In the mist-wrapped village of Laudat, perched in the heart of Dominica’s Roseau Valley, the Ministry of Tourism has opened the conversation on what could be a defining chapter in the community’s history. A development consultation held this week brought together residents, government officials, tourism experts, and investors, all gathered under one roof to map out the future of tourism in the valley.
At the center of the discussion were two transformative projects—the Boiling Lake Cable Car and the Sanctuary Rainforest Eco Resort. Both developments promise to reshape not only Dominica’s tourism landscape but also the everyday lives of the people of Laudat.
Minister of Tourism Denise Charles-Pemberton framed the consultation as more than a status update. “These are not just projects,” she said. “They are catalysts for inclusive growth. As we build new access points for visitors, we must also build new opportunities for locals.”
ABL Holdings, the developers behind the cable car system, shared detailed visuals and engineering insights on what is set to become the world’s longest detachable mono-cable system. Stretching 6.6 kilometers from the base station up to the Grand Soufrière Hills, the project aims to deliver visitors closer to the Boiling Lake without exhausting the natural terrain. Project Manager Randell Gliege stressed that environmental safeguards are central to the design, noting that the system would have a minimal footprint despite its scale.
Janice Hipolitz Administrative Director of the Sanctuary Rainforest Eco Resort and Spa, announced that the luxury nature-based property is on track to begin operations between November 2025 and March 2026. She emphasized that the resort has been designed not only to attract wellness-focused visitors but to benefit the surrounding community with jobs, training, and vendor opportunities.
Parliamentary Representative for the Roseau Valley, Dr. Irving McIntyre, used the moment to rally local ambition. “Laudat is not just part of the project—it is the project. We must prepare ourselves to supply goods, host guests, and tell our stories,” he said.
Tourism consultant Josiah Brown brought a regional lens to the conversation, highlighting that five of Dominica’s top ten attractions are found right in the Roseau Valley. She challenged residents to think beyond sightseeing. “What else do visitors want? Food, art, connection, calm. This valley can give them all of it.”
The consultation wrapped up with a spirited discussion among residents, many of whom expressed optimism—but also questions about infrastructure readiness, job access, and preserving the soul of Laudat in the face of change.
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