One of our guests’ favorite activities during their stay at Fort Young Hotel is bird watching—looking out for dozens of native species within the surrounding rainforest. Whether you’re scouting solo or on a guided tour, here are some of the benefits of bird watching you may not have expected.

1. It’s a reason to get closer to nature.

Nature is filled with extraordinary wonders that help us find peace, joy or wonder just by being in its presence. Bird watching encourages stillness, connectivity and attunement—allowing us to fully experience the world around us.

2. It can help lower stress levels.

Adding to the stress-lowering benefits of just being in nature, the practice of bird watching can help ease your mind and body as well. Slowing down and focusing on an activity that requires quietness, stillness and attentiveness is similar to the practice of meditation, which can help lower stress and blood pressure.

3. It gives you a reason to travel and explore.

While some of our guests see bird watching as a fun activity during their vacation, others travel to Fort Young Hotel from across the globe for the unique opportunity to spot native-to-Dominica species during their excursions. Now, consider how many other global destinations would also make for great bird-watching vacations, and you’ll have quite the bucket list.

4. It’s a way to expand your community.

Bird watching is a casual hobby for some and a lifelong adventure for others. No matter the commitment level, you’re sure to connect with new people—in the real world or online—through the bird-watching community.

5. It’ll test your patience.

This might not sound like a benefit, but in our fast-paced world, forcing ourselves to be patient—knowing the payoff can be wonderful—is almost always a good thing. Bird watching often requires the right conditions—location, time of day, factors like noise and other wildlife—to spot what you’re looking for. Patience will serve you well in the long run.

Bird watching at Fort Young Hotel can be completely informal (taking a walk through the rainforest and looking up counts!) but we recommend arranging a formal tour during your stay. For formal bird watching tours, our guides provide binoculars for improved spotting and are equipped with knowledge of rare and common native species for an immersive learning experience. To learn more about bird watching in Dominica, click here.