Destination
Grenada

 
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Overview

Grenada is often referred to as ’Spice Island’, and with more spices per square mile than anywhere else on the planet, it is indeed true that the sweet scents of nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and vanilla often linger in this clement climate. This adds an ’air’ of exoticism to the Caribbean country, which actually consists of three islands: Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Grenada is by far the largest, with a width of 12 miles (18km) and a length of 21 miles (34km), comprising mountainous, volcanic terrain. This topography provides Grenada with one of the loveliest and most varied environments in the Caribbean, including crater lakes, as well as a variety of plant and animal life. Dwarf forests high atop Mount St Catherine descend to the rainforests of middle altitudes, which give way in turn to the dry forests of the lowlands. Those forests shift to mangrove at the coast, giving way to stunning white sand beaches, brilliant blue water and exquisite coral reefs.

Just as there is often spice in the air, there is music if you seek it. With Grenada’s African origins, calypso is the music of the native Grenadian. Modern music has infiltrated in the form of reggae and pop but Carnival is still awash with traditional rhythms. West Indian rhythms also translate into West Indian dishes, with Grenada’s palate-tempting foods such as callaloo soup (much like spinach), seafood and seasoned meats.

 
eneral Information
 
Area

344.5 sq km (133 sq miles).

 
Population

89,211 (2002 estimate).

 
Population Density

266.7 per sq km.

 
Capital

St George’s. Population: 33,000 (UN estimate 2003).

 
Government

Constitutional monarchy.

 
Language

English. French African patois is also spoken by some of the population.

 
Religion

Roman Catholic 53%, Anglican 14%, as well as other smaller Protestant denominations, 33%.

 
Time

 
Social Conventions

Local culture reflects the island’s history of British and French colonial rule and, of course, the African cultures imported with the slaves – African influence is especially noticeable on the island of Carriacou in the Big Drum and in Grenada with the Shango dance. The Roman Catholic Church also exerts a strong influence on the way of life. Local people are generally friendly and courteous. Dress is casual and informal but beachwear is not welcome in town.

 
Electricity

220 volts AC, 50Hz.

 
Head of Government

Prime Minister Keith Mitchell since 1995.

 
Head of State

HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor-General Sir Daniel Williams since 1996.