Capital: St. George’s

Population (Estimated July 2012): 109,011

Area: 344 km² or 133 mi²

Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$)

Official Language: English

Political Information: Parliamentary Democracy under a Constitutional Monarchy

Official Religion: No Official Religion (approximately 53% of the population are Roman Catholic, 13.8% are Anglican and 33.2% have other Protestant religious beliefs)

Highest Mountain: Mount Saint Catherine at 840m or 2, 756ft

GDP Official Exchange Rate (OER is more precise at gauging a countries economic power)

(Estimated 2011): $800 million (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (OER) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): (US$) or (GBP)

GDP Purchasing Power Parity (PPP is good for gauging living conditions and use of resources but not as accurate as OER. This data has been calculated based on the sum value of all goods and services produced in the country valued at prices prevailing in the United States) 

(Estimated 2011): $1.453 billion (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (PPP) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): $13,300 (US$) or (GBP)

Time Zone (GMT/UTC): -4:00

Wildlife:

 

 Counties/Provinces/States: 6 parishes and 1 dependency*; Carriacou and Petite Martinique*, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick

  

Leaders: H.M. Queen Elizabeth II with Carlyle Glean as the Governor General and Tillman Thomas as Prime Minister

Sources: CIA World Fact Book, Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Grenada

Grenada, also known as the “Spice Isle,” is a stunning Caribbean island located in the southeastern part of the Caribbean Sea. It is a part of the Windward Islands and is situated northwest of Trinidad and Tobago and northeast of Venezuela. The island is known for its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. With a population of around 112,000 people, Grenada is a relatively small island nation, but it is rich in history and natural beauty. The capital city of Grenada is St. George’s, which is also the country’s largest city. The official language spoken in Grenada is English, and the local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar. Grenada is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality.

History and Culture of Grenada

Grenada has a fascinating history that dates back to the indigenous Arawak and Carib people who originally inhabited the island. In 1498, Christopher Columbus was the first European to set foot on the island during his third voyage to the Americas. The island was later colonized by the French in the 17th century, and then it was ceded to the British in 1763. Grenada gained independence from Britain in 1974 and became a constitutional monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state. The island has a diverse cultural heritage that is influenced by African, French, British, and Caribbean traditions. This cultural fusion is evident in the island’s music, dance, art, and cuisine. The people of Grenada are known for their warm and friendly nature, and they take great pride in their cultural traditions and heritage.

Geography and Climate of Grenada

Grenada is a volcanic island with a mountainous interior that is covered in lush rainforests. The island is also surrounded by stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts. The climate in Grenada is tropical, with warm temperatures throughout the year. The island experiences a wet season from June to December and a dry season from January to May. The average temperature in Grenada ranges from 75°F to 85°F, providing perfect weather for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. The island is also prone to hurricanes during the wet season, but it has a well-developed infrastructure to handle such natural disasters.

Economy and Tourism in Grenada

Grenada’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with a focus on spice production. The island is one of the world’s largest producers of nutmeg and mace, which are essential ingredients in many cuisines around the world. In addition to spices, Grenada also exports cocoa, bananas, and other tropical fruits. Tourism is also a significant contributor to the island’s economy, with visitors flocking to Grenada to experience its natural beauty and vibrant culture. The tourism industry in Grenada offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including snorkelling, diving, hiking, and exploring historical sites. The island has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to boutique hotels, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers.

Famous Landmarks and Attractions in Grenada

Grenada is home to several famous landmarks and attractions that showcase its natural beauty and rich history. One of the most iconic landmarks in Grenada is Grand Anse Beach, which is known for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports at this popular beach. Another must-visit attraction in Grenada is the Grand Etang National Park and Forest Reserve, which offers hiking trails through lush rainforests and around a picturesque crater lake. The island is also home to historic sites such as Fort George, which offers panoramic views of St. George’s harbour, and the Grenada National Museum, which showcases the island’s history and culture.

Cuisine and Culinary Traditions of Grenada

Grenadian cuisine is a delightful fusion of African, French, British, and Caribbean flavours, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices. One of the most famous dishes in Grenada is “oil down,” which is a hearty one-pot meal made with salted meat, breadfruit, coconut milk, and spices. Another popular dish is “callaloo,” a delicious soup made with leafy greens, okra, coconut milk, and various seasonings. Grenada is also known for its rum production, with several distilleries on the island producing high-quality rum that is enjoyed locally and exported worldwide. Visitors to Grenada can also sample local delicacies such as “roti,” a savoury pastry filled with curried meat or vegetables, and “sorrel,” a refreshing drink made from hibiscus flowers.

Why Grenada is a must-visit destination

In conclusion, Grenada is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The island’s stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The warm and friendly people of Grenada welcome visitors with open arms, sharing their rich cultural traditions and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, explore historical sites, or indulge in local flavours, Grenada has something to offer for every type of traveller. With its fascinating history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality, Grenada truly stands out as one of the most enchanting destinations in the Caribbean.

FAQs

 

What is the location of Grenada?

Grenada is a small island country located in the Caribbean Sea, to the northwest of Trinidad and Tobago and to the northeast of Venezuela.

What is the capital city of Grenada?

The capital city of Grenada is St. George’s, which is also the country’s main port and the administrative and economic centre.

What is the population of Grenada?

As of the latest available data, the population of Grenada is estimated to be around 112,000 people.

What is the official language of Grenada?

The official language of Grenada is English, which is widely spoken and used for official and administrative purposes.

What is the currency used in Grenada?

The official currency of Grenada is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), which is also used by several other countries in the Eastern Caribbean.

What is the climate like in Grenada?

Grenada has a tropical climate, with a dry season from January to May and a rainy season from June to December. The average temperature ranges from 24°C to 30°C throughout the year.

What are the main industries in Grenada?

The main industries in Grenada include tourism, agriculture (particularly nutmeg, cocoa, and bananas), and manufacturing (especially food and beverages).

What are some popular tourist attractions in Grenada?

Some popular tourist attractions in Grenada include Grand Anse Beach, Fort George, Annandale Falls, Grand Etang National Park, and the Underwater Sculpture Park.