Grenada

Celebrate 38 Years With Us

Tornia Charles — 2012-01-20T15:14+00:00

The islands are buzzing with excitement as the countdown to Grenada’s 38th Independence Anniversary Celebration continues. A sea of red, green and gold flood the streets of the city as Grenadians portray their national colours with their best independence outfits. The rich aroma from a pot of ‘oil down’ will awaken your senses from almost every street corner while calypso and soca music can be heard echoing from every bar! Activities begin during the month of January and continue with events such as an independence torch run, a best village and calypso competition and even a swim meet. Come experience a passion like no other as Grenadian nationals display their love for their country on Monday 7th February, 2012. Feel the fervour of our farmers, experience the elation of our folk dancers and make memories worth a lifetime with our military parade! Celebrate 38 years of Independence with Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique! For more information – Contact: Grenada Board of Tourism Burns Point St. George’s Grenada Ph: 1 473 440 2279/2001 Fax: 1 473 440 6637 Email: gbt@spiceisle.com Website: www.grenadagrenadines.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/discovergrenada Twitter: www.twitter.com/discovergrenada

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Grenada Scores two top awards in Scuba Diving Magazine’s 2012 Reader’s Choice Awards

Orlando Romain — 2012-01-19T16:13+00:00

Grenada was rated #1 in two of the most coveted categories in the 2012 Scuba Diving Magazine Awards – Best Advanced Diving and Best Wreck Diving in the Caribbean/Atlantic. The destination is described as “a magnet for divers who prefer to explore sites that are high on the difficulty meter. When you combine unpredictable, muscular currents, fast moving reef drifts, blue-water descents and deep wrecks like the Hema I (90 feet), Shakem (100 feet) and the 600 foot former Italian luxury liner, Bianca C (165 feet), you’ve just mixed up the perfect recipe for advanced diving. To add to the excitement, take the 90-minute ferry ride from St. Georges to Carriacou, one of the three islands that comprise this country, and explore the fish-swarmed pinnacles and sunken vessels just offshore.” “We are deeply gratified that our unique array of reefs, walls and ship wrecks has been recognized by the readers of Scuba Diving Magazine,” said Simon Stiell, Director of Tourism for Grenada. “With 50 dive sites on two islands to choose from, there is always something new and exhilarating to explore.” For the Readers’ Choice Awards, thousands of Scuba Diving subscribers and web users rated their dive experiences on a scale of one to five. Results of the 2012 Awards are featured in the January/February 2012 issue of Scuba Diving magazine now on the newsstands. Grenada, with its great drift and reef dives is perfect for divers of all levels. Whether above or below the water, Grenada’s tropical colours, pristine beaches, rainforests, wonderful food and its greatest treasure, the warm and welcoming people, will make your visit above and below the water a pleasure.

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Experience a Carnival with a Difference

Tornia Charles — 2012-01-18T18:42+00:00

Whether it is the shimmering costumes of the masqueraders, the organized movements of the jab jabs or the sweet sound of the soca and steel pan music, a Caribbean Carnival Celebration is always an experience of a lifetime! But when it comes to the little island of Carriacou, the experience is definitely one with a difference. Most persons take the 90 minute ferry ride aboard the Osprey Lines, while others prefer the 20 minute flight via SVG Air. In 2011 however, ‘The Real Jab Jab Group’ from mainland Grenada chartered a large vessel which enabled passengers to enjoy a 4 hour party on route to Carriacou. Of course in keeping with the traditional Caribbean Carnival, one will still see beauty and talent at its best on the night of the Queen Show Competition and the early morning jouvert in L’Esterre, among so many other aspects. What differentiates the Carriacou Celebrations from the rest of the islands is the Shakespeare Mas. It is the only place in this region, where one can see men dressed in peirrots engage in battle using only the lines from Shakespeare’s plays. If the competitor is slow to respond, a quick stroke of his whip will suffice as punishment. So in Carriacou, whether it’s the crack of the whip of the Shakespeare masqueraders, the sound of the conch shell or just the way one got there in the first place, this Carnival experience is definitely one with a difference.

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What Better Way to Enjoy the New Year

Tornia Charles — 2011-12-20T16:48+00:00

Do you have any family or friends who are longing to visit the Caribbean? Perhaps you would like to take a trip yourself. Whichever it is, the year 2012 brings with it a host of options in air travel for persons to visit Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Most recently launched is the twice weekly nonstop service from Canada to Grenada via Caribbean Airlines. The flight begins in Trinidad, connecting to Grenada and continuing on to Toronto every Thursday and Sunday. The airfare includes 2 checked bags at 50lbs each, inflight entertainment and complimentary meals and snacks. If you’re in New York, Caribbean Airlines also provides a twice weekly nonstop service from New York to Grenada on Wednesdays and Saturdays via JFK’s International Airport. If you’re coming from Miami or Orlando, there is no need to worry. Caribbean Airlines provides flights from the Miami International Airport and the Orlando International Airport. If you’ve already planned a trip to another Caribbean island, then why not enhance your vacation by adding Grenada to your itinerary. Caribbean Airlines makes connections to Grenada from many other neighbouring islands. What better way to enjoy the New Year than to hop onboard a flight to the Caribbean and indulge in the warmth and authenticity of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Feel free to visit the website at www.caribbean-airlines.com or the closest ticket office. You can also contact your travel agent today.

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Add Some Spice to Your Christmas Holidays

Tornia Charles — 2011-12-15T19:28+00:00

One of the best parts of the Christmas holidays is spending time with family and other loved ones. This year, you can add a little Grenadian flavor to the season, by coming together to create this delectable desert. With its mouth watering aroma and luscious appeal, this Grenadian nutmeg cake recipe is perfect for the Christmas holidays. Chocolate Frosted Nutmeg Cake Ingredients 2 cups brown sugar 2 cups sifted flour ½ cup shortening 1 egg 1 teaspoon nutmeg 1 cup sour milk 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ cup chopped ground nuts or cashew nuts Method Step 1: In a bowl, blend sugar and flour. Step 2: Add shortening and mix with fingers until crumbs form. Step 3: Place half the crumbs in a greased square pan. Step 4: Add the egg, nutmeg and sour milk mixed with the soda to the remaining crumbs. Step 5: Pour batter into the crumbs and sprinkle with nuts. Step 6: Bake 35 to 40 minutes in a preheated moderate oven. Note: To make 1 cup sour milk, add 2 tablespoons vinegar or 1 tablespoon lime juice to ordinary milk. Chocolate Frosting Ingredients 2 cups softened butter 9 cups confectioner’s sugar 2 ½ cups baking cocoa 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup milk Method Cream butter into a mixing bowl and gradually beat in cocoa, vanilla and sugar. Add milk and mix until desired consistency is reached. This recipe can be served hot or cold and yields 10 to 12 servings. Feel free to let us know how you enjoyed it.

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My First Christmas on the Islands

Tornia Charles — 2011-12-08T18:50+00:00

When I first mentioned my decision to visit the islands for Christmas 2010, everyone was rather surprised. They made comments like ‘there would be no snow,’ or ‘where will you find a mistletoe?’ I listened to all of their remarks but I was determined to experience Christmas in Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, so I booked my flight. From the moment I arrived at the airport, I knew my decision was the right one. All of the passengers were greeted with the sweet sound of a steel band music playing Christmas songs. In addition, slices of delicious fruit cake and a choice of sorrel drink or spicy rum punch were served. Since it was somewhat early in the day, I chose the sorrel, and what a surprise I got. It was like cranberry without the bitterness, an absolute taste of heaven. After this I got really excited to see what Christmas on the islands was really all about. My Grenadian friend decided that we should go to Carriacou to experience the Parang Festival. The performers used mainly stringed instruments and expressed lyrics that made the crowd roar with laughter. The topics were based on past and current events happening on the island. It was quite an experience. As Christmas drew nearer, we went serenading through the villages. We sang Christmas carols and local Christmas hymns. Everyone loved it and graced us with hot cocoa tea, salted ham and what everyone referred to as ‘bully bakes.’ So although there was no mistletoe and no snowman, I got a taste of that heavenly sorrel drink, fruit cake, salted ham, bully bakes, parang music and local serenading. I wouldn’t have traded that experience for the world. Island people really do know how to have a great time.

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Add a Little Mystery to Your Trip

Tornia Charles — 2011-11-18T15:31+00:00

If you never had the chance to dive the largest shipwreck in the region, the Grenada National Museum is now giving you the opportunity to relive the story of the Bianca C, otherwise known as the Titanic of the Caribbean. You will be taken on a journey from the luxury liner’s inception to its demise. The most captivating features include actual effects taken from the ship such as teapots, first aid kits, faucets, menus and more. The audio visual aspect is also a sight to behold. It illustrates the burning of the ship, its mazelike passages and so much more. It also features divers who explored the ship, returning only to whisper words such as ‘Wow, Awesome and Amazing!’ Now what once held four bars, a children’s playroom, gift shop, library and two outdoor swimming pools with sparkling tiles lies at the bottom of the ocean filled with mystery and intrigue. With explosions never explained, the mystery of the Bianca C remains a constant fascination at the bottom of the ocean. Feel free to witness it yourself at the Grenada National Museum, located at the corner of Monckton Street and Young Street in St. George's. Adults pay an entrance fee of US$2.50 or EC$5 and children under 13 pay US$1 or EC$2.50. Opening hours are on Monday to Friday from 9am to 4:30pm and on Saturdays from 10am to 1pm. For more information contact: Grenada National Museum Corner of Young & Monckton Street Email: gdamuseum@gmail.com Tel: 1 (473) 440 3725

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Explore the Historical Capital of St. George

Tornia Charles — 2011-11-04T01:35+00:00

Intriguing, unique and fascinating! These are just a few of the words used to describe the city of St. George. You will find that although the city is small, it is filled with amazing features ranging from the Georgian architecture on some of the structures, to the rich history of the forts. In addition, the uniqueness of the forts combines to make a mesmerizing phenomenon. Grenada Discovery Train Come and discover the city of St. George in a charming and exciting way onboard the Grenada Discovery Train. The tinkling sound of the little bells throughout the city will alert you that the Grenada Discovery Train is approaching. This sightseeing trolley, inspired by a 1960’s steam locomotive, offers tours throughout the town. Drinks are available for purchase while on board and the trolley can be rented for special occasions and other special events. Sendall Tunnel Named after Governor Sir Walter Sendall, this 340ft long tunnel is the gateway from the city and the Carenage Waterfront. This tunnel built in 1894 is used for both pedestrians and commuters travelling to St. George’s. Carenage Waterfront If you prefer something a little bit more intimate before you leave, try a quiet evening walk around the Carenage Waterfront. There you will see some of the island’s Georgian architecture and the ‘Christ of the Deep’ statue that reminds everyone of the hospitality of the Grenadian people after the sinking of what has become the largest shipwrecks in the Caribbean; the Bianca C. You will also find various souvenir shops and restaurants dedicated to giving you a splendour of local culinary fare before you leave the city! Forts Grenada’s forst have a history so rich, you can almost smell it! Once regarded as a lunatic asylum, one fort still possesses some intriguing 18th century features such as century bathrooms, army kitchens and cells used to restrain the violently insane. You can still explore some of the underground tunnels, powder magazines and cisterns. Guided tours are provided and the forts can be utilised for private events. These captivating structures are a ‘must see’ for anyone visiting the island. So, if you have gotten off the ship to see what the island has to offer, exploring the capital of St. George is the perfect place to start.

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5 Ways to Spice Up Your Cruise Vacation

Tornia Charles — 2011-10-06T15:24+00:00

Cruise vacationers always have such a short time to explore a destination. However, there are many intriguing activities that one can engage in while in Grenada, Carriacou or Petite Martinique. The article outlines 5 of the most fun adventures that cruise tourists enjoy while on island. 1. Feed the Mona Monkeys at Grand Etang For vacationers that are nature lovers, the Grand Etang Forest Reserve is definitely the place to be. Some of the friendly inhabitants, more specifically the Mona Monkeys, will never hesitate to come out and greet the tourists. These furry litter critters love attention and appreciate nothing better than to eat a piece of fruit from the palm of one’s hand. 2. Take the Water Taxi to Grand Anse Beach For the beach lovers, why not spice things up a bit by taking a water taxi to the famous 2 mile long Grand Anse Beach. The 15 minute ride takes you along the southern coast of the island where you will see the majestic views while being entertained by the drivers as they enlighten visitors of their many travels over the years and give tips on how to get the most out of the vacation. 3. Ride the Grenada Discovery Train This is a definite must do for every cruise tourist! This little trolley inspired by a 1980’s steam locomotive takes visitors on a 35 minute tour through the narrow streets of St. George’s making a total of 10 stops along the way. Visitors can get off at historical landmarks such as the Roman Catholic Church, the Christ of the Deep Statue among others and can purchase various drinks on board. The train gives visitors free admission to some attractions with the tour ending at the Cruise Terminal. 4. Visit Annandale Waterfalls Upon arrival at the Annandale Waterfalls, vacationers will be greeted by 3 ‘Spice Ladies,’ dressed in colours of red, green and gold with large baskets filled with various spices. They usually deliver a spicy welcome and invite everyone to take pictures with the Mona Monkey. A quick swim is always encouraged, but for those who may be a bit scared of the chills, they must feel free to simply watch the ‘Jumpers’ as they leap from the top of the waterfall to the deep waters below. A tour of the Annandale Nature Garden is always encouraged so that visitors can see the local herbs, spices and fruits usually incorporated into Grenadian cuisine. 5. Explore the Spice Basket The Spice Basket is Grenada’s latest attraction and has loads to offer. From the intrigue of the West Indian Heritage Cricket Museum, and the relaxing jive of the live band, to the exceptional flavours of local Grenadian cuisine, the Spice Basket is like the island of Grenada neatly packaged in one location.

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Experience the 50th Anniversary of the Bianca C

Tornia Charles — 2011-09-02T14:33+00:00

October 22, 2011 marks the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Bianca C Cruise Ship in Grenada’s coastal waters. Included among the ‘Top 10 Wreck Sites in the World,’ this ship has been referred to as the ‘Titanic of the Caribbean.’ In fact it remains the largest shipwreck in the entire Caribbean region for experienced divers, and is a local, regional and international icon among diving enthusiasts. As the 50th Anniversary approaches, various activities are scheduled to commemorate and pay tribute to those whose efforts resulted in the rescue and safe keeping of the crew and passengers of the ship. It is expected that this event will give persons the opportunity to view exhibits retrieved from the sunken treasure as well as photographs, artifacts and stories of those who saw, assisted and housed the victims of the vessel among other items. A painting of the large sized vessel will also be auctioned and a replica of the ‘Christ of the Deep’ statue will be placed among those at the Underwater Sculpture Park. Additionally, a commemorative plaque will be placed on the Bianca C and another on the ‘Christ of the Deep’ statue in the Underwater Sculpture Park. Other activities for non divers such as picnics on our famous Grand Anse Beach will also be held. This is an historic event that should not be missed! For more information: Grenada Board of Tourism P.O. Box 293 Burns Point St. George Email: gbt@spiceisle.com Website: www.grenadagrenadines.com

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