| Note: All United States citizens are required to have a valid passport to re-enter the United States.
Size / Population: The Grenadines are part of the Windward Islands. St.Vincent is the largest of the more than 30 islands that comprise the nation, covering roughly 150 sq. miles. The Grenadines extend 45 miles to the southwest, like a kite's tail. The major islands, north to south, are Young Island, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, Union Island, Palm Island, and Petit St. Vincent. The population of St. Vincent & the Grenadines is estimated to be 120,000 with about a quarter of the people living in the capital, Kingstown and its suburbs and 8% on the Grenadines.
Political Status: St Vincent & the Grenadines is a parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth of Nations. Queen Elizabeth II is head of state and is represented on the island by a governor general. Independence was achieved on October 27th, 1979.
Language: English is the official language of the islands, with a decided West Indian lilt.
Currency: The currency of St. Vincent & the Grenadines is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). Major credit cards, traveler's checks and US dollars are widely accepted, although less so on some of the smaller islands.
Electricity: Electricity is generally 220/240 volt, 50 cycle (the European standard) and North American appliances require a transformer and adaptor. Most hotels do have 110-volt shaver outlets.
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time throughout the year (one hour ahead of New York); Daylight Saving Time is not observed.
Communication: The phone system in the Grenadines is modern, and cellular and internet services are available. The country code is 784. Local phone numbers have seven digits. For local directory enquiries dial 118 and for international directory enquiries dial 119. For calls to the US and Canada dial 1 + area code + local number. You can rent a mobile phone for a deposit of EC$50.You then pay as you go using cards which are widely available for EC$10, EC$20 or EC$50. Calls are relatively cheap and you can make and receive international calls.
Drinking Water: The Grenadines has an abundant supply of potable water. Although you can drink the water, most people buy bottled water, which is readily available around the islands.
Transportation: The government sets the rates for fares, but taxis are unmetered and you should always check the fare before setting off. Fares are raised for journeys late at night or early in the morning. Getting between St Vincent & the Grenadines is easiest by boat and air service is also available to some of the islands.
Local Customs: Driving is on the left. It is customary to sound your horn as you round a sharp curve or make a sharp turn. A temporary driving licence, costing EC$50, must be purchased with the presentation of a valid overseas driver’s licence. Tipping: Tip wait staff and taxi drivers about 10-15%. Some hotels and restaurants automatically add a 10-15% service charge to the bill, so check first as it is not necessary to leave more unless you feel the service was above average. Tip porters and bellhops $1 per bag and housekeeping staff $3-$4 per night for good service.
Getting Married: Non-residents wishing to be married in The
Grenadines must be residents for at least one day before a marriage ceremony (civil or church) can take place. Couple must obtain a marriage license (approx. US$185) and present the following documents: Passport; Divorce Decree (if applicable); Death Certificate of deceased partner (if applicable). Please contact a Vacation Express representative for details on resorts offering special wedding packages and to discuss your particular wedding requirements. Our experienced group department will be happy to assist with travel arrangements for all attendees.
|
