St. Vincent Sections Getting There Where To Stay Activities Visitor Tips Getting Married Area Guide Weather Maps Information Request St. Vincent CTW Main	One of the major British Windward Islands, sleepy St. Vincent is just beginning to awaken to tourism. Sailors and the yachting set have long known of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and until recently it was a well-kept vacation secret. Situated about one hundred miles west of Barbados, and nestled between St Lucia to the north and Grenada to the south, the string of islands known collectively as St Vincent and the Grenadines may be physically close together, but vary enormously in character, terrain and appeal. The overall economy of the St. Vincent & The Grenadines revolves around agriculture, with bananas and coconut palms the major cash crops. Tourism is a growing business (especially on St. Vincent), but on the outer islands, smaller crowds, isolated beaches and quiet days are the norm. The main centre of activity is St Vincent , the largest and northernmost of the islands. As well as exploring St Vincent's two distinct coastlines - the rugged windward side and the gentle leeward side - and lush, interior hiking trails, don't miss the opportunity to spend time on the tiny isle of Bequia (Bek-way), just a short ferry ride away, a yachters' haven that also boasts shimmering beaches and a fascinating seafaring history. The less developed and less populated islands of Canouan, Mayreau and Union are all easily reachable by ferry and offer a taste of the unspoiled Caribbean, while Mustique , an island hideaway of the rich and famous, makes for an affordable day trip of swimming and snorkelling, though don't expect to find a cheap place to stay. The uninhabited national park of the Tobago Cays , a cluster of islets which form the eastern point of a triangle between Union Island and Mayreau, are surrounded by coral reefs and unbelievably aquamarine waters and make an excellent excursion from nearby islands. Learn more about each island in the Area Guide. Background Columbus sailed past these islands in 1492, and for another 130 years the thickly forested landscape of St. Vincent deterred any serious European exploration and settlements. For most of the 18th Century, the British, French and Carib Indians fought for control. There were numerous bloody battles, with the British gaining total control in 1790s, as all of the remaining Caribs were shipped to Central America. Autonomy was granted in 1969 and independence in 1979. St. Vincent At A Glance - Language: English, French patois Government: Parliamentary democracy; independent sovereign state within the Commonwealth Capital: Kingstown Size: 389 sq km (Saint Vincent 344 sq km), 84 km coastline. Location: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago Climate: Tropical; little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season (May to November) Electricity: St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a reliable supply of electricity. Electricity is generally 220/240 volt, 50 cycle, except for Petit St. Vincent which has 110 volt, 60 cycle. Most hotels have 110 volt shaver outlets. The standard electrical plug has 3 rectangular pins so remember to pack an adapter. Currency: East Caribbean dollar (XCD) Driving: A temporary driving licence, costing EC$50, must be purchased at the police station on Bay Street, or the Licensing Authority on Halifax Street, with the presentation of a valid overseas driver’s licence. If you have an International Driving Permit you must get it stamped at the central police station. Rentals: There are several major companies available available at the airport, plus many smaller local rental companies.
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