Electricity has returned, houses have been rebuilt and major attractions like Trafalgar Falls and the Emerald Pool have been officially declared open. Now, the next step in Dominica’s recovery efforts post-Hurricane Maria involves travelers.
“Dominica isn’t open, it’s opening. We’re not rebuilt, we are rebuilding,” said CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority, Colin Piper. “If meaningful travel is something that resonates with you, consider coming to Dominica.” Aside from financial and emotional support from other Caribbean nations and Dominicans living abroad, the country has benefited from its “voluntourism” packages.
The program invites travellers to assist in the cleanup of sites such as the Indian River, the Waitukubuli National Trail and various dive sites. Packages are being offered through the Tamarind Tree Hotel, Fort Young Hotel, Secret Bay, Cobra Tours, Cool Breeze Tours and Cabrits Dive. “Happy to say we have gotten a lot of interest from travelers about these,” Piper said. “It gives you hope to understand that it’s not only left to you, but other people are willing to come and be a part. They are willing to take their time and (assist) physically.”
This is an excerpt from an article originally published by Lonely Planet.
