Spice it Up

Grenada is known for being the spiciest of the Caribbean Islands; more spices per square mile are grown here than anywhere else on earth.  The spices in Grenada are abstract as well, with vacationers traveling to the Grenadines intent on spicing up their lives.

In recent years, Grenada has become increasingly concerned with preserving the country's natural sites.  At the same time, the interest in eco-tourism has become to grow, a bonus for the environment and the economy as well.  Most of the country's most popular attractions are nature-based, such as hiking trails through Grand Etang Forest, and River Salee Boiling Springs.  For more information, check out our comprehensive guide to Grenada Travel and Vacations.

Getting There

Traveler's flying into Grenada arrive at the Point Saline's International Airport, with direct flights available from most locations around the world.  Those wishing to visit Carriacou should fly to Grenada and then hop on a smaller plane to the island's airport, which is not able to accommodate large commercial flights.

Cruise ships are another means of transportation to the island, allowing visitors to dock in St. George's Harbour, and explore Grenada for a day or two, depending on the ships itinerary.  Those wishing to have more control over their arrival can sail their own personal watercraft into St. George's Harbor, though it is more popular for boaters to dock in Carriacou.

Entry Requirements

All visitors to Grenada, including those from within the Caribbean, must have a valid passport and an ongoing or return ticket.  Visas are not generally required for anyone staying in the country for less than three months.

Climate

Because temperatures remain relatively stable throughout the year, Grenada's seasons are measured by rainfall rather than heat index.  January through May is considered the dry season, while Grenada experiences heavy rainfall between the months of June and December, as well as strong wind gusts.  Grenada has quite the varied topography, and weather depends on where you are.  Coastal areas tend to experience more humidity, while the forested areas are cooler, and mountainous areas see light rain consistently, regardless of the season.  Average temperatures range from 75 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Geography

The nation of Grenada is comprised of the islands of Grenada, Carriacoa, and Petit Martinique, which take up a total area of 133 square miles.  Because of the islands' volcanic origin, they are mountainous and the lands tend to be quite fertile.  Mount Saint Catherine is the highest point in the country, reaching 2,757 feet above sea level.  Both black and white sand beaches ring around the islands, providing beach goers with more variety than some of the other islands in the Caribbean.

Health and Safety

Although crime is rare in Grenada, you should always ere on the side of caution and follow basic safety precautions such as traveling in groups and not flaunting large sums of money. There are 650 miles of paved roads to drive on in Grenada, making the island easy to navigate, though it would be advisable to carry a map with you when you hit the road on your own.  Remember that driving is done on the left side of the road in Grenada, and you should be fine.  One of the bonuses of traveling to Grenada is that the tap water is potable, so you shouldn't have to spend extra money on bottled water everywhere you go. 

People

Over 80 percent of Grenada's population resides in the black community, as decedents of the African slaves brought to the island to work the sugar plantations.  Though English is the official language, visitors may run across islanders who speak different variations of French, Creole, or African languages.  Overall, the people of the island are welcoming to vacationers, and tend to be friendly to those in need of assistance.