I am thrilled to introduce you to Grenada, the Isle of Spice. This tiny gem of the Caribbean consists of three islands – Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique – located in the Eastern Caribbean with a total land area of 344 square kilometers.

This issue of Diplomat will take you on a colourful historic tour of the Isle of Spice which includes a rich legacy of Native Indian, Spanish, French, African, East Indian and British influences that combine to make the food, language, culture and architecture of Grenada an incredible experience for all.

The introduction of new crops in the late eighteenth century has made Grenada famous as one of the world’s premier spice producers. Our vast array of spices includes nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, turmeric, cloves, mace, tonka beans, pimento and bay leaves. Grenada contributes to the world economy as the second largest producer of nutmeg.

Since attaining political independence from Britain on 7 February 1974, this vibrant state has made great strides in realising state-of-the-art communications facilities, a modern international airport and cruise ship terminal along with a range of accommodation from family-run to large hotels. Some of the world’s largest airlines, including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines and Delta, also provide direct non-stop services to the Island.

As you read this special country report, you will discover that Grenada offers a sound investment climate, the capacity for sustainable development and a varied tourism destination that has made us a leader in eco-tourism. We are committed to preserving the natural beauty of the islands for citizens and future generations.

Our maritime assets continue to prosper with numerous bays and sheltered anchorages, making Grenada one of the main yachting centers in the world; while our clear waters and pristine coral reef attract divers from around the globe.

Grenada’s monthly festivals will ensure that visitors have something on their calendar daily. The Rainbow City Festival in the north of the island and the Carriacou Regatta both present a valuable opportunity to witness the island’s unique culture, as do the fruits of Carriacou’s renowned boat-building industry – with locally built boats exhibited and raced on the first weekend of August – followed by Carnival ‘Spice Mass’, during the second weekend of August. The weekly Fish Friday held in the western fishing town of Gouyave and the annual Cricket Classics held during the month of October add to the list of activities.

As a member of the British Commonwealth, the relationship between Grenada and the United Kingdom remains strong and we continue to work together in regional and international affairs on a variety of subjects such as the extremely relevant topic of climate change.