Grenada is famous for its aromatic spices and organic chocolate. But did you know Grenada was also named the world’s first ‘Culinary Capital’ by the World Food & Travel Association (WFTA)? Sekou Stroude, Director of Sales, Canada, Grenada Tourism Authority, shares this and more highlights from the Spice Island – including hotel news – in this edition of Take 5.
- Grenada has long been a favourite for Canadian travellers. Do you have any stats relevant to the Canadian market that you can share with us?
“Grenada holds a special allure for Canadian travellers due to its safety in addition to its captivating blend of natural beauty, warm climate and rich culture. From January to May 2024, Grenada welcomed over 10,000 Canadians to the destination, marking an increase in arrivals over 2023 of 14.5%.”
- Grenada’s islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique took a very hard hit from Hurricane Beryl. The islands have been part of Grenada’s tourism strategy, as a tri-island nation, to get visitors beyond the island of Grenada to explore the country’s other treasures. What can you tell us about the status of Carriacou and Petite Martinique and when do you forecast the two islands might be welcoming visitors again?
“Carriacou and Petite Martinique have indeed been significantly affected by Hurricane Beryl, and rebuilding efforts will take time.
“While we do not have a specific timeline for when these islands will be ready to welcome visitors again, we encourage travellers to explore Grenada’s main island, which remains fully operational and open for business.
“Visiting Grenada’s main island not only allows you to enjoy its beautiful attractions and vibrant culture but also supports the broader recovery efforts for our entire nation. Your presence on the main island contributes directly to our economy and helps us in our efforts to rebuild and restore the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.”
- How can travel advisors and travellers best help the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique?
“While Carriacou and Petite Martinique aren’t ready for tourist yet, travel advisors can best help by recommending Grenada as an exceptional travel destination. The main island of Grenada is open for business, and our hotels, major attractions, and the airport are fully operational. By visiting Grenada, travellers can experience the island’s unique beauty and rich culture while contributing directly to our local economy.
“Every visit to Grenada aids in the recovery and rebuilding efforts for Carriacou and Petite Martinique by supporting businesses that play a vital role in strengthening our community. Travel advisors and travellers can make a significant impact by choosing to explore the beautiful island of Grenada now, knowing their presence helps pave the way for the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique to recover and thrive again.”
- Looking ahead to winter 2024-25, what new offerings on Grenada do you want Canadian travel advisors to know about?
“This year, Grenada welcomed some exciting new additions, adding to the island’s portfolio of luxury accommodations.
“Silversands Beach House is a new luxury boutique resort on the island’s Portici Beach. The resort features 28 rooms and suites, some perched on the cliffside and others right on the sand. Each room has large canopies, terraces and indoor-outdoor designs. Guests can indulge in Italian-inspired cuisine at the resort’s restaurant, Azzurro, as well as enjoy amenities from the original Silversands hotel, including the Asian fusion restaurant Asiatique, Grenadian Grill serving fresh island flavour and the renowned rum bar, Puro. Guests can also find their inner calm by the serene pool for before- and after- treatment relaxation, the Silversands Spa offers a menu of traditional massages and inspired face and body rituals. More information is at www.silversandscollection.com/resorts/beach-house.
“Six Senses La Sagesse is set in a picturesque location between the ocean and a tranquil bay on the southeastern coast. This resort features 56 two-level pool suites and 15 villas crafted from natural and repurposed materials. The design emphasizes organic, contemporary interiors with open-plan bedrooms and private pools. Dining at Six Senses La Sagesse highlights Caribbean and South American influences, with a focus on fresh, local produce. The resort includes three restaurants, two bars, a salchichoneria, bakery, and unique destination dining experiences. The spa, overlooking the lagoon, offers a peaceful retreat with soothing scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and palo santo. Learn more at www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/la-sagesse/.”
- What is the ‘Grenada difference’? What talking points do you recommend for travel advisors who want to showcase Grenada as a vacation option for their clients?
“Pure Grenada, the Spice of the Caribbean, is a hidden gem with unspoiled beauty offering a lifestyle so pure and authentic that you will feel instantly renewed.
“The Pure Grenada experience beckons visitors to its 40 white sandy beaches including the world-famous Grand Anse Beach, 15 breathtaking waterfalls, six chocolate factories, four rum distilleries, and more than 30 unforgettable dive sites, including the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean ‘Bianca C’ and the World’s First Underwater Sculpture Park.
“Famed for its aromatic spices and organic chocolate, Grenada was also named the world’s first ‘Culinary Capital’ by the World Food & Travel Association (WFTA). The World Travel & Tourism Council ‘Safe Travels’ approved destination is committed to protecting travellers’ health and safety while allowing them to tailor a beyond-the-ordinary experience of a lifetime.”
Information about travel to Grenada can be found at www.puregrenada.com.
