In association with: Tobago Tourism Agency
Discover what makes this untouched Caribbean island so special
When picturing an idyllic Caribbean scene, pristine beaches bathed in sunshine and lapped by crystal-clear waters might spring to mind.
In Tobago, a scene like this isn’t hard to find – but the unspoilt island’s charm isn’t limited to just the beach. Rich heritage, friendly locals and a vibrant culture are all pillars of this Caribbean gem and help to ensure that a getaway to Tobago is anything but ordinary.
Visitors will enjoy the warm welcome extended by residents, who are deeply passionate about the island and have fiercely protected its rustic charm over the years. It’s this charm that makes Tobago the perfect destination for clients seeking a sun-soaked escape and the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Sustainable shores
Three of Tobago’s beaches – King’s Bay, Bloody Bay and Mt Irvine Bay – have been awarded Blue Flag pilot status, a symbol of cleanliness, safety and environmental responsibility.
Tobago is the only island in the Lesser Antilles to have received such approval, which symbolises the island’s continued support of beachside communities and marine wildlife conservation, making it perfect for eco-conscious travellers.
For clients who want to venture beyond the shoreline, there are plenty of watersports that showcase the full beauty of Tobago’s coast. Snorkelling and scuba diving bring visitors up-close with the island’s rainbow of marine life, which includes everything from seahorses to leatherback turtles.
For slower-paced exploration, visitors can take to the water on a stand-up paddleboard, a glass-bottomed kayak or a sightseeing catamaran.
Walk on the wild side
Tobago’s rich array of wildlife stretches inland too, with so much for keen-eyed
The Unesco-listed Main Ridge Forest Reserve encompasses 9,780 acres of tropical rainforest and, beneath this emerald blanket, many of the island’s 260 bird species can be found.
The sabrewing hummingbird, characterised by its blue neck and white tail, is one of the most distinctive, while Tobago’s national bird, the cocrico, can be spotted by its pheasant‑like appearance and loud call.
Throughout the reserve, which is the western hemisphere’s oldest legally protected forest, there’s a network of walking trails that wind through the palms. There are also waterfalls, mangroves and secluded beaches across the island to explore and admire. explorers to look out for.
Taste the culture
Besides exploring Tobago’s natural side, there’s a lot more to do – like discovering the island’s vibrant culinary scene.
Steeped in tradition and influenced by African, Indian and European cooking, Tobago’s food offering is an important part of any visit. The local speciality of curried crab and dumplings is not to be missed, while the traditional method of baking food outside in a dirt oven offers an authentic taste of Tobagonian heritage – everything from pumpkin breads to coconut tarts can be baked in this way.
Across the island, casual beachfront eateries and elevated dining restaurants serve up hearty Caribbean flavours, with fresh seafood, tropical fruits and root vegetables tania and dasheen being just a few menu staples.
Find out more
For more inspiration visit tobagobeyond.com, or head to the dedicated Tobago Hub at travelweekly.co.uk/tobagohub
The Tobago way
Here are three unmissable activities to ensure your clients get a real taste of the Tobagonian lifestyle.
Liming
The local term for relaxing and hanging out with friends, embodying the island’s laidback culture.
Sunday School
Tobago’s Sunday School is a vibrant party that commandeers the streets every Sunday evening. Stalls serve barbecue food and local rums, while the sounds of steel bands, hip-hop and RnB fill the air.
Castara Bonfire
Every Thursday night, the small village of Castara comes alive with a lively party that centres around beachfront bonfires. Steel pan music, live DJs and the relaxed atmosphere make this event popular with tourists and locals alike.
One flight away
For clients who want to book a winter‑sun escape to this undiscovered gem, British Airways flies direct twice a week. The services depart Gatwick and take around 11 hours, including a short stop in Saint Lucia. In the summer, this is reduced to one direct service per week.
PICTURES: Tobago Tourism Agency; Jad Davenport