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a virtual Dominica:
The Boiling Lake Guestbook
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a virtual Dominica: The Boiling Lake Guestbook |
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Name:
Emma Name:
Keith <dkeithshort@hotmail.com> Name:
Xander W. It was breathtaking ... and I don't mean just because of the sulphur! It still stands out as one of the most incredible natural sights I have ever seen. I would recommend this (and the 'mountain chicken'!) to anyone. Name:
Annie
Name:
M Carswell
Name:
Eliel, Ceci, Jeff & Heather This day hike took us into parts of Dominica that many people do not have the opportunity to see. I think I speak for the whole group in saying that we would definitely like to make this hike again! Name:
ken Name:
Andy Whitby Name:
Susanne Böse Name:
Joke van der Veere Name: ray byrne Email: ray@acat.com.au When: dec 1992 Again?: Of course! Comments: It was a big mistake not taking a guide, we could not remember our point of entry into the valley of desolation, thank God for camcorders the replay function got us back on track, back at Roxy`s tired but happy we had a well earned cold beer. GREAT DAY Name: Ken Butcher Email: kensiduk@yahoo.com When: August 2002 Again?: Yes Comments: I have done it twice now It was one of the single most amazing things I have ever dont in my life, thats why I had to do it twice, plus my camera ran out of film so I didnt get any good shots, I would strongly recommend this to anyone who asks, if you like Dominica then this is for you a true taste of Paradise Name: Hank Elliott & Jess Payton Email: hiknhank@planet-save.com When: Feb. 1999 Again?: Of course! Comments: We fell in love with Dominica and the Boiling Lake on our honeymoon. We will be back in March of 2004 for our 5th anniversary. I can't wait to walk through the mud and smell the sulfur again. Name: Jessica Harmotta Email: crazyblue@msn.com When: May 29,2003 Again?: Yes Comments: I think Dominica is a beautiful place! Name: Ted Dhooge Email: tdhooge@aol.com When: 1995 Again?: Of course! Comments: I'm planing the trip now, I will never forget the lake, hike, falls and people of Dominica, all wonderful. It was hard, breath taking and spiritual, I knew how wonderful nature really was after the island trip. The best part was I felt more like a local than a tourist, I was greated on every turn by warm and caring people, that loved to chat and laugh. I travel to the Islands often (have my own plane) but my heart is, and always will be in Dominica. This is by far the jewel of the Islands. Ted Name: Laura <domesticgoddess@attbi.com> When: April 27, 2003 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: If you were gong to design the perfect hike, this would be it. Nice 50 min. warm up and cool down at the begining and end. Fabulous mountain top views. Amazing geological formations, Hot springs to relax in before you start your return and a cool refreshing swim at the end, cold beer too. Challenging enough to make you feel you accomplished something but not so much that you over do it. My 50 something husband and I and our two teenage sons made it in about 8 hours. Name: Don & Brenda Dwyer <donbren@nycap.rr.com> When: 4/23/03 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: It is truly an unbelieable journey. Our guide ESSA, made our trip!!! We traveled with 4 adults & 3 children. Me being a smoker was the one everyone thought would'nt make it, but alais I with our guide was the 1st. to see the lake, But I came in DEAD last on the way back. Sight of a lifetime!!! A Must when your in beautiful Dominica. Name: Kevin Ferns <fernskevin@hotmail.com> When: 1986 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: My mother and father have travelled with few other doctors to experience what it is like travelling to the Boiling Lake one year before I was born. Name: Schiller <jschiller@lifespan.org> When: May, 1999 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Journeyed with Rob Soffer, Chris Wise, John Marinelli and my good friend Serge Bique. Loved every step of the beauty, though it is not for the faint of heart or weak knees. Name: hilary <hwisler@yahoo.com> When: several years ago Would you do it again? Yes Comments: I did it with Greg. http://www.waitukubuli.com/webpage/greg.htm Highly recommended. Name: Jeff MacGregor <jmac361@aol.com> When: March 13,2003 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: The most breathtaking and spectacular hike I've ever done. The fierce and rugged beauty of the terrain and rainforest was otherwordly. Despite what we heard one does not need to be a seasoned hiker to make this trek. You do need to be reasonably fit, however, but almost as important is to be mentally tough and determined to finish the hike. Very satisfying and rewarding. Our thnks to Ryley Rolle, our guide, who provided moral support when we needed it! Name: Tara <thefootstepsdieout@yahoo.com> When: March 13th 2003 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: This was by far the hardest thing I've ever done in my life. Going back up the squeeze was the worst, but it was all way worth it. Dominica definitely has their finales right. The Boiling Lake in the middle and that beautiful gorge at the end!! I will do it again someday when I can get back there. Name: anita & mike drake <jadzia38@aol.com> When: june 2002 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: yes, yes, of course - that's what our guide for the week alexis always says!! francis from st. joseph's took us to the lake. it was the most incredible experience we've had to date. we stayed at the picard beach cottages in portsmouth and are going back with our 2 daughters this june for 11 days. will they make the trek - not this year, but we'll do some easier hikes with them. Name: David Desjardins <docspots@hotmail.com> When: May, 2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: This hike was amazing, you went through so many different climates,and terrains. From rainforest, to mountain top, to volcanic wasteland (valley of desolation), to the lake itself (where we had eggsalad sandwiches for lunch, oops). From rain to sun to shady humid forest. My sandal broke on the way back at the top of sharks tooth mountain (that really muddy hill...you know..) so I had to walk out like the locals, with a bare foot. All those who wouldn't do it again must have forgetten having a Kubuli at the end, and jumping in Titou Gorge for a swim. The hike was long, and at times muddy, but totally worth it. Name: Esther Morton <esther.morton@virgin.net> When: Mar.2003 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: A unique experience not to be missed. If you are reasonably fit I would recommend anyone attempt the hike-such a sense of achievement when it is completed, and the view is thoroughly worth any discomfort. Wear walking boots, and no clothing that is important to you! Name: Oliver Rock <Raichu_X@hotmail.com> When: Jan., 2001 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Wow, what a trip! o^-_^o I have to say the Boiling Lake and the Valley of Desolation are two of the most amazing things I've ever seen. The hike through the jungle was amazing - I've never been anywhere like it before. I was JUST able enough to do the whole thing. Too bad I got sick to my stomach when we reached the lake - it DOES smell pretty bad. Anyways, it was wonderful and I'd LOVE to go back! And thanks to our guide Kelvin, you're great! o^-_^o Name: Michael Elwyn <michaelelwyn@blueyonder.co.uk> When: Summer 1990 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: One of the truly great 'discovery' experiences. I was aged 48,filming 'The Orchid House' for Channel 4- had dengue fever at the beginning of the shoot, but felt strong enough 4 weeks later to tackle The Lake. A 5am start from Laudat with a brilliant guide plus machete - all fine till top of the Mt Nicholls ridge where I saw coloured rags tied to a tree "that's where a German girl fell to her death" - the wind was now strong but luckily it was misty and as my guide urged me to run fast across a narrow section when the wind dropped I was unaware of the precipice either side. On the steep drop down to the Valley of Desolation I had severe vertigo, panicked, but the guide was brilliant and 'talked' me down. I remember the Lake so vividly - I've lost my photos but they are still in my head- we ate fried egg sandwiches above the Lake in the rain, which was now heavy. The return trip seemed to go quickly. I dreaded the dash across the ridge, but it was OK. I was back at The Anchorage Hotel by 2pm -next day my calf muscles were like rock. I could hardly walk ! Unforgettable. Name: Paul Mortise <PMortise@aol.com> When: August 2001 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: Keep your camera, wallet and lunch in a water-proof bag, and be sure to stop off in Breakfast River! This was an an amazing trip that gave me a lifetime of good memories! I MUST do that again! Samantha Williams <willsamantha4@yahoo.com> When: Would you do it again? No Comments: I really enjoyed your site. Thanks Samantha Williams Name: Liz <e.coombes1@ntlworld.com> When: jan2003 on honeymoon Would you do it again? Yes Comments: A very challenging hike, but unique. I highly recommend our guide Brian Nelson of Trafalgar. Can be contacted via Papillote Resort Name: Claudia & Osborne Alexander <calex1351@msn.com> When: Reunion 1999 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: It was amazing, we lived half of our lives home and now we could see the beauty of our Country. I would definitely visit there on my next visit home. Everything was so fresh and living in the US it makes a difference when we can make time to breath the fresh air of our homeland Dominica Name: Brice not from Nice <brice.huard@wanadoo.fr> When: June 1998 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: A difficult but very pleasant race with our guide Sam. You can ask for Sam in the village because he's very warmful and walk to the top with a basket full of grapefruits to stop our "fringales" Name: Tom Cherry <tc@coptechinc.com> When: 1998 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Great hike but not for the faint of heart! Name: Kristian Rakvåg <mrakvaag@online.no> When: Never Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Hello! Lovely site you've got here. Please visit me and sign guestbook at http://home.no.net/krrakvag/indexeng.htm Tnx in pre! Cheers Kris - Norway Name: anousheualie <anousheualie@hotmail.com> When: 1994 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: I am a native from Dominica, but I have resided in Chicago for the past ten years. Boiling lake is just one of many features about this beautiful and tranquil island. It is just of the many reasons why I am proud to be citizen of the island of Dominica. Name: Barcelona Hotels Tours <linkexchange@hotels-tours.com> When: always Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Barcelona Hotels Tours Amsterdam Hotels Tours Athens Hotels Tours Berlin Hotels Tours London Hotels Tours Paris Hotels Tours Rome Hotels Tours Vienna Hotels Tours IFX Financial Group UçAk BiLeTi Name: Barcelona Hotels Tours <linkexchange@hotels-tours.com> Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Barcelona Hotels Tours Amsterdam Hotels Tours Athens Hotels Tours Berlin Hotels Tours London Hotels Tours Paris Hotels Tours Rome Hotels Tours Vienna Hotels Tours IFX Financial Group UçAk BiLeTi Name: Sally Nowlan When: Dec 2002 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: I am so glad I was persuaded to take up the challenge of this great hike to the wonderful boiling lake. My guide, Peter Green from the Cherry Lodge guest house was an enthusiastic and supportive companion for the trip. Name: Lee S <thumpers@visuallink.com> When: April 2001 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: The only reason that this hike is not on every hikers life list is that they don't know about it. The whole hike is absolutely amazing. The climbs are steep and rugged, but the views are incredable. Then you enter the Valley or Desolation; unique. Finally the lake itself. After a good hard workout a quick dip in Titou Gorge or if youe lucky someone will show you the hot springs below the gorge Name: Tyson Bartlett <bartlett30@attbi.com> When: December 29, 2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: This hike was very difficult for me in several sections, even though I had done a similar hike in duration and length in Texas. The trail was very muddy mainly because all of the rain drains through the trail. By far the hardest part was leaving the Valley of Desolation on the return trip. This is because the trail is very steep, you must lift your legs up a good distance, and the mud can make it difficult for you to lift your legs up in the first place. However, a large portion of the hike goes through relatively flat ground (although muddy) with only a gentle incline. Name: Jeannine <jeanninehuber@hotmail.com> When: Nov. 2002 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: When we were almost there, and on the way out when my legs were shaking, I thought, I'm glad I did this, it was super cool, but I don't need to do it again. Before I even got home, I decided I will definately do it again, gotta get my nature loving brothers/friends there with me. Name: lisette van roosendael <lisettevanroosendael@msn.com> When: 1994 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: The sound of the wind high above the valley of desolation was unique en made me feel very small. Boiling an egg in the lake was fun. Anyway, I just love everything about Dominica. Name: michael rosenthal <mlrcars@aol> When: december 2002 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: it is worth the hike, but I would only do it again if my daughter, unable to hike because of her young age, wanted to see it. very ambitious hike for me. Name: Juliet <juliesan@hotmail.com> When: August2002 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: Was exhaustive,but challenging,especially for one not in good physical condition,talked about turning back every now and then,,,but did it. Name: Wendy <wlataille@rogers.com> When: August 1996 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: I was 18 when I had the pleasure of hiking/climbing/crawling (call it what you want) to the Boiling Lake. It was awesome and I'd definitely do it again! (Maybe) Name: John Tobin <cybrjet@erie.net> When: Nov. 2002 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: It is truly a unforgettable hike. One of the most beautiful places I,ve ever seen. Our guide (Alphil) was really patient with us.We have a tremendous sense of accomplishment. Name: Lucia <sensualcl@hotmail.com> When: June 2000, july 2002, Would you do it again? Yes Comments: It was fantastic,the view undescribable. For the lovers of the great outdoor I dear to to Try this hike.(must be physically fit) It was the best hike ever for me. Simple Spectacular. Name: QAHAL YAHWEH YOUTH GROUP <LOVERDAN33@HOTMAIL.COM> When: SUNDAY 25, OCTOBER Would you do it again? Yes Comments: we had a flashing time during the walk and afters seeing the wondrous creations of yahweh we celebrated with pitures and alot of food which made the trails easier to bare. It was alot of fun Name: Marlene Shillingford rom Canada When: October 2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: The hike to the Boiling Lake was the most incredible thing I have ever done. My family lives in Dominica and it is the most beautiful place I have ever been. Special thanks to Angela and my brother Dave for making this happen for me. It's certainly a journey that I will never forget!! Name: Thomas from Switzerland <trohrbach@bluewin.ch> When: june 2002 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: It was a realy great trip with some dominican friends! We did the whole way from Grand Fond to the Boiling Lake and back in 10 hours... Name: nicki, ken, jo & michael <nicki169@hotmail.com> When: August 2002 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: ...and I am in two weeks with more firends visiting us from the UK. The hike was the most challenging I have ever done and gave me a great sense of achievement and was an amzaing experience. Our guide Alan Daraux, from Laudat, was a star and carried the biggest pineapple we'd ever seen all the way to the top for our refeshment and gave us the will to carry on. All in all Dominica is a rare gem in this world of commercialism and pollution and I hope it stays that way. A special place to recharge your body and soul. Name: Sherrill Smith & Ryan Crets <sherrill04@msn.com> When: June 2002 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: I'm 41 years old and was 10 days away from running my first marathon, so I figured I was in shape enough to do the hike--yikes!! This hike is definately tough, lots of up and down the sides of mountains, temperature and weather changes, mud and tree roots and hot springs, you name it, they had it, except for a water fountain! My 15 year old son had no problem whatsoever! I was happy that we had read the info on the website before going, otherwise my camera would have been ruined, as it rained the whole time we were in the rainforest (go figure)! It would be advisable to also bring along some tissues in a plastic bag, as the condensation from all the humidity and temp changes was terrible on the camera lens. All in all it was an incredible journey. One of the things that makes it so memorable was that it WAS so difficult. At one point when we were manuvering down an extremely muddy mountain side and Ryan slipped and kick me in the but, nearly knocking me down, I began to laugh at the absurdity of the whole thing--the fact that we had voluntarily set out and we were paying good money to be punished for the good part of a day. But seriously, it was an incredible experience and I am thankful that I was able to share it with my son. Name: Jeffrey Burton <bluejay120@hotmail.com> Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: It was a very good hike even though people said I could not do it because i am ten, but i surprised them by running the whole way through. Name: Janie Jeremy & Family <sweetjanie1@hotmail.com> When: Augut 1997 and Nov 1999 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: We enjoyed the boiling Lake, it took our breath away to see a lovely site. The child were so excited to reach the top and look down on our beautiful country. That an exeperince not to be missed. We will visit over and over again. We will be there for the 25th Independent and I know I will reach to the Boiling Lake without fail. Name: Stan & Laura <trumflu@aol.com> When: February 2001 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: It was grueling and very wet and extremely muddy (the weather was laughing at our Gore-tex). We had lots of wind and rain and passed many people on the trail who were turning back. We kept asking our guide, Aaron Rolle from Laudat, if we should also turn back and he very confidently assured us that in his capable hands, he would deliver us safely to the Lake and back. On the way back, the only thing that enabled me(Stan) to muster up enough willpower to make it was the constant thought of a hot bath in the hotel room (which I might add was the most enjoyable bath of my entire life). The Valley of Desolation was other-wordly and almost worth the effort. If we did it again, we might think about training a little more and would certainly prefer a dry, sunny day if possible. Aaron Rolle was great and kept us optimistic practically the whole time. Name: kate <kate.dart@pioneertv.com> Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: We went with Kelvin, Stanley and Gary as organised by Bobby Fredericks and Ras Tours. Its one of the hardest things I've ever done, and if I ever do it again next time I'm not taking 3 tonnes of camera gear (thanks guys for carrying it!). Motivation also not helped by watching England losing to Brazil at 2.30am that morning. Everyone fantastic, helpful and kind - many thanks, Dominica absolutely beautiful. Name: Lee Wolstenholme <Penny Black,by steamship.> When: 1990 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: Shot of rum and anything's possible. Name: Ross alumni: Sal & Harvey <sskeivys@pol.net> When: 1982 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Back then it was free...and no visible trail, longer than expected, and more spectacular than expected. Calilu soup afterwards was delicious. Hello to all friends on the island and alumni. Name: andra robin <queen_ro81@hotmail.com> When: 1988 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: it was alot of fun. its one of my best time spent in dominica.i went with a church group and it was awsome!!! Name: herman <hthijs@iae.nl> When: nov 1993 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Where is my guide Peter Mason gone? Let's go again in 2003 doc Name: Terry Whitehead <whitehtr@ncaur.usda.gov> When: August 10, 2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Great hike, thighs sore the next day. Boiling Lake and the Valley of Desolation worth the trip. Would do it again!! Name: Janet <mermaid676@hotmail.com> When: June 2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: It would be rude not to do it again! But - think eco-tourism & sustainable tourism – a cable-car is just sacrilege. Would you build a cable-car up Everest? Please look at what other countries are doing – perhaps like New Zealand you could think about helicopering the rich, unfit tourists in and the rest of us can walk. Don’t spoil the very thing that is so special. Name: Dennis Howell <howell_dw@yahoo.com> When: June 2001 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: I've never experienced anything like it - a truly awesome experience. Anyone who completes this HIKE deserves bragging rights. Name: Nicki Howard <nickihoward26@hotmail.com> When: July 7th, 2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: After being in Dominica for nearly a year, I finally climbed to The Boiling Lake today. Excellent. Will surely be sore tomorrow though! Name: Roadrunner Thorsten, Eagleeyed Peter, Wellblech Amanda Marco, Jackie X Wencke <marco.matzken@gmx.de> When: 22.06.2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: It started with the "Maifetenwette". Marco Z. and Birgit F. did this tour in february. Marco bets: if we survive the tour, he will marry his girlfriend. Thanks to our guide Andrea, WE DID IT!! Peter finished without any muddiving. Unbelievable. Thorsten smiled the whole trip. Wencke tried to follow Peter without success. And me, I nearly collapsed. But again. We did it. Strike! Name: Barry & Katina <barrysbest@aol.com> When: June 6th 2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: We went with our 3 boys 14,16,18 and a fantastic guide, Mr Homid Laurent...It was strenious for me and my wife...a piece of cake for the boys who are in excellent shape...Don't miss this site...not for the faint of heart, out of shape or the coach potatoe...a must see for those who can!...PS..wear good hiking shoes and take an extra pair( I meet a guy who blew out his new pair on the way up)..Also...take time for the HOT Tub in the small river coming back into the valley after your visit to the lake...It will help you get relaxed for the long trip back.....We hope to be able to visit there again in the years to come Name: Jessica Gregoire <jessicagregoire@hotmail.com> When: 1999 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Well I'm a Dominican, and I must say that I am one of the proud citizens of that country. Our boiling lake is one of the most beutiful sites in the entire world!! Believe me, I am not kidding!! The trek to the boiling lake is the most awesome and dumbfounding experience you will ever encounter. You can do nothing but stare and marvel at all the nature that Dominica has to express. Dominica is a true jewel and gift to the Carribbean, and it certainly earns its name as the nature island of the caribbean!! But really I don't think my body will ever recover from the exertion of the hike. I would not be able to endure another crusade of that sort, but it was certainly worth the effort, a thousand times even!!! Name: DON Manno <don-manno@caramail.com> When: 05/06/02 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: I knew the more beautiful beaches were in the Caribean Islands but I didn't know Dominica was that lovely. I will do my best to visit that nice City. CONGRATILATIONS Name: Michael H Serzynski <exadore@megapathdsl.net> When: April 25th, 2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: This hike was the most strenuous thing I have ever endured - I could barely walk by the time we made it back. Cheers to Daphne, Amy, Dan, and most of all Riley, our guide !!! Name: Mario Hecktor <m-hecktor@hauser-exkursionen.de> When: 1994 (4x), 1995, 1996, 1997, 1999 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: I've done it several times and has been always a pleasure. Each trip has had it's own fascination, it's own atmosphere. Always at the end I started nearly running down to get my refreshment in the Titou Gorge. And how the place has changed. In 1994 there was still nothing. Now we have like a bar and fascilities. Amazing, but sometimes I wonder if every natural site has to be turned into a spot of entertainment. Hopefully the cable car project will not be succesful to avoid that this wonderful part of the island region will be spoiled and overcrowded. Name: Doctors luke,bryce,rob etc <lukeyball@hotmail.com> When: summer 2000 whilst working at St Margarets hospital. Would you do it again? Yes Comments: coolest thing I have ever seen. planning to take others there to see it in the future. Although i did fall in the boiling mud in the valley of desolation, my trainers were never the same again. If going take at least 4 litres of drinking water. Name: Petra Riviere <p_riviere@yahoo.com> When: 1997 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: It was a lot of fun at the beginning, but it got harder and harder. I could not walk without pain for a whole week!Also, I'm very short, and those wooden steps built in the last few years were sometimes too steep for me to climb! After a while, I kept missing the step and dipping my foot into the mud below! Needless to say, I had to throw away that pair of socks and dye my jeans before I could wear them again in public! It was all worth it in the end, because I went with a friend who was a first-time visitor to the island (I was born in Dominica but left at age 4). Although she had spent much of her childhood in Indonesia hiking in its impressive rainforest, verdant Dominica left her in awe. She ended up throwing away the sneakers that made it to the Boiling Lake. Name: Christian Volney <chrisv@afldisplay.com> When: 1974 and then again in 1999 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: I remember as a young adventurous lad growing up in Roseau, the Rolle and Toulon boys from Roseau and myself used to go on weekend trips to different (very difficult) locations throughout the Island. I remember my first trip in 1974 to the Boiling lake, eating fresh water crest along the route. back then it was an adventure and a way of life, these excursions. My return trip in 1999 was a lot more difficult as I have aged an not as eager an explorer as I once was. I must say that the beauty I once new in 74 was relived in 1999 and I was amazed at how little the experience had changed. Name: Michael Shillingford <michael.shillingford@ntlworld.com> When: I Haven't!! Would you do it again? Yes Comments: I am so sorry not to have had the opportunity to walk to boiling lake when I went to Dominica.My father is from Dominica and came to the UK in the late fifties where he met my mother.I saw pretty much the bulk of Dominica but have always regretted not going to boiling lake.All is not lost as now since the loss of my mother and his retirement my father has now gone back to Dominica to live and so myself and my brother and sisters have a great opportunity to do the trek!! Great web-site by the way and please no cable car.......there is such little true wilderness left in this world. Name: Michael Shillingford <michael.shillingford@ntlworld.com> When: I Haven't!! Would you do it again? Yes Comments: I am so sorry not to have had the opportunity to walk to boiling lake when I went to Dominica.My father is from Dominica and came to the UK in the late fifties where he met my mother.I saw pretty much the bulk of Dominica but have always regretted not going to boiling lake.All is not lost as now since the loss of my mother and his retirement my father has now gone back to Dominica to live and so myself and my brother and sisters have a great opportunity to do the trek!! Great web-site by the way and please no cable car.......there is such little true wilderness left in this world. Name: jasmine <107968@gci.stvital.org> When: 04/03/02 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: very beautiful place Name: Lorina Fontaine When: October 2001 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: I was glad when it was all over - I'm not a hiker or someone who enjoy's such pursuits I think you need to be to get the most out of the hike and you need to be fit!! Make sure you get a decent guide because ours was rubbish (I mention no names) and was more concerned with getting home and catching Agouti!!!! Name: Shirley Bruney <shirls4you@hotmail.com> When: 1999 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Man, you can see Paris and die if you want, but baby you've got to get to Dominica to see nature's beauty, our boiling lake. Name: Heidi and Klaus Mohr <H.design@t-online.de> When: In February 1999 and February 2002 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: We went twice with our guide Prosper, we feel he is the best, to guide this trip. Even weather was worst as the first time, we enyoed it very much and we will do it again, hoping, weather will be than a little bit better !!! Name: Sarah Staiger <sjstaiger@mindspring.com> When: January 1993 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: It was hard work but worth it (even though knees are more creaky now). Name: KEMONE JEAN-PIERRE <babekim66@hotmail.com> When: I tool the trip in 1997 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: At first I said I would never go back but I have to it's a breath taking experience. Name: Mr. H. Davis {Mr. Musical} <belovedprinceofpeace@rogers.com > When: asap Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Truely spectacular landscape and scenery... God has really done a Magnificent work of Creation... Name: Carl <carlhaggman@hotmail.com> When: 1989 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: Absolutely, anytime again! It was an unforgettable experience. Hardly anywhere in the world can you experience such natural wonders as on that hiking route to Boiling Lake (and many are the places I have seen...). Those days we were two young scandinavian students from Finland who hiked all the way up to the lake together with two french botanists who just happened by occasion to be on the same path. These two very nice botanists really knew a lot about the vegetation, and I´m sure we saw quite much more than on an ordinary trip through the forest (something for the tourist guides to think about?). The numerous vegetation zones and unbelievable flowers that stay hidden behind the branches, that only well trained eyes could present for novices like us, were just breathtaking. All the different types of rain forest and unbelievable flowers on the lavafield near the boiling area - it all made our trip just unforgettable. (I only lost the friendly botanist´s addresses (and names!). It would be very nice to hear Your experienes too if you happen to read this!) and then, an: IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE GOVERNMENT OF DOMINICA! You have one of the "Seven Wonders" of the nature right there in your country. It´s one of the most beautiful places on planet earth and as a man from one of the most naturally preserved parts of Europe I am very concerned about the story of building a CABLE CAR to the site. What a shame if it becomes just another touristic attraction with souvenir shops and ticket sales and all the negative effects on nature that too much commerce is unevidently bringing. Now it still is a truly unique place to visit. Make it a natural reserve and let people enjoy the unspoiled wonders of Dominica, as always before, and make it possible even for the future generations! Name: John & Kristen <kkandjohn@hotmail.com> When: 1999 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Hiked it on our honeymoon. Definitely one of the highlights of our three Island stay. Dominica itself is outstanding. We stayed at the Papillotte , and I can't recommend it highly enough. Perfect hot springs to soak in post hike. We WILL return!! Name: David Ivey-Soto <chefdavidi@mac.com> When: 1994 and 2002 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: One of the most gruelling one day hikes you will ever find. Yet, different temperate zones, different colors, different temperatures, and vastly chaning altitudes make this one of the most enjoyable and worthwhile hikes I have ever made -- and I have hike all over the world! I need to return to Dominica several more times in my lifetime and I will keep going back as long as during each trip I can make the hike! There are a lot of other great things to see and do in Dominica, but this is a must. The others are wonderful and round out a wonder smorgasbord. Name: glen <glennydan69@hotmail.com> When: before hurricane david Would you do it again? Yes Comments: i went on a trip with my class from goodwill school.i was smaller then,but for sure i would make that run again for the fun. Name: Ed & Mary Ann Tereschyn Shillingford) <ednmary@mergetel.com> When: February 2002 on a cruise....stopping over Would you do it again? Yes Comments: We are coming on a Island hopping Cruise,in February 2002. Interested in meeting some of Mary Ann's "Distant Relatives". Her family came originally from England, brothers went their different ways.....!!!! Name: Ed & Mary Ann Tereschyn Shillingford) <ednmary@mergetel.com> When: February 2002 on a cruise....stopping over Would you do it again? Yes Comments: We are coming on a Island hopping Cruise,in February 2002. Interested in meeting some of Mary Ann's "Distant Relatives". Her family came originally from England, brothers went their different ways.....!!!! Name: Michel Dreijer (NL) <michel.dreijer@12move.nl> When: Januari 1988 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: During my solo sailing trip, Netherlands - Cuba - Netherlands, I was happily surprised of the beaty of Dominica in comparison with the other Caribic Islands. 'Slow' tourism, friendly people and beautiful nature, of which the hike to and the scenery of the Boiling Lake was a definite highlight! Name: hennie ten Dam <info@ballooningcomp.nl> When: januari 1998 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: Words cannot describe the beauty of this tropical island. The Boiling Lake was the highlight of our trip. The hike is worth the pain Name: Tom Cherry <tc@coptechin .com> When: Feb. 2000 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Great, challenging hike. A little bit of everything. Not for the faint of heart! Name: faisal alam. <faisalwithGOD@yahoo.com> When: pakistan Would you do it again? Yes Comments: GOD help you and your staff.my name is faisal alam.I like you and your said.you are please help for visa for the your city.thanks our all. Name: George Bunting <GBun258003@aol.com> When: sevral times in the 1960,s and once in 1972 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Having grown up on Dominica, I had the chance to visit the boiling lake sevral times, the most memorable time was with Pete Brand shortly after he opened Island House hotel and blazed a new trail from his home to the lake, I reccomend the trip to anyone planning on visiting Dominica, I do hope things are left in as natural a state as possible and no cable way is ever constructed as that would ruin the whole experience. Name: Naiwu Osahon <obw@infoweb.abs.net> When: 12 December, 2001 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Beautiful country. Coming from Africa, you are home from home. I will visit the country soon. Name: Naiwu Osahon <obw@infoweb.abs.net> When: 12 December, 2001 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Beaautiful country. Coming from Africa, you are home from home. I will visit the country soon. Name: Karen & Fred Bailey <karen.fred@att.net> When: May 2000 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Anybody who says this hike is easy is LYING! But we would do it again in a heartbeat. This is the most beautiful hike on earth as far as we're concerened. All of your problems seem to fade away once you realize that your climbing with no gear and that EVERY step counts. But untouched beauty is not easy to get to. Name: George Hunt <george.hunt@education.ed.ac.uk> When: 10 timmes beween 1981-85, again in 1997 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: My first trips to the lake were just after David, when I was working as a VSO at t he teachers' collge and there wasn't much of a track. I went with two friends, Chris and Lynne, and we got lost in the valley. Made it on a second occasion guided by Sammie John-Baptiste of Laudat, accompaniied by Allan, Clare, Chris and Lynne. third time was with the Canadian OCOD team, most of whom had to abandon the attempt, but a small and happy team made it. It was good to go back in 97 and do it again. The track is much clearer now and theer is a bridge over the river were once you had to creep over pipes, but it's still a great adventuure and I'll always goi back for all the happy memories the hike holds. I think the cable car idea is not good. Name: Cecile & Christian <secille@club-internet.fr> When: 1999-1998-1997 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: Thousand thank's to Dominican people who protect mother land. We had three trip to boiling lake and different nice walk in dominica . We always stay by Bobby at Cocoa Cottage at trafalgar and appreciate so much Dominica. Hope come back soon!!! jah bless you Name: GAIL <megahot16@yahoo.com> When: last night Would you do it again? Yes Comments: hi people i am 18 years old originally from Dominica. I am from Pointe Carib. I currrently reside in the Newq York City area. However presently i am in school in New Jersey city, where i attend college at Sainte Peters College Name: John Roemer IV <roemeriv@juno.com> When: 3 December 1988 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: I've hiked & run all over the place, and rode my bicycle across the US, but nothing beats the walk to the Boiling Lake. My wife and I went with a guide named Roy and saw no one -- the seclusion was great. A cable car is a truly awful idea. PS. Independent corroboration of a swim in the 204-degree would be nice -- this sounds patently false. Name: Thomas Lemrow Jr <tigger_1331@yahoo.com> When: April 1996 Would you do it again? Of course! Comments: When I found myself in Dominica for 8 wks with the United States Army I was in awe with the Mountains, rivers, watefalls and the beaches. The People of the Island are by far the best people I have ever encountered. As I began to become friends with the Natives I heard of this Boiling Lake! I could not even imagine the intesity of it. So I ventured out to find it on my fisrt day off in country. We rented a car and were off totally unsuccessfull. However it was not a total waste. As it was the prettiest secinary I had yet seen in my life. Still nothing could prepare me for the next day that I would have off and be afforded the oppurtunity of a native police officer as a guide! we crossed 5 mountain ranges and walked thru WALLS of rain that seemed to have a precise direction to them. Then there was the Valley of Deselation, with the sulfur stream that the natives bottle the water for cleaning their skin. As I climbed to the top of the crater that holds the Boiling lake I could barly see the lake for all the steam and fog that the preceeding rain had left behind. When it did finnaly clear I could not believe my eyes this myth was not a myth at all 3hrs of hiking to see the most amazing sight I had ever laid my eyes on! It seemed to be a perfect cicle and about a acre or more big just boiling like a big kettel. I snapped picture after picture of this sight for fear that I might never make it there again. But I assure you that I WILL and I cant wait. If you ever have the oppurtunity to take this venture it will be a challenging one for some and a breeze for others but I promisse you it will be worth every minute of your time. Name: Rahiel Housey <rahielh@hotmail.com> When: October 1999 Would you do it again? Perhaps Comments: It was a very monumental experience. I wrote a lengthy article on it for the Caribean paper here in Michigan, which I will share with you if you email me. Name: Sandra Blanchard <sandra.blanchard@opportunit.co.uk> When: January 1999 Would you do it again? Yes Comments: This is a particularly fond memory for me, that is climbing up to the top of the boiling lake, not only that it was the most beautiful site I have seen so far in my life, or that the climb reduced me one dress size, or that completing the challenge and being in a real rainforest did very much for my reputation when I returned home but the most important part of it being that my tour guide for the day turned out to become my beloved husband and we have now been happily married for two years and have been blessed with a beautiful son. | |