markevans

After spending two of the most incredible weeks I can remember in Grenada I will be singing the praises of this little gem of an island whenever I can !

Forget the tourist traps in some of the northern islands - this is the real Caribbean and it is just gorgeous. Spectacular beaches, mountains, rainforest,lush tropical plants, waterfalls and genuinely friendly, charming people. There is much to do or you can spend endless days lazing about doing nothing. We did a bit of both.

While reading through some recent posts I notice folks are concerned about weather and hurricanes during the next few months. No worries here, it is below the hurricane belt.

We loved the island and our resort, Bel Air Plantation. Both were much better than we expected and we expected a lot. Our accomodation was superb in every aspect. It is off the beaten track, not touristy and the villas are simple yet luxurious. As a few other contributers have said it is definately a cut above. Wonderful folks who run the resort,great food and a tranquil, romatic setting - what more could you ask for. Highly recommend both to anyone considering a trip to the Caribbean.

Happy to answer any questions about Grenada or Bel Air Plantation.

jublank

this is great to hear. we were trying to head to Anguilla from St. Vincent in Aug. but can't find flights and was deterred from Grenada due to posts about beach vendors (I know it sounds silly but for our honeymoon I'm trying to keep reality from intruding) Did you do any diving? Did you see any other resorts during your stay? love to hear about it!

markevans

We spent a bit of time at Grande Anse Beach which is where I assume people are talking about beach vendors being an issue. We saw a few but they were friendly and not at all aggressive. However, this part of Grenada is the most touristy and is where the majority of the hotels are located.

If you want to escape from reality I would highly recommend the resort we stayed at, Bel Air Plantation. It is about 20 minutes north of the Grande Anse area and on a bay. Spectacular setting and very luxurious accommodations. It is small and intimate and in my opinion perfect for a honeymoon. We stayed in a one bedroom villa which was spacious and very private. There is a wonderful restaurant at the resort and it is only a few minutes walk from the villas. Also a great infinity edge pool which is on the hillside. It really is a delightful place.

We did not do any diving , so I can't comment on this. I did notice quite a few dive shops so I assume the diving is good.

We checked out a few other resorts but most of them seemed along the lines of typical resorts you find in the Caribbean. Spice Island Beach Resort is very nice but is located in the more touristy area. There is another large hotel which looked quite nice also but the name escapes me. I will see if my wife remembers.

Grenada is truly a beautiful island. We have been to many in the Caribbean and it beats them all. I can't wait to go back!

cousin

Thanks for the report. We're planning a November trip and will probably be staying at Bel Air. Did you rent a car? Did you do most of your island touring on your own, or with a guide? Any other recommendations you can provide, restaurants, tours, etc. would be appreciated. Did you go to any of the other surrounding islands?

markevans

Cousin,

We did rent a car but only for part of the time we were in Grenada. The Bel Air staff recommended that we wait a few days before getting a car and they were perfectly correct. The first couple of days we spent winding down and being sinfully lazy. On day three we took an island tour with the resort driver who was a very charming man and well versed in regards to the island and all the out of the way spots to see. It was very helpful and lots of fun. We then knew where to go back to and gained a general sense of the island.

Once we had the car we explored quite a bit and it was great fun The locals are very engaging and helpful (not many directional signs) and each day was an adventure. I would definately suggest getting a car or you will miss out on wonderful experiences and not see the much of the island aside form the regular tourist stops.

We loved the restaurant at Bel Air but did try a few others, just for variety. Recommend Beach House, Red Crab and for a fun night Castaways.

We took a day trip to Carriacou. The boat ride was very bumpy, did not bother us but some looked a bit distressed. I guess it depends on your tolerance for the sea. Quaint, lovely island and if you have the time worth the trip.

Also spent some time at La Sagesse beach which is right next to Bel Air. Lovely and never crowded, usually ten or so other people on the beach. They have a nice simple little beach bar restaurant there which was great for lunch.

You will love Grenada and Bel Air Plantation both truly are the winners.

ungersma

Hi there! I'm looking for a place to honeymoon this September, and Grenada is sounding pretty great. One question: did you do any snorkeling while you were there? Is it the sort of island where you can snorkel off the beach, or do you have to take a boat offshore?