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Carnival is not the only reason to go to Trinidad & Tobago but it is certainly a very good one. Anyone who has ever visited these jewels of the Caribbean could not deny its beauty. It is lush with green vegetation, magnificent foliage and wonderful wildlife. In fact, original natives of the land, the Amerindians referred to the island as “Lere”, meaning the land of the hummingbirds.
During carnival season, there is a natural high throughout Trinidad. Although it officially only lasts two days from J’Ouvert (sunrise) to midnight following day, the activities are enjoyed at least two weeks earlier. The island is a alive with calypso, soca, steel-pan music, colour and elaborate costumes which is judged as people play mas’ (short for masquerade).
Attractions
Sights to see in Trinidad include a circle around Savannah, which the natives claim is the world’s biggest roundabout, a day’s retreat in the Royal Botanical Gardens, or escape to the National Park and bird sanctuary, where the scarlet ibis, the national bird, flies to roost. For culture, seek out the National Museum and Art Gallery at the very top of Frederick Street which shows the history of Trinidad.
The capital, Port-of-Spain bursts with shops and entertainment including a wide variety of restaurants, pubs and clubs to suit all tastes reflecting the melting pot of nationalities that live there. And of course, an outlet for the local Carib brew or rum is never far away.
Make sure to try the popular roti – a pancake wrapped around a filling of meat and/ or vegetables, including chicken or potato. The fresh fish is a must and one of the most satisfying snacks is the shark bake, a slab of shark served in a dough base or bread roll.
Although Trinidad does have some stunning seafronts, including Maracas and Las Cuevas beaches on the northern coastline, it is Tobago that steals the show.
Tobago
Tobago is in contrast to the hustle and bustle of Trinidad. The sister island is everything you want from a Caribbean paradise with crystal clear waters, white foamed crashing waves, swaying palm trees and the intoxicating smell of flora. The choice of beaches is countless. Even in the unassuming capital of Scarborough you are never far from the sound of the sea.
Visit Charlottesville, one of the prettiest villages in the world, with its coloured roof tops huddled around the seashore.
Alternatively, enjoy a trip from Store Bay around Pigeon Point, take a glass bottom boat to see the spectacular Buccoo coral reef and swim in the Nylon Pool, a shallow spot in the middle of the sea which is so unpolluted you could probably see a pin drop.
There are many watersports facilities available in Tobago, with supervised scuba-diving and waterskiing tuition available from the major hotels along the beach.
Getting Around
Travelling around Trinidad and Tobago is easy once you get the hang of it. Pick up a taxi, registration H for hire, or jump in a maxi-taxi, a larger car or van which picks up people en route.
Buses are available, although usually busy and tickets must be bought prior to travel from the bus station or certain hotels. However you may want to go it alone and pay for a rental car or scooter, but this is not recommended, especially in Trinidad, unless you are an assertive driver and are accustomed hectic traffic.
Accommodation
Accommodation varies from reasonable to expensive, but in comparison to the rest of the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago are kind to the tourist pocket. The top hotel, The Trinidadian Hilton, which has some of the most spectacular views of the city is obviously highly priced.
In comparison clean, simple but hospitable service is offered in guest houses such as The Halyconia Inn, St Anne’s, La Maison Rustique in Woodbrook or La Calypso on French St. All are ideally situated for Port Of Spain in Trinidad.
In Tobago quality hotels include Turtle Beach, Grafton Beach Resort and Mount Ivrine Bay Hotel– all top of the range of prices. If you prefer to hire a villa or B&B provisions contact in Tobago Division of Tourism.
And do not forget to check out Airbnb for more choice, at less expense. Choose from guest rooms to renting out a whole villa.
When To Go
Flights are more expensive during Britain’s summer season, but rates are more expensive during Trinidad and Tobago’s dry season, November – May.
