Pool view at the Turtle Beach Tobago

Tobago is the smaller brother of the better known Trinidad. This island retreat is considered to be the last untouched location in the Caribbean. It is special in that there are no towering hotels or commercialised centres. When taking a holiday in Trinidad you will be reminded of what is truly important in life. The people are kind and friendly and nature is always put before money.

Beaches

The beaches in Trinidad are truly untouched and are largely lined with palm trees or rainforest. Most of the beaches have few facilities if any. This means that your holiday will be blessed with tranquillity but that you should probably pack a cooler before you head out for a day in paradise. Many of the beaches are the work environments for local fishermen who are kind, friendly and respectful of tourists. Some have small craft markets though the residents aren't hardened businessmen and will not bother you and pressurise you to buy their goods. Unspoilt locations include Canoe beach, Charlotteville, Man O War Bay, Castara and Englishman's Bay. Mount Irvine beach is based by the understated Mount Irvine hotel and you can therefore make use of the hotel's facilities and the water sports shack for a small fee. Store Bay is one of the more commercialised locations and offers showers, toilets and bars.

On and in the water

Some locations offer water sports and include the opportunity to explore the clear waters by diving, snorkelling, sailing and kayaking. Fishing charters offer deep sea experiences and the chance of catching a marlin, swordfish, sailfish and other big game fish. Though the fishing in Trinidad is good all year round, those seeking a truly rewarding fishing holiday should visit from October through to June when the fishing season is in full swing. You can also hire a catamaran and cruise the seas or observe the wondrous beauty of the underwater world from a glass bottom boat.

Food and Cuisine

Meals in Tobago often consist of fresh fish and include the addition of tropical fruit with generous helpings of coconut milk. Local feasts are cheap and your holiday funds would not nearly be depleted if you chose to eat at a more traditional location. Obviously international cuisine is a little more expensive. The local beef in Trinidad is delicious too and can be enjoyed at some of the local steakhouses as well as the hotel restaurants. Roti is a take away tortilla filled with a thick chick pea curry. This meal is definitely the best value for money in Trinidad and can have the addition of chicken, beef, goat or lobster. Crabs are very popular too and are cooked and served whole with dumplings.