I have a mental countdown of my trip that’s coming up in May.
Oh, I didn’t mention: I’m visiting my country of birth after almost 15 years.
Not many of you know that I was born in the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” also known as the commonwealth of Dominica– not Dominican Republic, and after migrating to los Estados Unidos, I hadn’t been back. Dominica is one of the most untouched islands of the Caribbean spanning 290 sq mi. The population is estimated 72,500, a lot less than New York City (8,175,133 people for it’s 305 square miles). New York City is only 15 square miles larger but we fit that many in it.
The U. S. became my adopted home and is essentially all that I know now. It’s a little unfortunate that I hadn’t been back prior, but monetary circumstances didn’t allow it. Now, a few years into my career, and life, I am ready to see where I once called home.
To be honest, I always imagined that I would have had a family before I returned but going back now to familiarize myself before all this occurs really isn’t a terrible idea. I imagined I would show them, this is where I grew up but a dream ago. However, what best way to keep that connection than to return to my home?
I’m definitely a tourist now. Different passport, an alien nonetheless… Yet, I’m super excited about reconnecting with my grandparents, siblings and niece.
Anyway, I have conveniently scheduled the trip for 15 days (after 15 years) to visit St. Croix and Dominica.
I’m psyched and can’t wait to share that part of my life with you. Let me know whether you’re on either island!
Photo credit: Dominica Island
Uttoran Sen
Always good to return to the roots, it is a great feeling to meet your relatives and to know more about the place of your birth. One can never be a tourist in a place where they were born, am sure you will have a great time.