Currency:

East Caribbean dollar (XCD)

When to go:

December-April

Known for:

Bananas, filming of Pirates of the Caribbean movies

Languages:

English, Vincentian Creole

With busy beaches and tourists dominating the landscape of many Caribbean nations, the islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines remain blissfully free of overcrowding, with a population around 120,000 and less than 160,000 arrivals annually. Although development has been hindered by tropical storms, an active volcano and unemployment, the beaches are fantastic and the upscale resorts are stunning. This is a perfect romantic getaway for anyone seeking privacy and seclusion.

The updated but out-of-style official tourism website offers more information on the islands at www.svgtourism.com.