Union Island is the furthest of the main inhabited islands from St. Vincent. Viewed from a boat sailing south through the Grenadine chain, Union has a striking silhouette, with a volcanic peak, Mount Parnassus rising 300 metres above a coastline of long white sand beaches and small coves.
The vegetation covering the steep slopes and valleys of the interior are more arid than St Vincent, but with each corner turned, its hiking trails still provide spectacular views.
The main community, Clifton, has a busy port, regularly serviced by the ferry to St. Vincent, yachts and fishing boats. It also has several locally run restaurants, shops and a market green.
"When you come to Union Island you should come with an open mind. Just friendly thoughts and you will meet friendly people."
Adelaide Susanna Allen
It is Union's distance from "the mainland" that has given it much of its character. Unionites are deeply proud of their island, almost to the point of considering it an independent country. Their relative isolation has also fostered a strong sense of community.
Being removed from the centre of Colonial government in Kingstown meant that the island suffered less from the dominance of British influence and the indigenous culture of the African slaves that were brought to Union had more chance to survive here than elsewhere in the Grenadines.
This is still apparent today. Culturally, Union retains a strong link to West Africa. There is an active island community group, "Roots Connection" which preserves song, dance and tradition including an annual celebration in May of thanksgiving for the harvest, the "Maroon".
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