Grenada is known as ‘the spice island’ because of the production of several different spices including nutmeg, mace, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and allspice. Cocoan and chocolate bars are also important products. It is a good place to buy fresh spices to take home.Two of the interesting animal species on Grenada are the Mona monkeys and the green iguanas.
Mona monkeys are primarily found in the Grand Etang Crater Lake region on the east side of the island which can be visited through an organized tour. A beach vendor had one of these cute and mischievous creatures that he let climb onto my shoulder for pictures. I fell immediately in love with ‘Spicy Girl’ as she settled on my shoulder eating a grape.
Green Iguanas are found on the Sandals Resort as well as other locations on the island. They grow up to 6 feet in length, head to tail. They have a very calm disposition and can be seen sunning on rooftops during the day and occasionally on the paths around the resort. They are used to seeing people and are not particularly perturbed when someone walks by.
Some of the available tours on Grenada are shopping and sightseeing tours as well as powerboat, kayak, river tubing, jeep, bicycle and catamaran excursions. You could go snorkeling at the famous underwater sculpture park or visit Grand Etang Crater Lake and meet the Mona monkeys or perhaps go deep sea fishing. There are museums, forts, historic sites and craft markets to explore.
One thing you should definitely do is sample the Grenadian national dish – oil down. Despite it’s name it is not an oily concoction. It is a delicious combination of various vegetables and spices simmered in coconut milk. Breadfruit and taro leaves are some of the more popular ingredients. Various meats or seafoods can also be added.
Your trip to the spice island with its myriad attractions and warm and inviting people will be a wonderful and unforgettable experience with much to do and see.
