Grenada
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Dubbed "Spice Island" because of the impressive amounts of nutmeg, cloves, mace, cinnamon, ginger and cocoa grown here, Grenada's dense forests and colorful markets have long attracted visitors to its fragrant shores. Covering this volcanic island are cascading rivers and lush rainforests, plus centuries-old spice plantations and rum distilleries still using traditional methods of production.

All Types of Topography
With a coastline indented by protected bays and beaches, and a rugged mountainous interior with waterfalls, Grenada appeals to adventure seekers whether they're armed with scuba gear or hiking boots. Because of Grenada's remarkable topography, the island experiences climate changes according to altitude.

Horseshoe Shaped Harbor
The pretty, pastel town St George's is often referred to as one of the most stunning Caribbean harbor cities. The yellow, pink, tangerine, lilac and white 18th-century French and Georgian English architecture of Grenada's capital presents as colorful a mix as the busy market street of Carenage. This center of activity where schooners unload their produce is packed with stalls selling exotic fruit, vegetables and of course, spices.

Grand Etang National Park
The azure Grand Etang Lake and nature reserve in the center of the island is situated in the crater of an extinct volcano. Walking through the breathtaking scenery is a chance to see local spice trees and rare tropical flowers that make up the rainforest. The well-tended trails wander around the area's stunning waterfalls, including the rushing Annandale Falls.

Gentle Bay
There are 45 beautiful beaches in Grenada, and all of them are public property. Grand Anse Beach is a smooth 2-mile expanse of white sand curving around the bay, and a favorite of locals and visitors. Located on the western side of the island, the bay is sheltered and calm, making it an ideal spot for water sports.

Geography
Grenada is the largest of three islands that make up this nation of the same name. the others are Carriacou and Petit Martinique, the most southerly of a string of islands stretching to neighboring St.,. Vimcent. Trinidad and Tobago are Grenada's neighbors to the south. Grenada is a rolling mountainous island with its highest peek at Grand E'tang where there is a dormant volcano beneath the lake at the top of the mountain.

History
Grenada was already inhabited by Carib Indians when the Spaniards first saw it. The French eventually settled and found themselves constantly battling the Caribs who sought to drive them out at all cost. Determined not to submit to French rule, the Caribs who remained after the many battles with the French eventually leaped to their death off a precipice in the north of the islands now known as lLeapers hill.

The British and the French later fought for control of the island with the British finally taking control in 1783. Sugar plantations were established and African slaves were brought to work on the island. In 1795, Julian Fedon, a black planter, led the islands' slaves in violent rebellion and took possession of the island. In 1877 the island became a crown colony and 1967 it became a associate state within the British commonwealth. Grenada became independent in 1974.

Economy
Grenada's economy relies heavily on the traditional production of spices and other agricultural crops. However, Tourism is the leading foreign currency earning sector. Grenada's exports include cocoa, nutmeg, cloves, spice, mace, fruits and vegetables, cut-flowers, clothing and fish and fish products. There are a number of manufacturing establishments (clothing) which contribute significantly to the country's economy.

People & Culture
Grenada's population is predominantly black and the official language is English. Grenadian culture is a mixture of British, African, West Indian and French influences. The majority of the people are Roman Catholics. But there is a large number of Anglican, Methodist and Presbyterian churches. The largest festival is carnival which has attractions such as calypso competitions or (Demarche Gras), Carnival Queen competition, steelband competition, Jab-Jab (street revelers who cover themselves with oil and mud bearing coffins, snakes and a whole host of paraphernalia). There is also the midnight carnival jump up which is attended by thousands. Grenadian cuisine has very strong African influences which is evident in their national dish (oil down), which comprises of root vegetables cod fish and salted meat cooked in coconut milk.

Places of Interest
The picturesque hillside town of St. George's the capital surrounds a deep horseshoe- shaped harbor and is widely regarded as one of the prettiest spots in the Caribbean. There are other places of interest which include Fort Frederick (where the ill fated revolutionary leader Maurice Bishop was executed), Fort George, Grand E'tang National Park, Bathway Beach, Tyrell Bay in Cariacou, the Carib leap at Sauteurs and the Spice Gardens at Laura Land.