Trying to find something in Dominica but don’t know where to find it ? Post your questions here and I will try to point you in the right direction. This page is meant to be interactive, so readers please chime in! You can also private message me this way. Just mention in your comment not to post it. Thanks!
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From Louisiana to Dominica 
Thank you for such an amazing blog. Do I need any type of vehicles when am there? Also, I am planning to bring my dog with me. Any suggestion on housing? Thank you
Hi Mindy, are you an RUSM student?
Hi. If I start in May 2016, and do the accelerated track that means I’ll be done Aug 2017? you know the time line to take the boards and start clinicals? also would that be rusk class of ’19 or ’20. I can’t find any detailed timeline info on the website. Thank you
This is a great question that unfortunately I don’t have the answer to. There used to be a timeline that showed the whole process but I can’t find it. Maybe try posting this on the RUSM Facebook page.
What are your rates for massages? My fiance’ and I would both be looking to get one. Also, we are looking to island hop while I’m there over the winter break. What suggestions would you have?
You can message here for massage rates: https://www.facebook.com/Advanced-Massage-Therapy-Esthetic-Services-207220226053999/?fref=ts&ref=br_tf
Island hopping depends on your budget and whether you want to travel by ferry from Dominica or fly. You can take the ferry from Dominica to Martinique, Guadalupe, St. Lucia, Les Saintes or Marie Galante (http://www.express-des-iles.com/index.cfm?lng=en). St. Lucia is on the top of my list. I think the ferry ride there is 5 hrs and not a good choice is you get motion sickness.
Barbados is close, short flight and great beaches. You can find affordable hotels if you do your research. They are having a crime spike- to the point that the US embassy has had to send out warnings to US travelers-so you just have to be mindful if you go there.
Hi, let me just say that I love your blog and would probably be lost without it. A few of the people I’ve spoken to have been mentioning and recommending this restaurant at the entrance in Mero called Sardonyx. I’ve been using your restaurant list as a guide but didn’t see Sardonyx on there. Have you ever eaten from there and if so, would you recommend it? Thanks.
Hi Therese! I’m not familiar with Sardonyx but I see they have a Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/SardonyxRestaurant/timeline). Thanks for letting me know about it. I’ll add them to this list. Let me know how you like it if you give it a try…
Hello! I’ll be doing some volunteer work in Toucari (just north of Portsmouth) in November. I’m helping a local family to set up a coffee shop/snorkel rental. We’ll need to buy some basic items like a coffee maker, fridge, toaster, etc. and I’m wondering if there are any students leaving the island that would be interested in selling their household items? Do you know if there are classified ads online? I have Paypal and can arrange for pickup anytime between now and November.
Try the Dominica’s Craigslist Facebook group page.
Thanks, I did. Looks like everyone is selling mobile phones and nothing else!
BTW I just made a WordPress site for Toucari http://www.toucaribay.com. I’m trying to help out some local entrepreneurs in the village.
Email – itnac. Missions@gmail.com . We might be able to assist with the project.
So there are a lot of people that come to Dominica without a dog, and end up leaving with one. How do we go about getting out animals back home to the states? thank you
I don’t have experience with this, but it looks like it depends on the Airline policy, pet size (having pet in cabin vs. cargo) and/or the shipping company you use. LIAT, Seaborne, American, Amerijet, and Bobbis World (for larger pets) all have different guidelines. The temperature the day the pet is to be shipped matters also. For AA for example, the temp cannot be above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
The US gov has some guidelines posted here:
http://www.state.gov/m/fsi/tc/c10442.htm
The Ross PAWS group should be able to guide you:
(https://www.facebook.com/groups/119250798107335/) as well as some of the local vets (Dr. Thomas 266 3824 or Dr. Paul 277 4811).
Hi! I’m actually not a Ross student, but am a social work student from the States doing my practicum here. Can you tell me where in Roseau I can find The Spice Man? None of the locals I’ve asked have been able to tell me. Thanks!
Hi Briana. He is right next door to the Ruins Rock Café near King George V and Hanover street. Also close to Dupigny’s Fabric store. Close to what is called the “old market area”.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ruins-Rock-Caf%C3%A9/516331095159351
Here is a map of Roseau :
http://www.caribbean-on-line.com/islands/dm/rsmap.shtml
I love this blog! I have no idea what I would do without you! Do you know where I can get posters printed in the Picard/Portsmouth area? Thank you so much!
Hi Meaghan!… And what would RCF do without you ?! Yeah so Skeenit, Skeenit in Portsmouth prints posters. 276-7737
https://www.facebook.com/skeenit.skeenit?fref=ts
http://www.skeenit.com
I think Depex does too but I’m not sure they have a Portsmouth location anymore: https://www.facebook.com/depex.colourlab?fref=ts
Did you check with Campbells on campus ?
This blog is amazing! Thanks for all your tips. Wondering if you have any idea who might be able to do a small appliance repair in the area? I seem to have busted my nutribullet..
You might want to go talk to Kristoff who repairs the fans at James Store. He’s helped me a lot and if he can’t do it he may be able to point you in the right direction.
Hi, I’m a new incoming student at Ross. I would like to ask if you know anything about Atlas International medical insurance? It’s really cheap $160/semester and I’m thinking of buying it instead of accepting Ross health insurance which is $475/semester. Do you think this is a good idea? Do you know anyone at Ross who bought this cheap plan? Thanks
Hi Alice, welcome to Ross. I have not used Atlas so I can’t comment on it but I have known people that have. Another option people use is: https://www.hthtravelinsurance.com/students_plans.cfm . AAA offers plans as well as some of the private companies like Blue Cross. A plan that includes emergency evacuation services would be best.
Thanks for the reply. I will look more closely into the benefits these plans cover. Also, I have another question, do you know if the stores on the island sell Olay beauty products and what are the prices? I know that they say we should bring beauty products if we are particular about brands. But Olay is a really famous and widespread beauty brand and I wonder if it’s on the island? Thanks.
They have it sometimes at IGA Grocery and at Jolly’s Pharmacy in Roseau I’m pretty sure but they don’t have the full product line and it’s way too expensive. Olay is one of those things I import.
Checked in Roseau last week. The line of Olay products at Jollys Pharmacy cost anywhere from 30 EC to 65 EC ( 7 US to 24 US) per product.
Thank you soooo much. This blog is awesome. And you’re amazing for creating this helpful website. I’m really looking forward to island life. Thanks again!!!
Any suggestions on traveling to Dominica with a pet?
LOVE your blog and very helpful!! Thank you so much!
There is some information here : http://www.rossu.edu/medical-school/living.cfm and http://www.rossu.edu/medical-school/documents/AnimalHealthGuidelines.pdf; Also, join the Ross PAWS Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/119250798107335/
Hi, Wondering where can I get Passport size photo taken? Appreciated.
Radiant Photography in Portsmouth 225-7541
Amazing, wonderful blog, thank you so much! I am joining the faculty in March. Are the propane tanks the same as the US? I have two here stateside and was thinking of removing the valves so they can be shipped, would you recommend/for against this?
I don’t think you can ship propane tanks. You should check with the shipping company.
I did find the answer and am posting it for anyone else with the same question- basically it is such a hassle it is not cost effective to do so. If it has ever had propane in it, it is a no-go without certification processes that require triple what a tank costs on island.
thanks for the info!
Where can I watch the super bowl?
The Champs!
My husband is considering going to Ross…I have to ask, just how bad is the bug situation? I’ve lived in South Florida before (cockroach central) is it like that, much worse? Are they in everything inside of your house…? I’m kind of a pansy when it comes to bugs!
Thank you-
Roaches are here but not as bad as FL and LA in my experience! The common pests here are sugar ants, mosquitos, and the after the rain bugs. Most ppl keep traditional dry goods (rice/pasta/flour) either sealed in ziplock bags/Tupperware or keep them in the refrigerator to reduce any chances of bugs getting out of control. Pest control is included in our rent so I don’t have to live with bugs, but not every landlord offers that service. So you would probably want a place that offers pest control and has intact screens on the windows. You can buy do it yourself products like Terro ant killer here on island an mosquito nets if needed.
I want to send a Ross student a care package for Thanksgiving but I was hoping to find something on-island that could put together a little something…any ideas where I could get this done?
Thanks
It depends on what kind of gift you have in mind. I know D’s Tropical makes gifts baskets/sends flowers, 767-445-6445 . If you have something specific in mind as far as what you would like to send, let me know and I’ll try to put you in touch with the right people.
I think I’m looking for a gift basket that maybe has wine/cheese.chocolate/ actual food that will maybe remind him he is not alone on Thanksgiving.
Pretty sure D’s can do that. If not, maybe try Pirates, down in Roseau, they specialize in wine and cheese…http://www.visit-dominica.com/querydetail.cfm?Id=209 .
awesome thanks
Does anyone know where to rent dirt bikes ?
Alexis Taxi maybe ?
Hello,
Do you know where can I buy a hammock?
I have not seen any for sale Jakub. I know ppl tend to import them. I’ll post again if I see any for sale locally.
I hear Astaphans is selling them now…
Where can I find a wireless router near campus?
Try the Facebook RUSM Craigslist page. See if Campbells print shop on campus has one. In Roseau, you can probably get one at Universal Elegance (aKa the Muslim Store) 767-448-5100. Good luck!
David I spoke to some techs at SAT today. They said to try Town Network in Portsmouth or Brandsmark in Roseau…
http://s2.dominicayp.com/Dominica/Brandsmark/profile
Hi I’m a 1st semester here do you know where we could find a decent barber near campus?
Thanks, I love your blog it really contributed to me knowing what to expect once I got down here which made me love the place even more.
Hi Rosh. There are two near campus. Benji’s is located behind the mosque. You can call him for an appointment at 245-1788. There is also Chen’s barber across the street from The Tomato restaurant on Banana Trail.
You’re awesome thanks!
Amazing blog! How about gluten free options? I know the IGA in St. Kitts has some gluten free options; but how about eating at restaurants and on campus? I always have to explain in detail at restaurants and in St. Kitts they were a little intimidated by my order, but at least fairly amenable…I was wondering if it would be similar or more difficult? Thanks!
IGA does have some gluten free options. The Tomato Restaurant (http://www.thetomatocafe.com/) is probably your best bet to network with. Also, look for the Facebook group “Cooking in Dominica”. The host is gluten free and posts regular recipes and the like. I am also going to email you contact info. for a gluten free eater on island.
you’re amazing! thanks so much!
I first want to say thank you for an excellent blog! It has been incredibly helpful as I make final preparations to move to the island in just a few weeks. One question that I have: is the IGA (or other) grocer well stocked with grains, legumes, quinoa, etc? Furthermore, are there any health concerns or special precautions to know about concerning eating the fruits/veggies? I eat a primarily plant-based diet, and am wondering how much bulk food I will need to ship down. Thanks you so much!
Rice and oats are available at most places here in abundance. IGA also carries bulghur but sometimes they run out and it takes time before it appears on the shelves again. Quinoa and flaxseed appear every once and a while, very hit or miss. Quinoa is one of the only food items I bring back to DOM in my suit case. You should be fine on legumes-lots of beans, lentils, and soy products are available. Nuts are available but costly.
I clean my veggies here with vinegar and salt water. It works for me. I’ve had friends that have gone as far as bleaching the lettuce and the like. I totally recommend the pro-biotic route during your stay.
My husband and myself are moving to Dominica in September and I was wondering if there are any kickboxing classes on the island? I am a certified trainer addicted to kickboxing, and I’m just wondering if I need to bring my own equipment.
This semester there is a class on Thursday nights that is listed as “Boxing/Kick Boxing” on the gym roster. You may want to call the gym to find out what equipment is on site: 767-255-6337, ask for Dixon. Also you may want to join the facebook group, “Ross Wellness Club”, where you can interact with some of the current students that frequent the gym.
Hi, I am leaving the island to head to Miami for 5th semester in August! Is there any way to get a barrel here to ship my stuff? I did not bring one when I moved here. Also how much do you think it may cost? Thanks
Hi Samantha. Talk with Alexis at Alexis Taxi. I think he sells barrels. Also, I’ve seen students sell barrels to each other on the Facebook Group “Dominica’s Craigslist”. I would post on there that you are looking to purchase one. Good luck.
I will be moving to Dominica in early July for 6 months (just in time for Hurricane season) I will be living and volunteering in an area called St. George near Roseau – since i’ll be volunteering I am wondering how much I will need for weekly expenses – thinking groceries, transportation, occasionally eating out and some weekend activities. ANy help would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Nicole. You planning on getting an apartment in Roseau? Do you plan to use air conditioning? Plan on getting a car or using public transport? Groceries depend on whether you plan to eat local fruits/veggies or buy a lot of imported goods.
scrubs? not through the university bookstore online
anywhere nearby campus?
Island Thrift on campus by Subway, All Stationery Supplies behind Bullseye Pharmacy (across from Ross main gate) and also join the Facebook group Dominica’s Craiglist. Good luck!
Thanks for your help, I have another question, do you know if there is/where I can find anything equivalent of a Tim Horton’s Iced Cap or Starbucks frappucino–> in Dominica? It’s one of my favorites!
Shack # 9 has some Starbucks grinds for sale. Island thrift on campus may as well. The Wrap Factory used to serve starbucks but I’m not sure if they still do. Have u tried the Pic N Go on campus?
Is there a music store on the island or anywhere to buy instruments?
You can buy instruments at the the Blue Sky Home Center in Portsmouth and at Astaphans in Roseau. There is also a Chinese store in Roseau that sells instruments but I don’t know the name of it. I’m sure a local could point you in the right direction.
thanks a lot…do you know if there are any sporting goods store where you could buy tennis rackets in Rouseau?
Try Outdoor World and Astaphans. I think you can also rent them from the CAC.
the mosque sells halal chicken…and so does picard. i brought rice with me. you wont find basmati on the island however, there is regular white rice
Hi, Do you know of any grocery stores that sell halal/kosher meat/chicken.
Also, can you find white rice in Dominica, or is better to ship it?
I am from Canada.
Hi Anim. You can find halal meat at most of the grocery stores around the university. Plenty of white rice on island, no need to ship.
Wow, thanks for the info! Cant wait!
Really glad I found this before I head down to start at Ross in May! Awesome blog, thank you!
I did have one question you might be able to help with. I enjoy cycling, and was wondering how common it is to see people riding on the roads there? I have a goal to build a bike while I am down there, would this be possible using only components bought on the island? Is there even a bike shop?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Jon if you haven’t already, read the post Mike McDonald wrote on this blog about biking Dominica. Cycling down here is a blast. You’ve got to wear a helmet though bc between the potholes, gravel, hills/curves and CRAZY drivers, wiping out is bound to occur 🙂 – not that I know that from personal experience or anything…ahem.
There is no high end “bike shop” like we have access to in the states- meaning no specialized shop that only deals with bikes with a wide variety available, with well stocked repair supplies etc. In Portsmouth, about a 10 minute ride from campus, there is a hardware store where you can get tires and some parts. There is a young man there who does some repairs, he would be your best contact. Sometimes the quality of material you can get there though is poor. I had a friend that bought a bike on island. She went through three bike chains in about a month before she found one that didn’t break. So you would just have to keep that in mind when trying to build.
I love your idea about building a bike here! I think it would be a fun challenge. (I’d be prone to bringing one from home for a backup to use until you can get one made though.) If there is one thing I can tell you about Dominicans it is that they are super resourceful. They don’t throw away anything that they can recycle for parts. They are a people who are used to making things work with what they have. They are used to working with their hands. You will be able to find some locals to help you in your endeavor for sure!
Thank you for this wonderful blog!!! I do have a question, just out of curiosity, do you suggest someone for hair dying?
The only person I know that might offer this kind of service is the lady named Nicole that advertizes in the Ross Business Announcements and on the billboards around campus.
Do you know where to get something notarized in Dominica? Hopefully near campus!
Hi Kristen. You can get a document notarized on campus by Dr. Grell. Call his secretary to make an appointment.
Thank you so much!!
wow thank you so much!!
I am not a Ross student, but an artist hoping to go to Dominica in a year or so and work with local artists, I love that you have some pictures of a few, but do you happen to know of any arts centers that would be interested in a cross cultural arts exchange? It doesn’t seem to exist already, but I would love to begin a new program. Thanks for any info you have, where did you photograph the local artists you posted?
Thanks in advance,
Amy Meya
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Meya-ceramic-artist/212979116404
Hi Amy. These photos have been taken at Ross University’s Art and Craft Fair which takes place every November. The fair is a charity fundraiser. Artists from all over the island gather in one place, show case their work, and donate a portion of their proceeds to designated charities.
I am not sure that the island has an “arts center”. There are little galleries island wide. You can network with a lot of Dominican artists via Facebook. One local ceramics artist can be found under “Tiffanys Art, Canefield, Dominica” on Fb. Also look up “Tropical Ties Dominica” and “Dominica Arts and Crafts Producers Association (DACPA)” on Fb.
Check out these websites:
http://www.emosesart.com/biography.htm
http://www.earletienne.com/
http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/kelvin-james.html
I just got to the island, and I haven’t had a lot of opportunity to do any exploring, do you have any suggestions where I could find fabric?
Welcome Jessa. You can find fabric in Roseau on the second floor of Save A Lot (767-448-2241), Dupigny’s (767-448-2310) and on the top floor of Astaphans (767-448-3221).
thanks! I also have another couple of questions.
1) Where can I find potting soil?
2) I know things can be a bit more expensive here sometimes, but what is the price for furniture like?
You can check out furniture prices online at: http://shop.astaphans.com/ and http://www.courts.co.dm/ . For potting soil try:
Mac’s Plant Nursery
Fond Canie Box 1810 Roseau
Telephone: 767-245-6856
Where can I find a scanner to scan and email documents?
Thanks! Liz
The 3rd floor of the CAC at the student life desk.
I just got accepted for May 2012, and my question is, do we need to take our own printer and paper, or can we use them at school?
Thanks.
Congratulations Erik. You do not need to bring a printer and paper. Each classrooom has a printer in it for you to print out your lecture notes. You get a print allowance per week. Library has printer/copier as well.
Hi,
I might be going on May 2012 and was wondering how difficult it is to get an apartment on the nicer complex that you name here.
Also what do you think about the life there, getting your clinical rotations and/or residency??
Thanks!!!
Hard to say about apartment availability, as it changes from semester to semester and even during the semester. You just have to check the Ross housing website, target a place you want and be pro-active in your deliberations with the landlord. Leases are usually only for one semester, so you can always move and find what you want.
For me, life here is very do-able. I feel I have what I need for the most part and I feel safe in Dominica. If you want a strong support system you can find it here. If you choose to make the best of your time here, you will leave Dominica a stronger person. You will have to adapt to living in a different culture. Traits such as flexibility and patience will get you very far here.
For information re: clinicals and residency I would refer you to the ross valuemd forums where you can read how upperclassmen have done once they have left Dominica.
Hey do you know if they have self raising flour here on the island or if they have flour and yeast? Thank you for your help in advance.
Flour and yeast it is.
How about rice noodles? I checked IGA but they didn’t seem to have any. I don’t know where Riverside would get their’s.
I don’t think I’ve seen them for sale here. I would ask Riverside or the chef who is running the new sushi place , “The Usual Spot”, across from the main gate.
Where can you find those cereal box tupperwares? I’m worried about ants getting in my cereal box once i open it.
Hi Paul. Tupperware products can be found on the second floor of James Store in Picard and on the second floor of Astaphans in Roseau. You can usually find the cereal box tupperware at the 4th semester sale at the end of the semester, but that is a bit far from now. Two other places you might check out are charlie’s post: http://www.charliespost.com/ AND join the Facebook group called “Dominica’s ‘Craiglist’ ” where students post items they are selling. Before I got my cereal box tupperware I used gallon size ziplock bags to keep the bugs out which worked just as well.
Thanks so much. I went to James and got a whole bunch.
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