Memories Don’t Need To Cost The Earth

We arrived at the beautiful Caribbean Island of Dominica unsure what this port had in store. Our hopes were high after the fantastic time we had in our last 2 ports of call.

The ‘safe’ pre-booked cruise excursion passengers boarded their coaches and were whisked off on their planned itinerary. My wife, 5 year old daughter and I were enjoying the sound of the calypso drums and the warm welcome when we were met with a happy Caribbean smile and the native tongue ‘Welcome To Dominica, my beautiful home.‘

Desmond the local guide helped us to decide how to make the most of our visit and see the sights we wanted to see. Within a matter of minutes Desmond had filled his air conditioned mini-bus with other passengers and our Dominica discovery began.

We enjoyed the stories Desmond shared with us through the windy roads in to the mountains and the surprise drive through the Botanical Gardens. Desmond spoke of his homeland with passion and humour and when he began to refer to all the passengers on the bus as famous people, the journey became part of what we now remember fondly and will do so for many years to come.

After a brief stop at local craft stalls, another first for our daughter was sampling the natural thermal pools which mesmerised her but the real WOW was still to come. After paying the $5 entrance fee in to Trafalgar Falls National Park, we were not quite prepared for the true beauty that met us. After a short walk through the lush rainforest we joined the tourist group at the viewpoint. Those leaving to return to their buses were speaking with wonder about what they had just seen, it wasn’t long until we experienced for ourselves the true splendour and beauty of the waterfalls amongst the stunning backdrop.

We found ourselves captivated by the beauty and magnitude around us when our daughter broke the spell, paddling through one of the thermal pools, saying ‘Daddy, it’s just like a bath!’

So how much did our memory cost us?

Dominica with Desmond $20 per adult – kids free  $5 entrance fee per adult to Trafalgar Falls National Park & $10 tip – Total $60 (£38 equivalent.)

Pre Booked Cruise Excursion – The Highlights Of Dominica Tour – £42 per adult, £26 per child (3-12 years.)  Total £110

I will always have my happy memories of visiting the beautiful island of Dominica and sharing this experience with my wife and daughter.

Would I have made the same happy memories on the pre booked cruise ship excursion? – probably, but my memory of Dominica is just that little bit sweeter as it didn’t cost me the earth.