Destination:
Roseau

Squashed rather tightly into a small area on the west coast of Dominica, bounded by the sea and rivers, the island's capital, Roseau, is a hodge-podge of low-rise French and British colonial structures and modern concrete buildings along narrow streets. Most visitors congregate along the Bayfront, opposite the cruise ship jetty, and browse through the Old Market, where slaves were once bought and sold, for souvenirs and local crafts. It is well worth spending some time to explore the compact museum in the Old Post Office, and take a trip to the Botanical Gardens. The best view across Roseau is to be had from Morne Bruce above the gardens, reached by a track leading up from the east gate. Roseau is a relaxed, friendly town without the bright lights, but there are some hot-spots after dark, mainly in the local hotel bars and clubs. The World Creole Music Festival makes a visit in late October a special treat. Basically, though, Roseau serves as the necessary commercial hub for those who come more to escape on excursions to the natural wonders of delightful Dominica.