Population
124,610 inhabitants (2021).
Official Language
The official language of Grenada is English.
Languages Spoken
In addition to English, Grenadian Creole English and Grenadian Creole French are also spoken, known as 'patois.' While these languages are spoken less frequently, they reflect the nation's African, European and indigenous heritage.
Population
Grenada's population is characterised by its diverse origins. Roughly 91% of Grenadians are descended from previously enslaved Africans, who were brought to the country by French and British colonisers to work on colonial plantations. Indo-Grenadians represent the largest minority group, comprising 2.2% of the population. They arrived in Grenada between 1857 and 1885 through indentured labour programs and primarily hailed from the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The remaining population consists of individuals with French and English ancestry and those of mixed descent.
Religion
More than half of Grenada's population identifies as Roman Catholic, while the remaining inhabitants practise various Protestant denominations, including Anglican, Methodist, Seventh-Day Adventist and Baptist faiths. Among the nation's smaller Indian community, Hinduism is the primary religious affiliation.
National Holidays
January 1: New Year's Day
February 7: Independence Day
March 20: March Equinox
Late March to early April: Easter (observed from Good Friday to Easter Monday)
May 1: Labour Day
7th Monday after Easter: Whit Monday
June 16: Corpus Christi
August 1: Emancipation Day
Monday before the second Tuesday in August: Carnival Monday and Tuesday
October 25: Thanksgiving
December 25: Christmas Day
December 26: Boxing Day
December 31: New Year's Eve
Politics
Grenada is a Commonwealth realm, with the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom serving as the head of state. Locally, the nation is represented by a governor-general, however true authority rests in the hands of the head of government, known as the prime minister. The role of the governor-general is largely ceremonial, while the prime minister typically leads the largest political party in parliament.
Grenada's parliament comprises two key components: a senate, composed of 13 members, and a house of representatives, consisting of 15 members. Senators are appointed by both the government and the opposition, fostering a sense of balance, while representatives are elected by the population for five-year terms to ensure democratic representation.
History
Situated within the West Indies in the Caribbean Sea, Grenada occupies a strategic location at the southern extremity of the Grenadines Island chain. The nation encompasses the main island of Grenada, as well as two smaller counterparts - Carriacou and Petite Martinique - and several smaller islands to the north. Although modest in size, Grenada's holds great significance as the 'Island of Spice', due to its notable nutmeg and mace production.
The capital, St. George's, was once inhabited by indigenous peoples from South America prior to European colonization and boasts a rich history. The island first came into European view when Christopher Columbus spotted it during his third voyage to the Americas, in 1498. Columbus made multiple attempts to establish a foothold, but resilient indigenous inhabitants resisted until 1649, when French settlement and colonization took root, lasting for a century.
In 1763, Grenada was eventually ceded to British control under the Treaty of Paris, and British rule persisted until 1974, with a brief interlude of French occupation from 1779 to 1783. In 1967, Grenada was granted full autonomy over its internal affairs, establishing itself as an Associated State. Between 1958 and 1962, Grenada also participated in the Federation of the West Indies, a short-lived union of British West Indian colonies. Finally, in 1974, Grenada obtained independence, forming its own parliament and electing Eric Gairy as its inaugural prime minister. That same year, Grenada joined the Commonwealth of Nations, marking a pivotal milestone in its history.
Etiquette
When it comes to tipping in Grenada, the choice is yours, but it's worth being aware that hotels and restaurants normally include an automatic service charge of around 18% on your bill. In cases where a service charge is not added, it is customary to tip about 10%.
Respect for local laws is crucial. One noteworthy regulation is the prohibition of wearing camouflage clothing, which is applicable to all individuals, including children. Additionally, it's worth being aware that attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community tend to be conservative throughout the Caribbean, including Grenada. As such, public displays of affection may attract unwelcome attention. Being mindful of these cultural nuances will contribute to a more respectful and enjoyable experience during your visit.
Food
Grenada's culinary choices consist of traditional dishes that are brimming with flavour and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Aptly dubbed the 'Spice Island,' Grenada's fields and street stalls are filled with an abundance of fragrant spices, including nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, bay leaf, cloves, turmeric, thyme and lemongrass - all of which form the flavourful foundation for many beloved national dishes.
Prepare your taste buds for a tantalising array of flavours, from fiery stews to succulent, freshly caught seafood, followed by a delightful assortment of desserts. Don't miss the opportunity to sample Grenada's iconic one-pot wonder, Oil Down, a hearty concoction featuring salted meat, dumplings, generous helpings of coconut milk and breadfruit. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in fried and baked saltfish, served with an array of delectable side dishes, such as cheese or sausage. Another local specialty, Lambie Souse (made from conch), is tender, soupy and deliciously succulent. To finish off your meal, try Grenada's Cocoa Tea, some delectable Grenadian fudge or the ever-popular nutmeg ice cream.
Drink
While tap water is generally safe to drink across all three islands, you'll find bottled water readily available at most supermarkets and hotels. Embrace the Caribbean tradition by sipping some rum or rum punch, which are signature beverages in Grenada. Beer enthusiasts will be at home too, with Carib beer on tap (which is brewed in the southwest near Grand Anse).
