Grenada is an archipelagic country in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, directly south of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and north of the island of Trinidad and the mainland of South America. It consists of the main island of Grenada and several smaller islands like Carriacou and Petite Martinique, with the main island being known as the 'Island of Spice' since it produces large amounts of nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and cocoa. The country was once part of the United Kingdom until it gained independence in 1974, and it is known for tropical rainforests, volcanic mountains, a warm climate all-year round, waterfalls and beautiful beaches, along with a culture that blends African, French, British and Caribbean influences, and a economy that's heavily dependent on tourism, agriculture and education.
Its capital, St. George's, is located on the southwestern coast of the main island. It is considered as one of the most picturesque capitals in the Caribbean, with a horseshoe-shaped harbour, colourful buildings, and steep hills overlooking the sea. The city is Grenada's main port, commercial centre and cultural hub. Home to important landmarks like Fort George, the Carenage waterfront, its markets that sell spices and crafts, and Grand Anse Beach that is located nearby.
Hurricanes, floods, landslides and volcanic activity.
For driving and traffic offences, a on-the-spot ticket is issued by authorities for initial infractions of most offences, which is usually a fixed fine worth hundreds in EC$ that must be paid within a certain period (e.g., 31 days). Failure to pay will result in a court appearance where a much higher court fine, alongside/or other penalties, will be issued. Common driving offences in Grenada include:
Other violations to keep in mind;
The official language of Grenada is English, but Grenadian Creole English and Grenadian Creole French are also spoken.
Driving is done on the left-hand side of the road, like in the UK. Drivers must be at least 18 years to drive, but 21 or older to rent. Some rental companies would require drivers to be at least 25 to rent instead of 21, held a valid driving licence for at least 1 – 3 years, and/or to pay an extra daily surcharge if they are under 25. A International Driving Permit (IPT) isn't required by law for UK drivers. However, a temporary Grenadian driving licence is needed, which can be arranged by your car hire company or at he Central Police Station in St. George's, but keep in mind that some rental companies may still ask for an IDP as part of their policy.
Main roads in Grenada are usually paved, but expect narrow roads, potholes, steep hills, sharp bends and speed bumps, alongside unlit rural roads at night, assertive driving from locals, and pedestrians walking on the roadside. Rental cars are usually recommended for travelling around the island, and if you are planning to do so, avoid driving at night if you're unfamiliar with the island.
Most stations in Grenada only sell petrol and diesel, and prices are regulated by the Grenadian government, making them equal for all stations across the island. Many stations accept card payments, but is advised to carry cash — Eastern Caribbean dollars or US dollars — as backup, especially in remote areas.
Most stations are full-service, meaning an attendant will usually fill the tank for you, and stations in and around St. George's and Grand Anse tend to have the longest opening hours — generally 6am to midnight, while rural stations may close earlier. Before heading to remote areas, make sure to top-up, and even though you're never far from a station — about 21 miles apart, make sure not to let your tank run too low. Also, most rental companies have a full-to-full policy, meaning you collect the rental with a full tank, and you must return it with a full tank or face refuelling charges.
School zones will have lower speed limits applied when children are present.
The legal BAC limit is 0.08%.
Mandatory for all occupants.
Children under 5 must use an appropriate child safety seat or booster seat. Booster seat are recommended for children aged 5 to 12.
The following below are not legally required for drivers to carry, but many rental companies include some of them:
It is best to check if these items are included before setting off.
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