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Dominica: Nightlife

Nightlife on Dominica is subdued, so if you’re looking for something more than a laid-back hotel bar or a local watering hole, skip the island altogether and head straight to Jamaica. There are literally only a few dozen bars on the entire island; places where the locals go to catch up and where the occasional tourist grabs a nightcap. Call ahead before heading out for the evening – hours vary and places occassionally close down for days at a time at the whim of the owners.

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Balas and Boardwalk Bars These two bars, both located on the waterfront outside of Fort Young, are the best spots for happy hour and live music like jazz and jing ping (local Dominican folk music).There’s usually a hubbub of activity whenever a cruise ship is at port. Rum punch is the drink of choice. Roseau; Victoria St; 767-448-5000; www.fortyounghotel.com
smart splurge | bar

Cellars Bar Cellars bar is what was left of the Sutton Place Hotel in downtown Rouseau after Hurricane Mitch in 1979. Though the hotel has been rebuilt the original stone cellar - once a storehouse for wine, rum, and spices - remains and has become an pub of sorts where every Wednesday is Soca Night, attracting top musicians from around the island. Closed for the summer. Rouseau; 25 Old Street; 767-449-8700; www.suttonplacehoteldominica.com

O’Byrne’s Irish Pub Created by a woman of Dominican and Irish descent, this expat and tourist hangout is tops for a pint or some pub grub like fish and chips or Shepherd’s Pie. No, they don’t employ Celtic musicians, but they do have a DJ who spins pop on weekend nights. Roseau; Castle St; 767-440-4337
culinary | smart splurge | bar | pub

The Warehouse The 200 year old stone building beside Canefield Airport, once a warehouse for storing rum, is the island’s best disco. DJ’s frequently spin reggae and ska to a packed crowd on Saturday nights. Roseau; 2 miles North of Roseau; 767-448-5451
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