Grenada Key Facts

Location

Caribbean, Windward Islands.

Time

GMT - 4.

Area

340 sq km (131 sq miles).

Population

90,739 (2009).

Population Density

266.9 per sq km.

Capital

St George’s. Population: 33,734 (2006).

Geography

Grenada is located in the Caribbean. The island is of volcanic origin and is divided by a central mountain range. It is the most southerly of the Windward Islands.

It's agriculture is based on nutmeg - one third of the world's nutmeg supply comes from Grenada - cocoa, sugar cane and bananas. Tropical rainforests, gorges and the stunning beauty of dormant volcanoes make this a fascinating and diverse landscape with some of the finest beaches in the world. Carriacou and some of the other small islands of the Grenadines are also part of Grenada.

Government

Constitutional monarchy.

Head of State

HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor-General Carlyle Glean since 2008.

Head of Government

Prime Minister Tilman Thomas since July 2008.

Recent History

Four political parties allied to form the New National Party (NNP) in 1983. The NNP won the general election in December 1984 and dominated Grenadian politics until the 2008 election, when the National Democratic Party (NDP) came to power on a vote for change. It continues the NNP tradition of close relations with the US, while also seeking economic assistance from other countries.

Language

English. French African patois is also spoken by some of the population.

Religion

Roman Catholic 53%, Anglican 14%, smaller Protestant denominations 33%.

Electricity

220 volts AC, 50Hz. Three-point plugs are standard.

Social Conventions

Local culture reflects the island's history of British and French colonial rule and, of course, the African cultures imported with the slaves - African influence is especially noticeable on the island of Carriacou in the Big Drum and in Grenada with the Shango dance. The Roman Catholic Church also exerts a strong influence on the way of life. Local people are generally friendly and courteous. Dress is casual and informal but beachwear is not welcome in town.
Need some holiday inspiration?
Tired of the same holiday destination?
Fresh ideas are just one click away...
Sign up for our newsletter
Be the first to hear about the coolest destinations and the latest travel trends. Plus, competitions, holiday inspiration and amusing facts, delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up for our newsletter
Advertisement

Travel Deals

Advertising features
Travel Partners
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Spot the holiday killer - Protect yourself from malaria. Before you travel, find out if your holiday destination is in a malaria zone.

Quick links