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 Grenada on the mainland, is big sister to two smaller islands -Carriacou and Petit Martinique located to the north of her, whilst the capital St. George, is located to the southwest of the island.
This mountainous island is twelve miles wide and twenty-one miles long with a population of over 102, 632, primarily of African, East Indian and European descent. Known for its warm friendly people and laid back atmosphere, the island is divided into six parishes: St. Andrew, St. David, St. George, St. John, St. Mark and St. Patrick.
Appropriately referred to as the Isle of Spice being the largest exporter of nutmegs after Indonesia, Grenada produces cloves, ginger, cinnamon, mace, cocoa and bananas.
History
The island being volcanic also boast a wealth of flora and fauna that sprouts throughout the year coupled with a history that dates back to the days of the Ciboneys - long before it was discovered by Spain's Christopher Columbus in 1498. After Columbus, came the French in 1650, followed by the British in 1783. Grenada became what is referred to as a crown colony in 1877, an associated state within the British Commonwealth in 1967 before acquiring its independence in 1974. As a result you will find that thought the official language is English, the islands French ancestry is evident in the French names of places and its architecture which sometimes are a mixture of French and Georgian.
 Climate
The climate range from temperatures of 75F/24C to 87F/30C with the constant sweep of the trade winds. Grenada, like much of the other Caribbean islands experiences a wet and dry season that spans June to December and January to May respectively.
Activities
There is little room for boredom in Grenada as there is always some place to go or discover. For the adventurous hiking to Mt St. Catherine, the highest mountain on the island - 2,756 feet, or trekking through Grand Etang National Forest, while enjoying the sometimes ominous placid Grand Etang Lake will serve as the highlight of your stay.
You can also go snorkeling amongst the islands beautiful coral reefs and dive sites like the Bianca C, a French cruise liner that in 1961 caught fire and later sunk. All aboard were rescued and provided with accommodations in private homes, as there were no guesthouses or hotels on the island at that time.
For the laid back type, Grenada also offers long stretches of white sandy beaches, scenic waterfalls and numerous historical sites that speaks of the islands colourful past or, you can simply enjoy a glass of rum punch while you look out that the prettiest harbour in the Caribbean.
Airports
There are two airports on the island, but only one is operational. Point Salines International Airport is located on the southwestern tip of the island in St.George. Pearls Airport, operational until after the American intervention in 1983 in the parish of St. Andrew, is now home to many Amerindian artifacts and other archaeological interests. The airport strip now serves as an arena for the occasional car racing and other cultural events.
Currency
Grenada uses Eastern Caribbean Dollars (EC) but US Dollars are also accepted at a rate of US$1 to EC$2.67. Canadian Dollars, Travelers Cheques, MaterCards and Credit Cards by most businesses.
Taxes
Taxes and service charge includes Departure Tax - EC $25/5 - 12 years and EC $50/13 and over, while younger children and babies are exempted. At hotels and restaurants there is an 8% Government Tax and an additional 10% service charge. Tips are at the discretion of individuals.
Business Hours
Business hours are primarily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Banks: Monday to Thursday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Fridays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Shops: Monday to Friday - 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Government Offices: Monday to Friday - 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Government Cashiers 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Post Office
The Grenada Postal Corporation, located in St. George, with sub offices throughout the length and breath of the island is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3: 30 p.m.
Hospitals
There are two hospitals in Grenada - the General Hospital in the parish of St. George and Princess Alice in St. Andrew. Private medical facilities are also available.
Carriacou has its own hospital, Princess Royal.
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