St. Vincent & the Grenadines: Culture & History

St. Vincent is a volcanic island, which has about thirty other little islands closely around it. These main islands around it are called The Grenadines of which Bequia, Mustique, Tobago Cays, Union Island, Petit St. Vincent, Canouan, Mayreau, Pigeon and Palm Islands are the best known among them. It is indeed relieving to get away from the main island, St. Vincent to become enveloped into the calm serenity of these islands. Vincentians are fun loving and easy-going people and their lifestyle is very relaxed. The capital's market place is bustling with people from all walks of life. Food is in plenty supply there especially fish and fresh fruits. There is a fruit called Passion Fruit that produces an excellent, exquisite taste. Handicrafts and all varieties of straw-made items and souvenirs can be brought at a number of gift shops.

The Carib Indians were the earliest settler there. Evidence of this can be seen as you walk through a nature trail through the Bacament Valley to enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest. The island has a natural beauty and this is seen when visiting the Trinity Falls. Evidence of the Carib's presence can be seen in carvings on rocks at Layou.

Volcanic eruptions have deposited ash that acts like a superb fertilizer, thus exhibiting a riot of tropical vegetation on the island. St. Vincent because of its mountains and Fort Charlotte was one of the last islands in the Caribbean to be colonialized by the Europeans. The Carib Indians put up a valiant fight to maintain their independence, before finally succumbing.