The air is thick, not of pollutants but, of the aromatic essences of spices—Nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla. Their sweet scents will certainly tickle your senses. Their sweet scents will surely relax your mind and body. After all, this is “The Spice of the Caribbean.” This is Grenada.

  Located in the eastern Caribbean and about 150 kilometers (90 miles) north of the South American coast, is the independent island nation of Grenada. It is a volcanic, mountainous island with little level land. Numerous streams, springs, and mountain lakes are found on Grenada, and alluvial river valleys provide fertile soil for farming. Add to that its tropical climate, it is definitely perfect for agriculture and/or agribusiness the abundance of spices.

  In Grenada, there are even more spices, per square mile, than anywhere else on the planet! Nutmeg is the most abundant among all the spices in the island. In fact, Grenada supplies about one third of the world’s nutmeg production. That is a lot!

  In addition to the main island of Grenada, the nation also includes the nearby smaller islands of Carriacou (pronounced as Carry-a Koo) and Petit Martinique (pronounced Pitty Mar-ti-Neek). Unlike the main island of Grenada, Carriacou is not mountainous but is rather hilly. Its smoother terrain is a highly recommended destination for walking, so get your walking shoes ready. To the northeast coast of Carriacou lies the third and smallest island, Petit Martinique. However, this island consists of little more than the tip of a volcanic cone poking through the water.

  English is the official language, but many Grenadians speak a French dialect of some sort.
Grenada’s capital and largest city is St. George’s. Perhaps because of the city’s abundance in pastel-rainbow dockside warehouses and red-tiled roofed shops and homes all around its horseshoe-shaped harbour, it is dubbed as the most picturesque city in the Caribbean. St. George’s may well be a haven to fans of classical design and construction as well as history buffs because it is also rich in English, French and West Indian history, as reflected in its beautiful well-preserved examples of French and British Colonial architecture.

  One can also take delight in Grenadian cuisine. Take your pick from a wide range of sumptuous dishes – from native Grenadian food, made from the fresh bountiful produce that is found in the bustling markets, to some of the most exquisite creations in international cuisine. Callaloo soup, a medley of the freshest local seafood, is the island’s most popular local dish, served in most restaurants, prepared in true West Indian flare.

  Grenada is no let down to beach buffs and marine life lovers alike. Carriacou, for example, possesses fine sand beaches and natural harbours. It also has excellent views of the northern Grenadine islands. In general, though, Grenada boasts of stunning white sand beaches, brilliant blue water, and exquisite coral reefs.

  With these things mentioned, coupled with the hovering aromatic smell of the spices, Grenada promises to be a very good respite.