TravelTalkOnline Forums Travel and Vacation Forums Southern Caribbean travel insights for Grenada

Hi all, I am looking for lots of insights into vacationing in Grenada. We've been to St Thomas, St John and loved them but are looking for a place less likely to be hit by a hurricane this fall (and a bit less expensive). We had a trip planned to Bonaire last Feb but had to cancel at the last minute due to work, so now are looking to try again. Bonaire is a bit too difficult to get to, so HELP!
Things we are looking for: safety, clear water for swimming, snorkeling and diving, outdoor activities (kayaking, hiking, mt biking), sandy beaches for relaxing, nice people, good food, good weather. We typically stay in a home instead of a hotel as we like to cook most meals and hang out together (2-3 couples). But, I know nothing about Grenada and Bonaire was great because it has it's own talk forum with loads and loads of information. So, hoping this group can help me!
Thanks! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Groovin.gif" alt="" />

Grand Anse Beach is a nice spot for a first visit to Grenada, beautiful 2 mile long beach, easy access to bars and restaurants and on the local bus route. We always stay at the Grand Anse Beach Palace Hotel, it is located at the north end of the beach so it is quite there but only a 5 minute walk to the craft/spice market area. Many of the rooms are self-catering and they also have multi room units up to 5 bedrooms which would be good for couples traveling together. I recommended it to my neighbor, who just came back last month and she loved it. Lots of opportunities for hiking, Seven Sisters Falls being my favorite, and Grand E'Tang Park has many trails you can follow on your own.
It is a very safe island, the locals and tourist intermingle and the people are some of the friendliest you will meet in the Caribbean. Kim and I have been to local rum shacks well past midnight and walked back to the hotel without any concerns or problems.
St. Georges is a quaint town with lots of activity, history and local culture; also one of the best open markets in the islands.
If you need any specific information just ask as Grenada is my favorite island.
A couple things to also consider, Grenada does not have a lot of nightlife, party bars and such except for weekends so if you are into the "club scene" you will probably be disappointed. Also depending on how much time you have you might want to consider a side trip to Carriacou for a few days.

I haven't been to Grenada in a while, but my trip reports are on my webpage here: Islandtime. Also, if you visit the Fodor's travel forums, there are several posters who have been to Grenada and posted their trip reports, one of whom is "ejcrowe" -- look her stuff up.

Bottom line for me, even though I haven't been in a while, is that while difficult and potentially expensive to reach, Grenada is a gem. An unusual combination of lush rain forest and white (and golden and grey and black) beaches; spice plantations and rum distilleries; friendly people and terrific local cuisine. And not overly expensive once you get there.

Grenada is great. We were there last year for 10 days and loved every minute. Get a guide book. We used one written by Paul Crask and published by Brandt. I'm sure if you google it up you'll find it. Lot's of valuable info and it makes the anticipation and time on island 100% better.

Great input and I will get the travel guide. How is Sept for vacationing? I know it is the rainy season, but is it more like many islands where it rains for an hour and then the sun comes out or is the rainy season downpours for all day and potentially many days in a row?
I know, predicting the weather is crazy, but looking for some insights here.
Don't know where I read this, but read that the beaches are not as beautiful (turquoise waters and swimmable) as places like Aruba. True?
We are not into the nightlife thing. Just want island atmosphere, beautiful water, great drinks and sunshine with nice people. Water sports and hiking and/or biking would be an added plus!
thanks!!
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It is a wonderful island. That time of the year is great.

Contact Nick at www.spiceislevillas.com

Love Grenada. We have visited almost year since about 2002, and were actually married there on a lovely beach (La Sagesse). Not sure of your budget, but we have loved staying at Mt. Cinnamon. They are apartments or villas, have kitchen, washer/dryer, beach, pool, etc. September is low season, so be sure to ask for the very best deal when booking. Mt. Cinnamon is in the Grand Anse area - which is truly a perfect location. You can walk to the grocery store; and catch a $1 bus into town. If you search the forum, you will find my trip reports listed. Good luck with your travel planning!