Although this wasn’t my first, second, third, or ninth time heading to the island of Barbados (that is what happens when your husband is from there!), I had a family obligation there that I had to attend so had to make another visit. However, I wanted to change it up a bit this time and see if I could squeeze in another island. After doing a bit of research, I found that Liat was only a 40 minute flight away from Grenada (affectionately known as “Greenz” in the West Indian community). It was an island I had been longing to visit for awhile, and now after having been, I can’t wait to return!
Top Reasons I LOVE Grenada:
Close proximity to New York and other Caribbean islands
Only four and a half short hours from New York with a number of non-stop, direct flights available through various airlines, getting to Grenada is easier now than ever before. Since I was flying from another Caribbean island (Barbados), Liat was my “best” option. I was a bit skeptical at having to take Liat (for all those who’ve flown Liat, you can understand why!) but booked my flight and before I knew it, I was walking down the tarmac toward the tiny propeller plane. Given my past experience with Liat (aka “leave island any time), I didn’t want to get too comfortable since there was a good chance that the flight would be delayed but lo and behold, the stars aligned and the flight left ON TIME (much to my surprise). It was a quick, smooth flight and in no time, I touched down on the “Spice Island.”
Other than being held up at customs by an incredibly nosy officer that just couldn’t believe I was travelling by myself without my husband (HUMPH, this is the 21st century!), the transfer from the airport to hotel (one way: $16 by taxi, 10-15 minutes long) was pretty uneventful. Given the short ride, it wasn’t long before I had a rum punch in hand, basking in the sun with my toes in the sand. Side note: I’ve had rum punches on other islands but Grenada’s packs one mean punch!
Adventure
While I wasn’t able to make it to the smaller sister island of Carricaou, I made the best of my short time on the Spice Isle. I had read all about the Underwater Sculpture Park (an underwater gallery of sculptures in the Molinere Beauséjour Marine Protected Area) which was part of my draw to the island, so was pretty excited to experience it with my own eyes. The excursion was mostly made up of scuba divers but given my experience at the Great Barrier Reef (see Australia post), I was quite happy with my choice of snorkeling. Many of the statues were in disrepair but it was still amazing to see. From “Vicissitudes” (a circle of life size figures cast from local children linked by holding hand) to “The Lost Correspondent” (a man working at his desk and typewriter covered with historical newspaper cuttings including some documenting Grenada’s involvement with Cuba, depicting the lost correspondent as a relic in today’s society), it was truly incredible to see all of the sculptures up close.
Another item on my list was the Seven Sisters hike (I have no idea why since I am totally out of shape!). Located inside Grand Etang National Park, Grenada’s Seven Sisters Waterfall is definitely a must-see on the island. The first part of the hike is a wide dirt road through a private plantation. After paying a nominal fee to enter, I began the hike with the guide pointing out varieties of fruit and spices like cocoa, nutmeg, and bananas growing along the trail. The second part of the hike passes through part of the rain forest, and that was the more arduous part. It was wet, muddy, and unstable in many places so I was just praying I didn’t bust my butt or sprain an ankle! It only took about 45 minutes to get there so definitely not too bad if you have no stamina like me (it also helped that it was downhill so no huffing and puffing needed).
Finally reaching the first waterfall, I “rewarded” myself with a dip in the cool water. Ok, cool is an understatement. That water was FREEZING…almost as cold as that time I jumped into a glacial river in Iceland (see Iceland post). It did feel good after hiking in the blazing sun though. The guide mentioned there were other “sisters” further up but I knew my hiking limits and was pretty content with seeing what I did 😉 Good thing I quit while I was ahead because the hike back was definitely not as easy. Being mostly uphill, I was definitely huffing and puffing on the way back. After finally reaching the car and heading out, the tour guide took me to a few places around the northeast part of the island with some great views, including the famous Belmont Estate, a 300-year-old plantation specializing in such spices as ginger, pimento, turmeric, and nutmeg. There is also a chocolate factory for those with a sweet tooth.
Food
No visit to Grenada is complete without enjoying local delicacies! After getting knocked out by their rum on the first day, I took it easy on that spirit but indulged in all of the yummy food! I read up on so many wonderful restaurants before I went and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
BBs Crabback: Located on the water at the end of the Carenage in St.George, the waterfront restaurant evoked a family vibe which I was immediately drawn to as soon as I entered. I was seated at a table overlooking the water and promptly tended to (my kind of place!). Since I love tasting different foods, I ordered a bunch of different appetizers: avocado perry, classic bbq ribs, macaroni and cheese, and of course the crabback (which was fresh crabmeat baked with herbs, wine, and cheese and served in the shell). Delicious!!! The only thing I found strange was the ribs which came on top of salad…definitely a first for me but still good 🙂
The Beach House restaurant: Though I knew it would be a bit more “uppity” (right up my alley!), I heard some great reviews about this restaurant and it didn’t disappoint. Located in historic Portici Bay (near the airport), the restaurant has an elegant-casual vibe that would make it a great place to celebrate a special occasion. I had my eye on the lobster thermidor from the moment I opened the menu so I was able to place my order quickly and enjoy the ambience until the food arrived. The thermidor was far from the best I’ve ever had but would still recommend it.
Savvy’s at Mount Cinnamon: Located on the beach of Mount Cinnamon, I ate here a few times given its proximity to the hotel (and my laziness after those rum punches!). The cuisine ranged from local fare to American food so definitely something for everyone. I tried damn near everything on the menu that was fried, including the lambie (conch) bites, codfish cakes, fish and chips, and hummus with roti chips. Definitely good eats while enjoying quality time on the beach.
Hotel
Located on a steep hill by Grand Anse beach, the Mount Cinnamon resort came highly recommended. With its vibrant décor and breathtaking views, it was easy to understand everyone’s attraction to the resort. From the extensive buffet breakfast (complete with local and traditional items) to the evening bonfire (complete with dancers and s’mores for dessert) to the warm and friendly staff (literally everyone knew my name!), the Mount Cinnamon is the perfect hotel for families, couples, or solo travelers like myself. It also didn’t hurt that my room was only a 2-minute walk from the beach. The only downside is that because the hotel is situated so close to the rocks, the waves are extremely rough (trust me, I experienced them firsthand when I wasn’t paying attention and one knocked me right on my derriere!).
Small island feel
With my parents from such a small island (population of Nevis ~11K with more monkeys than people currently on the island), I LOVE countries with a “small island feel.” In the 3 ½ days I was on the island, I met several folks in different locations that knew each other (my taxi driver to BBs Crabback was the cousin of the taxi driver that took me to Beach House!) and everyone I met seemed genuinely happy and honored to show me their small piece of paradise. From the hotel staff to the tour guides and waiters, everyone was warm and welcoming which can make all the difference when you are travelling solo! I also saw some folks preparing “sea eggs” (which I had really only heard about in Barbados) they picked from the ocean floor. I’ll definitely have to try one (which can be eaten steamed or raw) on my next visit! This little island is definitely on my list of places to return, with many locals telling me that their carnival (known as SpiceMas) was not to be missed. With my love of carnival, I can definitely see a return visit in my near future!
Toya's Travels 