Living in Grenada: A Cultural Guide for New Grenada CBI Citizens

Vago Barseghyan

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October 4, 2025

Cultural orientation will soon be a formal requirement for applicants under Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment Programme. For those exploring the island - whether as visitors or prospective Grenada CBI citizens - understanding local history, laws, and culture will help anyone integrate more fully into Grenadian life, and now directly ties into Grenada’s CBI requirements.

Grenada offers a welcoming, safe, and affordable lifestyle within a stable democratic system. The island’s friendly communities and tax advantages also add to its appeal. It remains one of the most appealing destinations in the Caribbean.

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Grenada is a small yet culturally rich island nation in the Southern Caribbean, celebrated for its warmth - both in climate and community. Often called the “Spice Isle” for its production of nutmeg, cocoa, and mace, Grenada offers a unique blend of tropical beauty, affordability, and safety. With a stable political system, strong local identity, and growing infrastructure, it’s no surprise that the Grenada CBI programme is becoming so popular for those seeking alternative passports and residency.

As the Citizenship by Investment landscape in Grenada evolves with the Heads of Government of the OECS signing the proposed Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority Agreement, - future CBI citizens will be required to undergo cultural orientation. This guide provides an overview of life in Grenada and key things you need to know about life on the Spice Isle.

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‍Grenadian History, Identity, Culture & Values

Grenada’s history is layered with indigenous heritage, the European colonisation period, and ultimately the development of a resilient democratic nation. The island was first inhabited by the indigenous Amerindians officially called the Kalinagos. During the colonisation period, it was conquered by the Spanish, French and British at various times with the British eventually controlling the island. Despite being a British Colony for an extended period, many villages have maintained French names. Like much of the Caribbean, enslaved African people were captured and forced to work until the abolition of slavery in 1834.

Independence: On 7^th February 1974 Grenada became the first State in the Eastern Caribbean to gain Britain. It’s first Prime Minister was Sir Eric Matthew Gairy who is called the Father of Independence

Revolution: From 13^th March 1979, the Grenada revolution commenced and ended on 25^th October 1983. During the period of the revolution the literacy rate in Grenada significantly increased and numerous social reforms and policy were introduced like social security and maternity leave for women. The leader of the Grenada revolution was Maurice Bishop and after his death, the revolution collapsed during which time the US invaded and restored democracy.

Grenada is a democratic country which upholds the principles of free and fair elections. It is a member of the Commonwealth, CARICOM, the OECS and the United Nations. Understanding Grenada’s history is essential for appreciating its modern identity, culture and values.

National Motto: Ever Conscious of God, We Aspire, Build and Advance as One People
Official Language: English (with French Patois spoken in some rural areas)‍
Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic (44%), Protestant (43%), other faiths and non-religious (13%)

Community life is central to Grenadian identity, where neighbours look out for one another and local events are well-attended. Music and arts thrive - from calypso, soca, big drum, steelpan to folk dance and shakespeare mas. Cricket, football, and athletics are widely enjoyed. Grenada is also known for its low crime rate and strong sense of safety, with both locals and expats feeling secure across the island.

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Geography, Nature & Climate

Grenada’s natural beauty combines mountainous rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine coastlines.

Main Islands: Grenada (95% of population), Carriacou (4%), Petite Martinique (1%)
Capital: St. George’s, one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque harbours
Grand Anse Beach: 3 km of soft white sand and calm seas just south of the capital
Landscape: Mountains, rainforests, waterfalls like Annandale and Concord, and crater lakes like Grand Etang
Marine Life: Rich coral reefs, excellent snorkelling, and the world’s first underwater sculpture park
Climate: Average 28°C/82°F year-round. Dry season January–May, wet season June–December. Grenada is near the hurricane belt but rarely suffers direct hits.

Government, Law & Civic Life

Grenada’s political and civic systems are stable, democratic, and accessible. The country follows a British-style parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy, with both governance and civic freedoms well established.

System: Parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy
Head of State: King Charles III, represented locally by the Governor-General
Head of Government: Prime Minister, supported by Cabinet ministers
Legislature: Bicameral - House of Representatives and Senate
Legal System: Rooted in English common law‍
Elections: General elections are constitutionally due every 5 years and called at the discretion of the Prime Minister during that period.

‍Everyday Life in Grenada

Day-to-day life in Grenada is laid-back yet well-supported by reliable infrastructure, a strong sense of safety, and access to quality education and healthcare.

Healthcare: The public system is anchored by the General Hospital in St. George’s, with smaller medical centres across the island.
Utilities and Connectivity: Electricity is generally reliable, produced mainly from diesel but with growing investment in solar energy. Water is safe and treated. Broadband internet and mobile services are widely available, and the government continues to expand digital infrastructure.
Safety: Grenada is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. Strong community bonds contribute to a secure atmosphere in both towns and villages, with low levels of petty crime.
Education: Grenada is home to the prestigious St. George’s University School of Medicine (SGU), a globally recognised institution with a residency match rate of over 94%. Beyond medicine, SGU offers programs in arts, sciences, and veterinary studies. Each year, Grenadian citizens are eligible for 100 undergraduate scholarships and 22 medical school scholarships, making education highly accessible.

Economy and Taxes

Grenada’s economy is supported by tourism, agriculture, education, and construction, while its tax system offers clear advantages for both residents and international investors.

No Global Taxation: Grenada does not tax worldwide income, making it attractive for individuals engaged in international business.
Income Tax: Residents benefit from the first XCD 36,000 of their income being tax free, with progressive rates from 10% to 28%. Companies and individuals resident in Grenada do pay tax on locally earned income at 30%.
Property Tax: Ranges from 0.2% to 0.5% of the property’s assessed value.
Non-Residents: Taxed only on Grenadian-sourced income.‍
No Capital Gains or Inheritance Tax: There is no capital gains tax and no inheritance tax, an advantage for estate planning.

This straightforward tax regime is designed to be business-friendly and transparent. For global entrepreneurs, retirees, and investors, the favourable tax environment enhances not only Grenada’s reputation as a safe and stable jurisdiction but also the overall benefits of holding Grenadian citizenship and a Grenadian passport.

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Festivals, Food & Social Life

Grenada’s spirit is most visible in its cultural events and cuisine.

Spicemas Carnival (August): Parades, Jab Jab, calypso, soca and steelpan
Carriacou Maroon and String Bank Festival: African heritage celebrated with drumming, food, and dance
Petite Martinique Whitsuntide Regatta and Carriacou Regatta: Sailing and community festivities
Grenada Billfish Tournament and Sailing Festival: Showcase the island’s maritime
Saraka: honouring African heritage with food, traditional dances, drums and thanksgiving.

Food is rich with African, French, and Indian influences:

National Dish: Oil Down - breadfruit, coconut milk, turmeric, and salted meat or fish

Other Dishes: rice & peas, stewed chicken, souse, callaloo, lambie (conch), lobster, and other fresh seafood (tuna, marlin, mahi-mahi)

Drinks: Fresh juices including lime, golden apple, passionfruit, guava, mauby and sorrel; Carib beer, rum punch, and cocktails.

Read more in our article: Evolving Grenada CBI requirements: Grenada’s national dish

Grenada - Quick Facts

Population: 117,000
Capital: St. George’s
Main Islands: Grenada (348.5 km²), Carriacou (34 km²), Petite Martinique (2.37 km²)
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
Official Language: English
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (no daylight saving)
Direct Flights From: New York, Miami, Toronto, London, Atlanta (seasonal), Germany (seasonal), Charlotte (seasonal)
Student Population: 4,000+ at St. George’s University
Religions: Christianity (mostly Roman Catholic and Protestant)‍
Top Industries: Tourism, agriculture, education, construction.

Final Thoughts

Grenada is far more than a picturesque island destination; it is a nation with deep cultural roots, a vibrant history, and a welcoming community that values unity, safety, and authentic Grenada culture. With cultural orientation becoming a formal requirement for new citizens under the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Programme, understanding Grenada’s way of life has never been more important.

Cultural orientation makes citizenship more meaningful, turning legal recognition into a sense of true belonging. For newcomers, it bridges the gap between residency and participation in society. For Grenada, it preserves identity and strengthens community bonds. Together, both sides benefit - creating a shared future.

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Vago Barseghyan

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Vago Barseghyan

Antigua and Barbuda enjoys a tropical maritime climate, characterised by warm temperatures year-round, with an average of 27°C (81°F). The islands have a relatively dry season from January to April, with a wetter season from May to November. The islands have robust infrastructure and emergency systems in place to manage such events.

Originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples, the islands were colonised by the British in the 17th century. The cultural landscape is a blend of African, British, and indigenous influences. This rich history is reflected in local music, dance, and festivals, with calypso, reggae, and steelpan music being particularly popular. Cricket, a legacy of British rule, is the most popular sport, and sailing is also popular, reflecting the islands' strong maritime culture.

Antigua and Barbuda boasts 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, along with coral reefs, lagoons, and lush vegetation. The country’s landscape is primarily flat, with rolling hills and volcanic rock formations. The islands are also home to rich biodiversity, making them a haven for nature lovers.

Antigua and Barbuda have a stable democratic government based on the British parliamentary system. The country is generally regarded as having a manageable level of bureaucracy, with a reasonably straightforward process for interacting with government agencies. Retirees will find that essential services like renewing a driver’s licence, paying taxes, or obtaining necessary permits are relatively simple, although some processes can be slow due to limited resources. The government has been making strides in digitising services to reduce in-person visits and streamline processes.

Antigua and Barbuda is known for its lively events and festivals, particularly Carnival, one of the year's most anticipated events. Antigua Sailing Week is another major event, attracting sailors and spectators from around the world. These festivals are deeply rooted in the local culture and provide a vibrant social scene for retirees.

Dominica has a tropical rainforest climate, with high humidity and heavy rainfall, particularly on the windward side of the island. Temperatures are warm year-round, averaging 26°C (79°F), with cooler conditions in themountainous interior. The island’s lush greenery is a result of its abundantrainfall.

Dominica's culture is a vibrant mix of indigenous Kalinago heritage, African traditions, and European colonial influences, particularly French and British. The island was originally settled by the Kalinago people, and their influence is still present today, especially in the Kalinago Territory. African traditions have also left a profound mark, particularly in the island’s music, dance, and festivals. Dominica’s outdoor sports are heavily influenced by its rugged terrain, with hiking and diving being popular among locals and expatriates alike, although there is of course cricket for those with more sedentary dispositions.

Known as the "NatureIsland," Dominica is characterised by its rugged terrain, rainforests ,waterfalls, and geothermal activity. The island is home to the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park, as well as numerous rivers and lakes. Dominica’s unspoiled natural beauty is a major draw for retirees who appreciate ecotourism and outdoor adventures.

Dominica’s government operates under a parliamentary democracy, with a legal system rooted in English common law. While the country’s bureaucracy is smaller and more accessible, some processes can be slow, particularly in rural areas. However, the government is generally cooperative and accommodating, particularly for expatriates. It’s advisable to have local assistance or a legal advisor to navigate more complex processes, such as property transactions or dealing with land registries.

Dominica hosts several unique cultural events, including the World Creole Music Festival and Carnival. The island’s festivals are deeply connected to its Creole heritage, offering retirees a chance to immerse themselves in local traditions and music. Dominica’s Independence celebrations also feature traditional dances, music, and cuisine.

Grenada has a tropical climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, averaging around 28°C (82°F). The dry season runs from January to May, while the wet season is from June to December. Although Grenada is located on the southern edge of the hurricane belt and is less impacted the another Caribbean islands, it is not immune to these storms as has been seen recently with Hurricane Beryl. The island has since improved its hurricane preparedness and infrastructure resilience and the value of these improvements has led to greater preparedness for such events.

The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples before being colonised by Europeans. Grenadian culture is characterised by a strong sense of community, vibrant music, and dance traditions, such as calypso and soca. French influence on the island is evident in its place names and culinary traditions. Cricket and football are the most popular sports, and sailing and water sports are also widely enjoyed.

Known as the "SpiceIsle," Grenada is famous for its aromatic plantations, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. The island’s volcanic origin provides a diverse landscape of mountains, rainforests, and coastal areas. Grenada’s natural beauty is complemented by its extensive marine life, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving.

Grenada also follows a British-style parliamentary democracy. The country’s bureaucracy is relatively user-friendly, with many government processes being straightforward and accessible. Retirees generally find it easy to interact with government departments for routine tasks such as registering a vehicle, renewing licences, or paying taxes.

Grenada’s Spicemas Carnival is the island’s most significant cultural event, celebrated with colourful parades, music, and dance. The island also hosts the Grenada Sailing Festival and the Pure Grenada Music Festival, both of which attract international visitors. These events provide a lively social calendar for retirees.

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 24°C (75°F) and 31°C (88°F) throughout the year. The islands have a dry season from December to April and a wet season from May to November. Located within the hurricane belt, Saint Kitts and Nevis is vulnerable to hurricanes, especially between June and November, but the islands have strong building codes and disaster response plans in place to reduce the impact of the senatural events.

The cultural heritage of Saint Kitts and Nevis is shaped by its history of indigenous Carib and Arawak inhabitants and European colonisation. Saint Kitts was the first Caribbean island to be colonised by the British, and Nevis has a rich history as a major sugar producer. The islands' cultural roots are a blend of African, British, and French influences, reflected in the local cuisine, music, and festivals. Cricket and football are deeply ingrained in the local culture and, along with sailing and hiking, are integral to the islands' cultural life.

The twin islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis are known for their volcanic mountains, rainforests, and beaches. The islands are home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Brimstone Hill Fortress and offer stunning views from places like Mount Liamuiga. The islands’ natural beauty is one of their strongest appeals to retirees.

Saint Kitts and Nevis operates under a stable parliamentary democracy, with governance structures similar to those of other Commonwealth countries. The islands have a relatively low level of bureaucracy, and dealing with the government on a day-to-day basis is generally straightforward. Most routine administrative tasks, such as obtaining permits, paying taxes, or registering property, are manageable, although some processes can take longer than expected due to limited staffing. The government is trying to modernise its operations, including digitising more services, which should help reduce delays and improve overall efficiency.

The islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis host several vibrant festivals, including Carnival, the Saint Kitts Music Festival, and Culturama, which is unique to Nevis. These events celebrate local culture, music, and heritage, offering retirees plenty of opportunities to engage with the community and enjoy local traditions.

Saint Lucia enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The dry season extends from December to May, while the wet season is from June to November. Saint Lucia is situated near the edge of the hurricane belt, making it prone to hurricanes and tropical storms but less so than those further north. The government has invested in improving hurricane preparedness and infrastructure resilience to protect the island from future storms better.

Saint Lucia's culture is a unique blend of African, French, and British influences, reflecting its complex history of colonisation. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and later the Carib people, before being contested by the French and British for centuries. The French influence is particularly strong in the island's Creole language, cuisine, and Catholic traditions, while British colonial rule has left its mark on the legal system and sports, particularly cricket. The island’s dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Pitons, provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor sports like hiking and diving, which are popular among locals and retirees alike.

Saint Lucia is famous for its dramatic Pitons, volcanic peaks that rise sharply from the sea. The island’s landscape includes rainforests, beaches, andSulphur Springs, the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano. Saint Lucia’s natural beauty is among the most striking in the Caribbean, attracting retirees who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views.

Saint Lucia’s government is a parliamentary democracy, and the country has a reputation for a relatively efficient bureaucracy compared to other Caribbean nations. For retirees, dealing with the government is typically hassle-free for most day-to-day tasks like renewing a driver’s licence, paying taxes, or obtaining residency permits. Saint Lucia has been proactive in improving its e-government services, allowing for easier access to information and quicker processing of certain requests online.

Saint Lucia is famous for its Jazz and Arts Festival, which attracts international artists and music lovers. The island’s Carnival is another major event, featuring parades, music, and dancing. Additionally, the La Rose and La Marguerite festivals celebrate the island’s unique cultural heritage, offering retirees a rich cultural experience.

Living in Grenada: A Cultural Guide for New Grenada CBI Citizens

‍Grenadian History, Identity, Culture & Values

Geography, Nature & Climate

Government, Law & Civic Life

‍Everyday Life in Grenada

Economy and Taxes

Festivals, Food & Social Life

Grenada - Quick Facts

Final Thoughts

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