GRENADA
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Grenada, located in the Southern Caribbean Windward Islands, is a nation with actually several islands, since its territory also includes some of the Grenadine Islands. Since the Grenadine Islands are shared between Grenada and St. Vincent, we will dedicate a separate page to the Grenadines.
Grenada, a former British colony and member of the British Commonwealth, is a volcanic, mountaineous island covered by rain forest. Like other islands of the region, its main attraction is the lush, tropical vegetation, with exotic fruits, flower, plants and spices. Grenada is known as "The Spice Island", since it is a big producer of nutmeg, cacao and much more spices. |
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Although a volcanic island, Grenada has a good share of beautiful white sand beaches along a perfectly turquoise shore. Some beaches, especially on the Atlantic side, have darker sand. Most of the hotels are on the Caribbean side, generally on a beach or in a bay. Grenada is not a luxury island, but has some upscaled hotels, as well as romantic getaways in the nature and apartments for rent. It's not a time-share destination. People who come to Grenada like to alternate between beach and rain forest excursions. The roads are acceptable, you can tour the island with a rental car. Hikers will enjoy the waterfalls, rivers and lakes, the rich flora and fauna - monkeys, parrots and other animals - and generally, the generous and lush rain forest. |
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Indeed, the biggest part of a vacation in Grenada should be dedicated to nature activities. A part of hiking, doing excursions and going to the beach, Grenada has good diving spots, several marinas, and fishing can be interesting as well. And if you are in Grenada, book an excursion to the Grenadines. Those smaller islands are a different world, very laid back and unique in the Caribbean. Local travel agencies can organize the trip. Unless you are lucky and find a local guy willing to take you there. People in Grenada are very relaxed and friendly!
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Grenada's capital St. Georges is located in a pretty bay and is worth a stroll. The island has a few decent supermarkets and some shopping center. Prices are average. For dinner, go for local fish and Caribbean cuisine, of course with Grenada spices. But you can also find pizzerias and fast food for modest prices.
Life in Grenada is bound to nature, and the best entertainment can be enjoyed in marinas, beach bars, sometimes hotels, and simple but lovely places in the interior. There is no big nightlife, but you can have fun at the traditional happy hour, meeting the locals and find out what's new. Or where to buy a good fish... |
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In review: Grenada is for nature lovers and offers simple pleasures of life. Sea sun and sand, tropicial forest, great excursions in the nature and a relaxed lifestyle. It is a good spot for families with children. No St. Tropez style beach parties, people in Grenada are more conservative; but you will enjoy beautiful sunsets with natural fruit cocktails spiced with nutmeg. Also, the island is not overrun with mass tourism, and you will never have the sensation of being in a crowd. If you are more the individualist type and love the contact with nature, Grenada will be a good choice for your holidays. |
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