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ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES - THE GEM OF THE ANTILLES
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES - THE GEM OF THE ANTILLES
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is an independent, Commonwealth island nation in the Eastern Caribbean. Located in the Windward Islands, it sits south of Saint Lucia and north of Grenada in the Lesser Antilles. The country comprises over 32 islands and cays, with St. Vincent the main island. Its capital is Kingstown, and the population is approximately 100,000.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles, lives up to its title from its towering La Soufriere volcanic peak to its lush rainforests and striking black and white sand beaches; the landscapes are nothing short of stunning.
In fact, its national flag features three green diamonds in the centre, symbolizing the “gems” of the Antilles.
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The economy’s main income earners are tourism and agriculture, with bananas being the primary crop and export. Other exports include arrowroot, coconuts, and root crops such as yams, tannia, dasheen (taro), eddoes, and sweet potatoes, among others. St. Vincent itself has a mountainous, volcanic interior, with the highest peak being the La Soufriere Volcano rising 1,234 meters (4,049 feet) above sea level.
Additionally, it boasts many cultural festivals, all-inclusive beach resorts, delicious and unique cuisine, and alluring Islands. Therefore, it is undeniable that you have a destination that truly deserves attention.
Please continue reading to learn more about my visit to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles.
ENTRY INTO VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
St. Vincent and the Grenadines has five airports: one on the mainland of St. Vincent and four smaller ones in the Grenadines (Bequia, Union Island, Canouan, and Mustique). However, the main gateway is the newly built airport (three years to be exact), Argyle International Airport (SVD), located 8.32 miles from Kingstown.
The airport is a modern, small to medium-sized, clean, and user-friendly airport, with duty-free shops and a food court. One interesting feature is that the control tower is positioned off-site on a nearby hill away from the airport. I found this really cool. It is likely due to the island’s terrain, which provides air traffic controllers with better visibility of the surroundings from above the airport.
Upon arrival, all passengers disembarked on the tarmac and walked to the bright blue and green terminal building. Note: it has a Sky Walk/Jet Bridge, but I assume it is for international flights or bigger planes arriving at a different terminal. Immigration was swift and efficient because, from my observation, the officers did not “drill” passengers as I previously saw at other airports. After I handed the officer my passport, he did not ask for proof of accommodation, etc., only how long I intended to stay. After this, he stamped my passport and said, “Enjoy your stay.” Customs was equally smooth, because there were no baggage scans or extra checks.
Everyone at the airport was very helpful and pleasant. I had no issues getting the airport staff to take my photos. Overall, the smooth process was smooth, and within 15 – 20 minutes, I was heading to the taxi area.
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TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO THE CITY -KINGSTOWN
A taxi from the Argyle International Airport to the city center costs approximately US$35 – US$50 (EC$94 – EC$135) and takes about 25 – 45 minutes.
Budget travellers without luggage can walk to the main road and take a public mini-van (regular bus), which costs about EC$3 – EC$6. Keep in mind that most are usually crammed, and the journey will take a bit longer because they make multiple stops along the way to pick up/let off passengers.
Note: There are no Uber, Lyft, or ride-share services on the island.
ABOUT KINGSTOWN – The City of Arches
Kingstown is the capital and largest city in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, serving as the country’s main port and economic hub. It is affectionately known as “The city of Arches” because of its more than 400 stone archways scattered throughout the city.
The city is home to the historic Botanical Gardens, the oldest in the Western Hemisphere, and Fort Charlotte, built in 1806. Surrounded by lush hills, Kingstown is famous for its architecture, and 18th– and 19th-century buildings. Some such buildings include St. George’s Anglican Church, the Romanesque-style St. Mary’s Cathedral of the Assumption, and the Courthouse or House of Assembly.
The downtown area has a vibrant market and colourful buildings, and it is unique mix of historic Caribbean style, with features such as the Grand Central Market building. A significant part of the city is built on reclaimed coastline land, making it flatter than the surrounding hilly terrain. This allows the sea breeze to flow through the city, offering relief on hot days. Expansion continues with ongoing projects to further develop the downtown landscape.
It offers several convenience stores, restaurants, shops, banks, supermarkets, fish and meat markets, as well as informal street vending in designated areas. The city is not a massive clubbing destination but offers some form of nightlife such as local lounges, casinos, karaoke, and, of course, nightclubs. Some resorts (like Union Island Resorts) and areas such as Villa/Calliaqua (in close proximity to the city), offer live bands and special party nights. Nevertheless, it is not a 24/7 party destination. Therefore, if you are a nightlife buff, it may not be for you.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles Cont...
Moreover, Kingstown was one of, if not the only city, where I truly felt the Christmas spirit among all the countries I recently visited for the Holidays. It was lively during the Yuletide season, with packed stores and supermarkets, shoppers everywhere, and their traditional “Nine-Mornings” (nine days of celebration leading up to Christmas Day) contributing to the atmosphere.
The city and several communities islandwide come alive with music, church services, and community events commencing at 3:00 a.m./4:00 a.m. I would recommend visiting St. Vincent at least ten days before Christmas Day, if you love the Holidays.
From my observation, the presence of street dwellers was almost absent, and I encountered no beggars (at least in the areas I visited). The city is not “spik and span” but fairly clean (as one can gather from my photos). Yes, as in many countries, the market area where the haggling occurs is usually somewhat untidy, and Kingstown is no different. However, on the days (mainly Sundays) when the market was closed, these areas were surprisingly clean.
Notwithstanding, I have seen reports that it is a dirty and polluted city, of which I beg to differ. I have visited many cities worldwide that are half as clean as Kingstown, and they are not seen as such. In many cases, many half-day visitors from cruise ships or Island-hoppers, with limited time to sightsee, visit only the downtown market area and generalize the entire city. After this, they report only in the negative.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles Cont...
ABOUT BEQUIA – The Caribbean’s Hidden Gem
Bequia (pronounced “Bek-way”), meaning “Islands of the Clouds,” is the largest and most popular island in the Grenadines. Its main harbour town is Port Elizabeth.
This laid-back island is known for its pristine beaches, such as the famous Princess Margaret Beach and Lower Bay Beach (my favourite of the two). Bequia has a charming, unpretentious vibe, with no mega-resorts or crowded beaches. Moreover, it is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in the Caribbean.
Its economy revolves mainly around tourism and fishing. Although it has an airport, the most popular and cost-effective way to the island from Kingstown is by ferry (fast and slow ferries). The journey is approximately 45 minutes and costs EC$50 (US$18) round-trip.
Bequia also hosts many popular events, such as the Bequia Music Festival (January) and the Bequia Easter Regatta, a traditional sailing festival, and a popular attraction on the island. This event attracts tourists and locals from neighbouring islands who race wooden boats, then kick back and enjoy the island. Other annual activities include Fisherman’s Day (May/June), the Seafood Festival, and the Breadfruit Festival (both August).
If you are looking to unwind, snorkel, hike, sail, or simply relax away from the crowds, then Bequia is a perfect choice.
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OTHER IMPORTANT FUN FACTS & TIPS ABOUT ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
- The languages spoken – English (official language), Vincentian Creole.
- Official currency – Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD) / EC$. Currency conversion: US$1 = EC$2.70 – (before bank fees).
- St Vincent’ and the Grenadines was originally called Hairouna (Hairoun) or Youloumain/Youroumayn (“Land of the Blessed”), by the Garifuna (people of African and indigenous heritage, also known as black Caribs). Christopher Columbus discovered the island on the feast of “Saint Vincent of Saragossa” in 1498, and renamed it Saint Vincent in tribute to the Spanish saint. However, the Grenadines means “Pomegranates” and may have been so named because of the clusters of small islands.
- “Nine Mornings” is a one-of-a-kind tradition in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and runs from the 16th of December for nine mornings until Christmas. During the days leading up to Christmas Day, locals wake up at about 3:00 a.m./4:00 a.m. to attend church or “Blockos” (street parties) until sunrise.
- Major scenes of the movie, “Pirates of the Caribbean,” featuring Johnny Depp, were filmed in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; “The Curse of the Black Pearl” and “Dead Man’s Chest.” Furthermore, “Port Royal”, set in Walliabou Bay, was the primary location for the films. Additionally, Petit Tabac in the Tobago Cays was also used as the deserted island in “The Curse of the Black Pearl”, where the scene of Jack and Elizabeth being marooned was filmed. These locations, especially Walliabou Bay, remain popular tourist attractions.
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines became an independent sovereign state from the United Kingdom on October 27, 1979.
- The best time to visit St Vincent and the Grenadines for great weather is December to April, when it is driest. However, it is peak season, so hotel rates are highest. The worst time to visit is August to October due to the rainy/hurricane season, with October being the rainiest month. The shoulder season is May to June and July to November, and can have a mix of good and inclement weather. It is also the low travel season when prices are slightly lower.
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a member of the Commonwealth, Caribbean Regional (Caricom), the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and the Community of Latin America and Caribbean States (CELAC).
- The Spiritual Baptist faith originated in Vincent and the Grenadines in the 19th Century. It was outlawed by the colonial government in 1912, but was legalized in 1965. Today, they celebrate May 21st as Liberation Day, commemorating the 1951 court victory.
- Kingstown, the capital of St. Vincent, is called the “City of Arches” because of its Georgian-style architecture and over 400 arches. A quick walk or drive through the city reveals the endless number of buildings with archways. Many are simply pedestrian walkways from one building to the next, but enhance the beauty and uniqueness of the city.
- Agriculture remains the largest contributor to the economy, and many other Caribbean islands rely on its produce. However, one would assume that food crops and fruits would be more plentiful and cheaper in St. Vincent than in the countries where they are exported. Contrarily, it was rather strange that they were either scarce or more expensive.
- Vincentians hardly ever use birth names for family members. They have a “home name” besides the official birth name, and not an abbreviated form of it, but a completely different name. Furthermore, they have a nickname for just about everyone, including friends and strangers. Your name can quickly change from its original to something distinctive about you or your personality. For example, if you smile a lot, they might call you “Smiley,” and if you wink a lot, “Winky,”…you get the idea. Therefore, don’t be surprised if your name changes on your first visit due to your physique, actions, or something you wear regularly. Most times, the name sticks, and they, at times, forget your original name. It is considered a sign of deep affection and familiarity.
- St. Vincent is one of the 28 countries without a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The national bird of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the Amazona Guildingii or (Vincy Parrot). It is a rare, beautiful, multicoloured endangered bird.
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines is home to the active La Soufriere Volcano. After its many years of dormancy, it erupted in 2021, spewing ash clouds as high as 20,000 feet into the air. The eruption caused much damage on the island and displaced thousands of people. Its previous eruption was in 1979.
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines is considered the handmade rum capital of the Caribbean, producing the strongest “drinkable rum” worldwide. Sunset Rum, produced in St Vincent and the Grenadines, is over 84% alcohol proof. Some locals drink it straight, but for the first-timers, one shot will warm your body, help with colds, and may even peel your lips, as in my case.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles Cont...
- Around 5000 B.C., St. Vincent was first inhabited by the Ciboney/Siboney People (Meso-Indians) from South America. However, around the 3rd Century A.D., the Arawaks succeeded them, but not for long, because around the 14th century the Caribs (Kalinago) displaced them.
- St. Vincent is known as the Critter Capital of the Caribbean. This is because its volcanic, nutrient-rich waters support an extremely high concentration of rare and exotic marine life. This makes it ideal for diving, whale watching, snorkeling, and photomicrography (photographs of extremely tiny living organisms). Not only that, but from what I saw, many of its fish stocks for sale at the fish market are not found in many countries and are unique to its waters.
- There are more than twelve distinct varieties of Figs (bananas) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, besides the Cavendish variety that they export. Unlike many islands in the Caribbean, you can find Plantains, Grameshell or Gros Michel (a larger form of banana), Maugh-faugh-baugh or Moko-faw-baugh (plantain-like but with a whiter and softer texture, and it is perfect for soups). Other varieties are Blue Java (bluish tint when unripe and vanilla-like flavour), Manzano (apple banana), Grindy (perfect for soups and fried or for fritters when ripe), and my favourite. Red banana (reddish-purple skin and creamy flesh), Lady Finger or Sucrier (approximately 4-5 inches long with a thicker, firmer, sweeter taste), perfect for banana bread or even fried, Lacatan (a sweet dessert banana), (a sweet dessert banana), and Robusta.
- The Princess Margaret Beach in Bequia, St. Vincent’s sister Island, was renamed in honour of Princess Margaret, the Royal Princess (the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth), who swam there during a visit from Mustique in 1958. It was reported that she once had a home in Mustique (another one of the smaller islands), and it is a “hideaway” for millionaires.
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines was the only Caribbean island that resisted slavery for 100 years (1635 – 1797). While other Caribbean countries fell to European control, for over a century, the Kalinago (black Caribs) fought back, defended their freedom, and refused to be enslaved by the British. The British tried unsuccessfully six times to take the island. However, the Kalinago knew the terrain and utilized guerrilla warfare to defeat them. Nonetheless, in 1977, to solve the problem, the British forcibly deported over 5000 of them to Honduras.
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines has produced many famous regional and international artists. Some such recognized artistes are Kevin Lyttle, known for his global smash hit “Turn Me On”. Soca star Skinny Fabulous, and musician Marlon Roudette; a major Caribbean Pop/Pop-Rock star, known for being part of the duo Mattafix. Other prominent figures include: MaddZart, Alston” Becket” Cyrus (known for one of his popular songs, “Teaser“), Rupert “Swallow” Philo, Skarpyon, Jamesy P (Nookie”), and Problem Child.
- Fancy, a village in the northernmost part of St. Vincent, is one of the very few tribal Villages in the Caribbean. It has about 400 residents, with a small Garifuna population. Dominica is one of the last remaining indigenous Kalinago communities, with an average of 3,000.00.
- Green boiled bananas and salt fish/cod fish, a Vincentian favourite dish, was dubbed the most unique breakfast by BBC Travel in 2024
- Arrowroot is hardly grown anywhere else, with St Vincent and the Grenadines being the world’s largest grower of arrowroot and producer of Arrowroot Flour.
- St. Vincent Botanical Garden is the oldest garden in the western hemisphere. It was established in 1765 and is older than the one in New York by 142 years. Today, there are fruits still bearing on a breadfruit tree since 1793. Furthermore, it is a descendant or sucker of the breadfruit tree, gifted by the British navy captain in 1793. Moreover, the garden has over 600 varieties of plant species.
- Barrouallie was established as the first capital of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. In 1719, French colonists settled in Barrouallie, making it the first European settlement and capital. However, around 1722, Kingstown became the capital when the British took full control of the island.
- St Vincent and the Grenadines celebrate its carnival yearly from June to early July. It is popularly known as “Vincy Mas,” and it is one you should not miss.
- Elizabeth Taylor once owned a villa on the island of Mustique called Les Jolies Eaux, originally built for Princess Margaret (the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth). However, she gifted it to her son, who in turn sold it. It is currently available as a vacation rental.
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the 12th-smallest sovereign country worldwide in terms of square miles.
- The Bequia Easter Regatta, a traditional sailing festival, is another popular attraction on the island. It attracts tourists and locals from neighboring islands who race wooden boats, then kick back and enjoy the island.
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ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
The citizens of St Vincent and the Grenadines are referred to as Vincentians (colloquially as “Vincies”). The population is predominantly of African descent, with smaller communities of mixed descendants of indigenous Kalinago (Carib), Garifuna or black Caribs (indigenous and African slaves), Amerindians, Indians, and even Europeans (mainly Portuguese).
Vincentians are easy-going, fun-loving, helpful, hospitable, kind, religious, and mannerly. In fact, not greeting people with a “hello” or “good day”, especially in the communities, is considered rude. Moreover, they are community-oriented, something quite common in small villages and communities.
The people are very resilient, hardworking, and mentally strong …both men and women. Perhaps it is due to the tireless work ethic passed down from one generation to the next in an agriculture-based economy. It is my honest belief that Vincentians are some of the hardest-working people in the region, especially the women. It is not uncommon to see women in their neighborhoods mixing mortar and laying bricks, pushing a wheelbarrow with agricultural produce, or even painting a house. Lazy is simply not in a “Vincy” DNA, no matter their age.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles Cont...
Additionally, the majority of the population practice Christianity, and it is common to see both men and women making it a priority to attend church on Saturdays and or Sundays. Another noticeable aspect is the strong community spirit of sharing, and the barter system is still very much alive. Whereas, one neighbour who grows and harvests a crop will gladly share it with another, who will likewise share the produce they grow in return.
Despite all this, I must admit that Vincentians in the city do not smile much (reminds me somewhat of Dominicans). As a keen observer, I think I can rationalize why they do not, and also why loitering is uncommon in the city. I sensed that the city residents or those visiting the city are there to either make money or for personal business. They focus on what they went to do and to get out just as quickly, with no time to “Skylark” (a Caribbean term meaning “play around” or wasting time). On the contrary, outside the city and business hours, Vincies laugh a lot, are very “chatty”, and are completely chill during leisure time.
I mention this because I recently saw a video of an island-hopping TikToker stating that Vincentians are hostile and unfriendly. As previously mentioned, many half-day and short-stay visitors judge an entire country based primarily on a brief city visit to the city then leave with nothing positive to say. Therefore, I advise all visitors to stay longer, venture out of the city and into some of the rural areas and communities to get a true feel and essence of the people. As I always say, a half-day or 24 hours in a country is not enough to make an overall judgment.
Overall, everyone was hospitable – including those who took my pictures on the streets, boat, beach, etc.; staff at the Villa Guest House, and everyone else with whom I interacted.
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES SAFETY AND SECURITY
St Vincent’s and the Grenadines is generally safe for visitors. Of course, standard precautions apply; be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables because no country is 100% safe. Therefore, when in crowded areas, be vigilant.
Nonetheless, where gun violence and random murders are concerned, you can feel at ease on the island, as incidents of violent crimes are relatively low. Moreover, for solo travellers, it is generally safe to venture out alone, day or night, but with common sense. Overall, St Vincent and the Grenadines is among the safest Caribbean islands to visit.
It is common practice on the island for some drivers leave their car windows down or doors unlocked to enter a store, and upon returning, all contents remain untouched. Similarly, leaving house doors unlocked to make a quick, nearby run without the fear of robbery is still very common.
During my stay, I encountered no pickpocketing or petty crime, and did not hear of any robberies or other major or minor incidents. Additionally, I observed that some stores, supermarkets, and fast-food restaurants had minimal or no security, and police officers were always visible on the streets. This is a good sign of the island’s overall safety.
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HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?
Prices for almost everything in St. Vincent and the Grenadines range between moderate and expensive. Having visited many of the cheapest destinations worldwide as well as the most expensive, I would say it’s somewhere in the middle. Nevertheless, public transportation is fairly inexpensive (just prepare for loud music, speeding, and crammed buses), but accommodation and restaurants (especially resort types) are expensive. However, it is somewhat cheaper than its neighbour, Dominica, the Nature Island of the Caribbean.
What do I consider a cheap or budget-friendly country? A budget-friendly country is one where, for example, accommodation costs between US$20 and US$40, and US$10 can afford you two to three hearty meals (not junk or fast-food) daily. In St. Vincent, the most basic meal at a local restaurant is a minimum of US$7.
Another example is that a simple souvenir fridge magnet in the city costs a minimum US$2, and a souvenir T-shirt a minimum of U$12. In a moderate to cheap country, these items would usually cost US$1 and between US$4 and US$7, respectively.
However, for the budget traveller trying to save, I recommend staying at an Airbnb, guesthouse, or hostel, which are somewhat cheaper than standard hotels. To save on meals, grocery shop and cook, or eat at the local eateries, which cost less than restaurants at your hotel or beachside resorts. Nonetheless, a visit is not out of the reach of the traveller with a smaller budget if you plan well in advance and travel outside the peak tourist season.
ABOUT ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES FOOD
St Vincent’s cuisine is a flavourful blend of African, Indigenous Caribbean, and European influences. Its dishes lean heavily on seafood, due to its abundant marine life and fish varieties not found in many other islands, because of its unpolluted waters.
For example, fish like Gar Fish, Ballyhoo, Black Fish, and others, including Tri Tri / Chi Chi – a tiny seasonal fish most commonly found in freshwater, or where the river meets the sea in volcanic islands. Furthermore, this rare fish is also found in Dominica (titiwi), St. Lucia (twi twi), and Grenada (tiriti).
Besides this, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has various unusual and delicious dishes, derived from their fresh fruits and vegetables, local root crops, and breadfruit. Below are seven of its many dishes you should try when in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles Cont...
6 MOST POPULAR ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES DISHES YOU MUST TRY
- Roasted breadfruit and Jackfish (National dish) – this is a symbol of the island, dating back to colonial times. This dish begins with the roasting of full, green breadfruit over an open fire until it is totally black on the outside. After this, it is then cut open to reveal a white and fluffy interior. The Jackfish is cleaned and seasoned, then fried and served with slices of breadfruit and pepper sauce.
- Tri Tri Cakes – a batter made with tiny fishes called Tri Tri, flour, salt, onions, pepper, and spices, and fried like a fritter. It is truly a one-of-a-kind treat.
- Madongo/Madungo Dumplings – this gluten-free, sweet dumpling is unique to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This specialty dish is made with arrowroot flour/starch, salt, sugar, nutmeg, sometimes coconut, and usually baked or fried.
- Callaloo Soup – a hearty soup made from dasheen leaves, coconut milk, salted meat, crayfish, or crab, spices, and a variation with some adding tiny dumplings and provisions.
- Ducana – a dumpling-like texture of a dish made with grated sweet potatoes, sugar, coconut, and spices, wrapped and boiled in banana leaves. This dish is both a dessert and a main course, and is sometimes served with stewed fish. Besides, it can be eaten as a dessert, and it is delicious both hot and cold.
- Roasted breadfruit and Buljol – there are various versions of buljol in St. Vincent it is made with codfish/salt fish that was boiled and stripped in pieces, seasoned with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and chives, then they pour hot oil over it and toss it together. The other version is to fry/stew the shredded codfish/salt fish with peppers, tomatoes, onions, etc.
- Before leaving St. Vincent and the Grenadines, be sure to try their locally brewed Hairoun Beer and Sunset Rum (the strongest drinkable rum in the world).
6 MUST-DO/VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
- Fort Charlotte – overlooks Kingstown and is a reminder of the Colonial past of the island and its strategic importance. It was constructed in 1806 as a formidable Fortress and offers a panoramic view of the capital and the Caribbean Sea.
- Visit Mustique, Canouan, Union Island, or Bequia – a ferry ride to one of these islands is a must. Visit the pristine and stunning beaches, and enjoy the luxurious and scenic ferry ride over to one of the islands. Spend a couple of days or do a one-day visit to the upscale islands without having to pay luxury hotel prices. Because once there, you can relax, or swim, snorkel, and enjoy the atmosphere.
- Explore the capital Kingstown (the City of Arches) – visit the 18th and 19th-century churches, St Mary’s Cathedral, and George’s Anglican Church. Soak up the ambience at the Kingstown Market, the harbour side, and admire the buildings with endless arches in the city.
- Visit Dark View Falls – a spectacular double waterfalls (one above the other) awaits you on the Leeward side of the island. The two waterfalls are over 100 feet high and cascade down cliffs into a refreshing natural pool. It is perfect for swimmers, hikers, nature enthusiasts, or those seeking a tranquil getaway. The Falls of Baleine is also another great option, especially for hikers, because it requires some hiking to reach. The single-stage waterfall drops 60 ft. into a crystal-clear natural pool. These two waterfalls are must-sees and are among the numerous waterfalls on the island.
- The Botanical Gardens – the oldest Botanical Garden in the Western Hemisphere. It was established in 1765. It is a large sanctuary showcasing over 600 species of tropical flora from around the globe alongside native species unique to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
- Visit Walliabou Bay – the film location of the Pirates of the Caribbean. Experience the thrill of being in the spot where Johnny Depp (Captain Jack Sparrow) and Kiera Knightley got into character to shoot the movie’s major scenes. Besides, Walliabou Bay was the primary location for “Port Royal” in both “Curse of the Black Pearl” and “Dead Man’s Chest”, and remains a popular tourist attraction, for only EC$5 to enter.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles Cont...
FINAL THOUGHTS
St. Vincent and the Grenadines truly lives up to its name as the Gem of the Antilles. With its dramatic landscapes, rich history, historical architecture, unspoiled waters, unique traditions, and hospitable people. It provides an authentic Caribbean experience. Simply put, it offers a bit of what most other Caribbean islands showcase and more. Furthermore, it should be first on the list of must-see Caribbean islands, especially the beautiful Grenadines.
While not the cheapest destination, it is absolutely worth visiting if you plan wisely, during low-tourist season, and book in advance. Without a doubt, I will highly recommend St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles, to all travellers.
Book now! Travel soon! Enjoy your Visit!
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