Tobago Beaches

by Dave Jackson

Tobago is quite small, only about thirty miles by ten, with a ridge of forested mountains down its spine, surrounded by cliffs and beaches and fringing reefs. Trinidad is bigger, about 65 miles by 50, though long peninsulas on its western coast add to its breadth. Tobago is approximately 27 miles long and 7 miles wide with an area of 116 square miles and population of 50,000. A drive around the island or tour through the rainforest will prove to be a delightful outing. But Tobago is not about traipsing around historical sites. Don’t feel guilty about wanting to lounge around by the pool or under a shady tree at the beach. Without doubt, Tobago is an ideal destination for all ages and tastes, whether it’s an annual family vacation or a romantic getaway. Why not get married and enjoy a honeymoon on the island?

Scuba diving in Tobago is a brilliant experience. You can dive in a shallow reef or deep water, witnessing small and large sea creatures in their natural habitat. Since Tobago is considered the more laid back of the two islands, it’s popular for its several miles of beachfront and the many diving spots which are considered among the best in the Caribbean. This disparity between Trinidad and Tobago ensures visitors receive the best of both worlds regardless of whether they’re looking for entertainment and a lively atmosphere or want to soak up the atmosphere and get to know the people and the places. The island is a colorful place--great snorkeling, hiking, swimming and birdwatching--but we spent just as much time simply relaxing at our private villa. Between sunbathing by the pool, candlelight dinners on the verandah, and swimming by moonlight, we had a romantic retreat we’ll remember forever.

Driving standards on the island are generally poor. Most local drivers abhor air-conditioning and drive with one arm out of the window, partly to keep cool, but primarily to facilitate greeting of other drivers and passers-by. The islands gained independence from the British in 1962. The country is one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean, largely as a result of petroleum and natural gas industries. The smaller laid-back island of Tobago is believed to be the place Robert Louis Stevenson had in mind when he wrote Treasure Island. From the standpoint of lush scenery and mountain tops, it is indeed a treasure island. Tobago is dominated by smaller mountains and forests; in fact, over forty percent of the island is still forested. Though the island has volcanic origins, there are no active volcanoes remaining. Little Tobago Island is a 450-acre bird sanctuary, home of the rarely seen Bird of Paradise. You will visit this little island, with commentary and views of its teeming bird life.

Trinidad & Tobago has remained unspoilt in nature and possess many superb beaches and natural wonders. Whether a relaxing stroll on the beach, a scenic round of golf or the best diving in the Caribbean, the Coral Sunset House is the perfect spot to relax and play. The easy pace of life will re-invigorate you and its beauty will restore your appreciation of the simple pleasures life has to offer. Trinidad and Tobago are an intriguing pair of islands, with a mix of West Indian and African cultures, unique flora and fauna, and a vibrant nightlife that has produced calypso, soca and steel drum music. The country has the strongest economy of any in the Caribbean, and the capital is a bustling city of a half-million. Being a former sugar cane colony, Trinidad and Tobago is famous for its Rum. Some Bars will allow you to buy individual rum drinks either straight with or without a chaser, or mixed.

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Marsha February 26, 2010 at 5:28 pm

This is the best place on the earth

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