Destination: Grenada

Words by Jennifer Stein

Known as the “Spice of the Caribbean,” Grenada is one of the most beautiful and lush islands of the Caribbean. Much of the land is unspoiled, with tropical rainforests, golden beaches and a plethora of waterfalls. Located in the southeastern Caribbean, the warmth and sincerity from the local people is immediately evident. In Grenada you feel more like a guest and less like a tourist. Locals care about how their island is perceived, wanting guests to enjoy the spices and food Grenada has to offer. According to Edwin Frank, Grenada Public Relations Officer, “Agriculture is so important because we want guests to eat locally grown food, not imported.” Being a world leader in the production of spices enables guests to enjoy the freshest nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and cocoa possible.

As a destination for weddings and honeymoons, Grenada offers many options to suit couples’ needs and wishes. Spice Island Beach Resort exemplifies a luxury resort, yet is also family-friendly. It’s situated directly on Grand Anse Beach, which is ranked among the top beaches in the Caribbean. Upon arrival, your senses are immediately stimulated with the picturesque vistas and rhythmic sounds provided by your beachfront surroundings. The contemporary-Caribbean décor verifies you are in for an authentic experience. Enjoy complete privacy with one of their 1200 square foot pool suites, complete with a plunge pool, shaded porch and flower-filled landscaping.

Your wedding can take place on the sands of the Grand Anse Beach, in their beachside bandstand or amongst their lush gardens found within the resort. Nerissa Hopkin-Pitt, Director/Deputy General Manager, recommends, “Walk around and decide where on the property you would like to get married. Anything you want to achieve for your wedding, we’ll work with you to make it happen.” They’ve been known to help plan private dinners on the beach, coordinate special arrangements with their spa and help grooms surprise their bride with a candlelit bath after their wedding.

LaSource Hotel on Pink Gin Beach is another gem. With the waves gently crashing against the shore, it just doesn’t get much more beautiful than this for a wedding ceremony. The hotel boasts luxury oceanfront views, a 17-room spa and offers many water and land sports such as scuba diving and sunfish sailing to 9-hole golf all with personal instruction. “We want to make your wedding special from use of our spa to catering to your every wish for your ceremony-we’ll do it all,” says Denis Thomas, Guest Services Leader. We agree!

Stay

Spice Island Beach Resort

www.spiceislandbeachresort.com

LaSource Hotel

www.theamazingholiday.com

Eat

The Flamboyant Hotel & Villas-Beachside Terrace Restaurant

www.flamboyant.com

Oliver’s Restaurant-Spice Island Beach Resort

www.spiceislandbeachresort.com

Aquarium Restaurant

www.aquarium-grenada.com

La Belle Creole at the Blue Horizon Garden Resort

www.grenadabluehorizons.com

Victory Bar and Grill

http://www.portlouisgrenada.com/

Play

Diving- considered some of the best in the Caribbean. The waters surrounding Grenada offer thrills and excitement for all skill levels.

Concord Waterfall: accessible by road and ideal for swimming. There’s an area next to the waterfall to change into your suit if you’ve been traveling throughout the day.

Annandale Falls: excellent stop for enjoying its scenic beauty. The pathway to get to the waterfall is breathtaking. Take a swim in the fresh, crisp water to add in the adventure.

Shopping- visit the capital city, St. George’s, for the local fruit and vegetable market. Also stop in and visit Art Fabrik Boutique-for the fashion enthusiast. They also sell gifts, art and hand painted batik. www.artfabrikgrenada.com

Snorkeling- visit Grenada’s Marine Park, which can be coordinated through Aquanauts Adventures. Their experienced snorkel guides will assist you so you can take in all the beauty of Grenada’s reefs.

Private Boat Charter-charter your private trip for relaxation and sightseeing. Book for a half or full day and explore Grenada from the sea.

Grand Etang National Park- a major tourist attraction and definitely worth the stop! It’s situated in a lush rainforest and has many trails for couples who enjoy hiking or are nature lovers.

Dougaldston Spice Boucan- learn from Catherine D-Joseph on how their spices are harvested and enjoyed by guests. Spices can also be purchased.

Rest and Relax-with over 40 white sand beaches Grenada is an ideal destination for couples seeking to relax and get away from it all. Enjoy!

Getting Around

Mandoo Tours

http://www.grenadatours.com/