Several Caribbean islands do not fit into the usual pattern of sun, sand, and shopping. St. Vincent is one of these - with relatively few attractive beaches (none to compare with neighboring islands), but with beautiful and exciting scenery and natural features, it is an island to be explored.

Far down in the south of the Caribbean chain, St. Vincent has been popular with sailors, who have enjoyed its many small coves for years. But until recently, it has been rather isolated - new flights have changed that, but flying times are still substantial.

From sailing to dolphin watching, to hiking trails and swimming in waterfall pools; from climbing to the top of the 4000 foot volcano, to exploring the underwater gardens, St. Vincent offers something for everyone. Numerous local tour operators offer excursions with insight.

St Vincent claims a tumultuous history, with wars and volcanic eruptions featuring large. A long-time cultural connection with the Garifunas of Belize and Honduras is finally being recognized.

St. Vincent offers small, pleasant, comfortable local hotels and resorts, some coastal, others in the hills. Nearby to St. Vincent is the chain of small islands called the Grenadines, with several popular private island resorts, such as Young Island and Palm Island.

Several of the Grenadine Islands offer more resort options - Mustique has world class villas and The Cotton House hotel, and Canouan has the Raffles Resort, a world-class property with its own 18-hole golf course.

Not To Be Missed - St. Vincent Blues Festival is the only one of its kind in the entire Caribbean - March 7-9, 2008. And for St. Vincent's version of Carnival, visit between July 7-8, 2008.