GRENADA
Grenada
Beneath cloudless tropical skies, where trade winds lazily blow across the warm tides of the Caribbean Sea, lies Grenada, a triisland state comprising three unique destinations
WRITER: LILY SAWYER | PROJECT MANAGER: ALFIE WILSON
Atri-island state of emerald hills, golden shores, and vibrant festivals, Grenada offers an intoxicating blend of natural beauty and cultural soul.
Forming the southern end of the Windward Islands, Grenada has been occupied by both the French and British and, as such, still retains traces of European influence. The capital, St. George’s, is located on the southwest coast of Grenada and the main commercial centre.
Blessed with rich vegetation and lush greenery, Grenada is the largest of three islands – along with Carriacou and Petite Martinique – and known as the “Spice of the Caribbean”, owing to its significant production and export of various spices. The scenery is complete with mountainous terrain and scenic waterfalls that facilitate impressive hiking trails.
You can also encounter sulphur springs and crater lakes, alongside wonderful forts and historic points of interest that rival the best of the Caribbean.
Carriacou is a lot smaller than Grenada – a place where
you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The island is known as the cradle of Grenadian culture because its people still maintain rich cultural traditions that date back centuries, such as the Carriacou Maroon and Stringband Music Festival.
Petite Martinique, meanwhile, is a very small, familyoriented island where you can simply go to relax and unwind – to disconnect in order to reconnect.
Carriacou and Petite Martinique also form part of the Grenadine chain, which is where you can find some of the most spectacular sailing waters in the West Indies. As such, they have both emerged as hotspots in the area’s growing yachting scene.
These two islands are also thought to be the more authentic and traditional of the three and therefore much closer to their African roots in everything from food to music.
So, whether you’re looking to step back in time, embark on a scenic hiking adventure, or simply relax and unwind, Grenada is the place for you.
Grenada Tourism Authority
Randall Dolland, Chairman of the Grenada Tourism Authority, discusses the growth and evolution of the country’s tourism offering in recent years and how the organisation is leveraging resilience programmes, empowering small businesses, and curating cultural events to celebrate Grenada and truly integrate tourism within the everyday lives of Grenadians
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, how does Grenada present different experiences for travellers to explore?
Randall Dolland, Chairman (RD): Grenada is made up of three distinct destinations – Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique – each with something very different and unique to offer.
Grenada presents some of the best diving spots available – it is known as the shipwreck capital of the Caribbean, after all.
Here, you can explore its beautiful coastlines with fantastic beaches that are the best anywhere in the world. As Grenada is the main island of the three, of course it also has top-tier accommodation in terms of luxury properties, as well as some great boutique hotels.
Then there is Carriacou which, because it is such a small island, sees most of its people making a living by the sea, so it is home to a lot of native fisher folk.
You also have places like Sandy Island to explore – an extraordinarily beautiful islet – and some other small islands around the vicinity. For example, Saline Island, where you can go swimming with turtles; White Island, which offers beautiful clear waters and picturesque sunsets; and Paradise Beach, which is also gorgeous.
Petite Martinique, meanwhile, is a tiny island that you can walk around in about an hour and a half, offering a tranquil and traditional Caribbean experience with a focus on community and culture.
Between them, all three islands enable us to offer a great complement of services and experiences and, as such, are well-positioned to remain a yachting and culinary capital for years to come.
Eventually, we’re going to be launching new festivals that are seafood-focused, doubling down on how we utilise all of our natural resources.
OT: What important or powerful messages are represented by your underwater sculpture parks?
RD: Off the coast of both Grenada and Carriacou, we have underwater sculpture parks. The ones in Grenada speak a lot to our culture, such as Vicissitudes or ‘The Ring of Children’ by British sculptor Jason deCaires
“TOURISM WILL ALWAYS CONTINUE TO EVOLVE IN GRENADA, AS WILL ITS PEOPLE. WHILST SAND AND SEA ARE GREAT, WE HAVE SO MUCH MORE TO OFFER – THE INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGE OF FOOD, HEALTH AND WELLNESS, YACHTING, AND DIVING”
– RANDALL DOLLAND, CHAIRMAN, GRENADA TOURISM AUTHORITY
Taylor, which highlights the unity and togetherness of the Grenadian children. His new installation, The Coral Carnival, meanwhile, celebrates the island’s annual Spicemas carnival. Over in Carriacou, we had meaningful new sculptures installed in October last year. In particular, the storyline behind ‘A World Adrift’ speaks to the resilience of the people who make their living by the sea. It sets out how our climate is changing and that these individuals will be most
affected – a very powerful message.
Scans of real children from Carriacou and Petite Martinique inspired the sculptures, which were designed to be placed in origamistyle boats underwater to reflect the fragility of our environment. By using sculptures of local children, we are compelled to look to the future because it’s the next generation’s lives and livelihoods that will be most impacted by the decisions we make today.
Welcome to Villa Kaya, a collection of curated, private suites and villas on the water’s edge of Grenada’s pictureperfect Morne Rouge Bay. Contemporary, Caribbean design, coupled with local materials & craftsmanship, topped off with a deep commitment to sustaining Grenada’s environment, culture, and people.
Your portal to culture, and lifestyle,
Kaya [ˈkīə] n. Zulu (southern Africa) meaning peaceful, restful place or home. Arawak (indigenous Caribbean people) for small island. Rastafarian (Caribbean religion), state of well-being/peace.
Villa Kaya, was created as a portal to the experiences that make Grenada and the Caribbean so special, while helping to sustain our culture, environment, and resources for future generations. Designed to blend the lines between a private villa and hotel, the individual suites & villas are fully independent, with private entrances and gardens, fully equipped kitchens, decadent bedding, and modern finishes and furnishings.
The private suites & villas are intertwined with a range of additional luxuries and fully serviced with a mixture of professionalism and Caribbean charm.
Villa Kaya is the ideal setting for a honeymoon, or a destination wedding; a weekend for two, or a family reunion
authentic Caribbean food, lifestyle, at their best.
Boutique
Suites and villas
Villa Kaya blurs the line between land and sea, indoor and outdoor, beauty and comfort. All suites and villas are designed to frame the epic sea-views, with floor-to-ceiling glass providing clean, natural light and infinity views. Private entrances and lush gardens envelop guests in the tropical surroundings. Simple, stylish, and intensely comfortable furnishings allow for days of deep relaxation and rejuvenation.
Sea View Suites
Villa Kaya offers a selection of three distinct Seaview suites, each with a subtly different floor plan and finishes. These suites enjoy picturesque ocean views, cooling breeze, private gardens, and modern kitchens. Recline, relax, bathe in the light, and soak in the view.
Coral Reef Suite
Queen Bed | Two Adults
Wake up to beach-views from bed. Bask in the idyllic southern light as it pours in the oversized slider. Prepare the perfect dinner for two in a modern kitchen and enjoy a sundowner in your private sea-view-terrace.
Sleeps: Two Adults
Bed: Queen Bed
Bathroom: Rain-shower w/ hand wand
Size: 432 ft2 / 40 m2
Kitchen: Yes, Smeg cooktop, undercounter refrigerator/ freezer, microwave, coffee & tea station, cutlery and dishware
Beach Glass Suite
King Bed | Two Adults
Tucked away at the entrance is a private entryway to your own courtyard garden and suite. Idyllic views of the entire BBC Beach and Morne Rouge Bay. Enjoy the convenience of a modern kitchen that we’ll be happy to stock with delicious local ingredients.
Driftwood Suite
King Bed & Sofa Bed | Two Adults and One Child
Experience exclusive entry to the property through your own beautifully landscaped garden. Take in the endless views to the south, while soft southern light fills the suite. Slightly larger floor plan accommodates an additional guest. Pet friendly!
The Clubhouse
Rain or shine, enjoy a drink at the self-service bar, watch a movie on the big screen, or play some dominoes with friends.
Overwater Deck
There is no better setting to enjoy your morning coffee, a midday swim, or an afternoon sundowner. In the calm of the morning or evening you can often watch turtles bobbing up and down enjoying a meal of seagrass.
Seaside Infinity Pool
An infinity pool on the water’s edge of Morne Rouge Bay. Relax in the in-water sun loungers, enjoy a good book, and soak up the sun (or shade).
The Kitchen
Contemporary, Caribbean, and cool best describes The Kitchen. Enjoy continental breakfast served daily from 8:30am - 10:00am. For a truly memorable experience, book a special cocktail or dinner for up to 12 people.
Alfresco Dining
Outdoor dining is at the heart of Caribbean living. Bespoke dinners for up to 12, fresh grilled to perfection. Gather around the fire for rum and chocolate. Or enjoy ice-cold drinks and a game of dominoes!
Property Highlights
Additional Amenities and Services
• Property-wide Fiber-Optic Wi-Fi (complementary)
• Housekeeping Service *Not available weekends nor public holidays.
• Laundry Service (Drop off & Pick-up) *Available at an additional expense.
Location Highlights
• Adjacent to BBC Beach, Grenada’s most beautiful and charming beach
• A short walk to the world famous Grand Anse Beach
• Only a few minutes’ drive from Grenada’s international airport
• Just outside of the Quarantine Point Park, one of the island’s most scenic hangouts.
• Great restaurants and beach bars to choose from, all within a few minutes’ drive.
Sustainability
Join us in our commitment to reduce our human footprint, sustain our culture for future generations.
Building Technologies:
• 100% of electricity requirements generated by onsite, grid-tied, photovoltaic system
• Solar heated hot water system (with electrical back-up, just in case)
• Planted green roofs for reduced cooling
requirements and increased biodiversity
• Passive solar design for reduced cooling requirements
• Rainwater harvesting for irrigation
• State of the art water purification system provides purified drinking water to all suites (removing the need for bottled water)
• Super energy efficient air-conditioners and LED lights
Operations:
• Working with and sourcing directly from local farmers and fisherfolk
• Hiring locally and while paying a living wage
• Recycling, when possible. Grenada has no recycling program, and all materials must be shipped off-island, so our efforts at reduction have far greater impact
• Constantly striving to reduce our environmental impact, support our local culture, and create a more equitable society
Waterfront Villas
Villa Kaya offers two premier seaside-villas situated on the water’s edge. While each building is unique, they share some stunning characteristics, such as waterfront locations, infinity views, privacy, covered verandahs, planted roofs, luxurious bathrooms, detailed architectural finishes, and refined furnishings.
The Boathouse Villa King Bed | Two Adults
Breath in the sea in this deeply comfortable villa loaded with extras. Large waterside veranda with oversized outdoor seating, private garden with gas-grill, open-air rain-shower & freestanding tub, and a full kitchen with breakfast bar. You will not want to leave.
Sleeps: Two Adults
Bed: King Bed
Bathroom: Open-air rain-shower & freestanding stainless steel tub (no indoor shower nor bath)
Size: 710 ft2 / 66 m2
Self-Contained: Full Kitchen & Outdoor BBQ Grill
Seashell Villa King Bed | Two Adults
Experience total relaxation in this highly private, waterfront villa. The oversized verandah almost touches the water’s edge. Plenty of space for yoga, or to just lounge around. Enjoy super comfy outdoor furniture, double-headed shower for two, netted deck and swing!
Sleeps: Two Adults
Bed: King Bed
Bathroom: Double-headed rain shower for two w/ hand wands
Size: 960 ft2 / 90 m2
Self-Contained: Alfresco Kitchen & Dining
Suite and Villa Amenities
1. Continental Breakfast Included 2. Fully Equipped Kitchens (without ovens)
3. Organic 100% Cotton Linens 4. Incredibly Comfy Beds
5. Complementary Wi-Fi (Property-wide) 6. Air Conditioning 7. Backout + Sheer Drapes 8. Bespoke Caribbean Interior Designs 9. Bathrobes 10. Keycard System (for property-wide access)
CONTACT
1 473 407 5292
1 473 405 1166
hello@villakaya.gd villakaya.gd
Room Phones 12. Room Safes 13. USB Charging Ports at all nightstands 14. Toiletries 15. Hairdryer
The irony of it is that the day the sculptures were due to arrive, Carriacou was hit by Hurricane Beryl which completely flattened and devastated the island.
We decided we had to continue with the project because the message we were trying to send became much more than just rhetoric about climate change, but about the reality we were faced with.
For the first time in history, we had encountered a hurricane so powerful that some of the same children represented in the sculptures were rendered homeless.
In short, Carriacou’s climate park sculptures are not just a tourist
attraction about climate change –they reflect the reality of the future we are faced with.
OT: How have you seen Grenada’s tourism offering evolve over the past decade?
RD: Grenada’s tourism offering has evolved in the sense that we’ve started focusing on our niches. As a small, boutique destination, we’re not hyper-focused on mass-market tourism products but on what we do well.
That message resonates with our current focus on the culinary scene –being a spice isle, of course. We are also focused on curating
boutique and personalised experiences in the yachting, sustainability, voluntourism, and diving sectors.
Elsewhere, owing to the scenic nature of the islands, great food, and beautiful surroundings, we also have an emerging romance component. As such, we recently installed an underwater chapel at our sculpture park where, just last year, we hosted a wedding.
So, we’re always continuing to innovate and push our product forwards in that sense, whilst continuing to do what we do well.
As a destination, we’re more off-thebeaten-path than others and, for that
reason, attract a more experienced, sophisticated, conscientious type of traveller that’s looking for a boutique experience to return home from with bragging rights.
OT: How do campaigns such as Escape to Grenada and Free to Wander promote Grenada as a destination of choice by emphasising everything on offer in the tri-island state?
RD: Our campaigns are dynamic and designed for specific time periods. For example, right now, you’re able to save significant funds if travelling from Canada as we’ve introduced more Air Canada services – twice weekly, where previously we only had one.
This is because we’ve seen a shift in demand for more Caribbean destinations than the usual North American markets, which we’re taking advantage of. We’re also providing more passenger incentives to ensure we fill both flights.
We also follow a similar model with Virgin Atlantic and British Airways flights from the UK, where vacationers can take advantage of offers.
In doing this, we continue to
stimulate drive and demand in our summertime – which is when international travellers would typically begin heading elsewhere. This is also why shoring up culinary attractions will be important as we seek to sustain visitor numbers throughout the year.
Another great thing about Grenada is that you always feel like you’ve got the island to yourself. You’re not going to be fighting for a space on a beach
that’s overrun with visitors; the island is ‘Free to Wander’ – the name of our latest campaign.
The island is a hidden paradise to the extent that if you want a great Instagram shot, there’s going to be nobody else around you to obstruct it! You’ll be completely unobstructed, free to enjoy nature, and not feel like you’re in a tourist trap or bubble.
Ultimately, Grenada can be considered exclusive, and that’s why it’s a premium, first-rate destination.
OT: What do your programmes such as 473 Connect, Simple Stays, and voluntourism entail?
RD: 473 Connect is enabled by the advantage of our very large diaspora. It’s an incentive scheme that offers local people a chance to be patriotic and volunteer on the island, guiding groups and providing tours of the island – a channel for their passion.
Simple Stays, meanwhile, focuses on promoting smaller boutique properties, collaborating with them to help have a larger voice in the market.
It’s about empowering small businesses and giving them more visibility as they go head-to-head with the other larger resorts with virtual marketing. In doing so, we’re looking to ensure everybody gets an equal piece of the pie, so to speak, in terms of visibility.
The Simple Stays product is a fantastic complement to the
destination because, again, its exclusivity speaks to the type of profile that many of our visitors are looking for.
When it comes to voluntourism, we are looking to be an environmentally conscious, sustainability driven destination.
The voluntourism product is where you can come to Grenada and sign up to plant new spices or something more community-focused –essentially giving back to your stay on the island and the country as well.
I think this speaks to the strength of our destination because it’s not one of those experiences where you go all inclusive, remain behind the hotel walls, and don’t leave until it’s time to go to the airport – or embark on an overly curated tour.
It’s about experiencing local communities, lending a hand, and immersing yourself within our culture.
OT: Can you tell us about any government-initiated sustainability and resilience programmes and how they’re contributing to sustainable tourism in Grenada?
RD: The government is looking at improving infrastructure and ensuring we have adequate amounts of sustainable water supply.
We also have electric vehicle (EV) concessions because we’re driving a push towards sustainability and getting off traditional fossil fuels and moving towards encouraging more electric buses for visitors, for example.
We are also looking at improving our power plants so that energy is not a big drag on our systems and awarding carbon credits for solar projects.
In addition, the government is running a pilot project on sustainable building methods and practices that are more resilient to storms and our ever-changing climate. We will then try to scale, model, and deliver that across the country.
Why am I speaking about infrastructural projects that seem to be outside of the tourism remit? Because it goes back to the fact that if we take care of our country and people, then we’re taking care of our visitors.
The ‘resort’ is the destination – the whole thing is immersive. To be part of
tourism in Grenada is not just about going to the hotel or the beach – it’s about being part of our culture and people; we welcome you in as one.
So, when you’re travelling on our electric buses, drinking the cleanest, healthiest water, or utilising clean energy from our sustainable power plants, it all feeds back into tourism.
Even now, we’re looking at other sustainable products, such as how we’re able to fish more efficiently and replenish the ocean. For example, the Ministry of the Blue Economy and Marine Affairs focuses on reef development, sustainable habitat improvements, and protection for marine life.
We understand that as a small island and developing state, we must sustain all these things.
As such, taking care of our people is essentially taking care of our visitors – once we start taking care of our own, we can take care of everyone else. We’re trying to merge the distinction between tourist and visitor – we treat everyone as guests. Essentially, when you come into Grenada, it again goes back to the immersive experience of being on the island.
We’re also thinking about agriculture – growing seeds and getting more livestock in. We work to ensure we have enough volume to
Photography: True Blue Bay Boutique Resort
sustainably develop our food sources because food security is huge, especially in a world with emerging export and import tariffs. As the world becomes more unreliable, we now must ensure we are taking care of ourselves.
OT: Grenada was honoured as Yachting Destination of the Year 2023 by Caribbean Journal during the Caribbean Travel Awards. What do accolades such as this mean to the organisation?
RD: We’ve won a tonne of awards and accolades from multiple sources, but our focus remains on doing what we do and doing it well – the idea is that
accolades will come naturally as a result of our hard work and focus.
With yachting, we’re changing our legislation to ensure that it is as up-todate, environmentally-conscious, and sustainability-focused as possible – we want to make sure that we have best benchmark processes in place.
We’re also looking into wellness and delivering new niches in medical tourism. As such, we have a new hospital opening in partnership with Mount Sinai, a big US-based medical system, which means we’re going to open the door to visitors who are looking to travel to for medical purposes and can then heal and recuperate in Grenada.
All of the above is about focusing on doing what we do well and ensuring we lead the charge in becoming the gold standard for any sort of tourism product in the Southern Caribbean.
OT: Finally, are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Grenada?
RD: Absolutely! We’re optimistic for the future of tourism because we’re moving away from typical models, differentiating ourselves as a destination that truly integrates tourism.
Indeed, in Grenada, tourism is part of our everyday – it’s an industry that is so intricately interlocked within
everything else. You don’t have to go ‘into’ tourism to participate.
In other words, you don’t have to open a restaurant or work at a hotel, airport, or port to be participating in tourism as we’re actively integrating it into our everyday lives.
That’s the sort of tourism we’re promoting on the island. As such, we’re about to launch a new campaign that encourages going into schools and communities, further establishing integration.
Tourism in Grenada is about immersive experiences – sampling our national dish, oil down, or walking in the spice fields amongst the cocoa and nutmeg groves – that is tourism.
Maybe you’re drinking our herbal teas whilst sitting beside a waterfall, enjoying the beach and some rum with local people, listening to music, participating in our largest cultural festival, Spicemas, or one of the many other festivals we have on the island –our way of life is the tourism product.
When you have that ease of integration, you have more of a collective buy-in from everybody –from stakeholders to tourists because we are the tourism product, with the island being only the destination. That is what visitors are looking for and what the holistic buy-in is.
Tourism will always continue to evolve in Grenada, as will its people.
Whilst sand and sea are great, we have so much more to offer – the international language of food, health and wellness, yachting, and diving.
Everything we do is part and parcel of integration – it’s all about how we continue as a people to develop alongside tourism.
Tel: 1 (473) 440-2001
info@puregrenada.com www. puregrenada.com
Your Gateway to Pure Grenada Begins with Us
At the Grenada Airports Authority (GAA), we don’t just connect you to destinations, we create memorable journeys.
As the proud operator of the Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA) and Lauriston Airport, the Grenada Airports Authority is committed to delivering world-class airport experiences grounded in Caribbean warmth and operational excellence.
Whether you’re flying for business, leisure, or returning home, GAA ensures smooth, secure, and customer-focused services that reflect the heart and soul of Grenada. Our airport is more than a travel hub—it’s a vibrant space for culture, commerce, and connection.
RECOMMENDS
Eat:
FOR SAND AND SUNSETS...
Beachside Bistrot Grenada is a charming, upscale restaurant located on the pristine sands of Grand Anse Beach to the northwest of the island.
Specialising in seafood and Mediterranean dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients, the bistro offers a relaxed and inviting ambiance, complete with views of the glistening ocean over which the sun sets each evening.
Guests can dine al fresco beneath swaying palm trees and feel the gentle sea breeze, enjoying the restaurant’s daily specials featuring seasonal catches such as fresh fish and local lobster.
FOR AUTHENTIC CUISINE...
For an authentic and local dining experience in Carriacou, Bogles Round House Restaurant and Cottages is known for its unique architecture and highly-regarded cuisine.
Offering both Caribbean and international dishes, chef Roxanne Russell is renowned for her seafood dishes and desserts – including an addictive cheesecake and homemade ice cream.
The menu is typically small, with dishes freshly prepared daily based on the availability of ingredients.
Guests can dine inside the historical roundhouse itself or at tables in the well-kept gardens outside, which offer picturesque views over the bay.
Do:
FOR A DIVING EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER…
The highest-rated dive shop on the island, Dive Grenada offers a premium, top-quality diving experience, catering for everyone from complete beginners to those who have already spent ample time underwater.
Complemented by its small class sizes, state-of-the-art rental equipment, and expert instructors, those seeking both convenience and luxury need look no further.
Dive Grenada’s 2:6 divemaster-to-diver ratio, resulting in intimate group settings, is a key differentiator, whilst its ‘show up and breathe’ approach – through which the company takes full responsibility for gear handling, loading, washing, and storage – creates a hassle-free experience.
For true luxury, expert guidance, and a low-risk, highreward diving experience, choose Dive Grenada today.
Sleep:
FOR BOUTIQUE OCEAN VIEWS...
Offering boutique accommodation against the breathtakingly beautiful backdrop of Morne Rouge Beach, Villa Kaya is a portal to authentic Grenadian culture, food, and lifestyle.
Blending private seclusion with friendly service and first-class amenities, each independent villa or suite is complete with a private entrance and garden, fully-equipped kitchen, and modern finishes and furnishings.
Each accommodation option has its own unique characteristics, such as the Coral Reef Seaview Suite’s stunning panoramic views, the Seashell Villa’s seaside swing and netted deck, and the Boathouse Villa’s waterside veranda.
Guests will be enchanted by the intimate atmosphere, friendly and hospitable round-the-clock service, and immaculate facilities.
Each morning, a Caribbean-style breakfast is freshly prepared on-site, with guests choosing to eat in the air-conditioned breakfast room or outside under a large, covered dining terrace overlooking Morne Rouge Beach.
An all-round luxurious experience, Villa Kaya also features a clubhouse with a self-service bar, picturesque infinity pool, and pier with direct beach access.
For those seeking adventure and discovery, snorkelling and paddle boarding are available nearby, with attentive staff on hand to assist with bookings.
Should guests wish to venture further than Morne Rouge Beach, the renowned Grand Anse Beach – a two-mile stretch of white sand featuring calm-turquoise waters – is just a short 15-minute stroll away, the route passing by restaurants and seaside amenities.
Quarantine Point – a historical peninsula with a rich past – is also nearby and, at dusk, bears witness to arguably the most stunning sunset views on the island.
So, for those seeking high-quality boutique accommodation complete with attentive, personalised service in a spectacular setting, look no further than Villa Kaya.
Camerhogneprestigioustours@gmail.com
IN FOCUS
Spicemas
A VIBRANT CELEBRATION of African, European, and Caribbean traditions, Spicemas is held annually on the island of Grenada in early August.
Drawing its name from Grenada’s reputation as the spice isle – renowned for its production of nutmeg, cocoa, and cinnamon, amongst others – the moniker directly connects the carnival to the island’s rich spice heritage.
More than just a festival, Spicemas is a living tapestry of music, dance, and song that tells the story of the island’s history through cultural performances and artistic displays.
Celebrations begin weeks in advance of the festival itself with calypso and soca competitions, featuring lyrical wit and infectious rhythms that capture the pulse of audiences.
The celebrations continue with J’ouvert, an electrifying pre-dawn ritual where revellers – covered in oil, charcoal, or paint – take to the streets to the sound of soca and steel pan music and the hypnotic beats of drums and conch shells against the chants of the Jab Jab masqueraders
– an ancestral portrayal of resistance and liberation.
The following days bring the spectacle of Pretty Mas, also known as Fancy Mas, with costumed bands parading in dazzling plumes, sequins, and glitter beneath the tropical sun.
Music is the beating heart of Spicemas, from the pulsating bass of modern soca to the poetic storytelling of traditional calypso.
Yet, the music at Spicemas is also a deeply communal experience through which friends, families, and strangers
can unite in spirited revelry, blurring the lines between performer and spectator.
For visitors, Spicemas offers not only a feast for the senses, but also an opportunity to be immersed within the joy, pride, and resilience of Grenadian identity.
To witness Spicemas is to see Grenada at its most alive – a kaleidoscope of colour, sound, and emotion, steeped in heritage yet continually evolving. It is an opportunity to dance, celebrate, and belong – if only for a fleeting, unforgettable moment.
Fort George
Perched above St. George’s Harbour in Grenada, Fort George stands as a silent sentinel over Grenada’s colonial past. Built by the French in the early 18th century, its weathered stone walls and narrow battlements offer commanding views of the colourful capital below. Wandering its corridors evokes stories of maritime history, whist the sweeping vistas provide an unforgettable introduction to the island’s enduring beauty and strategic maritime importance.
Landmark Attractions
Paradise Beach
Fringed by soft white sand and gently-lapping turquoise waters, Paradise Beach embodies Carriacou’s unhurried charm. Wooden fishing boats rest along the shore whilst offshore reefs invite snorkellers to discover a vibrant kaleidoscope of marine life. As the sun sets, the horizon glows a deep orange and beach bars begin to hum with quiet ambiance. An idyllic escape, Paradise Beach is unspoiled and deeply restorative.
Piton
The highest peak on Petite Martinique, the Piton offers a unique hiking experience, reaching an elevation of 750 feet and providing panoramic views over the surrounding Grenadine islands. The air carries the scent of sea salt and the gentle trade winds whisper of the island’s seafaring heritage. Here, time feels suspended as the horizons stretch endlessly ahead.
Getting There and Around
THE Grenada Airports Authority (GAA ) oversees both Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) on Grenada and Lauriston Airport (CRU) on Carriacou, ensuring seamless management of arrivals and departures.
The GAA also oversees the smooth operation of parking, car rental desks, duty-free concessions, food outlets, passenger lounges, and executive services at both airports.
The GAA Executive Lounge, for example, operates daily between 6:30am and 10:30pm and is located on the Upper Mezzanine Floor of the departure hall at GND.
Travellers will also find a well-appointed departure concourse at GND with shops offering duty-free liquor, perfume, jewellery, local crafts, and a café, with the GAA on hand to ensure gateway services across the islands are efficient, accessible, and welcoming.
Once travellers have passed through GND, the island’s public transport options include minibuses – also known as route taxis – across nine numbered zones, which offer economical fares and operate between approximately 6am and 9pm, Monday to Saturday. Private taxis and the local ride-share app, Haylup, are also on hand to reach areas where buses don’t serve.
Car rentals are best suited for those who wish to explore independently, although it’s important to note a local driving permit is required by law.
To reach Carriacou, travellers may opt for a scenic ferry ride to the island – which takes around 90 minutes from
Carenage Harbour in St. George’s – or a brief 15-minute flight with SVG Air between GND and CRU.
Upon arrival in Carriacou, transport links include minibuses, taxis, jeep rentals, and mopeds. The Osprey ferry, meanwhile, connects the island with Petite Martinique.
In short, this multimodal transport network ensures visitors can traverse the tri-island nation efficiently –whether exploring its lush inland landscapes or tranquil shores.
