Jackie David tests out the diving, wildlife and street parties on the twin Caribbean islands Trinidad and Tobago
Separated geographically by just 21 miles, the oil-rich islands of Trinidad and Tobago comprise the richest nation in the Caribbean both fiscally and – the locals would argue – culturally.
Trinidad and its sleepier sister Tobago share a passion for music and carnival and boast idyllic white sandy beaches, a wealth of wildlife and folklore.
Add to that a fantastic climate and Trinbago, as the islands are collectively known, offers both business visitors and tourists an authentic taste of the Caribbean alongside the pleasures and convenience of an increasingly sophisticated, ambitious and industrialised nation.
Nova Alexander, manager of the UK and Ireland at the Tourism Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago, says agents have particular success selling Trinbago to customers that have previously visited the Caribbean but are looking for something different.
A key focus is niche tourism groups, such as bird watchers, divers and foodies. “In addition, in 2009 we will be actively promoting all areas of sports tourism by hosting the inaugural Caribbean games and England v West Indies cricket tour,” she added.
Although the islands’ first language is English, visitors will soon become aware that the country is all the richer for its own lingo. Locals ‘lime’ – hang out and relax with friends – and wine – move their hips and legs in time to the Calypso and soca music, which is at the heart of this multicultural society.
Goat Island
Tobago is surrounded by tiny beautiful islands, which are ideal as bases from which to view the stunning aquatic wildlife. Goat Island, situated between Speyside and Little Tobago, was once owned by James Bond author Ian Fleming. It now provides luxury holiday accommodation.
Wildlife and ecotourism
Trinidad and Tobago is also growing as a destination for ecotourism. Bursting with bio-diversity, there is plenty for the hardcore naturalist and conservationist to enjoy as the islands are home to more than 450 species of birds, 108 mammals, 55 reptiles, 25 amphibians and 620 types of butterflies.
Within easy reach of the capital, Port of Spain, beaches and perfectly preserved conservation areas such as the Asa Wright Nature Centre and Lodge are must-see destinations that are home to rare birds, lizards and other exotic flora and fauna.
Asphalt Lake
Sir Walter Raleigh stumbled across the Asphalt Lake, a local natural wonder in the southwest peninsula of Trinidad, in the 1590s. Since then, millions of tonnes of the asphalt have been used for everything from shipbuilding to road surfacing.
Carnival
Full-on involvement in Carnival is not for the faint-hearted. The run-up to the main event includes music competitions, mini festivals and a kids’ carnival.
Visitors can be simple spectators but, for a fuller flavour, holidaymakers can join a band and immerse themselves in a programme of activities that includes J’Ouvert – French patois for opening day.
This starts on the Sunday preceding carnival and involves participants coating themselves in chocolate and paint and dancing the night away until the sun rises. The atmosphere reaches fever pitch – but the excitement is always good-natured.
Getting around
Travel between the islands on Caribbean Airlines ’ air bridge takes just 25 minutes and costs approximately £20 return per person.
Alternatively take the inter-island ferry, which costs from as little as £8 return per person. Check out Port of Port of Spain website for sailing schedules, ticket outlets and fares.
Local guides such as In Joy Tours offer sightseeing and cultural tours, as well packages for Carnival.
