Catherine Middleton and Prince William`s wedding

Catherine Middleton and Prince William`s wedding

Two tiny, softly-spoken words cut the pin-drop silence of a dumbstruck Westminster Abbey and sent cheers ringing from Whitehall to Bucklebury to Papua New Guinea: ‘I will.’

And with that, Catherine Middleton went from ‘Miss’ to future Queen Consort of 16 nations spanning nearly seven billion acres and a large part of the Earth’s surface.
At her side was the young man with, perhaps, a greater burden of expectation than anyone alive. And now, he no longer carries it alone.
With his own no-nonsense ‘I will’, Prince William opened a new royal epoch, happily reuniting the Monarchy with those powerful memories of his late mother, all of it in front of half the planet.
Prior to this moment, the most-watched event in British history – perhaps in world history – had been her funeral here 14 years before. How many billions were watching now over supper in Sydney or breakfast in Ottawa; how many eyes prickling, throats tightening as that bravest of adolescent mourners now returned as the happiest man in the land?
The sense of a turning tide was as inescapable as Low Water on the Anglesey shoreline.

In the annals of our 1000-year-old Monarchy, this was a very good day. In the annals of the House of Windsor (created: 1917), it was a very great one.
Now that the mystery of the bride’s wedding dress designer has been solved, speculation is focused on where the royal couple will spend their honeymoon, due to start today.
Sources have privately confirmed the obvious: William and Kate will holiday ‘somewhere hot and sunny’ where they can ‘relax completely and privately’ for two weeks.
Mustique is the odds-on favourite for their romantic getaway. Kate’s family visit the private Caribbean island regularly, and she and William have spent several romantic breaks snorkelling, jetskiing and sunning themselves there.
Another favoured destination is a nostalgic but relatively public sight-seeing tour of Jordan, where Kate lived as a toddler. King Abdullah II is rumoured to have offered the use of his lavish private summer palace in the Red Sea resort of Aqaba.

But a brief sojourn at a UK destination has not been ruled out. A few days in Balmoral, Scotland, would follow in the footsteps of William’s father, who spent both his honeymoons there.
Another mooted destination is Kenya, where William proposed. He has often said his heart is in Africa and he also spent his gap year in Kenya. Tanzania, the Seychelles, Australia, or a cruise have also been suggested as likely choices.
The Royal Family has acquired a new recruit capable of great grace and poise under the most extreme pressure imaginable. What’s a garden party – or even a State Opening – after that 318ft walk to the Abbey altar?
What is a plaque-unveiling or a state visit after getting ‘William Arthur Philip Louis’ crystal clear, unquavering and in the right order?

Prince William, likewise, showed supreme unflappability as he gently fought with an obstreperous band of Welsh gold, as he proudly steered his future Queen into the daylight before a dazzled world already running out of superlatives.
Lip-reading viewers may have spotted what happened next. ‘Are you happy?’ asked the new Duchess of Cambridge as they climbed into the State Landau. ‘It was amazing, amazing,’ replied the Duke. ‘I am so proud you’re my wife.’
The most striking aspect of the whole occasion was the simplest of the lot: the sight of two people so confident and comfortable with each other that you can already hear them finishing each other’s sentences. They were even doing it on the Palace balcony. ‘Are you ready?’ asked Prince William. ‘Okay, let’s …’ She finished that one with a kiss.

Westminster Abbey began the day with the flavour of a rather grand country wedding – lots of intergalactic hats, handsome chaps in uniform and exuberant flowers, all capped by several maples and hornbeams from the Highgrove garden. Trees in the Abbey? ‘Unheard of’, said one orderly. Yet also inspired.
Guests gaily tested the patience of the Abbey ushers as they kept leaping out of their seats to ‘Mwa-Mwa’ or shake hands with an old chum from the Army or St Andrews or a royal charity.
At one point, there was aisle gridlock. I spotted Earl Spencer trying to lead a trio of young Spencer belles through a yacking standstill, his path blocked by people shaking hands with the film director, Guy Ritchie, and the Lord Great Chamberlain, the Marquess of Cholmondeley. Progressing through the throng beneath a blue 45-degree Philip Treacy hat was It-girl and royal chum, Tara Palmer-Tomkinson, escorted by her novelist sister, Santa, and historian brother-in-law, Simon Sebag-Montefiore.
Morning coats were the general order of the day, regardless of an invitation offering a ‘lounge suit’ option. The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, declared that he had rented his from Moss Bros – suggesting that he must have lost or outgrown the tails he wore for five years at Eton.

David Beckham had embellished his traditional wedding kit with a wing-collared shirt and his OBE, despite the dress code specifically advising against decorations for civilian guests. He was wearing it on the wrong side, too. Few seemed to notice. All eyes were on Mrs Beckham, not his gong.
I found myself seated deep in Middleton country, just behind Michael Middleton’s proud cousin, Cambridge geo-physicist, Penny Barton. She was delighted by news of the new Dukedom of Cambridge. ‘Maybe, William will be the next Chancellor of Cambridge University,’ she suggested. Prince Philip’s retirement does, indeed, create a vacancy.

Less relaxed were the official guests, all those ambassadors and Governors-General and Cabinet Ministers knowing that they must be on best behaviour lest a camera spot an injudicious yawn.
I spotted a very chuffed-looking Ralph Gonsalves, prime minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, one of the Queen’s 16 realms (the one which includes royal Mustique). Could this be the same ‘Comrade Ralph’ who staged a referendum on abolishing the Monarchy just 18 months ago? It was just as well he lost the vote, then, or he would not have had the call-up yesterday.

For pictures see URL below.

http://www.zimbabwemetro.com/entertainment/catherine-middleton-and-prince-williams-wedding/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=catherine-middleton-and-prince-williams-wedding

PM Talks With Former PM

TAIPEI, Taiwan: - Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) says he does not need permission from anyone to collaborate with his predecessor, Sir James Mitchell of the main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP).

Gonsalves and Sir James recently discussed cocoa cultivation in SVG. Sir James had, on behalf of the NDP, proposed cocoa cultivation during the campaign for the general elections last December.

The gentlemen have also “exchanged letters” about the Interaction Council’s work on a Declaration on Human Responsibilities to be dealt with at the United Nations.

NDP president and leader of the Opposition Arnhim Eustace said that Sir James had not informed him or the NDP — which Sir James founded in 1975 — of his discussions with Gonsalves.

Eustace, however, said that he welcomes any benefit to SVG that comes from the collaboration between Gonsalves and Sir James.

Gonsalves noted to Vincentians in Taiwan that together he and Sir James have been Prime Minster of SVG for 26 since it gained independence in 1979.

Gonsalves, who came to office in 2001, said that only he and Sir James know what it is truly like to be prime minister.
Eustace was prime minister for five months before his party lost the March 2001 general elections after almost 17 years in office.

“I tell you, you do not understand the office of prime minister if you are prime minister for five months,” Gonsalves said last week.

“I don’t understand where this kind of vanity comes from. I certainly don’t require permission from anybody to talk to Sir James and I don’t think he requires permission from anybody to talk to me. I call up Mr. Eustace and talk to him. He is Leader of the Opposition. I don’t need permission from anyone,” Gonsalves added.

“The word prime before minister means something you know. … I am not being arrogant … but, as a leader, I must have room, some scope to manoeuvre and to talk to people I want to talk to. That’s why you are called leader,” he further said.

Gonsalves said that while Sir James, an agronomist, had raised the issue of cocoa during the elections the NDP did not include the proposal in its manifesto.

“It came as an afterthought because Sir James raised it on the platform and it sounded interested and they caught on to it,” he said.

Gonsalves said that he had discussed cocoa production with Hotel Chocolate 18 months ago but the company was interested first “in dealing with St. Lucia”.

After the elections Sir James’ daughter spoke to Gonsalves and organised a meeting with Amajaro, a cocoa company with which Gonsalves was scheduled to meet during a trip to London this week.

“Amajaro has its own arrangements and how it does its work and so forth. But, we have to organise our matters in relations to cocoa properly – a cocoa association and all the rest of it,” Gonsalves said.

“Now, it says something about the fragility of the NDP leadership and their own sense of their own weakness that Sir James and I having conversations about matters that make them very skittish,” Gonsalves said, adding that he was not interested in the party’s “internal problems”.

He said he was willing to work together with Sir James to the benefit of SVG, adding, “I don’t know what is going to happen on the cocoa project because we don’t know what the feasibility study will bring.”

The ULP thinks that cocoa could attract several hundred farmers but will not transform agriculture in the way the way that banana did.

“[C]ocoa is one of a number of commodities which they need to look at and have been looking at for the purposes of broadening the base of a diversified agriculture,” Gonsalves said.

http://kentonxtchance.wordpress.com/2011/04/28/pm-gonsalves-defends-talks-with-former-pm-sir-james/

People, early

A book on precolonial and colonial people, probably written as a lower form textbook in Dominica, where Lennox Honychurch is a lot better known than he is on St. Vincent and the Grenadines. But it was on sale at Reliance Stationary which I walked past after visiting the bank.

Breadfruit

Breadfruit, or at least the sucker of the breadfruit tree brought to the Botanical Garden by the famous Capt. Bligh, was what tipped the scale and brought us to St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the first place. I love fried breadfruit with soft-yolked fried eggs; they are better than potatoes. But the Hotel and Tourism Association wanted to show that you could do a lot more with breadfruit these days.

Sometimes you can get locally produced peeled and sliced breadfruit frozen in plastic bags which is a lot less trouble.

Which is pretty fancy for stuff that was brought here to provide cheap food for slaves.

GHS Update

The GHS Centenary Magazine will be launched at the tea on Sunday, May 1, 2011,
and not on May 4, 2011, as stated in the attachment.
The magazine will be sold for EC$20 at the tea and thereafter,
and proceeds will go directly to the school.

Talent Extravaganza, "Through the Years."
Date:May 4, 2011
Time:7:30 p.m.
Place:Faith Temple Church, New Montrose
Cost: $25.00
On show night tickets can be purchased at the New Montrose Hotel.

___
Call-in GHS centennial program on Sunday 5/1/11
Please listen and call in :
FYI. There will be a call-in GHS centennial program on Sunday 5/1/11, from 11:00 a.m. to
1:00 p.m. on several of the radio stations in SVG...NBC Radio, WE-FM etc.
Tune in on-line at:
http://tunein.com/radio/Saint-Vincent-The-Grenadines-r100404
On the panel-Michele Beache, Joye Browne, Cheryl Phills King
Host: Theresa Daniel
Please pass on this information. Thanks.
___

GHS CENTENNIAL LECTURE #13
Please attend:
Topic:Education Excellence for Today’s Development Challenges
Date: Thursday, May 5, 2011.
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Place: Methodist Church Hall, Kingstown.
Speaker: Dr. Joyce Providence Toney
Host: Cheryl Phills King
Dedicated to: Former Head-Mistress, Norma Ince Keizer

For those in the diaspora the lecture will be carried live on NBC-Radio.
http://tunein.com/radio/Saint-Vincent-The-Grenadines-r100404
Click on nbc.
or
http://www.nbcsvg.com
Scroll down and at right click on "Listen NBC Radio Live."

For a link to Caribbean radio stations:
http://bajan.rules.it/

In SVG:
It is also scheduled to be telecast live on SVG-TV.

INVITATION:

You are invited to make a monetary contribution to GHS.
(1) The request of EC$100 for the production of the magazine
is on-going.
(2) Please assist in marking the Centenary Legacy of the school.
Funds will be used to assist in improving the area of Science.

For tickets, making contributions etc. and/or any other info:
Girls' High School Contact info:
The St. Vincent Girls' High School (GHS)  is located at:
Murray Road, Kingstown, St Vincent & The Grenadines.
Mailing address is: -
St. Vincent Girls' High School
P.O. Box 1057
Kingstown
St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Tel: - +1-784-456-1307
Fax: - +1-784-451-2762
email: svghs@hotmail.com
Please check the GHS website:
http://svghs.com

Tuning in at dawn to pomp and circumstance

By Lee Ballantyne

BARRIE - I hadn't planned to tune in to the mislabelled “wedding of the century” on Friday, but I have changed my mind.

As I will be up anyway, dressed in my ratty robe, sipping a coffee, I might just as well turn on the telly and watch a bit of the pomp and circumstance as Prince William and Kate Middleton get hitched.

My bedmate declined my invitation to wake her early so she could share in the experience. I think her disdain for anything monarchist may be rooted in her pride of French ancestor Louis Hébert, an apothecary who was the first settler in Quebec in 1617.

My ancestors didn't show up for another 200 years or so, and since our origins are from Celts defending the highlands of Scotland, we tend to have a lot of reasons for keeping a wary eye on the royals.

I also have a selfish reason for watching the nuptials. I'm hoping to get a glimpse of an extremely distant cousin.

You may be surprised to learn there will be a Ballantyne among the wedding guests. I certainly was.

Sir Frederick Ballantyne, the governor general of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, will be sitting down to some bubble and squeak with 1,900 other swells. St. Vincent is located between Grenada and St. Lucia, west of Barbados. Discovering that someone who may be a 15th cousin thrice removed is a Head of State makes me wonder if I would be welcome to drop in for a visit. Wouldn't hurt to ask.

One could certainly expect that Sir Fred, if he's given the chance, will invite the newlyweds to stop by if they're in the neighbourhood.

Kate is a commoner which seems to have encouraged ethnic ancestry researchers to find some historic family links, including being a distant cousin of George Washington. Sure she is. It wouldn't be as interesting if it turned out she were related to Millard Fillmore.

I have been wondering what the lovebirds call each other behind closed palace doors.

Catherine Elizabeth goes by Kate. It's unlikely anybody calls the groom Willy or Bill. His official title is His Royal Highness Prince William Arthur Philip Louis of Wales. Kate will take the title of Her Royal Highness Princess William of Wales after she says I do.

I would like to think they affectionately call each other Cuddle Bear and Sugar Britches, but chances are it's something as simple as Prince and Princess.

If you haven't made any other plans, and that irritating mourning dove coos you awake just before dawn Friday, you might as well grab the remote. Most coverage begins at 4 a.m.

http://www.simcoe.com/community/barrieinnisfil/article/998694

I sent a comment

Will Kate Walk Down SVG's Isles?

NEW YORK, April 27, 2011 — /PRNewswire/ -- With just a few days left until the Royal wedding, Big Ben is not the only clock ticking away at the countdown. In fact, the names "Prince William & Kate Middleton" seem to be gracing the tips of just about everyone's tongues so frequently that it is hard to escape the ever-present "buzz" of the April 29 Royal wedding—and, better yet, to uncover one of the best-kept secrets...where the couple will honeymoon. As spectators worldwide wait with baited breath, Mustique remains a top destination that Will & Kate are predicted to cozy up on post-wedding. A tropical paradise that sits on a three-square mile in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), Mustique is already a favorite Caribbean hideaway to the British pair.

According to the bookmakers' choice, all bets are on when it comes to Mustique as the happy couple's honeymoon hot spot:
Mustique: 11-4 Kenya: 3-1 Ibiza: 100-1

With its casual, unpretentious authenticity, friendly people and deep wealth of unspoiled natural attractions, SVG's collection of 32 islands and cays is a life-renewing experience. Though Mustique is known as the ultimate hideaway where everyday interruptions are forgotten, the Royal couple certainly won't fall short when it comes to adventure, romance, luxury, and change of scenery. In fact, honeymooning in Mustique offers the best of both worlds: the chance to enjoy the private island's tranquility and picture-perfect beaches, while still having the freedom to island hop and enjoy the distinctly different islands that make up SVG. From the lush greenery of the volcanic island of St. Vincent to sailing around the stunning turquoise waters of the Tobago Cays, Will & Kate won't be disappointed. And whether it's a day trip to Young Island to see where Johnny Depp stayed during the filming of "Pirates of the Caribbean" (room no. 5) or simply cooling off with a drink at Basil's Bar, it doesn't take a Royal couple to discover the charm and spirit of SVG.

For more information, visit www.DiscoverSVG.com and to learn SVG honeymoon tips leading up to the Royal couple's big day, follow along on Twitter: @DiscoverSVG.

SOURCE St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority (SVGTA)

PM Meets President Ma

President Ma Ying-jeou met on the afternoon of April 20 with Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), and Mrs. Gonsalves. The president extended a warm welcome to the couple, noting that this is the eighth visit to Taiwan by Prime Minister Gonsalves.

The president remarked that Prime Minister Gonsalves has enormous experience in politics and is highly regarded in SVG. The president praised the prime minister as an outstanding leader in the Caribbean region. SVG and the ROC have maintained diplomatic relations for 30 years and the Caribbean nation is one of the ROC's best friends. SVG has long supported the ROC's participation in international organizations and related activities, for which he specially expressed his deepest appreciation.

President Ma told his guests that since his inauguration in May 2008 he has sought to strengthen cross-strait relations as a means to peace in the Taiwan Strait and greater participation for Taiwan in the international community. Besides solidifying relationships with its allies, the ROC also desires to contribute more to the global community. In the past nearly three years, Taiwan and mainland China have signed 15 agreements, and Taiwan has participated in the World Health Assembly and become party to the Agreement on Government Procurement. In addition, we have sent officials who were more representative of Taiwan to Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings. These facts show that improvement in cross-strait relations and greater participation in the international community go hand-in-hand, creating a virtuous cycle, the president remarked.

The president reiterated that the government will continue to promote existing cooperation projects with its allies, and seek to extend or expand them. In line with the ROC's White Paper on Foreign Aid Policy, we are pleased to share our development experience with all of our partners, the president said. Furthermore, in carrying out such projects the ROC will "seek proper goals, act lawfully, and exercise effective administration," thereby helping to strengthen bilateral alliances.

President Ma also commented that the Prime Minister's daughter, Isis Gonsalves, is now studying Chinese in Taiwan. The president stated that the ROC hopes to provide even more Taiwan scholarships to allied nations so that outstanding youth from these countries can come to Taiwan to study in Chinese-based or English-based programs at universities here.

Prime Minister and Mrs. Gonsalves were accompanied to the Presidential Office by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Thomas Ping-Fu Hou to meet President Ma. Also attending the meeting was National Security Council Advisor Tung Kuo-yu.

http://english.president.gov.tw/Default.aspx?tabid=491&rmid=2355&itemid=24015

Comrade Ralph in Taiwan

If you look at Grantley Williams page on Facebook you'll see 151 photos by Kenton Chance of PM Ralph Gonsalves meeting other vincies in Taiwan.

Ins and Outs 2011

Ins and Outs of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a magazine formatted guide to SVG. It is generally available at hotels, restaurants and other places that advertise or cater to tourists. If they run out (or if you are in the diaspora [or where tourists come from]) you can read it on the internet at www.insandoutsofsvg.com

I highly recommend it as a reference while planning your visit to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, or while you are here, for that matter. It comes out yearly so try to get a recent version.

Surfside

Sally's birthday was last week, so we went out and had lunch at the Surfside Restaurant in Ratho Mill. We had shrimp in garlic butter and various sides. Very pleasant. The ambiance was good: it was right on the water in Caliaqua Bay. I was pleased that the background music was calypso rather than soca, much more suitable for eating by.
784-457-5362

Tourism Press Release

Breathtaking land and sea locations, sites rich in historical importance, multi-million dollar investments, and now a new, more distinct logo to enhance its brand identity– the 32 isle nation of St Vincent and Grenadines (SVG) has put measures into place to become one of The Caribbean’s most sought-after tourist destinations.

Home to such diverse attractions as La Soufriere, the famous volcano; Mustique, playground of the stars; and the location for the film Pirates of the Caribbean, SVG is also benefiting from numerous capital projects implemented to make the country more attractive to and better able to host international visitors.

As part of the project, a new SVG logo has been launched.

Designed using the national colors, the iconic shape of a seagull’s wings forms the “V” in St. Vincent. The new logo symbolizes SVG as a multi-dimensional experience for visitors; they are free as an all-pervasive bird, with 32 islands to touch on, each with its own character.

The seagull is in flight, connoting the freedom to experience and explore all that SVG has to offer.

“SVG is perhaps one of the best kept secrets of the Caribbean. It is time for the secret to be revealed with a new brand identity for this great destination,” explained Glen Beache, CEO of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority.

“Through several major projects, we will greatly improve our ability to attract and host many more visitors to our islands.”

Major SVG initiatives include:

The new Argyle International Airport, expected to open by early 2013 and offering direct international jet service from the U.S., Canada and Europe
Development of the luxury Buccament Bay Resort by Harlequin Hotels & Resorts (phase one opened on April 3, 2011)
US$100 million upgrade of Raffles by Sandy Lane, renaming it the Canouan Resort
US$60 million upgrade of Petit St. Vincent by its new owners
Opening of 15 tourist sites through a European Union funded project
Implementation of standards for hotels, taxis, tour operators, and rental vehicles

“Our 32 islands not only offer guests an incredible variety of experiences, but they do so with their own unique flavor and beauty – from the black sand beaches of St. Vincent to the multi-hued blues of the waters surrounding the Tobago Cays,” said Hon. Saboto Caesar, Minister of Tourism for SVG.

“For eco-tourists, those interested in aquatic pastimes, weddings and even those who just want to getaway and relax, SVG offers both quantity and quality. Our new brand identity is one of the many ways in which we will convey just how unique our country really has emerged.”

The new SVG logo was created by Trinidad and Tobago-based advertising agency Lonsdale Saatchi and Saatchi, and will be prominently featured in the fresh SVG promotional materials being created to publicize this large-scale tourism thrust.

PM in UK

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves will be addressing the Vincentian Diaspora at a public meeting set to take place in High Wycombe.

On Wednesday, April 27, the Prime Minister will be the feature speaker at the event, which will be hosted by the High Commission for St. Vincent and the Grenadines in association with the Wycombe Multi-Cultural Association.

The venue is Bucks New University, High Wycombe Campus (The Gateway Building, Queen Alexandra Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP11 2JZ).

Limited car parking is available on the campus. Visitors are asked to pull into a temporary 20 minute parking bay then proceed to reception to pay £2 for a parking permit. Escorts will then direct visitors to where they may park for the duration of the meeting.

The meeting will begin at 6:30 pm with light refreshments being served. For more information please call 020 7460 1256.

The Prime Minister will also be attending the Royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton on Friday, April 29. His wife, Eloise, will accompany him.

Gonsalves is one of over 300 government officials who will attend the nuptials, scheduled to take place at Westminster Abbey.

New SVG Logo

CNN Reports on SVG Floods

ttechsaviiy can't get to work because the bridge that connects his town to the rest of the country is destroyed. 'This is supposed to be the dry months. It has not stopped raining. It is a very fine drizzle but there is constant rain changing from heavy to light every few hours.'
- nancyt3, CNN iReport producer

iReport —
this is the worst disaster we have ever seen on this island , talking to the elderly ones they relate that they have never seen such catastrophe in this area. Persons had to be rescued from their houses, where the water was neck height. it was awful and it is not over because the forecast is rainy for the next few days . one woman's effort to escape the ferocious river was washed away and was taught to be dead by her family for up to two hours she was missing,She was eventually rescued.there is also no water and authorities have said it will remain so until maybe next week. truly devastating these flash floods.
update: one man was reportedly saved by climbing a tree and stayed there for four hours until they waters level dropped.

Striking a balance

By D. Markie Spring
Turks and Caicos Islands

Political instability in the Middle East stirs questions about the supplies of oil, while the nuclear energy calamity in Japan surfaced concerns about this type of alternative energy source. Fundamentally, these recent developments have spiraled inflation – particularly, in food and oil prices.

Henceforth, this recent surge in oil and food prices is undermining global recovery; hence, sustainability and geopolitical factors are vulnerable to the heightened uncertainty relative to future prices -- and this is a global phenomenon, which is affecting everywhere not withholding St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).


The author of a number of published works, D. Markie Spring was born in St Vincent and the Grenadines and now resides in Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands. He has an MBA from the University of Leicester, England, and a BA from Saint Mary's University, Canada
Moreover, our prime minister has identified these problems and he had clearly informed the Vincentian public about these issues and the difficult economic times ahead – thoughtful but pragmatic, I must say.

Here, the PM acknowledged that this shocking increase in the oil price has the most significant impact on macroeconomic stability across the globe and in SVG, while an increase in food prices will severely and disproportionately affect those who are poor – an inflationary model, which shows decreasing growth for 2011.

Despite this unwelcome news, I like what I am hearing on the ground in St Vincent and the Grenadines. The first, former Prime Minister Sir James wants to champion the cocoa industry in SVG and our PM is working along with this brilliant idea; our PM is working together with the former PM to make this a reality – good governance and all-round vision. Furthermore, the PM is sending Sir James to the UN on national business. This is the road to bipartisanship, the path to economic and political sustainability and this is what I have been asking our government and opposition to do – great move.

Furthermore, I would like to recommend some strategies and good economic practices, which our government and citizens should undertake. Again, let me highlight how fascinating the political environment in SVG is shaping – for me this is the right direction for the country, despite the recent notorious bills introduced by the present government and the ugly picture the opposition painted in the House of Assembly concerning those same bills, amongst other challenges in our political system.

The government should adjust the budget through careful assessment and weighting of its fiscal policy and encourage diversity in the political economic development. The focus here should be on growing crops that would eliminate or reduce importation of goods. Here, the government is obliged to weigh cautiously the difference between cost of import and local production and exportation of good through measurement of the Net Present Value (NPV).

Henceforth, the opposition is asked to work along with the government in making this is a reality, by providing information and ideas, supporting feasible projects undertaken by the government and providing their expertise when needed.

Like the government, citizens must play their roles in developing the political economy of SVG. Here, all citizens are reminded of the touch choices they are faced relative to discretionary spending; eating out, entertainment and new high-tech electronics, and shop smarter by comparing prices.

Conversely, pointing fingers and shifting the blame to score political points does not solve our political economic challenges nor do they bring calm to our issues. Everything we do as a nation should facilitate a compromise and meet in the middle. Meanwhile let us take a textbook page from the American political economic system, the most stable political system in the world. The Republicans have shut down good governance by the Democrats – one of the reasons for doing so is to prove that the present government is unfit to rule while citizens are suffering – let’s not make this mistake. America today, as we all know, is in disarray.

Vincentians, if our political economic arena demonstrates this new trend for years to come we will be on the right path of nation building. This is what I would refer to as striking the balance – a critical balance that sets apart politics and builds our economy.


http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/svg.php?news_id=5947&start=0&category_id=15

SVG Vies to Become Premier Regional Destination

St. Vincent and The Grenadines (SVG): New Logo, New Caribbean Tourism Capital

NEW YORK, April 13, 2011 /CNW/ -- Breathtaking land and sea locations, sites rich in historical importance, multi-million dollar investments, and now a new, more distinct logo to enhance its brand identity- the 32 isle nation of St. Vincent and Grenadines (SVG) has put measures into place to become one of The Caribbean's most sought-after tourist destinations.

Home to such diverse attractions as La Soufriere, the famous volcano; Mustique, playground of the stars; and the location for the film Pirates of the Caribbean, SVG is also benefitting from numerous capital projects implemented to make the country more attractive to and better able to host international visitors. As part of the project, a new SVG logo has been launched. Designed using the national colors, the iconic shape of a seagull's wings forms the "V" in St. Vincent. The new logo symbolizes SVG as a multi-dimensional experience for visitors; they are free as an all-pervasive bird, with 32 islands to touch on, each with its own character. The seagull is in flight, connoting the freedom to experience and explore all that SVG has to offer.

"SVG is perhaps one of the best kept secrets of the Caribbean. It is time for the secret to be revealed with a new brand identity for this great destination," explained Glen Beache, CEO of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority. "Through several major projects, we will greatly improve our ability to attract and host many more visitors to our islands."

Major SVG initiatives include:
-- The new Argyle International Airport, expected to open by early 2013
and offering direct international jet service from the U.S., Canada
and
Europe
-- Development of the luxury Buccament Bay Resort by Harlequin Hotels &
Resorts (phase one opened on April 3, 2011)
-- US $100 million upgrade of Raffles by Sandy Lane, renaming it the
Canouan Resort
-- US $60 million upgrade of Petit St. Vincent by its new owners
-- Opening of 15 tourist sites through a European Union funded project
-- Implementation of standards for hotels, taxis, tour operators, and
rental vehicles
"Our 32 islands not only offer guests an incredible variety of experiences, but they do so with their own unique flavor and beauty - from the black sand beaches of St. Vincent to the multi-hued blues of the waters surrounding the Tobago Cays," said Hon. Saboto Caesar, Minister of Tourism for SVG. "For eco-tourists, those interested in aquatic pastimes, weddings and even those who just want to getaway and relax, SVG offers both quantity and quality. Our new brand identity is one of the many ways in which we will convey just how unique our country really has emerged."

The new SVG logo was created by Trinidad and Tobago-based advertising agency Lonsdale Saatchi and Saatchi, and will be prominently featured in the fresh SVG promotional materials being created to publicize this large-scale tourism thrust.

** For high resolution images of the new SVG logo and/or to schedule an interview with Glen Beache (CEO of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority), contact Jennifer Reisfeld at Jennifer@spring-obrien.com

About St. Vincent and The Grenadines:
A collection of 32 unspoiled islands and cays in the secluded Southern Caribbean, St. Vincent and the Grenadines boasts the best of what the authentic Caribbean is renowned for. The Grenadines stretch for 45 miles south from the main island of St. Vincent and include eight inhabited islands: Young Island, Bequia, Union, Mayreau, Mustique, Canouan, Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent. Tobago Cays is a horseshoe-shaped reef that shields five deserted islets and is renowned as a sailing and snorkeling mecca. For more information on St. Vincent and the Grenadines, please visit www.discoversvg.com.

For further information: Jennifer Reisfeld, Spring, O'Brien & Co., +1-212-620-7100 X238, jennifer@spring-obrien.com Web Site: http://www.discoversvg.com

Reparations for Garifuna?

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 12, 2011

Contacts: José Francisco Ávila (718) 402-7700 info@garifunacolaition.org

New York – The Board of Directors of the Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. a, nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization on the 214th Anniversary of the Exile of the Garifuna People from the island of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and the in the International Year for People of African Descent, would like to join St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister the honorable Doctor Ralph Gonsalves’ call for reparation for the genocide against the Garifunas by the British.

On September 26, 2007, while addressing the United Nations General Assembly; St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister the Honorable Doctor Ralph Gonsalves, made a call for reparation for the genocide by those nations involved in slavery. More recently, in October 2009, Dr Gonsalves stated “In order to impose its authority and power, the armed forces of British colonialism were not satisfied with merely defeating the Garifuna and killing their leaders including the indomitable Garifuna Chief, Joseph Chatoyer. They went much further. “The British launched an unrestrained criminal campaign against the Garifuna men, women and children. Thousands of the Garifuna were slaughtered …. It was violence in its natural state against innocent defenseless people…." Dr. Gonsalves said up to today, the British have not acknowledged their genocidal crime against humanity, and neither have they consequentially offered compensation to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for substantially obliterating the Garifuna nation.”

Furthermore, on April 1, St Vincent and the Grenadines Consul General in New York Selmon Walters made it known that “The British must pay reparations to the Garifuna People for the wicked deeds they have done against the Garifuna People. The British exterminated many of the Garifuna people. It was an act of genocide against the Garifuna people.”

“On the 214th Anniversary of the Exile of the Garifuna People from the island of St Vincent and the Grenadines, The Garifuna Coalition joins Prime Minister Gonsalves’ and Consul General Walters’ call for reparation for the genocide against the our ancestors by the British, “ said Jose Francisco Avila president of the Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc.

St Vincent and the Grenadines is the Ancestral homeland of the Garifuna people, who defended it against the colonizers in two so-called Carib Wars of 1772-73 and 1795-96. The struggle against the French and British colonials resulted in the Caribs in St Vincent being the last of the indigenous people in the region to hold out against European imperialism. Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer, first National Hero of St Vincent and the Grenadines, is the most visible symbol of that struggle to maintain the sovereignty of the land. Chatoyer was killed on March 14, 1795, after his death, approximately 5,000 Garifunas were subsequently interned on Balliceaux, a small island off the mainland. Disease, melancholy and starvation reduced the population to 2,500 when the remainder were rounded up in British naval ships and were exiled off to Roatan Island off the coast of Honduras, there to begin a period of wandering and subsequent settlement in many Central American republics, including Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Belize. The survivors of British injustice formed the nucleus of the modern Garifuna community in the Diaspora.

Garifuna Pride - Our Voice - Our Vision
Garinagu Wagia!

Gonsalves: Coke trade a big problem

BY: GERCINE CARTER
Cocaine from Latin America is posing a “real challenge” to Caribbean countries such as Barbados and St Vincent, even as these countries make progress in controlling the marijuana trade.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, of St Vincent and the Grenadines, cited the problem as he spoke with the Midweek Nation at the University of the West Indies Cave Hill campus on Monday night.

The Prime Minister had earlier touched on the subject of illegal drugs in his country when he addressed students in the Henry Fraser Lecture Theatre on Challenges Faced By Caribbean Nations In Achieving Developed Nation Status.

Gonsalves told the packed room he had resorted to going after financial accounts of people in St Vincent suspected to be involved in the illegal drug business, as a means of crippling the trade.

In an interview after, Gonsalves stated: “The way to deal with them is the way I deal with them in St Vincent. I go for them individually . . . . I go for their money.”

However, he was concerned that the real challenge “is not so much marijuana but the cocaine from Latin American”.

Drugs coming in

“It is not a situation where it is only that ganja is coming from St Vincent to Barbados. It is the drugs coming through Colombia, Venezuela, Trinidad, Barbados, to St Vincent, sometimes coming through Barbados first, going up the road.”

Gonsalves said through heightened co-operation between the region’s security forces which worked bilaterally through the Regional Security System (RSS), there had been the exchange of information on “who the bad guys and girls are”.

He said such intelligence had been responsible for the apprehension of several people here and in St Vincent engaged in the illegal drug trade.

Gonsalves said there had been “tremendous improvement” in the reduction of marijuana cultivation in St Vincent, though his life had at times been threatened.

NationNews.com © Nation Publishing Co. Limited 2011

PM Gonsalves delivers powerful message

4/13/2011

Solidarity is the hallmark of a developed people. That is according to Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who delivered the University of the West Indies Students Today, Alumni Tomorrow (UWISTAT) Vice Chancellor’s Ambassador Corps, Cave Hill Prime Minister’s lecture.

Speaking on the topic ‘Developing into a Developed State: Challenges Faced by Caribbean Nations in Achieving Developed Nation Status’ on Monday night at the Henry Fraser Lecture Theatre, Faculty of Medical Sciences, UWI, Dr. Gonsalves told the packed theatre that solidarity is key to development.

“Brightness can’t get you to a university if you do not have an opportunity to attend one. What is the essential fact of this university is that it started because of the struggle and solidarity of ordinary people. So your brightness, while it is necessary for you to enter here, it is not sufficient condition of your presence. That is why you have to be in solidarity with the people who send you here, and solidarity is the hallmark of a developed people,” said Dr. Gonsalves.

“I realise that when you are finished you have to buy a car, a house and look for a spouse. These are normal things, but you can do these things while still being in solidarity with people and by doing your best to help to make the country and the people better because they have sacrificed to bring you here. That is part of the process of development,” he asserted.

Dr. Gonsalves told those in attendance that if nothing else, remember sacrifice, solidarity, love of country, the region and God.

The PM said that improving the region’s physical and social well-being must be done in the context of our Caribbean civilisation.

“We never had an empire, but that does not make us not a civilisation. We have a legitimacy. We have a history and we have a trajectory for further ennoblement. So when we have the quest for the advancement of social and material indices, we don’t [have to] become a mirror image of the United States. We have to do it within a socio-cultural framework of a Caribbean civilisation.”

Noting several challenges that the Caribbean faces such as small size, lack of competitiveness, limited material resources, the legacy of slavery and colonialism, he pointed out that crime is a serious issue impacting the push to ‘developed nation’ status.

The way forward, he noted, was – among other things – having a people-centred vision, making the region safe and enhancing law and order, enhancing health and wellness and social security, and building our Caribbean civilisation.

He addressed the impact of the economic crisis on the region: “We have a series of challenges and they are getting even more severe in this period. The world economic crisis of 2008 and continuing is still with us; the recovery is haunting, in some places episodic...We see the cuts in the USA, the UK. All those things are taking place and making life difficult for us...”

Prime Minister Gonsalves suggested that Governments speak honestly to the people in light of the current circumstances.

“It is not a time for foolishness. The opening lines of the Barbados National Anthem say ‘In plenty and in time of need’ because the founding fathers realised there would be some difficulties, but we must not treat every difficulty as if it were a crisis...”

He said if this is “communicated to the people in a manner in which they would understand, you would therefore find solutions to hold you in these times of difficulty before they become looming and perpetual crises. That is part and parcel of our task in our civilisation as we move to improve our material well-being and our social security within the context of our Caribbean civilisation.” (AR)

http://www.barbadosadvocate.com/newsitem.asp?more=local&NewsID=16979

Rain Damage in SVG

Rains across most of the Caribbean today, more so in the Windward Islands have caused flooding in St. Lucia, Barbados and, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. However, it was St. Vincent and the Grenadines that suffered the most with landslide occurring on the Windward side of the island, causing disruption to communication, however the extent of the damages are not known as yet.

PM Ralph Gonsalves reported in TV Tues night that there was much damage to roads in the northeastern part of St. Vincent (Congo Valley to Fancy) from rain-caused landslides. Roads are clogged or impassable.

ROC(Taiwan) and St. Vincent and the Grenadines

The Taiwanese Embassy yesterday handed over three Agricultural Cooperation Projects to the Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Speaking at that ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said that the Government would continue to partner with the Republic of China on Taiwan to improve its agriculture industry.


http://vob929.ocmnet.net/vob/news/regionalnews/11-04-01/St_Vincent_Grenadines_continue_to_partner_with_Republic_of_China_on_Taiwan.aspx

Museum in Carnegie Building

Some recent aquisitions from the archeological team working in Argyle

“Hairouna, the Land of The Blessed”

[Every now and again I like to put in a well-written tourism blurb.]

 
This country consists of the main island of Saint Vincent and the northern two-thirds of the Grenadines, which are a chain of smaller islands stretching south from Saint Vincent Island to Grenada. Saint Vincent is densely populated (over 300 inhabitants/sq km) with its 120,000 people. Its capital is Kingstown, also its main port.

The islands of St. Vincent & the Grenadines are lovely, natural and have mostly escaped the mass tourism market as opposed to some of the other Caribbean islands but what sets it apart from everyone else is the superior service. The people of St. Vincent are naturally nice people, caring about customers and indeed appreciative of your business. Thus, this island ranks high on Insider’s Guide® “service scale”.

Of the thirty-two islands that make up this country only eight of the Grenadines are populated and four of these have small Airports: Bequia, Mustique, Canouan and Union. The other islands that make up this wondrous chain have been designated as bird sanctuaries, wildlife reserves and draw hikers and ecotourism lovers and from all over the world

With the combination of these lovely islands and the people that make it up, Insiders-Guide® has come up with ten things you must place on your itinerary when visiting St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

THE MAIN ISLAND OF ST. VINCENT.

1.       Take a boat across to Young island for lunch:

Young Island is only 180m (590ft) off the main island of St. Vincent. The entire island comprises one resort called Young Island Resort, which consists of about twenty-nine cottages set on the beaches and hillsides. To stay on this island is very expensive and the owners mainly cater for the high-end tourist, but certainly everyone can experience this tropical eco-paradise. Take a tiny launch which operates like a water-taxi from the St. Vincent dock and in three to four minutes you are there. Young island is a tropical garden paradise like you will not see anywhere else in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Just by walking on its pathways, you will feel like you have immediately grown closer to nature. Our pick is a nice lunch at the resort’s restaurant, ask for the fresh bread platter and choose a fresh cut of cinnamon, multi-grain or Caribbean sweet bread. Move on to the Caribbean Snapper fish and look to see if you can get it prepared in a Creole sauce, have a nice cool Caribbean frozen drink on the side. Young Island is indeed an unforgettable experience that can be shared by all. http://www.youngisland.com/dining.htm

2.       Explore the many waterfalls of the island in a site-seeing tour

We recommend a day trip to the Falls of Baleine, located on the North Western tip of St. Vincent; it is approximately sixty feet deep and forms a series of shallow pools at the base. Visitors can only reach here by hiking or a boat trip. For first time visitors and especially if you have kids, go with the boat. The falls are located at the northern tip of St Vincent and trips can be organized through your hotel or guest house.  

 The falls of Baleine are a very popular attraction in St. Vincent and there are easy facilities for the mooring of boats. There is an area for you to have a light snack or your lunch and a  concrete path you can take to a viewing point of the Falls. There are other Falls in St. Vincent you may consider if the picturesque is a large part of your itinerary:

Trinity Falls are a little more difficult to get access. It consists of a hike approximately forty-five minutes through the tropical rainforest.

The Fall itself is a sight to behold. A massive forty foot sheet of crystal clear water descends in three shelves into a pool. It then falls approximately another ten feet into a second pool, which is used by visitors for swimming. The return hike can be a little tough, but a good guide can take you to and from without any challenges.

Dark View Falls is up the mountain from Richmond Beach on the Leeward side of St. Vincent. This we recommend for the adventurous or the fit amongst us as although it is beautiful, the area is remote and a bit tough to negotiate.

3. Saturday Market in Kingstown

Visit the lively port and market town of Kingstown; the capital of St Vincent.

This town contains many shops and is reflective of the hustle and bustle Caribbean style. You will see people visiting the many reasonably priced shops, look for a nice arts and craft one, there are a few on the Main Street; check out the artesian items made by local talented “Vincentians”.

Kingston is also the center of commerce for all the Grenadine islands, so a little tip, if you need urgent bank business done, do it here.

Dependent on your timing in St. Vincent, visit the Saturday morning market. Here you will see stalls piled high with fresh fruit and vegetables or you will see people laying their ground provisions and other toils of their labor at your feet like a carpet of wondrous Caribbean color. The market brings everyone to town and you will get a real true taste of Caribbean and St. Vincent culture.

 4.       Visit Bequia for a lovely snorkeling adventure
Bequia – “Island of the clouds”

As you continue your trip you can ferry across to Bequia or take the short flight. (Insiders-Guide® TIP):  If you are relatively sea-worthy, take the ferry as it is much easier on your budget and you get to take in the fresh sea-breeze, watch the birds surf the winds and get a taste of the local culture as many Vincentians take this mode of transport. Check the link below to plan your ferry trip http://www.bequia.net/ferrysvcs.htm

If you are planning your trip directly to Bequia, please also see routing information http://www.bequiatourism.com/gethere.htm 

Bequia is the largest island in the Grenadine chain. It is renowned for its boat builders. One can often see the skilled builders plying working hard at this very old tradition and indeed it has become quite a tourist attraction. But you are not here to watch others work are you? Take your snorkeling around Bell’s Point or Shark Bay west as far as Spring Bay. Some dive boats take people to Lower Bight off Moonhole and others like the shore area near the buoy marking the headland at Devil’s Table entering Admiralty Bay from the Bequia Channel. There is a very wide selection and indeed you will claim your designated favorite area in no time.  (Insiders-Guide® TIP):  Beginners can snorkel around the point at the Eastern side of Port Elizabeth towards the end of Lower Bay 
 
5. Do a day trip to  Mustique

Mustique is a small chuck of paradise only 4.5 sq km (2 sq miles). This island is privately owned by a consortium of businesspeople so make sure and plan our trip in advance. This island has long been a hiding place for the rich and famous. There is only one major hotel (the Cotton House). http://discoversvg.com/index.php/en/mustique/what-to-do
Macaroni Beach is one of the better beaches, where the water is turquoise, the sands are pure white, and a few trees shade the picnic tables.

Also very nice is Britannia Bay, which is next to the jetty and close to one of the recommended places to eat and have a nice relaxing refreshment, Basil’s Bar http://www.basilsmustique.com/
For you adventurous ones wanting to see the many mansions of Mustique, you can tour the small island: rent a Mini-Moke, it is a small vehicle much like a golf cart. Pecky’s taxi also provides transport around Mustique +784-488-8000 or Mustique Mechanical Services can arrange a vehicle or mountain bike +784-488-8555.

 6. Take a Hike!

St. Vincent and the Grenadines offer visitors some world class opportunities for lovely eco-adventures while hiking. Some of the more popular hikes include:
i)                    La Soufriere Volcano – This hike is a tough one and takes approximately two plus hours. However the destination and the benefits of the scenery, magnificent view and stunning landscape can help to ease the toil;
Although mentioned before under “Explore the many waterfalls of the island in a site-seeing tour” you may include the two falls below as part of your Vincentian hiking adventure:
ii)                   Dark View falls – This is an easy hike/walk that is fun for everyone. Discover one of St. Vincent’s most picturesque sceneries without the hassle of a tough hike. Have a bath in the cool water pools of this waterfall;
iii)                 Trinity falls – this fair to medium difficulty hike takes you to a serene getaway where you can bathe in the cool waters of the river or just sit on a rock, have a bite and listen to nature around you. Trinity Falls are approximately forty feet high and have a three stage fall to its final destination of a lovely cool pool;
iv)                 Vermont Nature Trails – Catch a glance if you can of St. Vincent’s endangered parrot (Amazona guildingii). With an estimate of just about 600 living in the wild, visitors can be part of the conservation of this beautiful bird by educating themselves. This nature park reserve was established in 1987 with a view of saving this creature. There are two main trails, the Parrot lookout trail and the River trail.

 7. Canouan beaches

Take in the beautiful beaches on Canouan and this island claims some of the best in the Caribbean with long stretches of powder-white sands, wide shallows and actually is also home to one of the Caribbean’s largest coral reefs. This reef protects the Atlantic side of the island and provides a haven for bathers to swim in almost a pool-like environment.

Canouan has become somewhat upscale over the years and is now home to a world famous golf course and resort. The resort is located on Carenage Bay and Godahl Bay which are also breathtaking.

The other gorgeous beaches and bays include Windward Bay, Charlestown Bay and Friendship Bay.

This island is accessible for the more financially privileged amongst us with a good runway where many private jets land, to world classed yachting facilities as well as through commercial access. Flights can be taken from the main island of St. Vincent  daily.

The main recipe of this island is simply to relax. With all the activities of water sports, pools, frolicking in the sun, snorkeling in some of the best waters in the world, you still find wonderful peace. Listen to the waves lap on the shores while you read that book; catch up on your tan (don’t forget the sunscreen) or; spend quality time with your family or other loved ones. 

8. Go to Union Island

On this island one can stare in awe at Mount Parnassus as it soars over 900ft from the sea. This mountainous island has lovely beaches and is the favorite stop for visiting and frequent yachting enthusiasts.

Union Island is also famous in the Grenadines for its lobster and conch. Come taste true Caribbean flavor with these dishes. But be careful the pepper sauce is as it describes itself – hot!

Listen to steel pan (the national instrument of Trinidad & Tobago) bands playing Caribbean music which you can’t help but groove to.

If you want to get away from it all, Union Island is also the place. Enjoy quiet days of reflection, a good novel surrounded by true Caribbean beauty.

You can also relax on one of the peaceful beaches. One of the more popular and indeed beautiful beaches is Chatham Beach on the west side of the island.
But choices abound in the Caribbean and Union Island is no different. Try going to Bloody Bay or Campbell or Richmond.

9.       Diving and snorkeling

St. Vincent and the Grenadines offers visitors snorkeling and scuba diving experiences no matter what their level of comfort. The underwater experience can be seen easily as the islands offer fantastic shallow reef views. For the more daring or experienced amongst us, you can dive to old sea wrecks, through caves or explore the seas to spot the tens of thousands of interesting creatures.

A favourite activity is going to the Tobago Cays and trying to spot a sea turtle. Lobsters (the spiny Caribbean kind), manta rays and small octopus are not at all uncommon in these waters rich in food and beauty.

The Tobago Cays and Mayreau Island are protected by a U-Shaped barrier reef and are the pinnicle of Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Grenadines. They are established marine parks and are home to a wide array of tropical fishes and support a very healthy eco-system that encourages these creatures to breed. The result are waters filled with young fish not fearing human forces as yet and perfect to get that underwater photo or close up view.

10.    Sail St. Vincent and the Grenadines

 St. Vincent and the Grenadines offer visitors phenomenal sceneries, lush forests, from black to white sand beaches and memories of a lifetime.

What better way to add to these experiences than to sail the myriad of beautiful islands and Cays.

Though there are many high priced options available, there are ways one can enjoy sailing within a budget.

Visitors can arrange day charters at reasonable prices through their hotels. Just tell the concierge your budget and they will find something for you. 
One of the most popular trips to discover the beauty of these islands is to the Tobago Cays. The water is crystal clear, warm as the Caribbean sea often is and great for the avid or amateur snorkeler.

Another you may want to consider is to Bequia. As mentioned this is the largest of the Grenadine islands and a favorite for boat builders. Insiders-Guide® Tip: Many local fishermen organize trips to the islands and get you there very safely. Explore it as an option. So whether it is the expensive catamaran or the exciting pirogue, look at your options and enjoy this tropical paradise from the sea!
 

http://www.caribbeaninsidersguide.com/?page_id=525

GHS Events

Click to enlarge.

Invitation

click to enlarge

A romantic holiday in St Vincent

By Joey Barclay

April 2, 2011- Go to St Vincent for the most romantic holiday you can ever plan for your loved one. St Vincent and the Grenadines, like all the Windward Islands, is a staggering vista of contrasts where lush mountain peaks sit alongside striking volcanic black-sand beaches. This place offers you peace and total relaxation. Made up of 32 islands and cays, the destination is one of the most mesmerizing locations in the Caribbean, with secluded coves, spectacular coral reefs, staggering scenery and deserted beaches. All that you ever ask for a romantic getaway then St Vincent should be your prior choice.


St Vincent and the Grenadines provide the perfect setting for a romantic holiday you really are longing for. Head out to sea and take a boat trip to the Falls of Baleine, at the northern tip of St Vincent and dive into a series of shallow pools. Or charter a private yacht and sail around the myriad islands. Visit Young Island and stroll hand in hand through the tropical foliage and blossoms whilst gazing at the procession of yachts sailing into the harbor of St Vincent. Or simply pack a picnic and hike up La Soufrière volcano in the north of the St Vincent for a wonderful bird’s eye view of the crater and its islands. Couples seeking a slightly more adventurous lunch or dinner experience should take the scenic drive out to Pebbles in Mount Pleasant. Go all out and plan you ultimate romantic wedding one of the many exotic beaches. This place is your best choice for a romantic exotic honeymoon you always dreamed of.

http://www.newsi.es/a-romantic-holiday-in-st-vincent/884172/