Population
1,531,044
capital
Port of Spain
Language
English, Creole
currency
Trinidad & Tobago Dollar
Flight time
11 hours and 15 minutes from the UK
time difference
UTC/GMT -4 hours
best time to go
Jan-Mar
Introducing Tobago
Tobago is one of the most famous Caribbean islands and one half of the nation, Trinidad and Tobago. This sunny destination is loved for its large beaches, dreamy coastal sunsets, lush tropical rainforests and its dramatic mountainous backdrop. Whilst each island of the Caribbean region has its own charm, many of the locals here like to believe that Tobago represents the true Caribbean, the real Caribbean. And it offers the most authentic Caribbean experience for travellers in search of that dream island paradise. Over the years, this small tropical island has attracted newlyweds and honeymooners to luxury seekers, beach lovers and adventurists. From its palm fringed coastline and classic boat-lined shores to its water sport loving crowds and luxury resorts, Tobago is very much the postcard image of a holiday in the Caribbean Sea. And whilst you can guarantee a great sense of authenticity in this charming nation with its sunny weather, smiling faces and lively reggae music, you can also relax knowing that there’s a fantastic choice of luxury resorts and full service hotels to cater to your every whim. Whether you come here to romance a loved one, to share a magical island dream with your family or your kids, or come here in search of a little piece of heaven, Tobago will not disappoint.
The unique experience in Tobago has to begin with the beautiful beaches and the endless variety of water sports and if you love the great outdoors, you’ll be blown away by the waterfall walks and nature trails on your doorstep. Or if it’s history, culture and great food that you’re after, don’t miss the delightful port capital of Scarborough. This charming city is humble and looks more like a village than a nation capital, and is very much defined by its unique shopping culture – shops filled with local products and handmade crafts – its friendly people, and a central food market that offers a taste of the nation to passing tourists.
If you want to experience the real, authentic and charming Caribbean that you’ve seen in the movies or read about in magazines, the beautiful island of Tobago awaits…
Family
Everything about Tobago is just perfect for families. This dream island is authentically Caribbean so kids will get a fantastic sense of this famous holiday region and the established hotels and resorts will ensure that you are looked after for the duration of your stay. Hospitality is outstanding here and you will find that both resort staff and locals will go out of their way to help you. Tobago’s beaches are well maintained and are safe for kids of all ages, plus there are many great places for bird-watching and wildlife spotting which will keep your little ones entertained for hours – such a great way of encouraging children to embrace the great outdoors. The country is free from Malaria and the tropical forest regions are free from dangerous snakes and other threats, so it’s safe to wander all over the island. Crime rates are low too so parents can relax knowing that the whole family is safe here.
Cuisine
The cuisine of Tobago, like many other cuisines in the Caribbean, is a unique blend of African cooking, Indian cooking, Chinese cooking, European cooking and Latin American cooking. But what makes the food of Trinidad and Tobago so distinctively different is the additional cultural influences reaching as far as Syria, Lebanon and Italy. So when it comes to fusion cooking, Trinidadian cuisine really takes it to a whole new level. Curry and roti are a national favourite, whilst crab and dumplings is also a popular dish. Make sure you also try the local lobster which is always fresh and succulent, the ‘Doubles’ curried chickpea snack which is popular at breakfast time, barbequed pigtail, Gyros meat served in a wrap, and the favourite local dessert of ‘Chow’ which is fresh mixed fruit with a savoury twist.
History and Culture
Whilst Trinidad and Tobago are one nation, the cultures of each island are very different. But both have been influenced by the different cultures that have lived on the islands including the African people, the French, the Chinese, the Brits, Indians, Syrians, the Spanish, the Dutch and the Portuguese. Their vibrant multiculturalism is evident in the amazing fusion food and all their fantastic carnivals, festivals and cultural events. Both islands are English speaking islands so travellers will find it easy to communicate with the locals.
Recommended Tobago Specialists
Top Locations in Tobago
Explore the Beaches
Tobago is known for its picture-perfect beaches. If you’re after paradisiacal beach views fringed with tropical palms and falling coconuts, you’re in luck because there are so many to choose from! Some of the best beaches on the island include Englishman's Bay, Mount Irvine Bay Beach, Castara Bay, Pigeon Point Beach, Store Bay, Pirates Bay and Charlotteville Beach. Many of these have beach clubs and beach front amenities and all of them are safe for children.
Visit Scarborough Port
A visit to the island capital is a must. Go shopping for trinkets and souvenirs in the city’s bazaars and head to the central food market to taste some local produce and to mingle with the locals. And don’t miss the 18th Century fort, Fort King George.
Buccoo Reef
Buccoo Reef, near Mount Irvine Bay, is a protected marine park and it’s a fantastic dive spot. Scuba or snorkel to catch a glimpse of the spectacular marine life including turtles, giant manta rays and various fish species. And kids will love the glass bottomed boats which tour the marine park, giving you unobstructed views of the sealife below.
Bird of Paradise Island
Bird of Paradise Island, otherwise known as Little Tobago, is a small island off the North East coast. Hop on a day excursion here and you will get to spend the day bird spotting for more than 50 different species and snorkelling by the Angel Reef.
Argyle Falls
This is Tobago’s highest waterfall and there’s a steep but rewarding hiking trail involved before you get to it. You can hike this area with the help of a local guide or you can spend your time trying to spot all the beautiful birdlife. Whatever you do, don’t forget to bring your swimming gear because you can take a dip in the pool at the bottom of the falls to cool off!