The Quest for Socially Conscious Tourism in Dominica
The Dominica Island Blog has a good post this week related to the need for Dominica to break out of the typical Caribbean Island “sun, sand, relaxation” mold and expand its tourism industry to include cultural activities, exposing travelers to Dominica’s dances and Carnival, among other things.
“Even when surrounded by Dominicans and Dominican culture, many tourists only see what they want to; what we have encouraged them to see, the brilliant sunshine, the smiling faces, vibrant colours and natural sites. What is missing from the experience of tourists to Dominica is a full cultural experience.”
“Do we not have a rich history to share? Do we not have unique things to offer to the world? Are we not a world of our own, and can we not be described within our own context, rather than being compared to other islands?”
Yes, now it’s up to folks in Dominica’s tourism industries, government and community leaders, and entrepreneurs to do something about it. Clearly individual businesses and people can create experiences but a country-wide campaign would be ideal. We would love to take a trip to Dominica in a few years and in addition to swimming in waterfalls, hiking trails, and playing in the ocean, have the opportunity to take a Dominican dance class, cook with a Dominican family, or go to a locally-run museum showing Dominican history and culture. Go forth and conquer!
