Every product that appears on Condé Nast Traveler has been hand-picked by our editors. However, we might receive an affiliate commission if you make a purchase using one of our retail links.
The paintings of Italian-born artist Agostino Brunias, who made a profession of depicting the island in subdued, stylized settings that covered up the harsh realities of colonial control, were my first visual introduction to Dominica. However, as soon as I step onto its winding roads, which begin to twist shortly after I arrive, it becomes evident that this region, which is situated in the center of the Lesser Antilles’ curve, is anything but tame. The two-toned leaves of its bois canot trees, which change color from green to white when they sway in the wind, shimmer and bristle with the power of the volcano. It lulls with the erratic sound of its numerous waterfalls, scatters rainbows haphazardly across its breathtaking horizons, and enchants from the depths with its vibrant coral reefs. And it roars come storm season.
The indigenous Kalinago people of Dominica survived invasion by the French and British, who imposed slavery on the Africans who now make up four-fifths of the island’s population and left a linguistic legacy of English and French-based Creole, by mastering the lush tropical rainforest that covers more than 60% of the island. If you visit Trinidad for roti and Jamaica for jerk, you should travel to Dominica for green things like bush rum and flower teas. There are a ton of medicinal herbs in the forest.
The Jungle Bay Dominica resort, located smack dab in the center of the Soufrière jungles, leans into nature instead, maybe realizing the futility of fighting against the earth’s generosity. When I finally get there, the kitchen is closed. Joanne Hilaire, the operations manager, tells me that they never let guests go hungry, though, so I can feel the warmth of Dominica’s welcome. The cook is preparing an excellently stewed dish of beans with taro, rice, and plantain for our late dinner, off the menu, while I have a refreshing ginger-lime cocktail that is a local favorite. When I wake up the following morning, I find that my villa’s doors open onto a private veranda that faces southwest toward Soufrière Bay, where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean converge. I let the light wake me for the remainder of my stay by leaving my blinds open.
Child Star passed away today. When you find out who he is, you will cry
away at the age of 46. The news of his untimely death has left fans and loved ones in shock and mourning.
Born on May 26, 1978, in a suburb of Los Angeles, California, Benji’s acting career started at a young age. Throughout the 1980s, he graced our screens with appearances on popular shows like The A-Team, T.J. Hooker, Punky Brewster, The Twilight Zone, and Steven Spielberg’s Amazing Stories.
However, it was his role as Brian Tanner on the beloved TV series Alf that made him a household name. From 1986 to 1990, Benji captivated audiences with his performance as the endearing younger brother of the extraterrestrial Alf.
Alongside his successful acting career, Benji was known for his love of dogs. His Instagram profile proudly stated, “Lover of dogs, traveling, late-night runs, music, podcasts, Navy, bipolar, major depression disorder, GAD, ALF, VR, Nike, Cinema 4D, Creative Cloud.” His furry companion, Hans, was not only a loyal friend but also his dedicated service dog.
On a fateful day, tragedy struck Benji and Hans. It remains unclear what exactly caused their passing, but those close to him believe that he may have gone to deposit a check and unfortunately succumbed to the scorching heat inside his car. The loss of both Benji and his beloved service dog has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew and cherished them.
As news of Benji’s passing spreads, his sister, Rebecca, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, stating, “Their family is grieving a great loss and appreciate everyone’s thoughts and kind words.” The tragic loss of this talented and cherished child star will not be forgotten, as his memory lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans around the world.
Leave a Reply