ShoreTrips says...

Grenada, the "Island of Spice," is recognized by the world in general as a bit of a legend in its own time. The island has endured some of the most radical govenments and govenmental changes of the Caribbean region's past 50 years. The intervention of the United States put Grenada on the map during our participation of its invasion in 1983.

As things have come back to normal, Grenada has become more and more important to travelers who have discovered that this island has much to offer.

Grenada is second only to Indonesia in the production of nutmeg and its byproduct, mace. It is also a major producer of cinnamon, cocoa, and many other spices with their delicious smells wafting through the air.

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the old capital, St. George's, and the winding route of the scenic west coast as we visit Concorde Waterfall, a spice plantation, and the fishing town of Gouyave, which is the center of Grenada's fishing industry. It has also been called the city that never sleeps, as most nights there is a party going on with plenty of local music.

Here, we'll make a visit to the Nutmeg Processing Station in the center of town. The fragrant tour is a fascinating look at this factory that turns out over 3 million pounds of nutmeg each year.

Our drive continues through the aromatic spice plantations, including the Belvedere Estate.

Deep in the interior of lush, mountainous Grenada is a bird sanctuary and forest reserve with lookouts and fishing streams called the Grand Etang Forest Reserve. This 36-acre expanse of cobalt-blue water fills the crater of an extinct volcano. Close to the lake is the visitor center, which provides visitors with a fascinating introduction to the island's indigenous wildlife, vegetation, forestry, history, and culture. The Nature Center in the reserve will be the last stop on the return journey. Keep an eye out and, if you're lucky, you may spot a mona monkey, indigenous to this area.