BequiaBequia, which is part of St Vincent and the Grenadines, lies just nine miles to the south of St. Vincent. A compact seven square miles, she is the largest of the 32 Grenadine islands, which also includes island paradises such as Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau and the Tobago Cays. Her history has been deeply entwined with the sea for generations and the age-old traditions of boat-building, fishing and whaling are still evident. Bequia has all the ingredients for a wonderful holiday: stunning beaches, beautiful walks, interesting places to explore, and excellent and varied restaurants  |
ClimateDaytime temperatures consistently average between 24C (75F) and 30C (86F) throughout the year. A chilly evening in the winter months (January to March) might see a low of around 21C (70F) and in the summer months the temperature will occasionally reach 32C (90F). The dry season from December/January to late April/early May coincides with the high season for visitors, with clear sunny skies, good sailing breezes, low humidity and minimal rainfall. The island is totally reliant on rain for its water, so the arrival of the rainy season in May/June is always a blessing. The warmer, summer months of May to November are a welcome mixture of cooling showers, sunshine and light breezes, with the occasional heavy downpour. Bequia is far south in the hurricane belt, and although tropical storms will occasionally approach in the peak months of August to October, most disturbances either pass to the north or dissipate before they reach the Grenadines chain. How you get thereFor many years Bequia could only be reached by sea (and as such became and continues to be a favourite destination for yachtsmen from around the world). Vessels of all shapes and sizes fill the harbour, from luxury yachts and motorised boats to old wooden schooners and (very) small cruise ships. In 1992, the island's J. F. Mitchell Airport opened and has made the island far more accessible, with regular connections from the mainland. The quickest and most common way to arrive in Bequia is by scheduled or charter flight from Barbados or St. Lucia. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and costs about £160 return. In addition it is also possible to fly to St Vincent from Barbados or St. Lucia and to catch the ferry to Bequia (ferry time approximately 45 mins). This has the advantage not only of being cheaper(approx £100 return) but also provides an opportunity to combine your traveling with a visit to this interesting island (see things to do while in Bequia). MoneyLocal currency is the EC ("EE SEE") dollar which is tied to the US dollar at approximately US$1 to EC$2.67. Most businesses on Bequia (including taxis)will accept US$ (normally at EC$2.60), and you may find small denomination US$ notes useful. US$ rather than sterling travellers cheques are recommended. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants and boutiques, but smaller businesses may ask for EC$ or US$ cash. ATM machines are available at both banks on the island. ^^to top of page |