On the Caribbean island of Grenada, the balmy tropical air is filled with the aromatic scents of nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and ginger. Known as the Spice Isle, the island has been the world's second largest producer of nutmeg. Centuries-old spice farms and plantations are found throughout Grenada. 

The capital city of St. George's is often described as the most beautiful and picturesque in the Caribbean.

Its horseshoe-shaped natural harbor is surrounded by pastel-colored buildings with red tile roofs and hillside houses overlooking the bay. 

Known as the Carenage, the harbor is home to colorful fishing boats, yachts and cruise ships. Here, local fishermen announce the day's catch with the traditional blowing of a conch shell. Along the waterfront are shops and restaurants. Experience the pulse of the island with a visit to Market Square -- located in the heart of the city, this vibrant and bustling market is where you'll see the bounty of the land as local vendors display and sell their colorful produce of fruits, vegetables and spices. Here you can also find a variety of locally made handicrafts .

Grenada has a pristine coastline of white sandy beaches and a mountainous interior of lush tropical rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic crater lakes. An abundance of beautiful flowers and plants, including many rare species, grow on the island. Grenada has been a participant at the world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show and has received both gold and silver awards for its stunning displays. 

The Arawak Indians inhabited Grenada before they were displaced by the warlike Caribs. In 1498, on his third voyage, Christopher Columbus caught sight of the island, and named it Concepcion, Spanish sailors later renamed it Granada because of its resemblance to the lush, verdant hills of Spain. The Caribs strongly resisted the Europeans in their attempts to settle and colonize the island. It wasn't until 1651, that the French eventually took control and established a colony; they called it Le Grenade. It is believed that the last remaining Caribs jumped from a cliff to their death rather than surrender. The French named the spot "Le Mourne de Sauteers," or "Leapers Hill."

The French colony existed for more than a century until Britain seized possession. The Treaty of Paris formally ceded the island to Britain in 1763. In a series of "tug of wars," the island reverted to French rule for four years. Britain regained power in 1783 under the Treaty of Versailles and Grenade became Grenada. 

Grenada became an independent nation in 1974 and Sir Eric Gairy became the first Prime Minister. In 1979, the government was overthrown by a Marxist coup while the PM was out of the country and the new party leadership headed by Maurice Bishop took office. In 1983, the small island nation of Grenada became the focus of international attention, when factions within the ruling regime led to another coup d'etat, with severe consequences. Maurice Bishop was placed under house arrest, but freed by his supporters. Within hours, he and several members of his administration, along with some civilians lost their lives. Just days following the unrest, USA and Caribbean forces invaded Grenada and handed power over to the Governor General. Elections resumed in 1984 and the country functions today as a democratic society. 

In 2004, hurricane Ivan made landfall on Grenada and caused enormous and widespread devastation. Several people died, and many others lost their homes and businesses. About 90% of the nutmeg trees were destroyed. 

With a determination to weather the storms, and the outpouring of international support, the island is making steady progress in its recovery efforts. Despite the turbulent years, Grenada has produced many remarkable men and women who have made significant contributions throughout the Caribbean and the world. It has emerged as an island that still captivates visitors to its beautiful shores. 

About the Author:

Copyright 2007. Island Living Digest Magazine. Marcia Niles is the Editor/Publisher of Island Living Digest Magazine, an online publication that celebrates the beauty and charm of the Caribbean.