Local Knowledge
One destination, 32 picture-perfect islands in the sun – just the name St. Vincent and the Grenadines evokes visions of exotic island life. Located in the very heart of the Caribbean Sea, in the pristine Lesser Antilles, this archipelago of paradises found, offers visitors uncluttered, barefoot elegance. This is a place where you are sure to leave all of the stresses of 'the real world' at home and enjoy a true escape.
The 'big' island of St. Vincent and its capital city Kingstown, offers a charming and lively experience, complete with cobblestone streets, boutique shopping and café hopping, along with a lush tropical rainforest full of eco-adventures waiting to be experienced. Once out in the Grenadines though, everything changes. There are 31 islands here – home to idyllic beaches, coral reefs and turquoise lagoons – each one more tranquil than the next. Places with names like Bequia, with its fine sands, and Mustique, exclusive and secluded; these islands have also long been popular for sailors, and continue to be today, with island-hopping opportunities that are hard to resist.
Things to Know
- Accepted Currency: East Caribbean dollar (EC$) •Capital: Kingstown
- Airports: E. T. Joshua Airport (SVD) - it is also common to fly into St. Vincent through Barbados
- Language(s) in Use: English is officially spoken on the islands, though Vicentian Creole English is also spoken by locals
- Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST) •Dialing (Country Code): + 784
- Climate in General: January - April is the driest time of year on St. Vincent. Average temperatures run from 27-30°C with nightly lows ranging between 22-25°C. Also, it's important to note that The Grenadines islands tend to be slightly warmer and drier throughout the year than mainland St. Vincent.
- Driving: Visitors are required to attain a temporary licence using their valid, domestic driver's licence for identification
