Nicknamed the "Spice Island", Grenada is an independent Caribbean nation made up of three islands - Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. It has this nickname because it has more spices per square mile than any other place in the world. The white sandy beaches and the lush interior offer a winning combination for the most luxurious vacation when you choose to spend it on this Caribbean island.
Daily flights arrive at the Point Salines International Airport from major cities in the US and from London. It is only a short drive from the airport to the major hotels on the island. The rates charged by the taxis are set by the government, but you can expect an increase of 33% in the fare after 6 p.m. If you decide to rent a car while on Grenada, a US, British or Canadian driver's license is valid, but you must purchase a local permit. You must also drive on the left on the roads of Grenada.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Whether you are looking for a kitchenette apartment, a small intimate inn or a small resort, you will find the accommodation you want on Grenada. This island is known for having some of the most varied types of accommodations in the Caribbean. One of the best choices is one of the hotels along Grand Anse Beach where all you have to do is step outside the door and be right on the edge of the ocean. The various types of accommodation range from very expensive to cheap depending on what you are looking for and the length of time you plan to stay.
BEACHES
There are 45 beaches on Grenada, the best of which are located in the southwestern part of the island. Grand Anse Beach is known as the "granddaddy" of Grenada's beaches with its two miles of shimmering white sand. This is where most of the major hotels are located and with good reason. The waters are safe because the area is protected from strong winds and surf and it is the perfect spot for swimming. No wonder families love this beach. There are schools of colored fish in the water, palms along the beach offering shade and numerous types of watersports activities.
The beach at Morne Rouge Bay is just as beautiful as Grand Anse and is less crowded. It is noted as being one of the best snorkelling locations on the island. Pink Gin Beach is closer to the airport and is between two large resorts - LaSource and Rex Grenadian. It too has white sand and ideal conditions for snorkelling and swimming.
On the south coast of Grenada, you will find La Sagesse Beach, which is part of the La Sagesse Nature Center. The beach is very tranquil with powdery white sand, a small restaurant and nature trails in both directions.
Pearl's Beach on the northern coast facing the Atlantic has more turbulent waters than those beaches of the south. It has miles of light gray sand and is lined with palm trees. The Levera Beach, located at the northeastern tip of the island, is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It is part of the Levera National Park and since it does front the Atlantic Ocean, the waters can get rough here on times.
SPORTS
From November to March, avid fishermen come to Grenada to engage in the activity of deep-sea fishing. Some of the common species of fish that they seek include blue and white marlin, yellowfin tuna, wahoo and sailfish. Most of the larger hotels make the arrangements for the fishing trips for their guests. The Annual Game Fishing Tournament in January attracts thousands of participants.
The Grenada Golf Course and Country Club is a nine-hole course that afford spectacular views of both the Atlantic and the Caribbean waters.
Grenada is one of the best locations in the Caribbean for the hiking opportunities that are available. The hiking experience in the Grand Etang National Park and Forest Preserve is one of the best in the world, especially the Lake Circle Trail where you will be awestruck by the scenic beauty. This hike takes about 30 minutes to complete and takes you along the edges of a lake formed in the crater of an extinct volcano and through a bird sanctuary. Other popular hiking trails in this park include the Morne Lebaye Trail and the hike to the peak of Mount Qua Qua. This latter hike requires the services of a guide.
If you are looking for a party on Grenada, take advantage of one of the two large party boats designed to carry 120 and 250 passengers on a sail around the bay. Music, strong rum and a good time is the focus of these parties, which consist of three -hour tours morning, afternoon and evening.
Scuba diving and snorkelling in the underwater world of Grenada will allow you to glimpse the rich gardens under the sea. Teeming with all kinds of exotic fish and coral formations, this will be an experience to remember.
EXPLORING GRENADA
St. George's is the capital of Grenada and is a very picturesque city. It was built in the crater of a volcano and has a landlocked harbour with a small entrance to the open sea making it the perfect destination for cruise ships. There are charming Georgian buildings and the narrow streets are lined with houses built from ballast bricks. The main attractions in this town include the Anglican Church, dating back to the 18th century, Market Square, where you will see the local women decked out in colourful clothing selling all kinds of produce and wares and Fort George, which was built by the French to guard the entrance of the bay.
Explore the exhibits at the Grenada National Museum where you will see artifacts unearthed in archaeological expeditions and memorabilia detailing the history of the island. From the battlements of Fort Frederick, you have an astounding view of the harbour and the marina.
A 15-minute drive outside of St. George's will take you to the tropical wonderland of Annandale Falls that cascade from a height of almost 50 feet. You can shop for souvenirs at the gift shop or take a swim in the cool refreshing waters.
Visit Gouyave, the spice town that is the center of the mace and nutmeg industry on Grenada. Grenville is the second largest city on the island with a vibrant Saturday morning market and a fish market. Visit the nutmeg factory and take a tour of the facilities. Take a drive into the heart of the island to experience lush foliage and plantations where nutmeg, bananas and coconuts grow.