The Delightful Reason One Sun-Soaked, Breathtaking Caribbean Island Always Smells Like Cookies

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, lies the beautiful island of Grenada. A tropical paradise with stunning beaches, lush green rainforests, and charming seaside villages, Grenada is a wonderful choice for travelers who haven't explored the Caribbean yet and can't choose between its islands. Before you visit the Caribbean islands, make sure you're familiar with these travel hacks. 

Nicknamed "Spice Isle," the island is home to a variety of aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger that fill the air with a fragrance almost like the smell of freshly baked cookies. The natural scent is an everyday experience that wafts through the markets, spice farms, and even through the streets of the capital city, St. George's. Whether exploring its spice farms or enjoying the breathtaking scenery from beaches to forests, a trip to Grenada is a wonderful visit for families and solo travelers alike.

Arriving in Grenada via Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) is quite easy, as flights from major cities like New York, Miami, London and Toronto fly in. The airport is just outside Grenada's capital city, St George's, which is also a popular port for cruise ships, making Grenada a common stop for those exploring the Caribbean by sea. If you're wondering where to stay, accommodation options on the island are plenty, from luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses. Either way, expect warm hospitality in Grenada and an unforgettable trip in the heart of the Caribbean.

Grenada's aroma comes from its rich spice industry, particularly nutmeg and cinnamon. Nutmeg is dried and cracked open releasing its signature, earthy scent, and the cinnamon comes from the cinnamon tree bark, which when harvested, fills the air with its warmth.

While visiting, a visit to the Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station is a must to learn about how Grenada's most famous spices are processed and prepared for export. This is one of the unique experiences you can only have in the Caribbean. 

The best time to visit Grenada depends on what you're seeking during your travels. For those after a seaside holiday and outdoor adventures, October to June is the dry season – a perfect time to enjoy the sunny weather and warm breeze of Grenada. During this time, it is possible to relax at the stunning beaches or explore the rainforest. However, during the rainy season from June to November, Grenada has fewer tourists and accommodation prices are substantially lower. Just don't forget to bring weatherproof gear such as this Opret Lightweight Raincoat! Be sure to pack light clothing, as Grenada's tropical climate can be warm and humid. And most importantly, don't forget to bring sunscreen and an insect repellent such as these Eezysun SPF 50 Sunscreen and Insect Repellent Snap Packs for your own protection.

If you're looking to explore the city, there's so many things that can be done in Grenada. For chocolate lovers, Belmont Estate is a cocoa plantation offering a wonderful bean-to-bar chocolate tour that is not to be missed. Guests can experience the touch, taste, scents, sights, and sounds as they become involved in the process of chocolate-making. For water sports or a relaxing day by the sea, Grand Anse Beach is one of Grenada's famous sandy white beaches that will help you recharge and is one of the best beaches to visit in the Caribbean.

Or you can take a dip in the Annandale Falls — a stunning waterfall — which is perfect for swimming and makes for unbelievable photography backdrops. Visitors can also discover the island history at Fort George and learn about local spices at St. George's Market Square, a vibrant marketplace where locals sell fresh spices, tropical fruits, and handmade crafts. Last but not least, don't miss out the opportunity to experience a walk through St. George's and its brightly colored houses.

The island is famous for a dish called Oil Down, a thick, one-pot stew of vegetables, meat or fish, coconut milk, and of course spices among other ingredients which is an absolute must-try. Whatever you decide to do, you'll definitely enjoy your stay.