Grenada

While walking along a narrow street in St. George's, a young man on the opposite side hollered, "Hey! First time in Grenada?" Reflexively, though wary, I ever so slightly nodded yes. Then, in a big, friendly voice, he shouted, "Are you enjoyin' it?" When I nodded again, his face broadened into a huge smile and, with a big wave, he continued on his way. That, I can affirm based on many visits, is a typical encounter in visitor-friendly Grenada.

On February 7, 2009, the people on this lush, green, picturesque isle happily celebrated the nation's 35th year of independence. The divisive political events leading to the intervention by U.S. troops in October 1983 are fading from memory. Grenada has developed a healthy tourism sector and a modern infrastructure, including welcoming hotels and resorts, good roads, up-to-date technology, and reliable utilities.

The nation of Grenada actually consists of three islands: Grenada, the largest, with a population of 90,000; Carriacou (car-ree-a-coo), north of Grenada, with a population of about 9,000; and Petite Martinique, with a population of only 900. Carriacou and Petite Martinique are popular for day trips, fishing adventures, or diving and snorkeling excursions, but most of the tourist activity is on Grenada. People interested in a really quiet, get-away-from-it-all vacation will, however, appreciate the simple pleasures of Carriacou during an extended stay.

The island of Grenada itself has 45 beaches and countless secluded coves. Crisscrossed by nature trails and laced with spice plantations, its mountainous interior is mostly consumed by a natural rain forest preserve. St. George's is one of the most picturesque capital cities in the Caribbean, and Grand Anse is one of the region's finest beaches.

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