Travel Guide to Grenada

Location

Grenada is one of the most southerly of the Caribbean islands joining the arc of islands from Florida all the way down to Venezuela.

Shopping

The capital St. George offers shopping although not the most extensive of the Caribbean islands capitals. A market on Saturdays is great fun as many of the locals buy their fruit, fish and groceries here giving you a real taste of the charm of the island people. You will also be able to buy the spices the island is famous for. When out and about on the island, spices are the best buy.

Geography

The volcanic history of the island (extinct now!) created a mountainous spectacular feel to the island. The mountains are covered with tropical rainforests and spectacular waterfalls. The lush nature of the island attracts many birds - up to 150 species many of whom are migratory.

History

The island was named by Spaniards as it reminded them of the landscaped of Andalusia. However the French renamed it Grenade only for the British to later return its name back to Grenada.

The first Europeans to settle of the island were the French around 1650. However the island was inhabited at the time by the Caribs who fought the French bitterly determined not to be confined by their rule, but were defeated. The remaining Caribs jumped top their death rather than be taken captive off a precipice in the north of the island which the French named “Le Morne de Sauturs” or “Leapers Hill”

The British fought the French for control over the island on and off for a century until in 1783 under the treaty of Versailles control was handed to the British. The British immediately brought in many slaves from Africa to work the plantations until slavery was abolished in 1834. However there was great tension from 1795 when Julian Fedon led a violent rebellion in an attempt to free the slaves.

More recently, the island gained independence in 1974, in 1979 was taken over by a military/socialist regime which stayed in place until a democratic government was elected in 1985 after the US intervened with military force.

Climate

The Caribbean is subject to a hurricane season which is officially from 1 June to 30 November. However 80% of the stormy weather activity occurs within the August-October period with its peak usually being early-mid September. The centre of most storms miss the region moving off to the north, with others causing only minor disruption to weather conditions. However, there are usually a few each year that will pass through the region in hurricane force wind conditions.

Basic Information

Language
English is the official language.

Currency
East Caribbean Dollar (EC$) is the local currency although US$ are usually accepted as are credit cards in hotels and many restaurants and shops.

Electricity
220/240 volts AC 50 Hz. .

Banks
Opening hours Mon-Thur 8am-1pm, Fri 8am-1pm and 2pm-5pm.

Driving
Driving is on the left. Roads tend to be in good condition but are narrow.

Time difference
GMT -4 hours.

Tipping and local customs
10% is generally expected in restaurants and by taxi drivers and is often added automatically in restaurants and hotels.

Water
Bottled mineral water is recommended.

Tourist Board information
www.grenada.org

Visas
No Visa is currently required for British or Irish passport holders. This should be re-checked on booking for any changes. Six months valid passport is required.

What makes it so special?

Its unspoilt rural feel with a true tropical feel draws many Caribbean lovers time after time. The laid back way of life, impressive scenery, spectacular rainforests, great beaches, interesting history, culture, flora and fauna sets it apart from other islands.

Where to visit?

St George is an historic and picturesque capital town. The Saturday market is fun to visit and we recommend a stroll along the harbour front and a visit to the fort and for those feeling a bit more energetic a haul up a steep hill to the wonderful church.

The Grand Etang Forest Reserve with its lake at the centre is a must for hikers and birdwatchers. The lake is formed in the crater of the now extinct volcano.

Concord Falls.

A visit to one of the Spice plantations / estates

Most popular tours

Island Tour
Catamaran cruise