Calibishie Beach: Dominica's Coastal Gem

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-jo]
• GoodbyeOrevwaa
  [o-rev-wa]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tan-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-kee-zay mwen]
• How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [kee-jan oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byen. ay oo]
• Do you speak English?Èske ou pale angle?
  [es-ke oo pal an-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [mwen pa kon-pran]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni an, tanpri
  [mwen ta ren-men way me-nee an tan-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [mwen pa manj vyan]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwen ta ren-men pay-ye tan-pree]

• Help!Ed! / Sekou!
  [ed / se-koo]
• Go away!ale!
  [ah-lay]
• Call the Police!Rele Lapolis!
  [re-lay la-poh-lee]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [re-lay yohn dok-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pedi
  [mwen peh-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwen ma-lad]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [mwen ta ren-men ach-tay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
  [mwen zjee gahd]
• How much is it?Konbyen li ye?
  [kon-byen lee yay]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sa twa sheh]
• Can you lower the price?Èske ou ka ba pri la?
  [es-ke oo ka bah pree lah]

• What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [kee lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockSe yon lè
  [say yohn lay]
• Half past (10)Douzan
  [doo-zan]
• MorningMaten
  [ma-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ap-re-mi-dee]
• EveningAswè
  [ah-sway]
• YesterdayYe
  [yay]
• TodayJodi a
  [zho-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [de-men]
• 1Yon
  [yohn]
• 2De
  [day]
• 3Twaz
  [twa]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Senk
  [sank]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Sèt
  [sett]
• 8Wit
  [weet]
• 9Nèf
  [nef]
• 10Dis
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Kote... ye?
  [ko-tay yay]
• What's the address?Ki adres la ye?
  [kee ah-dres lah yay]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Èske ou ka montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [es-ke oo ka mon-tray mwen soo kaht lah]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè pwochen la ye?
  [kee lay pwo-shen lah yay]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yohn tee-kay poo]

Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Calibishie Beach was inhabited by the Kalinago people. These indigenous inhabitants, also known as the Caribs, were skilled fishermen and navigators who relied on the rich marine life of the Atlantic coast. Their influence is still felt today, with many place names and cultural practices in Dominica reflecting their heritage.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Dominica was a hotly contested territory between the French and British. Calibishie, with its strategic location and natural harbor, saw its share of skirmishes and settlements. The French established a presence in the area, and remnants of this period, including ruins of old plantations and colonial buildings, can still be explored today.

The fertile lands around Calibishie were once home to thriving sugar plantations. These plantations were primarily worked by enslaved Africans brought to the island. The brutal conditions and the forced labor system left a lasting impact on the area, and the legacy of this era is a somber chapter in Calibishie's history. Today, visitors can learn about this period through various historical tours and preserved sites.

After the abolition of slavery in the 19th century, many former slaves in Calibishie and surrounding areas turned to small-scale farming and fishing. The village became known for its production of bananas, cocoa, and other agricultural products. This shift played a crucial role in shaping the community's economy and way of life.

In recent decades, Calibishie has transformed from a primarily agricultural community to a popular tourist destination. The area is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs. Eco-tourism and sustainable practices have become central to the local economy, with many businesses and residents working to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Calibishie.

Calibishie Beach is located on the northern coast of Dominica. The primary gateway to the island is Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM), approximately 20 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Calibishie Beach, which typically takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can arrange for a shuttle service through your accommodation.

Once in Calibishie, getting around is relatively easy. The village is compact, and many attractions are within walking distance. For exploring the wider area, local taxis are available and can be arranged through your accommodation. Renting a car is also an option, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Public buses are less frequent but can be a budget-friendly option for traveling to nearby towns and villages.

The official currency in Dominica is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Calibishie, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments. ATMs are available in the village, but it is wise to ensure you have sufficient cash before traveling to more remote areas.

Calibishie is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take the usual precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 999 or 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facility is the Marigot Hospital, located about 15 kilometers away. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Calibishie where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always be respectful when visiting churches or religious ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be patient, as public transport schedules can be irregular. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good day' or 'Hello'. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Calibishie Beach like a local, visit the farmers' market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Dominican goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the village's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the nearby Red Rocks, a unique geological formation offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. For a unique experience, take part in a fishing trip with local fishermen to understand their way of life.