North and Central America and Caribbean

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see Terrorism abroad.

Crime

Around 25,000 British tourists visit Grenada each year (source: Grenada Tourist Authority) and the vast majority of visits are trouble-free. Grenada is a friendly and welcoming country and overall crime rates are relatively low. Despite the relaxed atmosphere, however, there have been incidents of violent crime including murder. These tend to occur within the local community but can sometimes affect tourists.

You should therefore maintain at least the same level of security awareness as you would in the UK and ensure that your living accommodation is secure. Apply the same measures if you are staying on a yacht.  Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, including beaches, after dark.  Do not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery.  Valuables and travel documents should be left, where possible, in safety deposit boxes and hotel safes.

For more general information see Victims of crime abroad.

Political Situation

Grenada Country Profile

Local Travel

Mini-bus, water taxi and ferry services are operating.

Road Travel

Motorists drive on the left in Grenada.  Driving standards in Grenada are not as high as in the UK and you need to be tolerant of the more relaxed attitude to the rules of the road of many Grenadian drivers.  In some areas, there are open drains at the side of roads; extra care is needed to negotiate potential hazards to tyres and bodywork.  Take particular care at pedestrian crossings, traffic lights and roundabouts even if you think you have the right of way.  Use only designated bus stops to ride the local mini buses; the practice of flagging down buses on busy roads is responsible for many accidents.  Many roads are steep, with hairpin bends and potholes in places; drive slowly and vigilantly.

Mini bus services are operating throughout the island, which provide relatively cheap and fast (often dangerously so) travel within Grenada.  Standard taxi fares exist for most destinations but it is sensible to clarify the fare with the driver before beginning a journey.  Self-drive cars can be hired locally.  Given the steepness of many roads in the mountainous hinterland, automatic four-wheel drive vehicles are popular, particularly following the damage to many roads caused by the Hurricanes.  You are required to purchase a local driving permit (East Caribbean Dollars 30 for a three-month permit) and will need to produce a full UK driving licence to obtain one.

For more general information see Driving abroad.

Air Travel

You will have to pay a departure tax when leaving Grenada. The cost is East Caribbean Dollars 50 per person which can also be paid in US Dollars ($20). For more general information see Airline security.