La Plaine: The Hidden Gem of Dominica

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-joo]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [o-rev-wa]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tan-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-keez-ay mwenn]
• How are you?Kouman ou ye?
  [koo-mahn oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byen. ay oo]
• Do you speak English?Eske ou pale angle?
  [es-kay oo pah-lay an-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [mwenn pa kohn-prann]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni an, tanpri
  [mwenn tah ren-men way meh-nee an, tan-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje kawòn
  [mwenn pa mahn-jay ka-wohn]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwenn tah ren-men pay-yay, tan-pree]

• Help!Ed!
  [ed]
• Go away!Ale!
  [ah-lay]
• Call the Police!Rele lapòl!
  [ray-lay lah-pohl]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [ray-lay yohn dohk-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pedi
  [mwenn pay-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwenn mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [mwenn tah ren-men ahsh-tay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
  [mwenn zjee gah-day]
• How much is it?Konbyen sa koute?
  [kohn-byen sah koo-tay]
• That's too expensiveSa tro chè
  [sah troh chay]
• Can you lower the price?Ou ka ba pri la?
  [oo ka bah pree lah]

• What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [kee lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi enpil
  [lee en-peel]
• Half past (10)Demi disè
  [deh-mee dee-say]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-pray-mee-dee]
• EveningSwè
  [sway]
• YesterdayYè
  [yay]
• TodayJodi a
  [joh-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [deh-men]
• 1Yon
  [yohn]
• 2De
  [day]
• 3Twaz
  [twaz]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Senk
  [sank]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Sèt
  [set]
• 8Wit
  [weet]
• 9Nèf
  [nef]
• 10Dis
  [dee]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote gen yon/la...?
  [kee koh-tay zhayn yohn/lah]
• What's the address?Ki adres la?
  [kee ah-dress lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou ka montre mwen (sou kat)?
  [oo ka mohn-tray mwenn (soo kaht)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè pwochen (bis la)?
  [kee lay pwosh-en (bees lah)]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yohn tee-kay (poo)]

Before the arrival of Europeans, La Plaine was inhabited by the indigenous Kalinago people. These early settlers relied on fishing, hunting, and agriculture, living in harmony with the lush tropical surroundings. Artifacts such as pottery and tools have been discovered in the area, providing a glimpse into their daily lives and cultural practices.

In the late 15th century, European explorers arrived in the Caribbean. Dominica, including the La Plaine area, was claimed by both the French and British during different periods. This era saw the establishment of plantations, the introduction of African slaves, and a significant impact on the indigenous population due to disease and conflict.

During the 18th century, escaped African slaves, known as Maroons, established communities in the rugged interior of Dominica. La Plaine became a refuge for these groups who resisted European control. The Maroons played a crucial role in preserving African cultural practices and resisting colonial rule.

The Treaty of Paris in 1763 marked a pivotal moment in Dominica's history, including La Plaine. The treaty transferred control of the island from France to Britain. This change in colonial power led to the restructuring of plantations and had lasting effects on the local economy and social dynamics.

Following the abolition of slavery in 1834, La Plaine, like other parts of Dominica, underwent significant social and economic changes. Freed African slaves began to establish their own communities, engage in subsistence farming, and contribute to the cultural mosaic of the region. The village of La Plaine emerged as a vibrant community during this period.

The 20th century brought modernization and development to La Plaine. Infrastructure improvements, such as roads and schools, enhanced the quality of life for residents. The village maintained its agricultural roots while integrating new economic activities. Cultural festivals and traditional practices continued to thrive, preserving the rich heritage of the area.

Today, La Plaine is a picturesque village that attracts visitors with its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The community remains closely connected to its historical roots, with traditional music, dance, and culinary practices being integral to daily life. The area's lush landscapes, including rivers and waterfalls, offer a serene escape and a glimpse into the harmonious coexistence of history and nature.

La Plaine is located on the southeastern coast of Dominica. The nearest airport is Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM), approximately 50 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach La Plaine, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Canefield Airport (DCF) near Roseau, the capital, and drive to La Plaine, which is a 1-hour journey.

La Plaine is a small community, and many attractions are within walking distance. Local buses (minibuses) and taxis are available for longer distances. Renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas, but be aware that roads can be narrow and winding. Always check the condition of the vehicle before renting.

The official currency in Dominica is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments. ATMs are available in La Plaine, but it is wise to carry sufficient cash for remote areas.

La Plaine is generally a safe destination for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it’s always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in La Plaine. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies in the area provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience La Plaine like a local, visit the Sari Sari Falls and take a refreshing dip. Explore the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Dominican goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Don’t miss the annual La Plaine Reunion Festival, which showcases local music, food, and traditions.