Introduction to Grenada

Quick Overview

The Grenada archipelago includes the island of Grenada itself, as well as Carriacou (34 km²; 8,000 inhabitants) and Petite Martinique (2.4 km²; 900 inhabitants) among its inhabited "dependencies." All are located in the southern part of the Grenadines archipelago, just above Trinidad and Tobago.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: in the Caribbean, north of Trinidad and Tobago.

• Latitude/longitude: 12.07' N, 61.40' W.

• Local time: Heure : 5066

• Capital: St. George's.

• Nature of the state: constitutional monarchy and Commonwealth member.

• Official language: English.

• Currency: East Caribbean dollar.

• Population: 112,207 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 344 km².

• Density: 326 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Mount Saint Catherine (840 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline: 121 km.

• Driving: on the left.

Tourism

Tourism is one of Grenada’s main resources. As is often the case, beach activities—partly concentrated in the southwest around Grand Anse—remain the island’s main attraction, though the interior, with its forests and waterfalls, is well worth a detour. Cruise tourism also plays a significant role, with many U.S. cruise ships docking for short stopovers.

In short, Grenada has a certain charm, though it is not one of the most visited islands in the Caribbean. Around 150,000 people visit each year (161,000 in 2018), primarily from the United States, England, and Canada.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner travelers.

• By air: France–St. George's.

• Entry requirements: passport + return ticket.

• Currency to bring: US dollar.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget: from 45 to 65 € per person.

• Best for accommodation: guesthouse or shared apartment/villa rental.

• Best for getting around:

• Risks: low in terms of health and safety.

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices: late April/May and early December offer the best balance in all aspects.

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★/ ★★★; Adventure ★; Culture ★; Relaxation/Holidays ★★★.

Addresses in France

Tourist Office: online only (English).

Addresses in Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 75/188 (2018 ranking)

• GDP per capita: $15,100 (2017)

• Average monthly income: $654 (2014)

• Inflation: +0.9% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 24% (2017)

• Population below poverty line: 38% (2011)

• Life expectancy: 74.8 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -2.9 (2017)

• Population growth: +0.42% (2018)

• Literacy rate:

• Urban population: 36.3% (2018)

• Press freedom: 35/180 (2017 ranking)

• Political regime:

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook