Saint Vincent and The Grenadines

Overview

This archipelago certainly has the scope for entertaining all who visit for a great deal of time. The main reason for this is the extensive opportunity for diving. Most of the islands has something to offer those who submerge themselves in the warm waters. Whether it is a giant coral wall, a selection of marine life that is unlikely to fail to impress or apparently hanging gardens. On land, the blacksand beach at Mount Wynne, the salt pond at Owia and Trinity Falls all offer different locations for swimming. The Falls at Baleine, Bat cave, Botanical Gardens and whale or dolphin watching are just some of the attractions on St. Vincent.

Its capital, Kingstown has a particularly British feel with a cricket team, Methodist Church and Montreal gardens. However, it is the La Soufrière volcano often comes close to eclipsing the many things to do around the islands. The rainforests and bamboo groves are just part of the wonders that make up this natural giant. Once the top has been accessed it is possible to descend into the water of the mineral mud bath. The last eruption was relatively recent, which is why it is of such interest to scientists. There is also a collection of medical items at the Doctor Cecil Cyrus museum and Forts Charlotte and Duvernette to explore if the excitement of the volcano proves too much.

History

Disputed between France and the United Kingdom in the 18th century, Saint Vincent was ceded to the latter in 1783. Autonomy was granted in 1969 and independence in 1979.Saint Vincent and the Grenadines became a British colony in the early 1600's and remained so until independence in 1979. It became a parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth of Nations. A Prime Minister leads the party with the most number of seats in the Parliament. Queen Elizabeth II remains head of state represented by the Governor General.