Why Dominica will be a prime destination for hikers in 2010

Unlike its Caribbean counterparts, Dominica is relatively underdeveloped in terms of facilities and accessibility for tourists. Yet for those who want the Caribbean experience with a greater focus towards exploration as opposed to commercialism, the rich volcanic island south of Guadaloupe is the perfect destination - and even more likely to be on the trip-list for hikers looking for sun holidays in 2010.

The reason 2010 is set to be such a big year for Dominica is because it will mark the end of the development of The Waitukubuli National Trail - one of the most significant tourism-orientated projects ever undertaken on the island.

The Trail is being developed by both the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry of Dominica in conjunction with the Regional Council of Martinique, and when completed will cover 115 miles from the south to the north of the island taking in both well traveled easier tracks, as well as the challenging rugged paths more suitable for experienced hikers.

The trail will cut through landscapes seen by precious few, and will boast some of the most intriguing aspects of Dominica, including historical sites and rainforests, as well as the Morne Trois Pitons National Park - a world heritage site famed for its unique volcanic activity evident at the Valley of Desolation and Boiling Lake.

Yet, the development is not only set to benefit those that visit the area, but also the wider Dominican economy in general. The island's tourist board has long acknowledged that the area has significant ecotourism potential, but since the New York terrorist attacks of September 11th 2001, visitor numbers declined significantly - leading to a number of moves in order to make the island more uniquely enticing.

Further developments are in place set to make Dominica even more popular among UK tourists too. 2010 will see the expansion at Melville Hall Airport in the north east of the island. As well as more runway facilities, electronic guidance systems will allow flights at night and will improve connections between islands, as well as making the island directly accessible from Europe - without the need to stop off in Antigua first.

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