Celebrating Christmas in Grenada, the spice island makes sense. The Christmas market in St Georges the capital is infused with the smell of cloves, allspice and nutmeg. The locals are so enthusiastic about baking Christmas treats that when we visited the shops had sold out of flour. Best of all both Grenada and the smaller island of Carriacou resound to the sound of festive Parang music, a joyful mix of Latin inspired music featuring the cuatro guitars and mandolins and the local shak shak. Locals flock to midnight mass and then enjoy a feast of baked hams, sorrel punch, black cake and spiced rums. All this and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
St Georges, Grenada
www.carriacouparangfestival.com
Google map: bit.ly/ueBmSz
Grand Etang Lake glimpsed through the mist of the forest reserve is beautiful and atmospheric. Take a drive up there from St. George's and go to see the Annandale waterfalls as well.
Google map: tinyurl.com/2cmwrc5
The local minibus-type taxis/buses are the best way of getting around and about in St George's - and in fact, all of Grenada. They have set routes, and come along every few minutes - a great way to meet the locals and get a flavour of the island. They are especially good for going to and from Grande Anse beach area.
All over Grenada
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