Practical logistics for someone travelling with a purpose — assessing the island, viewing property, meeting advisers — rather than for a beach holiday.
Getting there
- One international airport in the southwest, close to the main hotel strip
- Direct services from selected North American cities and the United Kingdom, with seasonal variation
- Regional connections through Caribbean hubs, notably Barbados and Trinidad
- From most of the world, expect at least one connection, and from Asia at least two
Practical scheduling note: regional connections can be tight and unreliable. Where possible allow a buffer rather than booking the minimum legal connection time.
Entry
Many nationalities enter visa-free for short visits; others require a visa. Requirements typically include a valid passport, onward or return ticket and accommodation details. Check your own nationality against the official requirements rather than assuming, and note that requirements are occasionally updated.
Getting around
- Taxis — fares are by route rather than metered; agree before departing. Fixed rates from the airport are published
- Minibuses — very cheap, frequent on main routes, stop relatively early in the evening. A genuine experience and perfectly usable
- Car hire — the practical choice if viewing property or exploring; requires a temporary local permit, obtainable through the rental company
- Ferry — to Carriacou; the crossing can be rough
Driving notes: on the left, narrow roads, steep gradients, tight bends and frequent pedestrians. Journey times are considerably longer than distances suggest, and driving after dark on unfamiliar rural roads is not advisable.
Where to base yourself
The southwest for convenience — close to the airport, the main beach, the capital and most services. The capital itself if the purpose is administrative meetings. Elsewhere only if the trip is specifically about that area.
What to arrange in advance
- Meetings with advisers — lawyers and accountants have limited availability on a small island
- Property viewings — arrange through an agent before arriving
- Car hire in peak season
- Ferry or flights to the sister islands
Practical details
Currency — Eastern Caribbean dollars; US dollars accepted at a customary rate, with change in local currency. Cards work in the southwest, cash is needed elsewhere. Plugs follow the British standard. Tipping — a service charge is often added; check before adding more. Water is treated and generally fine in developed areas.
Frequently asked questions
How many connections should you expect?
At least one from most of the world and at least two from Asia — and allow a buffer, since regional connections can be unreliable.
Is a local driving permit required?
Yes — a temporary permit, obtainable through the rental company, and driving is on the left.
What should be arranged before arriving?
Meetings with lawyers and accountants — availability is limited on a small island.
Are cards accepted everywhere?
In the southwest yes; elsewhere cash is needed.
Need a tailored roadmap?
Viking Global Group walks with you from paperwork to settlement. Call +849.219.219.88 or email [email protected] for a free consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Information is for reference and may change under the latest official policy. Please contact us for current regulations.
