Hello World !

Welcome ! The purpose of this blog is to help people who are moving to Dominica that are affiliated with Ross University School of Medicine. Hopefully you will find this information useful in aiding your transition from US life to life on the beautiful nature isle of the Caribbean, Dominica. I spent time reading online about the island before I moved here, however, I really had no concept of what daily life in Dominica was like. For this reason, I’ve decided to paint a picture for you so that you will know what to expect and where to find what you need. I’ve also highlighted some practical tips and given you some resources to help answer some of the questions you might have. The best way to navigate through this blog is by clicking on the menu tabs above or by using the search function in the upper right hand corner of the home page.

On a personal note, I have to say what a delight it has been for me to move from one French creole, Catholic culture to another. In Dominica I can still participate in Carnival, hear zydeco music, enjoy creole cooking, and hear words like crawfish, boudin and Lent–ah, just like home!  From the Gulf Coast to the waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, this has been an amazing journey. Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez !

Louisiana2Dominica

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Hike Fest 2012

The Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association  has dedicated the month of May to hiking. Saturdays in May are set aside to get out there and explore different trails. This weekend’s hike starts in Colihaut and ends in Picard. The hike is graded as “easy”, almost four miles long. To learn more about this hike or other hikes this month visit DHTA’s website or call 767-440-3430. If any of you hit hike fest, let me know how it is.

Culture Shock

I thought I’d pass on some info today about culture shock. This is the time of year on the Ross U calendar that students that have finished their basic sciences are repatriating back to the U.S and new students are arriving to the island. It’s a time of transition that broadens our horizons and stretches our existing coping resources.  I came across this diagram online about culture shock that sums it up perfectly :

All of us in the RUSM community can find ourselves somewhere in steps 1-9. Check out the blog entry that accompanies the diagram above. The writer talks about the 3 P’s of culture shock. Good advice!

I hope you newbies are settling in well and meeting some helpful people to show you the way. Feel free to ask questions below. Remember that there are resources available to you through Facebook (your class page or the Ross Spouses Organization’s page) and on the ground in Student Life and/or the counseling center if you need some assistance.

For those of you who have returned to the U.S., how does it feel?

For Sale-Tough Traveler Child Carrier

I’m selling this item for a friend who is leaving the island. It is a “Tough Traveler“ child carrier, perfect for hiking Dominica with a little one. These carriers retail from $ 160 to 200 USD. You can have it for the low price of 55 US (150 EC). Comment with your contact information below and I will get back with you. (PS. Your contact info will be emailed to me via wordpress. I will not post your personal info below, thanks!).

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The Heat Is On

Here are the temp stats from the thermometer inside our apartment yesterday. It was 85.1 degrees, with 64 % humidity. Yikes! (Outdoor temperature was 89 degrees).

Given the real feel temperature of the past two days, it seems like our pleasant Caribbean winter is coming to an end . I’ve gotten spoiled by the great breezes and decreased humidity we’ve had the past few months. It really has been delightful. I’ve enjoyed spending a lot of time outdoors and feeling relatively comfortable.

Yesterday that all too familiar sensation returned-I couldn’t cool off for the life of me, sweat was rolling down my legs, and suddenly I had the impulse to scream like a banshee. Alas, I know what is coming in the months ahead-Sweatfest 2012. I guess we all signed up for this though, life in the tropics right ? Just livin’ the dream, livin’ the dream.

My summer survival plan will include increased pool time, patronizing Mr. Freeze in Portsmouth, and hiding out in places where I don’t pay the electric bill . What about you?

Tiffany’s

If you have a passion for the creative side of life, Tiffany’s is a place you must visit during your stay in Dominica. Where else in Dominica can you find a plethora of artwork, ceramics, hand-crafted soaps and jewelry, …and a tasty lunch all under one roof ?

Located in Canefield, Tiffany’s is described as an “art gallery, studio, gift shop, cafe’”. There is something for everyone at Tiffany’s.

Artwork from several different artists are on display in the gallery. Viewing all the artwork at Tiffany’s is like going on a cultural tour of Dominica-paintings of people, dancing, musicians, flowers, boats, rivers, waterfalls etc. During my visit, I especially enjoyed seeing scenes of beauty from the nature isle translated onto canvas.

If you’re down for some shopping, Tiffany’s is a great place to buy souvenirs or special gifts for loved ones. Not only is there some art for sale, but also hand-made soaps, candles, wood carvings, gift baskets, and jewelry. While you’re shopping you’ll notice local spices and scents will fill the air -ginger, cinnamon, passionfruit, lime etc., all exuding from her hand-crafted products.

If you get hungry while you are browsing, you have a lovely variety of food items to pick from-and very affordable I might add. As you enter the gallery there is a little bar where you can pick up some light pastries or something to drink. If you’re ready for a meal, check out one of her roti dishes or caesar salads…

Tiffany also offers art classes. For more information, find Tiffany on Facebook, call the gallery at 767-245-4793, or send an email to tiffanysartgallery@gmail.com .

The Rib Lady

One of my favorite things to do in Dominica is to spend time getting to know the locals. There is no shortage of characters here. I thought I would introduce y’all to one the local food vendors who serves up tasty barbecue with a warm smile and a kind heart. Her name is Tina, aka “The Rib Lady”. She  sets up on the side-walk across from the main gate of the medical school.

Tina serves up imported baby back ribs every other week from 2 PM to 2 AM.  She keeps perfect hours for all of you hiding out on campus studying into the wee hours of the morning. Not only does Tina offer spicy, marinated barbecue ribs, but also grilled chicken. You can get a side of coleslaw and some bread along with your meat. Tina also stocks a supply of snacks, chips and drinks.

Her prices are very affordable. See this eye candy below…it only cost 15 EC.

Thanks Tina! You are the best. Thanks for all that you do. We appreciate you burning the midnight oil in order to keep Ross well fed .

PS. Tina can be contacted at 225-7025 .

Boats & Ships

“Well, it’s not far down to paradise, at least it’s not for me. And if the wind is right you can sail away and find tranquility. Oh, the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see. Believe me.” ~ Christopher Cross

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Dominica Travel Guide Updated

My favorite resource on Dominica has recently been updated. The Bradt Travel Guide to Dominica, second edition, is now available. If you are moving to Dominica or planning to visit, this guide will give you all the information you need to know about the island. Read about the guide at the author’s website: paulcrask.com or purchase the guide directly from Amazon.

Hiking West Cabrits

One of Dominica’s major historical landmarks, Fort Shirley/The Cabrits , is just a 10 minute taxi ride from Ross. This makes for a perfect getaway when time is short and cash is tight. If you are lucky to hit the fort on a cruise ship  day, you will find the gift shop, restaurant and informational buildings open for business. Your university ID gets you into the park for free so bring it with you. There are two different trails you can hike-the east trail or the west trail, each with their own breath-taking views and sights along the way.

I just recently hiked the west trail. I found it a little more challenging than the east trail merely because the trail is rocky. You have to watch your feet during the steady climb, making sure to find the flat areas between the rocks to step on. The trail is nicely cut though and towering trees above you provide great shade.  The walk is quiet and peaceful, only taking about 35 minutes each way. When you reach the lookout, you will be greeted by an old cannon and a majestic view of Guadalupe. Check it out when you have some down time.

Otter Box

Thought I would pass on some good island toys that help you weather the elements here in Dominica. Here is a cool little contraption to keep your cell phone/electronics dry while you are out boating, snorkeling, or walking to class in the rain-the waterproof otter box. You can find these at dive shops in the states or online through sites like Amazon. We’ve had ours for a while and never had trouble with it leaking. It’s perfect for Dominica living.  Check out otter boxes FAQs for more info, especially if you are looking for something specific for a particular hand held device.

Right before Christmas a friend gave me one of these to try out, a closet dehumidifier. We have some cabinet space that seems to stay damp no matter how much we air it out. I’m pretty sure this a common occurrence in the tropics period. This box basically has crystals inside of it that absorb excess moisture in the air. When we left for the holidays the box was empty but when we returned it was full of about two inches of water. There is a fill line on the box that lets you know when to discard the container. One box lasts us about three months. You can find these dehumidifiers in the states at Walmart, Walgreens, Target, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Bed, Bath & Beyond etc.  I’ve had a couple of friends here that have lost nice leather shoes or clothes to mold because the closets are so damp. So this is an easy no brainer solution if you have a problem area where you are renting.

Cruise to Run 2012

I was recently in the village of Dublanc and found out about a cruise ship of runners that will be arriving to Dominica tomorrow, Thursday, January 26th. ”Cruise To Run” totes itself as being “The Ultimate Runner’s Vacation”. From January 22nd – January 29th 2012 this group of runners are island hopping throughout the Caribbean and racing at every port. Not only do they race, but they also donate different items to each island they stop on. The run has been organized by long time runner Jerry Friesen. You can read about him on the “Cruise To Run” website.

The Dominica run will take place on Segment 10 of the Waitukubuli National Trail-from Colihaut to Syndicate, which is about four miles. Since Syndicate is 15 minutes from campus,  you may get to see some of the action if you are headed toward Roseau. Other than by word of mouth I have not heard too much about this run, but I found a good article about it online this evening. It sounds like it is a great event to be a part of and great exposure for Dominica. I guess this is one cruise you won’t gain 10 pounds on .

Slide No More

I’ve spent the week trying to get my blog updated. Since I started blogging in 2010 many changes have taken place in Dominica. I realized that some of my old posts technically have outdated info so I’ve tried to go through and clean everything up.

I’m looking for some input from you computer savvy people. On my blog I have used “Slide” to display a whole bunch of photos in one posting or to run a slide show. With the version of wordpress that I have, I can upload photos but can’t drag many photos into a particular layout within one blog entry. Today I saw this message from Slide, “IMPORTANT UPDATE: Slide.com will be shutting down on March 6th 2012.  Please click here to start exporting your content prior to this date or it will be lost. Thanks for using Slide.com!” So, more blogging updates are in my near future. I’m searching for another program or some other way to upload multiple photos or a photo album. I’m sure there is an easy solution, I just don’t know what it is. I’m looking your way Priceless Adventure or Mathesons of the Caribbean…help a sista out. Suggestions anyone? Bueller?

Stationery Supplies

I’m still processing all the recent changes to Picard. Yesterday I just realized that Natural Livity restaurant has closed. The Uptown Diner restaurant has moved into Kathryne’s across from the shacks and Kathryne’s has moved to Portsmouth where the Adaj used to be. The Sol Food Cafe is closed. The Soul Space Spa has moved from behind Bullseye Pharmacy to next to Hope Restaurant…which brings me to why I am writing this post.

Where Soul Spa used to be is “All Stationery Supplies”. I went to go check it out the other day thinking this is a good thing since we don’t have a university bookstore right now. On a good day, office supplies can usually be found at “The Cafe” on campus, James Store or Picard Grocery. This new place had standard office supplies, but also things like scrubs, clipboards, pen lights, reflex hammers, medical gloves, sphygmomanometers and stethoscopes. They also had a shelf of children’s toys and other non-stationary items. Their hours are from 9-5 M-F and 9-1 on Saturday. Phone-767-245-3504. Check them out, you may be able to find some gems that you need for your ICM exams.

PS. I was recently with some friends and we asked the guys at the Hope restaurant why they named their restaurant Hope. One of the workers cleverly responded, “because we hope the students pass their exams”. Too funny.

Cornish Hens

We are all patiently waiting for Picard to awaken. The area around the university has been quiet for semester break, but it is slowly stirring as students return to the island. Classes start officially as of tomorrow morning. The good news is–most of the vendors will re-open their doors after being closed for the holiday season. Many of the local restaurants/shacks will be open for business.

Trying to cook and prepare meals during break is always an adventure. This week I went to IGA, Tina’s Grocery, and Picard Grocery and still have items on my grocery list I can’t find. This is how we all learn how to work with what we have, get creative in the kitchen and make a recipe work-forced resourcefulness.

I can only eat chicken so many times a week. For some reason, when we are on island, we don’t tend to eat beef. So what are some other options out there for meat eaters in Dominica? Locally, you can find goat, ribs, pork, lamb, turkey, and sausage. We decided to get wild tonight and cook Cornish hen for the first time ever. It was time for something new, time to get out of that cooking rut and stop eat boring, repetitive meals. So, we bought two frozen 2 lb hens that came from Canton, OH all the way to IGA Portsmouth. Then we dusted off our Ronco Rotisserie.

Here’s how we started out…We cooked the hens together so we would have some meat for leftovers. The hens were so light that we didn’t need to use any ties to secure them to the cooking spikes. We set the timer for an hour and got busy doing other things. Things were quiet and uneventful for the first fifteen minutes. Then I noticed a non-religious smoke offering taking place in the kitchen. Ummm that can’t be good. Lesson #1 learned….note to self…make sure hens are on first cooking notch of rotisserie, not second where the hen leg could ummmm possibly rest on the rotisserie heating unit, charring hen’s lower extremities . At least this was a problem that could be easily remedied. All we had to do was to move the hens to the lower cooking notch, toward the front of the rotisserie and away from the back of the unit.

The rest of it was a cinch. We were able to “set it and forget it” as Ronco promises. 45  minutes later the hens had reached the desired internal temperature of 180 degrees and that was a wrap. Here’s what they looked like…

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we sat down to enjoy dinner, which really felt like a feast for Moo Cow trail living. I served the hen with beans, corn, and a side salad. The hen was fantastic just having been cooked in its own juices. It tasted just like turkey. Next time we’ll try an overnight marinade.

In case you are new and need some, here are a few Dominica cooking resources:

Cooking with Chris - A Rossie who has his own youtube cooking channel

Spouses Kitchen - Recipes from the Ross Spouses Organization

Dominica Food and Drink Guide 2012

Dominica Cook Book – put out by Mrs. Lambert of Ross University

Enjoy!

Winds of Change

Well, the winds of change are blowing around the island. The main road from Picard (where we live) to the capital, Roseau is being re-designed and re-paved. Also, new road signs have been put up like this one below…

We’ve just recently gotten road signs in Picard as well and an actual yellow line painted down Robert Ross Blvd. If you’re in the US reading this you are probably laughing to yourself, but t’is true. This is a first in our area–lines on the road.

We just got back from break and discovered a few other changes. For example, Bob’s Chinese restaurant has relocated from across the street from the shacks to the new blue building on Banana Trail. 7-11′s doors are closed! We arrived to Dominica before 7-11 was built. Since they opened, their doors have never closed, ever…not even on Christmas Day. I am really hoping that they are just relocating somewhere, but the word on the street is that they have shut down their Picard location.

In the short time we were gone, the shacks got a facelift…

They traded in the downtown brown for a preppy pink and green. Nice! And last, but certainly not least…

Surely you jest! Okay we all know Rituals closes over break, but that says, “no longer in operation”. Again, the word on the street is that Rituals is gone and not re-opening. Since the Rituals location in the capital city closed just a few months ago, I suppose I should not be surprised. Rituals was not built when we first arrived to the island. I’m sad to see it come and go so quickly.

The Rituals Picard location did just recently open up a small (and I mean tiny) branch on campus called Pic-N-Go.  So, I guess Pic-N-Go it will be and Rituals no more? I hope this is all a bad dream. I hope tomorrow morning 7-11 and Rituals will be open. In the meantime, like any coffee addict would do, I got busy today tracking down some concrete info on another coffee supplier–the coffee shack #9 called, “La Casa Espresso”. If you are on Robert Ross Blvd. looking at the shacks, La Casa Espresso is on the left side toward the end. There are some tables outside in front of it. The posted hours of operation are 6 am to 10 pm. and they were open for business today. (A side note for newbies…posted hours of operation are a suggestion in the Caribbean, an estimate at best, and not necessarily written in stone…call first before getting out of bed at 6 am, 445-6445 or 245-1043). So, we have La Casa to get some coffee from off campus, and the Pic-N-go and the “The Cafe” on campus. The Wrap Factory was serving Starbucks coffee but I’m not sure if they are still doing that.

So, that’s all for now. I hope you have all had a nice break from studying. Bonne Annee!