Ins and Outs of SVG 2011 Edition

Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & the Grenadines

2 0 1 1 10th anniversary edition

An Essential Guide to St. Vincent • Bequia • Mustique • Petit St. Vincent • Canouan • Mayreau • Palm Island • Tobago Cays • Union Island insandoutsofsvg.com

Credits

Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & the Grenadines 2011 The Official Publication of the St. Vincent & the Grenadines Hotel and Tourism Association PUBLISHED ANNUALLY BY

Miller Publishing Co. Ltd PROJECT MANAGER

Christine Wilkie ADVERTISING SALES

Christine Wilkie Liz Cordice PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR

Our Cover Artist Vonnie Roudette holds an MA from Manchester Metropolitan University, UK. She spent 3 years at Kyoto Arts University in Japan researching traditional aesthetics and worked for Japanese designer, Issey Miyake before returning to the UK to work as a freelance designer and part time art lecturer. Her recent series of expressive paintings about the natural landscape are accompanied by a wonderful book called The Nature of Belonging which is full of observations about local life and culture with an environmental message, and reveals much about quintessential Caribbean island culture.

Vonnie’s design experience is wide and varied. She is a certified farmer and manager/design director of Fibreworks Inc., a craft factory in rural St. Vincent established in 1997. In 2003 she was trained in natural building techniques in Columbus, Ohio. She is a visual artist, a creative education consultant, coordinates Hand2Earth, a rural educational sustainable lifestyles youth project in Penniston and teaches A-level Art and Design at St. Vincent & the Grenadines Community College.

Her work is currently exhibited in the Curator’s House at St. Vincent’s Botanical Gardens in Kingstown.

Vonnie can be contacted at Tel: (784) 494-4040 or e-mail wemustbemad@gmail.com Miller Publishing Co. Ltd. Edgehill, St. Thomas, BB22118, BARBADOS Tel: (246) 421-6700 e-mail: chrisw@millerpublishing.net www.insandoutsofsvg.com www.BarbadosBooks.com While every care has been taken in the compilation of information contained in this guide, such information is subject to change without notice. The publishers accept no responsibility for such changes.

© 2011 MILLER PUBLISHING CO. LTD. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher.

2

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Janelle Bryan PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS

Lyn Armstrong Suneeta Simmons ARTWORK & LAYOUT

Christine Wilkie Sally Miller Tao Howard DESIGN & WATERCOLOURS

Neil Barnard at Eightzeronine Design COVER PAINTING

Vonnie Roudette PHOTOGRAPHERS

Wilfred Dederer Jon Farmer Kedisha Compton Kay Wilson Zénon DISTRIBUTION

Ins & Outs is distributed throughout St. Vincent & the Grenadines by the SVG Hotel & Tourism Association.

Copies of the publication are placed in hotel rooms, villas, charter yachts and visitor information centres.

Ins & Outs is also available through the SVG Tourism Authority and the overseas offices of the Ministry of Tourism in London, New York and Toronto.

Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & the Grenadines can also be viewed online at www.insandoutsofsvg.com

Contents

General

St. Vincent

Bequia

Mustique

Southern Grenadines

4

6-9 10 11 17 26 86 140

Calendar of Events Maps Fast Facts Property and Investment Chartering Weddings Accommodation Guide

33 39 43 47 55 61

History Island Adventures Beaches and Anchorages Shopping and Services Restaurants and Nightlife Accommodation

71 77 82 86 89 92 95 99 103

History Island Adventures Beaches and Anchorages Weddings Shopping and Services Art and Craft Restaurants and Nightlife Accommodation Villa Life

111 111 112 113

History General Info Beaches and Anchorages Accommodation and Restaurants

115 119 123 127 128 130 133

Canouan Tobago Cays Marine Park Mayreau Private Island Resorts Palm Island Private Villas Union Island

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Bequia Music Fest

Bequia Easter Regatta

Wilfred Dederer

Wilfred Dederer

January Public Holiday New Year’s Day - Sat. 1st Full Moon Wed. 19th 16th Annual Mustique Blues Festival: 26th Jan - Feb. 9th Contact: Basil’s Bar, Tel: (784) 488-8407 Bequia Mount Gay Music Fest 27th Jan - 30th Jan Mustique Blues Festival in Bequia Fri. 28th Thurs. 27th 8.30pm - Frangipani Hotel 13-piece Elite Steel Orchestra Fri. 28th 8.30pm - De Reef, Lower Bay Mustique Blues Festival in Bequia with Dana Gillsespie & "The London Blues Band", Dino Baptiste, Jake Zaitz, Mike Paice, Jeff Walker, Evan Jenkins, Jamie Little. Featuring: Marcus Malone, Ian Siegal, Lewis Cohen & Paddy Milner.

Sat. 29th 1.00pm Bequia Beach Hotel, Friendship Beach Jazz and Blues Jam Session by the beach Bequia Blues Band, Jim Coleman, Stan & Cora and... Final line-up to be announced.

Sat. 29th 8.30pm - De Reef, Lower Bay Caribbean Clash - Toby Armstrong & Mount Gay Blues Band, Arturo Tappin, Nexcyx... Final line-up to be announced.

6

Sun. 30th 12.30pm - De Reef Lower Bay Blues, Jazz & Rock Jam, special guests with the Honky Tonics - Jan & Louis, Jim Coleman, The Country Relatives, Bob & the Bequia Blues Band; from SVG: Denzil Bacchus Blues Band; from Barbados: Look Hooz Left, The Mount Gay Blues Band... Final line-up to be announced.

Contact: Bequia Tourism Association Tel: (784) 458-3286

February Primary School Performing Arts Festival A month long festival of song, dance, drama and poetry featuring the children of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Mustique Blues Festival continues until Feb. 9th Full Moon Fri. 18th

March National Heroes & Heritage Month A month of tribute and celebration to the heroes of our nation Public Holiday National Heroes Day - Mon. 14th

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

SVG Blues and Rhythms Festival (TBA) Contact: SVG Tourism Authority, Tel: (784) 456-6222 Full Moon Sat. 19th

April Gospel Fest Month Zoned showcases in song, music, dance, poetry, comedy and weekend concerts featuring regional and international artistes Contact: Ministry of Culture, Tel: (784) 451-2180 30th Annual Bequia Easter Regatta Apr. 21st - 25th Contact: Bequia Sailing Club, Tel: (784) 457-3649 34th Annual Easterval, Union Island Apr. 21st - 25th Weekend Festivals: Boat races, sports & games, calypso competition, beauty pageant Contact: Union Island Tourist Board, Tel: (784) 458-8350 Public Holidays Good Friday - 22nd Easter Monday - 25th Full Moon Sun. 17th Lobster Season Closes April 30th

Fisherman’s Day - Bequia Wilfred Dederer

Vincy Mas

Calypso Competition

Kedisha Compton

Kedisha Compton

May

July

August

Public Holidays Labour Day - Sun. 1st Mon. 2nd

Carnival Monday/J’ouvert July 4th J’ouvert - an early morning street jump-up with a satirical twist. T-shirt bands participate in a great street jump-up in the afternoon and into the evening

Emancipation Month

Carnival Tuesday July 5th Mardi Gras Mas Bands parade on stage at Carnival City (Victoria Park) competing for the Band of the Year Award and then on to the streets of Kingstown Contact: Carnival Development Corporation Office, Tel: (784) 457-2580

Breadfruit Festival August 1st - 31st The festival takes place in different communities throughout SVG. A variety of dishes and drinks made from breadfruit are exhibited. Local cultural activities are also part of the festival Contact: Ministry of Culture, Tel: (784) 451-2180

Full Moon Tue. 17th

June Canouan Regatta June 9th - 13th This festival consists of boat races, sports and games, calypso competitions, street jump and beauty pageants Contact: Mr. Carlos McLaurean, Commodore, Canouan Sailing Club, Tel: (784) 458-8197 Vincy Mas Celebrations June 24th - Jul. 5th Vincy Mas festivities include King and Queen of the Bands, Junior Carnival, Miss SVG, Miss Carnival, Steel Band and Calypso competitions and street parades Public Holiday Whit Monday - 13th Full Moon Wed. 15th

Bequia Annual Fisherman’s Day Competition July 9th Contact: Bequia Rotary Club, Tel: (784) 458-3248 Canouan Carnival July 28th - August 1st Contact: Mr. Carlos McLaurean, Commodore, Canouan Sailing Club, Tel: (784) 458-8197

Emancipation Day Festivities August 1st Events to commemorate the abolition of slavery

Fashion Caribbean TBA Contact: Monique Tash, Tel: (784) 456-2555/(784) 493-0793 Full Moon - Sat. 13th

Full Moon Fri. 15th

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

7

Lobster Season runs from 1st September - 30th April

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Alex Williams

Wilfred Dederer

September

November

December

Dance Festival Month Contact: Ministry of Culture, Tel: (784) 451-2180

National Tourism Month Theatre Arts Festival Contact Ministry of Tourism, Tel: (784) 457-1502

National Nine Mornings Festival December 16th - 24th Nine Mornings is a unique Vincentian festival which occurs nine mornings before Christmas. Vincentians awake in the early hours of the morning and partake in a range of activities, among them sea baths, dances, bicycle riding and street concerts. In the rural areas, the final morning of the festivity usually ends with a steel band ‘jump-up’ Contact: Ministry of Culture, Tel: (784) 451-2180

Lobster Season Opens Thurs. 1st Full Moon Mon. 12th

October Independence Cycling Competition October 26th - 27th Public Holiday Independence Day - Thu. 27th

Vincy Flavours November 19th Culinary and Bar and Beverage Competitions and Exhibitions Contact: SVG Hotel & Tourism Association, Tel: (784) 458-4379 Email: svghotels@vincysurf.com Full Moon Thu. 10th

Full Moon Tue. 11th

Public Holidays Christmas Day - Sun. 25th Boxing Day - Mon. 26th Tue. 27th New Year’s Eve Sat. 31st Midnight Fireworks Display over the Harbour in Port Elizabeth, Bequia Full Moon Sat. 10th

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The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

insandoutsofsvg.com

heritage shop beaches watersports car hire history flights real estate weddings art & craft nightlife dine restaurants diving villas hotels island hopping sail festivals visit learn events stay enjoy sightseeing honeymoons relax spas

St. Vincent

St. Vincent & the Grenadines

St. Vincent Porter Point

KEY

*

Young Island

Baleine

Union Island

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Richmond

Richmond Vale Camp Richmond Vale

Chateaubelair Bay

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Rabacca Dry River

Mt. Brisbane

Belmont

Point Jupiter Hyambook Bay

L‘Anse Mahaut Bay

Point Moody

Wallilabou Bay

Mahaul Bay

Corbec Bay

Wallilabou Anchorage Hotel

Dry Point Mount Royal Cloey Hole Trump International Billy Hole Golf Club at Raffles Resort

L‘Ance Guyac Bay

Little Bay Whaling Bay Ramean Bay Cato Bay

Keartons Bay

Barrouallie

Caratal Village

Road

Point de Jour Quarry Point Canouan Resort Godahl Bay Point Siz Windward Bay Grand Cois

East

Coast

Charlestown Charles Bay Bay Ocean View Inn Grand Bay Tamarind Beach Hotel & Yacht Club Glossy North Glossy Bay Bachelor’s Hill Hall Bay Taffia Bay Nen’s Bay Riley Bay Charlestown South Glossy Bay Lukee Point Canouan Airport Jim Barbruce Bay Taffia Frie Hill nds Hill Friendship Point L‘Islot hip Bay Canouan Baleine

P Layou

*Vermont

New Ground

Petit Byahaut Resort

ST. ANDREW

*

Resort & Casino

Buccament Bay Resort

Clare Valley

Pembroke

Questelles Point

Valley Camel

ST. GEORGE Dumbarton Meek Riley’s

Green Hill Camden Park Lowmans Bow Wood

Camden Park Bay Lowmans Bay

Fort

∆2,413ft

D’Chateau Guest House Mt. St. Andrew

Questelles Chauncey

Anse Cayenne Questelles Bay

Greiggs

*Montreal

P

Grant’s Bay

Biabou

Biabou Bay

Hopewell Peruvian Spring Vale

Mesopotamia *Arawak

P

Welcome

Redemption *BotanicalQueens Drive Ashburton

South Union Bay

Cedars

Compulsion

Colonaire Bay North Union Bay

Lower Lomans

Francois Gardens Queensbury Retreat Bridgetown Penniston Golden Grove Mesopotamia Emerald Valley Rillion Hill Dubois

P Colonaire

Sans Souci

Forest Reserve

Vermont Nature Trail

Ferret Leveth

Mustique

Byrea Diamond

∆3,181ft

Grand Bonhomme

Mt. Wynne Bay

Black Point

* Black Point Tunnel

Mangrove

South Rivers

Hermitage

ST. PATRICK

Peter’s Hope Bay

Layou Bay

Canouan

Grand Sable Chester Cottage

Spring Village

Three Acres

Ferdies Footstep Guest House

CHARLOTTE

P

P Gordon Yard Wallilabou *Wallilabou FallsGrove Keartons Grove

P

Princes Bay

The Grenadine Estate

Langley Park

P Georgetown

Cumberland Rose Hall Mangaroo

Orange Hill

Rabacca

Chapmans

ST. DAVID

Cumberland Bay

Overland Village

Orange Hill Estate

Sou

∆3,058ft

Chateaubelair Richmond Peak Troumaka Bay Rose Troumaka Sharpe’s Bank Coulls Hill *Petit Bordel Falls Coulls Bay

Petit St. Vincent

London

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Morne Garu Mountains

Fitzhughes

Thirteen Stones P (Petroglyphs)

Sandy Bay

Tourama Point

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Tobago Cays Palm Island

Jetty

Soufriere Mountains ∆1,234m/4,048ft

Airport

Mayreau JettyJetty Jetty

New Sandy Bay Village

Larikai Bay

Petit Mustique Canouan Jetty

Sion Hill Old Sandy Bay P

Tro’s Loups Bay

Anchorages

Mustique

Point Village

Tucker Bay

Recreational Facilities

Petit Nevis Ile de quatre

*Falls of

Places of Interest Church Hospital

Bequia

Comnantawana Bay P *Owia Salt Pond Owia Bay

Fancy

Baleine Bay

P Police Station

Evesham Akers

Rock Carvings

Montrose Gardens Tropic Breeze Hotel Calder Argyle Site of new International Airport Orange Victoria Belair scheduled for completion in 2011 Grove Edinboro Park Fairhall Victoria Yambou Beach P McKies Dorsetshire Charlotte Village Mt. Pleasant Fountain Hill Hill P Sion Vigie Hill Arnos E.T. Joshua Airport Vale Stubbs Choppins Glen Cane Garden Stubbs Bay Rose Greathead Bay Indian Bay Cottage Villa Ratho Brighton Village Ribishi Point Mill

*

Kingstown

North Point

Point Lookout

Honor Bay The Cotton House Hotel Mustique Watersports Endevour Bay The Cotton House Spa Plantain Bay

Bird Sanctuary Airport

Lovell Village P Fishermen’s Village/Fish Market

Basil’s Bar & Boutique

Ramier Bay L‘Ansecoy Bay

Calliaqua Bay Young Island Resort

Brooks Rock

School Library Tennis Courts

Fort* Duvernette

The Mustique Company Mustique Equestrian Centre

P

Prospect Blue Lagoon

Calliaqua

Rutland Bay

Brighton Bay

Johnson Point

Lime Kiln Bay

Jetty

Marconi Bay

Firefly Britannia Bay

Simplicity Bay

Man Point

Old Plantation Pasture Bay

Lagoon

Bequia

Rabbit Island

Lagoon Bay

L‘Anse Chemin

Black Sand Bay

Gelliceaux Bay

Wilks Rocks

Deep Bay

Bullet Cay Bullet Bay Bends Bay Diable Point Shark Bay Brute Point Sal Bay

Obsidian Bay

Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary * Park Bay Crescent Beach Inn Industry Bay Spring

Maritime Museum

Union Island

Spring Bay Cinnamon Northwest Point Garden Firefly Plantation Hotel Site of Hibiscus Apts Hamilton Devils Table Hamilton Fort Ocar Anse La Coite Traveller’s Inn Ferry Dock Frangipani Hotel Rocky Bay * Port P Gingerbread Hotel Hope Bay Estate Elizabeth The Village Apts Admiralty Bay Hope Bay Mount Bamboo Chute Resort Pleasant Kingsville Apts Princess Margaret De Reef Apts B e lle P Low Up The Old Fort Lower Bay per oint er B Big Mount Pleasant Bay igh Lower Bay ht t Belles Rocky Bay Ravine Bay Moonhole Big Cay Dock Bequia Museum West Cay Friendship Friendship Bay Resort Sta Dock Adams Bay Paget La rk R Bay Island Inn Apts Playing avin Farm Pompe Field e Saint Hilaire Dock J.F.Mitchell Airport Point Whaling Station Sugarapple Inn Friendship Garden Apts Taylor’s Apts Petit Nevis Bequia Beach Hotel & Blue Tropic Bequia Beachfront Villas

* *

Bloody Head Bloody Bay Mount Olympus ∆640ft

Richmond Bay

Ruin

Ruin

Jetty Mount Taboi

Fort Irene

Ruin

Ashton

∆1,000ft

Mount Cambell ∆790ft

Belmont Bay Big Sands Ruin

Ruin Ruin

Miss Irene Point

Big Sands Hotel

Ruin

Chatham Bay

Jetty

Ashton Harbour

Frigate Island

Jetty Jetty Jetty

Fort Hill Ruin ∆400ft Jetty

Clifton Market Jetty

Point Lookout Airport

Jetty Jetty

Green Island Newlands Reef

Clifton Harbour

Coast Guard Station

Petit Bay Clifton Beach Hotel Marine View Hotel/Apts.

Kings Landing Amerindi

Happy Island

Anchorage Yacht Club Bougainvilla Hotel Wind & Sea Sailing Charters Erika’s Marine Services SVG Tourism Bureau Clifton Cottages Lambie’s Guest House St. Joseph’s House

Queensbury Point

© Miller Publishing Co. Ltd. All rights reserved

*

Ile de Quatre

Battowia

Balliceaux

fastfacts Located in the southern Caribbean Sea and forming part of the Windward Islands, St. Vincent and the Grenadines comprises some 30 islands that extend 72 km (45 miles) to the southwest like a kite’s tail. The main islands include Young Island, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, The Tobago Cays Marine Park, Union Island, Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent.

St. Vincent is located at Latitude 13° 15’ N, Longitude 61° 12’ W and situated 160 km (100 miles) west of Barbados, 120 km (75 miles) north of Grenada and 40 km (24 miles) south of St. Lucia. St. Vincent is the largest of the more than 30 islands that comprise the nation, covering roughly 390 sq. km (150 sq. miles).

The population is approx. 105,000. About 25% of the labour force work in agriculture, 10% in industry and over 50% in services, including tourism. Agricultural products include bananas, plantains, coconuts, sweet potatoes, spices, citrus and mangos; a small number of cattle, sheep, pigs, goats are reared; and there is a small fishing sector. Industries include food processing, cement, furniture, clothing and starch.

St. Vincent has a mountainous interior with La Soufrière, an active volcano in the north, rising to 1,220 m (4,000 ft.) as its highest point. The island has a sheltered and indented coastline on the Leeward coast. St. Vincent is roughly 29 km (18 miles) long and 17.7 km (11 miles) wide and has an area of 344 sq. km (133 sq. miles), while the Grenadines comprise an additional 44 sq. km (17 square miles). Bequia covers 19 sq. km (9 sq. miles), Mustique is 5 sq. km (1.9 sq. miles), Canouan 7.5 sq. km (3 sq. miles) and Union Island is 8 sq. km (3 sq. miles). The yearly average daytime temperature is 27°C (81°F). The coolest months are between November and February.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth of Nations.

Queen Elizabeth II is head of state and is represented on the island by a Governor-General. Independence was achieved on October 27th, 1979. Parliament has 15 elected representatives and four senators who are appointed by the Prime Minister and two on the advice of the Opposition Leader. The parliamentary term of office is five years, although the Prime Minister may call elections at any time. The legal system is derived from English common law and statutes. There are 11 courts in three magisterial districts.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

11

Dan Christaldi

St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Scaramouche with Palm Island in the background and PSV in the distance

Official Ports of Entry St. Vincent: Chateaubelair, Wallilabou & Kingstown Bequia Union Island Canouan Mustique

Clearance Procedures The following are clearance procedures for arriving by yacht into St. Vincent & The Grenadines.

Visiting yachts arriving in the territorial waters of St. Vincent & The Grenadines must proceed directly to a designated port of entry to complete clearance formalities before stopping at any other anchorage.

With Q flag hoisted, boats should dock or anchor in the port of entry and only the captain should go ashore taking along: Three crew lists Clearance from the previous port Passports Ship's papers Boats must also clear out at one of the official ports before departing St. Vincent & The Grenadines. Private vessels must pay a Cruise Tax to enable unlimited stay in St. Vincent & The Grenadines waters, and charter boats must be in possession of a St. Vincent & The Grenadines Cruising License.

Further information can be obtained from St. Vincent & The Grenadines Customs & Immigration.

Immigration All arrivals into St. Vincent and the Grenadines must present a valid passport and Visas are required from nationals of the following countries before entering St. Vincent and the Grenadines: China, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Iran and Nigeria. A return or onward ticket is required of all visitors. Work permits are available from the Prime Minister’s office on Bay Street, Kingstown.

12

Airports There are five airports in St. Vincent and the Grenadines with E.T. Joshua Airport in Kingstown being the largest. The four smaller domestic airports are located in Bequia, Mustique, Canouan and Union Island. These airports are serviced by LIAT - Star of the Caribbean, SVG Air and Mustique Airways. A departure tax of EC$40 is payable by all passengers leaving the country. The opening of the new international airport at Argyle in St. Vincent is scheduled for 2012.

Seaport and Shipping Kingstown has a natural deepwater harbour with a wharf to accommodate two oceangoing ships. There are regular services between St. Vincent and the major ports in North America, Europe and the Caribbean. A new container park at Kingstown and a new container port at Campden Park have been completed.

Camouflage Clothing It is illegal to wear or import camouflage clothing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Electricity St. Vincent and the Grenadines have a reliable supply of electricity which is generally 220/240 volt, 50 cycle, except for Petit St. Vincent and Palm Island which have 110 volt, 60 cycle.

Most hotels have 110 volt shaver outlets. The standard electrical plug has 3 rectangular pins so remember to pack an adapter.

Money The currency of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). Notes are issued in denominations of $100, 50, 20, 10, and 5. Coins are issued in denominations of $1 and 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents. The exchange rate is tied to the US dollar at a rate of $2.68.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Fast Facts How to Get Here St. Vincent & the Grenadines is reached by air from North America and Europe through six major gateways – Barbados, Grenada, Martinique, St. Lucia, Puerto Rico and Trinidad, with daily connections to Union Island, Canouan, Mustique and Bequia.

British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Air Canada, Air France, Caribbean Airlines, US Air, Jet Blue, Westjet, Condor, Gol Intelligent Airlines and Air Jamaica all provide excellent service to the gateways; while LIAT - Star of the Caribbean, SVG Air, Grenadine Air Alliance, Trans Island Air, Executive Air and Mustique Airways all provide a convenient connecting service from the gateways.

Flight time to St. Vincent is approximately 35 minutes from Barbados; 30 minutes from Grenada; 45 minutes from Martinique; 20 minutes from St. Lucia; 2 hours 20 minutes from Puerto Rico.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has an information desk in the Arrivals Section of Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados (Tel: 246-428-0961) open daily from approximately 1:00pm until the last flight to St. Vincent departs. Personnel are on hand to assist travellers in making connections to their final destinations.

Education The Vincentian educational system is modelled on the British system. School is compulsory up to age 15 and government schools are free at the primary and secondary levels. Post secondary education is provided through polytechnics and Kingstown Medical College, a campus of St. George’s University (Grenada), located near Kingstown. The University maintains affiliations with hospitals for clinical programmes in the United States, the United Kingdom and the Caribbean.

Roads There are 580 km (360 miles) of surfaced roads with the Leeward and Windward highways traversing either side of the country. Country roads can be narrow with steep inclines and declines, so exercise caution.

Telecommunications St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a state of the art fibre optic digital telephone system. Internet, boatphone, cellular service, telex, telegraph and facsimile access are also available. The international area code is 1-784 followed by the local seven-digit number. Phonecards are available through outlets islandwide as are phonecard booths. International Direct Dialing (IDD) service is available to most destinations in the world and international calls can be made using your credit card (MasterCard, Visa, Discover, AT&T and Bell are accepted) by dialing the operator.

There are six public hospitals, including Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (formally Kingstown General Hospital), and Maryfield Hospital, Lowmans and Bequia Casualty Hospital, Port Elizabeth, and three privately owned hospitals. Community care is provided by 38 outpatient clinics located throughout the country. Each clinic serves about 3,000 people and is easily accessible. Health centres are well staffed and provide a wide range of services, including midwifery, family planning, immunization and emergency care. St. Vincent has a mental health centre and a home for the elderly. The average life expectancy is 68 years for men and 72 years for women.

Christine Wilkie

Health

The bamboo bridge at Dark View Falls in St. Vincent

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

13

St. Vincent & The Grenadines St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Tourism Offices St. Vincent Ministry of Tourism Upper Bay Street, Kingstown St. Vincent & The Grenadines Tel: 784-457-1502 Fax: 784-451-2425 e-mail: tourism@vincysurf.com www.svgtourism.com www.discoversvg.com St. Vincent & The Grenadines Hotel & Tourism Association P.O. Box 2125 E.T. Joshua Int’l Airport, Kingstown St. Vincent & The Grenadines Tel: 784-458-4379 Fax: 784-456-4456 e-mail: svghotels@caribsurf.com office@svghotels.com www.svghotels.com

Barbados St. Vincent & The Grenadines Barbados Desk Grantley Adams International Airport Barbados Tel: 246-428-0961

United States 801 Second Avenue, 21st Floor New York, NY 10017 Toll free: 800-729-1726 Tel: 212-687-4981 Fax: 212-949-5946 e-mail: svgtony@aol.com

Canada 333 Wilson Avenue Suite 601 Toronto, M3H 1T2 Toll free: 866-421-4452 Tel: 416-630-9292 Fax: 416-630-9291 e-mail: svgtourismtoronto@rogers.com

United Kingdom 10 Kensington Court London, W8 5DL England Tel: 207-937-6570 Fax: 207-937-3611 e-mail: svgtourismeurope@aol.com

14

Getting Around

By Taxi The government sets the rates for fares, but taxis are unmetered and you should always check the fare before setting off. Fares are raised for journeys late at night or early in the morning. The average fare from Indian Bay into Kingstown is approximately EC$25. Tipping is suggested at 10% of the fare. You can also hire taxis to take you to the island’s major attractions. Expect to spend EC$40 to EC$50 per hour for a car holding two to four passengers. Sam’s Taxi & Tours (784-456-4338) is one of the more popular choices for sightseeing and getting around in general. Their drivers are courteous and friendly and offer entertaining commentary as you explore the island.

By Car Driving in St. Vincent & the Grenadines is on the left. While initially driving on the narrow, twisting roads is a bit of an adventure, you will quickly begin to enjoy the challenge and start driving like a “Vincy”. There are limited road signs, but locals are usually quite happy to point you in the right direction. Remember to sound your horn as you make the sharp curves and turns. Avis (784-456-4389) has an office at the E.T. Joshua Airport and the majority of local companies will be happy to pick you up at your hotel or at the airport. Rent and Drive (784-457-5601 or rentanddrive@vincysurf.com) and David’s Auto Clinic (784456-4026) in St. Vincent and Sunset Tours Moke & Jeep Rentals (784-458-3782) in Bequia offer similar rates and terms.

By Bus Flamboyantly painted buses travel the principal roads of St. Vincent, linking the major towns and villages. The central departure point is the bus terminal at the New Kingstown Fish Market. Fares range from EC$1 to EC$6 (US.40¢ to US$2.20). Minibuses, which stop on demand rather than at bus stops, run frequently between Kingstown and the popular hotel areas of Indian Bay and Villa. The number of vans starting in Kingstown and running to Owia or Fancy in the north is limited. The best way is to take the early bus to Georgetown and try to catch one of the two vans running between Georgetown and Fancy (EC$10). To get to Richmond in the northwest take a bus to Barrouallie and seek onward transport from there. A day trip to Mesopotamia (Mespo) by bus (EC$2.50) is a worthwhile experience.

Driver Licences A temporary driving licence, costing EC$100, must be obtained from the police station on Bay Street or the Licensing Authority on Halifax Street, with the presentation of a valid overseas driver’s licence. Your car hire agent will assist you with getting a permit. If you have an International Driving Permit you must get it stamped at the central police station. Caricom nationals may drive with a valid Caricom drivers licence.

Safety Tips Centipede/Scorpion Bites - While not lethal, the severity and degree of discomfort depends on individual sensitivity. If there is any doubt, you should see a doctor, especially if a child has been bitten.

Coconut Palms - Never leave a baby or a small child beneath a coconut palm because of the possibility of falling coconuts.

Illegal Drugs - There are very severe penalties for possession of illegal drugs like Cannabis (weed or ganja) and cocaine – up to life imprisonment and yacht confiscation.

Customs officials are well equipped and trained, so no attempts should be made to import or export even small quantities for “personal use.”

Manchineel - Avoid contact with the fruit commonly known as Manchineel Apples, since they look and smell just like small apples, they are very poisonous and sap from the tree and fruit blisters the skin. If it is raining, be sure that the tree you are sheltering under is not a manchineel, as drops of rain falling off can still produce the same unpleasant effect.

Sea Urchins - A black sea egg with long black spines. If the spines are protruding from your skin then you can try to carefully remove them, but if they are beneath the skin DO NOT try to “pick” them out as this could cause infection. If you leave them in your skin they will eventually dissolve. To be safe, soak with vinegar or some form of antiseptic.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Fast Facts

Ferry Schedule St. Vincent /Southern Grenadines A regular and efficient ferry service for freight and passengers operates between the Southern Grenadines and Kingstown, St. Vincent, with three St. Vincent based companies, MV Barracuda (784) 455-9835 and MV Gem Star (784) 526-1158 or 593-6500 and Jaden Sun (784) 451-2192.

MV Barracuda DEPART KINGSTOWN Monday & Thursday 11:00am Saturday 11:00am

A regular and efficient ferry service for both freight, cars and passengers operates between Bequia and Kingstown, St. Vincent, with two companies – Admiralty Transport and Bequia Express. On Admiralty and Bequia Express sailing time from jetty to jetty is one hour and the return fare is EC$35 and One Way is EC$20.

Bequia Express - Tel: (784) 457-3539

DEPART UNION Tuesday & Friday 6:30am Saturday Approx 4:00pm

MV Gem Star DEPART KINGSTOWN Tuesday & Friday Noon

Ferry Schedule St. Vincent/Bequia

DEPART UNION Wednesday & Saturday 8:30am

bequiaexpress@vincysurf.com DEPART BEQUIA DEPART KINGSTOWN Monday to Friday Monday to Friday 6:30am, 8:30am, 9:30am, 8:00am, 10:30am, 1:00pm, 1:00pm, 4:30pm 4:00pm, 6:00pm Saturday Saturday 6:30am, 9:00am, 4:30pm 8:30am, 12 noon, 6:00pm Sundays & Public Holidays Sundays & Public Holidays 7:00am, 4:30pm 8:30am, 6:00pm

Admiralty Transport - Tel: (784) 458-3348 Once a month MV Gem Star goes to Carriacou on a Wednesday morning from Union Island and on the way back they pass back through Union Island and depart for Kingstown around 2pm. Call to check schedule.

Fares: Kingstown to Canouan and Mayreau EC$30 one way Kingstown to Union Island EC$35 one way Kingstown to Carriacou EC$50 Call to enquire for freight charges

admiraltrans@vincysurf.com (*December to April & July to August only) DEPART BEQUIA DEPART KINGSTOWN Monday to Friday Monday to Friday 6:30am, 9:00am *, 2:00pm 7:45 am *, 11:30am, 4:30pm Saturday Saturday 6:30am, 9:30am, 5:00pm 8:15am, 11:30pm, 7:00pm Sundays & Public Holidays Sundays & Public Holidays 7:30am, 5:00pm 9:00am, 7:00pm

Ferry Schedule St. Vincent & The Grenadines A new fast ferry for passengers only is now operating throughout St. Vincent and The Grenadines offering new connections between the Grenadines islands. Fares are EC$30 between Canouan & Union Island and Kingston and Bequia, EC$55 between Canouan & Bequia, EC$60 between Mayreau & Kingston or Bequia, EC$65 between Bequia & Union Island and Kingstown & Canouan and EC$75 between Union Island and Kingstown. These schedules are subject to change without notice so please check the website.

Jaden Sun Fast Ferry - Tel: (784) 451-2192 jdmarine@vincysurf.com / jadeninc@vincysurf.com www.jadeninc.com Sunday - Kingstown to Canouan & Union Island 4:00 pm.

Monday - Union Island to Canouan 7:00am. Canouan to Bequia 7:45. Bequia to Kingstown 8:45. Kingstown to Bequia 3:00pm. Bequia to Canouan 3:45pm. Canouan to Union Island 4:45pm.

Tuesday - NO SERVICE Wednesday - Union Island to Canouan 7:00am. Canouan to Bequia 7:45am. Bequia to Kingstown 8:45am. NO AFTERNOON SCHEDULE Thursday, Friday and Saturday - Kingstown to Bequia 9:00am. Bequia to Canouan 9:45am.

Canouan to Mayreau on a need basis. Canouan to Union Island 10:45am. Union Island to Mayreau on a need basis. Union Island to Canouan 3:00pm. Canouan to Bequia 3:45pm.

Bequia to Kingstown 4:45pm. No service on Saturdays in May, June, Sept. and Nov.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

15

The St. Vincent & the Grenadines Experience St. Vincent and the Grenadines now qualifies as an authentic emerging market for international business and property investment.

With a good supply of prime real estate locations throughout the islands and prices that remain lower than those of already developed neighbours such as Barbados and St. Lucia, investing in property in St. Vincent and the Grenadines currently represents good value for money Photo: Wilfred Dederer/Location: Mangwana Villa, Bequia

property& investment Some of the most attractive property investment opportunities to be found anywhere in the Caribbean are currently available in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Long renowned for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil environment, this spectacular region has now developed to such a point that while still offering property buyers the traditional comfort and charm of a tropical island home, investors today can also enjoy the security of operating within a well regulated legal and financial jurisdiction.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines remains one of the most dramatically beautiful and refreshingly underdeveloped regions to be found anywhere in the world. From St. Vincent in the north to Union in the south, the diverse islands of the Grenadines can offer a truly breathtaking range of stunning land and seascape scenery, as well as an enviably relaxed and healthy lifestyle.

The economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is undergoing a very positive transformation. In addition to the ongoing development of the international business sector, the general tourism product throughout the islands has improved considerably, thus generating a general trend of steady growth. Indeed, in these times of major global economic challenges and financial uncertainty, many investors are of the opinion that this area is one of the best emerging markets for purchasing real estate and investing in the local economy.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

17

Kay Wilson

St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Kingstown, located on the south western coast, is the capital of St. Vincent – the bustling town and busy port sit on the edge of Kingstown Bay, surrounded by verdant mountain slopes dotted with colourful houses

St. Vincent as an Offshore Financial Centre

By Bryan Jeeves CMG OBE Chairman Jeeves Group and President of the St. Vincent Trust Service

St. Vincent as a low tax jurisdiction is nothing new. As far back as 1976 the first laws for international companies were passed before the country became fully independent. This was undertaken in conjunction with Swiss-based lawyers who registered the St. Vincent Trust Service in Zurich, Switzerland and the Government established the St. Vincent Trust Authority in Kingstown.

During 1993 the Jeeves Group from Liechtenstein, a highly developed offshore jurisdiction, acquired the St. Vincent Trust Service, Zurich. This led to a complete overhaul of the organization and to new legislation being passed by the Government at the end of 1996 in conjunction with the main players in the industry.

From 1997 the rate of new registrations increased remarkably and was only hindered by the turbulences caused by the blacklisting of St. Vincent & the Grenadines, along with 44 other jurisdictions considered by the FATF – Financial Action Task Force

20

to be inadequate in counter money laundering legislation.

Appropriate legislation and supervision was agreed which led to SVG being removed from the blacklist in 2003.

The current global financial crisis led the G20 Meeting in London 2009 to mandate the OECD Secretariat to create a new “Grey List” of countries where the exchange of information was considered inadequate. St. Vincent was placed on this list and faced the arduous task of attaining at least 12 acceptable TIEA Tax Information Agreements by latest March 2010.

Due to an excellent team effort by the Government, led by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the authorities, led by Ms. Sharda Bollers of IFSA and the private sector, St. Vincent, as of July 2010, now has 20 TIEA’s in place. The agreements have been concluded with: Aruba, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Greenland, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Netherlands, Netherland Antilles, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. St. Vincent was therefore white listed by the OECD on March 24th 2010.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

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St. Vincent & the Grenadines can imagine the response they would receive if they told the City of London that UK banks and financial institutions may only accept funds from clients where proof is to hand that all deposits are indeed taxed funds! Two very fine examples of “do what we say and not what we do”.

Nevertheless smaller countries will have to watch future developments very closely. In the latest round of G20 meetings renowned economies such as Switzerland, Singapore, Austria and Belgium were not spared the rod.

Therefore SVG must, and will, move with the times. The Government can only provide the infrastructure and legislation required. It is for the private sector to design new innovative compliant products. The private sector can only do this if they have the assurance of the full support and response by the Government, which is demonstrably the case in St. Vincent. The industry is also facing the future with a range of new compliant products, using amongst other things the three fields that remain unchallenged, namely the last will and testament or letter of wishes, insurance products and investment programmes. All these vehicles can be structured in a compliant manner and can be effectively used for asset protection and estate management.

Tax incentives in any form will apply to citizens and foreign residents equally avoiding any “ring-fencing” claims by the OECD. Innovative products and approaches are now required and as ever excellent personal service, so that the wide spectrum of a financial services sector, including shipping, company, trust and mutual fund registrations, to mention the main elements, may prosper in the future.

Photo: Wilfred Dederer/Courtesy Hope Bay Estate, Bequia

The next step for the OECD, which some are comparing with the medieval inquisition and witch hunts by the large countries against the small, will be the OECD Peer Review process, whereby countries will be assessed to see if they have in fact implemented the legal and regulatory framework for the exchange of information. St. Vincent will undergo such a review in 2011 and the Government will ensure that the necessary steps are taken.

This move forward is a major step for St. Vincent & the Grenadines.

The private sector is well served by a supportive Government and exceptionally well run authorities. IFSA the International Financial Services Authority is fortunate to be headed by Ms. Sharda SinananBollers and the FIU Financial Intelligence Unit is run by Mr. Grenville Williams and both institutions are considered by professionals to be among the best.

When one considers that more than 20% of the UN members are regularly bullied by the larger states, which preach drinking water, but drink wine themselves, one wonders why the smaller nations do not cooperate more closely. During a recent UN Session, the SVG Ambassador C. Gonsalves courageously pointed this discrimination out to the General Assembly. The Sovereign Prince of Liechtenstein, HSH Hans Adam II, raised the same subject of small states cooperating in a speech to the UN Assembly over a decade ago. There are crass examples of the playing field (a catchword initiated by the FATF) still being uneven. The US has within its borders Delaware, considered by professionals to be the most lax jurisdiction - tax haven worldwide. The UK insisted in its TIEA with Liechtenstein that Liechtenstein banks must close all non-compliant accounts for UK resident tax subjects by 2015. One

Many investors are of the opinion that St. Vincent & the Grenadines is one of the best emerging markets for purchasing real estate

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The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Courtesy Harlequin Hotels & Resorts/Buccament Bay Resort

Property & Investment

St. Vincent and the Grenadines – SVG – Strong, Vibrant and Growing!

Invest SVG St. Vincent & the Grenadines is one of the last remaining vestiges of true Caribbean life. More and more people are discovering its unique charms as a holiday retreat; but many are also discovering its advantages as an emerging investment hotspot, making it a country on the verge of economic discovery....

Invest SVG is the investment promotions agency for St. Vincent & the Grenadines. At Invest SVG we promote both foreign direct investment into the local economy, as well as export promotion of local goods and services.

Many opportunities abound for doing business on our shores.

Private island and other resort development, opportunities in

fisheries, renewable energy farms... whatever your passion, it’s possible in our islands. Many reputable companies, such as the Mustique Company and Harlequin Hotels & Resorts, have already discovered the charms of doing business in St. Vincent & the Grenadines. Green field properties are currently available all along our chain of islands, from St. Vincent to Union Island. Opportunities exist for joint ventures and other investment tools.

Our key areas for promotion and business development are: • Tourism development • Renewable energy • Agribusiness • International financial services (IFS) • Information and communications technology (ICT) • Light Manufacturing • The creative industries • Airport development On the verge of completing its international airport, St. Vincent & the Grenadines is a destination that has always been mostly on the un-beaten track. But now, with its doors opening, the prospects of investing here are much more exciting. Other advantages include tax exemptions, duty-free concessions, the right to own property and many others.

Through Invest SVG, investors gain access to a range of support for sustaining profitable businesses including policy clarification, application and permit processing, marketing and networking support, identification of business opportunities, and many others.

For further information on doing business in St. Vincent & the Grenadines, contact Invest SVG: enquiries@investsvg.com | www.investsvg.com

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

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St. Vincent & the Grenadines Grenadine Island Villas Bequia Waterfront, Frangipani Gardens Tel: 784-529-8046 or 784-455-0969 or 784-457-3739 e-mail: grenadinevillas@mac.com www.grenadinevillas.com Beach retreats, classic villas and distinctive houses. Based in the islands, this friendly team offers a full service to help you find and enjoy your perfect island hideaway. With a comprehensive online guide and swift, responsive service you can relax and fully enjoy your Grenadines villa experience. Benefit from helpful services such as provisioning, welcome meals and 24hr on-island assistance. Contact Grenadine Island Villas for detailed information on island developments, investment opportunities and land & villa purchase. Visit their Waterfront offices on Bequia to arrange guided property viewings.

Grenadine Escape Sales & Rentals London, England.

UK: 44 208 7491157 enquiries@grenadine-escape.com www.grenadine-escape.com After many years of experience in finding suitable villas to match their clients’ vacation aspirations, Grenadine Escape share their knowledge by advising and recommending possible purchase options based on the vision you have for your own Caribbean home.

They have dedicated agents on both sides of the Atlantic. A year ago they bought a property of their own at Lower Bay in Bequia. Their investment has grown thirty percent in value. For first hand knowledge of properties throughout the region, contact Grenadine Escape.

Erika's Land & Villa Agents Tel: 784-485-8335 Mobile: 784-494-1212 North America Tel: 416-848-7325 Fax: 784-485-8336 e-mail: realestate@erikamarine.com

www.erikamarine.com/realestatesales When looking for land, whether for commercial use or to build that dream vacation or retirement villa, look to Union Island. A magnificent volcanic island set in the Caribbean Sea, unspoiled and peaceful, you will find it to be an idyllic location. Erika's is a full service realtor, providing legal services, land surveying and plenty of support to help ease the process, especially for foreign purchasers.

Call them today, or check their listings online. Erika's has a wide range of excellent properties, just waiting for you to fall in love with.

Hope Bay Estate Bequia Tel: 00 44 (0) 1264 730 733 e-mail: enquiries@hopebayestate.com www.hopebayestate.com With Mustique almost fully developed, potential buyers are looking favourably at the neighbouring island of Bequia as an exciting, more authentically Caribbean alternative. Hope Bay Estate is an exquisitely designed luxury villa development set in three acres of beautifully landscaped gardens with expansive views over the secluded bay below, and the ocean beyond. The first, and largest, of three individually styled properties, each designed and finished to the highest specifications, has just been completed and is now available for purchase. Hope Bay Estate offers a unique opportunity to acquire a top quality property, stunningly located on arguably the most charming and unspoilt island in the region.

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The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Property & Investment Tribu – Mayreau Island offers spectacular white sand westward facing beach and sloping land to ensure every bedroom has incredible sunset beach views. According to project architect Kenneth Kao, Harvard Professor and architect of other such notable projects as Neckar and Mosquito Islands, “My experience designing foremost Caribbean resorts comes together here: Tribu has been carefully crafted to make the most of the landscape, the sun, and the ocean views. It’s one of our finest works.”

Prices range from 280K to 1.85M pounds. Owners at Tribu will be few. Inquire now.

Tel: 784-570-1999 info@mayreau-island.com

www.mayreau-island.com

Tribu – Mayreau Island Villas The Grenadines offers some of the world’s most exclusive island escapes. Imagine being able to buy in at the very beginning. Construction has begun on a world class Villa Resort on Mayreau Island. Enjoy a complete escape while living and dining in luxury. Amenities to include restaurant, private dining, beach bar, tennis court, catamarans, and motorized pleasure craft. With Canouan and Mustique only a quick speedboat away, your Private Island Navigator is ready to tour you around the finest dining, gaming, golfing, and horseback riding in the Grenadines.

Mayreau Island - off the beaten path, but that’s the point!

Owners at Tribu will be few...

Inquire now.

T EL : 784-570-1999 INFO @ MAYREAU - ISLAND . COM WWW. MAYREAU - ISLAND . COM

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

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The Grenadines Experience Turquoise waters, powdery, white sand beaches and secluded island adventures are all guaranteed components of the perfect sailing holiday taking you through this majestic volcanic region.

Sailing in the Tobago Cays Marine Park with the appropriately named Horseshoe Reef offering protection from the open sea Photo: Dan Christaldi/Courtesy Chantours Caribbean

chartering Isolated beaches, romantic moonlit evenings, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, walks, hikes, island explorations, and island nightlife are but a handful of the possibilities available when you choose a sailing holiday in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The crystal clear, azure waters, palm fringed beaches and constant Trade Winds are all guaranteed components of the perfect sailing holiday taking you through these majestic little islands. Five-star meals are prepared in the delectable flavour of the islands and served to you in a comfortable cockpit – morning, noon, and night.

Chartering in the Grenadines There are a number of reputable yacht charter companies operating out of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as the neighbouring island of Grenada. They all offer starts in St. Vincent, so whether you opt for a bare boat, or a fully crewed vacation, St. Vincent is a prime jump-off spot. Starting here puts you on the doorstep of the Grenadines without the 65 mile sail (including a 5-hour open-water passage) from St. Lucia, or the 6 to 7 hour sail (often against the wind) from Grenada. The constant Trade Winds of between 10 and 25 knots create near perfect sailing conditions.

Yacht charter companies like Sunsail and Barefoot in St. Vincent, Sail Relax Explore in Bequia and Wind and Sea in Union Island, offer a remarkable variety of monohulls and catamarans ranging in size from 30 to 130 feet. They are known in these waters for their excellent service and knowledgeable crew.

The Friendship Rose, based in Bequia, operates day charters to the Tobago Cays, St. Vincent and Mustique on their historic, Bequia-built sailing schooner. In the Southern Grenadines, Wind and Sea,

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

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St. Vincent Yannis Sail and Chantours offer memorable day trips (and private charters) to the islands of Mayreau, the Tobago Cays and Palm Island.

Companies like the UK-based Grenadine Escape, and the Barbados-based Chantours Caribbean have a wealth of experience sailing in the Caribbean. They can arrange just about any yachting holiday anywhere in the Caribbean, from Martinique, St. Lucia, the Grenadines or Grenada, right up to the BVI’s.

SVG Air Private Charters for individuals, groups or families offer the convenience of no crowds, no queuing up and no waiting around. The amazing aerial views from the aircraft combined with the freedom to choose when and where you wish to go is unsurpassable. Seating from six to eighteen people, Twin Otters, Britten Norman Islanders, Citation CJ3s and Citation Bravos can fly you through (or to) the Grenadines and the short flight times enable you to make the most of your precious holiday days. A full range of services are available at reasonable rates to suit the needs of the individual, from private charters, shared charters, corporate flights and day trips to neighbouring islands, to medical evacuations and freight services. SVG Air and Canouan Resort have come together to offer the first Private Jet Service based in the Grenadines.

SVG Air and LIAT operate daily scheduled flights to and from St. Vincent & the Grenadines.

Chantours, a Barbados-based company, offers exclusive one day excursions and 2 to 7 night yacht packages in the Grenadines aboard their luxury 50-ft catamaran. They can also arrange accommodation in luxury villas and day trips from Barbados to the Grenadines.

The charter companies listed on the following pages will be happy to assist you in planning your ideal getaway.

Ottley Hall Marina & Shipyard Photo: Courtesy Wind and Sea

Ottley Hall, St. Vincent.

VHF 16, Tel: 784-457-2178 Fax: 784-456-1302 e-mail: ottleyhall@vincysurf.com www.ottleyhall.com

Sailing in the Tobago Cays Marine Park

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For dry storage, repairs to your yacht or ship Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard offers all that you need. Dry docking facilities for boats up to 65m and 1,000-tonne. The marina has 22 berths for yachts from 22m – 65m and a 40-tonne travel lift. You can get your metalwork, sandblasting, painting and mechanical repairs done in one convenient package at the Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Indulge...

While holidaying in the Caribbean, indulge in our: • PLAZA 2, SUNSET CREST, ST.JAMES, BARBADOS. T: (246) 432-5591 E: reservations@chantours.com www.chantours.com

• •

One day sailing excursions in the Grenadine Islands. Explore Union, Mayreau, the Tobago Cays and Palm Island or perhaps Morpion and enchanting Petit St Vincent.

NEW ! Explore the Grenadines on board a luxurious crewed catamaran for 2 nights / 3 days with our new Stateroom packages. No need to charter your own yacht, sail the islands in style.

Sail & Stay….The ultimate indulgence! Combine an exclusive villa or hotel with as little as 2 nights on a luxury crewed yacht!

Escape...

Create the memory of a lifetime on board one of our luxurious yachts Photo by Bugsy Gedlek

If you seek an exclusive holiday tailored to meet your every desire…….you have come to the right place. For the ultimate luxury experience get on board one of our preferred yachts.

From sleek motor yachts for those who desire the super yacht lifestyle to luxurious sailing yachts for those who prefer the trade winds to dictate their pace. Wherever your preferred destination, we have the right yacht for you.

Simply choose your guests and we will take care of the rest….

ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES • FRENCH WEST INDIES • BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS • MEDITERRANEAN

PLAZA 2, SUNSET CREST, ST.JAMES, BARBADOS • T: (246) 432-5591 • E: info@warrenyachting.com • www.warrenyachting.com

St. Vincent Chantours Caribbean Tel: 246-432-5591/246-432-0703 email: reservations@chantours.com

www.chantours.com

Chantours can arrange anything from the exceptional and exclusive, to the simple and sublime. For the total indulgence, charter a stylish crewed yacht for a day….or a few days, and tailor everything from the menus to your itinerary. Perhaps combine a yachting holiday with a few days at an island villa or resort. NEW stateroom charters allow guests to simply reserve their own spacious cabin and Chantours will take care of the rest! ~ Day Escapes ~ Stylish Crewed Yachts ~ Luxurious Villas & Resorts ~ Private Aircraft Charters ~

Sail Relax Explore Tel: 784-495-0886/9 or 784-457-3888 e-mail: sailrelaxexplore@mac.com www.sailrelaxexplore.com Yacht Charter and Day Cruises… from unique local boats and speedboats to crewed luxury yachts. Specialising in Short Grenadines Charters and Speedboat Adventure Days with picnics, snorkeling and diving; flights can be arranged throughout the Grenadines. Choose from a selection of Bareboat or Crewed Yachts, Catamarans, Monohulls, Traditional Sailing Schooners and a range of Speedboats. This friendly team help get you out on the water – for a day or longer…

SVG Air (1990) Ltd. Tel: 784-457-5124 Fax: 784-457-5077 e-mail: info@svgair.com

www.svgair.com

SVG Air (1990) Ltd., based in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has operated successfully for the past 20 years taking many a satisfied customer from one Caribbean country to another. Specializing in charters and shared charters SVG Air offers a personalized service second to none. Their fleet of light twins and a business jet flown by highly professional pilots also offers an air ambulance service, a freight service and a handling service for any aircraft wishing to visit St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Come fly with us!

Wind and Sea Bougainvilla, Clifton Harbour, Union Island

Tel: 784-458-8344/8678 Cell: 784-493-3128 e-mail: windandsea@vincysurf.com www.grenadines-windandsea.com www.grenadines-bougainvilla.com Established in 1984 and located in the heart of Clifton Harbour at Bougainvilla Hotel in Union Island, Wind and Sea offers day charters sailing throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadine islands. Guests can be collected from anywhere in SVG and taken to their choice of islands while being served drinks by the excellent staff. Lunch may be a buffet on board or on one of the islands. They are also port agent for several cruise ships in the Grenadines. Bougainvilla is a wonderful facility for yachtmen, dock, water, ice, restaurant " The Aquarium " serving fresh sea food everyday. Free Wifi service.

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The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Chartering

Barefoot Yacht Charters Blue Lagoon, St. Vincent Tel: 784-4569526 Fax: 784-456-9238 e-mail: barebum@vincysurf.com www.barefootyachts.com Operated by a family that has been sailing the waters of the Grenadines for 7 generations, this is St. Vincent’s longestestablished yacht charter company. Providing highly personalised service, they offer a fleet of beautifully equipped 32 to 50-foot catamarans and monohulls at very affordable rates. Choose between a bareboat charter or a luxury crewed trip. Honeymoon charters can also be arranged. Facilities include luxury ocean-view suites, a Mediterranean restaurant and air-conditioned lounge bar and an Internet Café.

Discover the islands in style on a Sunsail yacht.

What better way to explore the beauty of St Vincent and the Grenadines than on a yacht? Experience the exhilaration of sailing in the warm waters and winds of the Caribbean. If you don’t have sailing experience, we can provide a skipper to sail the yacht and guide you to the best locations.Yachts range from 30ft to 50ft and charter rates start from $250USD per day.

To book your charter, call: 784 458 4308 Blue Lagoon, Ratho Mill, St.Vincent,West Indies e-mail: sunsailsvg@vincysurf.com

®

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

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The Vincy Experience Abounding in natural beauty, steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage, St. Vincent is still relatively untouched by mass tourism and remains a wonderful place to "get away from it all" and soak up some true Caribbean culture.

Dark View Falls Wilfred Dederer

St.Vincent The multi-island country of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a land of many contrasts. Comprising 32 enchanting islands and cays, St. Vincent, referred to as “the mainland”, is mountainous and lush, with tumbling waterfalls, verdant rainforests, magnificent coral reefs... and an active volcano.

A Brief History The Kalinago (or “Caribs” as they were named by the Europeans), knew St. Vincent as Hairoun - Land of the Blessed. The island may first have been inhabited by a group of Amerindians, sometimes known as the Ciboney, whose economy would have depended both on marine resources and on foods gathered or hunted from the land. Evidence of these “Archaic” or pre-ceramic people is strongest in islands such as Antigua, Trinidad and Martinique, but much further research is needed to establish the true extent of the earliest occupation of St. Vincent.

Another indigenous group of Amerindians, who entered the Caribbean island chain from the northern regions of South America, formed a second wave of migration into the islands beginning around 500BC. Highly skilled navigators, mariners, pottery makers, weavers and basket makers, these early Caribbean people introduced agriculture into the islands, mainly in the form of cassava – their staple crop.

Archaeological evidence indicates that these people established settlements in St. Vincent from around 150AD onwards. Over the next 1,200 years, they engaged in trading and exchange with other groups in other islands up and down the Antillean chain, bringing subtle changes to the population structure and its culture.

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Kay Wilson

St. Vincent

St. Vincent’s Botanical Gardens, founded in 1762, are the oldest such gardens in the Western Hemisphere. The gardens are home to a descendant of one of the original breadfruit trees brought to St. Vincent by Captain Bligh after the famous mutiny on the HMS Bounty

A final migration from South America brought the Island Caribs into the region, arriving in St. Vincent around 1,450AD – less than 50 years before the Europeans were to first set foot in the Caribbean. The pre-existing Amerindians were overrun by the Caribs (although much of their culture, language and skills were absorbed and endured in a modified form) and a new chapter in Vincentian history began.

More warlike than their predecessors – or perhaps simply more threatened – the Caribs vigorously defended their homeland against any attempts at foreign occupation. Their valiant resistance throughout the 17th century prevented St. Vincent from being taken and colonized until long after most other Caribbean islands had well-established European settlements.

In the first half of that same century, there were some new arrivals on the island. Africans – both survivors of shipwrecked Dutch and Spanish slave ships and, later, escapees from British plantations in Barbados – slowly began to be absorbed into St. Vincent’s existing Carib population, adopting much of their language and their culture. Referred to as “Black Caribs” to distinguish them from the original “Yellow Caribs”, the progeny of this unique group in St. Vincent became the foundation of the Garifuna (which means “cassava-eating people”) who today populate Belize and Honduras.

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Despite sustained resistance, both the British and the French pursued their attempts to settle the tantalizingly fertile island into the early 18th century. Although each was deeply mistrusted by both the Black and the Yellow Caribs, it was the French who became St. Vincent’s first European settlers, permitted by the Caribs to establish small holdings and settlements on the Leeward side in the early 1700s.

Meanwhile the European nations continued to be at war. The 1748 Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle officially ended the War of the Austrian Succession and included the proviso that St. Vincent remain officially “neutral.” The 1763 Treaty of Paris, which ended the Seven Years War, saw France ceding the “neutral” island of St. Vincent to the British, together with Grenada and the Grenadine islands.

During the period 1772-1773 (referred to as the First Carib War), the Caribs engaged in guerrilla-like warfare and destroyed plantations by setting them on fire. With Carib aid, the French forcibly seized the island in 1779, but restored it to Britain in 1783, under the Treaty of Versailles. In 1795, the Caribs began the two years of conflict known as the Second Carib War. With the aid of French rebels from Martinique, the Caribs, led by their two main chiefs Chatoyer and Duvalle, plotted the removal of the British by systematically attacking the British settlers and their establishments and engaging the British militia. Chief Chatoyer

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

History

Fanny Terrer/Irie Images

By the latter half of the 19th century the sugar trade had slumped and a lasting depression ensued, made worse by a devastating eruption of La Soufrière in 1902 which destroyed the northern half of the island and killed over 2,000 people.

In 1925 a Legislative Council was inaugurated but it was not until 1951 that universal adult suffrage was introduced. St. Vincent & the Grenadines belonged to the Windward Islands Federation until 1959 and the West Indies Federation between 1958 and 1962. Britain granted internal self-government to the island in 1969 and as a British Associated State, Vincentians were responsible for their internal affairs while Great Britain handled foreign affairs and defence.

On October 27, 1979 St. Vincent achieved full Independence within the Commonwealth from Britain, with Robert Milton Cato as the new nation’s first Prime Minister. The New Democratic Party (NDP) formed a majority government with James Mitchell as Prime Minister in 1984. Politically, the island remained under the leadership of Sir James Mitchell until March 2001 when the Unity Labour Party (ULP), led by Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, won 12 of the 15 parliamentary seats.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines continues to be a stable democratic society welcoming visitors from around the world.

Fort Charlotte, built in 1806, is steeped in history – a number of cannon on the site actually point inland in defense of possible Carib attack

was killed in battle on March 14th 1795. Proclaimed a national hero in 2002, a monument in Chatoyer’s honour can be seen at the site of the battle in Dorsetshire Hill.

Although shocked by Chatoyer’s death and the loss of much of their French support, the Caribs fought on. Battles continued throughout St. Vincent over the next year, with both sides bearing heavy losses. Finally, after a night of arduous fighting at Vigie, the Caribs approached the British with a flag of truce on June 10th, 1796.

During the next four months, nearly 5,000 Black Caribs were exiled to the tiny island of Baliceaux off the coast of Bequia. In March 1797, those who survived the ordeal of exile – and almost half did not – were loaded onto a convoy of eight vessels and transported to the island of Roatan off the coast of Honduras.

The few remaining Yellow Caribs in St. Vincent scattered to the north of the island near Sandy Bay, where their descendants can still be found today.

The island’s plantation economy, based on enslaved labour, flourished in the early 19th century with sugar, cotton, coffee and cocoa its main cash crops. After the emancipation of slaves in 1834, indentured labourers from Portugal and the East Indies were brought in to rectify the labour shortage. In 1871 St. Vincent became a part of the British colony of the Windward Islands.

SVG National Trust The St. Vincent National Trust headquarters is located in Kingstown, in the Old Carnegie Public Library (Heritage Hall).

There is a wonderful exhibit of archaeological treasures housed within. It is open to the public Mondays – Thursdays, 10a.m. to 5p.m. or by special arrangement. Entrance donation EC$5.00. Members free.

The Trust is partially supported by Government grants and member's dues, but is able to accept gifts and contributions.

Tel: (784) 451-2921 e-mail: svgntrust@vincysurf.com

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St. Vincent Meet

Wilfred Dederer

a Vincy

Douglass Brisbane is a proud Vincentian – 83 years young and in love with life

Douglass "Brizzy" Brisbane

by Bob Berlinghof

Bob Berlinghof

A Vincy-style Renaissance Man

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Douglass Brisbane, 83, M.B.E., O.B.E., C.B.E., is well-known for his booming voice and hearty demeanor, a larger than life figure around town, or as I knew him, a wiry brown man in a speedo behind the wheel of Goldfinger, his fishing boat. These days he lives alone since his beloved wife Mabel passed away two years ago, and though frail, his mind is sharp as he recounts his remarkable life. Brizzy is the embodiment of a Vincy-style Renaissance Man: successful businessman, visionary garden designer, hotelier, play producer, horticulturalist, shrub sculptor, chicken and livestock farmer, sharpshooter, firearms trainer, fine artist, and environmentalist. He is probably best known as the creator of the stunning Montreal Gardens, which he bought in 1959 and developed as an exporter of cut flowers and ferns, with guest cottages, a main house, pool, and restaurant.

Gardening was Brizzy's number one love, and as we sit on a spacious verandah over the lush but overgrown garden of his Prospect home he quips, "I used to have help, but they only

helped themselves." Brizzy traces his ancestry back to Scotland and Sir Charles Brisbane, a former Governor of St. Vincent. His father founded O.D. Brisbane and Sons, commissioned agents at first, then importers. Douglass was born in St. Vincent in December 1927. At the age of twelve, Brizzy’s parents separated and he and his mother relocated to Grenada. An avid reader and book collector, he recalls his first business venture, "Copper Cash," renting his comic books for a penny apiece. When his mother would tell him to get to sleep he would read under the sheets from the light of "labelles" (fireflies) collected in a jar. A serious lung infection required young Douglass to recuperate in Trinidad for nearly a year, where he busied himself with his books and taught himself to paint. He pursued this passion his entire life, along with his legendary love for animals – and the animals always seem to love him right back! As a youngster, he raised chickens in his bedroom; in later years friends recall a particular one-legged blackbird who would perch itself on Brizzy’s shoulder as he walked around his garden doing chores. Even now he regularly feeds birds and iguanas on his porch and dotes on his six "Bequia poodles," the loyal Fatty Dan, Elizabeth Taylor, Snowy, Duke, Stinker, and Pebbles.

He moved back to St. Vincent in 1946 after studying accountancy and working in Grenada selling rice, sugar, textiles, lumber, and other essentials. He married Mabel Grant in 1948 and

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The the Grenadines

Wilfred Dederer

Gardening was always Brizzy's number one love – he is probably best known as the creator of the stunning Montreal Gardens, which he bought in 1959 and developed as an exporter of cut flowers and ferns

joined the volunteer St. Vincent Fire Brigade and Auxiliary Police.

An avid shooter and member of the St. Vincent Rifle Club, he taught his fellow policemen firearms training. He recalls the ticklish situation in which he found himself in the early 1950's, when St. Vincent's black population obtained the right to vote.

The political climate became so volatile that when E.T. Joshua (who would become St. Vincent's first Premier) organized a series of sugar workers' strikes, Brizzy was called upon to hold 63 men and women prisoner at Fort Charlotte for a short while. "Joshua was a real politician," he says, proudly recalling their conversations. He later became the chief inspector for civilian gun ownership – you needed to pass Brizzy's muster if you wished to own a handgun or rifle – and it included a training course.

Douglass and Mabel raised four children, daughters Laura, Charmaine, and Deanne, and son McGregor. In the 1950's Brizzy penned an article describing the "misuse of the sea" for a magazine in the Virgin Islands. His environmentalism mainly took shape on land, however, as he taught himself horticulture and began designing beautiful gardens. After his purchase and transformation of the Montreal Gardens, he also became active in stage production, founding the St. Vincent Light Operatic Group.

They performed two complete musicals, with Douglass learning stagecraft, set design, and other essentials on a trip to Trinidad.

In 1968 Brizzy and Mabel opened guest apartments at Indian Bay. The Treasure Island Beach Resort added a restaurant in 1972, run by Mabel. They sold the property to a foreign investor in 1988 and began a new chapter in their lives.

The couple then moved to Bequia for eight years and lived at Friendship Bay, fifty yards from the beach. Brizzy calls these "the best years of my life." He loved fishing and sporting around on his speedboat, a Bowen 28, named Goldfinger.

Brizzy worked at the time on Mustique designing gardens for wealthy clients, while back home he grew a hundred grape trees, as well as hybrid tea roses.

On his porch in St. Vincent Brizzy feeds snacks to his poodles and misses Mabel, whom he calls "the most beautiful girl in the world" while showing me a picture of her relaxing aboard Goldfinger. A red-throated swift lands on the bird feeder six feet from us and enjoys a meal and a bath, seemingly tamed by Brizzy's presence. Photos and artifacts of a lifetime are piled in his living room, and original artwork adorns the walls, including the first paintings he made from his bed in Trinidad as a boy.

The letters behind Brizzy's name honour his service to his country, and this son of the soil is a proud Vincentian, 83 years young and in love with life.

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The St. Vincent Experience Dark View Falls consist of three individual waterfalls cascading into pools which are lovely for an exhilarating swim in the cool, refreshing river water.

The bamboo grove at Dark View Falls Christine Wilkie

island adventures St. Vincent is blessed with verdant mountain landscapes, volcanic-rich soil with unspoiled backdrops of brilliant flora, and alluring crystal clear waters which beckon diving enthusiasts from around the world. Add to this the easy accessibility of the idyllic islands and deserted cays of the Grenadines, and the entire country emerges as a prime ecoplayground.

Abundant reef-life, normally found at 80-ft. in most dive destinations around the world, flourishes here at depths of only 25-ft. with an extraordinary variety of “critters” and tropical reef fish such as angelfish, sargeant majors and peacock flounder. It is little wonder that St. Vincent was voted the top small animal destination in the Atlantic and the Caribbean by Rodales Scuba Diving Magazine in 2004.

Dive St. Vincent, Indigo Dive and Fantasea Tours specialize in creating tailor-made dives for the beginner and experienced diver alike–they know where all the best dive sites are located. The shallowwater reefs surrounding almost every island also make snorkeling an exciting adventure.

If land activities are more to your liking, contact HazECO Tours or Sam’s Taxi & Tours – their exciting and informative tours are the perfect way to get “off-the-beaten-track” and discover the “real” St. Vincent.

Guides are always recommended for the various hiking excursions, especially for Trinity Falls, the Vermont Nature Trail and the La Soufrière volcano – HazECO can provide knowledgeable and experienced guides who know these areas well.

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St. Vincent From St. Vincent, Bequia is only an hour away by the regularly scheduled ferry service (see page 15). This is an inexpensive way to see another island while visiting St. Vincent. Occasionally, during ferry crossings, a school of dolphin will leap and twirl to the delight of passengers. Six types of dolphin are found in Vincentian waters, including spinner, spotted, Fraser and bottlenose. Whales, such as Orcas and pilot, can also be observed. For those interested in a day of dolphin and whale watching, outings can be arranged through several operators, including Hal Daize of Sea Breeze Nature Tours and Earl and Kim Halbich of Fantasea Tours who also offer boat trips to the Grenadine islands and the lovely Falls of Baleine.

Sightseeing The natural wonders of St. Vincent can be seen at the Botanical Gardens, the oldest such gardens in the Western Hemisphere.

Located to the east of the Leeward Highway heading north out of Kingstown, the gardens were founded in 1762 as a commercial breeding ground for plants brought from other parts of the world.

These gardens were Captain Bligh’s original destination when the mutiny on HMS Bounty delayed his first scheduled arrival. He eventually completed a second voyage and a descendant of one of the original breadfruit trees he brought thrives in today’s garden. Unofficial guides are readily available and can give you a tour of the grounds (negotiate a fee before setting out – expect to pay around US$5 per person). There is also a small aviary where you can see the rare St. Vincent parrot.

Approximately 5 miles/8 kilometres northwest of Kingstown, the road up the Buccament River Valley to the Vermont Nature Trails veers east, off the main road. The nature trails are a network of wellposted loops through the 1,000 – 2,000 foot levels of Grand Bonhomme. The well-maintained paths pass through an evergreen forest and then on to a tropical rain forest. Towering ferns, 60-foot bamboo stands and hardwood forests 100-feet overhead are all standard fare on this extraordinary nature walk. Almost halfway up is a parrot-viewing area where, given the time and the patience, one may be rewarded by seeing the St. Vincent parrot in its natural habitat. Your chances are best between 4pm and dusk.

Continuing north on the Leeward Highway for another 30 minutes brings you to the small whaling village of Barrouallie (“Bar-relly”).

The shoreline is dotted with colourful whaling boats which are used primarily to catch blackfish, a species of small whale. A mere remnant of a once thriving industry during the 19th century, the meager catch taken here in no way threatens any species of the water-born mammals.

Another 10–15 minutes north is Wallilabou (“Wally-la-boo”), which is situated on a picturesque bay. Wallilabou was made all the more famous recently when it was used as the location for Port Royal in the popular Disney movie, Pirates of the Caribbean–Curse of the Black Pearl and its sequel, Dead Man’s Chest.

Farther north is the end of the highway at Chateaubelair and Richmond. Here hikers can climb the western trail to La Soufrière, the massive volcano that takes up the northern third of the island.

While this trail, which turns inland at the Wallilabou Dry River, is considered more scenic than the eastern trail which comes up from just north of Georgetown, on the windward side of the island, it is rougher and takes about three hours to reach the volcano crater.

The more popular, three-and-a-half-mile trail on the eastern coast

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The Owia Salt Pond is located on the north eastern coast of St. Vincent in the village of Owia which is home to some of the islands’ indigenous people – the Black Caribs. The salt pond is continuously refreshed by waves cascading over the dramatic volcanic rock formations that surround the pools.

Photo: Zénon

Wilfred Dederer

St. Vincent

The waterfall at Wallilabou Heritage Park - there is a lovely picnic area, washroom facilities and a bar serving light refreshments

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begins about one mile north of Georgetown, just above the Rabacca Dry River. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is needed to navigate the old plantation road that takes hikers to the base of the 4,000-foot volcano. Guides and vehicles for either trail should be arranged with a reputable tour company.

Dark View Falls are three majestic waterfalls, set in the forest-clad Richmond Valley on the northwest of the island. A natural bamboo bridge spans this tumbling river luring you to a unique setting of the falls, in step formation. This is an uncommon feature for one site, with elevations of up to 229 feet. Picnic tables are scattered under a grove of giant bamboos. One of St. Vincent’s most popular northern attractions is virtually unapproachable by land. The Falls of Baleine can only be reached comfortably by boat, usually a day trip out of Kingstown with an organized tour company like Friendship Rose (in Bequia), Sea Breeze Nature Tours, HazECO or Fantasea Tours.

Before heading out of Kingstown toward the windward (eastern) side of the island, take the wonderfully scenic ride along Queens Drive, in the heights, just east of the capital. The road begins about halfway between Kingstown and the E.T. Joshua Airport at Sion Hill.

It first winds north up a ridge, climbing Dorsetshire Hill (where the famed Carib chieftain Chatoyer met his untimely end battling the British), to Miller’s Ridge. From there the road heads in a northeasterly fashion and then veers south to the airport.

The road up the Atlantic side of the island can be approached from two ways, at the end of the airport runway in Arnos Vale before the two routes join together on the coast at the village of Peruvian Vale. Heading northeast, almost straight out the end of the runway, is the Vigie Highway, which leads to Marriaqua (also known as Mesopotamia) Valley, the island’s breadbasket. The road veers eastward at the small town of Mesopotamia where three rivers meet to form the Yambou River, along whose banks slightly downriver are a couple of petroglyphs. The river and the road run parallel through the Yambou Gorge, before the road turns slightly northward toward Peruvian Vale. Just north of Mesopotamia, on a secondary road, are the Montreal Gardens. While they’re not as well known as the Botanical Gardens in Kingstown, the array of exotic flowers, spices and plants is no less impressive and definitely worth the short detour to get there.

The other route from the airport up the east coast follows the coastline through one of St. Vincent’s prime beach areas, stretching from Villa Point past Indian Bay to the end of Calliaqua Bay. Along this part of the winding road are numerous hotels, restaurants and shops, often with a view to the south toward the Grenadines as a dramatic backdrop.

Lying 200 yards off this part of the coast are two rather small, but impressive islands. The closest and largest is Young Island, a singleisland resort. Legend has it that the island was a reciprocal gift to an English official from a Carib chief who had received a horse from the Englishman. A small ferry is the only link between the island and the mainland of St. Vincent. Behind Young Island, sticking out of the water on an island shaped like a large loaf of pumpernickel bread, is Fort Duvernette. Transportation to the fort can be arranged with the ferry at the dock on Villa Beach.

Continuing up the coast, past Peruvian Vale, the full extent of the island’s banana and coconut production is apparent. Travelling past the fields of tropical crops around Biabou (“Bye-a-boo”), Colonarie (“Con-a-ree”), into Georgetown, and even past the Rabacca Dry River to the Orange Hill Estate (with nearly 3,200 acres, one of the largest coconut plantations in the world), the island’s reputation as an agricultural powerhouse in the region is handsomely displayed.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Island Adventures Beaches and Anchorages Leeward Coast

Windward Coast

Chateaubelair - The bay here, with its 40-foot deep reef and array of brightly coloured fish, is a snorkeler’s dream. While usually a good anchorage, especially on the eastern half of the bay, the northerly swells in the winter months can cause difficulties. Customs and Immigration clearance is now available in Chateaubelair.

Buccament Bay - A well protected, very calm bay with an excellent anchorage shelf in the eastern corner close to the beach.

Exceptionally good snorkeling. The new Buccament Bay Resort is located here.

Cumberland Bay - The bay is very deep and those boats wishing to anchor will need to do so with a bow or stern rope to a palm tree.

Petit Byahaut - Four moorings are available at the resort at Petit Byahaut. There is a small beach, diving and snorkeling are superb. At Dinosaur Head (face of Byahaut point) you will find a 120-foot wall covered in sponges, seafans and coral.

Troumakar Bay - This small well-protected bay, with room for only a handful of yachts, has some mooring posts on the beach. There is good snorkeling along the northern shore.

Wallilabou - This picturesque bay is a good diving spot and reliable line handlers are available to help secure yachts. Customs and Immigration can be cleared here between 4pm and 6pm (up to 7pm during the busier winter season).

Kingstown - Customs and Immigration can be cleared at Kingstown Harbour between 8:30am and 4pm; there is a tie-up for yachts.

On the windward side of the island there are a number of beautiful black sand beaches. Especially popular is Argyle, a long beach onto which breakers crash furiously.

Because of the strong under currents, most of the windward beaches are not recommended for swimming.

Blue Lagoon - Surrounded by palm trees, with a lovely beach, this area provides a very pleasant anchorage. Moorings are available at Barefoot Yacht Charters or Sunsail.

Young Island Cut - The anchorage here, lying in clear water, is a favourite with yachtspeople.

Anchor with care, as the current sweeps both ways and the centre of the cut is 65 feet deep.

Moorings are available, but stay clear of the sea bed close to Young Island itself.

Villa Beach and Indian Bay - There are two white sand beaches on mainland St. Vincent located on the southeast end of the island.

They are divided by a small hilly projection and are easily accessible. Both beaches offer good snorkeling and provide lovely views of Young Island and some of the Grenadine islands to the south.

Wilfred Dederer

South-East Coast

Wallilabou is a beautiful bay on the leeward coast where Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed. It provides a good anchorage for yachts and there is a restaurant and bar ashore.

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St. Vincent Fantasea Tours Villa Beach, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-4477/5555 Fax: 784-457-5577 e-mail: fantasea@vincysurf.com www.fantaseatours.com An experience to the islands none can beat! A fully qualified Captain, Earl Halbich has been cruising the islands for over 20 years. Their fleet of luxury power boats include 60ft party catamaran, 42ft cruiser, 38ft & 28ft Bowens. Their excursions are personalised and informative with the comfort and safety of their guests always in mind. Cruise to the Falls of Baleine, the Grenadine Islands, Sunset Cruises, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Scuba Diving, Land Tours, Private Charters & Celebration Cruises. Unlimited drinks, snorkeling equipment and lots of fun complimentary. Isn’t it time for a Fantasea?

Caribbean Schooner Cruises Friendship Rose - 100ft Local Classic Sailing Schooner Tel: 784-495-0886/9 e-mail: friendshiprose@mac.com www.friendshiprose.com Discover the Grenadines with The Friendship Rose. Daily Cruises to the Tobago Cays, Mustique and the tropical coast of St. Vincent. Dive or snorkel the Tobago Cays, sip champagne at Mustique, escape along St. Vincent’s tropical coastline and visit Disney’s ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ movie locations.

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and cake, with drinks all day – all included. Cruise packages also available combining villa and hotel accommodation, inter-island connections and a selection of day cruises throughout the Grenadines.

P i o ne e r s o f W h a l e a n d D o l p h i n W a t c h i n g in St .Vinc ent & The Gr enadi nes!

Sea Breeze Nature Tours Hal & Beverly Daize, Arnos Vale P.O., St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4969 or mobile: 784-492-4139 e-mail: seabreezetours@vincysurf.com www.seabreezenaturetours.com While in SVG enjoy a coastal eco cruise with SEA BREEZE NATURE TOURS. See live marine entertainment from leaping dolphins to the tail of a whale diving. For over 20 years, Sea Breeze Nature Tours have pioneered whale and dolphin watching on the island. With experience and ongoing training, they were the first tour operator to I.D. these graceful, gentle cetaceans on each tour. Listen to these mammals chattering on a hydrophone. Glimpse turtles, flying-fish and the omnipresent aviary. Visit the ‘Pirates of The Caribbean’ film set with snorkeling at the beach. Fishing charters available.

Indigo Dive Tel: 784-493-9494 e-mail: info@indigodive.com www.indigodive.com Indigo Dive specializes in creating tailor-made dive experiences for the beginner & expert diver alike. They offer a money back guarantee - if you aren’t satisfied with their service, they will refund you the cost of your dive! Glass bottom boat & snorkel tours available for non divers too! The best diving on the island is just a few minutes boat ride away. The Indigo Dive professionals will introduce you to reefs and wall dives teeming with a diversity of sea life and a number of challenging wreck sites for the more adventurous diver to explore. Services include “One to One” and group tuition, snorkeling excursions, Leeward & sunset cruises, tours to the Falls of Belaine, Larakai lava bed and Pirates locations plus private charters and yacht rendezvous service.

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The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Island Adventures HazECO Tours P.O. Box 2604, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-8634 Fax: 784-457-8105 VHF 16/68 e-mail: hazeco@vincysurf.com www.hazecotours.com HazECO Tours offers visitors an opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty and volcanic nature of this country by land and by sea. Personalized, top quality eco-tours to all of the islands’ natural and historical sites can be enjoyed in comfortable, airconditioned vans, or on their luxury 40-ft power boat. Let their experienced guides take you to the spectacular waterfalls, lush rainforests, volcano, forts, the Tobago Cays and Mustique. See fascinating sights, including ancient petroglyphs and intriguing heritage sites; go bird-watching; explore the islands on their “off-thebeaten-track” hiking excursions.

Sam’s Taxi Tours Cane Garden, St. Vincent Tel: 784-456-4338 Fax: 784-456-4233 e-mail: sam-taxi-tours@vincysurf.com An outstanding tour company with over 15 years experience in showing visitors around the island. A wide range of specialized sightseeing tours tailored to suit all interests. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Leeward and Windward coasts with experienced, knowledgeable guides – hike the nature trails, visit exquisite botanic gardens, swim in mountain rivers and waterfalls, climb the volcano and explore this land of verdant landscapes. Sam’s also offers an island-wide taxi service, airport transfers, car rentals, internet, fax and telephone services. They also cater to yachtsmen, offering mooring, customs and immigration clearance.

At Basil’s Villa (across from Young Island), St. Vincent Tel: 784-456-2602 e-mail: basils@vincysurf.com www.basilsbar.com Basil’s newly opened full service SPA is located in Villa across from Young Island.

At Basil's visitors will also find a wonderful collection of beautiful bamboo furniture, contemporary pieces, and many more exquisite accessories for the home, imported from Asia and beyond.

At Basil's Oasis Spa & Wellness Centre Villa Flat, St. Vincent & the Grenadines Tel: 784-456-2555 e-mail: spa.oasis@gmail.com Perched right on the coastline in the Villa area with the Caribbean Sea and Young Island as its backdrop. Owned and operated by qualified aesthetician, Monique Tash, the spa pampers clients with everything they need to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit. With private treatment rooms, they offer everything from manicures, pedicures and waxing, to facials, body scrubs and wraps. Fancy a massage? Why not try their hot stone massage in the outdoor gazebo by the sea? Monique also offers a travelling spa service to many hotels and villas throughout St. Vincent & the Grenadines.

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The St. Vincent Experience Like many Caribbean capitals, much of the colour and bustle of the island can be found in the Market Square at the corner of Bay and Bedford Streets.

This is especially true on Fridays and Saturdays when the vendors bring in loads of fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and fish.

Photo: Wilfred Dederer

shopping& services.

The capital city of Kingstown is located in the southwestern part of the island, hugging a mile-wide swath of land on Kingstown Bay backed up by a ring of green hills and ridges. Nicknamed the “City of Arches”, Kingstown is full of old world charm with cobblestone sidewalks and old brick buildings.

The city consists of twelve small blocks that are easy to walk and perfect for browsing. Shops and stores range from simple to sophisticated, selling local crafts, books, cameras, binoculars, watches, crystal and bone china, gold and silver jewellery, Sea Island cotton and batik. Edwin D. Layne & Sons is a sizeable department store on Bay and Middle Streets where you will find everything from clothing and fabric, to building materials and electrical supplies. The Voyager (on Halifax Street) is one of only a few duty-free shops in town.

While hours of business vary from store to store, they generally open from 8am until noon, 1pm until 4pm on weekdays and half day on Saturdays. Banks normally open Monday to Thursday from 8am to 2pm and on Fridays 8am to 5pm.

If you are in need of provisions, C.K. Greaves Supermarket on Upper Bay Street is convenient and has probably the widest selection of products in town. They also operate Sunrise Supermarket (opposite the airport). Check with them about their delivery service to the docks.

Ferries to Bequia and the southern Grenadines load and off-load at the Grenadines Wharf, located at the southern end of Bay Street. The adjacent Cruise Ship Complex has docking facilities for yachts as well as large passenger ships. The well-stocked Gourmet Food operates a supermarket/café there (as well as a supermarket in Calliaqua), offering a wide variety of high quality frozen, deli, dry and canned food products and wines from all over the world. Here you will also find a number of shops carrying a range of local art and craft.

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Christine Wilkie

St. Vincent

The Market Square in Kingstown is brimming with life and authenticity, it doesn’t merely provide you with fresh produce, but with a real Vincy experience – every purchase is a transaction with a person, and each person has a comment or story to share, if you have the time.

For an excellent selection of freshly baked breads, cakes, pastries, croissants and the like, be sure to visit Nature’s Best Bakery in Arnos Vale.

Opposite the post office on Halifax St. is the old library which was donated by the famous American philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie. The new library has moved to Lower Long Lane and the lovely Carnegie Building is now shared by the St. Vincent National Trust and the Alliance Française.

Currency and Banking The official currency in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the Eastern Caribbean (EC) dollar, which is also used in several other islands in the region and is linked to the US dollar. The exchange rate will vary slightly depending on whether cash or traveller’s cheques are involved and whether you convert them at a bank or business establishment such as a hotel or restaurant. The normal range is between $2.60 and $2.68 EC to $1 US. The rate for other currencies fluctuates daily, but in addition to

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the US dollar, the British pound sterling and the Canadian dollar are widely accepted. US and Canadian dollars and traveller’s cheques are generally accepted in hotels and most places of business and credit cards are usually accepted at most hotels, business establishments and at some car rental companies.

Normal banking hours are Monday through Thursday from 8am until 2pm, although some banks now remain open until 3pm. On Fridays, most banks re-open from 3pm until 5pm. Hours are generally extended during Christmas, Easter and Carnival and may be affected by local holidays.

ATM machines are available at the National Commercial Bank, RBTT Bank, Scotiabank and FirstCaribbean International Bank.

Kingstown is the main financial and business centre where you will find the head offices of local, regional and international companies. There is an established offshore banking industry on the island and companies such as the St. Vincent & the Grenadines Offshore Finance Authority can provide you with essential information for the setting up of companies and trusts.

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Shopping & Services

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St. Vincent St. Vincent Distillers Ltd. P.O. Box 112, Kingstown, St. Vincent & The Grenadines Tel: 784-458 6221 Fax: 784-457 6361 e-mail: svdl@vincysurf.com www.sunsetrum.com Created by skilled craftsmen, these fine spirits, whose roots originated in the sugar cane regions of St. Vincent, eventually found a home at the Mt. Bentick Estates in the early 1900's. Here, nestled amid lush agricultural country, abundant in pure mountain water, generations of blendmasters have carefully reproduced these distinctive rums: forged by time in oaken barrels and sought after by true connoisseurs.

Gourmet Food Calliaqua and the Cruise Ship Berth, Kingstown, St. Vincent Tel: 784-456-2987 e-mail: gourmetfood@vincysurf.com Gourmet Food, originally from Sweden, offers a wide variety of high quality frozen, Deli, dry and canned food products from all over the world. They have three outlets: a supermarket in Calliaqua, supermarket/café at the Kingstown Cruise Ship Berth and at O'car in Bequia. Also available is an impressive selection of wines, beers, fruit juices and soft drinks. All products can be bought retail or wholesale, and discounts can be obtained when purchasing whole cases. Call for product prices and expert food advice. They also deliver free on a daily basis to the Grenadines ferries and plane services.

C.K. Greaves Supermarkets

Tel : 784 457 1074 Kingstown & Arnos Vale Fax: 784 456 2679 - Kingstown Fax: 784 458 4602 - Arnos Vale e-mail: ckgreaves@vincysurf.com At C.K. Greaves, they are proud to provide a variety of brands, imported and local. There are numerous food and grocery items to meet your family’s needs and tastes.

Visit C.K. Greaves Supermarkets where “We've got more of what you’re looking for".

Opening Hours for the Kingstown and Arnos Vale stores: Kingstown: Mon-Thurs 8am-5pm; Fri 8am-7pm and Sat 7am-pm Arnos Vale: Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm; Fri 8am-9pm; Sat 7am-8pm and Sun 8am-11am.

Breadfruit Recipes of SVG SVG Hotel & Tourism Association Tel: 784-458-4379 e-mail: svghotels@vincysurf.com This delightful cook book contains sixty creative and delicious breadfruit recipes with beautiful colour photographs. A lovely souvenir of St. Vincent & the Grenadines, it is available from bookstores throughout SVG, or directly from the SVG Hotel & Tourism Association’s office, located next to the restaurant, upstairs at the E.T. Joshua Airport.

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Shopping & Services

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Out of Town Shopping & Services Gourmet Food’s supermarket in Calliaqua carries an excellent selection of imported cheeses, exotic meat and seafood, along with a good range of other deli items. In the area you’ll also find Howards’ Marine who will handle your mechanical problems (they are the agents for OMC) and KP Marine, a general chandlery with an Internet café.

On the southern side of town is an area known as Villa. This is where you’ll find many of the island’s hotels, restaurants and bars along with a few nice boutiques. When in the area be sure to check out At Basil’s just across from Young Island. Here you’ll find a wonderful collection of bamboo furniture and exquisite accessories for the home imported from Asia and beyond. There is also a full service spa where clients can indulge in the pleasures of the Balinese spa therapies and products on offer. The adjoining café is near the water’s edge and provides the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and homemade goodies.

The beautifully appointed Oasis Spa (see page 45) is also situated in the Villa area, perched right on the coastline with the Caribbean Sea and Young Island as its backdrop. Owned and operated by qualified aesthetician, Monique Tash, the spa pampers clients with everything they need to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit. With private treatment rooms, they offer everything from manicures, pedicures and waxing, to facials, body scrubs and wraps. Fancy a massage? Why not try their hot stone massage in the outdoor gazebo by the sea? Monique also offers a travelling spa service to many hotels and villas throughout St. Vincent & the Grenadines.

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St. Vincent Vonnie Roudette

Our cover artist, Vonnie Roudette holds an MA from Manchester Metropolitan University, UK. She spent 3 years at Kyoto Arts University in Japan researching traditional aesthetics and worked for Japanese designer, Issey Miyake before returning to the UK to work as a freelance designer and part time art lecturer. Her recent series of expressive paintings about the natural landscape are accompanied by a wonderful book called The Nature of Belonging which is full of observations about local life and culture with an environmental message, and reveals much about quintessential Caribbean island culture.

Her work is currently exhibited in the Curator’s House at St. Vincent’s Botanical Gardens in Kingstown.

Vonnie can be contacted at (784) 494 4040 e-mail: wemustbemad@gmail.com

Robert Joyette

Dasrat Sugrim Design Centre Having earned an outstanding reputation in Barbados and Guyana, the Dasrat Sugrim Furniture Design Centre has now opened its doors to clients in St. Vincent & the Grenadines, specializing in the reproduction of antique furniture and custom designed pieces, as well as solid hardwood windows and doors.

Dasrat Sugrim, or “Persaud”, as he is familiarly known, left his country of birth, Guyana, and migrated to Barbados in the mid 1980s. Was it chance or circumstance that took Persaud away from pursuing a career in mechanical engineering to becoming an entrepreneur? This path started when, as a youngster, Persaud began working with a local antique refurbisher in Guyana creating the opportunity to develop his skills and insights into the antique furniture business. The “creation” of a four-poster bed for Barbadian artist and businessman Alfred Cobham, was the beginning of great things to come. The extremely positive media reviews following a Furniture and Arts Exhibition in 1991, where Persaud’s work was featured along with the work of several wellknown interior designers and artists, was the springboard to a unique antique furniture business that is second to none in the Caribbean.

There is no question that Persaud is a risk-taker, creative genius, result-driven and has the ability to deal with adversity.

When his business was destroyed by fire while holidaying in May 1999, he proved that he was down, but not out! Showcasing his work through several exhibitions put him right back into the driver’s seat. His work can be found in such places as Sandy Lane Hotel, Royal Westmoreland and the Crane Resort & Residences in Barbados. You will find no nails in his furniture other than those for decorative accents. At the Crane there are no less than 50 of his four-poster beds gracing the bedrooms – these beds are featured prominently in the Crane’s advertisements for their luxury suites and hotel rooms. Also included in the list of people to have these beautiful reproductions in their possession is former Prime Minister of Barbados, the Rt. Hon. Owen Arthur, MP. Persaud’s work has received national recognition in Barbados.

In 1995, Mr. Sugrim won the first (and last) Furniture Manufacturer of the Year Award, sponsored by the Barbados Manufacturing Association and Courts Barbados Ltd. Clients in St. Vincent & the Grenadines now have the opportunity to purchase these beautiful lifetime pieces that so many others cherish and enjoy!

Robert Joyette is a Vincentian by birth and a graduate of the Edna Manley College of Visual and Performing Arts in Jamaica. His ambition to become an artist was formed at the tender age of seven and he has pursued this passionately.

Joyette has exhibited widely in Jamaica and St. Vincent & the Grenadines and he has participated in exhibitions in Guyana and Suny Brockport University in New York City.

Tel: 784-531-4961 e-mail: robert_joyette2004@yahoo.com

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The Vincy Experience Carnival in St. Vincent is known as Vincy Mas – festivities include King and Queen of the Bands, Junior Carnival, Miss SVG, Miss Carnival, Steel Band and Calypso competitions and street parades. The 2011 festival runs from 24th June to 5th July – be sure to catch some of the action!

Photo: Kedisha Compton

restaurants& nightlife St. Vincent sports an eclectic range of dining options – from casual beachside grills and take-away pizza, to simple, local fare and the more elaborate, gourmet cuisine. Hotel restaurants are generally open to nonresident guests and further increase your choices.

Please note that reservations are always appreciated.

From modest roadside rum shops to delightful cafĂŠs and wine bars, from seaside to countryside, from casual to elegant, from quiet romance to lively entertainment, from quick snack to lavish buffet, from tasty local fare to cuisine with international flair, St. Vincent offers quite a diverse selection of restaurants from which to choose.

Along the Villa and Indian Bay strip is a delightful amalgam of local and international restaurants.

Moorings in the Young Island Cut and at Blue Lagoon make many of these easily accessible to yachtsmen.

In and around Kingstown you will also find great choices for tasty Caribbean cuisine.

A number of hotels feature live weekly entertainment with local steel bands and string bands. You would be wise to check with the venue before hand for up-to-date information.

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St. Vincent Flow Wine Bar James Street, Kingstown, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-0809 e-mail: flowinfo@flowwinebar.com

www.flowwinebar.com

Flow is an exciting new wine bar with a decidedly hip and urban feel.

For wine enthusiasts and craft beer fanatics they offer a global selection, with a food menu to satisfy any appetite. Flow has plenty of atmosphere – the chic, contemporary lounge is perfect for relaxing with friends, while the lighting, music and stylish furnishings add to the casual, yet upbeat atmosphere. With an attentive staff, free Wi-Fi access, and daily events and specials, Flow is a cosy escape. Perfect for special celebrations, holiday parties or corporate affairs.

Open Monday–Friday from 11am; Saturday & Sunday from 6pm.

Sunset Shores Villa, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4411 Fax: 784-457-4800 e-mail: sunshore@vincysurf.com www.sunsetshores.com Sunset Shores Restaurant is situated on beautiful Villa Beach, overlooking the sparkling Caribbean Sea. There is a daily chef’s special along with an extensive à la carte menu and wine list, featuring imported steaks, freshly caught fish, chicken entrées, lobster and shrimp. Crisp salads and perfectly prepared vegetables are always available as well as pastas and vegetarian dishes.

Saturday night barbecue and Sunday lunch from noon to 3:00pm.

Credit cards are accepted.

French Verandah Mariners Hotel, Villa Bay, St. Vincent Tel: 784-453-1111 Fax: 784-457-4333 e-mail: frenchverandah@vincysurf.com www.marinershotel.com Idyllically located directly on the water at Mariners Hotel, French Verandah offers delectable continental cuisine with a fusion of Caribbean flavours. Their wine cellar provides just the right selections to enhance your dining experience, while the friendly service and charming seaside setting make this restaurant a popular choice with locals and visitors alike. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Young Island Tel: 784-458-4826 Fax: 784-457-4567 e-mail: youngisland@vincysurf.com

www.youngisland.com

Young Island is a 35-acre island where a Carib chief once resided and as the story goes, gave it up to Sir William Young for a white horse. Little did he know that his island would in years become Young Island Resort, a tropical garden. You’ll soon find that life is casual, dress is informal but no shorts or T-Shirts for dinner please.

The only thing for you to do is make decisions at each meal of what you would like from the menu. Food is exquisite and there are six delicious breads to choose from.

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Restaurants & Nightlife )/%(# 0%(! '! (, &)/%(# -) %, )/!+ (!0 -$%(#, ).- %- - &)0 0! !&%!/! -$ )(&1 -$! *&! ,.+! )" - ,-%(# ( &! -) -$! +%#$- $)% ! &)0 -) ).+ ,!&! -%)( )" %(!, '*)+-! !!+, % !+, *%+%-, )) )""!!, ! ,

Subway Cnr. Sr. James St./Long Lane, Kingstown, St. Vincent Tel: 784-456-8900 Fax: 784-456-8700 e-mail: subwaysvg@gmail.com Visit the healthy quick service restaurant option in SVG!!

Enjoy an extensive menu while dining in a customer friendly atmosphere. Choose from a wide selection of Subway’s famous subs, fresh and healthy salads, freshly baked cookies and sensational breakfast options.

Be sure to stop in for a quick and healthy bite - Eat Fresh!!!

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St. Vincent Beachcombers Restaurant & Bar Villa Beach, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4283 e-mail: beachcombers@vincysurf.com Fax: 784-458-4385 www.beachcombershotel.com Beachcombers Hotel’s open-air beachfront restaurant, bar and pool deck is set in lush exotic gardens with a full à la carte menu featuring West Indian and International flavours. Serving the freshest seafood, vegetables and fruit, they are open everyday from 7:15am until last orders at 9:30pm. Royals, Prime Ministers, Presidents, Business persons, sports personalities and leisure seekers alike make Beachcombers Hotel, Bar and Restaurant their home away from home - hope you will do the same.

Wilkie’s Grand View Beach Hotel, Villa Point, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4811 Fax: 784-457-4174 e-mail: grandview@vincysurf.com www.grandviewhotel.com Wilkie’s is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The evening á la carte menu that changes daily is served from 6:30pm and features fresh seafood and poultry entrées, as well as the best imported steak, all served with an exotic blend of local vegetables and crisp green salads. Entrées range in price from EC $50 to $80. Wilkie’s offers yummy desserts and a small, well-selected wine list. Major credit cards are accepted. Reservations are preferred, particularly in season.

Grand View Grill Indian Bay, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-5487 Fax: 784-457-4174 VHF 68 e-mail: grandview@vincysurf.com www.grandviewhotel.com Located on Indian Bay Beach, specialising in grilled seafood, steaks, chicken and burgers, mouth-watering pizzas, pastas and baguette sandwiches and desserts to die for! On Fridays our authentic Jamaican Jerk makes us the real hot spot! A great place to meet old friends and make new ones while sipping a special seaside cocktail.

Wi-FI available. Open daily from 2:00pm. Closed on Mondays. Major credit cards accepted.

Rooftop Restaurant & Bar Cobblestone Inn, Bay Street, Kingstown, St. Vincent Tel: 784-456-1937 Fax: 784-456-1938 e-mail: cobblestone@vincysurf.com www.thecobblestoneinn.com A charming restaurant where both the food and the surroundings have a distinct Caribbean flavour. Situated on the top floor of the historic Cobblestone Inn on the Kingstown waterfront overlooking the harbour, the menu features a tasty mix of Caribbean and Continental cuisine, with a good selection of fresh fish, deliciously seasoned with local herbs and spices and served with market-fresh vegetables. Fresh fruit juices and a bountiful offering of local fruit makes breakfast at Rooftop a real treat. The casual, laid-back atmosphere, convenient location, reasonable prices and friendly staff make this restaurant a favourite with locals and visitors alike.

Open daily for breakfast and lunch.

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Restaurants & Nightlife Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge Barefoot Yacht Charters, Ratho Mill, St. Vincent Tel: (784)456-8999 Driftwood offers Mediterranean cuisine with a Caribbean flare. The menu integrates Italian style pizzas, salads, pastas, & grilled entrees with local flavours like breadfruit, callaloo, & jerk. Restaurant amenities include both an air-conditioned lounge and an outdoor dining terrace with panoramic views of Blue Lagoon.

Menu prices range from $15.00 to $75.00 EC and a complete bar service is available.

Sapodilla Room

Grenadine House, Kingstown, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-1800 Fax: 784-458-1333 e-mail: stay@grenadinehouse.com www.grenadinehouse.com The Sapodilla Room is considered one of the foremost fine dining venues in St. Vincent. Fine linens and table-wares are set in the elegant 18th Century room where the Chef and his team propose revealing compositions fusing Caribbean and Continental cuisines. An eclectic wine cellar perfectly complements the adventurous menu. The adjoining West Indies Bar provides a relaxed setting for aperitifs or after dinner drinks, with its gallery of black and white movie stills as a back-drop. A private dining room is available for up to 12 persons.

Basil’s Bar & Restaurant

Cobblestone Inn, Bay Street Kingtown, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-2713

www.basilsbar.com

Visitors to St. Vincent are invited to visit Basil’s Bar, located in Kingstown, in a lovely old 18th century building known as ‘Cobblestone’. Here you can enjoy delightful cocktails in airconditioned comfort – the staff are most welcoming and the meals are among the best on the island. Full catering services are now offered for private functions.

Open Monday through Saturday 8:00am until 10:30pm, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Monday - Friday Basil’s features an excellent luncheon buffet.

Paradise Restaurant

Paradise Beach Hotel, Villa Beach, St. Vincent Tel: (784) 457-4795 e-mail: info@paradisesvg.com www.paradisesvg.com Located at Paradise Beach Hotel on lovely Villa Beach, this charming restaurant sits at the water’s edge, overlooking the bay and the small islands just off shore. Enjoy the casual, relaxed atmosphere while their chef serves up a delightful choice of local cuisine with an international flair. Sunset cocktails and Happy Hour at the bar has become a tradition for both locals and visitors. Don’t miss Grillin’ with the Captain on Friday Nights, featuring their signature steak or fresh grilled lobster.

There is a full service spa on the premises, making it easy to enjoy an afternoon of pampering along with a delicious lunch or evening meal.

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The Vincy Experience All of the hotels and guest houses in St. Vincent are small and well-run, with the emphasis on friendly, personalised service.

Photo: Fanny Terrer/Irie Images

accommodation Running the gamut from guest houses and selfcatering apartments, to beachfront hotels and luxury all-inclusive resorts, accommodation in St. Vincent offers something for every taste and budget, whether you are a honeymoon couple, vacationing with the family or on a business trip.

The area around Villa and Indian Bay is a popular tourist district and many hotels and self catering apartments are situated here. Kingstown itself has several hotels including the Cobblestone Inn, while just outside town, in New Montrose, there are a number of hotels, apartments and guest houses. Venturing farther afield (and accessible only by boat) one finds the tranquil, eco-friendly resort at Petit Byahaut.

The St. Vincent & the Grenadines Hotel and Tourism Association (Tel: 784-458-4379) is a non-profit organisation, established in 1968 to encourage closer fellowship with hoteliers on the mainland and throughout the Grenadine islands, to promote good relations between hotels and business houses and to foster a good working relationship with the Government. Their website - www.svghotels.com - is easy to navigate and offers a wealth of information on all aspects of the island, including extensive information on all members’ establishments.

Additionally, the SVG Tourism Authority has recently launched their new website. Packed with useful information and innovative features, including event calendars, maps and handy information on each individual island.

The Ins & Outs website – www.insandoutsofsvg.com is the online version of this publication. It is an invaluable resource for anyone planning a trip to St. Vincent & the Grenadines and offers live links to all advertisers’ websites and e-mail.

For a synopsis of accommodation options, facilities, contact information and rates, see the Accommodation Guide on pages 140 - 143.

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St. Vincent Young Island Tel: 784-458-4826 Fax: 784-457-4567 e-mail: youngisland@vincysurf.com Reservations: Ralph Locke Islands - U.S. and Canada 800-223-1108 or UK & Europe: 0800 894057 Fax: 310-440-4220 e-mail: reservations@youngisland.com www.youngisland.com Young island is a 35-acre island where on the white sand beach there are chaise lounges and mattresses for sunbathers. There are hammocks hung under thatched roofs to give you that “man Friday” feeling where you can nap, read a book and forget about the outside world. Play tennis, windsurf, snorkel or just laze on a pedalo. Sit around the pool or have a dip. Walk around the island and gaze at the views. Go sightseeing on the mainland, the choice is all yours.

Breezeville Apartments Indian Bay, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4641 Fax: 784-457-4468 e-mail: frontdesk@villalodge.com

www.villalodge.com

Breezeville Apartments at Villa Lodge Hotel are located only 100 yards from Indian Bay Beach and 15 mins drive from the town centre.

They offer stylish 1 and 2 bedroom apartment suites, suitable for leisure and professional travellers, which include fully-equipped kitchen, dining/living area with sleeper sofa and a spacious bathroom. A complete list of amenities you expect from a first-class hotel include: Maid/Laundry Service, A/C, Ceiling Fans, Digital Safe, Alarm-Clock Radio, Hairdryer, Iron w/ board, Cable TV, and Free HighSpeed Wireless Internet.

The Cobblestone Inn Bay Street, Kingstown, St. Vincent Tel: 784-456-1937 Fax: 784-456-1938 e-mail: cobblestone@vincysurf.com www.thecobblestoneinn.com Situated on the waterfront of Kingstown overlooking the harbour.

The lush Vincentian scenery rises into the hills above the town forming a beautiful green backdrop to the peaceful harbour scene.

Ideally situated for the business traveller, the Cobblestone is located right in the heart of downtown Kingstown’s business district, fifteen minutes from the airport, or fifteen minutes to the beach! The hotel has 20 standard rooms and 6 suites, all with air-conditioning, Cable TV, private bath-room, WIFI and broadband Internet. The Rooftop Restaurant is situated on the third floor and serves the best in Caribbean Cuisine.

Hotel Alexandrina P.O Box 104, Prospect, St. Vincent Tel: 784-4569788 Fax: 784-456-9799 e-mail: hotelalexandrina@aol.com www.hotelalexandrina.com Perched on a hillside overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Hotel Alexandrina is located in a secluded area and tranquil setting nestled in a tropical garden surrounded with seasonal fruits. This modern and elegant 17-room apartment suite hotel is ideal for business travellers, retreats, family reunions, sport teams and other groups or simply for relaxation. A café, bar, conference room, fitness room, pool and FREE internet access are on premises. Just 10 minutes from the beach, 15 minutes from the airport and a few minutes walk to public transportation and supermarket.

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St. Vincent Mariners Hotel Villa Bay, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-4000 Fax: 784-457-4333 e-mail: frontdesk@marinershotel.com www.marinershotel.com Reservations: Ralph Locke Islands - U.S. & Canada: Tel: 800-223-1108 Fax: 310-440-4220 e-mail: caribisles@aol.com Tranquil and secluded, Mariners is idyllically situated on Villa Beach where guests enjoy magnificent sunsets. The 21 beautifully designed guest rooms are exquisitely furnished, each with private balcony, air-conditioning and all modern amenities. At the water’s edge, the popular French Verandah Restaurant features a wonderful blend of local and international cuisine. Complementary Wireless Internet & ADSL Internet Café. “Affordable Comfort”

Grand View Beach Hotel Villa Point, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4811 Fax: 784-457-4174 US: 1-800-223-6510, 1-800-742-4276 UK: 0870-530-0220 e-mail: grandview@vincysurf.com www.grandviewhotel.com Grand View Beach Hotel is situated at Villa Point with a commanding view of the Grenadines and beyond. Eight acres of tropical gardens surround the hotel. It offers 12 deluxe and 5 luxury rooms and 2 honeymoon suites, with privacy and warm, personalised service.

There are 2 fine restaurants, Wilkie’s and Grand View Grill, a racquet and fitness center, swimming pool, ADSL Internet in rooms and WI-FI in lobby and bar, cable TV, room service and a resident artist with painting studio.

J

ust one of our views.... with 19 rooms, 2 restaurants, 2 bars and freshwater pool and the big blue Caribbean Sea footsteps below. Escape to where the life is simple, but living is not. rand View Beach Hotel, St. Vincent and the Grenadines complete resort.

G

G r a n d Vi e w B e a c h H o t e l , P . O . B o x 1 7 3 , Vi l l a Po i n t , S t . Vi n c e n t & T h e G r e n a d i n e s Te l : 7 8 4 4 5 8 - 4 8 1 1 Fa x : 7 8 4 4 5 7 - 4 1 7 4 e-mail: grandview@vincysurf.com www.grandviewhotel.com US: 1-800-223-6510 1-800-742-4276 United Kingdom: (208) 604-2299 ●

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Accommodation

Paradise Beach Hotel Villa Beach, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-4795 e-mail: info@paradisesvg.com

www.paradisesvg.com

For Caribbean hospitality at its best, visit the Paradise Beach Hotel located on Villa Beach, just two miles from the airport and four miles from Kingstown. The tastefully decorated rooms and apartments offer ensuite bathrooms, airconditioning, wireless Internet, cable television and cellular phones. There is a beach bar, conference room, spa services, boutique and gift shop on the premises.

Enjoy Caribbean and International dishes in the dining room overlooking the ocean and visit their tour office for an exciting range of sea and land tours.

1

Complimentary Wireless Internet & ADSL Internet CafĂŠ

Ph: 784-457-4000 Fax:784-457-4333

Website: www.marinershotel.com Email: frontdesk@marinershotel.com

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St. Vincent Beachcombers Hotel Villa Beach, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4283 Fax: 784-458-4385 e-mail: beachcombers@vincysurf.com www.beachcombershotel.com A lovely family-run hotel nestled in a lush, tropical botanical garden.

The pool and deck overlook Villa Beach, the finest golden sand beach on St. Vincent. All rooms are tastefully decorated, cool and comfortable with ensuite bathrooms and covered patios.

There is also a health spa on the premises, where aromatherapy, facials, sauna, steam room and aerobics, relax and refresh guests.

Facilities include a business centre and internet café.

Sunset Shores Villa, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4411 Fax: 784-457-4800 e-mail: sunshore@vincysurf.com www.sunsetshores.com This 32-room beachfront hotel is nestled on three acres of lush tropical landscaped gardens. The accommodations are arranged in a “U” around a courtyard pool with bar.

All rooms are tastefully decorated, offering private bath, airconditioning, television, radio and direct dial telephone, each with your own private patio for complete relaxation.

Canash Beach Apartments Ratho Mill, St. Vincent Tel: 784- 456- 8528 or 784- 493- 3076 Fax: 784- 456- 2658 info@canashbeachapartments.com www.canashbeachapartments.com This welcoming beachfront property offers comfortable one-, twoand three-bedroom cottages and apartments, all fully equipped with modern amenities including cable TV, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, kitchen/kitchenette, private terrace/balcony and wireless Internet. There is a bar and restaurant on the property and a large swimming pool and sundeck. Laundry facilities and daily maid service. Snorkeling, diving and sailing establishments are all within easy proximity.

Seasplash Apartments Indian Bay, St. Vincent Tel: 784-431-1085 or 784-457-5017 Fax: 784-451-2777 info@seasplashapartments.com www.seasplashapartments.com Seasplash is a slice of paradise nestled in the Indian Bay valley, offering all the comforts of home. This friendly, family-run property features seven self-contained apartments set in a peaceful and tranquil environment just a few steps away from beautiful Indian Bay Beach, a lovely white sand beach washed by the Caribbean Sea. With rates starting at US$60.00/night Seasplash offers excellent value in a friendly and comfortable setting, just 15 mins. drive from the city and 5 mins. from the airport, with restaurants featuring local and international cuisine within easy walking distance.

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Accommodation

BEACH HOTEL

Island Hospitality At Its Very Best Nestled on three acres of lush tropical landscaped gardens is this 32-room beachfront hotel. The accommodations are arranged in a “U” around a courtyard pool with bar. All rooms are tastefully decorated, offering private bath, airconditioning, television, radio, and direct-dial telephone, each with your own private patio for your complete relaxation. There is a fully equipped conference facility seating up to 100 persons … perfect for your meetings and workshops.

Water sports are available just outside your door, and island tours, self-drive cars, sailing excursions, SCUBA diving, and other activities can be arranged by our friendly and experienced staff.

Our restaurant serves tantalizing cuisine combining continental and West Indian flavours and the lounge bar is famous for its own special rum punch,“the best on the island,” as well as other popular drinks.

Sunset Shores Beach Hotel … island hospitality at its best.

P.O. Box 849, Villa, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, W.I. Tel: 784-458-4411 Fax: 784-457-4800 www.sunsetshores.com sunshore@vincysurf.com

Lexington Services U.S. 800-767-1664 or 972-214-0585 Fax: 972-714-0271

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St. Vincent Rosewood Apartment Hotel Villa, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-5051 Fax: 784-457-5141 e-mail: rosewood@vincysurf.com www.rosewoodsvg.com This modern facility is located at Rose Cottage Villa, 2 miles from the Airport, 3 miles from Kingstown and 3 mins. walk to the beach. Easy access to public transportation. Our self-contained efficiency units are beautifully furnished, each opening onto a spacious patio with fantastic ocean views, offering comfort and relaxation. Rooms are air-conditioned, with private bath/shower, cable TV, telephone and kitchenette. "We offer daily maid service, laundry, fax, internet and free WIFI. You can enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at our Breakfast Nook. There are fine restaurants minutes away. Modern Fitness Centre closeby.

Grenadine House Kingstown, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-1800 Fax: 784-458-1333 e-mail: stay@grenadinehouse.com www.grenadinehouse.com Set in residential Kingstown Park, overlooking Kingstown towards the Grenadine Islands, Grenadine House offers elegant comfort to the discerning traveller in its well appointed guestrooms. Fully renovated and upgraded to meet today’s international standards, Grenadine House recently opened its doors to guests offering the best of Vincy hospitality. Their 20 Guestrooms include; Panoramic Views, Private Balconies, A/C, Direct Telephone, Free High-Speed Internet, Spacious Bathrooms, Choice Linen, Molton Brown Amenities, Room Service and more.

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Accommodation

Hillside Apartments Hillside Apartments are located just a short walk from Villa Beach and approximately eight minutes from the Airport. There are six selfcontained apartments. The apartments are fully furnished and include A/C, Cable TV, Wireless Internet and daily maid service. Breakfast bar and pool. Relax on the balcony as you take in the spectacular view of several of the Grenadine Islands.

Villa, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-5134 Fax: 784-457-4678 e-mail: hillside@vincysurf.com www.hillsideapartmentssvg.com

Phoenix Apartments

5 spacious, airy and comfortable apartments, with 9 rooms. Kitchen/Diner, lounge, private balcony, Cable TV. Ceiling Fans, token operated A/C. Walking distance to City Centre. Rooms up to 2 persons US$42 - Fans. Apartments up to 2 persons US$63 - Fans. Apartments up to 4 persons US$90 - A/C. All rates incl. Visa and Master Card accepted.

P.O Box 2308, Kingstown, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-9481 (fax) or 784-456- 7677 (evenings) e-mail: phoenixsvg@yahoo.com www.phoenixholapt.com U.K Contact: phoenixholapt@yahoo.com Tel 483-300-592

Sea Breeze Guest House This quaint family owned and operated guesthouse offers five rooms, (each with private bath and fan); shared kitchen and living room (with cable TV). Close to public transportation, airport, beach, cricket ground, capital city Kingstown and supermarkets.

Arnos Vale, P.O., St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4969 e-mail: seabreezetours@vincysurf.com www.seabreezenaturetours.com

James Apartments Six self-contained rooms with standing fans and television - spacious, comfortable and very affordable. Just 10 minutes drive from the airport, 5 minutes drive from the capital, Kingstown. Very easy access to public transportation. Mini Mart downstairs.

Tel: 784-457-8147 or 784-457-7157

Richview Guest House Ideally located within close proximity to the airport, town and beach. The 14 tastefully furnished rooms comprise kitchenettes, living room, patio, cable, TV, A/C, fans and maid service. Great value packages include FREE airport transfers and continental breakfast.

Perfect for singles, couples, families and groups.

Sion Hill Bay, St. Vincent Tel: 784-482-9500 or 784-533-4137 e-mail: richview06@yahoo.com www.richviewguesthouse.com

Kings Inn An elegant bed-and-breakfast with five airconditioned, cable TV equipped bedrooms.

Located near to the main road and Villa Beach and 2 miles from the Airport. And the view?

Simply magnificent.

Villa, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-4086 USA 973-966-1656 Fax: USA 973-966-0317 e-mail: kingba@aol.com www.kingsinn-svg.com

Ridgeview Terrace Apts Offers a choice of studio or deluxe apartments.

Your personal haven in paradise includes: • Wireless Internet • Cable Television • A/C bedrooms • Personal Sun Terrace • Kitchenette(studio)/Kitchen (apartment) • Lounge & Dining area (apartment) • Security and Maid Service

Ratho Mill, P.O. Box 804, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4605/457-4153 Fax: 784-457-5959 e-mail: rojen@vincysurf.com www.ridgeviewterrace.com

Sky Blue Beach Apts

Tranquillity Beach

These self-contained, air-conditioned apartments are just a cool two-minute walk to the beach, ten minutes from Kingstown and five minutes from the airport. All rooms feature A/C, Telephone, Cable TV and daily maid service.

Recreation: Mini Golf Course.

Located on beautiful Indian Bay Beach, each of the seven comfortable private apartments features a fully equipped kitchen, private bath, a/c, fans, TV, wireless internet, daily maid service and a verandah with unobstructed sea views.

Indian Bay, St. Vincent Tel: 784-457-4394 Fax: 784-457-5232 e-mail: skyblue@vincysurf.com www.skybluebeach.com

Indian Bay Beach, St. Vincent Tel: 784-458-4021 e-mail: lucelle@tranquillityhotel.com www.tranquillityhotel.com

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The Bequia Experience Bequia possesses a rare and distinctly unique charm, characterized by the genuine warmth and friendliness of its people, a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere and a general evasion of anything associated with “the fast lane�.

Fishing boats resting on Friendship Bay beach Wilfred Dederer

bequia Lying just nine miles to the south of St. Vincent, Bequia is the largest of the Grenadine islands – a compact seven square miles with about 5,000 warm and friendly inhabitants eager to welcome visitors. The island’s history has been deeply entwined with the sea for generations and the age-old traditions of boat building, fishing and whaling are still evident.

The island caters well to visitors and, despite its size, goes far beyond the usual prerequisites of a tropical island holiday.

A Brief History Bequia, along with the other Grenadine islands, appears to have first been inhabited around 200AD by superbly skilled pottery-making Amerindians (referred to by archaeologists as “Saladoid”), who originated from the South American mainland. Successive migrations of other groups from the mainland followed, until a final migration by the Caribs shortly before the arrival of Columbus in the Antilles. This resulted in the descendants of the earliest inhabitants being ultimately over-run and a new, culturally mixed population emerged.

Interestingly, it was the Caribs who gave Bequia its name – “Becouya”, meaning “Island of Clouds”, and from whom the Europeans also inherited words like hurricane, canoe and hammock.

When the French seized Grenada from the Caribs in 1650, they also took control of the Grenadine islands from Carriacou in the south to Bequia in the North. St Vincent, however, which was then home to an estimated 10,000 Caribs, remained technically "neutral", with fierce resistance from its indigenous people deterring any European settlement until the early 18th century.

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Wilfred Dederer

Bequia

Boat building remains an honoured calling whether in life, or miniature size, using tools and techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation

In French-controlled Bequia, a tiny handful of French settlers– most probably from Grenada–began to set up lime and indigo works from around 1720. By the time of the Treaty of Paris in 1763, when the French ceded Grenada and the Grenadines to the British along with "neutral" St. Vincent, cotton and cocoa were also being produced on the island. After brief recapture by the French in 1779, the Treaty of Versailles finally returned St. Vincent and its Grenadine islands to the British in 1783.

From the mid 1760s onwards, sugar was to be the major crop under cultivation on Bequia, with cotton remaining an important secondary crop for small holders. By 1827 there were nine sugar plantations on Bequia, employing just over 1,300 slaves.

Although there were also numerous smallholdings growing cotton and other cash crops, the majority of people on Bequia,

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from the slaves to the 100 or so “poor white settlers”, were engaged in some aspect of sugar production and its export.

Hastened by emancipation, the decline in sugar production– and population–in the mid 1800s led the 900 or so remaining Bequia inhabitants to turn to the sea for their survival. The island’s outstanding natural harbour tucked deep into Admiralty Bay, and richly stocked waters made it a perfect location for the widespread development of marine skills – fishing (including whaling), boat building and navigation. Bequia enjoys the distinction of having once been pre-eminent in the region’s whaling industry in the last quarter of the 19th century. It’s no surprise that many of its inhabitants today can trace their heritage to two of the island’s great whaling patriarchs, Joseph Ollivierre and William Wallace Jr., whose whaling stations on

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Bequia quite literally saved the life of the island and its people.

William Thomas (“Old Bill”) Wallace introduced whaling to Bequia around 1870 after spending an apprenticeship on a New England whaleboat. He subsequently purchased two secondhand Yankee whaleboats to start his whaling operation; one of them, the much revered “Iron Duke”, still exists today and is one of the favourite contenders at the annual Bequia Easter Regatta.

Under international agreement, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been granted aboriginal whaling rights by the International Whaling Commission because it is considered a true cultural tradition, providing food for the islanders.

It allows Bequia’s small group of whalermen to harpoon no more than four whales per year. If a whale is caught, the entire island comes out to get their portion of the catch and share in the many exciting versions of the fishing tales told.

Individualism and resourcefulness still flourish here; the sea and maritime activities will always be the lifeblood of the island and its people. Boat building remains an honoured calling whether in life, or miniature size, using tools and techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation.

In 1979, St. Vincent and the Grenadines gained independence within the British Commonwealth. Bequia, and the rest of the Grenadines, is governed from the “mainland” island of St. Vincent whose governmental system is based on the Westminster-style of parliamentary democracy.

For many years, Bequia could only be reached by sea and it continues to be a favourite destination for yachtsmen from around the world. Vessels of all shapes and sizes fill the harbour, from luxury yachts and motorised boats to old wooden schooners and small cruise ships.

The opening of the J.F. Mitchell Airport in 1992 has made the island far more accessible, with regular scheduled and charter flights from Barbados.

Bequia has enormous appeal and although visitor traffic has increased in recent years, the island remains relatively untouched. Here, change takes place at a snail's pace without altering the magic and charm which prevails on this dazzling, sun-drenched little isle.

Wilfred Dederer

Bequia

St. Michael’s Catholic Church sits on a hillside in the old village of Hamilton

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Wilfred Dederer

Bequia

The Bequia museum takes shape on a slope overlooking Friendship Bay where many of the island’s master boat-builders crafted vessels of all shapes and sizes between the 1920s and 1960s. Inset: Carroll Rooth of the Moonhole Foundation writes a cheque to aid in the completion of the museum which is scheduled to open in February 2011

Glimpses of Bequia’s Maritime History

Courtesy Pat Mitchell

‘By leaps and bounds’ well describes the progress on Bequia’s upcoming boat museum, that is, if you include several enforced ‘rests’ between some of those leaps and bounds. But good news: just when work had to be stopped, again, because of that old bugbear, shortage of funds, new donors appeared. This worthwhile project, on the land above Friendship Bay belonging to the Bequia Heritage Foundation, is at last on track for completion.

An old photograph of a Bequia-built boat being launched – an event which always drew large crowds from all over the island

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The trustees hope that eventually a comprehensive museum for Bequia’s history – from Amerindian times to the present day – will grace this most accessible and scenic site. From stone tools and clay pots, to early maps and photographs, to agricultural and boatbuilding implements, there is much to give us an insight into the survival and character of this small island. The Bequia Heritage Foundation is collecting and storing as much as possible.

The open-sided building now under construction is just a start, but it will allow the preservation of four historic boats of the region, a blackfish boat from the Mainland, a Bequia whaleboat, a Carib dug-out canoe and a Bequia sailing dinghy.

Someday, hopefully, other buildings on the same site will showcase many other aspects of Bequia’s history. The panoramic view overlooking Friendship Bay towards Isle a Quatre, Canouan and Mustique will make this an ideal spot for visitors and Bequians alike to contemplate the surprising vitality of life witnessed by this small dot in the ocean.

The trustees of the Bequia Heritage Foundation thank every one of the many

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by Pat Mitchell

good friends whose donations got the project this far. In 2010 Mark Houlton and Penny Douglas, yearly visitors from the U.K., showed their faith most generously, as did the Moonhole Foundation (for the second time). Most recently, the Grenadines Partnership has turned over a cheque for US$10,000 which hopefully will complete the roof.

If you are interested in Bequia’s history, the trustees invite you to take a look at the work in progress. They would most gratefully add your name to the list of donors – you can be sure that all donations, whether large or small, are truly valued.

The trustees look forward to an opening ceremony in February, 2011. If you are in Bequia at this time, be sure to join them if you can.

For further information and to make donations, please contact one of the trustees listed below: • Herman Belmar (784) 458 3514 • Pat Mitchell (784) 458 3800 • Wendy Leighton (784) 457 3681 • Owen Belmar (784) 458 3318 • Louise Mitchell Joseph (784) 453 1722

a Bequian

Photos: Wilfred Dederer

Meet

Lacey (at left) has raced in Bequia’s Easter Regatta for 30 years – he is pictured here receiving a special prize for the regatta’s ‘Oldest Competitor’

Lacey Leslie - a true son of Bequia seas

by Lesley Quashie In the quiet shade of a wooded Mount Pleasant hillside, or on a Bequia shore readying a small boat to sail down island, meet Mr. DeLacey Leslie. Born in 1926, ‘Uncle Lacey’ is a true son of the Grenadines seas, and one whose story is that of a whole generation of Bequia fishermen – except at a nimble 84 years of age he’s sailing still. He’s a son too of the soil upon which his Scottish grandfather stepped in the 1800’s, founding another branch of the ancient Clan Leslie and bringing with him a solid work ethic, an ear for music (his ‘Country Relatives’ play on today) and no doubt an eye that sparkled to see such a pretty isle.

Uncle Lacey’s eyes shine too as he tells his story that begins with boy days atop Mount Pleasant and the long walk to the Harbour school–unless lucky enough to “hop the donkey”.

Bequia then was lively with boat building and young Lacey who “need see a thing only once to know it”, observed sloops and schooners take shape. He left school to continue this apprenticeship with his uncle William Gooding and between times sailed with his father Captain Hughie aboard schooners

trading through the southern Caribbean. “You think them old time fellas easy? Na!” he exclaims. Hard work indeed, being sent aloft in all weathers, but Lacey soon learned the joy of comradeship and each voyage was training for his keen navigator’s eye.

The 1940’s war-time cycles of seasons brought schooner voyages to Aruba and Guyana, boats to build, crops to plant, fish to catch. Good times? Every Bequian who remembers agrees “there weren’t much money” then, but goes on to describe a life of abundant wealth – the wealth of jokes and laughter, of laden mango trees, warm penny bread, Christmas time with guitars and cuatros serenading house to house, fresh ground corn, beautiful fish, stories shared with neighbours.

Into the ‘50s, the guitar was put away as Mr. Leslie became a family man, father of seven children of whom, now grown, he speaks proudly. He built their family home and workshop out back and became a respected builder of double-ender fishing boats. Then, as now, building began with a trip into the bush for perfectly curved tree limbs for the boat’s stem and stern; planks too were local timber. So was the 18-foot Devine built, the first boat that Lacey called his own and who, 49 years later, still sails on.

Then, she was his fishing boat in the years of ‘cays life’.

Putting tools aside Lacey would sail with other Bequia men for weeks of fishing among the community of small islands between here to Tobago. Well provisioned, they’d leave at dawn for good fishing grounds and a sandy shore on which to pitch a tent of boat sails. No engines, just life under sail, teamwork, free-diving for lobsters and fish. Or sometimes, Lacey would sail alone to Tobago in his small open boat, with just a compass pointing the way at night, 20 hours non-stop.

Our Bequia men were well liked in those southern islands where kinfolk waited, with a pot of vegetables, to cook for the men with fish they’d bring to share. “Here come the sea-shoe boys!” was the call on Mayreau, when people first saw swimming fins. On the nature sanctuary of Little Tobago, Lacey was, for a moment, not so welcome. Accused of trespassing, he demanded the police find him ‘alternative accommodation’ for the night, then returned the following day with a letter from the Governor General granting the Bequia fishermen the right to camp there.

Sailing on, Devine has raced in the Bequia Easter Regatta for almost 30 years and Uncle Lacey has become a much-admired skipper, competing alongside Shamu and Challenger, both of which he built, and the classic Arrow (his same age) which he extensively repaired. In Devine he was one of the first skippers across the starting line at Carriacou’s inaugural Regatta and has raced in all but one of their past 35 events. Carriacou and more specifically its tiny offshore island JackAdam, is like a second home where he’s always camped, and that “…they say they’ll give to me; I think they joking!” When we shared these stories Lacey had just sailed back from a week there, sleeping in his tent and fishing from the shore. This 84 year-old who’s seen so much, spoke still with wonder of baby turtles that hatched before his eyes; how did they know to quickly head for the sea? It is that same sea that draws this Bequian back again and again, loving that “…out there you’re free. There’s no other work you have to be doing…. just go with the wind.”

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The Bequia Experience Beyond the lovely beaches, quaint, little villages and charming waterfront bars and shops, there is plenty to fill your days in Bequia.

Lower Bay has a stretch of on-shore reef at one end, which provides an area of shallow pools along the shoreline making it especially suitable for children Wilfred Dederer

island

adventures Take time to explore Bequia... visitors are often surprised that on an island of only seven square miles if you scratch the surface a little, you’ll discover that beneath lies an intriguing history, a fascinating natural environment, and above all, a wonderfully, charming human element.

Getting Around Whether on land, or on the sea, Bequia has a bountiful array of places to explore and a dependable range of transportation options available for getting around the island.

Taxis are widely used for getting around and the island has a reliable, if not unique fleet of open-backed taxis. The operators are known for their friendliness and courtesy, and during the day you can usually find them gathered “under the almond tree” in the harbour sporting colourful, often amusing names like “Challenger”, “Fat Man” and “Jump In”. Most, if not all, taxi drivers carry cell phones so remember to ask for a business card if you'd like to use them again. They also operate with VHF radios and can be reached on channel 68.

Many taxis offer two to three hour island tours – complete with running commentary! Rates are fixed and are listed in the Bequia Tourism Association Office, but it's always sensible to check the fare beforehand. Visitors often choose to use the same taxi driver throughout their stay - many lasting friendships have been built this way!

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Bequia “Dollar Vans” are closed-in mini vans which have a regular "run" to most parts of the island. Often crowded and rarely without onboard music, they easily represent the cheapest way to get around.

The main setting down point in Port Elizabeth is by the ferry dock and you can enquire at the nearby Tourism Office for the routes. The normal "stops" are unmarked, so look out for people gathered by the road, or simply hail one as it approaches and ask them if they are going your way! Fares are collected once on board and vary from EC$1.50 to EC$5 per person depending on the length of journey.

Water taxis can be found along the waterfront in Admiralty Bay. They also monitor VHF channel 68 and provide a pick-up and dropoff service to the yachts in the bay. They will also deliver passengers to the beaches at Lower Bay and Princess Margaret and can usually be found around the dinghy docks at Frangipani, Gingerbread and in Port Elizabeth. The cost is about EC$20 one way to the beaches, less for a trip across the harbour.

Hiring a vehicle is an excellent idea as this allows you to explore at your own pace. A Visitor Driving Permit (EC$100) must first be obtained from the Revenue Office in Port Elizabeth, where you will be asked to present your own National Drivers Licence or a full International Drivers Licence.

Port Elizabeth is built along the waterfront of Admiralty Bay and into the rising hills surrounding it. A number of brightly coloured shops, houses, restaurants, small hotels and guest-houses complete the captivating scene. While strolling around the harbour, look out for the “House of Parliament”, this is the name given to the area under the almond trees, where the taxis assemble to collect and deposit their passengers. Bequians of all walks of life gather here daily to discuss the topic of the moment, usually politics or some colourful island gossip. Discussions can be loud and passionate, deviating quickly and unpredictably, often interspersed with boisterous bouts of laughter.

The Belmont Walkway meanders along the waterfront of Admiralty Bay starting at the popular Porthole Restaurant and Bar in Port Elizabeth and weaving its way south, past Tommy Cantina, where you can get the best Margaritas in town, and the Frangipani Hotel, a favourite hang-out and watering hole for all visitors to Bequia – their Thursday night barbecue and “jump-up” is a not-tobe-missed event. Fondly referred to as “Frangi”, it is the original birth place and family home of Sir James “Son” Mitchell, the former Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

As the walkway winds its way along the shoreline, you will pass the Whaleboner with its impressive whale bone archway and Pat Mitchell’s splendid Gingerbread Hotel, with its pretty façade of intricate “gingerbread” fretwork. In addition to the delightful restaurant upstairs which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the complex also features a lovely café serving freshly brewed coffee, tea and a wonderful selection of devine breads and cakes. They also have wireless Internet, so you can enjoy your coffee while checking in with the outside world! The Bequia Health Centre, run by Dani Mansfield, is just nextdoor to the Gingerbread Café, so you can now also enjoy a full range of spa treatments as well: heavenly massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and a whole range of holistic physiotherapy treatments. Dani also offers a “mobile service” to yachts, private villas and hotels.

Two of Bequia’s best dive shops, Dive Bequia and Bequia Dive Adventures are located just beyond the Gingerbread Hotel. Bequia has some of the best dive sites in the entire Caribbean, so why not take the plunge? Stop by and enquire about their one-day resort dive courses–you won’t regret it!

A number of inviting and inexpensive little bars and restaurants pop up all along the walkway. For really delicious rotis and local food, stop by The Green Boley. Just a stone’s throw away is the legendary Mac’s Pizzeria, serving the best pizza around.

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A number of inviting little bars and restaurants are dotted along the Belmont Walkway which meanders along the waterfront of Admiralty Bay Wilfred Dederer

Wilfred Dederer

Bequia

Many a Bequia boat has taken shape along the shores of Friendship Bay, including the Friendship Rose, which operated as the ferry between Bequia and St. Vincent for 20 years

Guarding the harbour at the far end of the bay and offering panoramic views of Port Elizabeth all the way around to Lower Bay and beyond is the site of Hamilton Fort, built in the late 18th century. On this side of Admiralty Bay you’ll also find the outstanding L’Auberge des Grenadines Restaurant, where you are guaranteed a fabulous meal! Owners, Jacques and Eileen are celebrating 21 years in the restaurant business this year, and it’s the only restaurant in Bequia with a live lobster pool, so their lobster is always guaranteed fresh during lobster season, and out of season, they serve fresh St. Vincent river lobster.

On the south-east coast is beautiful Friendship Bay and St. Hillary Point, where many a Bequia boat has taken shape along the shores, including the Friendship Rose, which operated as the ferry between Bequia and St. Vincent for 20 years. She is now on a more “relaxed” schedule of day trips to the neighbouring islands. This sheltered and shady bay offers good snorkeling, scuba and windsurfing conditions. Excellent meals and cold drinks are available at the Blue Tropic Café and Bagatelle Restaurant located in the lovely Bequia Beach Hotel.

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The new Bequia Heritage Museum, scheduled to open in February 2011, is located on a slope overlooking Friendship Bay and houses an interesting collection of Bequia boats from a bygone era. Just west of Friendship Bay is the peak that locals sometimes call “The Mountain”. This nearly 900-ft hill offers an invigorating hike to the reward of a splendid view of St. Vincent to the north and the Grenadines to the south.

Further along this winding road is the quaint and colourful fishing community of Paget Farm and the James F. Mitchell International Airport which was erected in 1992. Just about a mile past the airport is Moonhole, the extraordinary creation of American, the late Tom Johnston. A private development of over twenty imaginatively built, “free-form” homes that cling to the natural curves of the hillside. There are no windows, no doors – just openings. The ceilings and walls tend to go their own way, no straight lines, some even have trees growing right in the living room!

Along the east coast you’ll find the windswept beaches of Spring, Industry and Park – a stretch of often deserted coastline,

The charming Firefly Plantation Hotel offers wonderful tours which give a fascinating insight into the history of the 225 year old Spring Plantation

Keith Miller

shaded by countless coconut palms – excellent for picnics, snorkeling and windsurfing (beware of strong currents).

Firefly Plantation Hotel is a charming boutique hotel situated on the grounds of a 225 year old, 30-acre working plantation. The "Great House", where the bar and restaurant are now located, is built on the foundation of the 18th century sugar plantation's great house. Plantation Tasting Tours of the estate are now being offered, giving visitors an excellent insight into the fascinating history of the old Spring Plantation and the adjoining sugar mill and indigo processing plant.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to sample many of the seasonal fruits and vegetables, and learn about the various crops, herbs and flowers you will encounter.

The Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary is located just beyond Industry, at Park Beach. Here, “Brother” King nurtures over 200 endangered Hawksbill turtles, of all sizes, until they are able to fend for themselves in the open ocean.

When you’ve had your fill of exploring on land, be sure to take advantage of one of the fascinating day cruises operating out of Bequia on the lovely old Bequia schooner, the Friendship Rose – visit the neighbouring islands of Mustique, the Tobago Cays, or the Falls of Baleine on the leeward coast of St. Vincent.

Photo: Cooltide Interactive/Courtesy Firefly Plantation Hotel

Island Adventures

For over 12 years Orton “Brother” King of the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary has been doing his part to save the Hawksbill turtle from extinction. He monitors the beaches, checking nests and protecting mother turtles and their eggs from poachers. Hatchlings are collected and kept at the sanctuary where they are nurtured until they are about 3 years old (14 inches long) - the most vulnerable years of their life.

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Bequia Beaches & Anchorages

De Reef Beach Bar & Restaurant Lower Bay, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3958

VHF 68

Located at the water’s edge, on one of Bequia’s most beautiful beaches. This friendly bar and restaurant serves tasty, reasonably priced lunches and in the evenings they offer three-course dinners by reservation only. The menu includes sandwiches, chicken and seafood – their warm Conch Souse is considered by many to be the best on the island! Lower Bay offers some of the best swimming and snorkeling around making De Reef a popular hangout for both visitors and locals alike. Live entertainment most Sunday afternoons. Kayaks available for rent.

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The main port of entry in Bequia is Port Elizabeth in Admiralty Bay – a picturesque bay if ever there was one, and a popular anchorage with yachtsmen from all over the globe. It is considered one of the best harbours in the Caribbean because of its deep “U” shape, calm, clear water and ample depth, allowing large boats to come very close to shore for repair and general maintenance. When mooring in the bay, be sure to stay clear of the ferry route to the jetty in Port Elizabeth and check with the local authorities for certified moorings and garbage disposal.

There are excellent marine services to be found in and around Port Elizabeth with convenient dinghy docks located at Frangipani, Gingerbread, the former Plantation House, and in Port Elizabeth itself where there is easy access to showers, laundry services, Internet facilities and grocery stores. There is a very good docking facility at Bequia Marina, now the home of Trade Winds Cruise Club, where water, fuel, ice and other marine essentials can be easily obtained and loaded directly onto your vessel.

Princess Margaret Beach (also known as Tony Gibbons Beach) is a popular and generally safe anchorage with a lovely beach and calm, clear water. A new dinghy dock makes it an effortless drop-off point for water taxis. At the far end of the bay there is a natural rock archway leading into a small, sheltered cove. Take a picnic lunch or grab a bite at Jack’s Bar. One of Bequia’s best beaches lies just beyond at Lower Bay, a long stretch of pure white sand with crystal clear water, excellent for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. A good daytime anchorage, though occasionally subject to swells. A stretch of onshore reef provides an area of shallow pools along the shore making it especially suitable for children. Beware of the poisonous manchineel trees and the yellow-green “apples” strewn along the beach. Contact with the leaves, branches or fruit will cause severe blistering. Situated in the middle of the bay is De Reef Beach Bar & Restaurant, a long-time favourite with locals and visitors alike. They offer a simple, reasonably priced menu of tasty local dishes. On Sundays there is a particularly lively atmosphere, often accompanied by live music. If you are in search of a break from the hot midday sun, visit Claude Victorine’s Art Studio (call first, 458-3150), it’s just up the hill at the end of the bay. On display are Claude’s unique hand-painted creations on silk.

Friendship Bay, on the south-east side, is a short distance over the hill from Lower Bay. This sheltered bay has lots of shade, provides a secure anchorage for yachts and offers excellent snorkeling, scuba and windsurfing conditions. Lunch and drinks are available at the Blue Tropic Café and Bagatelle Restaurant, both in the Bequia Beach Hotel, just steps away from the water’s edge.

The more wind-swept beaches at Ravine, Hope, Spring and Industry, along the eastern coastline, have ample shade and make excellent picnic spots. Dawn’s Creole Restaurant is now located on this side of the island, at the Crescent Beach Inn – it is an excellent choice for lunch.

While Spring and Industry are easily reached by road, Hope is more remote and you should be prepared for the rough, downhill hike to the beach (and back up again). Caution should be taken when swimming along this coast as there can be a strong undertow at times.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Bequia Caribbean Schooner Cruises Friendship Rose - 100ft Local Classic Sailing Schooner Tel: 784-495-0886/9 e-mail: friendshiprose@mac.com www.friendshiprose.com Discover the Grenadines with The Friendship Rose. Daily cruises to the Tobago Cays, Mustique and the tropical coast of St. Vincent.

Dive or snorkel the Tobago Cays, sip Champagne at Mustique, escape along St. Vincent’s tropical coastline and visit Disney’s ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ movie locations.

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and cake, with drinks all day – all included. Cruise packages also available combining villa and hotel accommodation, inter-island connections and a selection of day cruises throughout the Grenadines.

Sail Relax Explore Tel: 784-495-0886/9 or 784-457-3888 e-mail: sailrelaxexplore@mac.com www.sailrelaxexplore.com Yacht Charter and Day Cruises… from unique local boats and speedboats to crewed luxury yachts. Specialising in Short Grenadines Charters and Speedboat Adventure Days with picnics, snorkeling and diving; flights can be arranged throughout the Grenadines. Choose from a selection of Bareboat or Crewed Yachts, Catamarans, Monohulls, Traditional Sailing Schooners and a range of Speedboats.

This friendly team help get you out on the water – for a day or longer…

Bequia Dive Adventures Tel: 784-458-3826 Fax: 316-221-6038 VHF 68/16 e-mail: adventures@vincysurf.com

www.BequiaDiveAdventures.com Experienced dive instructors, Ron and Laury have been diving these waters for many years and are familiar with the best sites in the area.

A full service PADI facility with 11 PADI specialties, they focus on small group dives with the emphasis on personalised service, catering to the individual needs of each diver. They offer a free introductory PADI “Discover Scuba” course along with various dive packages; snorkeling trips can also be arranged. Snorkeling and scuba equipment rentals available. Situated on the beach, right next door to Mac’s Pizzeria. 3 Dives Daily – 9.00am, 11.30am and 2.30pm.

Dive Bequia Belmont, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3504 Cell: 784-495-9929 VHF 16/68 e-mail: cathy@bequiadive.com www.bequiadive.com Dive Bequia has been operating on Bequia for over 25 years and together their international staff have a wealth of diving experience.

It is Bequia’s only PADI Gold Palm Resort (awarded to dive shops who excel in providing quality services to travelling divers). Patient instructors and dive masters offer outstanding service to beginners and experienced divers. Families are welcome. “Discover Scuba” can be tried from 10 years old. They also arrange snorkel trips for non-divers who want to accompany diving partners/families.

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The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Island Adventures Bequia Health Centre Annetta Tobierre

Massage therapist and Beautician Tel: 784-530 6123 Andrea Batterman MCSP HPC MRSS, Chartered Physiotherapist & Shiatsu Practitioner Tel: 784-528-2525 Cristina, Light therapy & Healing for all stages Tel:784-458-3196 info@bequiahealthcentre.com www.bequiahealthcentre.com The Bequia Health Centre has a well-earned reputation among residents and visitors alike, including a number of well-known celebrities. The treatments are not only luxurious, they also complement the holistic approach to wellness. Specialising in weight loss treatments, lymphatic drainage & sports deep tissue, clients can also indulge in exquisite face and body treatments. Physiotherapy & Shiatsu are also offered on site

by Andrea Batterman. Cristina offers healing of the physical, spiritual, mental & social well being at any stage or level. A mobile service is available to hotels, villas and yachts throughout SVG. Open Tues to Sat 10am–7pm. (Mon. & Tues. by appointment only.)

Firefly Plantation Tasting Tours Spring, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3414 e-mail: anita@fireflybequia.com

www.fireflybequia.com

A unique (and tasty) one of a kind experience to see a real Caribbean plantation. Discover 30 acres of orchards producing oranges, grapefruit, bananas, breadfruit, guava, Bequia plums, mangoes and a variety of wonderful and exotic crops.

Guided tour of the plantation and historic sugar mill lasts approx 45mins and includes a brief history. You will get to sample many of the fruits and vegetables in season and learn about coconuts, bananas and uses of the various herbs and flowers you will see.

Bookings suggested. Children welcome.

Sunset Tours Moke & Jeep Rentals Paget Farm, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3782 or 784-457-3086 Mobile: 784-530-6833 or 784-593-3631 e-mail: sunrisebequia@yahoo.com Sunset Tours offers well-maintained, automatic or manual, airconditioned jeeps, or open-air mini mokes perfect for touring the island. They will deliver to the airport, ferry dock or directly to your hotel or villa. Explore the island on your own, or let Sunset Tours assist you with self-guided tours. A Visitors Driving Permit must first be obtained from the Revenue Office in Port Elizabeth at a cost of EC$100. You will be asked to present your own National Drivers Licence or a full International Drivers Licence.

Jump In Taxi Service Paget Farm, Bequia Tel: 784-457-3086 Mobile: 784-530-6833 or 784-593-3631 e-mail: sunrisebequia@yahoo.com Operated by Bequian brothers, Raleigh and Brendon Bynoe, Jump In Taxi offers prompt, reliable and courteous service – whether it’s a trip to the beach or a trip to the shops. They also offer comprehensive tours of Bequia, including scenic trips to the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, Moonhole and the traditional fishing village of Paget Farm.

If you let them know in advance they will meet you at the airport or ferry pier. Call for more details.

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in Paradise

Photos: Wilfred Dederer/Courtesy A Caribbean Wedding

Weddings

Tying the Knot in St. Vincent & the Grenadines Over the years, St. Vincent and the islands of the Grenadines have become a popular choice for destination weddings. As a result, there are now a number of professional wedding coordinators, catering companies and photographers, along with a trusted network of reputable and reliable suppliers, whose combined experience and local knowledge ensure that the couple and their guests have ample time to relax and enjoy these lovely islands, at their leisure.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines possess all of the necessary ingredients to ensure a perfectly romantic wedding day. There are countless venues from which to choose: sandy white beaches, a hilltop at sunset, sailing around a picturesque harbour, a lush tropical garden surrounded by colourful blooms, a charming island church, or even a deserted island – the choice is all yours...

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You can be confident that when you entrust your wedding to any one of these experienced consultants or planners, they will look after every detail. The list of services offered is extensive and includes arrangements for obtaining the wedding license, selecting a minister, providing witnesses, bridal bouquet, boutonnieres, floral arrangements, photographer, videographer, a traditional wedding cake, and for a special touch, a steel pan duet can be arranged to play at your wedding dinner.

What You’ll Need: St. Vincent and the Grenadines is one of the few countries where you can obtain a marriage license after being in the country for only one day. This license is issued in one day and can be obtained through the office of the Solicitor General in Kingstown which is open Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 3pm.

The following documentation is required: valid passports; if either party is divorced, both original and copy of Decree Absolute; in the case of a widow/widower, original and notarized copy of Death Certificate of spouse; if adopted, certificate is required. Couple must be resident in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for a minimum of one day, not including the day of arrival, before applying for a marriage license. All documents must be in English. If the originals are in another language, they must be translated into English and certified.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Weddings A Caribbean Wedding Wedding & Honeymoon Consultant: Suzanne Gabriel Tel: 784-528-7444 e-mail: suzanne@acaribbeanwedding.com

www.acaribbeanwedding.com A full-service destination wedding company offering friendly, personalized service and a number of tailor-made packages to suit all requirements and budgets. Owner-director, Suzanne Gabriel is a member of the international Association of Bridal Consultants with over 12 years local experience. So whether you are planning a large formal event or an intimate beach wedding for two, Suzanne’s knowledge and understanding of the islands, combined with her creativity and attention to detail, ensure that your wedding day (and honeymoon) will be a truly magical, and memorable event!

Bequia Photography by Wilfred Dederer Outhouse Graphics, Bequia Cell: 784-532-9553 Office: 784-457-3649 e-mail: outhouse@vincysurf.com Wilfred has been capturing life in Bequia with his cameras for over 20 years. His portfolio includes weddings, villa photography, landscapes, events and family portraits, examples of which have been widely published both regionally and internationally.

Digital portfolio selections tailored to your particular requirements are available on request.

Friendship Rose Weddings Tel: 784-495-0886/9 or 784-457-3888 e-mail: friendshiprose@mac.com www.friendshiprose.com The Friendship Rose provides a uniquely special and romantic environment for your wedding. The classic 100-foot traditional sailing schooner offers exceptional events: - Desert Island Weddings...

- Beach Weddings...

- Classic Schooner Weddings...

Imagine your wedding in the most stunning natural locations throughout the Grenadines... Consider Mustique or Mayreau, The Tobago Cays or the coral sand island of Morpion. Exquisite locations combined with a full and generous service on board the schooner.

Grenadine Island Villas Bequia Waterfront, Frangipani Gardens Tel: 784-529-8046 or 784-455-0969 or 784-457-3739 e-mail: grenadinevillas@mac.com www.grenadinevillas.com Beach retreats, classic villas and distinctive houses. Based in the islands, this friendly team offers a full service to help you find and enjoy your perfect island hideaway. With a comprehensive online guide and swift, responsive service you can relax and fully enjoy your Grenadines villa experience. Benefit from helpful services such as provisioning, welcome meals and 24hr on-island assistance.

Contact Grenadine Island Villas for detailed information on island developments, investment opportunities and land & villa purchase.

Visit their Waterfront offices on Bequia to arrange guided property viewings.

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The Bequia Experience When thinking of shopping and services don’t be misled by Bequia being a small island in a distant ocean.

Here you’ll find everything needed for your convenience and comfort, for a holiday on land or sea.

Port Elizabeth is built along the waterfront of Admiralty Bay and into the rising hills surrounding it – a number of brightly coloured shops, houses, restaurants, small hotels and guest houses complete the captivating scene Photo: Wilfred Dederer

shopping& services The harbour town of Port Elizabeth is the centre of the island’s commerce; at its heart the main jetty which, with the frequent sailings and arrivals of passenger ferries and cargo boats, is the closest thing to hustle and bustle you’ll see here.

Island ferries to St. Vincent are usually very punctual – you can set your clock by them. Both The Admiral and Bequia Express offer regular sailings, every day, to and from St. Vincent in the comfort of air-conditioned lounges or up on deck in the fresh sea breeze. The Jaden Sun is a new ‘fast ferry’ operating between St. Vincent, Bequia and the southern Grenadine islands.

Next to the jetty is the Bequia Tourism Association booth so if your first stop is for information, their staff will be pleased to help you. Along Front Street the yellow Government building houses the Revenue Office and Post Office, Harbour Master, Customs and Immigration. Enquire here about yachting and mooring regulations.

For banking, RBTT next door to the Revenue Office opens Monday through Thursday 8am-2pm and 8am5pm on Friday. The National Commecial Bank (NCB) off Back Street opens daily from 8am-1pm, and on Fridays re-opens from 3-5pm. For your convenience, both banks also have an ATM. Note that US$ travellers cheques and cash are accepted by most establishments. Credit cards are accepted by most hotels, restaurants and boutiques, but be sure to check before you shop or dine!

As the gateway to the beautiful sailing grounds of the Grenadine isles, Bequia offers a full range of services and supplies to the marine traveller. There are a number of skilled craftsmen at boatyards around the harbour offering services from minor repairs, to a custom-built boat.

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Christine Wilkie

Bequia

The ferry dock in Port Elizabeth

Marine outfitters and chandleries stock all you will need for boat repairs and maintenance, from hardware and electrical, to paints and outboard engines. Some chandlers offer duty-free prices to visitors, as do suppliers of all your fishing and diving needs such as Lulley’s Tackle Shop located upstairs the Island Style shop on Front Street. Ice, diesel and water are available from the Trade Winds Cruise Club dock at the Bequia Marina.

Meanwhile, if you want to stay in touch with home, several Internet agencies and cafés offer wireless Internet services. The Western Union agent is Admiralty Transport, located on Back Street, and FedEx is located at Solana’s Boutique on Front Street.

Whatever your tastes, Port Elizabeth is your one-stop harbour for all you will need to provision your yacht or stock your kitchen for a self-catering holiday. Supermarkets, including Knights Trading (on the corner of Back Street), offer baked, canned and dried goods, a good selection of frozen foods and a variety of drinks, wines and spirits. Many residents and regular visitors to Bequia shop at Doris’ Fresh Foods, now in new and more spacious surroundings on Back

Street. The shop is always well-stocked with fresh local produce, an impressive range of imported cheeses, patés and international delicatessen selections, fine wines and a tempting array of specialty items including smoked fish, pesto and even a full range of sushi ingredients.

The recently opened Gourmet Food, located in Ocar (downstairs Coco’s Place) stocks an exceptional range of high quality imported Deli items, frozen meat and seafood, dry and canned products.

Their baguettes are baked fresh every day and they also do delicious smoothies! The Shoreline Mini Mart is attached to the popular Porthole Restaurant, run by Noelina and Lennox Taylor. In addition to their wonderful, reasonably priced menu, the mini mart stocks a good range of grocery supplies, wines and liquors.

At the vegetable and fruit market on Front Street you may have a “cultural experience” with the rasta brethren who sell an interesting variety of the islands’ fruits and vegetables. Much of the produce comes directly from the fertile farms in St. Vincent and local kitchen gardens in Bequia, so you can be sure of its freshness. At the adjacent fish market, fishermen blow the conch shell when the catch of the day arrives. If you have a taste for something different, just ask; Bequians love to help and chances are your taxi driver, housekeeper, bartender or neighbour knows someone who can arrange delivery of fresh fish or lobsters the next morning. With the housekeeping taken care of, it’s time to relax and enjoy more of the variety which this little town has to offer.

Browsing in the boutiques you can find locally designed clothing to enhance your holiday wardrobe – swimwear, souvenir T-shirts and, at the bookstore, a fine collection of maps, Caribbean literature and scrimshaw. Souvenir shoppers will find an extensive and colourful variety of unusual craft and gift items from around the Caribbean at Noah’s Arkade - now with a brand new facelift and relocated to Back Street just across from Doris’ Fresh Foods. Here you will also find work by local artists, including Pinky VaughanRichards whose colourful, hand-painted boleys are showcased alongside the work of another resident artist, Julie Savage Lea. Julie’s lovely paintings and prints of Bequia scenes can also be seen at her delightful little studio and art gallery – The Mango Tree Cottage on the main road, behind the Gingerbread Hotel.

“Buy Bequia” is the call of the island’s many arts and crafts producers, and “Bequia Clean and Green” is a slogan which the B.T.A. hopes becomes a motto – they encourage everyone to bring or buy their own shopping bag and say “No!” to plastic whenever possible.

Gourmet Food Ocar. Bequia Tel: (784-458-3485 VHF 68 e-mail: gourmetfood@vincysurf.com

Supermarket & Wholesale

The best supplier of chilled, frozen and canned food from around the world

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Great selection of cold meats, salami, turkey, prociutto, cheese, cream, juices, etc. Seafood, shrimp, prawns, smoked and fresh salmon. Baguettes baked fresh every day. Enjoy their popular baguette sandwiches made to order on the premises, or take away.

Try their delicious smoothies.

Provisioning for yacht charters. Large or small orders for restaurants, hotels, villas or simply to enjoy at home. Delivery service to yachts available. Friendly and efficient service.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Shopping & Services BEQUIA THE PLACE TO SHOP! NEW LOCATION! BACK STREET, PORT ELIZABETH. (Formerly Le Petit Jardin).

Wir sprechen Deutsch Credit Cards welcome!

Fine Wines & Cheeses Imported Pastas & Meats

Daily Fresh Herbs & Huge Selec tion

of Gourmet

Produce

Products

Yacht Provisioning & Delicatessen

Special 8-grain bread • Fresh Croissants daily

VHF 68 Tel (784) 458-3625 Fax (784) 457-3134 Back Street, Port Elizabeth - Bequia - SVG, W.I.

Doris’ Fresh Food

Knights Trading Now renovated and expanded, Knights Trading is a well-stocked, family-run grocery store located on Back Street, on the corner of the main intersection in Port Elizabeth. It is just a short distance from the area where the taxis assemble under the almond trees in the harbour.

They carry a good selection of grocery items including a variety of pastas, sauces, bottled seasonings and condiments, snacks, toiletries, liquor, wine, champagne, beer and soft drinks. They also carry a selection of frozen meat and poultry.

Bottled water can be purchased by the case and some items are available at wholesale prices.

Free delivery can be arranged to the dinghy docks in Port Elizabeth. Orders can be called in or faxed ahead of time for collection.

There is a convenient hardware division upstairs. They carry lumber, plumbing supplies, cement, paint, torches, lanterns, household items and basically everything you’ll need to repair-it, build-it, paint-it and do-it-yourself.

Open Monday to Saturday from 8am - 6pm Back Street, Port Elizabeth, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3218 Fax: 784-457-3327 e-mail: knightstrad@yahoo.com VHF 68

Now relocated on Back Street at the former site of Le Petit Jardin Restaurant For 21 years Doris operated her small grocery store opposite the vegetable market in Port Elizabeth. Over the years Doris’ Fresh Food has earned an outstanding reputation for their excellent selection of fresh local produce and incredible range of imported specialty foods and gourmet items.

The store has recently been relocated to Back Street, at the former site of Le Petit Jardin Restaurant, where shoppers can expect to find the same exceptional selection in lovely, spacious surroundings. It is the perfect place to stock up on provisions, whether you are visiting on a yacht or staying at one of the island’s villas. Shoppers are often surprised at the variety of items in stock – from top quality imported meats, frozen seafood, smoked fish and smoked fish paté, to imported cheeses, pastas, fresh produce and a wide range of bread and pastries including rye, poppy seed, multi grain, sesame seed and their special 8 grain bread along with baguettes, mini baguettes, rolls and for pastry pain aux chocolat, apple and raspberry turn overs, butter croissants, apple and pear tarts, pain aux raisin, chocolate and apple filled doughnuts and much more! You can even find a full range of sushi ingredients and bottled pesto, as well as an exceptional selection of fine imported international wines and spirits. You can fax or e-mail your “list” to Doris prior to your arrival and your groceries will be delivered directly to your yacht or villa. MasterCard and Visa accepted. German spoken.

Opening Times (in season) Mon-Sat 8:30am-5pm; Sun 9am-11:30am (Opening times may vary in the offseason) Tel: 784-458-3625 Fax: 784-457-3134 VHF 68 e-mail: doris_freshfood@yahoo.com

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Bequia

Caribbean Country

Giftsat Noah’sPortArkade Elizabeth, Bequia

Tel: (784) 458 3424/457 1513 noahs@hairoun.com

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Art & Craft Distinctly Caribbean, Bequia is an island of many cultures and the work of its art and craft producers reflects the best of these worlds. Many fashion collectible work from natural materials and found objects. In their creative hands, pieces of driftwood become graceful fish, a tree branch becomes a last-a-lifetime walking stick and fine scrimshaw jewellery is fashioned from blackfish teeth.

Decorative calabashes emerge from the fruit of the boley tree, bracelets and hair ornaments from the shell of the coconut, baskets from its leaves, boats from its fruit. Hats and baskets take shape from materials washed up on beaches, whilst scraps of fabric are crafted into clothing and dolls. Bequia men, who grew up with the sight of beautiful schooners taking shape on the baysides, create miniature boats from local woods, while daughters from this same maritime heritage use what were once the skills of net-making to fashion crocheted clothing and household items.

Meanwhile, if you are collecting contemporary Caribbean artwork or shopping for Bequia souvenirs, there is plenty to see.

You will find a variety of work in Port Elizabeth's shops and boutiques, where locally made work is highlighted among international collections. Take the time to travel around the island and meet the art and craft producers to enjoy, not only their work, but also the stories that paint pictures of Bequia’s histories and lives. In the harbour you can watch model boat building at Mauvin's and the Sargeant Brothers' workshops – they produce replicas of Bequia’s wooden craft, from whaleboats to schooners.

In Lower Bay, follow the signs to Claude Victorine’s Art Studio, where she creates exquisite hand painted designs on silk, crafted into scarves, pareos and cushion covers.

Over the years, a number of visiting artists have made Bequia their home. Julie Savage Lea is one of those. Her delightful book, Bequia Reflections – An Artist in the Caribbean, can be found at Noah’s Arkade along with a selection of her prints and paintings.

You can also visit her in her studio at the charming Mango Tree Cottage, on the main road behind the Gingerbread Hotel, where you can view her work along with the work of several other artists, including Peter Carr, an exceptional watercolour artist from Australia who visits Bequia regularly. Julie also has a display catalogue of Morris Nicholson’s exquisite sculptures and wood carvings. She can arrange an appointment for you to visit Morris’ home studio to see his remarkable work first hand.

The Oasis Art Gallery in Port Elizabeth, is a refreshingly new gallery curated by well known Bequia artist, L.D. Lucy whose wonderful paintings, depicting her mystical views of island life, are on display. The gallery also showcases the work of a number of talented local artists, in a variety of media, including the work of Bequia seaman, Kingsley “Prop” King who crafts model boats-thatsail from the shells of coconuts. There are regular exhibitions by guest artists throughout the high season, so be sure to check with them for specific dates.

Whilst some treasures are sought, others are chanced upon, and you will soon discover that some studios are without walls. On your travels you may chance upon a painter working under the shade of a tree by the beach, a man quietly carving, an artist sailing his model boat; chances are they will be happy to show you more of their work. So enjoy, and perhaps find a unique treasure to take home as a reminder of a special holiday on this island of smiles.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Shopping & Services Julie Savage Lea

Peter Carr

Julie, a life-long artist with a university degree in fine art, sailed into Bequia in 1978. For 33 years she has painted local scenes, people and flowers in watercolors and acrylics. Her work is exhibited and collected internationally.

In 2000, Macmillan Caribbean published a book of her artwork, BEQUIA REFLECTIONS – An Artist in the Caribbean, available locally or through Julie's website. Visit the artist in her studio at the charming Mango Art Studio on the hill along the main road, above the Gingerbread Restaurant.

Australian-born Peter Carr, seaman, world traveller, and artist, first sailed into Admiralty Bay in 1978. Enchanted by the visual feast he discovered, he immediately began to paint the people, boats, landscapes, and life styles he encountered as he walked about the island. Peter returns frequently to paint and visit with his long-time friends.

Collected world-wide, his Bequia watercolors and oils lovingly record the timeless aspects of local life.

Represented in Bequia by Julie Lea, Mango Art Studio

Mango Tree Cottage, Belmont, Bequia By appointment, call 784-455-4677 julieslea@yahoo.com www.juliesavagelea.com

Mango Tree Cottage, Belmont, Bequia By appointment, call 784-455-4677 julieslea@yahoo.com

Silma Duncan Bequian poet Silma Duncan has been dubbed the Poet Laureate of St. Vincent & the Grenadines. She has been recognized by St. James Palace for a poem honouring the late Princess Diana and has been written up in "Caraibes" magazine and published in the London Independent. She has also been interviewed by BBC Radio in Manchester.

Silma recently released her fourth book of poetry covering a wide range of subjects. She examines issues ranging from love, suicide, relationships and the treatment of women, to a tribute to the famous Black Carib leader Joseph Chatoyer, who commanded the Caribs, as well as French soldiers, against the British military.

With a little encouragement she will expressively recite one of her poems for the listener.

Silma can be contacted at Tel: (784) 458-3712

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L ’Auberge des Grenadines

fine dining by the sea

Hamilton, Bequia Tel: (784) 457-3555 auberge@caribrestaurant.com www.caribrestaurant.com

restaurants &nightlife The restaurants in Bequia are charming and diverse, offering menu selections and prices to suit everyone.

Wherever you choose to dine, you’ll find, in general, all of the restaurants on the island enjoy a happy, informal and relaxed atmosphere – from the small, “no frills joints”, to the larger and more “sophisticated”.

Reservations are preferred by most restaurants. During the high season (December to April), and especially during the busy Easter Regatta period, restaurants are usually booked solid. Equally, in the “offseason”, many restaurants are closed during the week, although some open according to bookings – so a reservation will always avoid disappointment. Menu prices are usually in EC dollars unless stated otherwise. The conversion rate is roughly US$1 = EC$2.68. US currency, travellers cheques and credit cards are generally accepted but it is always advisable to ask at the time of booking. Tipping is always appreciated and 10% of the bill is generally the norm. Some restaurants do however include a service charge; in this case, an extra tip is left to the customer’s discretion. 15% VAT (Value Added Tax) is normally included in the price quoted on all items. Remember, the Lobster Season runs from September 1st to April 30th - restaurants do not serve lobster between May and September.

There is a reliable land and water taxi service on the island offering an island-wide service; after dinner, your host will be happy to call one for you. Night time entertainment, though limited, is fun and enjoyable and provides a wonderful opportunity to meet friendly Bequians. The music scene is a cool, eclectic mix of tastes and styles. Electric and acoustic groups provide a dazzling variety – from Calypso, String Band and Reggae, to Rock 'n Roll, Country & Western, Jazz and Blues. Groups and musicians like Colin Peters & Brung Shuga, The Country Relatives, Elite Steel Band, Farine Folk Band, Bob & the Bequia Blues Band, New Direction, Socony and the very unique local string band, J. Gool & De Buccaneers, perform at various venues around the island almost every week. Bequia This Week is an informative weekly newsletter, with up-to-date information on day and night time activities.

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Bequia L’Auberge des Grenadines

Your hosts Jacques and Eileen Thevenot

Hamilton, overlooking Admiralty Bay, Bequia Tel/Fax: 784-457-3555 VHF 68 e-mail: auberge@caribrestaurant.com www.caribrestaurant.com Gourmet French cuisine with a distinct Creole accent is the nucleus of this charming waterfront restaurant on Admiralty Bay. Since its opening 11 years ago, L'Auberge has firmly established itself as one of the best in the Grenadines. Owner-run by Jacques and Eileen Thevenot, a dynamic husband and wife team who have been in the restaurant business for over 20 years. The menu features an outstanding selection of imaginative dishes, with the accent on ultrafresh fish and market-fresh ingredients. Lobster dishes are a specialty and with the only LIVE LOBSTER POOL in Bequia (in season) your meal just can’t get much fresher! Open for Lunch & Dinner.

Blue Tropic Café & Bagatelle Bequia Beach Hotel, Friendship, Bequia Tel: 784-458-1600 and 784-458-8111 e-mail: info@bequiabeach.com www.bequiabeach.com Among the most elegant restaurants on the island, the Bagatelle and Blue Tropic at Bequia Beach Hotel are two lavish havens where you can enjoy the finest fusion cuisine, as their staff tend to your every wish.

Blue Tropic, perched amidst the treetops, lets you relish in the tropical garden setting, enjoying breezy views over Friendship Bay. At Bagatelle, enjoy a romantic gourmet beachfront dinner or light summer dishes, freshly prepared with local ingredients by exquisite chefs.

Frangipani Restaurant Admiralty Bay, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3255 Fax: 784-458-3824 www.frangipanibequia.com It is not at all surprising that The Frangipani is mentioned in the best selling book, “A Thousand Places to See Before You Die.” Located directly on the waterfront of beautiful Admiralty Bay, the open-air dining room at Frangipani specializes in fresh seafood and gourmet West Indian cuisine. Their à la carte menu is supplemented with daily specials. Fine imported wines are available. Every Thursday night the feature attraction is Frangi’s famous barbecue and buffet with steel band and “jump-up”. Breakfast is served from 7.30am-10.00am; lunch, from 10.00am-5.00pm; and dinner, from 7.00pm-10.00pm.

Entrées from EC$55-$85; Barbecue Buffet - EC$75.

Gingerbread Restaurant Belmont, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3800 Fax: 784-458-3907 e-mail: gm@gingerbreadhotel.com www.gingerbreadhotel.com With an unrivaled location overlooking beautiful Admiralty Bay, the Gingerbread restaurant offers elegant dining in a warm tropical ambience. Charming gingerbread fretwork, interesting artwork and unique architecture provide the ideal setting for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Featuring gourmet West Indian cuisine with international influences including fresh seafood, imported steak and the house specialty – Indian and Thai curries! An extensive selection of fine imported wines is also available, including their "wine of the month" tasting. Their friendly staff always offer a warm Bequia welcome.

Reservations are recommended.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Restaurants & Nightlife Dawn’s Creole Beach Café Industry Bay, Bequia Tel: 784 458 3715 e-mail: dcreole@vincysurf.com Over the years Dawn has gained quite a reputation with both locals and visitors for her tasty West Indian and international specialities.

Her popular restaurant has recently been relocated to Industry Bay on the east coast of Bequia with magnificent views and cooling breezes off the Atlantic. Selections of fresh seafood include snapper, conch, shrimp and lobster (in season), as well as her famous curries and wonderfully prepared beef and pork dishes. Be sure to check out their Sunday Specials and traditional Full Moon Buffet Dinner. Breakfast and Lunch served daily. Dinner is by reservation only. Groups for Birthdays, Anniversaries and Wedding Parties are welcome.

Firefly Plantation Restaurant Spring, Bequia Reservations Requested Tel: 784-458-3414 email: anita@fireflybequia.com www.fireflybequia.com The restaurant and bar serve fresh home grown produce in a relaxed open-air setting with magnificent views of the plantation and sea beyond. The menu is simple but changes frequently reflecting what’s in season. Most ingredients are picked daily from the plantation and guests are invited to do a tour and pick their own if they want!

Service is friendly and attentive, prices reasonable and there is an excellent wine and cocktail list. Caribbean fusion cuisine in a smart casual atmosphere. Open for breakfast, lunch, cocktails, sunset snacks and dinner. Reservations suggested.

Mac’s Pizzeria & Bakeshop Belmont Walkway, Admiralty Bay Tel: 784-458-3474 VHF 68 e-mail: judy-macs@vincysurf.com For over 30 years Mac's has been serving their famous pizza, with over 17 toppings from which to choose, including lobster (when available). The informal, relaxed setting and perfect seaside location makes it a popular gathering place for locals and all visitors to Bequia. Added to this, their extensive menu features a variety of tasty selections including conch fritters, samosas, lasagne, sandwiches, delicious daily specials and an excellent assortment of desserts. Their wonderful homemade bread is made daily.

Mac's Pizzeria is located along the Belmont Walkway, just past Gingerbread Hotel, next door to Bequia Dive Adventures.

Reservations recommended.

Open Daily (closed on Wednesdays in the off season):

11am-10pm (winter season) 3pm-10pm (summer season) For take-away orders please call 458-3474 VHF 68

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The Bequia Experience “It was marvellous in the evening, sitting on the terrace, watching the scores of yachts spread out across Admiralty Bay - so pretty, so tasteful, so lovely to get away from mass tourism...”

Hunter Davies The Mail On Sunday

Admiralty Bay provides a truly captivating backdrop for many of the island’s charming hotels Wilfred Dederer

accommodation A full range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets is available in Bequia, and though there are no large hotel chains to be found, visitors will find a very wide range of suitable accommodations from which to choose. There are a number of charming, well-run hotels and friendly, family-run guest houses to be found, as well as a wonderful selection of exclusive private villas scattered all over the island–many of them enjoying stunning views of the coastline from their hillside locations.

Almost all of the hotels and apartments are situated along the waterfront at Admiralty Bay, Lower Bay, Friendship Bay, Spring and Industry.

The busiest times of year are the Christmas to New Year period, and during Easter, when it’s regatta time in Bequia. The “off-season” is between May and October; this is when the island is quieter, and very often special summer rates are offered by many of the establishments, so be sure to ask at the time of booking.

The Bequia Tourism Association operates an information booth near the ferry dock in Port Elizabeth where you’ll find listings, rates and contact information on just about every type of accommodation available. The charming young ladies who run the booth are very knowledgeable and always willing to assist in any way. Their website, www.bequiatourism.com, is an excellent source of detailed information on all aspects of the island, including special low-season packages. The site is particularly user-friendly, with a clean, clear layout making it an absolute pleasure to browse. If you require more specific information, you can e-mail them at info@bequiatourism.com.

Additionally, www.insandoutsofsvg.com is the online version of this publication. It offers a plethora of information which visitors will find extremely useful in planning their holiday.

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Bequia Bequia Beach Hotel Friendship, Bequia Tel: 784-458-1600 Fax: 784-458-1700 e-mail: info@bequiabeach.com www.bequiabeach.com Bequia Beach Hotel is a newly opened 4-star resort on pristine Friendship Bay beach. Enjoy an oceanview massage at their lovely beachfront Spa, cocktails at the beach bar, or linger over a fresh fruit colada as you soak in the luxury of their sumptuous ocean view suites. All accommodation is luxuriously furnished, featuring air conditioning and private terrace. Also on the premises are two of Bequia’s best restaurants – the Blue Tropic and Bagatelle – offering a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

At Bequia Beach Hotel you will experience the true Caribbean.

The Frangipani Hotel Admiralty Bay, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3255 Fax: 784-458-3824 e-mail: reservations@frangipanibequia.com

www.frangipanibequia.com

Restored as an inn some three decades ago, the Frangipani has been a family home for over 100 years and was recently mentioned in the best selling book, “A Thousand Places To See Before You Die.” With spectacular views of Admiralty Bay, the inn offers elegant garden units with individual balconies overlooking the yachts in the bay, and old-style rooms within the original family home. Ask about their Frangi Special - stay 6 nights and the 7th night is FREE. They have an established reputation for fine food and a range of imported wines. Live music on Sundays and Thursdays, with their special barbecue buffet and steel band “jump-up”.

Gingerbread Hotel Admiralty Bay, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3800 Fax: 784-458-3907 e-mail: ginger@vincysurf.com www.gingerbreadhotel.com Want to be independent but still feel part of Bequia life? Gingerbread Hotel, with its superb location right on Admiralty Bay, is the perfect choice. The spacious, elegant suites open onto individual shaded verandahs with comfortable armchairs so that you can relax and savor the ever-changing scene on the waterfront. Restaurants of many types are conveniently within a minute’s walk, or you may surprise yourself and rustle up something in your own well-equipped kitchen. Choose to shop, bar-hop, scuba dive, snorkel, sail, treat yourself at the spa, or simply mingle at the bayside café – it’s all so easy, when you are based at Gingerbread.

Firefly Plantation Hotel Bequia Spring, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3414 e-mail: anita@fireflybequia.com www.fireflybequia.com A charming and well managed boutique hotel with four beautifully appointed rooms, spectacular views, A/C, Wi-Fi, sumptuous bathrooms, indoor/outdoor double showers, Italian linens and thoughtful amenities. Set within a 250 year old working plantation, the property consists of lush coconut groves, banana and fruit orchards. Although a sister hotel to Firefly Mustique, Firefly Bequia is very different, having its own unique character and charm but with the same friendly staff, excellent food, cocktails and attentive service. The hotel has a tennis court, swimming pool and a walk through the plantation leads to a secluded sandy beach.

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Accommodation

When did you experience

The true Caribbean?

Bequia Beach is a newly opened 4 star resort situated on the pristine, charming Grenadine island of Bequia.

Experience the true Caribbean in a secluded, independent beachfront property, on an untouched island claimed to be one of the Caribbean’s best kept secrets.

The true Caribbean Friendship Beach, Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines www.bequiabeach.com info@bequiabeach.com +1 784 458 1600

Kingsville Apartments Lower Bay, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3404 or 784-458-3932 Cell: 784-493-0014 Fax: 784-458-3000 e-mail: kingsville@vincysurf.com or kingsville@karibcable.com

www.kingsville-apartments.net Eight cottage-style, one and two bedroom, air-conditioned apartments tucked away in a beautifully landscaped, tropical garden setting. Each unit features modern, fully-equipped kitchens, patios, TVs and free Wi-Fi Internet. Nestled in tranquil Lower Bay, 2 minutes walk from a glorious white sand beach. Excellent swimming and snorkeling with several good restaurants very close by.

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The Bequia Experience One of the most gratifying and rewarding ways to truly experience the benefits of the enviable Bequia lifestyle is to spend your time on the island living in one of the many luxurious villas that are available for rental or purchase.

One of the greatest advantages of Villa Life is that it offers both the relaxed environment of a private home and the attentive service of a top resort Wilfred Dederer

villalife

Enjoying a vacation in a villa on Bequia (or anywhere in the Grenadines, for that matter), be it as an owner or a visiting guest, can definitely be considered one of life’s finer luxuries.

In keeping with its capacity for providing a surprisingly wide spectrum of scenic beauty within a relatively small area, Bequia can also offer a variety of exquisite villas that are sure to accommodate even the most demanding of requirements and tastes.

Whether it be beachfront or wooded hillside garden, classical or whimsical, sprawling or small and intimate, there is something here to please everyone – couples, families, groups of friends, honeymooners or wedding parties.

Villa life in Bequia offers the relaxed privacy of a home where residents have the liberty to do what they want when they want, without any need to consider the sensibilities of strangers around them, and yet still be able to enjoy the benefit of dedicated housekeeping staff, whose aim is to make sure their guests relax and enjoy themselves. It is this freedom to get away from it all and completely unwind in your own space that makes villa life in Bequia so alluring, coupled of course with the aesthetic appeal of having the opportunity to live, for a while, here in Bequia in a truly beautiful home.

Family vacations often provide lifetime memories, especially for the children. Many years down the road, people will find themselves reminiscing, fondly looking back with great joy at relatively simple events – perhaps a game of charades or Scrabble, a full-moon barbeque, a day fooling around in kayaks, a birthday celebration – all made so much more enjoyable, meaningful and memorable simply because they were done together as a family while staying in your own private villa.

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Photo: Wilfred Dederer/Courtesy Spring House Bequia

Bequia

Courtesy Letovah Villa

A villa vacation can be the ideal choice for a family reunion, wedding, or any other special occasion

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It is because of this particular aspect of Villa Life that many families actually book a villa vacation every year, just to guarantee a chance to spend that high level of quality time together. And when the children themselves become adults, they often want to return to the scene of their happy childhood holidays. A villa vacation can be the ideal choice for a family reunion or any other special occasion.

Many of the rental properties here are looked after by property management companies and run by dedicated professionals who benefit from many years experience of taking good care of both the houses and the guests who stay in them.

In these times of major global economic challenges and financial uncertainty, many investors are of the opinion that this area is one of the best emerging markets for purchasing real estate. Without a doubt, St. Vincent and the Grenadines can provide a range of property investment opportunities to suit every taste and every budget. Interested investors are encouraged to seek the assistance of a reputable real estate agent.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Villa Life Letovah Villa Sugar Hill, Mount Pleasant, Bequia Tel: 212-861-0007 e-mail: lasseraf@yahoo.com www.bequialetovahvilla.com Named after the gentle breezes that flow through the house, Letovah is an idyllic hideaway for those seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This luxurious, 3bedroom villa, located in Mount Pleasant, enjoys sweeping views of the island from just about every part of the house. The spacious, elegantly furnished rooms spill out onto an open-air terrace with an infinity edge plunge pool. Amenities include outdoor courtyard with pergola and BBQ, 42� flat screen cable TV, high speed/wireless Internet connection, maid service 5 days/week, ipod/speakers ready, use of cell phone. Visit website for detailed information.

Spring House Spring Estate, Bequia Tel: 784-483-0381 UK: 44-207-099-6983 USA: 617-275-4820 info@springhousebequia.com www.springhousebequia.com Spring House is an exclusive, 12,000 sq. ft., luxury villa on Bequia.

Set in two acres of landscaped grounds, it is more of a private resort than just a villa. Up to 16 guests can be accommodated in 8 air conditioned suites with 4 poster beds, 40 ft. pool, full staff and much, much more. Perfect for groups or weddings or an exclusive getaway. Choose their All-inclusive rate plan that covers everything you might want including Barbados - Bequia flights, jeeps, meals and open bar, or set your own pace with their Custom Plan. Whatever you are looking for in a vacation, Spring House is the perfect choice.

Disabled access and child friendly. Call or check their website for further details.

Villa Alamanda Mount Pleasant, Bequia Cell: 784-493-0014 Fax: 784-458-3000 e-mail: kingsville@vincysurf.com This modern, recently renovated 3-bedroom/3-bathroom villa sits high atop Mount Pleasant amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.

The views from the pool deck out over the quaint harbour of Port Elizabeth and Admiralty Bay are breathtaking. Amenities include fully equipped, open-plan kitchen, washing machine, cable TV, Internet and ceiling fans. The pool deck has a large barbecue and there is an ice machine in the bar area. Jeep rentals can be arranged on request at an additional cost.

Villa Casablanca Lower Bay, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3404 Fax: 784-458-3000 Cell: 784-493-0014 e-mail: kingsville@vincysurf.com or kingsville@karibcable.com This two storey villa is situated along the tranquil Lower Bay beach, approximately 50 yards from the water. The upper flat features two bedrooms and one bathroom, with ceiling fans throughout. The huge wrap-around verandah is perfect for lounging and dining.

The lower flat features two air-conditioned bedrooms, each with bathrooms. Spacious living and dining room, kitchen and small patio. Each unit has fully equipped kitchen, cable TV, telephone, hair dryers and hot water. Laundry facilities available. Several restaurants are located within a short distance.

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Bequia HazECO Apartments

Lower Bay, Bequia Tel: 784-457-8634 / 784-493-8634 / 784-493-8633 e-mail: hazeco@vincysurf.com www.hazecoapartments.com Superbly situated on a gentle slope overlooking glorious Lower Bay beach, HazEco Apartments comprises six elegant, one-bedroom units and a spacious two-bedroom apartment. This newly built property is set back from the coast in a quiet, secluded position and is particularly suited to groups of friends and families who wish to holiday with children but do not wish to compromise on the quality of their comfort. Designed to maximize the pleasures of tropical living, each unit offers fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances, airconditioned bedrooms, private patio and quality finishes throughout.

Daily maid service and wireless Internet included.

Sunrise Cottage La Pompe, Bequia Tel: 784-457-3086 or 784-458-3782 or Mobile: 784-593-3631 e-mail: sunrisebequia@yahoo.com

www.bequia.net/sunrise Enjoy majestic sunrises and sunsets from Sunrise Cottage. Your own private verandah provides island views of Mustique, Petit Nevis and Ile de Quatre. Sunrise Cottage offers two bedrooms with dining room, outdoor dining area, upper sundeck and modern kitchen.

Rental car can be included if desired. A free island tour is offered for bookings of one week or more. Memorable day trips to uninhabited islands can also be arranged.

Grenadine Island Villas Bequia Waterfront, Frangipani Gardens Tel: 784-529-8046 or 784-455-0969 or 784-457-3739 e-mail: grenadinevillas@mac.com www.grenadinevillas.com Beach retreats, classic villas and distinctive houses. Based in the islands, this friendly team offers a full service to help you find and enjoy your perfect island hideaway. With a comprehensive online guide and swift, responsive service you can relax and fully enjoy your Grenadines villa experience. Benefit from helpful services such as provisioning, welcome meals and 24hr. on-island assistance.

Contact Grenadine Island Villas for detailed information on island developments, investment opportunities and land & villa purchase.

Visit their Waterfront offices on Bequia to arrange guided property viewings.

Grenadine Escape London, England UK Tel: 44-208-749-1157 enquiries@grenadine-escape.com www.grenadine-escape.com After many years of experience in finding suitable villas to match their clients’ vacation aspirations, Grenadine Escape share their knowledge by advising and recommending possible purchase options based on the vision you have for your own Caribbean home.

They have dedicated agents on both sides of the Atlantic.

A year ago they bought a property of their own at Lower Bay in Bequia. Their investment has grown thirty percent in value.

For first hand knowledge of properties throughout the region, contact Grenadine Escape.

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Villa Life

De Reef Six self-contained apartments nestled in the quaint and friendly community of Lower Bay, just 2 minutes walk from one of Bequia’s best beaches with excellent snorkeling. Perfect for families. De Reef Restaurant and several other good restaurants and bars are all a short walk away.

Lower Bay, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3412 or 784-458-3484 Fax: 784-457-3103 e-mail: dereef@vincysurf.com

The Nest Treetop and The Nest are two charming, fully furnished, one-bedroom apartments, each with its own deep wrap-around verandah. The view of the harbour and Admiralty Bay is special.

Easy walk to Port Elizabeth, restaurants and Lower Bay beach. Cool and very comfortable.

Contact Elen Tel: 784-458-3667 e-mail: treehouse@vincysurf.com

Sugarapple Inn

Hibiscus Apartments 4 self-contained, one-bedroom apartments (one with air-conditioning) situated in Port Elizabeth; 10 mins. walk from Admiralty & Spring beaches and all the activities and shops in Admiralty Bay. Fully equipped kitchenettes, bath, hot/cold water, ceiling fans, cable TV & balconies. Vehicle rentals & laundry service available on request.

Contact: Ethel Ollivierre Port Elizabeth, Bequia Tel: 784-458-3889/3316 Fax: 784-458-3889 e-mail: hibiscusapts@vincysurf.com

Lime Cottage & Lime Studio A 2-bedroom/2-bathroom cottage, and onebedroom studio. Wonderful hilltop location with amazing views, set in beautiful tropical gardens with large pool, sun terrace and BBQ. Very private and secluded - cool & comfortable.

Spring, Industry and Park beaches are close by, along the lovely coastal walkway.

Tel/Fax: 784-457-3092 e-mail: limehouse@bequiavilla.com www.bequiavillas.net

Ocean Breeze House

Sea Shells Apartments

You'll be swept away by the beauty of this spacious, secluded, hillside villa – dramatic views, cool breezes, lush tropical gardens, large salt-water pool and sun terrace with mini bar and BBQ. There is a wide, covered terrace for outdoor dining and steps from the house lead to a relaxing Jacuzzi overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Can be rented as a 2 or 3 bedroom villa. Regular maid service and high speed Internet included.

This is where the holiday starts!

Self catering serviced apartments designed for Caribbean living, with great views of Admiralty Bay. On-site wading pool and sun deck in a lush landscaped setting. 15 minutes stroll to two beautiful beaches and the waterfront restaurants. Make Sea Shells your holiday home while you discover the hidden secrets of St. Vincent & the Grenadines. E-mail them for a brochure.

Tel/Fax: 784-457-3092 e-mail: limehouse@bequiavilla.com www.bequiaholiday.com

Tamarind Villa

Eight charming and spacious studio apartments set on a gently sloping hillside, amidst beautifully landscaped shady gardens, refreshing breezes and panoramic views overlooking Friendship Bay and the Grenadine Islands beyond. The apartments are all airconditioned and tastefully furnished, each with a soothing décor, modern amenities, cable TV and fully equipped kitchens. Friendship Bay Beach is just a short stroll away.

A 2-bedroom/2 bathroom villa, beautifully decorated with every detail considered, four poster beds, quality furnishings.

Located on the picturesque Spring Bay, in the North East of the island, the villa enjoys a hillside setting with unobstructed views over the bay and beyond to the islands of Balliceaux and Battowia.

Tel: 784-457-3148 e-mail: info@sugarappleinn.com www.sugarappleinn.com

Tel: 784-457-3232 Cell: 784-431-1470 e-mail: info@bequiatamarind.com www.bequiatamarind.com

Tel: 784-458-3656 e-mail: seashellsbq@vincysurf.com http://bequiaseashells.com

The Village Apartments One & two bedroom cottages, deluxe studio & one bedroom apts., all with metered a/c, fully equipped kitchenettes, TVs, radios, private bathrooms, room safes, room telephone, fans & maid service. 2 minutes to the beach, restaurants and dive shop facilities, 8 mins. to town. Vehicle rental available.

Belmont, Bequia Tel/Fax: 784-458-3883 or Tel: 784-458-3885/457-3026 e-mail: tvabqsvg@vincysurf.com or http://villageapartments.bequia.net

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Photos: Wilfred Dederer

Bequia

Hope Bay Estate on Bequia: the perfect mix of luxury, charm and seclusion With Mustique almost fully developed, potential buyers are looking favourably at the neighbouring island of Bequia as an exciting, more authentically Caribbean alternative.

A leading English developer/designer, well attuned to the requirements and expectations of the top end of the international property market, has identified the perfect hillside location on Bequia for an outstanding luxury villa development. The first, and largest, of three individually styled properties, each designed and finished to the highest specifications, has just been completed and is now available for purchase. With a built area of 11,500 sq ft and based on the popular Mustique theme of a central entertaining building with separate sleeping accommodation in nearby individual lodges, the architecture throughout is an intriguing mix of modern and classic island traditional.

Past the entrance gates and staff lodge, the approach to the main pavilion winds past lily ponds and gardens to a pair of full height mahogany doors, opening to reveal a spectacular vista straight through to the dramatic infinity pool and shimmering turquoise sea beyond.

This building comprises a vast reception room, drinks bar, separate sitting room, state-of-the-art kitchen, cloakroom, and a spacious, wrap-around terrace, perfect for outdoor dining and entertaining. Precision-engineered glass panels run the entire

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length of the building and open fully to leave nothing but space and light between the property, the ocean, and the nearby headlands which enclose one of the most breathtaking beaches in the Grenadines. This extraordinary panorama wonderfully defines the locus of the property.

Winding garden paths, flanked by tropical foliage and intoxicatingly perfumed jasmine, lead to the four sleeping lodges, which will sleep 12-18 in total comfort. The property is set in three acres of beautifully landscaped gardens which complete the sense of luxury and privacy. A path leads down to the white sands of Hope Beach, where the sound of waves and the rustle of the palms are all that disturb this special corner of paradise.

Bequia’s profile has been steadily rising in recent years, with its quality of development and level of investment. Yet it manages to retain its unique identity, its sense of tradition and its “undiscovered� feel, which greatly add to its attraction. Quietly, and without fanfare, Bequia has already become a favoured destination of several mega yacht owners and well-known stars of stage and screen, who seek (and have now found) that rare blend of luxury, authenticity and seclusion.

Hope Bay Estate offers a unique opportunity to fulfill just these aspirations and to acquire a top quality property, stunningly located on arguably the most charming and unspoilt Island in the region.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

stylish

sophisticated

serene

A STUNNING NEW CREATION ON THE BEAUTIFUL ISLAND OF BEQUIA • NEWLY CONSTRUCTED • TOTAL PRIVACY AND SECLUSION • SPECTACULAR VIEWS OVER SECLUDED BAY • EXTENSIVE ACCOMMODATION OF 11,500 SQ FT • 6 TO 9 BEDROOM SUITES • 3 ACRES OF LANDSCAPED GARDENS & GROUNDS • MAIN PAVILION COMPRISING EXPANSIVE RECEPTION ROOM, BAR AREA, SITTING ROOM, KITCHEN & CLOAKROOM • TWO MASTER LODGES EACH WITH BEDROOM, BATHROOM, DRESSING ROOM & SITTING ROOM • GUEST LODGE WITH BEDROOM, DRESSING ROOM & BATHROOM • FAMILY LODGE WITH THREE BEDROOMS & THREE BATHROOMS • STAFF LODGE WITH TWO BEDROOMS, SHOWER ROOM & SITTING ROOM • DIRECT ACCESS TO BEACH

w w w. h o p e b a y e s t a t e . c o m t: 00 44 (0) 1264 730 733 e: enquiries@hopebayestate.com

The Mustique Experience The Cotton House is an elegant resort of 17 luxury accommodations with lush tropical gardens and the aquamarine Caribbean sea, located on what is unquestionably one of the most exclusive islands in the world.

The Cotton House in Mustique

Mustique Mustique is an exclusive 1,400 acre island located in the southern Caribbean with lush rolling terrain cooled by gentle trade winds, surrounded by pristine white beaches and crystal clear aquamarine waters. This private island is owned and operated by the Mustique Company, comprised of shareholders and villa owners from 17 countries dedicated to protecting the island’s natural beauty, tranquility and privacy.

A controlled development plan dictates that the island currently has one hundred private residences.

Mustique is such a peaceful island - you may find yourself totally alone on its white sand beaches, and even renowned spots such as lovely Macaroni Beach remain tranquil and uncrowded.

Apart from a large plain in the north the island is essentially composed of seven valleys each with a white sand beach, and wooded hills that rise to a height of 495 feet. The only anchorage in Mustique is Britannia Bay, which is also where the public jetty and wharf are located. There is a Mooring Fee EC$200 (US $75) for up to three nights. There is no charge for yacht charterers to go ashore. Mustique is a port of entry to St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Customs and Immigration are located at the airport. Mustique Moorings (call VHF 16/68) control the 28 moorings. Vessels carrying more than 25 people are prohibited.

Rental jeeps, ‘mules’ (heavy-duty golf carts), motorbikes and mountain bikes are available from Mustique Mechanical Services (Tel: (784) 488-8555). There are a few taxis available in Lovell Village and at the airport.

Nature walking and equestrian trails are in abundance and a great way to experience the island at your leisure. The Equestrian Centre has horses to suit every riding level and offers treks up into the hills, or rides through the surf on a white sand beach. There is a clinic across from the airport with an on-call doctor available (Tel: 488-8353). With a harbourfront focal point, Lovell Village is the commercial heart of the island. Fresh fruit and vegetables can be purchased from Stanley Junior’s stall on the waterfront and groceries can be bought at Corea’s Food Store and the Mustique General Store. The French-run Sweetie Pie Bakery is a fabulous place to stock up on baguettes, croissants and pain au chocolate. Basil’s Bar & Restaurant is just across the road. The annual Mustique Blues Festival is held every year in late January/early February at the bar.

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Mustique

Jon Farmer

Beaches & Anchorages

Nature walking and equestrian trails are in abundance and a great way to experience Mustique at your leisure either early in the morning or late afternoon.

Britannia Bay – Although rather rolly, Britannia Bay is the only suitable anchorage in Mustique. The water is sparkling clear and is wonderful for snorkeling and swimming.

Take care entering by boat as the Montezuma Shoal (just west of the bay) is quite hazardous.

There is a red and black beacon on the reef, stay at least 1/4 of a mile away.

Macaroni Bay – One of the most popular beaches on the island. There is a covered picnic area here and the swimming is delightful.

Pasture Bay – A long, sweeping white sand beach with crystalline waters.

Endeavour Bay – Ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling.

Gelliceaux Bay – This is one of the ten marine conservation areas in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. These areas are important marine habitats set aside for special management. The snorkeling here is sublime.

L’Ansecoy Bay – This wide beach is located at the north end of the island. Offshore lies the jutting hulk of the French liner, Antilles, which went aground in 1971.

Lagoon Bay – If you follow the southward road out of the village and then the shoreline path, you will happen upon this delightful beach with perfect swimming conditions.

An elegant resort of understated sophistication and exotic ambiance featuring 17 luxury accommodations captured within the tropical surroundings of lush gardens and the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.

M U S T I Q U E

A Member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World P.O. Box 349, Mustique, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, West Indies Tel: (1 784) 456 4777 Fax: (1 784) 456 5887 e-mail: reservations@cottonhouse.net

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Mustique Cotton House Tel: 784-456-4777 Fax: 784-456-5887 e-mail: reservations@cottonhouse.net www.cottonhouse.net An elegant resort featuring 17 luxury accommodations captured within the surroundings of lush gardens and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The Beach Café offers al fresco dining only footsteps away from rolling surf. Join them for lunch, cocktails or a gourmet BBQ dinner on Saturdays. The Veranda Restaurant, nestled in the setting of an 18th century cotton warehouse, serves creative local and international gourmet cuisine for the discerning diner. Their wine cellar features over 140 different wines, hand-selected by their resident Sommelier. The decidedly cozy Tree Garden Lounge offers Asianinfused tapas and a large selection of new and classic tropical cocktails.

Visit their full service Spa featuring ESPA & Signature treatments.

Basil’s Bar & Restaurant Tel: 784-488-8350 VHF 68 e-mail: basils@vincysurf.com www.basilsbar.com Named one of the World's Ten Best Bars in 1987 by Newsweek, Basil’s Bar in Mustique still lives up to that reputation. Recently renovated, the new face of Basil's Bar is all that and more: offering fresh seafood, lobster in season, steaks and the best beef burger in the Caribbean!

Now equipped with Wi-Fi, you can enjoy sunset cocktails and catch up on the web. Basil's is home of the only Blues Festival in the Caribbean.

The Mustique Blues Festival takes place January 28 to February 9, 2011. Breakfast service begins at 8am. Lunch 11am-6pm, and Dinner 7:30pm until late. Come to Basil's for cocktails anytime, and plan to attend the Wednesday Night Jump Up and BBQ.

Basil’s Shops in Mustique Tel: 784-488-8407 VHF 68 e-mail: basils@vincysurf.com

www.basilsbar.com

Basil's Boutique: has clothing from beachwear and T-Shirts, to elegant island evening wear. Sunglasses, jewellery and postcards.

Basil's Great General Store: There is nothing general about Basil's Great General Store. Bountifully stocked with fine French wines, cheese from Europe, gourmet jams and sauces. Imported cigars and an unusual collection of books. Fine foods in Paradise.

Across Forever: Featuring antiques from Bali and India, Across Forever also has a magnificent collection of furniture from Asia and beyond, contemporary pieces, home furnishings, fabulous lighting accessories and more. Shipping is easily and efficiently arranged.

Caribbean Schooner Cruises Friendship Rose 100ft Local Classic Sailing Schooner Tel: 784-495-0886/9 e-mail: friendshiprose@mac.com www.friendshiprose.com Private day charters from Mustique on a 100ft Schooner.

Experience the Grenadines in classic island style. Relax in a hammock, sip chilled Champagne on deck. Smooth and relaxing days... Dive or snorkel the Tobago Cays and explore pristine uninhabited islands... experience the culture and craft of Bequia or anchor off Canouan and enjoy the exclusive Golf and Spa of Raffles Resort. On board full service is provided with the traditional crew of six and an excellent chef.

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The Canouan Experience The spectacular Canouan Resort has the only spa in the Caribbean with nine treatment suites including two over-the-water spa palapas.

Photo: Courtesy Canouan Resort

Canouan In the heart of the Southern Grenadines lies a true gem - Canouan Island - the Caribbean’s newest luxury destination. Unspoiled and virtually undiscovered.

Sweeping bays play host to spectacular beaches that embrace each contour of this bird of paradise-shaped island. Islanders fish the abundant waters in traditional wooden boats, harvesting prize catch-of-the-day of tuna, parrotfish, and grouper. Underwater aficionados from every outpost of the world confirm these waters contain the finest coral conditions in the Caribbean.

Canouan Resort Year-round tropical splendour awaits the guests and residents embracing the shoreline of this oasis on the sea. Recent accolades of the extraordinary Canouan Resort include “Travel Channel’s #8 of “21 Hottest Caribbean Escapes” and Andrew Harper named Godhal Beach “ Beach of the Year”. Named one of the “Best Spas in the World” by ISLANDS Magazine.

Canouan Resort, Trump International Golf Club, and Treasure Island Casino collectively offer five-star dining, superior spa facilities and shopping, private yachting, entertainment, tennis, and golf. The exceptional spa features traditional and innovative treatments, including couples and in-room treatments.

The only spa in the Caribbean with 9 treatment suites including 2 over the water spa palapas.

Emerald green and perfectly designed by Jim Fazio, the 18-hole championship course is the most challenging in the Caribbean.

Proven recipe for a winning experience, is the newly opened Treasure Island Casino offers a good combination between table games, slot machines and a courteous and friendly staff. At Canouan Resort, guests choose from an eclectic mix of European, Italian and Caribbean-style dishes at their five restaurants.

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Canouan Nearby the Grenadines Estate is a community discreetly nestled into the hillside in utter concord with nature with breathtaking views of pure white sand beaches sloping gently into the turquoise waters. A low density development with an emphasis on protecting the environment. Each home’s irrigation system employs captured rainwater, and rooftop solar collectors help heat the hot-water system. Residents are among the fortunate few to enjoy the privileges and pleasures of resort life.

Canouan Resort and Grenadine Estates are an exclusive enclave, unsurpassed in its transcendent tranquillity yet within easy reach of major international gateways with scheduled flights from Barbados and Puerto Rico and shared or private charter from Barbados, St. Lucia, and Martinique.

Here on this “true jewel in the Caribbean crown” is a place “where people can mix and yet embrace the tranquility of a private estate” - feel free to call it heaven.

General Information Flights: The Canouan Jetport is serviced by SVG Airways, Mustique Airways, LIAT and Canouan Aviation. There are scheduled flights from Barbados, St. Lucia and Grenada on LIAT, Mustique Airways and SVG Airways.

Water & Land Taxi Services: Readily available on VHF 16.

Canouan Handling Service and Jus Once Taxi Service Tel: 784-4820674, 784-482-0095 or 784-458-8601. They offer an on-land taxi service, sell phone cards, take bookings and provide flight tickets for SVG Air. Banking: National Commercial Bank Tel: 784-452-4174. They are open 8am - 2pm Mon-Wed & Fri, and 8am to 5pm on Thurs.

Shopping and Services: Groceries are sold at the following: Dawles Cheapside Grocery Tel: 784-482-0674 or e-mail: macgif@hotmail.com Canouan Foods Ltd. Tel: 784-482-0679/593-3364 or e-mail:canouanfoods@gmail.com Rebecca’s Place Tel: 784-458-8024 or e-mail: mistert1930@cwblackberry.net The most popular destination for the island’s in vogue clientele is Canouan Resort Boutique Tel: 784-458-8000, located at Canouan Resort. Also at Canouan Resort is the new Galleria Watch and Jewellery boutique, featuring an exquisite range of irresistible jewellery and timepieces by the world’s most

Keith Miller

Grenadine Estates

The golf course at Canouan Resort, designed by Jim Fazio, is one of the most challenging and scenic in the Caribbean

renowned brand names. There are also boutiques at the Tamarind Beach Hotel and in the village, Bare Necessity and Teddy T’s.

Hardware is available at K&W Supplies.

Spas/Salons: Canouan Resort Spa - Tel: 784-458-8000 and Tamarind Beach Hotel Spa - Tel: 784-458-8044 both offer a wonderful selection of therapeutic massages. There is also an excellent hair salon at Canouan Resort. Diane’s Hair Salon offers manicures, pedicures and facials Tel: 784-432-6809.

Medical Facilities: The Canouan Health Centre, with a full time doctor and nursing staff, is located in Retreat Village. They are open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and on weekends for emergencies only Tel: 784-458-8305.

Customs and Immigration: Located at the airport.

Telephones & Internet: Wi-Fi is available at Lime, Adonal Foyle’s Bar, Canouan Resort and Tamarind Beach Hotel. Cell phone supplies are available from Lime.

Yacht Services & Supplies: Marcus (better known as ‘Iceman’), for ice, gas, moorings and water and he will also try to assist in other ways. Call VHF 16 or telephone his home 784-458-8375.

Garbage: There is a collection system on Canouan on Tuesdays and Fridays so you may leave your garbage in the bins provided.

There are strange currents in the bay so don’t even throw a banana skin overboard.

Diving: Canouan Dive Centre is located at The Moorings complex. There is also a dive shop at Tamarind Beach Hotel.

Tamarind Beach Hotel & Yacht Club Tel: 784-458-8044 Fax: 784-458-8851 e-mail: info@tamarind.us www.tamarindbeachhotel.com A lively beachfront oasis with 40 seaside hideaways on a long white sand beach.

The “Palapa Restaurant” offering Italian and West Indian cuisine and the “Pirate’s Cove” for light fare, live music and dancing.

Beach bar, water sports, boat trips and massage facilities.

On site PADI dive facilities.

Casino on site and open every afternoon.

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Simply luxury, just minutes from Barbados and St. Lucia, in the heart of the Grenadines. Bask in the warmth of our Caribbean welcome within the privacy and safety of our island. The luxurious five star resort showcases suites and villas many of which have private pools.

White sand beaches, tennis, water sports, five signature restaurants, a large freshwater swimming pool, an 18-hole Jim Fazio designed Trump International Golf Course, and the magnificent Canouan Resort Spa. Contact us for promotional offers.

For reservations: 1-784-458-8000 or reservations@canouan.com or www.canouan.com.

The Tobago Cays Experience The Tobago Cays are considered the most scenic anchorage in the Grenadines and, for many people, the entire Caribbean.

Photo: Dan Christaldi/Courtesy Chantours Caribbean

Tobago Cays Marine Park There remain few places on earth today that can match the unblemished natural beauty, easy accessibility and ‘feel good’ tranquility of the uninhabited Tobago Cays. Whether it’s a day trip or a few days on board a boat the relaxation is total and the beauty is all encompassing.

Located just a short boat ride from Palm Island, PSV, Canouan, Mayreau and Union Island, the Tobago Cays are a cluster of five tiny, uninhabited islands, collectively sheltered from the open sea by the appropriately named Horseshoe Reef. The shallow water of the lagoon surrounding the Cays inspires an ever-changing kaleidoscope of blues, greens and seemingly limitless shades of aquamarine, creating a truly picture perfect backdrop for the islands themselves – namely Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tabac and Jamesby.

With their powdery, white sand beaches, coconut palms, occasional cactus, rocky outcrops and greentopped hills, the Tobago Cays are the epitome of the classic, deserted tropical island; an opinion clearly endorsed by the producers of the hit movie Pirates of the Caribbean when they chose to film here on Petit Tabac, the only one of the five islands on the outer side of the Horseshoe Reef.

The Tobago Cays are considered the most scenic anchorage in the Grenadines and, for many people, the entire Caribbean. Without doubt, by virtue of its crystal clear, shallow water, abundant marine life and flourishing corals, it is a superb location for snorkeling. One of the most enjoyable ways of appreciating the captivating underwater beauty of the Tobago Cays is to travel by dinghy to the inner edge of the reef and then drift back in with the current towards the islands. Scuba divers have the bonus of being able to venture out onto the seaward side of the reef.

Local boat vendors often pass through the islands offering for sale everything from ice and bread, to fish and lobsters, T-shirts and even jewellery. Most of them will also be willing to run errands to nearby

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Zénon

Tobago Cays

islands. Please be aware that the lobster season is from September 1st to April 30th and it is illegal to purchase or possess lobster out of the open season.

In 1997 the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines implemented the Marine Parks Act, which declared the Tobago Cays a marine park, and then adopted formal marine park regulations in 1998. A year later St. Vincent and the Grenadines purchased the Tobago Cays from a private Holding Company for a price that was set well below market value, with the stipulation that it would remain a national park in perpetuity.

Today the Tobago Cays Marine Park (TCMP) encompasses nine islands, including the five uninhabited islands of the Tobago Cays as listed above, plus the populated island of Mayreau as well as Catholic Island, Jondall and Mayreau Baleine.

To learn more about the park, its resources and inhabitants, there is a TCMP Interpretation Centre located at Clifton Harbour on Union Island. In addition, it is possible to arrange a tour of the Tobago Cays with one of the TCMP park rangers.

All visitors to the Tobago Cays Marine Park are required to pay user fees according to the purpose of their visit; including visitors on private yachts, charter yachts, cruise ships, dive boats, who pay EC$10 per person and $5 for children aged 12 and under. The rate for a Yacht Mooring is EC$45 for 24-hours.

To refer to up-to-date fees or to get more detailed information, please contact: The Tobago Cays Marine Park Phone: 784-485-8191 Fax: 784-485-8192 e-mail: tcmp191@hotmail.com www.tobagocays.org

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Highlights of the Tobago Cays Marine Park Catholic Rock Bird Sanctuary: Various sea-bird nesting and roosting colonies can be observed from a boat, ideally using binoculars or telescope, or photographed with a good zoom lens.

Purunia Wreck: This wreck of a 140-foot World War I British gunship that sank in 1918 just off the western coast of Mayreau offers a good opportunity for scuba divers.

Mayreau Gardens: An excellent Coral Reef with lots of fish and colourful sponges for viewing by scuba divers.

Horse Shoe Reef: Snorkelers can visit this outstanding Coral Reef with an abundance of fish and coral inside the reef, while scuba divers can explore the magical world on the ocean side.

Baradal Turtle Sanctuary: This is a protected area, designated by marker buoys, where snorkelers can observe green and hawksbill turtles foraging freely.

Petit Tabac: This isolated beach and wild tropical garden was the location where the desert island scene in “Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl” was filmed.

Petit Bateau, Jamesby and Petit Rameau: Each of these delightful small islands offer surprisingly interesting hiking trails with an abundant variety of tropical flora, including bromeliads; as well as fauna such as iguanas, hermit crabs and birds. They also provide excellent panoramic views of the Grenadines. With shady areas and picnic tables, Petit Bateau provides the perfect picnic spot!

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Tobago Cays Grenadines Dive Tel: (784) 458-8138 Fax: (784) 458-8122 e-mail: gdive@grenadinesdive.com www.grenadinesdive.com Located at Clifton Harbour, Union Island, run by Naui instructor, Glenroy Adams - an efficient operation catering to small groups who like to be involved in planning their dives. Instructors are NAUI or PADI professionals - resort courses to full certification.

Their “rendezvous service” collects you from your yacht and takes you to any of the countless dive sites. As one diver put it, “The dive sites I visited seemed untouched. On many days I dove with the dive master only. On crowded days I dove with six others. This is SCUBA at its best...I have dived in areas ranging from the Pacific to the Indian Ocean, and from the Red Sea to Indonesia and beyond. The dive sites in your country rank on a world class level!”

Caribbean Schooner Cruises Friendship Rose 100ft Local Classic Sailing Schooner Tel: (784) 495-0886/9 e-mail: friendshiprose@mac.com www.friendshiprose.com Discover the Grenadines by Island Schooner. Daily cruises to the Tobago Cays, Mustique, Bequia and St. Vincent’s Tropical Coast.

Dive or snorkel the coral reefs. Explore uninhabited islands and perfect coral sand beaches. Sip Champagne on deck at Mustique, escape along St. Vincent’s tropical coast. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea and cake served. Drinks all day, all included.

Grenadines Cruise packages also available combining villa and hotel accommodation, inter-island connections and a selection of day cruises.

Sail Relax Explore Tel: 784-495-0886/9 or 784-457-3888 e-mail: sailrelaxexplore@mac.com www.sailrelaxexplore.com Yacht Charter and Day Cruises… from unique local boats and speedboats to crewed luxury yachts. Specialising in Short Grenadines Charters and Speedboat Adventure Days with picnics, snorkeling and diving; flights can be arranged throughout the Grenadines. Choose from a selection of Bareboat or Crewed Yachts, Catamarans, Monohulls, Traditional Sailing Schooners and a range of Speedboats. This friendly team help get you out on the water – for a day or longer…

Chantours Caribbean Inc. Tel: 246-432-5591/246-432-0703 email: reservations@chantours.com

www.chantours.com

Chantours can arrange anything from the exceptional and exclusive, to the simple and sublime. For the total indulgence, charter a stylish crewed yacht for a day….or a few days, and tailor everything from the menus to your itinerary. Perhaps combine a yachting holiday with a few days at an island villa or resort. NEW stateroom charters allow guests to simply reserve their own spacious cabin and Chantours will take care of the rest! ~ Day Escapes ~ Stylish Crewed Yachts ~ Luxurious Villas & Resorts ~ Private Aircraft Charters ~

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The Mayreau Experience Some 94% of the island remains completely natural, absent of buildings or roads. Instead, nature trails lead visitors through the low canopy forest, which is abundant with fauna and flora.

Saltwhistle Bay Photo: Christine Wilkie

Mayreau Unique among the Grenadine islands for their FrenchCatholic heritage, the people of Mayreau are also unique in their traditional community-spirited way of life. On this island which has no airport, a single unnamed village, one road, no bank, rain-caught drinking water and superb white-sand beaches, where electricity was introduced in 2003, you will find a unique small island society.

The mail boat, which comes six days a week bringing supplies, provides affordable transport for residents to and from St. Vincent and the other Grenadine islands. There is a primary school but children have to go to Union Island or St. Vincent for their secondary education. Although the village does cater to visitors, with several bars and restaurants, a T-shirt and souvenir shop, as well as Dennis’ Guest House, it is still essentially a relatively untouched, traditional fishing village where most families own a fishing boat.

There are nature trails for hiking in the bush with local guides and there is a profusion of wildlife and harmless reptiles that include iguana, tortoise, tree frog, ground lizard and the beautiful boa snake. Of the many bird species, the most striking are the mockingbird, bananaquit, cuckoo and tiny hummingbird.

Seabirds, specifically frigate, pelican and gull, are everywhere.

Besides the nature trails and beautiful beaches, one of Mayreau’s main attractions is undoubtedly the small stone-built Roman Catholic Church located on a hill above the village. Built in 1929 and blessed by a Belgian Benedictine monk, it affords one of the best views in the Grenadines. Located there, in the community’s Marine Centre, is an eco-tourism project dedicated to the study and protection of the island’s marine environment.

They have created an interesting natural history museum of Mayreau. The gift shop, in a replica wattle and daub house representative of what all houses in Mayreau were like fifty years ago, is where residents make crafts to sell. A taxi is usually available to take visitors into the village from both Saltwhistle Bay and Saline Bay. There are many beautiful beaches in Mayreau. Magnificent and tranquil Saltwhistle Bay is where the small resort by the same name is spread out under the palm trees. Saltwhistle Bay is a favourite anchorage of many sailors, scoring high points for calmness. There are many reefs east of the island, so travel in good light and study the charts carefully. Saline Bay in the south, with its nearly mile long, white sandy beach is very popular with visitors. Do not dispose of your garbage in Mayreau, there is no dump here. Do not give it to anyone to dispose of for you either, it will only end up in the sea or strewn elsewhere.

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Mayreau

Mayreau: A Traditional Caribbean Island In Renaissance Only minutes by water taxi from PSV and Palm Island and barely 30 minutes by speedboat to Mustique, Mayreau remains a pristine enclave of sandy beaches, and boasts a vibrant local culture. While the small fishing village welcomes visitors, the island remains relatively untouched by tourism and makes a most worthwhile destination.

Mayreau today is home to just over 200 residents – much the same as it was a hundred years ago. But not only the population has remained constant: traditional ceremonies remain a vibrant custom, herbal remedies are readily available, drinking water is still collected from the rain, and peace and quiet reign supreme.

Some 94% of the island remains completely natural, absent of buildings or roads. Instead, nature trails lead visitors through the low canopy forest, which is abundant with fauna and flora. Off island, among the coral reefs of the Tobago Cays, a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and sea turtles delight snorkelers and divers.

Visitors enjoy not only the island’s natural beauty, but also its pace, which harkens back some 100 years to a time when life was less complicated. The days simply seem to pass slower on Mayreau, which only adds to its charm and character.

Retaining that laid-back lifestyle is among the first priorities of Canadian developer Chris MacLean, who commenced construction of the Tribu villa resort on Mayreau in August 2010: “Just like Mayreau, Tribu will be exquisite, but small and discrete,” he explains. “I travelled to so many beaches and islands before I arrived here. When at last I did, for the first time I felt I had discovered something real and special – Tribu will only add to Mayreau’s uniqueness.”

Based on a model that other developers would do well to emulate, a percentage of the revenue generated from resort real estate sales and operations will go to the Tribu – Mayreau Island Foundation, whose sole purpose is to benefit the local community. What’s more, the first family to have purchased a Tribu residence generously donated of their own volition to the school even before their villa’s completion. Their gift has enabled the top 3 graduates of 2010 to continue their education.

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According to John Roache, a socially active resident, and winner of the prestigious Caribbean Unsung Hero Award: “As the Tribu developers and owners continue to give back to the community, Mayreau and her residents are sure to flourish.”

The developer plans to do just that. Already, they are hiring young adults who had moved away in search of work, and were eager to return home. As of press time, the site infrastructure has been completed, and a first villa, 4 luxury suites, and beach amenities are under construction.

“We plan to offer micro financing programs so that Mayreau residents can grow local business, rather than be dependent on off-island enterprises. This will further help to maintain the island’s traditional ambiance,” explains Will Azeff, Vice President of Development, Tribu Resorts. “We look forward to creating a source of steady employment that will allow residents to continue living and raising their families here together, rather than parting in search of work.”

The luxury resort development should provide significant revenue for Mayreau, without overwhelming the island or altering its character. Tribu has been carefully master planned to discreetly blend into the surrounding landscape. A clubhouse, restaurant, and 5-star personalized service will attend to the needs of the owners and guests at but 9 beachfront residences and a scattering of suites. Each home will offer views to the ocean, and be connected to the clubhouse and amenities by cart paths meandering through beautifully landscaped tropical vegetation. What’s more, great measures have been taken to include sound environmental features into Tribu Resort, ranging from rainwater recapture and LED lighting, to high efficiency plumbing fixtures and solar water heating panels.

All in all, Mayreau appears poised for a renaissance – one that will see it move forward to welcome new residents and new opportunities, even while protecting all that make it today a mustsee destination.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

The Grenadines Experience The tiny islet of Morpion, which means bed bug in French, is perched in the open sea close to PSV and Palm Island, and is accessible by boat. There is a warm pool on the shoreline here that is wonderful for a therapeutic soak.

Lorem ipsum Morpion Andrew Dan Christaldi Hulsmeier

Private Island Resorts The southern Grenadines is home to two relatively small, pleasantly exclusive, private island resorts Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent - both of which often inspire travel writers from all around the world to reel off a succession of adjectives such as ‘idyllic’, ‘pristine’ and ‘blissful’. These two resorts are similar in that they are both true tropical island hideaways that can provide the ultimate in vacation relaxation; yet they differ by each having their own very distinct character.

Petit St. Vincent, or PSV as it is often more familiarly called, is a tiny island that is almost totally surrounded by white sand beaches and blessed with ample natural beauty. Twenty-two private cottages are scattered over its varied terrain of 113 acres. While some are perched on hillsides, others set into the sides of cliffs and some right on the beach, they are all absolutely heavenly. For most people the greatest appeal of PSV is what it does not have. There are no telephones or television, no air-conditioning and no casinos or cabarets. Not even room keys. In the interest of guests’ privacy, access by non-guests is limited to the main building which houses the bar, restaurant and boutique.

Meals are served in the open-plan pavilion overlooking the bay, though many guests prefer to enjoy breakfast and afternoon tea in their cottage. As there are no telephones on PSV, when you need something from Room Service all you have to do is raise a yellow flag on the bamboo flagpole outside and leave a note. One of the room service patrols will spot it and bring whatever you have ordered. The entire team at PSV is dedicated to ensuring that their guests are free to relax in the ultimate peaceful surroundings.

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Photos courtesy Palm Island Resort

Private Island Resorts

Palm Island Palm Island is a 135-acre tropical paradise within the Grenadines archipelago that runs between St. Vincent and Grenada and it is easily reached via a 45-minute flight from Barbados to neighbouring Union Island, followed by an exhilarating 8-minute boat trip.

When you stay at the idyllic Palm Island Resort you literally have an entire island at your disposal. For total relaxation, lazy days on Palm revolve around five superb white sand beaches, incredibly blue, calm sea that offers truly perfect swimming conditions, interesting beachcombing, walks along nature trails, reading under shady palms or just snoozing in a hammock.

For those who prefer some activity, Palm offers complimentary tennis, croquet, table tennis, casual Palm Island style golf, cycling, shuffleboard and an array of non-motorized water sports.

Palm’s helpful Guest Services staff can also arrange memorable excursions to the Tobago Cays as well as scuba diving, saltwater fly-fishing, deep-sea fishing charters or a beautiful sunset sail.

Elegant evenings on Palm traditionally begin with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the alfresco bar and end with delicious candlelit dinners in the Royal Palm restaurant.

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With a mangrove lake, lots of interesting birds and indigenous iguanas, a fascinating shoreline and close proximity to the worldfamous Tobago Cays marine park, Palm is a real haven for nature lovers. Consequently, great care has been taken to ensure the resort remains in harmony with its untouched natural surroundings. The 43 charming guest rooms have all been carefully designed to blend in with their island setting. Over half of them sit right on the edge of the beach, while others are situated in shady palm groves just steps from the sea.

All of the rooms are air conditioned and elegantly appointed with custom bamboo furnishings and woven rattan ceilings; and equipped with kettles, coffee makers, mini-fridges, safes, hair dryers and comfortable cotton bathrobes.

For guests in search of something different, Palm Island also offers two delightful 3-bedroom villas one perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, offering complete privacy and spectacular views and the other right on the beach.

The all-inclusive Palm Island retreat includes three superb meals a day with a choice of two restaurants, daily afternoon tea, weekly manager's cocktail parties, top-shelf beverages and beach barbecues. Guest facilities include a boutique, a spa, a library, a satellite TV lounge, Internet access and a freshwater swimming pool.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Where the World Stops to Relax...

Recent winner of St. Vincent and The Grenadines’ Leading Boutique Hotel

by World Travel Awards 2009, Palm Island creates a world of unparalleled luxury and tranquility. Couples relax and recharge amid a Caribbean paradise of five secluded powder-soft beaches, swaying coconut trees and lush tropical gardens. While some prefer to simply lounge by water’s edge, others stroll panoramic hiking trails that show off indigenous flora and fauna, including exotic iguanas. Days can also be spent sailing, snorkeling, kayaking or exploring the surrounding Tobago Cays. As the sun sets, lovers savor romantic cruises, cocktails at the bar or dinner for two beachside. Two gourmet restaurants with outdoor dining serve up true island delights.

Palm Island Resort Tel: (784) 458-8824 reservations@palmislandcaribbean.com

www.palmislandcaribbean.com

Sally Miller

Private Villas

Palm Villa is one of several houses available for rent on Palm Island

Private Villas in Palm Island In addition to the exclusive Palm Island Resort, Palm Island also has a selection of privately owned homes available for rent at very reasonable charges. Ranging from 2 to 5 bedrooms they are all located on the beach with wonderful views of the Grenadines. They are ideal for family vacations - large families rent two and three villas situated next to each other. Daily

housekeeping is provided by staff who take a 10 minute boat ride over from Union Island. They will also prepare meals on request. For Caribbean families who own a boat this is an ideal vacation using Palm as a base and visiting the neighbouring islands of Mayreau, Tobago Cays Marine Park, Canouan, Mustique, PSV and Union. Yannis Sail, Chantours and Wind and Sea all offer day charters out of Union Island.

They collect guests from the Palm Island jetty and go for a day out sailing with lunch and snorkeling. The boat taxis from Union will also take guests to neighbouring islands.

Palm Island has five beautiful beaches and is also a nature sanctuary for both the Caribbean iguana and an interesting collection of resident and migratory birds in the mangrove waterway.

There are trails for running or just walking and enjoying the nature and the spectacular views.

The small yacht club serves drinks, lunch and dinner to villas guests with a once weekly barbeque with live entertainment. The snorkeling around Palm Island is wonderful and divers can go diving with Grenadines Dive located in Union. Couples who want to get away from it all and have a really chilled out vacation also love staying in a Palm Island private home. Chantours, Grenadine Island Estates and Erikas Marine all act as agents for the homes on Palm Island and will take care of all transfers and delivery of supplies for the houses which come from Union Island.

Are you looking for a vacation with a difference, with a big emphasis on natural beauty, peace and quiet and rest and relaxation? If so, you need to know about one of the best-kept secrets in the Grenadines – the privately owned homes on Palm Island that are available for vacation rentals. These comfortable beach cottages, ranging from 2 to 5 bedrooms, are located right on the beach with spectacular views of the surrounding Grenadine islands. It is an ideal holiday for families, couples or anybody who just wants to get away from it all.

PalmVilla

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For reservations and further information: Tel: (246) 262-5874 e-mail: keith@millerpublishing.net info@grenadineislandestates.com info@erikamarine.com reservations@chantours.com

Private Villas

Grenadines Island Estates Grenadines Island Estates would like to offer you the chance to enjoy a piece of paradise in one of the most beautiful prestige locations in the Caribbean.

Grenadines Island Estates offers a wide range of property selections such as pristine beach front and ocean view land, beachfront villas, hotels, guesthouses and even a 300 hundred acre private island for sale.

- Land valuations and surveys - Property management - Beachfront and luxury villa rentals - Ocean view cottage rentals - Airport pickups - Private boat transfer between Islands Grenadines Island Estates, Clifton, Union Island Tel: 784 458 8253 Fax: 784 458 8253 e-mail : info@grenadinesislandestates.com www.grenadinesislandestates.com

Villa Rentals Villa Rentals

GRENADINES ISLAND ESTATES A dream you can believe TEL: 784 458 8253 FAX: 784 458 8253 www.grenadinesislandestates.com

Beachfront Properties Beachfront Properties The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

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The Union Island Experience Mount Taboi is the highest mountain peak in the Grenadines. At 1000 ft. it affords spectacular views of the southern Grenadines in both directions to Grenada and St. Vincent.

Mt. Taboi in Union Island with Chatham Bay in the foreground and Palm Island in the distance Dan Christaldi

UnionIsland Union’s dramatic landscape, tranquil shorelines and warm and friendly inhabitants make it a wonderful stop for yachtsmen, as well as escapists seeking a real “get-away-from-it-all” vacation. From here you can sail in under an hour to Mayreau, the Tobago Cays, Petit St. Vincent and Palm Island.

Amerindian tribes from South America used it as a stop-off point and ecological discoveries have established that they settled here from as early as 5400BC and remained until the 1750s when the Europeans arrived. A 1778 report states that the population of Union was comprised of 16 Europeans (10 French and 6 English) and 430 African slaves. The colonists grew cotton and their substantial harvests yielded 250,000 pounds per year. The island was leased for £150 per annum to a Scotsman, Charles Mulzac. Apart from a limited trade of poultry, turtle shells and wood to neighbouring islands, most inhabitants relied on subsistence farming for survival. Charles Mulzac’s grandson, Hugh, was the pride of Union in 1940 when he became the first black man to command a ship of the American Navy, the “Booker T. Washington.” The main square in Clifton is named after him.

The British Crown bought the island in 1910 and set up the Union Island Land Settlement Scheme. The island was divided into two and four-acre parcels and sold to the local population at exceptional credit rates. A steady flow of emigrants headed towards the USA and the larger neighbouring islands. Union Island men earned a reputation as excellent seamen and money earned was used to build homes and develop economic activities.

The island’s first car was unloaded in 1956, the first secondary school was opened in 1972 and the airport was opened in 1974. Today, this island of 13.7 square miles, with its dry climate, average temperature of 82 degrees, in the midst of some of the best sailing and diving waters in the western hemisphere, is attracting an ever increasing number of visitors to its shores. The small airstrip makes the island easily accessible, with regular scheduled flights from St. Vincent, as well as Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia, Martinique or Trinidad. Union can also be reached by ferry from St. Vincent, and just recently, from Carriacou connecting to a ferry to Grenada – very scenic trips and a lovely way to see the island chains.

Sourced from A Socio-Political History of Union Island, by Jacques Daudin, available in stores.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

133

Union Island Sightseeing To go on a sightseeing tour in Union Island or to get to the beautiful west coast beaches, you can hire mini vans or rent 4wheel drive vehicles or scooters. This can be arranged through the Tourist Bureau 784-458-8350. Water taxis are also a popular mode of transport and are available in Clifton Harbour. Call Erika’s Marine at 784-485-8335 and they will arrange a water taxi for you. Fort Hill, built sometime in the 17th century is situated on a hill above Clifton Harbour and can be reached by 4-wheel drive vehicle. It is 450-feet high and has a panoramic view stretching from St. Vincent in the north to Grenada in the south. Mount Taboi is the highest mountain peak in the Grenadines. At 1000-feet it affords spectacular views of the southern Grenadines. You have to be pretty fit, with a head for heights, to manage this climb. There are plenty of less strenuous hikes such as over to Chatham Bay and through Campbell to the historical Basket Pond and Fort Irene. Visitors are welcome to join the Union Island Environment Attackers in turtle watching from 1st March until 31st of July or bird watching. They are discovering many species of birds in Union Island. To find out when they are next going contact Roseman Adams at 784-485-8082.

Dan Christaldi

General Information

Clifton Harbour in Union Island

Beaches & Anchorages Clifton Harbour is a small, busy port and the centre of the daychartering industry in the southern Grenadines. It is the most popular mooring as it is within close proximity to the Anchorage Yacht Club, Bougainvilla, Erika’s Marine, numerous restaurants and bars, provisioning services, hotels and guest houses, and tourist information services. When arriving from the south, stay well clear of Grand de Coi. If approaching from the north be sure to avoid Newlands Reef which protects the harbour. One of the first things you will see is Janti’s Bar on Happy Island. Janti built the island himself out of very old discarded conch shells, using the dead reef which rings the harbour as a base! He has solar generated electricity and serves food and drinks.

Ashton Harbour and Chatham Bay are less crowded and far more secluded anchorages. Frigate Island is also an anchorage.

Sun, sea and sand lovers will enjoy Chatham Bay on the west coast (it is also a protected anchorage) and Bloody Bay, on the northwest coast, with its captivating view and long sandy beach.

Bigsand is a crescent-shaped beach on the east coast. Richmond Bay on the north coast is shallow and ideal for children. (Beware of the poisonous manchineel trees - the fruit and leaves can cause blisters on the skin if touched).

134

Information and assistance can be obtained from Mrs. Nicole Delpeche at the Tourism Bureau in Clifton Tel: 784-4588350, open daily 9am-4pm, or Erika's Marine at 784-485-8335.

Ferry Services – Ferry services to and from St. Vincent, Bequia, Canouan and Mayreau with the Barracuda, Gem Star and the Jaden Sun are listed on page 15.

The ferry "Jasper" makes regular trips to Carriacou every Monday and Thursday morning and returns in the afternoon.

This also gives visitors an opportunity to catch the Osprey ferry in Carriacou to travel to Grenada if they so desire.

Customs & Immigration – Clifton is the southern port of entry for customs clearance in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Customs is located by the main wharf in Clifton Harbour Tel: 485-8294 (open Mon. - Fri. 8:30am-4pm), and at the Airport Tel: 458-8360 (open daily from 7am-6pm). Immigration service for the yachtsmen is now also offered in the Union Island Tourist Information Office on Monday to Friday from 9am-4pm, lunch break at 12:00-1pm. (The immigration office is still at the airport as well.)

Banking – National Commercial Bank is open Mon. - Fri. 8am-1pm and Friday 3pm-5pm. There is a 24-hr ATM machine.

Medical Services - A Clinic located in central Clifton on Clifton hill is readily available for health services. Harvey's Pharmacy located on Backstreet in Clifton is available for medications and more. Pharmancy hours are 9am - 7pm (closed from 1pm to 4pm), Mondays to Saturday.

Festivals - Easterval is Union Island’s annual carnival, a week long festival held every Easter featuring music, a street party, parade, cultural events and marvellous local food.

Maroon Festival – This festival involves traditional dancing and drumming. There are several different dances. The Cake dance is done during traditional weddings..

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Union Island Shopping & Services The main street of Clifton Village in Union Island is lined on either side with shops and businesses offering goods and services to visiting yachtspeople and guests in the southern Grenadines. The action is at its peak in the afternoons when the ferries arrive. People come down to the dock to collect their mail and various goods ordered from St. Vincent and catch up on the island news.

When shopping for groceries in Clifton you’ll be surprised at the incredibly wide selection of high quality food items. Fresh fruit and vegetables are sold at the colourful little market stands

by Hugh Mulzac Square and about three minutes further along the main street. Fresh fish is sold at the fisheries next to the Customs. Fish can also be bought frozen from McIntosh cold storage located in Clifton, which is a one minute walk from the Post office, heading towards the Clifton Hill.

The tastiest pastries and fresh bread are sold on the Bougainvilla jetty or at the small bakery next to Erika’s Marine.

Fresh bread is also available at the Grand Union supermarket from as early as 6:00am in the morning, catering for the early shoppers. If you’re serious about stocking up, the shops will deliver goods to your yacht or villa if required. Captain Gourmet carries an excellent choice of quality grocery items, including imported meat and wines. Erika’s Marine provide wireless Internet and the use of their computers, marine services such as laundry, travel arrangements, customs clearance, a good book exchange service and DVD rentals.

Captain Gourmet Clifton, Union Island Tel/Fax: 784-458-8918 VHF 08 e-mail: capgourmet@vincysurf.com

www.capgourmet.com

The grocery you are wishing for! Excellent choice and quality of products, such as daily made fresh yogurt, cheeses, baguettes and croissants baked on the premises, choice cuts of imported meat, European sausages and hams, plus a first-rate selection of wines, liquors and Cuban cigars.

Deliveries to Mayreau, Palm Island, Petit St. Vincent and the world famous Tobago Cays, as well as around Union Island.

Credit cards, Euros and USD accepted.

Erika's Land & Villa Agents Tel: 784-485-8335 Mobile: 784-494-1212 North America Tel: 416-848-7325 Fax: 784-485-8336 e-mail: realestate@erikamarine.com www.erikamarine.com/realestatesales When looking for land, whether for commercial use or to build that dream vacation or retirement villa, look to Union Island. A magnificent volcanic island set in the Caribbean Sea, unspoiled and peaceful, you will find it to be an idyllic location. Erika's is a full service realtor, providing legal services, land surveying and plenty of support to help ease the process, especially for foreign purchasers.

Call them today, or check their listings online. Erika's has a wide range of excellent properties, just waiting for you to fall in love with.

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

135

Union Island Anchorage Yacht Club Tel: (784) 493 0696, (784) 529 0422 or (784) 458 8221 Skype: p.chevailler e-mail: palmdoc@vincysurf.com www.anchorage-union.com Long renowned as the focal point of the Southern Grenadines, Anchorage Yacht Club has recaptured its former glory under new ownership and management. With four delightful cottages and one two-bedroom suite right on the beach, as well as a good restaurant, Anchorage is a haven for all travellers. The convenient dock can accommodate visiting yachts and services include access to diesel, water, ice, laundry and garbage disposal. There is also a boutique selling souvenirs, clothes, art and amenities.

Yannis Charters Anchorage Yacht Club, Clifton, Union Island Tel: (784) 458-8513/8221 www.yannissail.com e-mail: yannis@vincysurf.com Charter a fully refurbished catamaran and sail the Southern Grenadines.... Mayreau, Morpion, Petit St. Vincent and beyond.

Discover beautiful beaches, enjoy snorkeling on amazing reefs, sunbathe on the hammock nets and just relax and unwind. Do as little or as much as you want.

Lunch and snacks freshly prepared and drinks throughout the day.

All snorkeling equipment provided. Enjoyment guaranteed.

Amerindi Bigsand Beach, Union Island Tel: 784 485 8447 e-mail: info@amerindi.com

www.amerindi.com

Amerindi is a beautiful, small boutique hotel with only 10 suites located directly on the beach. It is sure to delight travellers looking to unwind away from the crowds in an atmosphere of relaxed luxury and personal attention. And with Amerindi's Truly AllInclusive experience, all meals, drinks, fruit and minibar, as well as unlimited massages, manicures, pedicures and spa treatments, excursions on the island, picnics and much more is included in the rate!

Marine View Apartments Ashton, Union Island Tel: 784-526-3434 784-485-8400 Email: marineviewhotel@gmail.com Eight fully furnished, spacious, air-conditioned rooms with complete kitchen facilities, televisions, ceiling fans and a large porch. A variety of accommodation to fit any budget. These secluded and quiet apartments nestle between the hills of Union Island and the Ashton waterfront. Marine View is a perfect hideaway with wonderful views of Carriacou and Palm Island and the lush interior of Union. 8 mins from the airport, shopping and restaurants.

136

Union Island

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

137

Union Island

Bougainvilla Bougainvilla is a wonderful facility for yachtsmen in the heart of Clifton Harbour in Union Island: dock, water, fresh bread and pastries, ice, restaurant " The Aquarium " serving fresh sea food everyday, a boutique selling high quality swimwear and souvenirs, and a free Wifi service.

Wind and Sea Wind and Sea, located at Bougainvilla in Union Island, has 27 years of experience in the Grenadines. With several beautiful catamarans they offer two distinct services. First as an agent and tour operator to cruise ships coming to the southern Grenadines, they arrange beach BBQ’s, beach cocktail parties, games or boat excusions to the neighbouring Grenadine islands. Secondly they offer private day charters to the surrounding islands of Mayreau, the Tobago Cays, Palm Island, Canouan, Bequia, St. Vincent, Mustique, PSV and Morpion.

They collect guests from anywhere between St. Vincent and PSV and go to the destinations of their choice. The boats are well staffed, spacious and comfortable with a fully stocked bar.

Lunch is either a buffet on board or in one of the islands.

Snorkelling equipment is supplied.

L’Aquarium Restaurant L’Aquarium is the restaurant at Bougainvilla and features a huge sea water aquarium full of tropical fish, along with a lobster aquarium where diners can choose their own live lobster. They serve French and Creole cuisine specializing in seafood and fresh fish. Sashimi is served at both lunch and dinner. Check out the oceanside bar and pizzeria.

Tel: 784-458-8678/8878 Fax: 784-458-8311 e-mail: windandsea@vincysurf.com www.grenadines-bougainvilla.com www.grenadines-windandsea.com

138

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Explore the beautiful islands of St.Vincent and the Grenadines

Mayreau

Morpion Island

Ti Marouba

52 ft long catamaran Max capacity - 50 persons

Palm Island

Mustique

Bequia

Sun Spirit

AND

Canouan

Sky Flirt

62 ft long catamaran Max capacity - 72 persons

WIND

Tobago Cays

85 ft long catamaran Max capacity - 90 persons

SEA

Specialist in day - sailing charters www.grenadines-windandsea.com Bougainvilla • Union Island • Tel: 1784 45 88 344/678 • Cell: 1784 493 31 28 • windandsea@vincysurf.com

Adams Apartments

9

Bay Hill Apartments

29

Beachcombers Hotel

66,67

32

Breezeville Apartments

62

7

Canash Beach Apartment Hotel

66

26

Cobblestone Inn

62

26

Fairview Guest House

6

Fitness Quest

8

Fort View Apartments

7

Grand View Beach Hotel

64

19

Grenadine House

68

20

Haddon Hotel

20

Heron Heritage Hotel

8

Hillside Apartments

69

7

Hotel Alexandrina

62

17

James Apartments

69

6

Kings Inn

69

5

64, 65

20

Mariners Hotel New Montrose Hotel

24

Oasis Argyle Resort Villa

7

OD’s Apartments

8

Paradise Beach Hotel

65

14

Phoenix Apartments

69

9

Richview Guest House

69

14

Ridgeview Terrace Apartments

69

5

Rosewood Apartment Hotel

68

10

Sea Breeze Guest House

69

5

Seasplash Apartments

66

7

Sky Blue Beach Apartments

69

8

Sunset Shores Beach Hotel

66, 67

32

Tranquillity Beach Apt. Hotel

69

7

Tropic Breeze Hotel

13

Villa Lodge Hotel

11

Young Island Resort

Palm Island Resort Petit St. Vincent Resort

56,62,63

29

128,129

41 22

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Villa Villa Beach New Montrose Argyle Harmony Hall Villa Beach New Montrose Sion Hill Bay Ratho Mill Villa Arnos Vale

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Indian Bay Villa Indian Bay Queens Dr. Indian Bay Young Island Palm Island PSV Island

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this accommodation guide some information is subject to change without notice.

Unless stated otherwise, prices shown are daily rates, double occupancy, quoted in US dollars and subject to local taxes and service charge.

SU M AP ME R R D 1 RA EC 6/ T 1 14 1 ES /1 1

IN T DE ER C RA AP 1 5 T R /10 ES 15 /1 1

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5 mins

784-458-4656

784-456-4728

info@adamsapts.com

www.adamsapts.com

$55

$33

5 mins

784-456-5419/4480

784-456-1301

contact@bayhill-apartments.com

www.bayhill-apartments.com

$55 - $65

$55 - $65

5-7 mins

784-458-4283

784-458-4385

beachcombers@vincysurf.com

www.beachcombershotel.com

Check Website

Check Website

5 mins

784-458-4641

784-457-4468

frontdesk@villalodge.com

www.villalodge.com

$150

$135

15 mins

784-493-3076

784-456-2658

info@canashbeachapartments.com

www.canashbeachapartments.com

$115

$115

10 mins

784-456-1937

784-456-1938

cobblestone@vincysurf.com

www.thecobblestoneinn.com

$75 - $95

$75 - $95

10 mins

784-453-1538/432-1411

caribbean.sun@hotmail.com

www.caribbeansunenterprises.net

$95 - $140

$80 - $140

5 mins

784-457-5898

fittnessquest@gmail.com

www.fitnessquestsvg.com

$90

$90

15 mins

784-451-2005

fortview97@yahoo.com

$40 - $45

$40 - $45

5 mins

784-458-4811

784-457-4174

grandview@vincysurf.com

www.grandviewhotel.com

$175- $215

$130 - $170

15 mins

784-458-1800

784-458-1333

stay@grenadinehouse.com

www.grenadinehouse.com

$208 - $331

$189 - $312

5 mins

784-456-1897

784-456-2027

info@newhaddonhotel.com

www.newhaddonhotel.com

$105 - $175

$105 - $175

15 mins

784-457-1631

784-457-1631

innsvg@yahoo.com/innsvg@vincysurf.com

www.svghotels.com

$65 - $75

$65 - $75

5 mins

784-457-5134

784-457-4678

hillside@vincysurf.com

www.hillsideapartmentssvg.com

$60 - $115

$60 - $115

12 mins

784-456-9788

784-456-9799

hotelalexandrina@aol.com

www.hotelalexandrina.com

$85 - $195

$85 - $195

10 mins

784-457-8147/457/7157

7 mins

784-457-4086

kingba@aol.com

www.kingsinn-svg.com

$49

$49

10 mins

784-457-4000

784-457-4333

reservations@marinershotel.com

www.marinershotel.com

$145 - $175

$125 - $155

6 mins

784-457-0172

784-457-0213

newmontrosehotel@vincysurf.com

www.newmontrosehotel.com

$84 - $120

$84 - $120

20 mins

784-458-0180

shirleypjones@vincysurf.com

www.oasisretreatsvg.com

$70 - $140

$70 - $140

15 mins

784-457-5651

784-457-5651

odsapts@yahoo.com/services@ods-apt.com

www.ods-apts.com

$60

$60

5 mins

784-457-4795

784-457-4221

info@paradisesvg.com

www.paradisesvg.com

$80 - $110

$70 - $110

10 mins

784-457-9481

784-456-7677

phoenixsvg@yahoo.com

www.phoenixholapt.com

$42 - $63

$42 - $63

richview06@yahoo.com

www.richviewguesthouse.com

784-482-9500/533-4137 7 mins

784-430-1015

784-457-5959

rojen@vincysurf.com

www.ridgeviewterrace.com

$50 - $70

$50 - $70

5 mins

784-457-5051

784-457-5141

rosewood@vincysurf.com

www.rosewoodsvg.com

$78 - $86

$75 - $82

3 mins

784-458-4969

$35

$35

10 mins

784-431-1085

784-451-2777

info@seasplashapartments.com

www.seasplashapartments.com

$95

$95

10 mins

784-457-4394

784-457-5232

skyblue@vincysurf.com

www.skybluebeach.com

$70

$70

5 mins

784-458-4411

784-457-4800

sunshore@vincysurf.com

www.sunsetshores.com

$120 - $180

$95 - $135

5 mins

784-458-4021

info@tranquillityhotel.com

www.tranquillityhotel.com

$60 - $70

$60 - $70

5 mins

784-458-4618

784-456-4592

tropbrez@caribsurf.com

www.tropicbreezesvg.com

$75 - $90

$75 - $90

5 mins

784-458-4641

784-457-4468

frontdesk@villalodge.com

www.villalodge.com

$110 - $150

$95 - $135

8-10 mins

784-458-4826

784-457-4567

reservations@youngisland.com

www.youngisland.com

$532 - $1,222

$472 - $934

784-458-8824

784-458-8804

palm@vincysurf.com

www.palmislandcaribbean.com

$935 - $1,365

$725 - $1,155

954-963-7401

954-963-7402

info@psvresort.com

www.psvresort.com

Check Website

Check Website

seabreezetours@vincysurf.com

Some hotels have peak periods within the Winter Season when rates may vary. A number of the hotels offer specials during the Summer Season - these rates are available on request.

Please check with the individual property or the SVG Hotel & Tourism Association: Tel: (784) 458-4379, or visit their website at www.svghotels.com, for up-to-date information.

Bequia Bequia Beach Hotel

100,101

Bequia Beachfront Villa Hotel

32 5

De Reef Apartments

107

6

Firefly Plantation Hotel Bequia

100

8

100,101

15

100

10

Frangipani Hotel Gingerbread Hotel

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Friendship Bay Friendship Bay Lower Bay

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Admiralty Bay Admiralty Bay

Grenadine Escape

Rental Villas throughout SVG

Grenadine Island Villas

Rental Villas throughout SVG

HazECO Apts.

106

7

Hibiscus Apartments

107

4

Island Inn Apartments

6

Kingsville Apartments

101

8

Lime Cottage & Lime Studio

107

4

Ocean Breeze House

107

3

Sea Shells Apartments

107

3

Spring House Bequia

105

8

Sugarapple Inn

107

8

The Nest & Treetop

107

2

The Village Apartments

107

7

112,113

19

Mustique Cotton House Firefly Hotel

5

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Canouan Tamarind Beach Hotel

3

40

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10

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115,117

45

116

Mayreau Saltwhistle Bay Club

Union Island Amerindi Anchorage Yacht Club Bougainvilla Hotel

136

10

136,137

11

138

12

Clifton Beach Hotel

30

Kings Landing

17

Marine View Apartments

Mustique Mustique

The Mustique Company

Canouan Resort

Spring Friendship Bay

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Belmont

136

8

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AC & F AC & F AC AC & F AC & F AC & F

3

.

.

Canouan Canouan

Mayreau

. .

Big Sand Beach Union Island Clifton Bay Clifton Clifton Ashton

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this accommodation guide some information is subject to change without notice.

Unless stated otherwise, prices shown are daily rates, double occupancy, quoted in US dollars and subject to local taxes and service charge.

SU M A P ME R R D 1 RA EC 6/ T 1 1 4 1 ES /1 1

IN T DE ER C RA AP 15 T R /10 ES 15 /1 1

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W

T

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EM AI L

D TO IST AI AN R CE PO RT

E EL

E

N

O

PH

10 mins

784-458-1600

784-458-1700

info@bequiabeach.com

www.bequiabeach.com

$275 - $900

$180 - $700

5 mins

784-457-3423

784-495-4036

ftvhotel@surfbvi.com

www.bequiabeachfrontvillas.com

$522

$200

15 mins

784-458-3412/3484

784-457-3103

30 mins

784-458-3414

784-457-3305

anita@fireflybequia.com

www.fireflybequia.com

$495

$395

15 mins

784-458-3255

784-458-3824

reservations@frangipanibequia.com

www.frangipanibequia.com

$65 - $250

$50 - $180

15 mins

784-458-3800

784-458-3907

ginger@vincysurf.com

www.gingerbreadhotel.com

$130 - $215

$100 - $155

44-208-749-1157 (UK)

enquiries@grenadine-escape.com

www.grenadine-escape.com

Refer to Website

Refer to Website

784-529-8046/455-0969 784-457-3739

grenadinevillas@mac.com

www.grenadinevillas.com

Rates on Request Rates on Request

hazeco@vincysurf.com

www.hazecoapartments.com

See Website

See Website

784-457-8634/493-8633/4

Rates on Request Rates on Request

15 mins

784-458-3316

784-458-3889

hibiscusapts@vincysurf.com

$55 - $85

$45 - $65

10 mins

784-457-3433

784-457-3431

islandinn@vincysurf.com

$95 - $175

$85 - $150

15 mins

784-458-3932

784-458-3000

kingsville@vincysurf.com

www.kingsville-apartments.net

$145

$120

$1,400/wk (Cottage) $1,100/wk (Cottage) $950/wk (Studio) $800/wk (Studio)

20 mins

784-457-3092

784-457-3092

limehouse@bequiavilla.com

www.bequiavilla.com

20 mins

784-457-3092

784-457-3092

limehouse@bequiavilla.com

www.bequiaholiday.com

15 mins

784-458-3656

seashellsbq@vincysurf.com

www.bequiaseashells.com

$90

15 mins

784-483-0381

info@springhousebequia.com

www.springhousebequia.com

Check Website Check Website

10 mins

784-457-3148

info@sugarappleinn.com

www.sugarappleinn.com

784-458-3985

$2,000/wk (2 couples) $1,500/wk (2 couples) $2,500/wk (3 couples) $2,000/wk (3 couples)

$110

$75

$80

treehouse@vincysurf.com

www.thenestbequia.com

$ 950/wk (Nest) $1,000/wk (Treetop)

784-458-3883

tvabqsvg@vincysurf.com

www.bequia.net/villageapartments

Rates on Request Rates on Request

784-456-4777

784-456-5887

reservations@cottonhouse.net

www.cottonhouse.net

$1,280 - $4,740

$700 - $2,890

784-488-8414

784-488-8514

enquiries@fireflymustique.com

www.fireflymustique.com

$950 - $1,200

$850 - $1,100

784-488-8000

784-488-9000

villarentals@mustique.vc

www.mustique-island.com

Rates on Request Rates on Request

15 mins

784-458-8000

784-458-8885

reservations@canouan.com

www.canouan.com

$850

$665

10 mins

784-458-8044

784-458-8851

info@tamarind.us

www.tamarindbeachhotel.com

$550

$450

15 mins

784-458-8444

784-458-8944

swbinfo@gmx.net

www.saltwhistlebay.com

$480

$360

10 mins

784-485-8447

784-485-8448

info@amerindi.com

www.amerindi.com

Refer to Website

Refer to Website

2 mins

784-458-8221

784-458-8365

aycunion@vincysurf.com

www.anchorage-union.com

$ 100 (Rooms) $120 (Cottages)

$80 (Rooms) $100 (Cottages)

4 mins

784-458-8678/8878

784-458-8311

laquarium@vincysurf.com

www.grenadines-bougainvilla.com

$120

$120

3 mins

784-458-8235

784-458-8313

clifbeachhotel@vincysurf.com

www.cliftonbeachhotel.org

$138 - $186

$125 - $173

3 mins

784-485-8823

info@kingslandinghotel.com

www.kingslandinghotel.com

$83 - $127

$83 - $127

8 mins

784-526-3434/485-8400

marineviewhotel@gmail.com

Rates on Request

Rates on Request

10 mins

784-458-3667

15 mins

784-457-3026

5 mins 5 mins

$620/wk (Nest) $670/wk (Treetop)

Some hotels have peak periods within the Winter Season when rates may vary. A number of the hotels offer specials during the Summer Season - these rates are available on request.

Please check with the individual property or the SVG Hotel & Tourism Association (Tel: 784-458-4379, or visit their website at www.svghotels.com) for up-to-date information.

Advertisers Index A

A Caribbean Wedding Amerindi Anchorage Yacht Club, The At Basil’s

87 136 136, 137 45

B

Barefoot Yacht Charters 31 Basil's Bar & Restaurant 59, 113 Basil’s Shops in Mustique 113 Beachcombers Hotel 66, 67 Beachcombers Restaurant & Bar 58 Bequia Beach Hotel 100, 101 Bequia Dive Adventures 84 Bequia Health Centre 82, 85 Bequia Mount Gay Rum Music Festival 6 Blue Tropic Café & Bagatelle 96 Bougainvilla Hotel 138 Breadfruit Recipes of SVG 50 Breezeville Apartments 62

C

C.K. Greaves Supermarkets 50, 51 Canash Beach Apartments 66 Canouan Resort 115, 117 Captain Gourmet 135 Caribbean Schooner Cruises 44, 83, 84, 113, 121 Carr, Peter 93 Chantours Caribbean Inc. 29, 30, 121 Cobblestone Inn, The 62 Cotton House Mustique 112, 113

D

Dasrat Sugrim Furniture 52-53 Dawn’s Creole Beach Café 97 De Reef Apartments 107 De Reef Beach Bar & Restaurant 82 Digicel Inside Front Cover Discoversvg.com Outside Back Cover Dive Bequia 84 Doris' Fresh Food 91 Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge 59 Duncan, Silma 93

E

Erika’s Land & Villa Agents

F

24, 135

Fantasea Tours 42, 44 Ferry Schedules 15 Firefly Plantation Hotel Bequia 100 Firefly Plantation Restaurant 97 Firefly Plantation Tasting Tours 85 Flow Wine Bar 56, 57 Frangipani Hotel, The 100, 101 Frangipani Restaurant 96 French Verandah Restaurant 56 Friendship Rose, The 44, 83, 84, 113, 121 Friendship Rose Weddings 87

144

G

Gingerbread Hotel 100 Gingerbread Restaurant 96 Gourmet Food 49, 50, 90 Grand View Beach Hotel 64 Grand View Grill 58 Grenadines Dive 121 Grenadine Escape Sales & Rentals 24, 106 Grenadine House 68 Grenadine Island Villas 18-19, 24, 87, 106 Grenadines Island Estates 131

H

Halbich, Storm HazECO Apartments HazECO Tours Hibiscus Apartments Hillside Apartments Hope Bay Estate Bequia Hotel Alexandrina

I

Indigo Dive insandoutsofsvg.com Invest SVG

J

James Apartments Jeeves Group Joyette, Robert Julie Savage Lea Jump In Taxi Service

K

Kings Inn Kingsville Apartments Knights Trading

L

L’Aquarium Restaurant L'Auberge des Grenadines Letovah Villa LIAT Airlines Lime Cottage & Lime Studio

M

Mac’s Pizzeria & Bakeshop Marine View Apartments Mariners Hotel

N

Nature’s Best Bakery Noah's Arkade

O

Oasis Art Gallery, The Oasis Spa & Wellness Centre Ocean Breeze House Ottley Hall Marina & Shipyard

The Ins & Outs of St. Vincent & The Grenadines

51 106 45 107 69 24, 108-109 62

44 9 23

69 21 52 93 85

69 101 91

138 94, 96 105 3 107

97 136 64, 65

51 92

92 45 107 28

P

Palm Island Resort Palm Villa Paradise Beach Hotel Paradise Restaurant Phoenix Apartments

R

Richview Guest House Ridgeview Terrace Apartments Rooftop Resturant & Bar Rosewood Apartment Hotel Roudette, Vonnie

128, 129 130 65 59 69

69 69 58 68 2, 52

S

SVG Air 30, Inside Back Cover SVG Hotel & Tourism Assoc.

1 SVG National Trust 35 Sail Relax Explore 5, 30, 83, 84, 121 Sam’s Taxi & Tours 45 Sapodilla Room, The 59 Sea Breeze Guest House 69 Sea Breeze Nature Tours 44 Sea Shells Apartments 107 Seasplash Apartments 66 Sky Blue Beach Apartments 69 Spring House 105 St. Vincent Distillers Ltd. 49, 50 Subway 57 Sunrise Cottage 106 Sugarapple Inn 107 Sunsail 31 Sunset Shores Beach Hotel 66, 67 Sunset Shores Restaurant 56, 57 Sunset Tours Moke & Jeep Rentals 85

T

Tamarind Beach Hotel & Yacht Club 116 Tamarind Villa 107 The Nest 107 Tranquillity Beach Apartments 69 Tribu Resorts 25, 124, 125

V

Victorine, Claude Villa Alamanda Villa Casablanca Village Apartments, The

93 105 105 107

W

Wilfred Dederer Photography 87 Wilkie’s 58 Wind and Sea 30, 138, 139

Y

Yannis Charters Young Island

136, 137 56, 62, 63