When it comes to all things about the Caribbean island of Dominica, there may be no one better than Gregor Nassief to show you the way.
Born in the dreamy destination where he still lives, Nassief owns two of the island’s standout hotels: Secret Bay, a 27-villa property that is hands down one of the most luxurious resorts in the Caribbean and the most exclusive place to stay in Dominica, and Fort Young Hotel, a landmark waterfront property with 100 rooms in the capital city of Roseau.
Often confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is another place all together. “It’s an off-the-beaten-path, volcanic island,” Nassief says, “defined by soaring mountains, dramatic waterfalls, natural hot springs, and 365 rivers—one for every day of the year.” The island is home to one of only two boiling lakes on Earth, along with the Caribbean’s longest hiking route, the Waitukubuli National Trail, which stretches from north to south across its mountainous spine.
Out at sea, Dominica offers another treasure.the world’s only year-round resident pod of sperm whales. “It’s one of the few places on the planet where sightings are genuinely reliable,” Nassief says.
The island nation is also a cultural wonder: Nassief shares that Dominica is the last stronghold of the Kalinago people, the Indigenous inhabitants of the Caribbean. “Their traditions and craftsmanship are still very much alive here,” he says, “and they continue to shape the island’s identity.”
What Dominica isn’t, according to Nassief, is a mass-tourism destination. “This isn’t about manufactured experiences,” he says. “It’s about discovery, authenticity, and real connection—to nature, to heritage, and to something deeper within yourself.”
When to Go
“There’s really no wrong time to visit,” says Gregor Nassief. With roughly 60 percent of Dominica covered in rainforest, the island stays lush year-round. “The mist and rain actually bring the island to life,” he adds, turning waterfalls thunderous and the landscape impossibly green.
Even hurricane season has its upside. Both Secret Bay and Fort Young Hotel offer “Hurricane Romance” packages during the wilder months, complete with flexible cancellation policies. “They’ve become surprisingly popular,” Nassief says—proof that Dominica isn’t just a fair-weather destination.
How Long to Stay
“As long as possible,” Nassief says. Travelers from the U.S. typically stay four to seven nights, while guests from the U.K. and Europe often stretch their trips to eight or ten. Between hiking, river swims, whale encounters, and cultural excursions, he adds, “you won’t run out of things to do.”
Who It’s For
“The explorer,” Nassief says. “Someone seeking connection, authenticity, and the thrill of finding something real and unspoiled.”
Where to Stay
For luxury immersed in nature, Secret Bay is unmatched—one of the most luxurious resorts in the Caribbean and the most exclusive place to stay in Dominica.
Set high on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, its villas are designed for privacy with expansive decks, and plunge pools. Service is impeccable, dining is destination-worthy, and experiences—from guided hikes and beachfront massages to private boat excursions—are tailored to the guest.
For a more urban base, Fort Young Hotel offers a different vantage point. Located right on the waterfront in Roseau, the property is bang in the middle of the capital’s shops, restaurants, and dive sites, plus close to Dominica's mountains, rivers, and trails.
What to Do
Nassief’s must-dos no surprise here- are adventure heavy: cruising the Indian River; exploring Syndicate Forest; hiking the Freshwater Lake loop, Middleham Falls, and the Boiling Lake; soaking in the sulphur baths at Ti Kwen Glo Cho; and visiting the Kalinago Territory.
He also recommends heading east to explore Rosalie Bay, Citrus Creek, and Victoria Falls, or tackling the historic Maroon Trail—also known as Jacko’s Steps—with a local guide.
Where to Eat
The dining scene is defined by the land and what grows locally. Nassief points to fine dining at Secret Bay, hearty Dominican fare at Zeb & Zepis in Pont Cassé, and relaxed city meals at Fort Young or Lacou.
For a deeper sense of place, he recommends agro-tourism experiences like Free Up Farms in Syndicate and Soma Garden in Marigot. “It’s a great way to understand how deeply food is tied to the island,” he says.
Where to Shop
For souvenirs with meaning, start at the Kalinago Barana Auté Cultural Village for handmade crafts, baskets, jewelry, and carvings. The Roseau Old Market is ideal for local spices and everyday goods.
For something more curated, Nassief suggests the Bwa Denn Shoppe at Secret Bay, which brings together local crafts, specialty products, and polished resort wear.
The True Luxury
Nassief is clear that Dominica’s greatest luxury isn’t found in a villa or a view. “It’s the people,” he says. “Warm, friendly, kind, and sincere—you’ll make meaningful connections here that stay with you long after you leave.”
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