Grenada (pronounced gre NAY da in English; NOT gre NA da) is also known as The Spice Island because it is a major producer of nutmeg, cinnamon, mace, and saffron. The nutmeg is so integral to Grenada’s culture and economy that it is featured on the official flag. Nutmeg is added to Grenadian food, drinks and can be used for medicinal purposes.
The country of Grenada is located in the Eastern Caribbean and consists of three islands: Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Grenada’s Caribbean neighbours are The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (southeast) and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (northeast). Grenada’s closest South American neighbour is Venezuela (southwest).
Area:
Grenada: 311 square km
Carriacou: 34 square km
Petite Martinique: 2 square km
Climate: Average temperatures range from 24C – 30C, with a cool breeze. The lowest temperatures occur between November and February. Although the climate is warm all year round, Grenada experiences some seasonal changes depending on altitude. The Dry Season is between January and May and the Rain Season is from June to December.
Population: 100,000
Official Language: English
Capital City: St. George’s
Official Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
Music: Extempo, Calypso, Steel Pan (steel drum is not the correct name), Soca
Public Safety: Grenada is a peaceful, safe and easy-going country. However, it is best not to flaunt your money or else Grenadians will think you want to share it with them! It is best to walk in pairs or small groups at night as a tourist. Do not wander to unfamiliar neighbourhoods. You can also ask us at Carifrique, your guesthouse or hotel manager for advice.
Food and drink: Grenadian food – similar to Trinidadian food – is influenced by Nigerian, Ghanaian, French and British cuisine. You can buy safe and delicious food at busy street stalls or in local restaurants. Oildown is Grenada’s national dish. It is made with breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis), coconut milk, meat and other vegetables. Nutmeg, mace, saffron and pepper are commonly-used spices. To see how spices and herbs are grown in Grenada visit Belmont Estate Spice Plantation, De La Grenada Nutmeg Garden, Jessamine Eden Tropical Botanic Garden, Smithy’s Garden and Laura’s Herb & Spice Garden. Rum is the most popular local alcoholic beverage and visits to local rum distilleries (Westerhall Estate, Belmont Estate and River Antoine Rum Distillery) are a must when you travel to Grenada. Bottled water, fruit juices and soda pop can be bought in convenience stores and grocery stores.
Music and Clubbing: Grenada’s best live music can be heard at clubs, restaurants or at the many festivals. St. George’s has bars and clubs that open nightly. The most popular clubs and bars are Karma Nightclub, The Owl, Club Bananas and Fantazia 2001.
Beaches: Grenada has over 40 beaches and they are officially public. Some of Grenada’s most famous beaches are Grand Anse Beach, Morne Rouge Beach, Bathway Beach and La Sagesse Beach.
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