Grenada Travel Guide - 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.