St. Vincent sits in a constellation islands and islets known as the St. Vincent Grenadines of which it is the largest. The appearance of the group looks like a group of emeralds on the surface of the water. Originally a French domain, St. Vincent was ceded to the British in the 18th century. The atmosphere of the island is very, very relaxing with the scenery helping to make this a wonderful vacation spot.
Overview of St. Vincent
Kingstown - St. George's Cathedral has very colorful stained-glass windows and an attractive churchyard. The Cathedral of St. Mary's is a blend of Gothic, Boroque and Romanesque styles of architecture. Overlooking the capital is the 18th century Fort Charlotte which has many of its cannons still in place. In 1765 the Botanic Gardens were established here which means that they are the oldest in the Americas. On the grounds of the gardens is a museum about the Caribbean's with a special section on the Arawaks.
Other points - Out side of Kingstown is the Marriaqua Valley which is very attractive. There are many plantations to be found here including banana, nutmeg, cocoa, coconut, and breadfruit. At Barrouaille and Layou are a number of picture rocks carved by the Caribs. A climb up Mt. Soufriere (4,000ft) is quite an adventure that is rewarded by a spectacular sight. The volcano last erupted in April 1979.
Swimming in and around the islands is just simply wonderful. Snorkelers and divers will not be disappointed by what they will find. Villa Beach and Indian Bay are some of the best on the island of St. Vincent. Deep-sea fishing is very popular in the Grenadines.
Capital: Kingstown
Population: 107,300
Area: 133 square miles
Language: English
Time: +1 hour from New York
Electricity: 220/240 Volts AC. 50 Hz
Geography: The islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines are located in the Windward Islands about 20 miles south of St. Lucia and 100 miles west of Barbados. St. Vincent is highly cultivated and has a coastline which is varied having rugged and rocky areas as well as black or white sand beaches. The smaller 32 Grenadine Islands have total area of only 17 square miles and have white coral sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.
International Airport
The airport is about 7 miles from the city of Kingstown. Taxis are recommended.
Tipping: 10% is customary when the service charge is not included in the bill. Porters should be tipped EC$1 per bag.
Shopping: Shops re open from 8 am to 12 noon and again from 1 pm until 4 pm Monday through Friday. On Saturdays, shops stay closed in the afternoon and do not open on Sundays.
Food and Drink: Caribbean fish is very popular and is a must here. Otherwise restaurants do offer a number of menus including Asian, American and European.
Social: The natives on St. Vincent are quite friendly and accommodating. As on other Caribbean islands, swim wear off the beach is considered in bad taste and may well result in you not being served or assisted if so clad in shops or restaurants.
Business: Business is informal on St. Vincent. Ties for men are recommended even though the local may not do so. Jackets only in the evening. Women should never wear shorts. Dress must be "smart" and no use of dark colors.
Banking: Banks are open from 8 am until 1 pm Monday through Thursday. On Friday s banks remain open until 5 pm. There are no Weekend hours.
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar
Money Exchange: If you have US$ it will not be necessary to exchange currency as US$ are readily accepted.
Credit cards: Visa, Master Card, American Express and Diners Club
Climate
The average temperature runs from 74 to 88 F. The driest time of the year is from January to April and rains the most from June to October. The interior of the country gets over 150 inches of rain per year while down on the coast the amount is only half of that. | 