St. Vincent and the Grenadines are a handful of dream islands in the Lesser Antilles that you’ve probably seen as the scene of the Pirates of the Caribbean, here there are very few visitors, in 2013 there were about 7o thousand, although the Grenadines are really a paradise. In the heart of the Caribbean, loved by stars and celebrities of international fame, the 32 islands that make up the archipelago of St. Vincent and the Grenadines – former British colony in the Lesser Antilles – seem made especially for those who love to experience the sea by boat. Constant wind, calm sea and crystal clear bays make it the dream destination for every sailor, but also for those who prefer the comfort of a catamaran or motorboat cruise.
It is precisely on these islands that the most authentic charm of the Caribbean resists, those not yet reached by mass tourism. A holiday in this archipelago, suitable for couples and families, means exploring intact places and unspoilt landscapes, as well as discovering the traditions of its inhabitants. From annual festivals full of music and colour, to Caribbean cuisine – typical local Creole dishes include callaloo soup, shellfish and bul jol, a dish based on fish and the fruit of the bread tree – to local handicrafts: there are many ways to discover the cultural richness of the "land of the blessed".
St. Vincent is the largest of the 32 islands that extend in an arch to the south to Grenada. More in detail, the main islands, from North to South, are St. Vincent, Young Island, Bequia (the largest and most populated island in the Grenadines, where most of the nightlife takes place), the sophisticated Mustique (among its regulars, Mick Jagger and David Bowie), Canouan, Tobago Cays (the five tiny islands that have become a protected national park), Mayreau (with its beautiful Saltwhistle Bay), Union Island, Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent. Vincent, a beautiful private island with one very elegant resort. But for those who don’t like to spend their holidays day and night on the water, there are luxury resorts on the islands. Few, expensive and exclusive. In a picturesque setting with a blue background, all peace and silence.
If you are looking for a bit of cultural inspiration, you will find them especially in Bequia, famous for its artisan workshops specializing in the construction of life-size and scale boats and for the srimshaw, an ancient decoration technique originally practiced on whale bones and now adapted to other materials such as ivory. In local markets and fairs you can find objects made from the raw materials of the islands: bamboo, palm leaves, flower petals that turn into hats, baskets, jewelry and bags. Bring them as souvenirs or as presents to friends. Don’t miss the galleries that host photographic exhibitions and oil paintings by local artists, which represent an unforgettable land full of colors.
