Saturday, October 22, 2011

Fort George

Ft. George lays on top of a hill found in the busy city of St. George's. It is surrounded by 360 degrees of breath taking views including a harbor, market, and Grenadian life.  Whether you're looking for a history lesson on Grenada and power or simply want to check out a nice view, Ft. George is the place to go.  Nearby, you'll find delicious local food, a spice market, shopping center, and more.

The first time I visited Ft. George, I couldn't believe the view-just magnificent.  It was unlike any other scene I've witnessed in the past.  A wide array of houses of different colors and textures were piled on top of one another in a non-distinct pattern.  Alongside- a body of water, fruit stands, boats filled with fisherman, and people selling bootleg DVDs.   

Ft. George is only one among a long list of sights to see in St. George's.  I also often visit St. George's to hang out with friends, eat, and enjoy watching and being part of Grenadian life.  For the most part, everyone is friendly and helpful.

where Maurice Bishop was contained
Helpful Information:
*On busy days- entrance fee $5EC
*There is a little hike up a steep hill to get to the summit. Bring a water bottle to star hydrated.  Also, don't forget to wear sunscreen.
*Be aware of the unofficial tour guides- they can be persistent.  Kindly tell them you want to be alone and they will leave.
*It's normal for vendors to seek your business.
*All Businesses are typically open early morning and close around 5pm. Sundays most businesses are closed.

Quick Facts:
  • Built from 1706-1710
  • Initially named Fort Royal and later renamed Fort George in 1763, after King George III  after the British took over the island
  • Currently houses the Royal Grenada Police Force (though some sections are open to the public)
  • Maurice Bishop, a revolutionary, was put under house arrest and executed (1983) at Ft. George by Bernard Coard, a member within his own party who demanded for Bishop to step down from his position as Prime Minister.  Bishop along with seven others were executed by a army firing squad.
  • Was at one point in time at the center of St. George's until it expanded out

Getting there:
From SGU, take the Grand Anse Bus and stop at Texaco.  Walk up around the corner towards IGA to the local bus stop. Take Raggae bus #1, St. George's to the last stop. $2.50EC/$3EC during holidays.
Ask a local on the street to point you in the direction of Ft. George.  There is access from next to the exit to the Sendall tunnel via steps, or the main road which continues on to the General Hospital.

Or..  from the last stop (bus terminal) facing away from it.  turn right (towards United grocery store).  walk pass bootleg DVDs.  Turn left on the same street that Digicel is on.  Walk up the steep hill (very steep).  at the end of the steep hill, turn right towards the church.  Ft. George is right next to the church and past the police station.
For more pictures of St. George's, Please visit my Flickr album HERE.

4 comments:

  1. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your blog. You're one of the only ones who shows such descriptions of how to do things and what to expect. Thank you!

    I'm a new SO, and am kind of trying to find my way.. :)

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    Replies
    1. Thanks so much Tammy! I'm so glad that I could be of help. Welcome to the island. I hope that we get to meet each other someday.

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  2. I have to agree. Love your info. I am traveling to Grenada on Jan 1 2014 and not finding much info with more specific details. One thing I am trying to find out about is the coffee. I love my coffee, and a coffee snob. Must have cream. Is cream or half-and-half available at a grocery? Where? I will be staying at the Flamboyant and diving with Dive Grenada.

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    Replies
    1. Hello Michelle,

      Thanks for dropping by. I have no doubt that you'll love scuba diving in Grenada. It's so amazing down there... words truly are not enough. You, amongst the majority of SGU med students get by on their coffee... and of course, Grenada made sure to supply them with all of their essentials, including cream. You can find plenty of coffee and cream at the island's main grocery store, IGA, which happens to be within walking distance from the Flamboyant. You just walk down the hill towards the main street ~10-15min walk and it will be right next the soccer field and lifeguard tower.
      Hours:
      Monday – Thursday 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
      Friday – Saturday 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
      Sunday – 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

      You can also travel to a coffee shop near the SGU campus (prices in EC) called Mocha Spoke. It's located in True Blue and you would take a taxi there ~5-10min.

      Menu:
      http://grenadaguide.blogspot.com/2012/10/mocha-spoke-coffee-shop-menu-grenada.html

      You can also call my preferred Taxi guy, Phillip for a ride.
      http://grenadaguide.blogspot.com/2013/04/phillip-my-favorite-taxi-guy-in-all.html

      Good luck and have fun in Grenada.

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