Grenada Holidays

Part of the Windward Island chain in the Caribbean, Grenada is the southerly point on the map covering an area of 220 square kilometers. Aside from the main island which gave the region its name, there are two tiny bordering islands that form part Grenada; Carriacou and Petit Martinique. Consider Grenada holidays for unforgettable time of life.

Over the last 30 years, Grenada got some bad press due to hurricanes and an American invasion in the 80’s, but as an indication of the local resilience, the island didn’t take its setbacks lying down and subsequently reinvented itself to be the next tropical paradise. Its elliptical shape hides lush rainforests and beaches that have been underrated in the past.

The average temperatures range between 75 to 87 degrees Fahrenheit all year round, made mostly consistent by the cooling trade winds. The coldest months are between January and May, and still the weather remains surprisingly temperate. Approach the Caribbean’s hurricane season with caution and be sure to keep your eye on the National Hurricane Center for updates if you are planning to travel between June and November.

Columbus was quite active in the Caribbean, as he also discovered Granada in 1498. Since history has a habit of repeating itself, the island was the vocal point of new invasions, but the Caribs held their own until the 1600’s when the French made contact. Not wanting to submit to French rule, many of the surviving Caribs jumped from a precipice to their death. This cliff is known today as Leapers Hill

As the story goes with politics, it wasn’t long until the island fell under British control. Slaves rose up in rebellion, only to be crushed by soldiers, only to rise up again… In 1974, the country finally saw independence, and democracy was established in 1984. Slowly but surely the previously volatile island worked towards reinventing itself as a peaceful, self-sufficient state. In spite of its British rule, the previous French influence is more predominant.

A peaceful and fruitful coexistence now reigns, and Grenada established itself as the world’s third largest exporter of Nutmeg. Coincidentally, there is a nutmeg on the national flag. In the spirit of renewal, the infrastructure got a face lift, but stone buildings and forts from a time long forgotten still watch over the island. In spite of its earlier influences, the food is distinctly Caribbean, with dishes like crab curry, conch and manicou (which is another world for possum) thought you can expect to find plenty of more conventional dishes to cater to your own tastes.

The world is slowly catching on the many wonders that Grenada have to offer. The beaches are so white they seem to be actually glowing. Beyond these waters divers of all levels of expertise are in for a treat. If you are really lucky, you might even get to swim with an elusive sea turtle.

The island of Carriacou is a step behind in pace than Grenada, so it is the perfect place to be if you really want to appreciate warm hearted local hospitality and unspoiled scenery. Diving, sunbathing and hiking through mahogany forests are the main activities, but this is not to say that there is no life. Grenada is just fairly quieter when compared to other islands. Locals still party till the early morning hours, but the hotspots are just not so concentrated.

Unless you are a luxury traveler who wants 5 star luxury all the way (there are hotels to cater for that on Grenada) your best bet would be a family owned inn or a self-catering studio unit, complete with kitchen and all the amenities you might need. Self-catering need not be daunting in a foreign country, and you will find a very decent selection of fresh and recognizable produce at local markets.

Currently, the East Caribbean Dollar is exchanging for EC 2.60 to 1 US Dollar. Local banks will happily exchange Euros and Pounds, but shops won’t accept this currency. Violent crimes are not particularly prevalent in Grenada, and it is safe to say that there is the usual amount of petty thievery going on. Simply act like you would at home, assuming of course that you are contentious about not letting your valuables lie around. Grenada is the ideal destination for the world-weary traveler who wishes to get away from the hustle of everyday life.

Our Grenada holidays will definitely etch themselves on your memory.