When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Grenada?
May and June are the best and cheapest months to fly, at the tail end of the high-season. Some travellers choose August to experience the annual carnival, but the weather will be wetter and flights will rise in price. For the best weather, January through April is ideal, as the island is at its driest and least humid- but you will pay more to travel during this time.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Grenada?
If travelling for the August carnival, it is best to book as early as possible. Cheap rates are available in September and October, but as this is hurricane season, some hotels close during this period. Booking return flights to Grenada at least two months in advance for May-June will result in the best deals, and occasionally, you can find last-minute flight deals for peak season on Netflights.
Flying to Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND)
Seven miles from the capital city of St George’s, the Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) lies on the most southwestern point of the island of Grenada. The airport, formerly known as Point Salines International Airport, was renamed in 2009 after former Prime Minister Maurice Bishop, who initiated its construction after he took office in 1979.
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer regular flights to GND from London Gatwick Airport, London Heathrow Airport and Manchester Airport, however all routes from the U.K. are indirect. Stops en route include other Caribbean islands, including Bermuda and Antigua, and often include a change of airline. American Airlines offers indirect flights from London Heathrow with layovers in cities such as Los Angeles and Miami.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
Maurice Bishop International Airport is the main airport in Grenada. It has only one terminal, with five boarding gates and two departure lounges. There is also an executive lounge. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the airport, and travellers will find charging stations for phones and laptops in the departure lounge. The Grenada Co-Operative Bank has an ATM in the arrival hall and currency exchange counters in both the departure lounge and the arrival hall. Post-boxes are available landside. There is also a wide variety of duty-free shops and restaurants and cafes offering food and drink.
Getting to the City from Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND)
Public transport, although available elsewhere on the island, doesn’t run consistently from the airport, so most visitors choose to take a taxi to get into Saint George’s or any other island location. Official taxis wait by the exit of the Airport Terminal and taxi fares to all destinations on the island are set by the government, but make sure to confirm the price (and whether it’s in East Caribbean or US dollars) with the driver before leaving. Visitors can also choose to hire cars from a number of rental companies, also located at the exit of the arrivals hall. Either way, trips to the centre of Saint George’s will take around 20-30 minutes.
Why Visit Grenada?
Known as the Spice Island, Grenada offers idyllic white-sand beaches, lush green hills and rainforests, and its namesake spice plantations that tantalise the senses. Aromas of nutmeg – for which the island is the second-largest producer on earth – fill the air, alongside those of cinnamon, ginger and clove. Visitors can enjoy pristine – and sometimes empty – beaches, or head out to sea for sailing and diving trips to visit wrecks and reefs.
Modern day culture is influenced by Grenada’s African, Caribbean and East Indian ancestry, along with the former colonisation by the French and British. This fusion is reflected in the capital city of St George’s. Each year on February 7, the island nation celebrates its independence with parades, festivals, street concerts, and formal memorial ceremonies. In the second week of August, the country holds an annual carnival with masqueraders, steel bands and DJs playing special carnival melodies. No matter what time of year you visit, you are sure to experience the famous Caribbean charm and lifestyle of this warm and cosy island.
Grenada Visa & Currency Info
Grenada uses the East Caribbean Dollar (EC$) just like the other islands belonging to the Organisation of the Eastern Caribbean States, such as Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica and St Lucia. US dollars are also accepted in Grenada, but always be clear whether the price you are quoted is in EC or US dollars before you pay. ATMs are widely available. British citizens do not need a visa to visit this tropical island- just make sure your passport is valid for six months from your date of entry.
