Roseau Market Dominica – What to Know Before You Go
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The perfect trip to Dominica is not complete without a stop by the historic Roseau Market, also known as the Old Market. Experiencing the hustle and bustle of the market, learning its history, and buying unique items was a highlight of my time on the island! This post will break down everything you need to know for the best experience.
And if you enjoy this article, you’ll love my list of things to do in Dominica!
Why You Should Go
The Old Market of Roseau is an important historic site regarded as the last remaining old market in the Carribean Islands. For hundreds of years, it has been an important trading outpost between islands in the region. And while it is currently a bustling open-air collection of shops selling everything from electronics to linens and fresh foods, its past is checkered.
British and French colonists once used Roseau Market to sell and trade enslaved Dominicans, as well as publicly punish and even execute them alongside the goods for sale. A famous resistance leader, Maroon Chief Jacko, was among those executed at the market.
Because of its history and location, the Old Market in Roseau Dominica is a consistent draw for tourism. If you’re into history, a foodie, someone who enjoys shopping locally, or just have time to kill during a Caribbean cruise stopover, this market is a must-visit!
Oh, yeah—copy my Dominica itinerary!
How to Get to Old Market Square Roseau
The market is located in Dominica’s capital, Roseau, near the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth, which makes it convenient for tourists arriving by ship to visit. Coming from the Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM), it takes about an hour to get to the market by car.
I visited the market on a group excursion from Jungle Bay Resort in Soufriere, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
Here are all the details of staying at Jungle Bay Resort for one week!
What You’ll Need
I recommend bringing cash–either Eastern Caribbean Dollars, USD, or Euros for purchases. A few businesses take cards but cash is easier and the exchange rate is better.
If you plan to do a lot of shopping, which I highly recommend, bring a reusable tote bag or basket to make carrying everything easier. I just brought a bum bag with my essentials and wound up with several different plastic bags from the shops that eventually became annoying to manage.
Had I thought ahead, I’d have packed this lightweight shopping bag that folds into just a few inches and is waterproof.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and cool clothes. A sun hat and sunscreen won’t hurt either! This wide-brimmed visor is my favorite because it shades your entire face and neck.
Here’s my full packing list for a Dominica vacation!
What to Buy at the Market in Roseau Dominica
Prepared Food to eat or take away. Depending on the time of day, you can also sit down and have a meal at restaurants onsite. I had just enjoyed patties and sorrel on the souvenir strip so I didn’t dine at the market but I did grab a warm cassava cake from a bakery to-go!
Fresh Produce from all over the island. If you’re staying in accommodations with a kitchen, skip the grocery supermarket and shop fresh at the market to make your meals. You can even get fresh-cut coconuts to cool off with, which I couldn’t resist. Fresh-caught fish and bread are available, too.
Spices were my favorite buy from the market, including whole cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon bark to take home and cook with.
Castor Oil is a must-buy in Dominica. The clean, natural environment and growing practices produce a very high-quality castor oil that is more potent than the run-of-the-mill castor oil available at American pharmacies. I grabbed two bottles and still wish I had gotten more.
Souvenirs from the strip of souvenir shops in tents that runs between the Old Market and the cruise terminal entrance. I found gifts for everyone on my list, including jewelry, clothing, hats, toys, and art. And keep your eyes peeled for vendors selling homemade patties and fresh-squeezed juices!
Check out all my recommendations on what to eat in Dominica next!
What Else to Do at Roseau Dominica Old Market
Aside from shopping, you can learn more about Dominican culture and history at The Dominica Museum.
And if you stroll along the path leading to the cruise terminal from the market, you’ll come upon a collection of murals paying tribute to Dominica’s Kwรฉyรฒl (Creole) musicians.
With Roseau being the capital city, there are more than enough activities to fill a day trip or even a weekend. I recommend visiting the Botanical Garden or Trafalgar Falls. Or see more of the Nature Island, if you have time.
Book this Roseau tour to copy the exact sites and activities from my time in Roseau, including a visit to the market!
More Favorite Dominica, West Indies Moments
I hope this post helps you plan the best visit to Roseau Dominica Old Market soon and very soon. And sharing is caring so be sure to pin this post for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
