Roseau the capital of Dominica, was originally named 'Sairi' by the Kalinago peoples who settled there. When the French arrived they renamed the area after ‘Roseaux’ which are the reeds which grow along the banks of the Roseau River that flows through the capital. Roseau the capital of Dominica, was originally inhabited by the Kalinago or Caribs. These resourceful people were able to flourish for quite some time before the French and the British colonised the island and eventually took over.
Roseau is situated on the west coast of the island and has a population of 68,925 which is a large percentage of the whole islands’ population.
The main part of Roseau lies south of the river, however there are also other parts which are north of the river. The two main areas to the north are Pottersville and Goodwill.
It is the main commercial city of Dominica and also it’s main hub of activity. Roseau is the main port of Dominica and receives hundreds of visitors every week who arrive on the ferries during a break from their caribbean cruise.
Many of these visitors take the opportunity to experience Roseau’s vibrant atmosphere and do some shopping. Of course there are also some delightful places to sample the fine foods of Dominica and the opportunity to pick up some exotic hand crafted gifts and souvenirs. In addition to the seafaring visitors many holidaymakers arrive at the nearby airports of Melville Hall which is about an hour away and Canefields which is only 15 minutes drive away.
Roseau is a colourful town with many colonial buildings and plenty of old style architechture, which includes:
The Fort Young HotelThe Victorian Memorial museum
The 18th century Roman Catholic cathedral
St. Georges’ Anglican church and
Government House.
Other places of interest include the wonderful market that takes place regularly at Old Plaza. Also there is the Botanical Gardens. Since it’s beginnings around 1890, the Roseau Botanical Gardens has become a national treasure. The Roseau Botanical Gardens is home to an aviary, which contains Sisserou parrots. Many Dominicans and visitors alike enjoy spending much leisure time there.