Grenada’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

 Grenada’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

As far as archaeological records show, Grenada was first inhabited by people called the Ciboney, believed to have settled around 1000 to 500 BC before the arrival of the Arawak people. The Arawak moved to the island of Grenada around 200 AD from the Amazon Basin of South America and were peaceful people. Archaeological sites have unearthed evidence showing that these settlers were skilled farmers and fishermen who’ve built boats. They’ve also left behind other archaeological treasures are the petroglyphs at Duquesne Bay in the Parish of St. Mark, where carvings on large boulders depict faces and drawings from the past. By 1000 AD, a more aggressive clan arrived from Sotuh America called the Caribs. In their wake, they’ve destroyed Arawak settlements and drove them out. Hundreds of years later, Grenada was sighted by Christopher Columbus in 1498 without landing and have it the name Concepciôn. Although by then, the name Grenada was not yet used. More than a century passed with more aggression from the Carib people towards the inhabitants of Grenada. During this time, British merchants attempted to form a settlement in 1609, although they were faced by the Caribs and forced to leave.

In 1649, a French expedition of more than 200 men from Martinique, led by Jacques Dyel du Parquet, founded a permanent settlement on Grenada, right after a fortified settlement was constructed by the Company of the Isles of America, it was bought by Parquet, then sold to Jean de Faudoas, and later bought by King Louis XIV in 1664 and shortly after became a French colony. In 1675, a Dutch privateers captured Grenada, but a French man-of-war arrived unexpectedly and recaptured the island. It remained under French rule until 1762 during the Seven Years War when the French ceded Grenada to the British, with the treaty of Paris. It is also believed to have acquired the name Grenada then. Around two decades later, it was recaptured by the French, making use of the American War of Independence, however, was restored to the British in 1783. The British imported a large numbers of slaves from Africa to work the sugar plantations, and develop the territory. However, the end of slavery was near, and by 1796, with the abolition of slavery favored by French policy, a rebllion broke out that killed a number of British, but the uprising was quelled. The abolition of slavery officially took place in 1834 and all the slaves were freed by 1838. Two decades later, Indian immigrants arrived and a period of development took place. The British rule continued until 1974, when Grenada became fully independent following two decades of reforms and constitutional changes. But, like many countries around the world, independence did not mean peace. Two coups followed the independence, and a short invasion by the Americans in 1983 when Grenada was seized by Marxist colonists. The following decades, into the 21st century saw multiple reforms, democracy restored, and a creation of more stable country.

Today Grenada keeps enjoying its several decades of peace and stable government with multiple efforts in infrastructure improvements, among many other developments. The island nation is famous for its spices, which include nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and cacao which gave it the moniker of the “Spice Isle”. Grenada is also the smallest independent country in the western hemisphere in the Caribbean sea, to the northeast of Trinidad and Tobago, and southwest of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This gorgeous tropical paradise, filled with lush tropical landscape and crystal clear waters is a perfect start to your Caribbean adventure.

It is made up of three big islands and several small ones. The large island is called Grenada, where you will find most of the population, six parishes, most of the cities, and the capital city of St George’s, and the tourist area of, Grand Anse. Carriacou is the second-largest island in Grenada, although being much smaller than Grenada itself. Hillsborough is a small town located on the island’s 13 square miles. Third biggest is the island of Petit Martinique, a volcanic island, and populated by less than a thousand people and offers few visitor amenities.

Grenada is a great option in the Caribbean if you want to spend a week or two on a relaxing tropical island that has not yet become a crowded, world tourist destination, although it should be. One of its primary selling points is the abundance of beautiful, soft-sand beaches. St. George’s, one of the most beautiful capitals in the area, sits on a series of rolling hills, while the interior is rugged and lush. Almost the size of Budapest, the island provides two days of leisurely exploration, with opportunities to see waterfalls, the rainforest (with great hikes), and chocolate, nutmeg, and other industries. Snorkeling and diving are also quite well-liked, and for good reason.

 

“Aromatic, authentic, and a glistening. Grenada’s surreal charm and carefree vibe, its picture-perfect beach surrounded by silky beaches, and the kindness of the Grenadian people will leave you wanting to return.”

 

Enjoy your first holiday in Grenada or another visit and the welcoming Grenadines from the comfort of a boat, a five start hotel, or a simple lodge, Grenada has all those possibilities sorted. Hotels are conveniently located in the southwest part of the main island, which is only a short distance from the Grenada airport. No skyscrapers have been built there, and only the Grand Anse region can be considered a resort. However, there is a wide variety of charming hotels to choose from, as well as delicious dining options and exciting nightlife (thanks to the presence of St. George’s University students and yachties).

While in Grenada, you’ll notice a distinct nutmeg aroma in the air. However, this island is also known as a Fruit Island due to the abundance of wonderful fruits that can be seen growing wild across the verdant countryside. However, it is also known as a Beach Island, home to countless stunning stretches of beach. Grenada’s allure comes from the spices that flourish in the island’s lush volcanic soil, the iodine that wafts in from the waves lapping at the shore, and the delicious aromas wafting from the hills. Tourists seeking a less commercialized Caribbean experience flocked there thanks to the island’s rich culture.

As for wildlife enthusiasts, more than 200 species of animals are present on the islands, some which are endemic to Grenada, and others have been introduced, including African mongoose and monkeys. Keep watch as you hike the forests and you will be rewarded with sightings of incredibly beautiful animals amid the lush forests.

It has all the typical Caribbean beauty one could want for, from verdant highlands and rainforests to quaint coastal communities and lovely beaches lined with tropical trees. Grenada’s timeless beauty is evident everywhere you turn, making it a popular destination for all types of tourists, from those on a low budget to those searching for a five-star resort overlooking a picture-perfect beach and forest. Visitors to Grenada can count on one thing: to unwind, eat their fill of the island’s food, and enjoy a cold drink while lounging on the island’s ideal beach.

The climate of Grenada is greatly influenced by the trade winds, which bring colder air to the island. Temperatures in the 20s and 30s Celsius are common. The months of January and April tend to be the coldest and driest of the year. The rainy season begins in June and continues till the year’s conclusion. During the rainy season, you may expect a few wet days per week. Thankfully, the sun returns in less than an hour to meet the waves and sands.

Staying on the move will allow you to take advantage of all that Grenada has to offer visitors. This Cruisit Grenada travel guide provides an itinerary that strikes a balance between leisure and exploration. Arrive in this untapped tropical paradise near the Caribbean side of South America, with a colonial vibe, and enjoy it to the fullest. The following itinerary for Grenada is tailored to the country’s peak tourist season but can be enjoyed during the shoulder months. With days spent in ancient parts of town in the company of legend, or surrounded by lush peaks and dramatic picture-perfect scenery, and tens of species to spot to explore on your hikes, Grenada will fulfill your wildest dreams.

Moreover, we will provide you with all the information you need to go across Grenada with ease by providing you with a comprehensive travel guide. As you read on, you’ll learn about the best of what Grenada has to offer—its towns, sights, transit options, and more. If you’re pumped up enough, then let’s get started!

Top Places in Grenada

Fort George

Visit this historical fortification if you have an interest in the past. This stronghold, which was constructed in the 18th century, may be accessed by taking a trek up the hill. Once there, hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the port and city below them.

Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park

This underwater sculpture park is sure to be a hit with scuba divers. You may dive, snorkel, or take a boat down into the bay to discover wonderful creative creations that have been designated as one of National Geographic’s 25 Wonders of the World.

Seven Sister Waterfalls

These seven breathtaking waterfalls may be found close to the Grand Etang Nature Reserve in St. Andrew. The reserve is known for its abundant flora and fauna. To get to the waterfalls requires a pleasant walk through the jungle that takes about half an hour, and once you get there, you may cool yourself in the pool that sits at the base of the falls.

Grand Anse Beach

This internationally renowned beach stretches for about three kilometers along the southwestern shore, and it features two miles of soft, white sand that is protected from the elements. Conveniently located water sport professionals, hotels, restaurants, and a Vendors Market providing a wide range of local services and goods.

Gouyave Nutmeg Factory

This manufacturing facility can provide you with an informative tour if you visit it on the west coast. During the tour, which lasts around twenty minutes, you will be shown the whole process, including stockpiling, cracking, sorting, the water testing, and grading by size.

7-day Itinerary in Grenada

Day 1

 

Arrive in St George’s

Welcome to Grenada! As soon as you step foot on Grenada’s soil, you’ll get a whiff of nutmeg, proving the island’s legendary spice island title is well-deserved. Grand Anse is where a large number of the island’s most opulent resorts are concentrated, so be sure to check it out on your short ride from the airport to your hotel or other accommodation before making the quick trip to St. George’s. Slow down on day one if you want to experience the island like the locals do. Drop your luggage off at your accomodation and then head to peaceful Mourne Rouge Bay to relax after the long trip to reach Grenada. Alternatively, if you wish to relax on a sun lounger on Grand Anse Beach and enjoy a meal, many resorts feature excellent restaurants with a wide selection of foods.

Sit back and listen to the birds sing as you watch the sun slowly fall below the horizon against a backdrop of orange clouds. These vistas should convince you that you have indeed arrived at the heaven on Earth if your first impressions did not.

  • Backpacker: 
  • Budget: 
  • Mid-range
  • Luxury

When it becomes dark, a foreign city may be twice as dangerous - especially if you don't understand the language and are unfamiliar with the area. There is little reason to be alarmed about walking alone in the city since there low crime rate in St George's and some of the only crimes are pickpockets. You can walk safely at day, but be wary while walking at night and be alert in crowded areas or unlit alleys or streets. You can always take taxis, if you don't feel comfortable, Be wary of petty crime by taking precautions mentioned in the safety section above.

From the Airport to St George's Center

 

Day 2

 

Chilling at Grand Anse

After a good sleep, wake up early to watch the sun rise, have a hearty breakfast and head to Grand Anse Beach, whether you’re already there, if it’s nearby, or if it isn’t, this is your first stop today. This one mile of pure white sand stretching out on the coast of Grand Anse, you will be greeted by pristine waters dazzling with unreal shades of blue. You will find stands selling chilled drinks and simple munchies to take while are being sun-kissed. 

As night falls, the traditional Caribbean sounds of dancehall, reggae, and calypso emerge from lively venues and bars, and the crowd becomes amped up like Ester’s Bar, a local hotspot. When the night falls, change up the location and head to Umbrella’s Beach Bar, or any other one you like. Umbrella’s Beach Bar is busy all day, but really lights up the ramps at night. There are several benches for people to sit together on the roof and on the balcony out front, where they may enjoy the sunset.

Day 3

 

Exploring St George’s

St. George’s, Grenada’s capital, is a veritable kaleidoscope of color because of the fishermen’s cottages that cling to the mountainside and are painted in every imaginable shade. The narrow streets of this bustling tiny city are home to many hidden treasures, including but not limited to art galleries presenting local works.

Carenage Harbor is the heart of St. George’s, so after a hearty breakfast, head that way. Tourists usually find fishing boats bobbing at the pier, full of the day’s catch. St. George’s is surrounded by imposing forts on all sides, a somber reminder of the city’s glorious past. Fort George is the nearest, and it features massive iron cannons along its ocean-facing walls. You may get a great view of the capital from Fort Frederick, which is just outside the city. The fort itself transports visitors to an era when Britain and France fought each other.

Now it’s time for a tried and true establishment. House of Chocolate caters to those with a sweet tooth by offering treats made from cocoa beans grown on the site. You may take some bars with you on the move, or you can sit in the cute café and enjoy some freshly baked cakes and hot chocolate with melty marshmallows. If chocolate isn’t your thing, feel free to visit any of the other attractions in St. George’s.

Day 4

 

A Hiking Day

Experiencing the island’s interior on day four of your journey to Grenada is a must if you want your vacation to feel authentic. Enchanting emerald green hills give spectacular perspectives in the island’s lush center, while clouds cling to the summit as you climb higher. With so many tasty fruits lying around, tropical woods are a haven for many sorts of creatures, some of which you might be able to observe while you stroll through them. You’ll begin to comprehend the nearly supernatural connection that native Grenadian people have to their country as you ascend to its pinnacle. Visit the little village of Gouyave and take in the increasingly noticeable nutty scent. Learn about the island’s signature export—nutmeg—as you stroll down the aromatic path that leads to the Nutmeg Processing Plant. The next stop is the huge spice plantation of Belmont Estate, which has a history that spans generations. Take in the fresh mountain air as you stroll through the groomed gardens, which are home to blooming cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and nutmeg, among other spices.

Visitors who venture away from the beaches are drawn by the stunning waterfalls that dot this wild landscape. Concord Falls, with its stunning double-drop waterfalls and convenient location just off the main road, is among the most visited. If you want to get away from the throng, there’s a small route that leads to the Upper Falls. Seven Sisters Falls, also known as St. Margaret’s Falls, is a set of waterfalls that seems like it was plucked right out of a fantasy novel or film and is sure to entice any hiker with a penchant for danger.

Day 5

 

Lay Back

After yesterday’s strenuous hike over the mountains, today is the day to relax. Unwind in the lowlands after breakfast and take in the sights and sounds of the water while you sip a cold beverage and take in the sea breeze. If you haven’t been there previously, Morne Rouge Beach is an incredible oasis in the middle of nothing. This tranquil hangout is popular with a relaxed clientele that’s ideal for daytime activities. Once you’ve slept enough, if you still feel like going to the beach, Magazine Beach is conveniently located adjacent to the airport. It’s well worth your time to see this fantastic beach, which features stunning pearly white sand and azure shimmering sea.

Relax with some cold ones at the end of a long day, eat, and spend the night wherever you choose; then, return to your accommodation to pack for the next day’s adventure.

Day 6

 

Head to Carriacou

Get on a ferry in the morning after breakfast and sail the two hours to Carriacou, the doorway to paradise. Only a select handful get to experience the pleasure of this tropical gem because of its lack of glitz and affordable lodgings. Sounds of people walking on the beach and the splashing of blue water are all that can be heard. The name “Paradise Beach” was chosen because it exemplifies the location, atmosphere, and activities offered at this exceptional beach.

You’ve come today to enjoy the peace and quiet that comes from watching waves smash onto the shore and fade away into the soft white sand. There are a pair of dive bars serving beverages, with Hardwood Bar being the best option for catching a water taxi. The other is the colorful and occasionally rowdy neighborhood of Off D Hook. A visit to little Sandy Island is like being abandoned on a deserted island in the midst of the ocean, high above the sparkling waves. You can reach this tiny speck of white sand in about fifteen minutes by boat from the mainland. The aforementioned watering establishments in Hillsborough’s downtown core are within easy walking distance of water taxis, and the drivers there will be happy to pick you up. You can then either take a ferry back to the main island, or stay the night in one of the modest lodges.

Day 7

 

Last Hours…

Go to Kayak Kafe on Carriacou for a revitalizing smoothie and breakfast or lunch, depending on your wake-up time and personal taste. After that, visit Anse La Roche; however, don’t forget to take some snacks with you, since you’ll be hungry again before lunchtime. This mainly unexplored virgin bay, normally desolate and fully unspoilt, may be found by tramping through the forest in the extreme north of Carriacou. Take in the ocean views and revel in the thrill of having discovered your own own tropical paradise. An additional slice of paradise. Visit Slipway, a charming restaurant with delicious fish and burgers, helpful staff, and excellent service, on your last night of vacation. Depending on the time of your trip, you may not have time to stop at any of these places on the way to Grenada. Cheers  to the moments you’ve created in Grenada.

The Most Popular Food in Grenada

The cuisine of Grenada reflects the many cultures that have left their mark on the island, including those of France, Britain, Africa, Portugal, and India. Grenadians may thank India for introducing them the roti, a flour-and-water flatbread that resembles a tortilla. The island is home to a wide variety of delicious spices that are used in many local recipes. In addition, you may get seasonal produce. When you get a chance, sample a wide variety of tropical fruits. Spicy sweets and curries are also frequent.

Oil Down

This meal is considered to be Grenada’s national food. Breadfruit, coconut milk, turmeric, dumplings, salted pork, and callaloo are the ingredients that go into its preparation (typically saltfish, smoked herring, or salt beef). The ingredients are combined before being cooked in a huge pot known as a karhee, which is also referred to as a curry pot.

Pelau

You may experiment with this meal because there are so many ways to prepare it. Grenadians prepare pelau meals using rice as the foundation, and then add meat or fish, beans, sweet peppers, carrots, celery, coconut milk, and brown sugar. The chicken variety has a somewhat sweet flavor due to the sugar coating on the flesh. The dish’s special flavor comes from being simmered in coconut milk, which also ensures that you’ll want to eat it more than once.

Curried Goat

If you’re ever on the islands, you must try the goat curry. Goat meat in Grenada is typically seasoned with a mix of sugar, fresh local herbs and spices. Spices and seasonings including curry powder, curry, onion, and garlic are added. Depending on the restaurant, this meal may or may not be spicy, however many may serve lime pickles as a way to tone down the heat. If you want something milder, you should probably ask the restaurant about it before you order. The traditional accompaniments for “curry goat,” as the locals call it, are rice and peas, fried plantain, or baked yams.

Grenadian Spice Cake

This sweet treat is a local favorite in Grenada. In addition to being sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar and served with fruits of the season, it is flavored with the spices that are native to the island.

Roti

When done correctly, roti can be simply mouthwatering from its richness. A roti is simply a shell comprised of flour, baking powder, salt, water, oil, and shortening that is loaded with curry-flavored meat, fish, or vegetables that have been cooked with potatoes. The roti shell also contains potatoes (for cooking). Although it has the appearance of a wrap, the roti shell has its own distinct flavor that works wonderfully with the curry that is on the inside. Due to the fact that a roti may be rather full, the ideal time to have one is typically around the lunch hour.

What's the Travel Budget for Grenada

Final Thoughts on Grenada

Grenada is appealing for many reasons including its rich history and culture, which can be seen in its traditional buildings and rural landscapes, its unusual and beautiful landmarks, many of which are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, its unbelievable warmth despite the freezing weather, its exciting events and festivities, and its vivid picture-perfect surroundings of highlands and pristine waters, ideal for sunbathing and watching beautiful sunsets. Evidence suggests that Grenada’s history extends back much further than 2,000 BC when it was first documented. A piece of a fallen Caribbean civilization and a meeting point for a number of different cultures; one of the top travel destinations. With its stunning scenery, wide variety of wildlife, and intriguing historical sites, Grenada is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination, especially for its tropical activities that include kicking back at the pristine beaches or witnessing the beautiful sunsets of the Caribbean. Are you planning on going on a trip to Grenada?

Have you ever been to Grenada? Post your thoughts, questions, and concerns down below.

Cruisit Team

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