The Grenadines pick up where Grenada leaves off and stretch northwards till they hit Saint Vincent. They are a collection of 30 islands, only a dozen of which are inhabited. Most are blessed with perfect Caribbean beaches and diving waters and many of the islands also afford great windsurfing conditions.
Saint Vincent is the cultural hub of the islands, where most of the population live. Kingstown, along its southwestern shore, is the country's capital, a bubbly cultural affair marked by a decidedly relaxing West Indies atmosphere. The island affords a number of great hikes, most notable of which is the journey up the La Soufriére volcano, a tall active volcano as majestic as it is volatile.
Cruises are a great way of seeing the Grenadines and Saint Vincent. Budget travellers will have to pick their islands wisely, since some are geared almost exclusively to the rich and famous.
