Trinidad -Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago is one country but a combination of two cultures. Trinidad Island is larger and more suitable for nightlife, sightseeing and much more busy. Tobago is a carrier of old Caribbean culture and knows how to really slow it down. Tobago is far the smallest of the two islands.
Tobago has two coastlines, the Caribbean coastline and the rugged Atlantic coastline. The Caribbean coast is perfect for diving and snorkelling and there is a Bioluminescent Bay where you can kayak at night amongst the glowing organisms. Pigeon Point Heritage Park has an award-winning beach near the famous coral Buccoo Reef with an entry fee of TT$ 20.
The Atlantic side has more historic places of interest with The Old Court House, Fort Granby, and Fort King George. Visit Roxborough for colonial architecture and Tobago Cocoa Estate, and Arnos Vale Waterwheel, the site of a sugar factory with ruins of an old British sugar mill. There are plenty of waterfalls to discover with Argyle being the highest at 54m.
Scarborough, Tobago’s sizzling capital. A flourishing town, brimming with vibrancy, where tourism and local culture live in harmony. Considering its small size there’s loads of things to keep you busy here. Central Scarborough. Home to the popular market, NIB Mall and port there’s a friendly and absorbing scene with a mix of locals and tourists. Perfect for bargains, chats with the stall holders and a way to get an idea of authentic Tobago living. Fort King George is a fort built way back in 1781 complete with cannons, barracks, and artefacts; it’s the largest of its kind in Tobago. Explore the museum and learn all about life in the times it was built among other fascinating tit-bits about the location.
Tobago is known world-wide for chocolate! Tobago have been in the cocoa industry since the 17th century. The cacao farming is doing very well thanks to Tobago Cocoa Estate. There are now eleven different strains of cacao beans produced in the area, all with a rich, gorgeous taste.The Estate’s tour give you a good look back on Tobago’s past through the lens of this industry, as well as a tour of their own facilities where you can se the production which use modern eco-friendly cultivation practices. A rum and chocolate tasting is offered at the end of each tour.
Among the numerous of beautiful waterfalls around the island Argyle Waterfalls are the most popular – and the highest. Hidden deep in the jungle, you’ll have to take a 15 to 20-minute walk along a forest trail to get to the falls. The falls are made up of three cascading tiers, with a refreshing pool at the base of the falls where you can cool off after your hike. The path is straightforward enough, although those interested in learning more about the site and the local flora may wish to pick up a guide at the entrance. The pool here is one of the largest and deepest on the island — perfect for swimming.
Main Ridge Forest Reserve is fames as the oldest protected rain forest in the western hemisphere. It sure is a fantastic and stunning place with a rich bird and animal life.
Tobago is wellknown for the many beautiful beaches with white sand and palm trees. I will only descibe some of them.
Pigeon Point is the most traditionally Caribbean of them all, with powdery white sands and calm turquoise sea, all lined by swaying palm trees. The beach is located within the 125-acre nature reserve of Pigeon Point Heritage Park. Pigeon Point is one of the most photographed places at Tobago.
Englishman beach is a picturesque secluded beach which is among Tobago’s most beautiful beach. It can be a bit difficult finding the beach but it is located between Castara and Parletuvier about 1. 5 km past Castara. The beach is not visible from the road so keep an eye for a blue and white sign indicating a left turn. Follow the unpaved road to the end and there you will find the classic crescent shaped beach nestled between the thick tropical rainforest and the clear blue Caribbean Sea. The destination is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and camping. It is a nesting ground for the leatherback turtle and is a popular mooring spot for yachts.
Pirate’s Bay is a beautiful hidden spot located near Charlotteville on the north-eastern part of Tobago Island. Getting to the beach itself is not very easy, as you need to walk for a while. Down the stairs with a lot more than 100 steps you finally get to the incredible beach. The easy way to get there is by asking a fisherman in Man of War Bay to take you by boat. The crystal clear water with several sailboats moored is of a unique beauty and a fantastic snorkeling site. The sunset came to flood the bay with an unbelievably dazzling light.
Castara is a small fishing community on the Leeward side of the island. Just above the community there is a lookout point with one of the most breathtaking views Tobago has to offer. It is known for its beaches Big Bay and Little Bay, also known as Heavenly bay. The beaches are shaded with numerous palms and coconut trees, the clear and and waters are great for snorkelling especially off to the Northern side. The fishing boats all lined off are a sight to see and there is always some friendly chatter from the fishermen nearby as they bring in their nets.
Tobago is a paradise for diving and snorkelling. Buccoo Coral Reef, is set off the southwestern tip of the island. It is a protected marine park with colourful coral and exotic marine life, and is made up by five reef flats. World-famous oceanographer and explorer, Jacques Cousteau, even named it the third most spectacular reef in the world. The reef is the largest in the country and is home to a diverse fauna. Divers and snorkelers can see many species of corals and colorful fishes. Turtles also frequent the reef and are often seen leisurely swimming amongst the corals.
