“When I see the smiling faces of Canadians, when they discover Saint Vincent and the Grenadines they say “Wow!” And I’m really happy that we can offer the warmth, the hospitality of Vincentians, and all of the beautiful scenic sights that we have to offer.” said the Hon. Carlos James (Minster of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture, Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines) to Open Jaw during an on location interview, at the newly opened Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is made up of 32 islands in the southern end of the Caribbean Sea between St. Lucia (to the north), Grenada (to the south), and Barbados (to the east).
I had only been on the island of Saint Vincent for 24 hours when I had the opportunity to speak with Minister James. It had quickly become apparent to me that one never just said “Saint Vincent”. The Grenadine Islands are just as important to the people who live here as the main island is. And while the recovery from Hurricane Beryl in the north part of Saint Vincent is basically complete (where the newly opened Sandals resort is located), the southern part of the island and many of the Grenadine islands were more severely damaged; some parts devasted.
Still, James is positive that SVG will recover from this latest set back.
“We are definitely open for business. That’s a really important part of our resilience. Tourism has always been one of the key driving forces of our economy.”
Canada is an important target market for James, and he encourages travel advisors to let their clients know why they should be visiting SVG.
“There is this excitement that has developed between the Canadians and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. It’s one of our fastest growing markets and we’re quite excited to see the depth of what we can do together. Canadians and Saint Vincent are developing as wonderful tourism partners.” said James.
“It’s a multi-island state and every island its own unique experience, from the black sand beaches of the main island, the waterfalls, hiking the volcano, and then sailing to the Grenadines like Bequia. It’s just so lovely there.”
We had the opportunity to take the “Bequia Express” ferry over to visit the island (pronounced Beck-way). The relaxed island vibe is felt the minute you step off the ferry, and a quick tour of the island reveals the laid-back warmth of the people (population about 4,000) and the places within it. A favourite stop, and one we took, is Princess Margaret Beach, so named due to that royal’s love of the location. Jack’s Bar on this beach is a perennial favourite with yachters and visitors as they wade into the warmth of the Caribbean Sea, cocktails in hand. I know my daiquiri and coconut shrimp paired well with the turquoise waters.
But Bequia isn’t the only island worth visiting. The island of Mustique is famous for its star-powered homeowners, including Canadian rocker Bryan Adams and the Rolling Stone’s Mick Jagger. And there are many more to discover.
Sailing through the islands is a popular experience for visitors to the area, as they island hop from island to island, beach to beach.
“The Grenadines marine path is one of the most world-famous marine paths within the Americas, and you look at Saltwhistle Bay, which was rated one of the top 10 beaches, globally.” said James.
Pirates of the Caribbean fan? The Curse of the Black Pearl was the first of five Pirates of the Caribbean movies shot on Saint Vincent. The set of Port Royal was built at Wallilabou Bay, and the dock and the façade of the port town were left for tourists to discover.
SVG seems to have it all.
An easy flight from Toronto, Air Canada currently lands in Saint Vincent once a week, and that will double in October for the winter season. James is excited about the opportunity for growth and for the chance to tell Canadians why they should visit.
“We’re happy to welcome more Canadians to Saint Vincent.” said James. “We have a special relationship with Canada that we want to cement.”
I know that made me smile.
