Capital: Saint George's
Location:
Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago (twice the size of Washington, DC)
Background:
One of the smallest independent countries in the western hemisphere, Grenada was seized by a Marxist military council on 19 October 1983. Six days later the island was invaded by US forces and those of six other Caribbean nations, which quickly captured the ringleaders and their hundreds of Cuban advisers. Free elections were reinstituted the following year.
Ethnic Groups:
Black 82% some South Asians (East Indians) and Europeans, trace Arawak/Carib Amerindian
Language:
English (official), French patois
Currency:
XCD
East Caribbean dollar (XCD)
East Caribbean dollars per US dollar - 2.7 (March 2007), 2.7000 (fixed rate since 1976)
Climate:
Tropical; tempered by northeast trade winds
Population:
89,227 (July 2001 est.)
Religion:
Roman Catholic 53%, Anglican 13.8%, other Protestant 33.2%
Medical:
Medical care is limited. U.S. citizens requiring medical treatment may call the U.S. Embassy in St. George's for a list of local doctors, dentists, pharmacies and hospitals. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the U.S. can cost thousands of dollars or more. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Pharmacies are well stocked, and prescription medicine is available, but travelers are advised to bring with them sufficient prescription medicine for their length of stay.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas may face extreme difficulties. Please check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation. Please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death. Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home
Safety:
Grenada is a peaceful island. Terrorism and kidnappings are unknown. There are no extremist groups, areas of instability or organized crime within the island
Traffic Safety:
While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the U.S. The information below concerning Grenada is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Safety of Public Transportation:
Good
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance:
Fair
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance:
Fair
Availability of Roadside Assistance:
Good
Traffic moves on the left in Grenada; therefore, the majority of vehicles are right-hand drive. Grenada's system of paved and unpaved roads (approx. 575 miles) consists of mostly narrow, winding roads. Road surfaces often deteriorate, particularly in the rainy season (June-November) before maintenance work begins. Grenada's road conditions, increasing numbers of vehicles, and sometimes-undisciplined minibus drivers (who provide public and for-hire transport) all oblige caution and reduced speed for safety. For specific information concerning Grenada driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, please contact the Grenada Tourism Board in New York at telephone 1-800-927-9554.
