This Caribbean Island Is Back From the Brink—and Ready To Share Its Treasures With the World

Every product that appears on Condé Nast Traveler has been hand-picked by our editors. However, we might receive an affiliate commission if you make a purchase using one of our retail links.

The paintings of Italian-born artist Agostino Brunias, who made a profession of depicting the island in subdued, stylized settings that covered up the harsh realities of colonial control, were my first visual introduction to Dominica. However, as soon as I step onto its winding roads, which begin to twist shortly after I arrive, it becomes evident that this region, which is situated in the center of the Lesser Antilles’ curve, is anything but tame. The two-toned leaves of its bois canot trees, which change color from green to white when they sway in the wind, shimmer and bristle with the power of the volcano. It lulls with the erratic sound of its numerous waterfalls, scatters rainbows haphazardly across its breathtaking horizons, and enchants from the depths with its vibrant coral reefs. And it roars come storm season.

The indigenous Kalinago people of Dominica survived invasion by the French and British, who imposed slavery on the Africans who now make up four-fifths of the island’s population and left a linguistic legacy of English and French-based Creole, by mastering the lush tropical rainforest that covers more than 60% of the island. If you visit Trinidad for roti and Jamaica for jerk, you should travel to Dominica for green things like bush rum and flower teas. There are a ton of medicinal herbs in the forest.

The Jungle Bay Dominica resort, located smack dab in the center of the Soufrière jungles, leans into nature instead, maybe realizing the futility of fighting against the earth’s generosity. When I finally get there, the kitchen is closed. Joanne Hilaire, the operations manager, tells me that they never let guests go hungry, though, so I can feel the warmth of Dominica’s welcome. The cook is preparing an excellently stewed dish of beans with taro, rice, and plantain for our late dinner, off the menu, while I have a refreshing ginger-lime cocktail that is a local favorite. When I wake up the following morning, I find that my villa’s doors open onto a private veranda that faces southwest toward Soufrière Bay, where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean converge. I let the light wake me for the remainder of my stay by leaving my blinds open.

Liam Payne’s Final Words to His Partner Will Leave You Heartbroken

Kate Cassidy shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, including a note from Liam Payne, which revealed his plans for their future and showed the beautiful memories they shared.

Just three days after being seen in public for the first time since her boyfriend Liam’s unexpected passing, Kate posted the tribute on October 23, 2024. The lovely photos she shared touched fans deeply, but it was Liam’s note, given to her weeks before his death, that truly left fans heartbroken.

Kate’s post offered a look into the happy life she shared with the late “Teardrops” singer. Her images showed the couple going on adventures together.

Whether they were spending time outdoors or cozying up in snowy surroundings, her photos radiated pure love and joy.

Kate Cassidy shared an emotional Instagram post following Liam Payne’s death. In her message, she expressed her heartbreak and said she wished Liam could have seen the impact he had on the world and known how deeply he was loved.

Source: Instagram/kateecass

She wrote, “You are — because I can’t say were — my best friend, the love of my life, and everyone you touched felt just as special as I did. Your energy was contagious, lighting up every room.” Cassidy also shared how she is struggling to continue without him, describing Liam as “the best part” of her.

Source: Instagram/kateecass

Cassidy also shared how hard it is to move forward without Liam, saying she lost “the best part” of herself. She mentioned a note he had given her, adding, “I know we’ll be together forever, but not in the way we had planned. You’ll always be with me. I’ve gained a guardian angel.”

Source: Instagram/kateecass

One touching image showed a playful side of Liam, wearing pink Mickey Mouse ears and making a silly face at the camera, while Kate smiled next to him.

Source: Instagram/kateecass

Another image showed them dressed up, posing at an event surrounded by beautiful scenery. Another picture captured them with their dog, sharing a sweet moment with the happy pup.

In another image, Liam, bundled up in warm clothing, playfully posed near a signpost with multiple destination markers.

Source: Instagram/kateecass

One photo showed Kate caressing Liam’s face while he smiled, capturing a loving moment. Another image showed them sharing a kiss in front of a building, expressing their closeness.

Source: Instagram/kateecass

In the last photos, Cassidy posted a note she received from Liam that read, “me and Kate to marry within a year/engaged & 2gether 4ever 444,” written in pencil. With the note were two cards, one reading “444” and the other showing a rose drawing.

Source: Instagram/kateecass

Cassidy explained that the number “444” holds spiritual meaning, often appearing when someone feels alone, signifying angelic presence and reassurance.

Source: Instagram/kateecass

After Kate’s post, fans flooded her comments with messages of sorrow. One wrote, “This has broken me more than I thought possible ,” while another added, “So sorry for your loss  my heart is shattered .”

Source: Instagram/kateecass

Another commented with teary emojis, while someone else expressed support, saying, “I can’t even imagine what you’ve been through; you are so strong, love. Big hug 

In a past interview from 2019, Liam shared his thoughts on love, describing how he valued being with someone who was both his best friend and partner. He expressed joy in finding someone who supported him fully.

Source: Instagram/kateecass

Through Cassidy’s recent words, it’s clear her relationship with Liam was also special, filled with deep love and joy.

Recently, Kate was seen for the first time since Liam’s death. She was out in Florida with friends, buying pet supplies on October 20. Fans noticed her somber expression and showed their concern.

Source: Instagram/kateecass

One fan commented, “My heart is breaking for her…she looks so exhausted.” Another added, “She is devastated and heartbroken.”

Others found comfort in seeing her with their shared dog, Nala. “God bless her. I’m glad to see Nala with her. I hope Kate will be okay,” wrote one fan, while others commented on how sad and “empty” she appeared.

Fans also urged the paparazzi to give Cassidy privacy to grieve. One user sympathized, writing, “So sad to lose someone you love.” Another added personal reflections on loss, saying, “Prayers to her and the family.”

Source: Instagram/kateecass

Others expressed sadness, with comments like, “I can’t imagine how broken she is. So much happened in such a short time,” noting how “gutted” she looked.

One person reflected, “She looks sad; the guilt she must be feeling right now, wouldn’t have left him alone, especially under such difficult circumstances.” Another added, “She looks miserable. Prayers for her.”

Cassidy’s sighting came shortly after Liam’s death on October 16 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The 31-year-old singer fell from his third-story hotel room balcony. Although his passing initially seemed mysterious, it was later revealed he had been under the influence of strong drugs.

On social media, Cassidy reportedly paid tribute to him, asking for privacy to grieve, expressing how nothing felt real, and thanking fans for their love and support.

Related Posts

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*