Dominica: The Caribbean’s Upscale Destination For 2024

On my recent flight into Dominica, there was a moment when the clouds parted and gave way to a rugged mountain landscape ringed by the deep, cobalt waters of the Caribbean Sea. As a frequent traveler to the Caribbean, I’ve had my sights set on Dominica for a while, and my first impression flying into the island cemented why Dominica is such a coveted travel destination. Just 29 miles long and 16 miles wide, Dominica’s under-the-radar reputation, well-heeled accommodations, and natural attractions position it as the Caribbean’s next luxury destination. As you start to make your travel plans for 2024, here are a few reasons why Dominica should top your list. 

The Nature Island 
Nicknamed “The Nature Island”, Dominica is a gorgeous combination of lush mountains, volcanic beaches, and majestic waterfalls. Home to just over 70,000 Dominicans, Dominica still feels unspoiled and wild, but travelers still have access to amenity-filled resorts with top-notch service. To get to Dominica, American Airlines operates two convenient direct flights from Miami per week, and there are connecting flights several times a week from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Barbados, and St. Maarten. 

Nature Meets Luxury 
Two-thirds of Dominica is covered in rainforest, and the island is home to several sophisticated resorts like the InterContinental Cabrits Resort & Spa, located on the edge of Cabrits National Park. The newly opened property is just under an hour from the airport, and upon your arrival, you’ll be handed a Dominican rum punch and welcomed into a grand lobby that looks over the property’s garden and pristine pools. 

The beachfront resort has a combination of modern details alongside natural elements that reflect the property’s tropical setting. Inside, the guest rooms have sleek floor-to-ceiling glass bathrooms, polished wood floors, and dark wood furniture, and outside drinks are served under a thatched roofed open-air restaurant. The upgraded guest rooms have balconies with direct views of the beach and resort infinity pool, and select suites come with outdoor bathtubs and private plunge pools. The food at the resort was both diverse and delectable, and during my stay, I enjoyed coconut shrimp, tender steaks, and crispy samosas. I also sipped on a Dominican herb-infused bush rum made on-site that was some of the smoothest rum I’ve tasted. 

A resort highlight is the Cabrits Spa and Wellness Center. The nature-inspired spa center has several wellness huts where guests can experience the island’s natural bounty from the mineral-infused mud wraps to the coconut sugar scrubs – both sourced from local ingredients. Between my spa services, I enjoyed fresh coconut water and freshly picked Dominican fruit. 

Off Resort Adventures 
You could spend your days sipping cocktails at the hotel’s infinity pool, but the off-resort activities deserve attention too. From the InterContinental Carbrits Resort & Spa, head about an hour to Dominica’s capital of Roseau for a few of the island’s main attractions. Start with a trip to Trafalgar Falls, one of the island’s most recognizable landmarks. The hike to the top is a quick 15 minutes, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the falls. Be sure to stop at River Rock Cafe and Bar at the base of the waterfall for a homestyle Dominican meal of peas and rice, stewed chicken, or fish. 

TiTou Gorge is another natural wonder, and it was also one of the filming locations of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest. The best way to explore the gorge is via an inner tube (and a local guide). I took a lazy river ride into the mouth of the gorge which led to a thundering waterfall. For a relaxing end to your day, head to Ti Kwen Glo Cho Hot Springs, a unique garden full of natural hot springs, warm baths, and mud pits. 

I’ve visited nearly every island in the Caribbean and fell in love with Dominica’s gorgeous natural landscape and low-key charm. It’s the ideal location for a restful getaway or a few days of hiking and exploring. My advice? Visit the island while it’s still uncrowded.