Grenada is a group of three larger islands (Grenada, Carriacou, and Petit Martinique) and several tiny islands in the Caribbean, or West Indies. It lies just northeast of Trinidad and Tobago, and southwest of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. It is famous for spices and is known as the "Spice Isle", being a major source of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and cocoa.
Understand
History
Christopher Columbus discovered Grenada in 1498. The island was already inhabited by the Carib Indians, who had migrated from the South American mainland, killing or enslaving the peaceful Arawaks who where already inhabitants here. The Amerindians called their island Camerhogue, but Columbus renamed it Concepción. However, passing Spanish sailors found its lush green hills so evocative of Andalusia that they rejected this name in favor of Granada.
Over the centuries, although control of the island passed from France to Britain (and briefly back to France again), the name endured with just the slightest of alterations, changing from "Granada" to "La Grenade" to "Grenada".
The French were the first to settle Grenada. Legend holds that in 1652 the last of the defending Caribs rather than be ruled by the French, threw themselves into the sea from a spot that was christened Le Morne des Sauteurs, and is known today as Leapers' Hill.
Exploited first for indigo (hence the name "True Blue"), and later for sugar production, the island prospered and, like many others in the Caribbean, attracted the attention of the British. Captured by Admiral George Rodney in 1762, near the end of the European Seven Years' War (1756-63), Grenada reverted to French rule from 1779 until 1783 when the island was restored to Britain by the Treaty of Versailles.
The inhabitants' loyalties remained divided between the two European powers for many years, as illustrated by Fedon's Rebellion of 1795. In the course of this violent episode, a group of rebels under the command of the mulatto General Julien Fedon, and inspired by the rhetoric of the French Revolution wreaked havoc on the island and its British settlers in an unsuccessful attempt to reunite with France.
From 1784 until its independence in 1974, Grenada remained a member of the British Empire, passing through various stages of colonial status and multiple associations with other regional states. In 1967, Grenada became an "Associated State of Great Britain" within the British Commonwealth. With this, the island nation gained control of its internal affairs, while the government of Britain continued to control external matters.
Early in the twentieth century, it produced one of the region's outstanding leaders, T. Albert Marryshow. His Representative Government Association, which inspired similar movements in other Windward Islands states and in Trinidad, did much to encourage the liberalization of British rule in the Caribbean.
It is ironic that the achievement in 1950 of universal adult suffrage, long a goal of Marryshow's, led directly to his displacement in Grenadian political life by a new figure, Eric Matthew Gairy. Whereas Marryshow had been a man of the middle class, Gairy and his Grenada United Labour Party (GULP) appealed to the lower class, the peasantry. Suddenly empowered by the vote, Gairy's supporters swept him to the leadership of the Legislative Council in 1951; he dominated the island's politics for almost three decades.
The most successful electoral challenge to Gairy between 1951 and 1979 was posed by Herbert Blaize's Grenada National Party (GNP) in 1961, mainly on the issue of union with Trinidad and Tobago (the "unitary state" proposal). Again reflecting the Grenadian penchant for looking outward for support and viability, the GNP campaigned on a platform urging acceptance of the Trinidadian offer of union. Although Blaize's party won the election, it subsequently lost a large measure of prestige and credibility when Trinidad failed to follow through on the proposal. The GNP's fall from grace paved the way for the return of Gairy, who has never tired of the role of political savior of his country. Complete independence was achieved in 1974, with significant opposition, under the leadership of the late Sir Eric Gairy -- a charismatic and controversial figure who had been in the public eye since the early 1950s.
In 1979, an attempt was made to set up a socialist/communist state in Grenada. Four years later, at the request of the Governor General, the United States, Jamaica, and the Eastern Caribbean States intervened militarily. Launching their now famous "rescue mission", the allied forces restored order, and in December of 1984 a general election re-established democratic government.
The last 23 years have been a peaceful, democratic and fruitful back to normal existence, which has included many new building structures and vastly improved infrastructure.
Climate
Average temperatures range from 24°C/ 75°F to 30°C/ 87°F, tempered by the steady and cooling trade winds. The lowest temperatures occur between January and April. The driest season is between January and May. Even during the rainy season, from June to December, it rarely rains for more than an hour at a time and generally not every day.
History
Christopher Columbus discovered Grenada in 1498. The island was already inhabited by the Carib Indians, who had migrated from the South American mainland, killing or enslaving the peaceful Arawaks who where already inhabitants here. The Amerindians called their island Camerhogue, but Columbus renamed it Concepción. However, passing Spanish sailors found its lush green hills so evocative of Andalusia that they rejected this name in favor of Granada.
Over the centuries, although control of the island passed from France to Britain (and briefly back to France again), the name endured with just the slightest of alterations, changing from "Granada" to "La Grenade" to "Grenada".
The French were the first to settle Grenada. Legend holds that in 1652 the last of the defending Caribs rather than be ruled by the French, threw themselves into the sea from a spot that was christened Le Morne des Sauteurs, and is known today as Leapers' Hill.
Exploited first for indigo (hence the name "True Blue"), and later for sugar production, the island prospered and, like many others in the Caribbean, attracted the attention of the British. Captured by Admiral George Rodney in 1762, near the end of the European Seven Years' War (1756-63), Grenada reverted to French rule from 1779 until 1783 when the island was restored to Britain by the Treaty of Versailles.
The inhabitants' loyalties remained divided between the two European powers for many years, as illustrated by Fedon's Rebellion of 1795. In the course of this violent episode, a group of rebels under the command of the mulatto General Julien Fedon, and inspired by the rhetoric of the French Revolution wreaked havoc on the island and its British settlers in an unsuccessful attempt to reunite with France.
From 1784 until its independence in 1974, Grenada remained a member of the British Empire, passing through various stages of colonial status and multiple associations with other regional states. In 1967, Grenada became an "Associated State of Great Britain" within the British Commonwealth. With this, the island nation gained control of its internal affairs, while the government of Britain continued to control external matters.
Early in the twentieth century, it produced one of the region's outstanding leaders, T. Albert Marryshow. His Representative Government Association, which inspired similar movements in other Windward Islands states and in Trinidad, did much to encourage the liberalization of British rule in the Caribbean.
It is ironic that the achievement in 1950 of universal adult suffrage, long a goal of Marryshow's, led directly to his displacement in Grenadian political life by a new figure, Eric Matthew Gairy. Whereas Marryshow had been a man of the middle class, Gairy and his Grenada United Labour Party (GULP) appealed to the lower class, the peasantry. Suddenly empowered by the vote, Gairy's supporters swept him to the leadership of the Legislative Council in 1951; he dominated the island's politics for almost three decades.
The most successful electoral challenge to Gairy between 1951 and 1979 was posed by Herbert Blaize's Grenada National Party (GNP) in 1961, mainly on the issue of union with Trinidad and Tobago (the "unitary state" proposal). Again reflecting the Grenadian penchant for looking outward for support and viability, the GNP campaigned on a platform urging acceptance of the Trinidadian offer of union. Although Blaize's party won the election, it subsequently lost a large measure of prestige and credibility when Trinidad failed to follow through on the proposal. The GNP's fall from grace paved the way for the return of Gairy, who has never tired of the role of political savior of his country. Complete independence was achieved in 1974, with significant opposition, under the leadership of the late Sir Eric Gairy -- a charismatic and controversial figure who had been in the public eye since the early 1950s.
In 1979, an attempt was made to set up a socialist/communist state in Grenada. Four years later, at the request of the Governor General, the United States, Jamaica, and the Eastern Caribbean States intervened militarily. Launching their now famous "rescue mission", the allied forces restored order, and in December of 1984 a general election re-established democratic government.
The last 23 years have been a peaceful, democratic and fruitful back to normal existence, which has included many new building structures and vastly improved infrastructure.
Climate
Average temperatures range from 24°C/ 75°F to 30°C/ 87°F, tempered by the steady and cooling trade winds. The lowest temperatures occur between January and April. The driest season is between January and May. Even during the rainy season, from June to December, it rarely rains for more than an hour at a time and generally not every day.
Belmont Estate Located in St Patrick only an hour’s scenic drive from the island’s capital, St. George, Belmont Estate is a unique and authentic 17th century plantation that offers guests an opportunity to participate in and observe the workings of a fully functional historic plantation. Belmont Estate has forged a strategic alliance with the The Grenada Chocolate Company , to make the world's finest dark organic chocolate. The Grenada Chocolate Company and Belmont Estate are a members of the Grenada Organic Cocoa Farmers Co-operative Society Ltd., that grow organic cocoa to make the product. The co-operative consists of about twelve farmers that have received organic certification through the German certifying company Ceres.
Grand Etang Nature Reserve is in St. Andrew and is famous for its Craterlake.
Mt. Qua Qua is a mountan within the Grand Etang Nature Reserve.
Mt. St. Catherine is with 840 metres (2756 feet) the highest mountain in Grenada.
Mt. Roy named after the legendary, black anthropologist and Grenadian national hero Roy Fearon.
Concord Waterfalls are 3 Waterfalls in St. John.
Annandale Waterfall in the St. George district.
Mt. Carmel Waterfall is the highest Waterfall in Grenada.
Seven Sister Waterfalls is a group of 7 Waterfalls close to the Grand Etang Nature Reserve in St. Andrew
Honeymoon Waterfall is secluded in the rain forest close to the Seven Sister Waterfalls.
River Antoine Rum Distillery is the oldest Rum Factory in western hemisphere and still operating with a water wheel.
Clark's Court Distillery is in St. George district and famous for its products.
Dougladston Estate is the oldest Spice Plantagen in Grenada close to Gouyave.
Gouyave Nutmeg Factory one of the "must do" in Grenada the "spice island".
Carib's Leap a historic place in the north of the island where the last Carib Indians jumped from a high cliff.
Grand Anse Beach the most famous beach in Grenada and the main tourist area.
Morne Rouge Bay one of the most beautiful beaches in Grenada. (close to the Grand Anse)
Levera Beach nice secluded Beach in the north of Grenada with view of the Grenadiens.
Bathway Beach a famous beach in the north of Grenada with a save nature pool.
Black Bay Beach secluded black beach on the west coast of Grenada (close to the Concord Waterfalls)
Fort George´s above the main town St. George´s with beautiful view of the town and the Carenage.
Fort Frederick high above the sea with oustanding views of St. George´s, Grand Anse, Grand Etang and the southern part of the island.
Marketplace nice caribbean market with newly renovated spice market hall in St. George's
Bay Garden a tropical Garden with a rain forest style. (in St. Paul`s)
'"St. George's University'" The School of Medicine opened in 1976 and is famous for its involvement in the U.S. invasion in 1983. The True Blue campus features breathtaking panoramic views of the island and is ideal for sunset viewing. Black Sand Beach is unique for its namesake igneous sand and is a beautiful place to see waves crashing against rocky outcroppings.
Getting there
A valid passport and return or onward ticket is required. Visas are not required from citizens of the USA, Canada, United Kingdom and its dependencies, British Commonwealth countries, Caribbean countries (except Cuba), Venezuela, European Community countries and their dependencies, Norway, Japan, and Israel. Commonwealth of Independent States such as Russia and the Ukraine and the Baltic States such as Estonia and Latvia, and other eastern European countries such as Hungary, Romania and Slovenia are required to purchase a tourist visa on arrival in Grenada and costs EC$ 25.
Duty Free Allowances - Personal items, one quart in total wines and spirits, half-pound tobacco or 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes. No restrictions on the amount of money that can be brought in. Restricted items are fruits, vegetables, meat, soil, illegal drugs, firearms and ammunition.
By plane
Point Salines International Airport (IATA : GND)(ICAO : TGPY) is on the main island of Grenada, located on a peninsula in the extreme southwest corner. It is about 4 miles from the capital of St. George's. British Airways, American Eagle, American Airlines, Monarch, Air Canada (dry season only), Virgin Atlantic (UK), Liat, Air Jamaica, Condor (Germany), Sky Service (toronto) and Conviasa (VE)(from Porlamar, Margarita) provide direct service to Grenada; connections can be made on Liat via Trinidad and Barbados, and also from Barbados via SVG Airlines.
By boat
Many cruise ships dock in or near St. George's between October and May. A large cruise ship terminal was completed in 2005, allowing up to 4 ships to be docked at once. The terminal "mall" houses numerous shops, some typical for Caribbean cruises, a few unique to the island.
Private moorings for yachts are available all around the island.
Osprey Lines Limited, Tel: (473) 440-8126, . Ferry service between the islands of Granada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique via
Charters of various sizes and crews can be found by inquiring at hotels or the Grenada Yacht Club in St. George's.
Traveling around
In towns, walking is viable, though often strenuous on hills in the hot sun. Use care to avoid vehicle traffic on narrow streets with narrow or no sidewalks.
Most of the travel in and around St. George's is by taxis and minibuses. To hail a taxi, one must simply be standing on a street corner. The independently owned, but government licensed, cars and vans will stop and ask if one wants a ride. Some standard fares include EC$30 from the airport to St. George's and EC$25-$40 for trips from most hotels to the various dining spots around the city.
Buses in Grenada are the standardized form of transportation. They are vans that hold between 15-19 people, and they have route numbers and signs on them. In town, there are designated bus stops, however, once you leave town, you can signal a stop by either knocking on the wall or pressing the stop button. Conductors and drivers are always very friendly, so do not hesitate to ask them where you should stop. Bus fares vary between EC$2.50-10.00 depending on the distance. They are lively trips, with great music and a nice breeze.
Car rentals are available, with rates of US$50 - US$75 per day. With a valid license from your home country you will qualify for a temporary Grenada license which can be obtained from any police station for a fee of EC$30. Drive on the left and make frequent use of the car's horn when coming around the numerous blind corners in the mountains.
Water taxis are another means of getting around.
Eat
Aquarium Restaurant & Bar located at Point Salines and is famous for its Sunday BBQ - great location on the beach.
Bananas Restaurant is in True Blue and caters to every budget and taste. Whether you looking for a cheeseburger in paradise or steak and lobster you are sure to find it at this restaurant and bar; economically priced and packed with fun. For the more adventuresome, stay and dance the night away in the state of the art club.
Coconut Restaurant & Bar is located at the Grand Anse Beach
Beach House Restaurant & Bar is located at Point Salines.
The Red Crab in Lance Aux Epines on the main road and has a fabulous menu.
Patrick's Restaurant, St. George's, Tel: 473-440 0364 on the Lagoon Road across from Port Louis offers a wonderful tapas-like presentation of island cuisine.
The Spice Land Mall in Grand Anse has a food court that includes a local fruit smoothie stand, a Chinese restaurant and a Mediterranean/Middle Eastern restaurant
Marquis Complex in Grand Anse with Nick´s Donut World, Carib Sushi and Le Boulangerie (a pizza restaurant)
De La Grenade manufacturer of nutmeg products including liqueur, syrup, pepper sauce, jams and jellies.
Grenada Chocolate Factory produces organic dark chocolate with vintage machinery run by solar power. You should be able to find the colorfully packaged bars in stores throughout the island and at the duty-free shop at the airport. Tours of the factory itself are also very interesting.
Dodgy Dock Restaurant & Lounge Bar, 473 443 8783, 7AM to 11PM, True Blue Bay Resort, True Blue near SGU, Waterfront dining, popular lunch spot and a celebrated sunset and night-time hot spot. Caribbean and Mexican food, daily happy hour 5PM
Seasonal live Caribbean music Tues, Fri, Sat. Exotic tropical cocktails
Petite Anse Hotel Restaurant & Bar, 473 442 5252, 9am -9pm, Sauteurs, North of the island, Lunch of salads, fish, chicken and steak or can try the more elegant fine dining dinner. Menu is of fresh local produce and changes on a daily basis.
Drink
Grenada is known for its rum distilleries. The three largest companies are Clarke's Court, Westerhall and River Antoine. All three offer educational tours that demonstrate the sugar production for rum. They are all located on different parts of the island with only Clarke's Court and River Antoine being the true remaining distilleries. Although Westerhall is not completely produced here, their special rum (with the wax casing) is probably the best rum on the island. Clarke's Court makes both light and special dark rums which are also quite delicious. Be forewarned about River Antoine. It has a 75% alcohol content which you are not allowed to export. (They make a version with 69% for exporting.) At all the distilleries you can buy small bottles, and rum is sold in most grocery stores and rum shops.
In many bars, take care with drinks made with "under the counter" ingredients, e.g., highly-overproof rums for "locals" often used in "Pain Killers". They can overwhelm the most experienced drinkers.
Fruit juices are made from locally grown fruits such as mango, papaya, carambola (five fingers fruit) and various citrus fruits are readily available.
"Pirate's Cove Restaurant and Jolly Roger Sports Bar"
Grand View Inn, Grand Anse - phone "473.444.2342/4984" Open for "B-7 10, L- 11-2, D- 7 -9 Offering local fare at modest prices, to include banquets, catering, and parties. Fresh, local ingredients emphasized, Offers an excellent view of the island.
Sleep
See each island's article for accommodation listings.
Grenada (island) offers a variety of accommodations, from small guesthouses to five star, all-inclusive resorts.
Carriacou though smaller, has many options.
Petit Martinique although much less developed has a few options.
Buy
Nutmeg is Grenada's cash crop, so be sure to bring some home in some form - whole, jam, jelly, syrup, Nutmed (medicinal ointment). In addition, you can purchase nutmeg flavored ice cream, which has an unusual flavor that is difficult to find elsewhere. Due to Hurricane Ivan in September of 2004, over 90% of Grenada's nutmeg crop was destroyed, but thankfully, you'll now see an abundance around the market, town, and tourist shops. Other fine spices include mace and cinnamon.
To bring herbs/spices back to the U.S. (and several other countries), they need to be within properly sealed containers. Most responsible sellers offer them so packaged, but check to be sure.
Real vanilla is a steal in the markets, sometimes it can be found for as little as $1US for a 1/2 litre bottle. The concentration of the fluid does vary, but in its pure form there is a noticeable (and very pleasant) difference from the vanilla extract that most North Americans are used to. You might also look for dried vanilla beans (in pod)...an essential to a full range of kitchen herbs/spices.
For liquor (rum), see "Drink" below.
The large crise ship pier outside the main harbor offers a small, enclosed, "duty-free" mall. It has several shops (and food outlets) offering both local items and those typically for cruise passengers. Prices on local products may be at a slight premium to stores elsewhere on the island.
Talk
English is spoken throughout the country with a Grenadian accent that can sometimes be confused for a different language. However, it is in fact English! French Patois used to be the dialect language spoken within Grenada, but it only remains within the older generations and in scattered pockets. Most Grenadians only know a few words.
Etiquette
Although Grenada is a West Indian island in the Caribbean, Grenadians do not spend the majority of their time "liming" on the beach. They are very serious about their jobs and many workplaces require specially-tailored suits. Though work remains, they rightly take well-deserved pride in widespread repairs to massive damage from hurricane Ivan.
St. George's Town is a place of commerce with the many banks, businesses, and governmental offices. Do not confuse it for the beach. It is often seen as rude or disrespectful for people to walk around Grenada inappropriately dressed, especially if you are dressed for the beach and you are not on it (Grenada just recently passed and is starting to enforce an indecent exposure law that bans bathing suits in non-beach areas as well as saggy pants that reveal underwear). Do not confuse the laid-back attitude for lazy, as Grenadians have a very formal and conservative attitude about their lifestyle and workplace.
Stay healthy
There is a General Hospital in St.George's, a smaller hospital at Mirabeau on the east coast and one in Carriacou. A small private hospital in St. Paul, clinics and doctors are available. House-calls can be made.
Drinking water is chlorinated in most places; if in doubt about safety/potabiliy, ask the seller or server.
Dialysis is now available on the island. A company called Island Health Services has opened the first dialysis unit. Fresenius has been operating for almost a year now. If regularly dependent on dialysis, ensure in-advance that the type(s) offered meet your needs.
Safety
Grenada is a fairly safe country. The tropical sun and high humidity deserve your great respect. There may be more danger for pedestrians on narrow sidewalks and streets than from crime.
Islands
Grenada - By far the largest island, where most of the nation's people live.
Carriacou - The second largest island, home to the town of Hillsborough.
Petit Martinique - A distant third-largest island, limited tourist facilities.
The Grenada Board of Tourism, PO Box 293, St. George’s, Grenada. Tel: 473 440-2279, fax: 473 440-6637, gbt@spiceisle.com.
Contact & location
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Grenada is a group of three larger islands (Grenada, Carriacou, and Petit Martinique) and several tiny islands in the Caribbean, or West Indies. It lies just northeast of Trinidad and Tobago, and southwest of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. It is famous for spices and is known as the "Spice Isle", being a major source of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and cocoa.
Understand
History
Christopher Columbus discovered Grenada in 1498. The island was already inhabited by the Carib Indians, who had migrated from the South American mainland, killing or enslaving the peaceful Arawaks who where already inhabitants here. The Amerindians called their island Camerhogue, but Columbus renamed it Concepción. However, passing Spanish sailors found its lush green hills so evocative of Andalusia that they rejected this name in favor of Granada.
Over the centuries, although control of the island passed from France to Britain (and briefly back to France again), the name endured with just the slightest of alterations, changing from "Granada" to "La Grenade" to "Grenada".
The French were the first to settle Grenada. Legend holds that in 1652 the last of the defending Caribs rather than be ruled by the French, threw themselves into the sea from a spot that was christened Le Morne des Sauteurs, and is known today as Leapers' Hill.
Exploited first for indigo (hence the name "True Blue"), and later for sugar production, the island prospered and, like many others in the Caribbean, attracted the attention of the British. Captured by Admiral George Rodney in 1762, near the end of the European Seven Years' War (1756-63), Grenada reverted to French rule from 1779 until 1783 when the island was restored to Britain by the Treaty of Versailles.
The inhabitants' loyalties remained divided between the two European powers for many years, as illustrated by Fedon's Rebellion of 1795. In the course of this violent episode, a group of rebels under the command of the mulatto General Julien Fedon, and inspired by the rhetoric of the French Revolution wreaked havoc on the island and its British settlers in an unsuccessful attempt to reunite with France.
From 1784 until its independence in 1974, Grenada remained a member of the British Empire, passing through various stages of colonial status and multiple associations with other regional states. In 1967, Grenada became an "Associated State of Great Britain" within the British Commonwealth. With this, the island nation gained control of its internal affairs, while the government of Britain continued to control external matters.
Early in the twentieth century, it produced one of the region's outstanding leaders, T. Albert Marryshow. His Representative Government Association, which inspired similar movements in other Windward Islands states and in Trinidad, did much to encourage the liberalization of British rule in the Caribbean.
It is ironic that the achievement in 1950 of universal adult suffrage, long a goal of Marryshow's, led directly to his displacement in Grenadian political life by a new figure, Eric Matthew Gairy. Whereas Marryshow had been a man of the middle class, Gairy and his Grenada United Labour Party (GULP) appealed to the lower class, the peasantry. Suddenly empowered by the vote, Gairy's supporters swept him to the leadership of the Legislative Council in 1951; he dominated the island's politics for almost three decades.
The most successful electoral challenge to Gairy between 1951 and 1979 was posed by Herbert Blaize's Grenada National Party (GNP) in 1961, mainly on the issue of union with Trinidad and Tobago (the "unitary state" proposal). Again reflecting the Grenadian penchant for looking outward for support and viability, the GNP campaigned on a platform urging acceptance of the Trinidadian offer of union. Although Blaize's party won the election, it subsequently lost a large measure of prestige and credibility when Trinidad failed to follow through on the proposal. The GNP's fall from grace paved the way for the return of Gairy, who has never tired of the role of political savior of his country. Complete independence was achieved in 1974, with significant opposition, under the leadership of the late Sir Eric Gairy -- a charismatic and controversial figure who had been in the public eye since the early 1950s.
In 1979, an attempt was made to set up a socialist/communist state in Grenada. Four years later, at the request of the Governor General, the United States, Jamaica, and the Eastern Caribbean States intervened militarily. Launching their now famous "rescue mission", the allied forces restored order, and in December of 1984 a general election re-established democratic government.
The last 23 years have been a peaceful, democratic and fruitful back to normal existence, which has included many new building structures and vastly improved infrastructure.
Climate
Average temperatures range from 24°C/ 75°F to 30°C/ 87°F, tempered by the steady and cooling trade winds. The lowest temperatures occur between January and April. The driest season is between January and May. Even during the rainy season, from June to December, it rarely rains for more than an hour at a time and generally not every day.
History
Christopher Columbus discovered Grenada in 1498. The island was already inhabited by the Carib Indians, who had migrated from the South American mainland, killing or enslaving the peaceful Arawaks who where already inhabitants here. The Amerindians called their island Camerhogue, but Columbus renamed it Concepción. However, passing Spanish sailors found its lush green hills so evocative of Andalusia that they rejected this name in favor of Granada.
Over the centuries, although control of the island passed from France to Britain (and briefly back to France again), the name endured with just the slightest of alterations, changing from "Granada" to "La Grenade" to "Grenada".
The French were the first to settle Grenada. Legend holds that in 1652 the last of the defending Caribs rather than be ruled by the French, threw themselves into the sea from a spot that was christened Le Morne des Sauteurs, and is known today as Leapers' Hill.
Exploited first for indigo (hence the name "True Blue"), and later for sugar production, the island prospered and, like many others in the Caribbean, attracted the attention of the British. Captured by Admiral George Rodney in 1762, near the end of the European Seven Years' War (1756-63), Grenada reverted to French rule from 1779 until 1783 when the island was restored to Britain by the Treaty of Versailles.
The inhabitants' loyalties remained divided between the two European powers for many years, as illustrated by Fedon's Rebellion of 1795. In the course of this violent episode, a group of rebels under the command of the mulatto General Julien Fedon, and inspired by the rhetoric of the French Revolution wreaked havoc on the island and its British settlers in an unsuccessful attempt to reunite with France.
From 1784 until its independence in 1974, Grenada remained a member of the British Empire, passing through various stages of colonial status and multiple associations with other regional states. In 1967, Grenada became an "Associated State of Great Britain" within the British Commonwealth. With this, the island nation gained control of its internal affairs, while the government of Britain continued to control external matters.
Early in the twentieth century, it produced one of the region's outstanding leaders, T. Albert Marryshow. His Representative Government Association, which inspired similar movements in other Windward Islands states and in Trinidad, did much to encourage the liberalization of British rule in the Caribbean.
It is ironic that the achievement in 1950 of universal adult suffrage, long a goal of Marryshow's, led directly to his displacement in Grenadian political life by a new figure, Eric Matthew Gairy. Whereas Marryshow had been a man of the middle class, Gairy and his Grenada United Labour Party (GULP) appealed to the lower class, the peasantry. Suddenly empowered by the vote, Gairy's supporters swept him to the leadership of the Legislative Council in 1951; he dominated the island's politics for almost three decades.
The most successful electoral challenge to Gairy between 1951 and 1979 was posed by Herbert Blaize's Grenada National Party (GNP) in 1961, mainly on the issue of union with Trinidad and Tobago (the "unitary state" proposal). Again reflecting the Grenadian penchant for looking outward for support and viability, the GNP campaigned on a platform urging acceptance of the Trinidadian offer of union. Although Blaize's party won the election, it subsequently lost a large measure of prestige and credibility when Trinidad failed to follow through on the proposal. The GNP's fall from grace paved the way for the return of Gairy, who has never tired of the role of political savior of his country. Complete independence was achieved in 1974, with significant opposition, under the leadership of the late Sir Eric Gairy -- a charismatic and controversial figure who had been in the public eye since the early 1950s.
In 1979, an attempt was made to set up a socialist/communist state in Grenada. Four years later, at the request of the Governor General, the United States, Jamaica, and the Eastern Caribbean States intervened militarily. Launching their now famous "rescue mission", the allied forces restored order, and in December of 1984 a general election re-established democratic government.
The last 23 years have been a peaceful, democratic and fruitful back to normal existence, which has included many new building structures and vastly improved infrastructure.
Climate
Average temperatures range from 24°C/ 75°F to 30°C/ 87°F, tempered by the steady and cooling trade winds. The lowest temperatures occur between January and April. The driest season is between January and May. Even during the rainy season, from June to December, it rarely rains for more than an hour at a time and generally not every day.
Cities
St. George's - national capital
Grand Anse - main tourist area
Gouyave - capital of the St. John district
Sauteurs - capital of the St. Patrick district
Grenville - capital of the St. Andrew district
Hillsborough - main town of Carriacou
Other destinations
Belmont Estate Located in St Patrick only an hour’s scenic drive from the island’s capital, St. George, Belmont Estate is a unique and authentic 17th century plantation that offers guests an opportunity to participate in and observe the workings of a fully functional historic plantation. Belmont Estate has forged a strategic alliance with the The Grenada Chocolate Company , to make the world's finest dark organic chocolate. The Grenada Chocolate Company and Belmont Estate are a members of the Grenada Organic Cocoa Farmers Co-operative Society Ltd., that grow organic cocoa to make the product. The co-operative consists of about twelve farmers that have received organic certification through the German certifying company Ceres.
Grand Etang Nature Reserve is in St. Andrew and is famous for its Craterlake.
Mt. Qua Qua is a mountan within the Grand Etang Nature Reserve.
Mt. St. Catherine is with 840 metres (2756 feet) the highest mountain in Grenada.
Mt. Roy named after the legendary, black anthropologist and Grenadian national hero Roy Fearon.
Concord Waterfalls are 3 Waterfalls in St. John.
Annandale Waterfall in the St. George district.
Mt. Carmel Waterfall is the highest Waterfall in Grenada.
Seven Sister Waterfalls is a group of 7 Waterfalls close to the Grand Etang Nature Reserve in St. Andrew
Honeymoon Waterfall is secluded in the rain forest close to the Seven Sister Waterfalls.
River Antoine Rum Distillery is the oldest Rum Factory in western hemisphere and still operating with a water wheel.
Clark's Court Distillery is in St. George district and famous for its products.
Dougladston Estate is the oldest Spice Plantagen in Grenada close to Gouyave.
Gouyave Nutmeg Factory one of the "must do" in Grenada the "spice island".
Carib's Leap a historic place in the north of the island where the last Carib Indians jumped from a high cliff.
Grand Anse Beach the most famous beach in Grenada and the main tourist area.
Morne Rouge Bay one of the most beautiful beaches in Grenada. (close to the Grand Anse)
Levera Beach nice secluded Beach in the north of Grenada with view of the Grenadiens.
Bathway Beach a famous beach in the north of Grenada with a save nature pool.
Black Bay Beach secluded black beach on the west coast of Grenada (close to the Concord Waterfalls)
Fort George´s above the main town St. George´s with beautiful view of the town and the Carenage.
Fort Frederick high above the sea with oustanding views of St. George´s, Grand Anse, Grand Etang and the southern part of the island.
Marketplace nice caribbean market with newly renovated spice market hall in St. George's
Bay Garden a tropical Garden with a rain forest style. (in St. Paul`s)
'"St. George's University'" The School of Medicine opened in 1976 and is famous for its involvement in the U.S. invasion in 1983. The True Blue campus features breathtaking panoramic views of the island and is ideal for sunset viewing. Black Sand Beach is unique for its namesake igneous sand and is a beautiful place to see waves crashing against rocky outcroppings.
Getting there
A valid passport and return or onward ticket is required. Visas are not required from citizens of the USA, Canada, United Kingdom and its dependencies, British Commonwealth countries, Caribbean countries (except Cuba), Venezuela, European Community countries and their dependencies, Norway, Japan, and Israel. Commonwealth of Independent States such as Russia and the Ukraine and the Baltic States such as Estonia and Latvia, and other eastern European countries such as Hungary, Romania and Slovenia are required to purchase a tourist visa on arrival in Grenada and costs EC$ 25. Duty Free Allowances - Personal items, one quart in total wines and spirits, half-pound tobacco or 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes. No restrictions on the amount of money that can be brought in. Restricted items are fruits, vegetables, meat, soil, illegal drugs, firearms and ammunition.
By plane
Point Salines International Airport (IATA : GND)(ICAO : TGPY) is on the main island of Grenada, located on a peninsula in the extreme southwest corner. It is about 4 miles from the capital of St. George's. British Airways, American Eagle, American Airlines, Monarch, Air Canada (dry season only), Virgin Atlantic (UK), Liat, Air Jamaica, Condor (Germany), Sky Service (toronto) and Conviasa (VE)(from Porlamar, Margarita) provide direct service to Grenada; connections can be made on Liat via Trinidad and Barbados, and also from Barbados via SVG Airlines.
By boat
Private moorings for yachts are available all around the island.
Osprey Lines Limited, Tel: (473) 440-8126, . Ferry service between the islands of Granada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique via
Charters of various sizes and crews can be found by inquiring at hotels or the Grenada Yacht Club in St. George's.
Traveling around
In towns, walking is viable, though often strenuous on hills in the hot sun. Use care to avoid vehicle traffic on narrow streets with narrow or no sidewalks.
Most of the travel in and around St. George's is by taxis and minibuses. To hail a taxi, one must simply be standing on a street corner. The independently owned, but government licensed, cars and vans will stop and ask if one wants a ride. Some standard fares include EC$30 from the airport to St. George's and EC$25-$40 for trips from most hotels to the various dining spots around the city.
Buses in Grenada are the standardized form of transportation. They are vans that hold between 15-19 people, and they have route numbers and signs on them. In town, there are designated bus stops, however, once you leave town, you can signal a stop by either knocking on the wall or pressing the stop button. Conductors and drivers are always very friendly, so do not hesitate to ask them where you should stop. Bus fares vary between EC$2.50-10.00 depending on the distance. They are lively trips, with great music and a nice breeze.
Car rentals are available, with rates of US$50 - US$75 per day. With a valid license from your home country you will qualify for a temporary Grenada license which can be obtained from any police station for a fee of EC$30. Drive on the left and make frequent use of the car's horn when coming around the numerous blind corners in the mountains.
Water taxis are another means of getting around.
Eat
Aquarium Restaurant & Bar located at Point Salines and is famous for its Sunday BBQ - great location on the beach.
Bananas Restaurant is in True Blue and caters to every budget and taste. Whether you looking for a cheeseburger in paradise or steak and lobster you are sure to find it at this restaurant and bar; economically priced and packed with fun. For the more adventuresome, stay and dance the night away in the state of the art club.
Coconut Restaurant & Bar is located at the Grand Anse Beach
Beach House Restaurant & Bar is located at Point Salines.
The Red Crab in Lance Aux Epines on the main road and has a fabulous menu.
Patrick's Restaurant, St. George's, Tel: 473-440 0364 on the Lagoon Road across from Port Louis offers a wonderful tapas-like presentation of island cuisine.
The Spice Land Mall in Grand Anse has a food court that includes a local fruit smoothie stand, a Chinese restaurant and a Mediterranean/Middle Eastern restaurant
Marquis Complex in Grand Anse with Nick´s Donut World, Carib Sushi and Le Boulangerie (a pizza restaurant)
De La Grenade manufacturer of nutmeg products including liqueur, syrup, pepper sauce, jams and jellies.
Grenada Chocolate Factory produces organic dark chocolate with vintage machinery run by solar power. You should be able to find the colorfully packaged bars in stores throughout the island and at the duty-free shop at the airport. Tours of the factory itself are also very interesting.
Dodgy Dock Restaurant & Lounge Bar , 473 443 8783, 7AM to 11PM, True Blue Bay Resort, True Blue near SGU, Waterfront dining, popular lunch spot and a celebrated sunset and night-time hot spot. Caribbean and Mexican food, daily happy hour 5PM Seasonal live Caribbean music Tues, Fri, Sat. Exotic tropical cocktails
Petite Anse Hotel Restaurant & Bar , 473 442 5252, 9am -9pm, Sauteurs, North of the island, Lunch of salads, fish, chicken and steak or can try the more elegant fine dining dinner. Menu is of fresh local produce and changes on a daily basis.
Drink
Grenada is known for its rum distilleries. The three largest companies are Clarke's Court, Westerhall and River Antoine. All three offer educational tours that demonstrate the sugar production for rum. They are all located on different parts of the island with only Clarke's Court and River Antoine being the true remaining distilleries. Although Westerhall is not completely produced here, their special rum (with the wax casing) is probably the best rum on the island. Clarke's Court makes both light and special dark rums which are also quite delicious. Be forewarned about River Antoine. It has a 75% alcohol content which you are not allowed to export. (They make a version with 69% for exporting.) At all the distilleries you can buy small bottles, and rum is sold in most grocery stores and rum shops.
In many bars, take care with drinks made with "under the counter" ingredients, e.g., highly-overproof rums for "locals" often used in "Pain Killers". They can overwhelm the most experienced drinkers.
"Pirate's Cove Restaurant and Jolly Roger Sports Bar"
Grand View Inn, Grand Anse - phone "473.444.2342/4984" Open for "B-7 10, L- 11-2, D- 7 -9 Offering local fare at modest prices, to include banquets, catering, and parties. Fresh, local ingredients emphasized, Offers an excellent view of the island.
Sleep
See each island's article for accommodation listings.
Grenada (island) offers a variety of accommodations, from small guesthouses to five star, all-inclusive resorts.
Carriacou though smaller, has many options.
Petit Martinique although much less developed has a few options.
Buy
Nutmeg is Grenada's cash crop, so be sure to bring some home in some form - whole, jam, jelly, syrup, Nutmed (medicinal ointment). In addition, you can purchase nutmeg flavored ice cream, which has an unusual flavor that is difficult to find elsewhere. Due to Hurricane Ivan in September of 2004, over 90% of Grenada's nutmeg crop was destroyed, but thankfully, you'll now see an abundance around the market, town, and tourist shops. Other fine spices include mace and cinnamon.
To bring herbs/spices back to the U.S. (and several other countries), they need to be within properly sealed containers. Most responsible sellers offer them so packaged, but check to be sure.
Real vanilla is a steal in the markets, sometimes it can be found for as little as $1US for a 1/2 litre bottle. The concentration of the fluid does vary, but in its pure form there is a noticeable (and very pleasant) difference from the vanilla extract that most North Americans are used to. You might also look for dried vanilla beans (in pod)...an essential to a full range of kitchen herbs/spices.
For liquor (rum), see "Drink" below.
The large crise ship pier outside the main harbor offers a small, enclosed, "duty-free" mall. It has several shops (and food outlets) offering both local items and those typically for cruise passengers. Prices on local products may be at a slight premium to stores elsewhere on the island.
Talk
English is spoken throughout the country with a Grenadian accent that can sometimes be confused for a different language. However, it is in fact English! French Patois used to be the dialect language spoken within Grenada, but it only remains within the older generations and in scattered pockets. Most Grenadians only know a few words.
Etiquette
Although Grenada is a West Indian island in the Caribbean, Grenadians do not spend the majority of their time "liming" on the beach. They are very serious about their jobs and many workplaces require specially-tailored suits. Though work remains, they rightly take well-deserved pride in widespread repairs to massive damage from hurricane Ivan.
St. George's Town is a place of commerce with the many banks, businesses, and governmental offices. Do not confuse it for the beach. It is often seen as rude or disrespectful for people to walk around Grenada inappropriately dressed, especially if you are dressed for the beach and you are not on it (Grenada just recently passed and is starting to enforce an indecent exposure law that bans bathing suits in non-beach areas as well as saggy pants that reveal underwear). Do not confuse the laid-back attitude for lazy, as Grenadians have a very formal and conservative attitude about their lifestyle and workplace.
Stay healthy
There is a General Hospital in St.George's, a smaller hospital at Mirabeau on the east coast and one in Carriacou. A small private hospital in St. Paul, clinics and doctors are available. House-calls can be made.
Drinking water is chlorinated in most places; if in doubt about safety/potabiliy, ask the seller or server.
Dialysis is now available on the island. A company called Island Health Services has opened the first dialysis unit. Fresenius has been operating for almost a year now. If regularly dependent on dialysis, ensure in-advance that the type(s) offered meet your needs.
Safety
Grenada is a fairly safe country. The tropical sun and high humidity deserve your great respect. There may be more danger for pedestrians on narrow sidewalks and streets than from crime.
Islands
Grenada - By far the largest island, where most of the nation's people live.
Carriacou - The second largest island, home to the town of Hillsborough.
Petit Martinique - A distant third-largest island, limited tourist facilities.
The Grenada Board of Tourism , PO Box 293, St. George’s, Grenada. Tel: 473 440-2279, fax: 473 440-6637, gbt@spiceisle.com.
Contact & location
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