Grenada: Visit Pure Grenada

Welcome to the Spice of the Caribbean; a place where untouched beauty meets our warm people content with a simple way of life. Grenada offers a lifestyle so pure and authentic that you feel instantly renewed. Our enchanting islands boasts silky stretches of white sand beaches, sunken treasures adorned by corals and unspoilt landscapes undiscovered by crowds. So, take a journey like never before; a journey that is pure and real. Welcome to Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique!

Discover the Spice of the Caribbean
Welcome to Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique – a tri-island state often referred to as the Island of Spice. Located in the Southern Caribbean, we play host to the world’s first Underwater Sculpture Park, cascading waterfalls and white-sand beaches. You will feel instantly welcomed by the open hearted nature of our friendly people, whose smiles and authenticity make Grenada the perfect Caribbean getaway.

Tourism In Grenada
Economic progress in fiscal reforms and prudent macroeconomic management have boosted annual growth to 5%–6% in 1998–99; the increase in economic activity has been led by construction and trade. Tourist facilities are being expanded; tourism is the leading foreign exchange earner. Major short-term concerns are the rising fiscal deficit and the deterioration in the external account balance. Grenada shares a common central bank and a common currency (the East Caribbean dollar) with seven other members of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS)

Grenada is a leading producer of several different spices. Cinnamon, cloves, ginger, mace, allspice, orange/citrus peels, wild coffee used by the locals, and especially nutmeg, providing 20% of the world supply, are all important exports. The nutmeg on the nation's flag represents the economic crop of Grenada; the nation is the world's second largest producer of nutmeg (after Indonesia).



Tourism is Grenada's main economic force. Conventional beach and water-sports tourism is largely focused in the southwest region around St George, the airport and the coastal strip; however, ecotourism is growing in significance. Most of these small ecofriendly guesthouses are located in the Saint David and Saint John parishes. The tourism industry is increasing dramatically with the construction of a large cruise ship pier and esplanade. Up to four cruise ships per day were visiting St. Georges in 2007–2008 during the cruise ship season.

St. Georges University has rapidly expanded in recent years, and has a major economic impact, particularly in southern portions of the island. While some of its approximately 5000 students are from Grenada, including many undergraduates, and many medical students serve rotations off of the island, the majority of students are from other countries and bring substantial revenue to the island while studying there. St. Georges University is among the island's largest employers, and students patronize many off-campus landlords and other businesses.
Grand Anse Beach, St. George.

The island has also pioneered the cultivation of organic cocoa which is also processed into finished bars by the Grenada Chocolate Company.

Tourism is concentrated in the southwest of the island, around St. George, Grand Anse, Lance Aux Epines, and Point Salines. Grenada has many idyllic beaches around its coastline including the 3 km (1.9 mi) long Grand Anse Beach in St George which is considered to be one of the finest beaches in the world and often appears in countdowns of the world's top ten beaches.Besides these excellent beaches, tourists’ favorite points of interest yet in Grenada are the waterfalls. The nearest to St. George’s is the Annandale Waterfalls, but other notable ones like Mt. Carmel, Concord, Seven Sisters and Tufton Hall are also within easy reach.

Flights at the Maurice Bishop International Airport connect with other Caribbean islands, the United States, Canada, and Europe. There is also a daily fast ferry service between St. George and Hillsborough. Beginning in October 2009 new passenger ferry service between Grenada, Barbados, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, and Trinidad provided by Grenada-based BEDY Ocean Line is scheduled to begin. However, as of January 2013, this service has not gone operational.


Waterfalls
There is no greater adventure than getting to a waterfall in Grenada. Annandale Falls is a short drive from the capital city of St Georges. If you’re nervous about hiking, Annandale has a paved pathway and is perfect for rock hopping and picnicking. For those who enjoy discovering hidden treasures and are game for a trek that reveals the beauty spots of our island, try Concord, Mount Carmel and Seven Sisters Waterfalls. We recommend you take a guide, start the day early and bring suitable hiking shoes and most definitely swimwear – the water will surely cool you down after a stimulating trek!

Annandale Waterfalls
Located on Grenada | Waterfalls
Just a short drive from the capital, Annandale Falls are enclosed in a garden of green and a wall of rocks covered in soft ferns and other vegetation. A dip is most invigorating.

Concord Waterfalls
Located on Grenada | Waterfalls
Concord waterfalls is a challenge for the unprepared, but exhilarating for those accustomed to rushing falls from on high. Walk the walk if you wish, or simply admire from a standstill.

Royal Mt. Carmel Waterfalls
Located on Grenada | Waterfalls
Situated two miles south of Grenville, and also known as the Marquis Falls, this is the highest on the island, with two falls cascading over 70 feet into the pools below. It is difficult to get lost, as the sound of the falls will lead you directly there.

Victoria Waterfalls
Located on Grenada | Waterfalls
Reaching these towering falls is a challenge well worth the effort for the more adventurous. Located inland south east of Victoria, it is best to have a guide to find these breathtaking falls along the St. Mark’s River.

Discover Carriacou
Carriacou and Petite Martinique boast the most beautiful coral reefs. Carriacou – the larger of the two – is known as the ‘Land of Reefs’, with shallow clear waters: ideal for snorkelling. Occupants of both islands are independent and fiercely traditional. On Carriacou – home to 6,000 people – the musical customs of their African descendants can be experienced at the Carriacou Maroon and String Band Music Festival held in the month of April.

French settlers were the first on Petite Martinique, which is an island not phased by modernity. Petit Martiniquians make their livelihood from boat-building and fishing – a skill they have mastered, which is fascinating to hear about and witness. If you’re seeking a more authentic experience, a short trip by ferry or local aircraft will transport you to the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Carriacou’s History
The earliest written records dating back to 1656, suggest that Caribs named Carriacou ‘Kayryouacou’ - meaning ‘land surrounded by reef’. Archaeological discoveries of pottery tools from approximately 1000 AD reveal that Arawaks and Caribs from South America were the first settlers on the island.

The French were the first European settlers in Carriacou. In 1763, it was surrendered along with Grenada to the British. Although the majority of Carriacou’s inhabitants are of African descent, European influences can still be found in the way Carriacouians live and also in the names of our towns, cities and people.

On the shores of Carriacou, you will see rows of locally built boats, from small fishing sloops to large trading schooners. The village of Windward was home to a group of Scottish boat builders who settled in Carriacou during the 19th century and passed on their practices, which are still used in boat building today. You can still witness boats being built in the traditional way on the beaches of Carriacou.

Carriacouians today earn their living through rearing their own livestock, farming, growing corn and mainly fishing. Previously, they produced their own cotton, sugar, limes, coffee and cocoa.

Carriacou’s Culture
Carriacouians have rich traditions and customs passed through generations influenced by their African and European ancestors. There are so many cultural experiences to take in and capture-worthy celebrations, be it as a witness to a traditional wedding or boat-launching event, watching the Big Drum Nation Dance or Shakespeare Mas, or taking part in All Saint Candle Lighting ‘Pass Play’ and Fishermen Birthday Celebrations.

In the village of Windward, sailing boats were built using traditional methods passed down by Scottish settlers in Carriacou. A number of initiatives have been put in place to encourage young people to learn to art of boat building by producing model boats, and the excitement of boat building is kept alive through the annual Carriacou Regatta held in the month of August.

Boat building and boat launching is a tradition taken very seriously in Carriacou. At boat launching events, goats and sheep are sacrificed. Their blood and holy water is sprinkled onto the boats and a priest blesses it in a naming ceremony. Children chosen to be Godchildren of the boat are dressed in bright colors and line the deck. After the ceremony, the shoals are cut down and everyone pulls the ropes to launch the boat into sea.

In addition to Carriacou Regatta, there is Tombstone Feast, known to our people as ‘Saraca’. When someone dies, young men go out on donkeys chanting ‘Sake tan pale lot, who hear tell the others Mr. so-and-so dead’. At the wake, which can be up to 7 days before the burial, hymns are sung and bush tea is served to mourners. The term ‘Happy Hour’ is now more commonly used, and alcoholic and canned beverages are served instead. A stone feast occurs three years after someone has died with a tombstone bearing information of the deceased’s name, date of birth and death. It is then installed when relatives travel from overseas to be part of Saraca feast.

The people of Carriacou celebrate the African tribes they originated from through music and dance. The names of these tribes are Ibo, Congo, Temne, Mandinka, Chamba and Kromati. The ‘Big Drum Dance’ or ‘Nation Dance’ of Carriacou is widely celebrated alongside other performances known as the Kalenda, Juba, Belair, Granbelair, Hallecud and Bongo, which are danced at weddings, boat launchings, tombstone feasts and Maroons.

The three symbolic drums are made from small wooden rum kegs painted red, with a drum surface made from goatskin. The treble drum, which is the largest, is placed in the centre, with small bass drums on each side. These are all played with open palms while women shake Shac Shacs (organic instrument) and sing. People are encouraged to sing along and dance to the rhythmic sounds of the drum.

The Quadrille Dance, which originates from France, is usually performed in the village of L'Esterre. It is the second most popular dance in Carriacou and, unlike the ‘Big Drum Dance’, the music is provided by world-renowned artiste Canute Calliste, who plays the violin alongside three other musicians.

The Maroon festival is an important aspect of life in Carriacou. During a ‘Maroon’ villagers come together and cook traditional foods and partake in the big ‘Big Drum Dance’. The annual Maroon and String Band Music Festival is a three-day event of activities that showcase a display of local food, crafts, music and dance. The entire island comes together to make it a fun-filled event and it is deemed a major tourist attraction.

Carnival in Carriacou is still very traditional. On the eve of Carnival Tuesday, revellers partake in a traditional mas called ‘Pierrot’, known today as ‘ShortKnee’. It is a masquerade that mimics the customs of plantation owners. Revellers dressed in brightly-coloured clothing, white facemasks and knee-length socks have face-offs by reciting passages from Shakespeare. Each reveller carries a bullwhip and if the passages are recited incorrectly, it results in a strike with the bullwhip.

Meet the People
Inhabitants of Carriacou and Petite Martinique are primarily of French origin. Patois (broken French) is spoken throughout the island, particularly in rural areas. A lot of the non-standard English used by our people derived from European settlers on the island.

The first census in 1750 reported a population of 199 people in Carriacou. This grew to 86 Europeans and 3,153 African slaves (excluding freed slaves) by 1776. As a result of seamanship, smuggling and other practices, the inhabitants of Petite Martinique have emerged as one of the wealthiest islands per capita in the West Indies. The surnames of most Petite Martiniquians link to French settlers, while Carriacouans can identify the exact African tribe they originated from.

Getting to Grenada
Grenada is served by International airlines and cruise companies from North American, Europe and throughout the Caribbean. International flights stop at Maurice Bishop International Airport, and visitors wishing to continue on to the sister isle of Carriacou have a short trip by inter-island charter to Lauriston Airport. Cruise ships serving our islands depart from Florida and Puerto Rico.

Grenada's New Jet Centre Facility
We are pleased to announce that visitors to the island now have the option of utilizing our new jet facility at the Maurice Bishop International Airport! Catering to first class/premium passengers and business general aviation services, the Jet Centre is the first of its kind. More information on the Centre's services and other luxuries offered coming soon.

Required Documents
A valid passport and return ticket is required for all visitors. A proof of citizenship bearing a photograph is acceptable from British, Canadian and American citizens. Please note that as mandated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, all travellers from the USA must provide a passport to enter or re-enter the USA on vacation or business travel. A visa is not required from citizens of the USA, Canada, UK and most European countries, British Commonwealth, most Caribbean countries, South Korea and Japan.
Traveling to Grenada by Air

From the UK, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic continue to service Grenada with twice weekly direct flights from London’s Gatwick Airport.

From the US, American Airlines services Grenada with direct flights. Delta Air also provides non-stop flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York to Grenada except during the period of September 1st through December 15th. However, from 6 June 2015, Delta Air began weekly non-stop flights from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and will continue until 15 August 2015.

In addition, Caribbean Airlines services Grenada with flights to Orlando, New York and Miami. jetBlue also began its twice weekly service to Grenada from New York’s John F. Kennedy International on 11 June 2015.

From Canada, Grenada can be reached via Caribbean Airlines that operates a once weekly nonstop service from Toronto to Grenada on Sundays.

Air Canada Vacations also operate a seasonal nonstop flight from Toronto to Grenada. Air Canada also has year round daily flights from Toronto to Barbados on Saturday and Sunday with connections on LIAT to Grenada. In addition, West Jet operates a flight from Toronto to Barbados with connections on LIAT to Grenada year round. Special weekly nonstop summer charters are also available with GG Tours on Sunwing.

From the CaribbeanLIAT Airlines provides connections into Grenada's Maurice Bishop International Airport from many Caribbean islands along with connections to International flights from Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia and Trinidad. Caribbean Airlines also provides flights from Grenada to Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.

From Venezuela: Conviasa Airlines provides a twice-weekly service from Porlamar, Margarita, into Grenada with stops in Trinidad.

If you would like to visit our sister island, the SVG Air provides daily flights to and from Carriacou's Lauriston Airport.

Getting Around
Getting around in Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique is easy. If you prefer exploring the islands independently, there are several vehicle rental companies to choose from. For a more authentic experience, why not hop on-board our public buses? Water taxis and taxicabs are also available for private hire. If you want a comprehensive tour of the islands, there is a wide variety of tour companies offering specialised tours to choose from.
Public transit

If you are looking for an authentic experience take public transport and you will get to experience the daily lifestyle, music, conversations and characters of Grenadian people. To identify your start and alighting point, zone stickers are placed at the front of each bus. There is always a conductor managing the passengers, who will be able to help if you need it. Local buses operate between the hours of 6.00am to 9.00pm from Monday to Saturday. Depending on your route, the fare can range from EC$2.50 to EC$6.50.
Rental cars

If you prefer to enjoy the Spice Islands on your own time and hit a few spots in one day, renting a car may be the ideal choice. Grenada has several car rental companies to choose from. Rates range between approximately US$50 to US$75 per day. Renting a car for a longer duration usually results in lower daily rates. In the high season from July to August, rentals must be secured for a minimum of at least three days. Most rental car agencies require drivers to be 25 years and over. Before visitors get behind the wheel, they must first secure a Grenadian driving permit, which can be obtained by providing a valid driver's license at the police station. The police station is location on The Carenage in the capital city of St Georges. A fee of EC$60 is required. Some rental companies provide drivers with a local permit as part of their service.

Events
Annual Carriacou Regatta
The love of the sea, boat building skills and a natural inclination to compete have made Carriacou Regatta one of the most excitingly diverse in the Caribbean.

Spicemas
The premier cultural event for Grenada, ‘Spicemas’ is Grenadian expression in all its glory, climaxing during the second Monday and Tuesday in August.