Grenada Guide

Something about this island—smell the air scented with nutmeg and frangipani—Isle of Spice aptly describes this diverse southern Caribbean beauty. Lying across the equator, Grenada (Gra-nay-da) and neighbors Carriacou (Carry-a-koo) and Petit Martinique (Pitty Mar-ti-neek) are the furthest south in the group of islands comprising the Lesser Antilles and Windward Islands, about 70 miles south of St. Vincent and 100 miles north of Venezuela. Lush, green volcanic mountains (Mt. St. Catherine tops out at 2,756 ft.), magnificent beaches, excellent dive sites, and exciting sailing make these islands an ideal holiday location.

Ciboneys and Arawaks were the island’s first inhabitants, long before Columbus stopped by in 1498. Spanish, French, and British ownership occurred over the next 400 years until the island was proclaimed a British Crown Colony in 1877. Today, Grenadians are proud of their varied heritage and govern themselves and nearby Carriacou and Petit Martinique in a parliamentary style government.

Grenada’s diverse and colorful people embrace visitors to their special island. Touring and hiking through the spectacular capital city of St. George’s, along the Carenage, the semi-circular roadway sweeps around the bay reflecting the red-roofed colonial city. Local craft and spice shops mingle with international restaurants, museums, and Market Square, the gathering place for buying and selling produce and spices.

The famous Grande Anse Beach and Lance Aux Epines lie at the southern end of the island and are home to Grenada’s fine hotels, water sports, and tourist facilities. Many dramatic bays and coves punctuate the island’s southern and eastern shoreline making this area a favorite with sailors and yachtsmen. Accommodations range from several 5-star resorts to moderately priced hotels, inns, guesthouses, and private homes. The French influence is prevalent in the cuisine at many restaurants, alongside the Caribbean favorites. Island tours are available to take you around the island, exploring many historical points of interest.

A visit to neighboring Carriacou (20-minute flight) is easily arranged by air or boat. Although a little hilly, Carriacou is not mountainous like Grenada. It is ideal for walking, boasting fine sandy beaches, natural harbours and beautiful views over the Grenadine islands. Petit Martinique (3 miles from Carriacou) has not been developed for tourism, but is an interesting place to visit by local boat from Carriacou.

Grenada, a small island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, has a rich and varied history that dates back thousands of years. The island was first inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Arawaks and Caribs, who called the island Camerhogne.

In 1498, Christopher Columbus became the first European to set foot on the island, claiming it for Spain. The Spanish attempted to colonize Grenada, but were met with resistance from the Caribs. In 1650, the French established a settlement on the island and began to cultivate sugarcane using enslaved Africans. The British also had a presence on the island, but it wasn’t until 1762 that they gained control of Grenada through the Treaty of Paris.

The island’s economy flourished under British rule, with sugarcane, cocoa, and spice production becoming major industries. However, the use of enslaved labor and harsh working conditions led to several revolts and uprisings, including the famous Bussa Rebellion in 1816. The British eventually abolished slavery in 1834, leading to a decline in the sugarcane industry and the introduction of indentured labor from India and China.

In 1958, Grenada joined the Federation of the West Indies, but tensions between the larger islands and smaller ones, including Grenada, led to its dissolution in 1962. Grenada gained full independence from Britain in 1974, with Sir Eric Gairy becoming the first Prime Minister.

However, political instability and economic struggles plagued Grenada in the following years. In 1979, a Marxist-Leninist revolutionary named Maurice Bishop led a coup d’état and established the People’s Revolutionary Government. This sparked international controversy and strained relations with the United States, who viewed the new government as a threat to their interests in the region.

In 1983, tensions within the government led to a power struggle between Bishop and his deputy, Bernard Coard. On October 19th, a military coup led by Coard resulted in the execution of Bishop and several members of his government. This event, known as the Grenada Revolution, sparked a US-led intervention known as Operation Urgent Fury, which overthrew the Coard regime and restored order to the island.

Since then, Grenada has transitioned to a democratic government and has experienced economic growth through tourism, agriculture, and the export of spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. The island has also faced natural disasters, including hurricanes and a devastating category 4 hurricane in 2004, but has shown resilience and recovery.

Today, Grenada is a thriving island nation with a unique blend of Caribbean, African, and European influences. Its history is a testament to the strength and resilience of its people, who have overcome challenges and adversities to create a vibrant and diverse culture.