Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: geography, government, economics, science and culture

Official name- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. A state in the West Indies in the Lesser Antilles group. Located on the island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (32 islands). The total area is 389 km2, the population is 116.4 thousand people. (2002 estimate). Official language- English. The capital is Kingstown (17 thousand people, est. 2002). Public holiday - Independence Day October 27 (since 1979). The monetary unit is the East Caribbean dollar. Member of the UN (since 1980) and its specialized organizations, the OAS, the Commonwealth of Nations, CARI-COM, etc.

Attractions Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Geography of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

They are located between 12°32′ and 13°23′ north latitude and 6Г05′ and 6Г33′ west longitude. They are washed by the Caribbean Sea in the west and the Atlantic Ocean in the east. The length of the coastline is 84 km. The terrain is mountainous volcanic origin, the highest point is the active volcano Soufrière (1234 m), the last eruption in 1979 caused the evacuation of the population from almost 2/3 of the country's territory. The climate is tropical trade winds, the average annual temperature is +26°С. The average annual rainfall is approx. 2500 mm. Tropical hurricanes are possible from June to November. Significant hydro resources. Nearly 1/3 of electricity is generated at hydroelectric power stations. Forests cover 47% of the territory. The largest land animal is the agouti from the order of rodents, a large species diversity of birds.

Population of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

There is a permanent population on 8 of the 33 islands of the state. More than 90% of the population lives on the island of St. Vincent. The population increases slightly: in 1997-2002 - from 112.4 thousand to 116.4 thousand people. (estimated). The annual increase is 0.37%, the birth rate is 17.5%, the death rate is 6.12%, the infant mortality rate is 16.2 people. per 1000 newborns (2002 estimate). The average life expectancy is 72.8 years. Age structure: 0-14 years old - 28.9%, 15-59 years old - 64.8%, 60 years and older - 6.3%. There are 103 men for every 100 women. Share of urban population 55%, emigration 1.2% (est. 2002). Adult literacy is 96%. Vincentians are predominantly mulattoes and descendants of African slaves, 8% are Indians and Sambos. Official language- English, but part of the population in everyday life uses Patois - the local dialect French. Protestants predominate (Anglicans 47%, Methodists 28%), Catholics 13%. History St. Vincent Island was discovered by the expedition of H. Columbus in 1498 on St. Vincent's Day. In the 15th-17th centuries. Carib Indians lived on the islands, who put up serious resistance to European colonists who tried to settle on the island. Until the 17th century - possession of Spain. During the 17th and 18th centuries alternately passed under the control of France and Great Britain. Under the Treaty of Versailles in 1783, it finally became a colony of Great Britain. Until the abolition of slavery in 1838, Negro slaves were used as labor on the plantations of St. Vincent. In 1846 a group of Portuguese and later Indians were brought in to work on the plantations. Until 1956, St. Vincent was part of the Windward Islands, in 1958-62 - in the West Indies Federation. In 1969 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was declared a state associated with Great Britain. In 1974, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines became part of the Caribbean Community, and independence was proclaimed in 1979. In 2000, an attempt to raise the salaries of members of parliament led to massive popular demonstrations and early elections held in March 2001.

State structure and political system of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sovereign state within the Commonwealth. parliamentary democracy. The Constitution of 1979 is in force. Administrative-territorial division - 6 parishes: Charlotte, Grenadines, St. Andrew, St. David, St. George and St. Patrick. Largest cities and settlements: Kingstown, Georgetown, Chateaubelaire, Buera. The British dominion, the head of state is the Queen (since 1952 - Elizabeth II), represented by the Governor General (since 2002 - F. N. Ballantyne). Legislative power is vested in a unicameral chamber of assembly consisting of 6 senators appointed by the governor-general and 15 deputies elected by popular vote for a term of 5 years ( last elections March 28, 2001). Executive power is vested in the government headed by the prime minister. The leader of the party that won the election, as a rule, is appointed prime minister, since March 29, 2001 - R. Goncalves. Judicial power belongs to the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court(located in Saint Lucia). The affairs of local self-government are under the jurisdiction of the relevant ministry, there are no local authorities in any of the 6 parishes. Formally, there are 6 political parties, in fact - a two-party system. The Labor Unity Party was created in 1994 by combining the St. Vincent Labor Party, which had been active since 1955 and headed the first independent government, and the National Unity Movement. It is a party of social democratic orientation, stands for the national unity of all citizens and their equal rights, but pays special attention to protecting the interests of the poor and disadvantaged residents. Advisory member of the Socialist International. In the 2001 elections, she received 57% of the vote and 12 seats in the House of Assembly. Leader - R. Goncalves. The New Democratic Party was founded in 1975. It occupies a center-right position. It is a member of the International Democratic Union. Number of 7 thousand people. Was in power in 1984-2001. In the 2001 elections, she won 3 seats in the House of Assembly. Leader - A. Eustace. The United Popular Movement was created in 1979 by the merger of several small left-wing groups. Adheres to a socialist orientation. In the 1979 elections, it won 14.4% of the vote, since then it has been constantly losing the support of the electorate. In the intervals between elections, it practically does not function. Leader - A. Saunders. The National Reform Party, the People's Progressive Movement and the Progressive Labor Party have no political influence. Domestic policy aims to reduce unemployment, increase funding social programs(education, medicine, road construction), economic restructuring. In foreign policy the government supports programs for integration into CARICOM and the Free Trade Area of the Americas. Armed forces represented by the local police corps.

Economy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The volume of GDP in current prices is 360.6 million US dollars, GDP per capita is 3.05 thousand US dollars (2002 estimate). In the 1990s the average annual GDP growth was 2.5%, in 2001 there was a decrease in GDP by 0.8%, and consumer price deflation by 0.4% was also recorded (2001). Unemployment 19.8% (2000). The share of agriculture and fisheries in GDP is 11.7%, energy 7.1%, construction and industry 15.8%, service sector 65.8% (2002 estimate). The manufacturing industry is represented by the production of cement, furniture, clothing, processing of agricultural products and the production of starch from arrowroot (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the world's leading producer, approx. 150 tons of starch annually). In the 1990s enterprises for the production of tennis rackets and the assembly of electrical equipment for export were opened. The economy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines remains dependent on traditional agriculture. Cultivated (2002): bananas (main cash crop, production declining, 45 thousand tons), coconuts (23.7 thousand tons), sweet potatoes, tobacco (85 tons), spices, arrowroot. The number of cattle is 6.2 thousand heads, pigs - 9.5 thousand, sheep - 13 thousand, goats - 6 thousand, chickens - 200 thousand (2002). Fishing for domestic consumption and for export (7.3 thousand tons of fish were caught in 2000). The total length of motor roads is 1.04 thousand km, of which 340 km are paved. main port- Kingstown. 6 airports, including 5 with paved lanes (up to 1523 m long). An undersea cable connects Saint Vincent and the Grenadines with other islands in the Caribbean. The number of Internet users in 2001 reached 3500 people. The central bank in relation to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank. The exchange rate of the national currency is fixed to the US dollar at a ratio of 2.7:1. A small offshore banking center (the first offshore laws were adopted in 1976, new financial legislation - in 1996). Attracting foreign capital contributes to the complete confidentiality of banking information. In con. In 2001, 38 banks were registered, but the number is decreasing as St. Vincent and the Grenadines is listed as a country whose legislation favors money laundering. Efforts are being made to get out of this "black" list. In 2002, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was removed from the OECD list of countries that constitute a "tax haven". The provision of a "flag of convenience" is practiced. In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, 788 vessels (with a displacement of more than 1000 tons) are registered, including 735 foreign ones. Throughout the 1990s. there was a steady increase in the number of tourists: from 77 thousand people. in 1986 to 245.4 thousand people. in 2002 (including 70.3 thousand cruise ships and 84.5 thousand from yachts). Special attention is given to tourism related to the rental and recreation on yachts, as well as sailing. Tourism revenue in 2002 (estimated) was $78.4 million. The share of taxes in GDP amounted to 25.5%, incl. OK. 1/2 - taxes and duties on foreign trade activities and approx. 1/3 - income tax (2002 estimate). The state budget in 1998-2001 was reduced to a positive balance, in 2002, as a result of large-scale social programs, the budget deficit amounted to 3.5%. External debt 46% of GDP (2002). Total public sector debt 68.9% of GDP (2001). The volume of exports for 1998-2002 decreased from 50.1 million to 42.2 million US dollars, imports - from 201.3 million to 181.9 million. Main trading partners (2002 estimate): CARICOM countries (51.4% of exports , 30% of imports, including Trinidad and Tobago 10.2% of exports and 20.9% of imports), USA (3.3% of exports, 38% of imports), UK (40.2% of exports, 8.6 % of imports). In the structure of commodity exports, 50% falls on agricultural products, incl. 30.6% bananas (2002 est.). The trade balance is chronically negative; financed by income from the service sector. The economic policy is aimed at reducing the dependence of the economy on agriculture, in particular on the monoculture production of bananas, by diversifying crop production, establishing direct links between agricultural producers and sales markets, and creating jobs in other industries. Stimulation of development international tourism by supporting the hotel industry, small private businesses, infrastructure construction. Improving offshore legislation to remove St. Vincent and the Grenadines from the "black" list through the adoption of amendments and new laws. GDP per capita at purchasing power parity in 2002 was 5.33 thousand US dollars. Average monthly salary $146.7. 17% of the population lives below the poverty line. On the Human Development Index, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines ranks 91st in the world.

Science and culture of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Universal compulsory and free education for children aged 5 to 15. Active 65 primary schools(19.17 thousand students, 767 teachers in 1999), 21 secondary schools, technical college. Bishop's private college has been operating since 1963. In cooperation with the Memorial University of Newfoundland (Canada) in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines there is a College of Education. Several periodicals are published, incl. The Vincentian (since 1919) and the Government Gazette (since 1868). There are 4 local radio stations, there is 1 local TV station, cable and satellite TV broadcasting of the main US and UK channels. In 2000, there were (per 1,000 people) 685 radios, 234 televisions, and 105.8 personal computers in the country. Botanical Garden Kingstown, founded in 1765, is considered the oldest in the Western Hemisphere. The National Museum is located in Kingstown.

/ Saint Vincent & the Grenadines

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines- an island state in the West Indies, located in the Lesser Antilles (Windward Islands), south of Saint Lucia and north of Grenada. It occupies St. Vincent and the northern part of the Grenadines archipelago. Area - 389 sq. km. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a constitutional monarchy within the Commonwealth, led by Great Britain. Travel business most developed on the island of St. Vincent and the island of Bequia, which are famous for their beaches. Grenadines are popular among wealthy tourists, yacht owners and spearfishers.

Saint Vincent is an island of volcanic origin. Area 344 sq. km. The main part of St. Vincent is occupied by mountains covered with forests. The highest point is the active volcano Soufrière (1234 m). There is a lake in its crater. Soufrière erupted in 1718, 1812, 1902 and 1979.

To the south of it is a chain of gradually lowering cones extinct volcanoes. steep western slopes mountains run down to the sea streams, forming picturesque waterfalls and turning after tropical showers into turbulent streams. The eastern slopes are gentler, longer, wider and high-water rivers.

The beaches of the island are covered with black volcanic sand; the exception is the white sandy beaches at the southern tip of the island. Saint Vincent Island The mountains are covered in places with dense rainforests and shrubs. The fauna of birds is rich (the endangered St. Vincent Amazon parrot, a rare subspecies of the red-throated hermit thrush, etc.). Coastal waters abound with fish, crustaceans and molluscs.

Several forest and ornithological reserves operate on the islands for the purpose of nature protection. Kingstown is the island capital, whose unique beauty lies in colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and stunning wilderness.

You can get acquainted with the history of the island while visiting the main attractions of Kingstown: the Anglican Cathedral of St. George, the Catholic Cathedral of St. Mary built in the 19th century, Fort Charlotte - the offspring of the era of the so-called "Black Caribbean", as well as noisy Friday or Saturday markets that speak a lot about modern life islands.

However, the true charm Saint Vincent opens only during immersion in its virgin and truly exotic nature. The pride of the island is the botanical gardens, founded in 1763 and being the oldest in the Western Hemisphere. The gardens, located near the city center, have a huge collection tropical plants from all over the world, about the peculiarities of local use of which are told by expert guides.

The small garden zoo houses endangered species of tropical parrots, and romantic wedding ceremonies are held in the central gazebo. The Baleine waterfalls (approx. 18 m), located in a narrow valley in the northwestern part of the island, also deserve the attention of tourists. On the way to the waterfalls, you can also see the Trinity Falls, which, falling from the cliff, is clearly divided into three streams. The real attraction of St. Vincent is the Soufrière volcano, located near the city of Georgetown.

Its last eruption was recorded in 1979. From the top of the volcano, which occupies about one third of the entire island, amazing views of its smoldering crater and nearby islands open up. Many areas of the island are not accessible by car, but the southern part of St. Vincent is literally cut up by roads winding among the green mountain peaks.

The islands of the Grenadines archipelago are small in size, the largest are Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mero and Union.

Many of the Grenadines are surrounded by coral reefs. Bequia - translated from the local dialect as "island of clouds" - is the largest and one of the busiest islands in the Grenadines chain. Bequia, literally immersed in the greenery of gentle hills, is located 14 km southwest of about. St. Vincent is home to numerous yachts that moor in Admiralty Bay on the lee side of the island.

tourist areas

Island Canouan, island Mustique- have excellent opportunities for a secluded and comfortable stay.

Island petit st vincent- a real place for the elite. Those who are tired of close attention to themselves or from the fuss run here. big cities. There is no casino, no cabaret, no trade on the island. Here they deliberately do not use the phone and do not wear a tie. The atmosphere of simplicity and carefree life, untouched nature and good society.

Bequia Island

The life of the island is inextricably linked with the sea. Bequia is famous for its small restaurants where you can taste the unique seafood cuisine, and shops where you can buy models of boats of all types and sizes. Every year (usually in April) the island hosts the Easter Regatta, which attracts participants from all over the Caribbean. In the southern part of Admiralty Bay is Moonhall - a real island miracle. Moonhall (Moon Hole) is unusual houses, similar to bizarre caves in the rocks, designed by American architect Tom Johnston.

All houses are built exclusively from natural materials, there is not a single straight line in them. At the top of the rock hanging over the "city" a natural hole has formed, into which at night it penetrates mysterious light moon. The island is also famous for its numerous bays, which are popular with snorkelers.

Mero Island

Mero Island - the entire population of the island is about 200 people living in a village located on the highest hill. Dry and hilly island, one of the smallest in the Grenadines chain, is a private property. The only way to get here is by sea.

Union Island

O. Union is one of the most southern islands in the Grenadine chain - with its silhouette it reminds of Fr. Tahiti. The indigenous people of the island were Indians from South America, but after the conquests of England and France, slaves were brought here from Cameroon and Angola, whose descendants are local population. On about. Union is the second highest point of the state after the volcano Soufrière - Mount Taboy. The island is surrounded by reefs, thanks to which its coastal waters are convenient place for snorkelling. In the harbors Union often stops ships from Grenada and about. Carriacou to Saint Vincent.

The island has an airport, thanks to which it is easy to get here from Barbados and Grenada. Mustique Island Mustique - located 11 km southeast of about. Bequia.

Mustique is a small private island, only 8 kilometers long, which is truly considered an elite resort, a vacation spot for the rich and famous people from all over the world. Mustique - true tropical paradise, white people are waiting for you here sandy beaches, wooded hills that are reflected in the emerald sea. You can get from the airport by boat. The boat berths in the heart of the island, Britannia Bay.

It is here that the bars, restaurants and shops of the island are concentrated. O. Canuan Canuan Island is a dry, hilly island, limited barrier reef in the Atlantic Ocean, located 40 km south of about. St. Vincent and 18 km south of about. Mustique. Untouched by nature and remote from civilization, Canouan Island is one of the most luxurious and romantic destinations.

The most beautiful, quiet island, the slopes of which are decorated with flowering cacti, is famous for two excellent beaches: in Glossy Bay and Friendship Bay and one of the world's largest (!) coral reefs, which promises an unforgettable experience for divers. Here, about a thousand people live in seclusion, who are engaged in fishing and farming. One of the most famous yacht charter companies, The Moorings, opened its club on Canouan Island in 2003 and now this island attracts yachtsmen from all over the world.

You can get to the island with American Airlines, which offers several flights a week to Canuan Island from Puerto Rico, and Liat, which operates daily flights from Barbados. Tobago Cays Islands Tobago Cays - a complex of four small islands covered with low vegetation.

The islands are surrounded by underwater reef, which makes it difficult for ships to pass in these places.

ENTERTAINMENT

Vinci Ma Carnival in St. Vincent is the main event of the year. It takes place in the first two weeks of July and includes a 12-day calypso music marathon and folk band festival, costumed parades and dances. Most of the Carnival action takes place in Kingstown.

On Beki, on the eve of Easter, the main regatta on the islands is held.

Christmas holidays (locally - "Nine Monings") begin on December 15 and are distinguished by processions through the streets of Kingstown, bicycle races and string orchestra serenades.

The first of May is Fisherman's Day on St. Vincent, which is a week-long competition in which the fishermen of the island catch a lot of fish in all ways, and therefore the catches are super large.

HELPFUL INFORMATION

CAPITAL

Capital- Kingstown with a population of 19.2 thousand people. POPULATION As of 2004, the population of St. Vincent is 117.2 thousand people. The majority of the population are African Americans, descendants of slaves brought from Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. Other racial-ethnic groups are descendants of Europeans, Indians, Carib Indians and mixed groups.

LANGUAGE

The official language is English. The local population also speaks the local language Krioli with an English basis. The older generation in everyday life retained Patois - the local dialect of the French language.

RELIGION

Almost half of the inhabitants of the island belong to Anglican Church; other believers include Methodists, Catholics, Adventists, and Hindus.

CURRENCY

East Caribbean dollar (EC$), equal to 100 cents. Most hotels and shops accept traveler's checks, US and Canadian dollars, credit cards world banking systems. TIME Time in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in summer is 8 hours behind Moscow, and in winter - 7 hours.

CLIMATE

The climate is tropical, trade wind, humid. The average monthly temperatures range from 24 to 28 ° C. The average annual precipitation on the southeast coast is 1500 mm, and in the interior mountainous areas- 3750 mm. The hottest and rainiest period is from June to October.

The best time to visit is from November to May.

VISA

For citizens of Russia (subject to stay in the country for no more than 20 days), a visa is not required. Entry documents are issued at the airport or in local authorities authorities upon arrival. For entry you need a passport, hotel reservation and round-trip air ticket.

CUSTOMS

Import and export of national and foreign currencies is not limited. Weapons and drugs, some medicines and non-canned food are prohibited from being imported into the country. It is forbidden to export, without special permission, objects and things of historical and artistic value, especially those found at the bottom of the sea, rare species of corals and products made from them.

AIRPORT TAX

When leaving the country, an airport tax of 12 U$D will be charged.

BEHAVIOR RULES

There is no casino, no cabaret, no trade on the island. Here they deliberately do not use the phone and do not wear a tie.

THE SHOPS

Most shops are open from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. Banks are open from 8.00 to 13.00 on weekdays. A service charge of 10% is usually already added to most bills, no additional surcharges are required.

TRANSPORT

Everything on St. Vincent Island settlements are connected to the capital Kingstown by a network of highways. The total length of the country's roads is approx. 1000 km, a third of them are paved. Basic sea port- Kingstown. Communication between the islands by sea and air.

The content of the article

SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, an island state in the West Indies, located in the southern part of the Windward Islands in the Lesser Antilles group south of Saint Lucia and north of Grenada. It occupies Saint Vincent and the northern part of the Grenadines archipelago. Area - 389 sq. km. The capital is Kingstown with a population of 28 thousand people (2012).

Nature.

Saint Vincent is an island of volcanic origin. Area 344 sq. km. The islands of the Grenadines archipelago are distinguished by their small size, the largest being Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mero and Union. Many of the Grenadines are surrounded by coral reefs. The main part of St. Vincent is occupied by mountains covered with forests. The highest point is the active volcano Soufrière (1234 m). There is a lake in its crater. Soufrière erupted in 1718, 1812, 1902 and 1979. To the south of it is a chain of gradually lowering cones of extinct volcanoes. On the steep western slopes of the mountains, streams run down to the sea, forming picturesque waterfalls and turning into turbulent streams after tropical downpours. The eastern slopes are more gentle; longer, wider and more abundant rivers flow down them. The beaches of the island are covered with black volcanic sand; the exception is the white sandy beaches at the southern tip of the island. The climate is tropical, trade wind, humid. Often there are strong hurricanes. The average monthly temperatures range from 24 to 28° C. The average annual rainfall on the southeastern coast is 1500 mm, and in the interior mountainous regions - 3750 mm. The mountains are covered in places with dense tropical rainforests and shrubs. The fauna of birds is rich (the endangered St. Vincent Amazon parrot, a rare subspecies of the red-throated hermit thrush, etc.). Coastal waters abound with fish, crustaceans and molluscs. Several forest and ornithological reserves operate on the islands for the purpose of nature protection.

Population.

According to the 1991 census, the country's population was 107.6 thousand people. According to 2012 estimates, it decreased to 103,537 thousand people. The birth rate is estimated at 14.36 per 1000 population, the death rate is 7.02 per 1000. The average life expectancy is approx. 74 years old.

Most of the population are descendants of slaves brought from Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. Other racial-ethnic groups are descendants of Europeans, Indians, Carib Indians and mixed groups. Many residents of St. Vincent and the Grenadines have emigrated to the UK, the US and other countries in search of a better life. Caribbean(emigration - approx. 8 people per 1000).

Almost half of the inhabitants of the island belong to the Anglican Church; other believers include Methodists, Catholics, Adventists, and Hindus.

State device.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a constitutional monarchy within the Commonwealth, led by Great Britain. There is a constitution that came into force in 1979, from the moment the country gained independence. Formally, the head of state is the Queen of England, represented by the Governor General. The legislative body is the House of Assembly (unicameral parliament), consisting of 15 elected deputies and 6 senators appointed by the governor general (4 on the recommendation of the prime minister and 2 on the recommendation of the leader of the opposition). The term of the Parliament is 5 years. All citizens who have reached the age of 18 have the right to vote. Executive power is exercised by the government, headed by the prime minister, the leader of the winning political party, who is appointed by the governor general. The government is accountable to the House of Assembly.

The main parties are the United Labor Party and the New Democratic Party. There is also a political coalition, the United People's Movement, which is fighting for the implementation of democratic reforms and the strengthening of national independence. Workers' rights are advocated by the National Workers' Movement, the United Workers' Union and the Workers' Union of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a member of the United Nations and the Organization of American States. From 1958 to 1962 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines were part of the West Indies Federation. The country maintains economic ties with other states of the West Indies, being a member of the Caribbean Community and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States.

Economy.

The leading sectors of the economy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are agriculture and tourism. In the second half of the 1980s, the economic growth rate exceeded 5% per year, in the first half of the 1990s it dropped to 3.5%, and in 1999 it was 4%. The country's economic situation deteriorated after the World Trade Organization opposed a special quota imposed by the EEC on the export of bananas from the West Indies in May 1997.

In 2010, the GDP was $700 million, i.e. approximately 11.7 thousand dollars per capita.

GDP by sectors of the economy: Agriculture– 7.6%, industry– 25.3%, services– 67% (2011 ).

In the country, 22% of the able-bodied population is covered by unemployment.

A quarter of the labor force is employed in agriculture. Mostly crops of export importance are grown - bananas, sugar cane, arrowroot and coconut palm. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the world's largest producer of arrowroot, a starchy root vegetable used in cooking. Tobacco, cassava, coffee and cocoa trees, and vegetables are also cultivated. Animal husbandry is developed on a limited scale. Breed cattle, sheep, goats, pigs. The population is engaged in fishing.

There are small industrial enterprises for the processing of agricultural raw materials (arrowroot, cotton, copra), the production of flour, rum, beer, and dairy products. In addition, there are enterprises producing cement, furniture, clothes, tennis rackets. IN last years there is a reduction in industrial production.

The structure of exports is dominated by bananas, arrowroot flour made from arrowroot rhizomes (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the world's largest exporter of this product), tennis rackets. The main export partners are the countries of the Caribbean Community, Great Britain, and the USA. Food, machinery and equipment, products of the chemical industry, including fertilizers and fuel, are imported into the country. Imports come mainly from the US, the Caribbean Community, and the UK. Imports are much more expensive than exports. The country's economy is largely dependent on foreign aid.

The tourist business is most developed on the island of St. Vincent and the island of Bequia, which are famous for their beaches. Grenadines are popular among wealthy tourists, yacht owners and spearfishers. They are visited annually by approx. 120 thousand tourists.

On the island of St. Vincent, all settlements are connected to the capital Kingstown by a network of highways. The total length of the country's roads is approx. 1000 km, a third of them are paved. The main seaport is Kingstown. The country has a sizable merchant fleet with 825 ships of over 1,000 gross tons each. Vessels from 20 countries sail under the flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Communication between the islands by sea and air. There are 6 airports, the largest of them - Ernos Vale International Airport - is located near Kingstown.

Story.

By the time the Europeans arrived, the Carib Indians lived on the islands. St. Vincent was discovered by Christopher Columbus during his third expedition to the New World on January 28, 1498 on the day of St. Vincent, from where the name of the island came from. For more than two centuries, the Caribs fiercely resisted European colonization. The cannons of the coastal Spanish forts were directed inland, since the Caribs posed a much greater danger to the colonists than external enemies.

During the 17th and 18th centuries St. Vincent alternately passed under the control of France and England. From 1719, the French began to grow coffee, tobacco, indigo and cotton there. African slaves were brought in to work on the plantations. As a result of mixed marriages of runaway and freed slaves with local Indians, a layer of "dark-skinned Caribs" appeared.

The British first took possession of St. Vincent in 1763, and it became a colony of Great Britain under the Treaty of Versailles in 1783. In 1796, the British suppressed an uprising of dark-skinned Caribs and exiled more than 5 thousand rebels to one of the islands off the coast of Honduras. At the beginning of the 19th century In St. Vincent, sugarcane plantations appeared, where slaves worked. After the abolition of slavery in the English colonies (1834), emigrants from India and Portugal were attracted to the islands as labor force.

In 1925, the first legislative council was created on the island; in 1951 universal suffrage was introduced; in 1969 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines received the status of an "associated state" with the right of full internal self-government.

20th and 21st centuries

The country gained full independence on October 27, 1979 in accordance with the constitution drawn up in September 1978 in London.

The islands have a government radio and television service, the National Broadcasting Corporation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Several newspapers and magazines are published in English language. The largest publication is the Vinsension weekly, founded in 1919 (circulation 5,500). The oldest publication is the government newspaper The Government Gazette (founded in 1868). The press organ of the New Democratic Party is The New Times, and the United Labor Party is Unity.

In 1979 the Labor Party, which won the parliamentary elections, formed a government. In 1984, the New Democratic Party won, and its leader, James Mitchell, became Prime Minister. This party won victories in the elections of 1989, 1994, 1998. On February 28, 2001, the Parliament was dissolved. A month later, early parliamentary elections were held, in which the United Labor Party (ULP) won 12 seats, and the New Democratic Party 3. The government was headed and formed by the leader of the ULP, Ralph Gonsalves.

In 2009, an attempt was made to abolish the monarchy and transform the country into a republic. On November 25, 2009, a referendum was held, and changes were planned to be made to the constitution. It was proposed to replace Queen Elizabeth II with a president who would act as head of state. However, 56% voted against (with the required 67%), and the monarchy survived.

In 2010 parliamentary elections were held for the House of Assembly. The left-wing OLP (51.1%) and the center-right New Democratic Party (NDP, 48.6%) received the majority of votes.

Saint Vincent Island (English version - Saint Vincent) - an island located south of and north of (Grenadines) as part of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles archipelago. The name of the island was given by Christopher Columbus in honor of Saint Vincent (Vincent) of Zaragoza.

In the east, the shores of St. Vincent are washed by the waters of the Caribbean Sea, and in the west - by the open Atlantic Ocean. In the northern direction, the island of St. Vincent is divided by the strait of the same name with the island of St. Lucia, and in the south - by the Bequia strait with the Grenadines. The shape of the island of St. Vincent very much resembles a chicken egg, stretching from north to south for about 18 kilometers with an average width of 8-9 kilometers. On St. Vincent, the relief is more mountainous, with an increase in altitude as you move towards the center and north. The highest point on the island is volcanic mountain Sufrirere (La Soufriere), having a height of 1234 meters above sea level. The shores of the island are mostly steep and steep, but there are also flat areas in the form of extensive sandy beaches. The area of St. Vincent Island exceeds 340 square kilometers.

The Arawak tribes first settled the island of St. Vincent around the 10th century. In the 13th-14th centuries, they were forced out by the Carib tribes to other islands of the Lesser Antilles archipelago. The island was discovered by Christopher Columbus during his third expedition to America, it happened on January 28, 1498 on the day of St. Vincent (Vincent) of Zaragoza, which was the reason for the name of the island. Due to the lack of attention to the island from the Spaniards, who still tried to establish a small colony here in 1511, the island was alternately taken over by the French and the British. After the final possession of the island by the British, black slaves from Africa were brought here to work on the plantations. In the middle of 1838, St. Vincent became part of the British colony of the Windward Islands. In 1969, the island of St. Vincent, along with part of the Grenadines, received the status of an "associated state" with a fairly wide autonomy. On October 27, 1979, the independence of the state of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was proclaimed as part of the British Commonwealth.

Currently, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is an independent developing state, basing its economy on tourism, offshore activities and agriculture.

The monetary unit in circulation in the territory of the state of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the East Caribbean dollar (XCD, code 951), consisting of 100 cents.

In St. Vincent, according to the 2010 census, more than 115 thousand people lived. In ethno-racial terms, the overwhelming majority of the population were representatives of the Negroid race (66%). In addition to them, the island is home to many mulattos (about 19%), immigrants from India (almost 6%), whites (slightly less than 4%), Carib Indians (about 2%) and representatives of other nations and nationalities (less than 3%) . The official language on the island of St. Vincent is English, but in everyday speech, the languages \u200b\u200bof Krioli (English is taken as the basis) and Patois (a dialect based on French) are often heard. The largest city in terms of population and size on the island of St. Vincent is the capital of the state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines - Kingstown, located on southwest coast and has a population of approximately 25,000 people.

Numerous tourists and guests of the island can get to St. Vincent both by sea and by air. Three seaports on the island accept cruise ships oceanic type of various class and draft. However, most tourists arrive on the island by plane. In the suburbs of Kingstown, there is an international airport, Kingstown E. T. Joshua Airport, which also accepts aircraft of various classes.

On the island of St. Vincent, according to international organization hoteliers, there are 38 hotels with a class rating of at least three stars. All of them are built on the coast of the island and are beach and hotel complexes. In addition to them, mini hotels also operate on the island, which also accept a certain number of guests, however, such establishments are more remote from the sea, and the road to beaches and other objects is a problem for those living in them. tourism infrastructure islands.

The climate on St. Vincent is classified as a tropical trade wind type. It is characterized by high humidity at sufficiently high air temperatures. Throughout the year, average monthly air temperatures fluctuate slightly and range from +23 to +27 °C. On average, throughout the year, the amount of tropical rainfall is approximately 2500 millimeters. The largest number precipitation falls from late May to late November. The wettest month of the year in St. Vincent is July. During this period, strong cyclones are also most likely. The driest period on the island falls on the beginning of December - the end of May. April is the driest month.

Numerous tourists from European and American continents go to the island of St. Vincent for the most part for a beach holiday. Here are some of the most exquisite and beautiful beaches of the Caribbean with black and white volcanic sands that are washed by clearest waters both the Caribbean Sea and the open Atlantic. There are always a lot of divers and snorkelers on the beaches of St. Vincent. During the dives, they explore the coastal waters of the island, where entire coral forests grow and a huge number of sunken ships of various kinds rest on the seabed. historical eras and nations.

Apart from the beaches and beach holiday, the attention of tourists is undoubtedly attracted by the fabulous and unique nature of the island of St. Vincent, where tropical rainforests grow. IN Lately eco-tours and trekking tours to the central and northern part of the island, as well as to the foot of the volcanic mountains, are extremely popular with visitors.

For lovers of sights in St. Vincent, you can visit the old fortress-fort, which the French began to build, museums of the history of the island and the Caribbean, the oldest Anglican cathedral on the island in Keynestown, as well as a reconstructed village of Caribbean Indians near Georgetown. Interest among tourists will also be caused by the most interesting architecture of buildings in almost all the towns of the island.

Basic moments

Saint Vincent is a mountainous island of volcanic origin. The chain of old volcanoes, gradually lowering, stretches from north to south. The climate of the island is tropical, trade wind. The average monthly temperature is 26 °C. The dry season lasts from December to April. 70% of precipitation falls from May to November. The entire central part of the main island is covered with forest. On St. Vincent, as on other islands, there are many beautiful bays and white beaches lined with palm trees. combination of coral reefs and clear water is an ideal condition for spearfishing. Some of the islands are privately owned.

The main economic center of the state is the capital of Kingstown (40 thousand inhabitants). There is a botanical garden founded more than 200 years ago. This is also important Finance center, where many banks attracted by tax incentives are located. Agriculture specializes in the production of bananas, coconuts and arrowroot (starch flour from arrowroot rhizomes).

Nature

Saint Vincent is an island of volcanic origin. The area is 344 km². The islands of the Grenadines archipelago are distinguished by their small size, the largest being Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mero and Union. Many of the Grenadines are surrounded by coral reefs. The main part of St. Vincent is occupied by mountains covered with forests. The highest point is the active volcano Soufrière (1234 m). There is a lake in its crater. Soufrière erupted in 1718, 1812, 1902 and 1979. To the south of it is a chain of gradually lowering cones of extinct volcanoes. On the steep western slopes of the mountains, streams run down to the sea, forming picturesque waterfalls and turning into turbulent streams after tropical downpours. The eastern slopes are more gentle; longer, wider and more abundant rivers flow down them. The beaches of the island are covered with black volcanic sand; the exception is the white sandy beaches at the southern tip of the island. The climate is tropical, trade wind, humid. There are often strong hurricanes. The average monthly temperatures range from 24 to 28° C. The average annual rainfall on the southeastern coast is 1500 mm, and in the interior mountainous regions - 3750 mm. The mountains are covered in places with dense tropical rainforests and shrubs. The fauna of birds is rich (the endangered St. Vincent Amazon parrot, a rare subspecies of the red-throated hermit thrush, etc.). Coastal waters abound with fish, crustaceans and molluscs. Several forest and ornithological reserves operate on the islands for the purpose of nature protection.

Attractions

The largest city of the state is its capital, Kingstown. The city is located in the harbor on the southwestern tip of the island of St. Vincent. Since Kingstown was under British rule for a long time, its architecture is dominated by the colonial style. There are several old churches in the city: St. Mary's, St. George's and the Kingstown Methodist Church. There is also a botanical garden in Kingstown. This is a nursery founded in 1762, where plants are collected from all over the world. The complex is the oldest in the entire Western Hemisphere. In its exposition there are more than 450 species of tropical plants. In addition, there is an aviary for birds, including the endangered species of parrot - the Amazon.

To the north of Kingstown are the ruins of Fort Charlotte, which was built in 1806 to guard the city and harbor. Currently, the Museum of the History of the Black Caribs is located here.

Hikers can take a walk along nature trail Bookument-Vermont-Nature-Trail, during which the opportunity to wander around tropical forests and watch the birds. On west bank St. Vincent Islands are home to the beautiful Balein Falls.

Kitchen

The cuisine of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is based on seafood. The main recipe of many menus here is grilled fish. Shellfish, shrimp, lobsters are used in cooking, as well as three-three fish, which is a local delicacy. It is prepared in a variety of ways, but always with curry and spices. In addition to seafood local cuisine the fruits of vegetables and fruits are used: sweet potatoes, arrowroot, bananas, coconuts, breadfruit.

Cassava tubers are also popular in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. They are added to meat or fish, and “choki” cakes are also prepared, after crushing and squeezing poisonous juice through a cloth. From drinks, tea, coffee, cocoa, various juices are common. The islands produce rum, which is the basis of most cocktails, and also brew beer.

Accommodation

Holidays in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are considered elite. Mostly on the islands there are four-star and five-star hotels.

Kingstown has an excellent five-star Buccament Bay Resort, which claims to be the most luxury resort on the island. The hotel has a football school and tennis academy, a private beach, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, a golf course, a kids' club and a spa. The cost of living starts from $ 1000 per day.

Another luxury hotel complex, Ruffles Resort, is located on Canouan Island. The hotel has both suites and luxurious villas with ocean views. The complex has a large number of restaurants and bars, excellent beaches, swimming pools. The hotel offers special programs for honeymooners.

The Cotton House hotel complex is located on Mustique Island, which is 28 kilometers from St. Vincent Island. The only way to get here is by sea. Near the modern buildings on Mustique Island, restored buildings from the colonial era adjoin. The hotel has a spa, tennis courts and restaurants. The complex also offers a wide range of aquatic species sports.

Of the cheaper hotels, the three-star Palm Island Resort, located on Palm Island, can be noted. There are spa and fitness centers, an outdoor pool. In addition, the hotel provides wedding services. There is also the opportunity to use the services of a babysitter if you are going to rest with a child.

Entertainment and recreation

New Year's Day in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is celebrated on January 1st. In the same month, on January 22, the state celebrates Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Day. However, the main event of the year is the Carnival. It runs from the last week of June to the end of the first week of July. The holiday includes a marathon of music, costume processions and numerous dance competitions. On the eve of Christmas, the Nine Days Festival takes place, which lasts from December 16 to 24. During the festival, sports competitions and dance competitions are held.

Nightlife on the islands is not too vibrant. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is more suitable for a calm, measured and secluded holiday. However, this does not mean that there is absolutely nothing to do here. There are many options on the islands. active rest. For example, quiet coves islands attract diving enthusiasts. There are special schools that teach diving to beginners. Windsurfing and yachting are also very popular.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the perfect place for a beach holiday. All islands have beaches white sand, and in the east of St. Vincent you can see black sand beaches.

shopping

On weekdays, stores in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are open to shoppers from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm with a lunch break from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. On Saturday and Sunday, shops and shops are open on a reduced schedule from 8:00 to 12:00. Most often, tourists buy as souvenirs various crafts made from shells, corals, which are made and sold by the local population. In addition, no traveler leaves Saint Vincent and the Grenadines without a bottle of locally produced rum.

Transport

The largest seaport is located in Kingstown. Ernos Vale International Airport is located near the capital. In addition to it, there are 5 more airports on the islands.

There is no rail link in the country. Movement is carried out mainly by cars. The total length of roads in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is 1,000 kilometers. Hard coating has only a third of them. Tourists can rent a car. To do this, you must have driver's license international standard. You can also use taxi services.

Connection

Telephone communication in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is well developed. Payphones are installed almost everywhere, from which you can call not only within the country, but also to other parts of the world. Payment for calls from payphones of old models is made using special coins, on new devices - with the help of special cards that can be bought in supermarkets, newsstands and even pharmacies. mobile connection is also well developed, the coverage area covers almost all the islands of the state. Interruptions in communication can only be observed in the maritime space separating the islands and in the mountainous area in the north of St. Vincent. Internet services on the islands are developing rapidly. Internet cafes can be found on the streets of Kingstown.

Safety

The crime rate in the country is quite low, but there are frequent pickpockets. Basically, "pickpockets" operate in crowded places - in ports, airports, public institutions.

You should not carry large sums of money, jewelry. For the safety of property of tourists in all hotels there are safes. No special vaccinations are required before visiting the country.

Business

Local laws enable businessmen to open enterprises in the country with absolutely any organizational and legal form, but in practice, foreign investors most often use two organizational and legal forms - offshore trusts and international business companies. The registration procedure is reduced to the provision of the constituent agreement and the charter to the Registration Chamber, as well as the simultaneous payment of the state fee. Registration is carried out within a day. Also in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, you can buy a ready-made and operating business.

Real estate

Due to the growing popularity of the resorts of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the demand for the purchase of real estate on the islands is also growing.

However, potential buyers face a number of protective measures introduced by the state due to the small size of the territory. So, to buy real estate, Foreign citizens first they must obtain a special permit and pay some fees.

The most popular types of real estate are villas located on the coast. The cost of such villas starts from $ 200,000. Apartments are less popular, but there is also a demand for them. Most of the apartments are rented out.

Although people go to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines for a beach holiday, you should remember the rules of conduct in public places. Outside the hotel in a bathing suit is considered unacceptable here. Moreover, in this form you are unlikely to be allowed into a good restaurant. Restaurants and hotels automatically include a government tax of 7% and a service surcharge of 10% on the bill, so it is up to each tourist to leave a tip or not.

Visa Information

For Russian citizens, a visa is issued upon arrival at the airport building or immediately after arrival at the local government. To obtain a visa, you need to provide a passport, an air ticket (the ticket must be both ways, otherwise the visa will simply not be issued), for children under 18 years of age and traveling with one of the parents, you must have a notarized power of attorney from the second parent, a passport for the child, if the child from 14 years old. For children under 6 years old, inscribed in the parents' passport, a photograph is attached.

Embassies Russian Federation not in the country.

Story

The country gained full independence on October 27, 1979 in accordance with the constitution drawn up in September 1978 in London. In 1979 the Labor Party, which won the parliamentary elections, formed a government. In 1984, the New Democratic Party won, and its leader, James Mitchell, became Prime Minister. This party won victories in the elections of 1989, 1994, 1998. On February 28, 2001, the Parliament was dissolved. A month later, early parliamentary elections were held, in which the United Labor Party (ULP) won 12 seats, and the New Democratic Party 3. The government was headed and formed by the leader of the ULP, Ralph Gonsalves.

The islands have a government radio and television service, the National Broadcasting Corporation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Several newspapers and magazines are published in English. The largest publication is the Vinsension weekly, founded in 1919 (circulation 5,500). The oldest publication is the government newspaper The Government Gazette (founded in 1868). The press organ of the New Democratic Party is The New Times, and the United Labor Party is Unity.