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

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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

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The small islands stretching from Grenada north towards St. Vincent are a must to visit. Some are inhabited, others not, but all are picture book like: with white beaches and turquoise sea.

The best way to get there is with a three-day or one-week cruise on a private yacht. The sailing yachts are operated by the owner couple who handles the boats, prepares the meals and looks after you. It is like sailing with friends.

Every day you sail two or three hours and then drop the anchor in another paradise like bay. This gives you enough time to swim, snorkel and explore the islands. An unforgettable experience…

www.caribbean-sun.com/Yacht/Yachr_cruise_grenada-Grenadines09.htm

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It's the best chill-out place I have been to. Don't expect lots of tourists or great luxury as most things are pretty basic but just go with the flow. Try some Jack Iron rum but be ready with some water, follow how the locals drink it.

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I stayed here earlier this year. A welcome break from the cliched Caribbean resorts. I stayed in a little blue cottage - a traditional Caribbean house of wood and ornate carvings and pictures by local artists.

It was the ultimate in chill-out, away from it all. No pressure to enjoy your holiday, just take a dip in the sea (about 30 seconds walk). Maybe a bit of diving, sailing, a boat trip with the proprietor and then back to drinking rum swinging in a hammock.

www.carriacoucottages.com

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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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