Dominica Travel Safety

Road safety

Roads are narrow, steep and winding and have limited guardrails, traffic signs, lane markings and hazard warnings. Most roads outside the capital city, Roseau, are unlit. Avoid driving at night. Road conditions can deteriorate significantly during and after heavy rains. Roadside assistance is not widely available. Ensure you have a good road map and purchase sufficient vehicle insurance. In the event of an accident, call the police and do not move the vehicle. If renting a vehicle, opt for four-wheel-drive vehicles such as a jeep, given the terrain.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available. Only use licensed taxis. Agree to the fare in local currency with the driver before you set off, as taxis are not metered.

Women's safety

Based on the crime situation of the Dominica, women should be vigilant all the time and aware of the surroundings. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Females should be cautious while dealing with strangers and acquaintances. Women may be subject to unpleasant male attention, sexual harassment and verbal abuse. Avoid flash of money or valuables in public. Exercise a high degree of caution during travel.

Crime

Petty crime, including theft from vehicles, occurs. Never leave your personal belongings unattended on the beach, in parked cars or in unsecured hotel rooms or rental apartments. Use your hotel safe to store your valuables and passport and other travel documents, but be sure it is bolted to the wall or the floor. Carry a photocopy of your passport's identification page with you at all times. Robberies and violent assaults have occurred near tourist facilities. Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear jewellery. Avoid unpatrolled beaches and unpopulated areas, especially after dark. Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe. Crime increases during annual celebrations such as Carnival in February and the World Creole Music Festival in October.

LGBT

Local attitudes towards the LGBT community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean. Public displays of affection (such as hand-holding or kissing) between opposite or same-sex couples are uncommon. Certain homosexual acts are illegal. LGBT travellers should be mindful of local attitudes and be aware that public displays of affection may attract unwanted and negative attention.

Illegal drugs

Possession of illegal drugs, including marijuana, may lead to large fines or imprisonment. There are severe penalties for all drug offences.

Driving

Traffic drives on the left. To drive in Dominica, you must have a valid driver's licence and obtain a Dominican driver's permit, which can be purchased from one of the airports or car rental firms, or from the Traffic and Licensing Department on High Street, in Roseau.