The Caribbean: Island hopping.

The Caribbean is backing its appeal with facilities for groups of all kinds.

Dominica for eco-tourism

In the Eastern Caribbean lies the island of Dominica. Covered by tropical forest across two-thirds of its landmass, it takes to its title of the 'Nature Island' with aplomb and is an ideal eco-tourism destination for corporate groups committed to sustainability.

Discover Dominica Tourism Authority chief executive and director of tourism, Steve Bornn, says the destination's tourism infrastructure has been sustainable from the outset. 'It's important to understand that Dominica by nature is a responsible tourism destination - this is all we have ever known,' he says. 'When you make the decision to come to Dominica, you have automatically decided to come on a nature trip.'

The island offers a host of eco-activities. The seas surrounding the island are thought to be the only place in the world where sperm whales reside year-round, and a number of tour operators run whale-watching cruises, which also present the opportunity to spot dolphins. Dive trips can be made to sites including Soufriere Scotts Head Marine Reserve to the south.

Back on land, groups can embark on nature walks through forests to see waterfalls and geothermal features. Zip-lining, quad-biking, canyoning and rafting can be arranged for the adventurous.

Bornn warns planners that Dominica does have accessibility issues. Groups have to transfer from Antigua, St Lucia or Barbados, and it is probably only suitable for smaller incentive parties of, ideally, because the hoels are not geared to ward larger groups.

One of the largest hotels, the Portsmouth Beach Hotel, on the north-west coast, has 80 rooms and offers nature tours. The 3 Rivers Eco-Lodge in east Dominica offers a range of accommodation - from cottages to jungle tree houses and is located beside the rainforest. But Bornn says groups don't need to seek out …