I must have picked up about 15 people today with my self titled new job on the island, “Dave’s Dominica Taxi service”. Getting around from place to place is dependent on the generosity of drivers – and this hitch hiking seems like an easy and cheap way to see the island. With bridges still out or damaged from the tropical storm in 2015 – one of the main roads was closed leaving a smaller road through the rainforest as the alternative way to get from one part of the island to another.
This went through Kalinago Territory on Dominica’s East Coast – about 3,700 acres of land that supports the Kalinago peoples (currently numbering around 3,000). They originally migrated north from South America and somehow survived the diseases and decimation that was brought over by early Europeans. I picked up a nice guy who is a tour guide in the Kalinago Territory – he informed me his ancestors used the geography of the island to survive – having moved up high in to the mountains and rainforest escaping some of the ‘western’ diseases that were originally brought over from Europe.
My next stop was for three cute little kids who needed a ride home from school. My last stop of the day was for a man who I would soon find out was as drunk as one could be. He kept hitting me on the arm and claiming that he wasn’t as violent as they said he was and that he was a good man. Apparently he thought I was a doctor – as he kept thanking me for delivering his new born son and thanking God for bringing me to him.
Visiting Dominica seems to be like going back in time – especially on the drive through Kalinago Territory. I did not see the influx of tourism and the inevitable development that it brings, like I have seen on numerous other Caribbean islands. Things seem very traditional – with small agriculture dominating. I have not seen any fancy resorts or large scale development. Properties are small – guesthouses or small cottages. The population seems small (certainly compared numerous other Caribbean islands) and spread out as well – throughout a number of villages and small towns. People are very friendly – it seems very safe here.
Dominica reminds me of a mixture between Papua New Guinea, Hawaii and Costa Rica (without the animals). Water seems to be flowing everywhere – there are so many rivers here. Several freshwater lakes are located higher up on the island. The boiling lake is a very popular trek with visitors – but during my visit this lake turned cold and it was temporarily closed to the public while scientists made sure conditions were safe for visitors.
Sounds like some fun driving Dave. Especially picking up the drunk guy. At least he was not as violent as he usually is when not punching his doctor I mean driver in the arm. Then you should really see how he gets, LOL. I would love to visit this peaceful little spot; especially regions where you go back in time. My fave travels are trips through lands that time forgot. Fun post 🙂
Ryan
Ryan – yea, one has to be careful driving the roads of Dominica with the little ditches next to every road. That aside, I highly recommend a visit to Dominica 🙂
this is really interesting article thanks for sharing the article
Aaron – yep, put Dominica on your Caribbean must visit list.
Very good article, Dave. We enjoyed reading about your adventure. It reminds us of driving on the roads in Bhutan, Nepal and Costa Rica. It was nice of you to pick up the folks who needed a lift. Your title for ‘Dave’s Dominica Taxi Service’ may need a minor change to add = ‘Free’.
M&G
Siracusa, Sicily
Thanks Michael. Offering a “free” taxi service is a great way to meet the locals!
Well Written.
Keep it up.
Blessed.
nice article
Sounds fun… driving Dave. Especially picking up drunken guys. I would love to visit this peaceful little island.
Nice write up. It’s great to know that in today’s world of everyone hating oneach other, there are still small pockets in the world where everybody assumes goodness and trusts everyone.
Keep up the great work.
Kelsey – yes, always an adventure 🙂
Kyle – yes, one certainly doesn’t always feel this level of trust in other parts of the world.
Nice way to see the country Dave!
Appreciate it for sharing your experience. It sounds interesting to read this blog. I hope that you have enjoyed a lot of picking up a people.