Saïrah To Adventure

Tobago

This tropical paradise is famous for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and lush rainforests, making it the ideal spot for nature lovers and sun-seekers. Main Ridge Forest Reserve is one of the oldest protected rainforests in the Western Hemisphere.

From the Amerindians who first lived on the island to the arrival of Europeans like the Spanish, Dutch, French, and British, Tobago’s history is a mix of cultural encounters and strength. Today, old forts, sugar mills, and plantations show Tobago’s rich history.

Tobago’s culture is a lively mix of African, European, and indigenous traditions, creating a unique and harmonious blend. The friendly nature of the islanders shines through their celebrations, festivals, and daily life. Experience the vibrant calypso and steelpan music, taste the delicious Creole cuisine, and take part in the colorful festivals that showcase Tobago’s cultural diversity. Whether it’s Tobago Carnival or the traditional Buccoo Goat Race Festival, Tobago welcomes you to celebrate life and heritage.

Citizens of CARICOM (Caribbean Community) member states enjoy visa-free travel to Trinidad and Tobago. Visitors from other countries however may need a visa. Make sure to ask your local travel agent for more information.

The best times to visit Tobago are:

• Right after Trinidad Carnival
• For the Tobago Heritage Festival
• For the Tobago Blue Food Festival
• For Tobago Carnival (dates may vary from year to year)
• During the dry season (approximately December to May)

Here are a few tips to make sure you have a smooth journey:

• Make sure you have Travel Insurance
• The local currency is TT Dollar. I would strongly advise to have enough cash on you for any smaller purchases you may want to make.
• Tobago has a tropical climate. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and don’t forget your sunscreen and hat.
• Renting a car could be the most convenient way to explore the island but be prepared to drive on the left side of the road. Alternatively, taxis and public transportation are available.
• Tobago is known for its pristine natural beauty. Help preserve the environment by practicing responsible tourism, such as avoiding littering and respecting wildlife.

There’s a wide selection of hotels, resorts & Airbnb’s to choose from in Tobago. From budget-friendly to luxury & everything in between, Tobago has it all. Make sure to check out the Airbnb app for more places to stay.

• Castara Cottage
• Bananaquit hotel
• Magdalena Grand Resort
• Coco Reef Resort & Spa

• Tobago Carnival:
  • The most important event in Tobago’s cultural calendar is Carnival. It’s a lively celebration filled with colorful costumes, music, and parades. Carnival happens before Lent and brings masquerade bands, steelpan orchestras, and street parades to the island. It’s a mix of tradition and modernity that creates a joyful atmosphere in Tobago.

• Buccoo Goat Race Festival:
  • Embrace the unique charm of the Buccoo Goat Race Festival. This event happens every year and involves goats and their handlers racing. It shows how Tobago can bring joy to even the most unusual traditions.

• Great Fete Weekend:
  • For music and dance enthusiasts, the Great Fete Weekend is a yearly event to look forward to. It takes place in July and presents both international and local artists, highlighting Tobago’s varied music scene.

• Tobago Heritage Festival:
  • Delve into the island’s history during the Tobago Heritage Festival, a ten-day event held in July. This festival offers performances, reenactments, and culinary experiences that capture the essence of Tobago’s past.

• Tobago Blue Food Festival:
  • This event is held annually in the remote village of Bloody Bay to highlight the different uses and increase consumption of dasheen. Dasheen is an indigenous staple root and this particular type turns blue when it is cooked.

• Market Square, Scarborough:
  • The Market Square in Scarborough is a lively place where local artists display their work. You can find handmade jewelry and traditional textiles that represent Tobago’s artistic spirit.

Tobago has many historical sites and museums that show the island’s interesting history:

• Fort King George & the Tobago Museum
• Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool
• Arnos Vale Waterwheel and Nature Park
• Mystery Tombstone of Betty Stiven
• Fort Bennett
• Kimme Museum

Tobago is a real foodie paradise!

I can’t even begin to cover everything but here are some food spots I personally loved:

La Tartaruga (Italian Cuisine)

Located in Buccoo Bay, right across from the boardwalk, lies La Tartaruga. Francesca and Gabriele, her father, who are the owners and chefs, take you on a culinary tour of Italy right here in Tobago. As soon as you walk in, you’re warmly welcomed by the friendly staff who make you feel right at home. Your orders are brought to your table by Gabriele who explains in detail what you’re about to taste. For every dish they have a wine that pairs perfectly with it. If you’re a wine connoisseur La Tartaruga is definitely a must visit and is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of your Tobago trip.

Let’s get into what I ordered:

As soon as you sit down you receive a plate of Focaccia with some Extra Virgin Olive Oil on the side. For those who’ve never had it, Focaccia is a type of Italian flatbread that is known for its soft and pillowy texture. It’s often seasoned with olive oil and various toppings. I’ve had this before in Suriname, but if I have to compare, I enjoyed this version much more. Simple and packed with flavor!

Appetizer

My appetizer was the Gran misto Antipasti. It refers to a platter or selection of various antipasti, which are traditional Italian appetizers or snacks served before the main course. The specific components of a Gran Misto Antipasti platter can vary, but their version contained:

• Bruschetta (an Italian appetizer that consists of grilled or toasted bread rubbed with garlic and topped with various ingredients)
• Caponata (typically a type of eggplant relish or vegetable stew. It has a sweet and sour flavor profile, thanks to a combination of ingredients like eggplant, tomatoes, celery, olives, and capers, all cooked together in a savory sauce)
• Truffle pate
• Barley salad
• Seafood terrine (typically a dish made by layering or mixing various seafood ingredients, typically fish or shellfish, with other complementary flavors)
• A Cerignola olive and Caponata

This appetizer was perfectly paired with a glass of Prosecco Fillipetti.

Main Course

After that delectable appetizer & Prosecco, my taste buds were ready for the main course. I got their Tagliatelle Capperi (shrimp & fish pasta sauteed in white wine with capers & cream). As I bit into that first piece of shrimp, fireworks went off in my mouth! The shrimp and pasta were cooked and seasoned to perfection and the fish was the freshest I’ve tasted in a while!

The Main course was paired with a glass of Roero Arneis white wine. The notes of citrus in the wine provided the necessary acidity that the pasta needed. Again, a perfect pairing!

Dessert

Dessert is my favorite part of any meal, and I couldn’t resist indulging in their Tiramisu. The delicate sweetness beautifully complemented the hints of coffee and cocoa coming through.

The refreshing acidity of the glass of Lambrusco Giacobazzi helped to cut the sweetness of the dessert.

Dinner at La Tartaruga is an adventure on its own. Your taste buds are transported through the many flavors of the Italian kitchen and vineyards.

Follow La Taratruga on social media:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• TikTok

Make your reservation TODAY!

Call or WhatsApp these numbers:

• +1 (868) 277-7016
• +1 (868) 715-5465
• +1 (868) 639-0940

Need directions to get there? I got you!

CLICK HERE

• Roosters (by the airport): their fried chicken is amazing!
• Milford Road (Crown Point): all along this road (walking distance from the airport) you can find a wide variety of food spots. From roti to Gyro’s, pizza and burgers, everything within walking distance of the airport.

Don’t be afraid to ask the locals what their favorite food spots are!

I’m sure there’s a lot more to do than what I list in this blog post, but these are the experiences I’ve had or heard good things about:

Combine caving with waterfall exploration at Argyle Waterfall. Explore limestone caves before reaching the cascades, providing a unique adventure for those seeking both underground and waterfall experiences.

1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling:
   • Buccoo Reef, Speyside, and Charlotteville have great diving and snorkeling spots where you can see colorful coral reefs and many different sea creatures.
2. Rainforest Hiking:
   • Hiking paths such as the Gilpin Trace in the Main Ridge Forest Reserve take you to waterfalls, secret pools, and stunning viewpoints.
3. Paddleboarding and Kayaking:
   • Glide along the coast of Tobago on a paddleboard or kayak. Discover hidden bays, mangrove swamps, and beautiful beaches. Paddleboarding is especially popular at spots like Pigeon Point and Store Bay.
4. Zip-lining at Adventure Farm and Nature Reserve:
   • Experience the excitement of zip-lining through the treetops at Adventure Farm and Nature Reserve in Roxborough. The course provides wide views of the nearby hills and coastline.
5. Bird Watching in Little Tobago:
   • Little Tobago Island is a great place for people who like to watch birds. You can take a boat to the island and see many types of seabirds, like frigatebirds, boobies, and tropicbirds.
6. Off-Road Adventure
7. Mountain Biking
8. Kite Surfing at Pigeon Point:
   • Pigeon Point is a well-liked place for people who enjoy kite surfing. You can get an adrenaline rush by making use of the steady trade winds and the calm water of the lagoon.
9. Deep-Sea Fishing:
   • Charter a fishing boat and try your hand at catching marlin, tuna, wahoo, and other big-game fish.
10. Coral Kayaking to Nylon Pool:
    • Take a guided coral kayaking tour to Nylon Pool, a shallow sandy area in the middle of the ocean. The clear waters provide excellent visibility, and you can enjoy a relaxing swim in this unique natural pool.
11. Tobago Cocoa Estate Adventure:
    • Discover the Tobago Cocoa Estate on a fun tour. Enjoy hiking, bird watching, and learning about how cocoa is made. It’s a great experience for nature and chocolate enthusiasts.
12. Caving at Argyle Waterfall:
    • Combine caving with waterfall exploration at Argyle Waterfall. Explore limestone caves before reaching the cascades, providing a unique adventure for those seeking both underground and waterfall experiences.
13. Frankie’s boat tours
14. Island Girl Tours TT

When you’re shopping for local crafts and souvenirs in Tobago, it’s a good idea to visit different markets and buy directly from the locals. The handmade items showcase the island’s cultural heritage and make great keepsakes for visitors.

1. Pigeon Point Craft Market:
   • Located near Pigeon Point Beach, this market is a hub for local artisans. You can find handmade jewelry, traditional textiles, wood carvings, and other unique crafts. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and pick up souvenirs.
2. Scarborough Market:
   • The Scarborough Market is also known as the Central Market and is a bustling spot in the capital. Vendors sell a various goods, including fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. Go explore and discover handmade items that reflect Tobago’s cultural heritage.
3. Gulf City Mall:
   • If you’re someone who would like a more modern shopping experience, Gulf City Mall has a range of shops and boutiques. Here you’ll find a mix of the more mainstream products and local crafts and souvenirs.
4. Craft Creators Tobago:
   • This is cooperative of local artists and craftsmen and operates in the Scarborough area. Craft Creators Tobago showcases a diverse range of handmade products, including jewelry, pottery, paintings, and woven items. They often participate in local events and exhibitions.
5. Store Bay Craft Market:
   • Right along Store Bay Beach, this craft market is a popular destination for tourists. There are a view stalls selling a variety of handmade items, from clothing and accessories to artwork and souvenirs.
6. Cultural Market, Scarborough:
   • The Cultural Market in Scarborough is another venue where you can explore local arts & crafts. It gives you the opportunity to engage with vendors and artists and gain insights into the creative process behind their work.
7. Art Gallery at the Kimme Museum:
   • The Kimme Museum also has an on-site art gallery. Visitors can purchase unique sculptures and artwork created by the late Luise Kimme, a German artist who made Tobago her home.
8. Buccoo Village:
   • Buccoo Village is known for its Sunday School street party. It also offers shopping opportunities where you can find local crafts, clothing, and souvenirs at the stalls and shops in the area.

Tobago has a lot of cultural history and special customs that visitors should know about to have good and respectful interactions with the local people.

1. Greetings and Politeness:
   • Tobagonians are usually friendly and polite. It’s normal to say “hello” or “good day” when you enter a room or walk by someone. Using respectful and polite language is important in all interactions.
2. Respecting Elders:
   • Tobagonian culture values respecting older people. It’s normal to use “Mr.” or “Mrs.” when speaking to them, unless they say you can use their first name.
3. Photography Etiquette:
   • Always ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals, especially in more remote or rural areas. Some people may have cultural or personal reasons for not wanting their photo taken.
4. Conservation Awareness:
   • Tobago places importance on preserving its natural beauty. Be conscious of the environment and avoid littering to contribute to the island’s conservation efforts.

It’s always a good idea to approach new experiences with an open mind and a willingness to learn and adapt.

Responsible tourism is essential for preserving the environment, supporting local communities, and ensuring a positive impact on the destination. Here are five tips for practicing responsible tourism while you’re in Tobago:

1. Respect the Environment:
   • Tobago is famous for its beautiful nature, like coral reefs, rainforests, and marine life. Be a responsible tourist by reducing your impact on the environment. Don’t leave trash, stay on marked paths when hiking, and follow rules for snorkeling and diving to keep coral reefs safe.
2. Support Local Businesses:
   • Contribute to the local economy by supporting locally-owned businesses, like hotels, restaurants, and shops. When you buy souvenirs, choose ones made by local artisans and craftspeople instead of mass-produced items. This way, the money you spend on tourism goes right back into the community and helps keep traditional crafts and livelihoods alive.
3. Cultural Sensitivity:
   • Respect the local culture and traditions. Learn about basic cultural norms, and be careful about local customs, especially during festivals or religious events. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, and interact with the community in a respectful and open-minded way.
4. Choose Sustainable Accommodations:
   • Opt for eco-friendly accommodations in Tobago that focus on saving energy, reducing waste, and conserving water. Many hotels and guesthouses in Tobago are dedicated to sustainable tourism and choosing them supports responsible environmental practices.
5. Educate Yourself and Others:
   • Take the time to learn about Tobago’s environment, culture, and history. Understand the challenges faced by the local community and ecosystems. By educating yourself, you become a more responsible and informed traveler. Share your knowledge with fellow travelers, promoting responsible tourism practices and encouraging a collective commitment to sustainability.

Remember, responsible tourism means making choices that help the destination and its communities. By following these tips, you can help preserve Tobago’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable and responsible travel.

By now I’m convinced that every corner in Tobago is an Instagrammable spot. But here are some must visit places:

1. Pigeon Point Heritage Park:
   • The beach’s idyllic setting, framed by swaying palm trees, makes it perfect for capturing the essence of the Caribbean.
2. Argyle Waterfall:
   • Tucked away in the rainforest of the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, Argyle Waterfall is a series of three stunning cascades. It’s a great place for nature photography.
3. Englishman’s Bay:
   • This secluded beach is surrounded by lush hills, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting.
4. Castara Bay:
   • Castara Bay is a charming fishing village with a scenic beach. You can capture the vibrant colors of the fishing boats against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea.
5. Fort King George
6. Charlotteville:
   • Charlotteville is known for its picturesque fishing port and colorful houses.
7. Nylon Pool:
   • Accessible by boat from Pigeon Point or Store Bay, the Nylon Pool is a shallow, sandy area in the middle of the ocean. The crystal-clear water and the unique experience of being surrounded by the sea make it an ideal spot for creative and refreshing shots.
8. Buccoo Reef:
   • The colorful coral formations and marine life offer unique opportunities for underwater photography.
9. Little Tobago Island:
   • A short boat trip from Speyside takes you to Little Tobago Island, a nature reserve known for its birdlife and tropical vegetation. Here you can capture the island’s dramatic cliffs, nesting seabirds, and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.
10. Parlatuvier Bay:
    • Parlatuvier Bay is a lovely fishing village with a calm bay. The mix of fishing boats, palm-lined shores, and the tropical surroundings creates a peaceful and beautiful scene.

Remember to be considerate of nature and the people who live in the area while taking photos of these amazing views. Whether you like taking pictures of land, sea, or wildlife, Tobago has a lot of different places for photography fans and Instagram enthusiasts to discover and capture the island’s beauty.

This guide is based on my experiences. I hope this helps my fellow travelers on their Tobago trip. If you need any more information, please feel free to contact me through my website or my social media.