I am asssuming you are referring Dominica and not to the DR, Dominican Republic, because the DR is very inexpensive. However about Dominica, I can't say enough about it. We live on St. John and vacation by going to other islands. Dominica is one of our favorites, You'll love if you hike and dive. I'm not sure about the snorkeling but the diving is wonderful. The sites are close by and the staff friendly. Hiking in the rainforest in Dominica is wonderful although Guadeloupe may be better. The people of Dominica are friendly it however is a poor country. Don't expect much in the way of places to stay and food. The island is a lot larger than St. John and a car is definatley required. Just flying into Dominica is an adventure. Definately worth a try.......

thanks Maddie! Yes, I'm referring to Dominica. We hike but don't dive. If you have any recommendations for small villas or tiny resorts we could check out and recommend one part of the island over another for safety or "fun activities" I'd appreciate getting some names to research. We are pretty laid back, don't shop or gamble, hubbie loves the beaches and sailing mostly, and likes to dance at night at small bars if possible. I love to explore the flora and fauna, wine, food, and snorkling but we know nothing at all about the island. Too bad there's no good message board like here (I already checked!). Thanks for any recomm. you can make!

Dominica is really quiet and really no night life. Everything is a drive and the beaches are really nothing to right home about. They do have several hot springs and some magnificent waterfalls. Because everything is a drive, we tend to stay at several places during our stay and explore from there for a few days. A lot of places offer dinner with the rooms because of the driving and the remoteness of the places. A place we enjoyed is crescent moon ( http://www.avirtualdominica.com/crescentmooncabins/index.html).

I don't mean to discourage you but Dominica is rustic compared to St. John. Dominica has a charm to its own but I'm reacting to some of the things you like to do ie, sailing, beaching, food, wine. I don't know of many sailing charters and the beaches can be the black sand type. Food can be a challenge, although there is a wonderful market on Saturdays in Rousseau. Dominica has lots of rain and the soil is wonderful for growing fruits and vegetables. So when we come from St. John we enjoy the fresh fruits and veggies...other than that do not expect much.

sorry I ramble check out http://www.avirtualdominica.com/ for more info.

Thanks Maddie, that wasn't rambling ,that was much appreciated useful information. My guess is that when I share this with my husband he won't be interested as he's a huge beach lover. The topography must not allow for much snorkling either it seems. I will check the sites you suggested but won't be surprised if we stick with our STJ plans as usual, never a disappointment! Thanks again!