Although Grenada is still largely known as the turf on which the US military made one of its more blustery stands in the name of democracy in the 1980s, savvy Caribbean travelers know Grenada as a colorful, robust travel destination that's wonderfully rough around the edges. Dubbed the 'Spice Island' because of its impressive production of nutmeg, mace, cinnamon, ginger and cloves, it has a rugged mountainous interior of rainforests and waterfalls and an indented coastline with protected bays and beaches. Its capital, St George's, has one of the prettiest harbor settings in the Caribbean.

Tourist infrastructure is still generally small-scale and locally owned, offering a good balance between comfort and price, making Grenada a great getaway for those travelers wanting to avoid the Caribbean resort experience. The secret to a successful visit to Grenada is to mix up the beach (in)activity with getting out and about in the island's interior with a good pair of hiking boots.