Last Updated on May 11, 2021 by Darrif William
It’s estimated that by 2028 over 70% of office professionals are going to be working from the comforts of their homes, meaning staycations and longer overseas holidays are on the cards for those happy to sacrifice a few hours on the beach to work remotely, instead. Or, if you’re keen to make up for lost time (who isn’t?) there is another way to upgrade your current desk views from your street, to swathes of sand and endless seas…
Digital nomadics rejoice, as the balmy island nation of Dominica in the Caribbean has recently launched a ‘Work In Nature’ (WIN) scheme, allowing tourists to relocate to its tropical shores for up to 18 months to work and live remotely on the island. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well you better believe it, because it’s an actual thing.
Ok, what’s the catch?
Wanderlusts can apply for a single visa for $800 or whisk the while family away for $1,200, with children provided access to local schools under a ‘family bundle’. However, candidates must have the expectation of earning at least $50,000 to help support themselves or their families during their time on the isle. As part of your WIN visa, you’ll receive modern healthcare facilities and a chance to volunteer in NGO (non-governmental) programmes while you’re here.
Now we’ve cleared up the rules and regs, let’s skip to the important part – how you can spend your lunch break…
1 – Lazy beach afternoons
The Caribbean islands are famous for hosting some of the most spectacular beaches in the world, and Dominica certainly stays true to this claim. From black-sand stretches to beaches that back onto stunning National Parks, you’ll find a welcoming spot to sink your toes into for an hour or two. Mero, Pointe Baptiste and Hampstead are a few of our favourites to lounge on.
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2- Watersports
Dominica is a haven for watersports fans, with a host of splash-tastic activities available to try your hand at. Discover thriving underwater coral gardens when you swim and snorkel in Dominica’s transparent waters, with a host of colourful reefs teeming with tropical marine life. The Champagne Reef got its name from the bubbling waters rising from the volcanic thermal springs at the bottom of the ocean, and is one of the best spots for diving. Its rainbow-coloured aquatic fauna and creature sightings including octopus, trumpet fish, hawksbill turtles and seahorses put it at the top of many divers’ bucket lists.
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3 – Nature Hikes
Stretch your legs after all that time at your desk with some of the isles beautiful natural hiking trails. You’ll pass awe-inspiring waterfalls, boiling volcanic lakes and hidden corners of the island you never knew existed when you explore what’s nicknamed The Nature Island. The trails can be a little rocky, but difficulty levels are moderate, and a tour guide is recommended. A few of the best trails include Jaco Steps, Boiling Lake, Titou Gorge and Waitukubuli National Trail.
4 – Go Whale Watching
Did you know that Dominica is the only country in the world where sperm whales reside all year long? Hop on a boat excursion and discover what beautiful marine creatures lie beneath the calm turquoise Caribbean Sea, with over 20 species to discover. Keep your eyes peeled for the likes of false killer whales, pygmy whales and humpbacks among other species – it’s worth noting that sightings are most common between November and March.
5 – Boiling Lake
Crowned as one of the most popular attractions in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, is the murky bubbling waters of the boiling lake nestled a three-hour-hike deep in the lush forest. Caused by a crack in the earth allowing hot gases to vent from molten lava, the temperature in the centre of this cauldron-like lake reaches heights of 92°C – now that’s toasty! While we don’t advise you take a dip, it’s well worth a visit.