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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 secret.
You visit St. Vincent for its lush beauty, and the Grenadines for the best
sailing waters in the Caribbean. Unspoiled by the fallout that mass tourism
sometimes brings, islanders still treat all visitors courteously. British
customs abound, but with a distinct West Indian flair. |
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South of St. Vincent, the
small chain of islands called the Grenadines extends for more than 64km
(40 miles). The islands have such romantic-sounding names as Bequia, Mustique,
Canouan, and Petit St. Vincent. You can explore Union and Palm Islands,
and Mayreau as well. A few of the islands have accommodations, but many
are so small and undeveloped that they attract only beachcombers and stray
boaters. |
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Though these specks of land
may lack natural resources, they're blessed with white-sand beaches, coral
reefs, and their own sleepy beauty. If you don't overnight in the Grenadines,
at least try to visit one on a day trip, and enjoy a picnic lunch on your
very own isolated beach. |
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| The fascinating blend of
African, Indian, Asian and European influences are expressed in the lifestyles
of the people; through religion, sport, music, cuisine, arts and crafts.
The annual carnival (Vincy Mas') is a showcase for the best in calypso
singing, steelpan orchestras, soca music and masquerade costumes. Cricket
and soccer matches are played and watched with a passion. From the mist-shrouded
heights of a steamy volcano to the crystalline depths of a sparkling reef,
Saint Vincent & the Grenadines have something to offer everyone - history,
legend, and natural wonders. Be sure to take some time to do a little exploring
on your own when you visit these enchanted isles. |
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The capital city of Kingstown
is located in the southwest part of St. Vincent, hugging a mile-wide swath
of land on Kingstown Bay, backed up by a ring of green hills and ridges.
As the only deep-water port on the island, the dock area on Upper Bay Street
is the centre of activity for this island capital that boasts a population
of about 25,000 people. Just west of the deep-water wharf are many shops
and boutiques which feature colourful batik, many hand-crafted items, and
bookstores, as well as some duty-free shops. Like many Caribbean capitals,
much of the action, colour, and excitement of the island is found in the
Market Square at the weekend market. |
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