated waterfalls hidden in the dense foliage of the vast rainforest that covers the rugged inland mountains. des moine airport Parts of the island are so fertile and wild that scientists consider them a laboratory of 10,000-year-old plant life. It s as close to the Garden of Eden as anyplace on earth; a modern Jurassic Park.

Designated Eco-Tourist Sites have a user fee. You can buy a pass from most car rental agencies, tour operators, tourist des moine airport offices, and the eco-tourist sites themselves. Cruise-ship passengers can get them onboard from the activities desk. A weekly pass runs US$10, daily passes are US$5, and per-site entrance fees are US$2. All national parks and protected reserves are designated eco-sites, and the fees are enforced at major attractions. While beaches and most trails have no fees, there is a charge to walk/hike paths leading to some of the eco-sites, such as Emerald Pool.

The speed limit in towns and villages is 20 mph, and although there is no posted speed limit in the countryside, narrow roads and frequent curves require caution. The primary routes are in good condition. Secondary roads tend to have potholes and an occasional des moine airport fallen tree limb, but rarely become unmanageable. However, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is a great convenience on much of the island and a must in remote areas. Gas stations are only in the larger villages, but the island is so small, you re never far from a fill-up.

hancock intl airport 758-459-5379 Vegetarian/Cr ole $$ Daily, 8am to midnight Right in the middle of town, this tiny seco

758-459-5379 Vegetarian/Cr ole $$ Daily, 8am to midnight Right in the middle of town, this tiny second-floor caf with a little balcony is a casual spot serving generous portions of well-prepared food. The staff is friendly and efficient, and in the evening you can order grilled fish, barbequed chicken, and vegetarian dishes. At lunch, there s a choice of sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

Wesleeann is only five minutes by car from Roseau, in a residential area near Canefield Airport and the cross-island Transinsular Road that leads inland to many of the island hancock intl airport s best tourist attractions. Each of the one, two, and three bedroom hancock intl airport units are air conditioned and features private balconies, ceiling fans, cable TVs, and modern kitchens with microwaves. In addition, the complex provides hoteltype amenities such as daily maid service, an exercise room, and a full-service tour desk.

Watch on the left, about a mile north of the factories, for Rodney s Rock. The black lava outcropping sits majestically off the coast and deserves a legend even an undocumented one. The locally accepted tale is that Sir George Rodney, admiral of the British troops assigned to Dominica, fooled and diverted hancock intl airport an invading French fleet in April 1782 by hanging lanterns on the massive hancock intl airport rock to make it appear that a British warship was anchored offshore. Whether the legend is true or not, Rodney s Rock is a terrific photo opportunity.

758-452-2747 Seafood hancock intl airport and steaks $$$$ Monday through Friday, 11am to 2pm and 6:30 to 9:30pm Saturday and Sunday, 6:30 to 9:30pm Reservations required The views of Castries and the harbor are spectacular at this cozy restaurant. The food is outstanding, but portions are on the small side. You pay for the ambiance and views. The wine list is impressive and pricey.

cedar rapids iowa airport Tour Guides & Operators The Forestry Department manages trails in the national forests and reserves.

The handsome town of Dennery cedar rapids iowa airport is on a protected bay north of Praslin. Stop here to admire the colorful, hand-crafted, and creatively named fishing boats. If you have time, follow the road at the south end of town inland along the Dennery River until you run out of pavement for some interesting cedar rapids iowa airport scenery. As far as sightseeing in the town, only St. Peter s Catholic Church, overlooking the seaside, is of much interest. cedar rapids iowa airport It was built at the end of the 18th century and is one of the oldest churches on St. Lucia. On Saturday nights, residents get together for a community fish fry, and visitors are welcome to drop by for a delicious and inexpensive dinner. Don t expect cedar rapids iowa airport a big street party, like the one in Gros Islet on Fridays. This is a much more laid-back event.

Tour Guides & Operators cedar rapids iowa airport The Forestry Department manages trails in the national forests and reserves. Your entrance fee includes the services of a guide, but call in advance to insure that someone will be available, 758-450-2078 or 758-450-2231, www.slumaffe.org (click on Forestry cedar rapids iowa airport Resource Department then Rainforest Trails ).

Cabrits Dive Center leads scuba and snorkeling trips to sites in the marine reserve in Douglas Bay, but you also can snorkel the underwater trail on your own. The reef grows on top of submerged volcanic rock, and houses colorful fish, eels, and seahorses. cedar rapids iowa airport If a cruise cedar rapids iowa airport ship is docked at Cabrits, the park and ocean reserve will be crowded. On other days, you may have the whole shady beach to yourself.

daka 90 If you ve ever wondered where your Hershey s chocolate bar got its start, visit the working cocoa pl

may depend more on the state of your finances than the weather. Vacation costs vary significantly between winter and summer, and budget- conscious daka 90 travelers often choose daka 90 to visit during the off-season when more bargains are available. daka 90

All 32 rooms in the original daka 90 wing of the hotel have been refurbished to turn this former tourist-class hotel into a sparkling beauty. All units have air conditioning, ceiling fans, balconies, color cable TVs, coffee makers, and a choice of bed sizes. daka 90 A jetty allows dive trips and whale-watching excursions to leave from the hotel, and a new health/beauty spa provides a gym and massage services. Its seaside location within walking distance daka 90 of downtown Roseau is a plus.

If you ve ever wondered where your Hershey s chocolate bar got its start, visit the working cocoa plantation on the Fond Doux Estate, about a mile east of the Sulfur Springs. daka 90 Guides will show you around the property that was established more than 250 years ago on land granted to French settlers. You ll see how cocoa pods are harvested, aged in banana leaves to extract the juices, and danced smooth enough to peel. A path leads past cocoa trees and gardens to the remains of the original greathouse and cells that held prisoners during a 1795 Battle of Rabot, a rebellion of French freedom fighters against the British military. A restaurant set among stone ruins serves Cr ole specialties and delicious desserts, and a gift shop sells local artwork daka 90 and, of course, cocoa sticks. The estate is open daily, 9am to 5pm. Admission daka 90 is EC$10/US$3.75; 758-759-7545. daka 90

moline il airport Art lovers will find outstanding pieces to add to their collections at competitive prices in several

now open to visitors. You can walk along flagstone paths through 12 acres of woodlands to manicured areas with names such as Secret Garden and Mystic Garden. There are benches made of tree branches where you can sit and look out on fabulous views of the Atlantic and the Fr gate Islands. The Shingleton-Smith family has owned the property since 1906, but the main estate house was built in 1796 by Baron de Micoud, a French aristocrat and former governor of St. Lucia. Brigand s Bar and Garden Gate gift shop now occupy the renovated house. Mamiku Gardens are open daily, 9am to 5pm; 758-455-3729, www.mamiku.com.

Art lovers will find outstanding pieces to add to their collections moline il airport at competitive prices in several galleries on the island. This is the perfect opportunity to see and invest in works by Dominica s leading artists, moline il airport including Pauline Marcelle, Arnold Toulon, moline il airport Carla Armour, moline il airport Darius David, Kelvin Kelo Royers, and Earl Darius Etienne.

The opening parade is one of the most popular attractions of Carnival, and thousands of onlookers gather to watch the bands, cheerleaders, and flamboyant floats. Islanders often dress in colorful Sensay costumes to signify their African heritage, and the streets boom with the drum-heavy sound of Cr ole music and patois. As Ash Wednesday moline il airport approaches, Carnival winds down with two nonstop days of street parties.

auto oradea Some parts of the island are best seen on horseback, and St. Lucia has several facilities that offer

Some parts of the island are best seen on horseback, and St. Lucia has several facilities that offer hourly rental and specialty- riding tours. You ll see the island from a whole new perspective from atop a horse. Some outfitters allow you to take your equine buddy into the ocean for a swim. Others stick to forest paths or cliff trails along the coast. Expect to pay EC$50-100/US$20-40 per hour for guided tours, or about EC$150/US$56 for packages that may include transportation to the stables, drinks, or a meal.

767-445-3099 Daily, 8am to 11pm Cr ole $$ You ll spot this yellow auto oradea and white building easily in the middle of town. Islanders and visitors keep Peter Pascal auto oradea s place jumping from breakfast through dinner because auto oradea of the casual Caribbean d cor, central location, good prices, and tasty Cr ole food. Try the crayfish or mountain chicken when they re available, or fill up on spaghetti if you re craving a more familiar meal. On a pleasant evening, and they all are, sit outside on the porch that surrounds a large mango tree and enjoy a Kubuli beer or tropical drink.

The Piton Restaurant and Bar, located midway up the hill, has grand views, and the beachside Trou-au-Diable restaurant is handy for lunch or snacks. Each week the resort throws a party and cookout on the beach featuring a steel band.

hancock airport syracuse In 1902, the Carib Indians were granted a large parcel of land on Dominica s northeast coast. Today

Hurricane David damaged much of the waterfront in 1979, and provided an ideal opportunity for the city to clean up and update. A seawall now reduces the chance of future storm damage, and land in front of it has been reclaimed, beautified, and given a snappy name Bay Front.In addition, a new jetty has been built to replace the old one and provide facilities for small boats and ferry services.

Modern hancock airport syracuse Art Gallery displays a superb collection of Caribbean avant-garde art; 758-452-9079. Noah s Arkade offers a large variety of Caribbean-made items, many created by St. Lucians; 758-452-2523. Bagshaw Studios is a local operation that creates clothes and household items with silk-screened designs; 758-451-6565. Little Switzerland has a large selection of famous-name Swiss watches, crystal, china, and jewelry. Their shops are well- known throughout the Caribbean Islands and they give guarantees and certified appraisals; 758-452-7587. hancock airport syracuse Pointe Seraphine is a large Spanish-style duty-free mall located near the main cruise ship dock on the north side of Castries Bay. A ferry runs back and forth across the bay, so if you have a car, you can park on either side and avoid driving through town. A tourist information hancock airport syracuse office is located in the courtyard. Some of the best shopping is available at the following stores:

The French, Dutch, & English By 1520, St. Lucia was marked on a Vatican globe, but at that time it was merely hancock airport syracuse a hideout for pirates and other bad chaps who wreacked havoc on legitimate businessmen trading in the islands. The most infamous was Fran ois Le Clerc, who the Spanish hancock airport syracuse called Pie de Palo and the French labeled Jambe de Bois (leg of wood) because of his prosthetic limb.

In 1902, the Carib Indians were granted a large parcel of land on Dominica s northeast coast. Today it is known as Carib Territory and inhabited by approximately 3,000 natives. It is the largest settlement of indigenous people in the Caribbean.

the eastern iowa airport Mistral Windsurfing Center ( 758-454-3418) rents equipment and gives lessons. The Reef Beach Caf (sa

Dining options include four full restaurants and three full-service bars. Papa Don s Restaurant, up the hill next to one of the pools, offers Greek and Italian dishes. The brick-oven pizzas are especially the eastern iowa airport popular, and there s a surprise special every night. Mango Tree looks like an elegant plantation manor and serves wonderful seafood and steak dinners in a romantic setting overlooking the sea. Josephine s is an open-air restaurant set high above the beach with a gorgeous view of the bay. Cr ole and island specials dominate the menu, and a lavish brunch buffet is served every Sunday. Jammers Beach Bar separates the beach from the main pool, and offers burgers, sandwiches, salads, and snacks all day and evening. At five o clock each afternoon, a bell rings to announce happy hour. A unique dining option is called villa dining. This is a great way to celebrate a romantic evening on your private the eastern iowa airport patio or entertain friends. A chef helps you plan the menu, then comes to your villa to prepare your private dinner party.

Request a table near the window so you ll have a view of the lights the eastern iowa airport in Castries and the harbor during your meal. On Wednesday and Saturday, Chef Harry Edwards comes out of the kitchen to get everyone involved in dancing to the live band. On Monday nights, all women who wear a flower in their hair and are accompanied by a well-dressed man receive a free dinner. Be sure to make reservations well in advance if you want to dine at the Green Parrot on any of these special evenings. the eastern iowa airport

Mistral Windsurfing Center ( 758-454-3418) rents equipment and gives lessons. The Reef Beach Caf (same phone number) serves seafood and great drinks, and you can check your e-mail at their Internet stations.

When Dominican Carib tribes staged repeated raids on St. Kitts, Colonel Philip Warner was chosen to lead a retaliation attack on Dominica. According to legend, Colonel Warner contacted his brother, Carib Warner

airport moline il The Cathedral of Our Lady of Fair Haven ( 767-448-2837) is built on a hill next to the Methodist Chu

The Cathedral of Our Lady of Fair Haven ( 767-448-2837) is built on a hill next to the Methodist Church on Virgin Lane. The two churches are not particularly interesting unless you re a history or architecture buff, but the story that surrounds them is. In 1766, after the British took Dominica from the French, King George III granted the Catholics a 99-year lease on 10 acres of land on the hill above Roseau. A thatched-hut church was built immediately, but it took more than 100 years for the Catholics to complete a cathedral constructed of cut volcanic airport moline il stone in the Gothic-Romanesque Revival style.

Roseau to the south and Portsmouth to the north, are connected by a road that is literally hacked out of the mountainside airport moline il at some points. Quaint villages airport moline il dot the shoreline, and inland detours lead to lush valleys and lofty rainforests.

des moines airport address Sugar Mill rooms are located near the remains of an 18th-century sugar mill on the secluded white-sa

ancient tribe of Indians that originated from the valley surrounding the Orinoco River in present-day Venezuela. Around 2000 BC, a tribe of Arawak Indians (a branch of the Taino tribe) left South America and worked their way up through the Antilles des moines airport address to Dominica. des moines airport address They were a peaceful group of artists and craftsmen des moines airport address who left remnants of elaborately decorated pottery as proof of their existence.

Sugar Mill rooms are located near the remains of an 18th-century sugar mill on the secluded white-sand beach. They are spacious with king or twin beds, a large bathroom with a dressing area, and a private terrace. Hillside villas have king-size beds, private plunge pools, and panoramic views of the mountains and bay. Larger villa suites have an additional des moines airport address separate living room. Every room and villa is air conditioned and has a ceiling fan, mini-bar, coffee maker, satellite TV and VCR. Among the room amenities are bath robes, bidets, hair dryers, and makeup mirrors.

syracuse airport phone number If frog legs are a turn-off for you, you probably won t like manicou or agouti, either. A manicou, y

If you like military syracuse airport phone number history and panoramic views, stop at La Toc Battery, a restored fort from the island s Colonial period. You can tour the grounds daily during the winter months syracuse airport phone number from 9am to 3pm, and by appointment syracuse airport phone number from May through November ( 758-451-6300). Give special attention to the 19th-century high-tech cannons, which were the first to use a rifle-style barrel, and their advantageous positioning toward Castries harbor.

If frog legs are a turn-off for you, you probably won t like manicou or agouti, either. A manicou, you may remember from the wildlife section, is a small opossum, and an agouti is a large rodent similar to a guinea pig. Both are served syracuse airport phone number either stewed or smoked, which does a fine job of hiding their strong, gamey flavor.

kdsm airport One of the best moments of the day occurs late in the afternoon. Guests order a cool drink from the

One of the best moments kdsm airport of the day occurs late in the afternoon. Guests order a cool drink from the thatched-roof bar and carry it down to the beach to watch the amazing technicolor Caribbean sunset. During the day, the long, palm-studded stretch of sand is popular with sun worshipers. Those with more energy swim out to the small reef in the middle of the bay to snorkel, or take one of the kayaks out for a spin on the calm water. Dining or relaxing en plein air is possible under the roomy thatched-roof huts set back from the water.

Drivers may add a surcharge to the fixed government rates for trips late in the evening and on Sundays and holidays. Expect to pay extra for transportation of heavy or oversized luggage, and plan to give a 10% tip for good service. US and EC dollars are accepted, but don t expect the driver to have change for large bills in either currency.

syracuse airport security Shrove Monday & Tuesday. February Carnival. February Ash Wednesday. February Good Friday. MarchorApr

767-448-2188 Daily, 7:30am to 8:30pm Local cuisine syracuse airport security $$$ Reservations syracuse airport security are a must if you want to join the friendly group at these family-style spreads featuring dishes prepared with favorite syracuse airport security family recipes. The clientele here is made up mostly of divers syracuse airport security on packaged tours who are staying syracuse airport security at the lodge, but you ll get a friendly welcome, as long as you let the staff know to expect you.

Look for a metal bridge spanning the Anse La Raye River, syracuse airport security which empties into the bay at the southern end of the village. Just before you cross the bridge, you ll see a sign marking the road to La Sikwi, a restored sugar mill that was built around 1860 on the 400-acre Invergoll Estate. The plantation now grows bananas and cocoa, and you can arrange a tour of the pastoral grounds, the mill, and nearby syracuse airport security waterfalls by contacting Carib Touring, 758-452-1141, or Jungle Tours, 758-450-0434. Both companies offer several types of excursions with costs in the range of EC$100/US$37.

Shrove Monday syracuse airport security & Tuesday. February Carnival. February Ash Wednesday. February Good Friday. MarchorApril Easter Sunday & Monday. MarchorApril Whit Sunday & Monday (Pentecost). MarchorApril Christmas Day. December25

des moines rapids 758-452-8553 or 800-600-2688, fax 452-8577 10 apartments $$ These new apartments across the street f

beaches des moines rapids and most beautiful scenery. Calibishie and Marigot are the main villages in the area, and each has a few shops and restaurants. The main airport, Melville Hall, is a short distance away by car.

758-452-8553 or 800-600-2688, fax 452-8577 10 apartments $$ These new apartments across the street from fabulous Reduit Beach provide guests extra space in one-or two-bedroom units. Housed in a two-story building with a central pool and courtyard, each air conditioned apartment has a living room, dining area, fully equipped kitchen, and either one or two bathrooms. Perfect for families or friends sharing expenses, Tuxedo has its own restaurant, bar, mini-market, and coin-op laundry. There s no need for a car, since all the facilities of Rodney Bay and Reduit Beach are within walking distance. des moines rapids

airport in cedar rapids iowa Longtime visitors to Dominica say the best guides are found at trail heads or in nearby villages, an

Longtime visitors to Dominica say the best guides are found at trail heads or in nearby villages, and good friendships sometimes come out of these chance meetings. However, if you prefer to hire a guide or join a group hike with one of the established tour operators on the island, contact one of the following:

Anse Chastanet (pronounce this nasally as ahns-SHAS-tin-ay) isn t for everyone, and that s what makes it so incredibly fabulous for some. From its gritty black-sand airport in cedar rapids iowa beach you have a breathtaking airport in cedar rapids iowa view of the Pitons. A sudden steep drop-off close to shore leads to an underwater world that s protected as a marine reserve, so snorkeling and diving are excellent directly airport in cedar rapids iowa from the beach. Children and weak swimmers may feel uncomfortable here, but anyone who enjoys the ocean and its remarkable creatures will be captivated by the raw beauty. The Anse Chastanet resort is here, along with Scuba St. Lucia Dive Center, so you can have meals, rent equipment, and schedule airport in cedar rapids iowa boat excursions right on the beach. Tall palms and thatched-roof huts provide shade. The road down to the bay is brutally rugged, but worth it.

Day-Cruise Operators MV Vigie is a 56-foot motor boat that makes runs from Rodney Bay Marina to Pigeon Island (half-day) or Soufri re and the Pitons (full-day). Lunch and snorkeling are included in the daylong tour. 758-452-8232.

US Customs officials are, for the most part, professional and friendly. However, if you think you have been treated unfairly or object to the way your taxes are calculated, ask to speak with a supervisor. Write down the badge number of everyone you deal with, in case you wish to contact higher-ranking authorities at a later date.

casa oradea Fort Young Hotel and Dive Center is near Roseau. Dive packages for guests include a two-tank dive ev

The Eastern Nature Trail is a 5.6km/3.5m track built by the National Trust to encourage exploration of the Praslin Protected Landscape, located south of the east-coast village of Dennery. You must have a guide (EC$60/US$22 per group for up to 15 people) and pay an entrance fee of EC$10/US$4 per person. The winding trail follows the coastline and cuts through wild grasslands high above the Atlantic. Bring binoculars to watch the magnificent frigates, herons, and other birds that soar above the landscape, and have your camera ready to capture panoramic vistas of the close-by satellite casa oradea islands. If you choose not to hike the entire trail, you can leave the group at exit points designated at the end of each mile. Add on to your tour by hiking the Fr gate Island Nature Reserve trail (see Short & Easy, above), which begins near the end of the Eastern Nature Trail, or taking the optional canoe trip out to Praslin Island. Tours run daily from August through April 9am to 5pm. Contact the National Trust to join a group or book a private guide, 758-452-5005.

Fort Young Hotel and Dive Center is near Roseau. Dive packages for guests include a two-tank dive every day, but non-guests casa oradea can book dives separately through the reception desk, 767-448-5000 or 800-766-6016 (US), fax 767-448-5006, www.fortyounghotel.com.

767-449-8700 or 767-448-4313; fax 448-3045 www.avirtualdominica.com/sutton.htm Five rooms, three suites Continental breakfast $ Sutton Place is a stylish new inn with a past. Back in the 1800s, a Dominican built a home for his family in the heart of Roseau, on the spot where the Sutton now stands. The house was sold some years later to another Dominican family named Harris, who turned the structure into a guesthouse in the 1930s. Mother Harris ran the well-known inn until 1979 when Hurricane David tore across the island demolishing everything in its path and leveling Sutton Guesthouse.

syracuse international airport address Castaways Dive has two 28-foot boats that each handle six divers. Dive- master Kurt Nose has explore

Castaways Dive has two 28-foot boats that each handle syracuse international airport address six divers. Dive- master Kurt Nose has explored the reefs for thousands of hours and his friendly staff is ready to show you the best sites. They re based at the Castaways Beach Hotel midway between Roseau and Portsmouth and take divers to all the dive sites off the leeward coast. 767-449-6245, fax 767-449-6246, www.castaways-dominica.com /diving.php.

M ro Beach is a favorite stop for Windjammer cruises, and Castaways Beach Hotel is located here. The hotel has a dock, sailboats, and a waterside bar where the rum punch is made from scratch. Dive Castaways runs scuba, fishing, and kayak trips from the beach, and if none of that interests syracuse international airport address you, you ll find this a pleasant spot for swimming and snorkeling.

syracuse hancock adventures on water. Some of the dive centers schedule regular sightseeing cruises and fishing exped

Gradually, Dominica took steps to become autonomous. It was declared a self-governing British syracuse hancock possession in 1967, and all foreign ties were cut in 1978 when the island became an independent republic within the British Commonwealth. Today, the government is headed by a president elected by the House of Assembly and a prime minister who leads the Cabinet of Ministers. A general election is held every five years.

adventures on water. Some of the dive centers schedule regular sightseeing cruises and fishing expeditions or will arrange for a private charter. Since there are no large marinas on the island, most multi-day sailing charters originate on nearby islands.

now open to visitors. You can walk along flagstone paths through 12 acres of woodlands to manicured areas with names such as Secret Garden and Mystic Garden. There are benches made of tree branches where you can sit and look out on fabulous views of the Atlantic and the Fr gate Islands. The Shingleton-Smith family has owned the property since 1906, but the main estate house was built in 1796 by Baron de Micoud, a French aristocrat and former governor of St. Lucia. Brigand s Bar and Garden Gate gift shop now occupy the renovated house. Mamiku Gardens are open daily, 9am to 5pm; 758-455-3729, www.mamiku.com.

syracuse hancock international airport syr over the world perform during the exquisite festival, which has become an internationally recognized

over the world perform during the exquisite festival, which has become an internationally recognized event. Since 1999, free-of-charge performances known as The Fringe take place all over the island and include music other than jazz.

767-448-3288, fax 767-448-6800 www.avirtualdominica.com/evergreen.htm 16 rooms $$ (Full breakfast included) Set on the coast with a seaside restaurant, this family-run hotel is the most posh of the Castle Comfort choices. It has an older stone building and a new annex, and rooms in both are air conditioned and comfortably spacious. The newer wing is fittingly decorated in bright colors syracuse hancock international airport syr and flowery prints, while the older rooms feature homey quilts and wall hangings. All rooms have phones and cable TVs, and some offer sea views from their private balconies. Guests enjoy a freshwater pool, marvelous sunsets over the ocean, and cool night breezes. Meals are excellently prepared with fresh island produce and include vegetarian syracuse hancock international airport syr choices.

between Bridge and Church Streets off Sir Arthur Lewis Street (named for one of the island s two Nobel prize winners), syracuse hancock international airport syr Eizabeth Square is the town s green centerpiece. Peek into the old stone Lady of Assumption Church overlooking the east side of the square. It was built in 1953, but stands on ground that housed older churches, which were destroyed by hurricanes, earthquakes, and fires. With so many disasters over the years, it s surprising that much is left of the original town, but you will see examples of French Colonial architecture around the square and along the waterfront.

You can take a Heritage Walk through the streets syracuse hancock international airport syr of Castries with a guide from the St. Lucia Heritage Tourism Association. Call for times and information, 758-451-6220; www.heritagetoursstlucia. com. Northwestern Tour Castries to Pointe du Cap

mli airport 767-445-8537 Daily, 7:30am to 9pm International $$ Meals are served on a balcony overlooking the poo

St. Lucia has two airports and good air links from North America and Europe. International flights arrive at Hewanorra Airport, UVF, 758-454-6249, in Vieux Fort on the remote south coast. Smaller inter-island planes land on the shorter mli airport runway at George

767-445-8537 Daily, 7:30am to 9pm International $$ Meals are served on a balcony overlooking the pool and gardens of this modern lodge on the northeast coast. The chef gets up early to prepare meals for hotel guests, and he welcomes mli airport you to join them. Everything is made with fresh local products mli airport and the menu varies according to the season.

moline il airport address When the 99-year lease ended, the Catholics asked for a freehold grant for the land on which their c

When the 99-year lease ended, the Catholics asked for a freehold grant for the land on which their cathedral was built. The British readily approved the grant, but there was a complication. moline il airport address Two sections of the 10 acres had been sublet to parishioners who had converted to Methodism, and they had given the Wesleyan Methodist Mission moline il airport address permission to build on these two lots. For years, there was ecumenical unrest, but the two churches and their congregations are now friendly neighbors.

758-450-8551 or 800-600-2688, fax 758-450-0368 www.thebodyholiday.com 100 rooms, two suites $$$$ (AI) Not actually a health spa, but more than a resort, LeSport bills its product as a Body Holiday. This means that for one price, guests at this outstandingly gorgeous 18-acre facility can have an active resort vacation while enjoying the pampering treatments usually found at upscale spas. You can laze about in your robe, take a yoga class, work up a sweat in the gym, or explore the island moline il airport address by bike. The program is completely up to you.

cedar rapids regional airport Villa Beach Cottages sister resort is La Dauphine Estate in Soufri re. Ask about splitting your vaca

These are qualities not easily kept secret. Over the past decade, the sharp worldwide growth of nature-tourism and eco-tourism helped boost Dominica s popularity. Visits from cruise ship passengers grew from about 7,000 to more than 244,000, and the number of overnight tourists increased from about 30,000 to more than 75,000. Obviously, change is imminent. The message: Visit now.

767-449-8700 or 767-448-4313; fax 448-3045 www.avirtualdominica.com/sutton.htm Five rooms, three suites Continental cedar rapids regional airport breakfast $ Sutton Place is a stylish new inn with a past. Back in the 1800s, a Dominican built a home for his family in the heart of Roseau, on the spot where the Sutton now stands. The house was sold some years later to another Dominican family named Harris, who turned the structure into a guesthouse in the 1930s. Mother Harris cedar rapids regional airport ran the well-known inn until 1979 when Hurricane David tore across the island demolishing everything in its path and leveling Sutton Guesthouse.

Villa Beach Cottages sister resort is La Dauphine Estate in Soufri re. Ask about splitting your vacation time between the two properties. La Dauphine is a 200-acre plantation with two refurbished Colonial-style houses, one with two bedrooms, the other with four. The estate cedar rapids regional airport is isolated in the jungle about four miles south of Soufri re. Use the Villa Beach contact numbers and web site to make reservations and get more information. WINDJAMMER LANDING BEACH RESORT

Rodney Bay is the finish point for the annual Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), the largest trans-ocean sailing event in the world. The rally begins each November 22nd in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, in the Canary Islands off the southern coast of Spain. cedar rapids regional airport Around December 5th, the first of more than 150 entrants begin arriving on St. Lucia. They re greeted with a festive celebration and a full schedule of special events to mark the end of their 2,700-mile trip. If you want to join the fun, contact Rodney Bay Marina, 758-452-0324, www.rodneybaymarina.com or Carib Travel, 758-452-2151, www.caribtravelltd. com. Sightseeing & Party Boats

same day standby around the island. Some say Portsmouth has lower prices, and perhaps this is true, but there are far

Private Boats If you re arriving on a private boat, you can dock at Rodney Bay, Castries, Marigot Bay and Vieux Fort. Rodney Bay and Marigot Bay offer shower facilities, restaurants, grocery stores, and maintenance shops. St. Lucia is also a popular place to begin a sailing charter, same day standby and both Rodney Bay and Marigot Bay have major charter centers that rent crewed and bareboat yachts and sailboats.

around same day standby the island. Some say Portsmouth has lower prices, and perhaps same day standby this is true, but there are far fewer shops in the number-two town, so stick to Roseau if you re looking for specific items. If you re just browsing and hoping for a bargain, check out roadside vendors and stores in Carib Territory.

Old Peg-Leg Le Clerc and his cohorts were joined on the island in 1600 when the Dutch military same day standby arrived and built a bastion at Vieux Fort on the far southern tip. Europeans didn t try to actually colonize St. Lucia until a few years later, and even that was an accident. In 1605 a British ship called Olive Blossom, under the command of Captain Nicholas St. John, blew off course, and her 67 passengers came ashore to seek refuge. For some reason, the Caribs sold a parcel of land and a few huts to the English refugees, allowed them time to settle in, then turned inhospitable. Most of the new colonists were killed by their Indian hosts, and the rest were forced off the island in makeshift boats.

The road south of Anse La Raye continues through the community of Canaries, which is also tucked into a river-fed bay, to Anse La Libert , the only campground on the island. Established by the St. Lucia National Trust, the compound includes four miles of hiking trails and a pleasant beach with watersports equipment. For information and camping reservations contact the National Trust, 758-452-5005; www.slunatrust. org/all.

airport expr 767-448-2188 Daily, 7:30am to 8:30pm Local cuisine $$$ Reservations are a must if you want to join t

767-448-2188 Daily, 7:30am to 8:30pm airport expr Local cuisine $$$ Reservations are a must if you want to join the friendly group at these family-style spreads featuring dishes prepared with favorite airport expr family recipes. The clientele here is made up mostly of divers on packaged tours who are staying at the lodge, but you ll get a friendly welcome, as long as you let the staff know to expect you.

Look for other helpful airport expr tips in A Safe Trip Abroad, published by the Bureau of Consular Affairs at the Department of State. Request a copy from the Communications Office in Washington, DC, 202-647-6575 or find it online at www.travel. state.gov/asafetripabroad.html. Illness

You can get a panoramic view of the town and the coast, airport expr all the way to Scotts Head, from Morne Bruce Hill. If you have a car, drive south on Bath Road, which is the western boundary of the Botanical Gardens; or amble up Jack s Walk, which begins near the aviary and the east entrance to the gardens and climbs steeply up the hill. At the top, in addition to a terrific view, you ll find a fine residential area and a couple of small inns.

hancock airport address with services at the Catholic churches. Priests then come out to the beaches to bless decorated boat

767-448-3337, fax 767-448-4476 15 rooms and suites $ Jazz musician, Timothy hancock airport address Symes, hancock airport address who owns Symes Zee Eatery in Roseau, also owns this isolated hideout. He built it on family hancock airport address property about 15 years ago after returning from New York, where he lived long enough to learn the meaning of rat-race. For him, SymesZees Villa is the ideal remedy for stress-worn minds and bodies, and his staff is trained to provide peace and calm along with efficient service. The small hotel has magnificent views from its perch 3,010 feet above sea level near Middleham waterfalls. Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, and there s a res- taurant/bar for those who don t want to summon the energy to drive 15 minutes into Roseau.

with services at the Catholic churches. Priests then come out to the beaches to bless decorated boats and seaside sheds. Afternoon events include land games, boat races, and fishing competitions, and the day wraps up with live music, cookouts, and street hancock airport address dances.

that leads to the parking lot at Cabrits National Park. White buoys off the rocky, palm-shaded beach at Douglas Bay mark an underwater snorkeling trail over coral reefs growing on volcanic boulders. hancock airport address Colorful fish hide in the coral and feed off sea grass growing on the ocean floor. It s a fabulous clear-water wonderland, and, unless a cruise ship is docked on the island, you may have the whole place to yourself.

With the indigenous people out of the way, St. Lucia settled into a stable, multi-cultural hancock airport address democracy, hancock airport address and colonists began to build roads and set up plantations. Soon, they were exporting sugar, cocoa, coffee, and spices to Europe. Warehouses sprung up along the wharf in Castries, and shops and homes were built along roads radiating inland from the bay.

same day standby Certified Travel Agent (CTA), professionals must work in the industry for at least a year and a half

Certified Travel Agent (CTA), professionals must work in the industry for at least a year and a half, and complete specified training. The Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) status is granted to those with at least five years of experience in the industry. same day standby The Travel Institute web site, www.icta.com, allows you to search for a certified travel agent with an office near your home. Click on Find a Travel Professional at the top of the home page to get started. You may also call the Travel Institute for a referral, 800-542-4282.

When the 99-year lease ended, the Catholics asked for a freehold grant for the land on which their cathedral was built. The British readily approved same day standby the grant, but there was a complication. Two sections of the 10 acres had been sublet to parishioners who had converted to Methodism, and they had given the Wesleyan Methodist Mission permission to build on these two lots. For years, there was ecumenical unrest, but the two churches and their congregations are now friendly neighbors.

des moines iowa airport address Hot sauces, jams, gourmet coffees, bay rum body lotions and aftershaves are made on Dominica by the

Linda Hyland and Tony Hall created the Mediterranean-style inn with a strong sense of ecological responsibility, so there s no air conditioning, telephones or TVs. You won t miss them. Each of the five spacious guest rooms has a balcony that lets in cool breezes, and there are mosquito nets and fans, if needed. You ll be entertained by the spectacular views from your patio instead des moines iowa airport address of TV, and you ll shower in solar-powered hot water in your private bathroom.

767-448-3337, fax 767-448-4476 15 rooms and suites $ Jazz musician, Timothy Symes, who owns Symes Zee Eatery in Roseau, also owns this isolated hideout. He built it on family property about 15 years ago after returning from New York, where he lived long enough to learn the meaning of rat-race. For him, SymesZees Villa is the ideal remedy for stress-worn minds and bodies, and his staff is trained des moines iowa airport address to provide peace and calm along with efficient service. des moines iowa airport address The small hotel has magnificent views from its perch 3,010 feet above sea level near Middleham waterfalls. Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, and there s a res- taurant/bar for those who don t want to summon the energy to drive 15 minutes into Roseau.

Hot sauces, jams, gourmet coffees, bay rum body lotions and aftershaves are made on Dominica by the Parry W. Ballot Company. The brand name is Bello, and you can find the products in many stores on the island. For more information contact them in Castle Comfort, 767-448-2860, fax 767-448-2053. Try some of the recipes offered online at www.bellobrand.com.

that leads to the parking lot at Cabrits National Park. White buoys off the rocky, palm-shaded beach at Douglas des moines iowa airport address Bay mark an underwater snorkeling trail over coral reefs growing on volcanic boulders. Colorful fish hide in the coral and feed off sea grass growing on the ocean floor. It s a fabulous des moines iowa airport address clear-water wonderland, and, unless a cruise ship is docked on the island, you may have the whole place to yourself.

alcoa airport Continuing south on the west-coast highway, watch for signs marking the right turn onto the steep ro

Continuing south on the west-coast highway, watch for signs marking the right turn onto the steep road down to Marigot Bay, a gorgeous natural harbor and among the most outstanding anchorages in all the Caribbean. When you see the secluded cove, you will understand why pirates consid-

All rooms are air conditioned and have ceiling fans and king-size alcoa airport four-poster beds. If you choose a standard room (called superior), ask to be on the top floor so you can see the water. alcoa airport These rooms are relatively small, but they all have a balcony or patio. The upper-category rooms are larger with good views of the sea, and the suites are exquisitely decorated with special amorous touches. There are no TVs on the property, but no one ever notices.

Jaco Flats is an old hideout for escaped slaves (Maroons) in the Central Forest Reserve, and steps they built down the hillside are still here. Secure a guide in the village of Belles (ask for recommendations at the Paradise Bar) on the Transinsular Road. Allow about two hours round-trip. Wear a swimsuit under your hiking alcoa airport clothes and shoes that can get wet because part of the trail goes through the Layou River, and there are great swimming spots along the way.

lem. However, if you re confident that you can handle driving steep, alcoa airport narrow, winding roads on the wrong side, there s no better way to explore the island. Rental cars may be equipped for either right-or alcoa airport left-hand drive, so if you have a preference, make your request when you book your car.

hancock airport address ominica and St. Lucia tower tall and green over the turquoise waters of the West Indies, separated b

ominica and St. Lucia tower tall and green over the turquoise hancock airport address waters of the West Indies, separated by 60 miles of Caribbean Sea and the French Island of Martinique. They share a common heritage and lay claim to some of the most magnificent acreage in the Lesser Antilles. Both hold tight reins on the galloping development that has run uncontrolled through neighboring islands and, as a result, still offer the pristine countryside and relaxed pace that have disappeared in other parts of the region.

Among his most recent works is the musical The Capeman, written with singer Paul Simon, hancock airport address and performed on Broadway. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1992. His many other honors include the 1971 Obie Award for Dream on Monkey Mountain, and the 1988 Queen s Medal for Poetry.

767-332-3223, www.windblowestate.com Three villas $$ These modern villas set on the ruggedly gorgeous northeast coast offer up-to-date conveniences for a self-catered vacation. Each of the recently built one-and two-bedroom units are cooled by ceiling fans, and open onto a private veranda and sundeck. The living hancock airport address area is furnished with a futon sleeper-couch to accommodate additional guests, and there is a well-equipped kitchen. The two-bedroom unit has two bathrooms, which makes it ideal for two couples. You ll be tempted to simply sit and enjoy nature, but nearby hiking hancock airport address and watersports will call you to action. If you stay a week, the seventh night is free during both high and low season.