• Grenada:
• Society:
• Traveller information

Grenada - Traveller information

Local laws and conventions: British, French and African cultures combine in the local culture of Grenada, and the Roman Catholic Church has a strong influence on the way of life.

Dress is casual but beachwear must be confined to the beach and not worn in town. It is an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.

There are very severe penalties for all drug offences. Visitors must ensure they pack their own luggage and do not carry anything for a third party.

Local people are friendly and courteous. All business correspondence is in English and dress should be formal for business appointments. There are a number of hotels that offer meeting facilities. Office hours are Mon–Thur 0800–1500, Fri 0800–1700. Government offices are generally closed from 1200–1300.

Immigration and customs: Visas are not required for citizens of the EU, USA and Australia for visits of up to three months. Entry requirements should be checked.

Passports need to be valid for six months from the date of departure from Grenada. Visitors are advised to copy the photopage and the entry stamp from their passport and to keep their passport with them at all times or in a hotel safe. Departure tax is EC$50 per person.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by all travellers who have come from infected areas.

Narcotics, arms and ammunition, fruit, vegetables, meat and soil are prohibited imports. Licensed firearms must be declared and a local licence obtained from the police.

Travel within the country: Driving is on the left and visitors will need to purchase a local driving permit (EC$30 for three months) after presentation of a full driving licence. Drivers must be over the age of 25. Four-wheel drive vehicles can be hired and are recommended given the terrain. Many roads are steep with hairpin bends.

Minibuses are a relatively cheap and fast means of travel. Standard fares do exist but it is best to confirm the price with the driver. Taxis are available from the airport and most hotels and are the most efficient means of transport. Buses are inexpensive but slow.

There are regular flights from Grenada to Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Water taxis operate from St George’s and there are daily ferry services to the other islands.

Travel health: It is recommended that visitors have comprehensive travel insurance that includes an air ambulance, as serious medical conditions may require evacuation. Dengue fever is endemic to Latin America so visitors will need insect repellent and loose-fitting clothing to discourage mosquito bites.

Immunisation against Hepatitis B should be considered and rabies is present. Current advice on the latest immunisation requirements should be checked before travel.

Mains water is generally safe and bottled water is widely available. Milk is pasteurised.

Money: Barclays Bank, Grenada Bank of Commerce, Grenada National Bank, National Commercial Bank and Scotia Bank are all present in Grenada. American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard and Visa and other major cards are accepted by most shops, car hire companies and hotels. ATMs are available. Banking hours are Mon–Thur 0800–1500, Fri 0800–1700.

There were 134,000 tourist arrivals in 2004.