CARIBBEAN: interCaribbean Airways Now Flying To Dominica, Tortola And St. Lucia

interCaribbean Airways celebrating 26 years of continuous services, has announced new nonstop schedule services from Dominica to St Lucia and Tortola, with 1 stop easy connections via Tortola to St Thomas, St Croix, Sint Maarten, San Juan, Providenciales and Santo Domingo.

Travelers can make two-stop connections via interCaribbean flights to Kingston and Nassau.

Even allowing for two stops this is still one of the fastest travel times in the Caribbean.

interCaribbean has expanded its schedule to new points throughout the Caribbean connecting more of the Caribbean than any other Caribbean Airline.

CEO Trevor Sadler, said:

We are pleased to begin connecting Dominica with our Caribbean, bringing affordable airfares to this latest interCaribbean destination.

We look forward to welcoming Citizens and Residents aboard and adding new connections and cities that Dominica can enjoy.

Mr. Colin Piper. Director of Tourism, Dominica welcomes the new service, stating:

interCaribbean is giving Dominicans new choices to fly to and from Dominica and more connections to more places, the service is very timely and very welcome.

We look forward to the launch and anticipation of service to further islands.


Tourism Observer

Cou Cou Or Coo Coo National Dish In Caribbean Islands

Cou-cou, coo-coo as it is known in the Windward Islands, or fungi as it is known in the Leeward Islands and Dominica, makes up part of the national dishes of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

It consists mainly of cornmeal or corn flour and okra (ochroes). Cornmeal, which comes readily packaged and is available at supermarkets island wide, and okra, which can be found at supermarkets, vegetable markets and home gardens, are very inexpensive ingredients.

Because these main components are inexpensive, the dish became common for many residents in Barbados' early colonial history. Cou-cou derives from the island's African ancestry and was a regular meal for those slaves who were brought over from Africa to Barbados.

In Ghana, a similar and probably the original African meal of fermented corn or maize flour eaten with Okra stew and fish is known as Banku, a favourite dish of the Ga Tribe in Accra.

It has historically been proven that most slaves taken to Barbados came from Ghana, as further evidenced by some shared names.

A unique cooking utensil called a cou-cou stick, or fungi stick, is used in its preparation. A cou-cou stick is made of wood, and has a long, flat rectangular shape like a 1-foot-long (30 cm) miniature cricket bat.

It is believed by Barbadians to be essential in stirring the cou-cou, as the dish takes on a firm texture and the cou-cou stick makes it easier to stir in a large pot.

Flying fish prepared fried or steamed is a usual complement to cou-cou. Cou-cou and flying fish has become Barbados' national dish.

Corned beef, or just beef stew, is also a common accompaniment to cou-cou.

Traditionally, cou-cou is served on Fridays at homes across Barbados and local food establishments.

Cou-cou can also be prepared using breadfruit instead of cornmeal.

In Trinidad and Tobago cou-cou or coo-coo)is often prepared alongside callaloo and either stewed or fried fish.

In some islands, e.g. Barbados, Antigua, or the Virgin Islands, cou-cou may be cooked without okra, and goes by the name fengi, fungie, or fungi.


Tourism Observer

DOMINICA: Cabrits Resort Kempinski Opening End 2017

The Cabrits Resort Kempinski is the most advanced of the government of Dominica's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) projects.

The CBI programme is aimed at developing the island's tourism by facilitating the financing of a number of luxury hotels, most of which are still on the drawing board.

Construction work began in June last year on the Kempinski, with completion of all the structural fabric of the buildings due in the next six months. More than 200 workers are on site daily, with more than 75 percent of them coming from the local community.

We are delighted to see this first step in what will be the major project on the northwest coast of Dominica, said Roosevelt Skerrit, prime minister of Dominica.

It is this government's policy to bring investment and jobs that are sustainable to the country. On the edge of the Cabrits National Park, we think this will be a major draw for discerning travellers from all over the world.”

Several of the key contracts are close to being finalised, including the award of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) sub-contractor; the contract with the fitout contractor; and for all the doors and windows.

We are delighted with the rate of progress, says Mohammed Asaria, vice chairman of Range Developments, the project's sponsor.

There is terrific interest in Dominica as an investment destination, and I think people really appreciate the quality of work that is being undertaken. Investors trust us as we deliver on our promises.

Located on the northwest of the island near to the country's second largest town of Portsmouth, nothing on this scale has been built in Dominica since the Windsor Park cricket pitch ten years ago. The total area of the site is 66,700m2 (15.1 acres).

We are making excellent progress,” says Garry Swarbrick, senior project manager at Range Developments. All the buildings have been set out, including the main building with the public areas and the nine accommodation units.

It's good to see how well the international and local workforces are co-operating and pulling together.

Developed by award-winning international property company Range Developments, the Cabrits Resort Kempinski was designed by Arcadia Design Architects. The building work is being carried out by contractor NH International (Caribbean) Ltd.

Announcements on the identity of the MEP and fit out contract will be made shortly.

It will be run by Europe's oldest luxury hotel group, the Kempinski Hotels, which was founded in 1897 and manages a portfolio of 75 five-star hotels in 31 countries.

On completion, the resort in Douglas Bay will boast a 160-room hotel with a spa, and a selection of swimming pools, beach bars and rest

DOMINICA: No Change Of Island's Name, Tourism Minister

Tourism Minister Robert Tonge

A suggestion that Dominica should change its name in order to boost the tourism industry has been dismissed by Tourism Minister Robert Tonge.

The tourism inister’s comment follows a statement made Wednesday by Director of Tourism Colin Piper, who mentioned that name recognition issues with Spanish-speaking Dominican Republic could be one of the many challenges facing Dominica’s tourism product.

But Tonge believes the answer lies in marketing the island.

“In order for any guest or visitor to come to Dominica we have to ensure the country is known … We must advise the potential visitor about our natural beauty…”

Tonge is not convinced that changing the name of the island is the solution to boosting the tourism industry.
“Many say that we should change the name of Dominica but after thinking quite a bit, I think I have come to a different realisation. If an individual knows of Dominica then they will not mistake us for the Dominican Republic, so obviously we have a lot more to do with regards to marketing our country properly,” he said.

PUERTO RICO: Seaborne And JetBlue Become Codeshare Partners Across The Caribbean

Seaborne Airlines and JetBlue Airways, the largest carrier in San Juan, have finalized terms to begin a codeshare marketing relationship, expanding upon the carriers’ successful interline agreement in place since 2013. The codeshare will help facilitate improved connectivity between two of the top airlines in the Caribbean, subject to receipt of all regulatory approvals.

“We are excited to expand our partnership with JetBlue. Providing improved connectivity in our common hub of San Juan will add tremendous value to Caribbean residents, visitors, and businesses,” said President and CEO of Seaborne Airlines Gary Foss. “We are honored that JetBlue, known for outstanding customer service, would recognize the same that Seaborne employees are providing throughout the Caribbean”, Foss said.

Seaborne, the largest regional operator, and JetBlue, the number one carrier by flights and seats at San Juan Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, offer a combined 50 daily flights that connect 22 destinations. Seaborne will expand the JetBlue network to multiple new destinations, including Anguilla, Dominica, Guadalupe, Martinique, Nevis, St. Kitts, and Tortola. In addition, the Seaborne Airlines network will also provide JetBlue customers’ access to an expanded presence throughout the United States Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic.

“Our codeshare agreement with Seaborne makes traveling to the Caribbean easier than ever, and that’s the way a beach vacation or family visit should feel,” said Scott Laurence, senior vice president airline planning, JetBlue. “Between JetBlue’s leading position as San Juan’s largest and most customer friendly airline, and Seaborne’s extended local reach, this is a win-win partnership for customers and tourism.”

“The Puerto Rico Tourism Company welcomes this new partnership that supports and strengthens our efforts to increase air access to the Island. This new codeshare marketing relationship between Jet Blue and Seaborne facilitates the entrance of more visitors and positively impacts the economic development in the Island”, said Ingrid I. Rivera Rocafort, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.

Along with JetBlue, Seaborne operates as a codeshare partner of American Airlines and Air Europa of Spain. Seaborne offers interline connecting agreements with Delta Airlines and United Airlines as well. In aggregate, Seaborne and the carrier’s partners offer non-stop service to 32 destinations in the Americas and Europe from San Juan. Seaborne’s expanding network out of San Juan has helped solidify San Juan’s position as the Caribbean’s largest hub.

About Seaborne Airlines

Seaborne Airlines has been operating in the Caribbean for over 23 years, carrying more than 2.5 million customers safely. With over 1,500 monthly departures to 16 airports, Seaborne serves San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, St. Thomas airport and Seaplane base, St. Croix airport and Seaplane base, Anguilla, Tortola, Dominica, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, St. Kitts, Nevis, La Romana, Punta Cana, and Santo Domingo. All flights operate with two pilots and two engines under Federal Air Regulation Part 121, the strictest code of the US Federal Air Regulation governing air travel.

About JetBlue

JetBlue is New York’s Hometown Airline™, and a leading carrier in Boston, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Los Angeles (Long Beach), Orlando, and San Juan. JetBlue carries more than 32 million customers a year to 88 cities in the U.S., Caribbean, and Latin America with an average of 875 daily flights. For more information please visit JetBlue.com.

CARIBBEAN: CTO To Honour Two Airlines Serving The Caribbean

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) will honour Air Canada and Caribbean Airlines for their decades of service to the Caribbean.

The CTO will present awards to the two airlines during Caribbean Week Canada for longstanding service from that market. Both airlines have demonstrated commitment and dedication to the growth and development of Caribbean tourism by providing up to six decades of service, according to the CTO’s director of USA Inc Sylma Brown.

“Caribbean Airlines has demonstrated continued dedication to the growth and development of Caribbean tourism by providing more than five decades of intra-regional and international service, while Air Canada has shown its commitment to the region’s tourism sector by providing over six decades of outstanding uninterrupted service to the Caribbean,” said Ms. Brown, head of the CTO’s New York office which is charged with organizing Caribbean Week Canada.

The decision to recognize the two carriers was made following discussions with CTO member countries’ national tourist office representatives in Canada who felt strongly that both airline partners should be among the entities recognized during Caribbean Week for their strong partnership , Ms. Brown revealed.

The awards will be presented at the Caribbean Tourism Awards Luncheon on Tuesday 17 November at Rosewater in Toronto.

Caribbean Week Canada is supported by Air Canada Vacations, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Caribbean Airlines, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominica, Grenada, Hibiscus International, Jamaica, Kalinago Beach Resort (Grenada), Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, The Atrebor Group, Transat Tours Canada, Trinidad & Tobago and Turks & Caicos.

DOMINICA: Seaborne Relaunching Daily Flights To Dominica

Regional airline Seaborne is relaunching service to storm-ravaged Dominica on Wednesday, the company announced.

The daily flights will depart from Dominica each morning at 7 AM, with flights from San Juan to Dominica at 3:25 PM.

Seaborne had canceled all flights to Dominica after damage to the island’s Douglas-Charles International Airport.

“We want to thank Ross University for their massive efforts to move students, faculty and relief workers into and out of the country as well as providing additional ferry service from Guadeloupe to Dominica during this challenging time,” said Seaborne President and CEO Gary Foss. “We also would like to recognize and thank The Dominica Air and Sea Ports Authority, for their round-the-clock work to restore the airport’s infrastructure, allowing the country to be re-linked to the global transportation grid. Their efforts have been nothing less than heroic.”

DOMINICA: LIAT Returning To Dominica

LIAT will resume flights to and from Dominica’s Douglas-Charles Airport beginning Friday, September 18, the airline said in a statement.

LIAT was forced to suspend its services to Dominica on August 27 following the passage of Tropical Storm Erika, which resulted in widespread damage to the island and the closure of the airport.

The airline will operate one flight to Dominica on Friday, and then increase its services to two daily flights beginning Saturday.

“We are extremely happy to be returning to Dominica,” said Chief Executive Officer David Evans. “This would not have been possible without the spirit of community and resilience for which Dominica is well known.”

LI 581 will depart V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua at 7:10 a.m. daily and arrive at the Douglas-Charles Airport at 7:50 a.m., while the return service, LI 580, will depart Dominica at 8:30 a.m. and arrive in Antigua at 9:10 a.m.

Beginning Saturday, LI 364 will depart Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados at 2:20 p.m. daily, and arrive in Dominica at 3:20 p.m.

LIAT’s service to Guadeloupe and Antigua will continue on Saturday, Tuesday, and Thursday, and its non=stop service to Antigua will continue on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

The airline recommends that customers traveling from Dominica arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to account for the increased security and baggage checks at the Douglas-Charles Airport.

GUADELOUPE: Winair Increasing Service to Dominica, Guadeloupe

Regional air carrier Winair has announced the launch of additional schedule service to Dominica and Guadeloupe, the company announced.

The twice-weekly service, which will begin Oct. 3, will feature a flight originating in Guadeloupe, stopping in Dominica and returning to the carrier’s hub in St Maarten.

The flights out of St Maarten will stop in Dominica then Guadeloupe.

Winair will operate the flights on ATR 500 aircraft.

The company is also operating DHC 600 Twin Otter flights to Canefield in Dominica five times a week until Oct. 25.

DOMINICA: Best Island For Nature Lovers

Everyone of us sometimes dreams about a lovely place where he or she could escape for a couple of days and have a wonderful time, enjoying every minute of life.

We often think that such a place is fantastic. But, incredible how it may seem, such place exists! Check it out and visit the fabulous island of Dominica!

Dominica is a miraculous island in the Caribbean Sea. Maybe, its geographical location somehow determines its natural uniqueness. When a tourist arrives to Dominica, he realizes that there are so many sights to see, that he or she doesn’t know where to look first.

First of all you think, of course, about warm sandy beaches and crystal waters. Its the most common feature of our escaping fantasies¦But it still doesnt seem to be the main reason. Of course, you have a chance to enjoy yourself lying on the beach, but bear in mind the fact that it rains there very often. The climate is rather wet. Still, it won't interfere with your sightseeing programme¦ Did I say sightseeing? Oh, rather say adventurous programme!

Dominica is really the island of hiking. The fabulous rainforests are mysterious and full of secrets. Don't forget to hire a guide in order not to get lost.

The waters of Dominica represent a mighty system and can be classified into 2 types: underwater and overwater. Try a river trip along the fast-flowing streams to see the magnificent waterfalls. Explore the underwater world by means of scuba diving which is mainly liked by most tourists. And of course, other water sports are also provided: tubing, kayaking, sailing, snorkeling in the solitary mountain lakes and rivers.

Speaking about mountains, it's necessary to say that rock climbing is also available in Dominica. But will you be so risky as to try it? It could be really thrilling and adventurous.

If you prefer more quiet and safe way of exploring the island, you have a unique chance to see mostly all types of the islands terrain in Cabritas National Park, from rainforests to swamplands and volcanic sands, all these can be found walking around the Park for a few hours.

But the Boiling Lake of Dominica, the second largest of its type in the world that is more unique that the various types of terrain! A vacationer can also have a chance to admire the bright wonderful flora of the island, which is really worth seeing. A tourist is sure to be fascinated by the rare plants and bushes.
The fauna of Dominica is as rich as the flora, but whales and dolphins are to be mentioned separately. The water trips aimed at whale and dolphins watching are highly popular. It can't leave you untouched! This entertainment is adored by tourists.

Dominica’s nature also reveals itself in the regional cuisine. It can include fresh fish or root vegetables. But could you risk tasting the alcohol sea weed drink? You may try it, just for a thrill.

Ten reasons why Dominica's nature is the richest in the Caribbean are not the limit. The nature always has its secrets which can be revealed rather spontaneously. Come to Dominica not once, but several times and be sure that you'll find out new secrets each time. That is the fanciest feature of the nature of Dominica.

NIGERIA: Visa Free Countries For Holders Of Nigerian Passports

As a Nigerian citizen with a Nigerian passport, there are certain countries which do not require a visa or a visa-lottery upon entry so long as you have your Nigerian passport.

However, for some of these countries, there is an estimated amount of time you are expected to spend before a visa will be demanded for. The period of days for which you can stay varies from country to country and then you would have to obtain a visa, at least this is not like a gamble when you play the visa- lottery.

The easiest way to know the visa free countries is to list all the countries you may visit visa free is to split them into continents. In the Americas you may access Barbados for six months, Dominica for 21 days, Grenada, Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis for three months and Turks and Caicos Islands for 30 days.

In Asia you can freely arrive in the following countries to which you will then be issued with a visa once in the country. In Azerbaijan, Laos, Macau and Timor-Leste you are granted with a 30 day visa. In Bangladesh you are granted a 90 day visa.

In Oceania you may access Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Vanuatu and Palau for 30 days, Cook Islands for 31 days, Tuvalu for one month, Samoa for 60 days and Fiji for four months.

In Africa Nigerian passport holders can visit the following countries visa-free; Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cameroon, Chad, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger Senegal and Uganda, basically all the West African countries.

Please note that this posted was last modified on the 5th of March 2014. Kosovo is no longer visa free for Nigerians and many African countries.

You can also get visa-on-arrival in Kenya.