Welcome to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 😊

Quick Facts About Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Money and Finances

The currency used in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). Coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, and 25 cents, as well as 1 dollar. Banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 dollars.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, but they may not be as widespread as in other countries. It's a good idea to bring cash with you when traveling to ensure you can access funds.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are generally accepted in tourist areas and larger establishments throughout Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, though it's still a good idea to have some cash on hand. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, with AMEX being less commonly accepted.

Internet and Phones

In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the average internet speed for uploads and downloads is relatively slow, with an average download speed of 3.61 Mbps. There are currently no reported government interferences in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The two major telco companies in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are Digicel and Flow. The average cost of a mobile phone plan in this country varies depending on the plan and the provider. There are no known sim compatibility issues in the country.

Dialling to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

To call Saint Vincent and the Grenadines from another country, dial +1 (784) followed by the local phone number. The area code used when dialling within the country is (784).

Transport Around Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Air Travel

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has one international airport, the Argyle International Airport located in the southern part of St. Vincent. There are also a number of small regional airports scattered throughout the island chain.

Train Travel

There is no inter-city train network in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no metro or local train network in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Buses

There is a bus network on the island of St. Vincent, with fares ranging from $1 to $2.50 depending on the distance. Journey times vary depending on the route and traffic.

Rideshare

There are no rideshare companies operating in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Driving by Car

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The speed limit is generally 40 mph on the main roads and 20 mph in towns. Roads can be narrow and winding, and driving can be challenging in some areas due to steep inclines and poor road conditions.

Local Customs

In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, tipping is not very common, but it is appreciated in the service industry. Locals often greet each other with a handshake or a hug, and may address each other with honorific titles such as 'Mister' or 'Miss'. It is considered polite to ask about someone's family and well-being before getting down to business. When speaking to strangers, it is important to be polite and respectful, as the culture values good manners. Men and women generally address each other with the same level of formality and respect.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a public healthcare system that is free for its citizens, but may not meet the standards of private healthcare facilities. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance for emergency medical care. A visit to a doctor may cost approximately $50-100 USD.

COVID Situation

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has had relatively low rates of COVID-19 cases and deaths. The government has implemented strict measures, including mandatory quarantine for all travelers and nationwide curfews, to prevent the spread of the virus.

Common Health Risks

The main health risks in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus, which are spread by mosquitoes. Travelers are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites and to use mosquito nets and repellent. There is also a risk of food and waterborne illnesses, such as typhoid fever and hepatitis A. Travelers should ensure that they are up to date on their vaccinations and avoid street food and untreated water.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

The legal drinking age in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is 18 years old. Drinking alcohol in public is prohibited, and driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use, including cannabis, is illegal in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Possession, trafficking, and consumption of drugs can lead to severe punishments.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital sex is legal in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. However, the country maintains conservative views on sexual activity outside of marriage.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

The law criminalizes consensual same-sex sexual activity with penalties ranging from imprisonment of 10 years to life. Same-sex marriage is not recognized in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Firearms / Guns

The use and possession of firearms in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is strictly regulated by law. It is illegal to carry a firearm without a license, and violations are met with severe punishments.