“How could you leave big big Jamaica and go and live in one of those small islands?” Grenada, the small island I chose, measures just 12 miles west to east and 21 miles north to south. In 1997, this Jamaican added to Grenada’s population of approximately one hundred or so thousand people at the time. Originally intending to spend two years then move on, 18 years later, Grenada is still captivating and feels like home.

Here are five reasons why I think living in Grenada is great.

1. Almost no crime – Safe haven for peace-loving souls

Picture this: an island where crime rates are so low that people often misplace their house keys because they haven’t needed them in years. That’s the reality of living in Grenada! Forget about those crime-filled headlines; Grenada is a sanctuary of tranquility. While petty theft exists like in any other place, serious crimes are a rarity. So, bid farewell to worries and embrace the freedom to walk home late at night without a second thought.

When Grenada had 18 murders in 2008, a few eyebrows were raised. Normal annual homicide statistics are usually between 8 and 12. In fact, during 2004 when Hurricane Ivan hit, only 6 persons lost their lives by murder.