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| CARIBBEAN
TRAVEL INFORMATION |
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or if you are in a hurry - try our vacation rental search options:
Trinidad
and Tobago, Islands of Adventure by Brian Ramsey
Trinidad
and Tobago, two islands set in the Caribbean Sea. The name Caribbean conjures
up images of blue seas and white sand beaches set against green hills.
It brings to mind images of lying on the beach sipping pina coladas or
rum and coca-cola. For the holiday traveler Tobago meets those expectations.
For the outdoor enthusiast however, Trinidad and Tobago can be islands
of outdoor recreation adventure with hiking trails and hidden waterfalls,
bird and turtle watching, cycling through verdant countryside or kayaking
past wildlife filled forests.
Trinidad and Tobago has a
range of hiking opportunities with many of the hikes leading to waterfalls.
Rincon waterfall in the Rincon valley on the north coast of Trinidad is
a 250-foot vertical drop. The hike begins in the valley amidst small farms,
fording several crystal clear streams and then winds uphill, culminating
with a steep descent to the base of the waterfall. The 32 kilometer trail
from Blanchissuese to Matelot on Trinidad's north coast is considered a
jewel. Along the hike one alternates from unspoiled rainforest to untouched
beaches. Starting from Blanchissuese you encounter Paria Bay after two
to three hours (depending on the hiker's level of fitness). A short trail
from the beach leads to Paria waterfall where there is a deep clear pool
below the falls surrounded by heliconia, fringed lilies, and philodendron.
If you choose to continue the hike after Paria Bay, the trail rambles over
a succession of small ridges, crossing several small streams, until you
next encounter Gran Tacarib, which is a 1.2 kilometer crescent shaped beach.
From Gran Tacarib the trail continues to the Madamas river and then Madamas
Beach. Both Madamas Beach and Gran Tacarib are nesting sites for Leatherback
turtles, during the nesting season of March to September. After Madamas
it is a continuation of the up and down hiking and crossing small streams
and then the Petite Riviere river. The trail continues through abandoned
estate lands with cocoa, coffee, tonka bean, nutmeg and papaya (pawpaw)
until you arrive at the Matelot River and the village of Matelot.
For those who want to lie
on the beach but also engage in some outdoor activity there are several
less strenous hikes. Argyle waterfall on the outskirts of Roxborough in
Tobago is an easy hike along the Argyle River to a three level waterfall.
The hike to the Rio Seco waterfall on Trinidad's north-east coast goes
through semi-cultivated land and then through stately mora forests to a
small waterfall with a refreshing emerald pool, ideal for swimming.
Both Trinidad and Tobago
abound with birds and at almost every turn an avian spectacle can be observed.
Trinidad and Tobago has some of the most diverse bird species to be found
in one location with over 460. This variety in species can perhaps be attributed
to the fact that the islands lie close to South America so migration is
easier, resulting in unusually diverse fauna. Asa Wright Nature Center,
is Trinidad and Tobago's premier birding location and it has been widely
recognized as one of the most successful eco-tourism stories in the world.
The listing of birds that can be seen at this center is too long for this
article but has been identified in the vicinity of 159. Some of these birds
include; Purple Honeycreeper, Green Honeycreeper, Crested Oropendola, Silver-beaked
Tanager, White-necked Jacobin hummingbirds, Bananaquit, Red-legged Honeycreeper,
White-chested Emerald hummingbird, Cocoa Thrush, Chestnut Woodpecker, Great
Antshrike. This Nature Center is located at a height of approximately 1,200
feet in the hills of the Northern Range, seven miles from the town of Arima.
It is reached by a single lane road that winds through verdant countryside
dotted by small villages and isolated houses. There are numerous trails
throughout the property and very knowledgeable guides.
Grafton Wildlife Sanctuary,
Tobago, is a former cocoa and coconut estate that was destroyed by Hurricane
Flora in 1963 and as a result was converted into a wildlife sanctuary.
It is approx. 200 acres in size and is covered in secondary forest. There
are three main forest trails. As you enter, the first trail on the right
leads downhill and is relatively short. The second trail on the left also
gradually leads downhill and then eventually climbs uphill. The main trail,
which is directly facing the entrance, leads uphill and winds past several
abandoned estate buildings and stables. There are benches along the main
trail and at some points they provide panoramic views. There are at least
three smaller trails that branch off from the main uphill trail but these
are not always maintained. The three main forest trails are maintained.
It is possible to spend an enjoyable hour or an intense four hours. The
entire sanctuary abounds with birds of varied species.
Trinidad and Tobago are islands
in the Caribbean Sea so there are myriad opportunities for kayaking. However
for those who do not want to contend with large waves, ocean swells and
ocean currents, Trinidad and Tobago offers a choice of sheltered saltwater
and freshwater kayaking opportunities. Two kayaking areas of particular
note are Bon Accord Lagoon and the Godineau River.
The azure waters of Buccoo
Bay and the Bon Accord Lagoon in Tobago are sheltered by the offshore Buccoo
reef, providing a kayaking area with only gentle swells. Kayak rentals
are available at the nearby Storebay and also at Pigeon Point. The fringing
Mangrove swamps of the Bon Accord Lagoon provide a scenic contrast to the
white
sand beaches along Pigeon Point and at the center of Buccoo bay. The offshoots
of the reef also shelter the adjacent Milford Bay, allowing one to kayak
to the south-east from Bon Accord Lagoon around Pigeon Point and into Milford
Bay or vice-versa.
The Godineau River in south
Trinidad, also known as the South Oropouche River, is one of the rivers
in Trinidad that provides a year round kayaking opportunity as the water
level is always sufficient. Kayaking in the Godineau area takes you through
a variety of habitats, from saltwater mangrove swamp to fresh water marshland
to partially cultivated areas. A variety of birdlife can be seen on these
kayak trips including Scarlet Ibis, Southern Lapwing, Osprey, Savannah
Hawk, Wattled Jacana, Cattle Egret, Yellow-hooded Blackbird, Lesser Yellowlegs,
Black-bellied Whistling Duck and a variety of migrating ducks (during the
northern winter). This kayak trip can be started either from the sea along
the area known as the Mosquito Creek or inland from the Woodland area.
Trinidad's network of old
agricultural & oilfield roads plus (relatively) quiet country roads,
along with hiking paths provide a range of surfaces and environments for
cycling. In addition terrain ranges from flat land to rolling inclines
to hillsides. For those with a preference for road biking almost every
area of Trinidad has country roads with reduced vehicle traffic. The cross-country
rider will be able to find undulating land with natural vistas. Those whose
interest lies in mountain biking can find forest trails with logs, bamboo
and streams across the trail requiring navigation and dexterity.
So the next time you are
looking for outdoor recreational activity with a difference, experience
Trinidad and Tobago, islands of Adventure.
Top
About the Author
Brian Ramsey operates the
web site, Outdoors Trinidad, www.trinoutdoors.com and is the author of
the CD, Discovering the Birds of Trinidad and Tobago, www.birdsoftt.com. |
| FEATURED
HOTELS IN TRINIDAD |
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| FEATURED
HOTELS IN COCONUT BAY |
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Coco
Reef Resort and Spa, Coconut Bay, Trinidad & Tobago
**
Tobago is an island of unique
beauty with breathtaking rain forests complete with waterfalls historical
sights and unrivaled beaches. It is here in Tobago that one of the Caribbean's
most spectacular resorts are located. The Coco Reef is set at the
end of a palm lined driveway in beautifully manicured tropical gardens
overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean sea. On arrival
in Tobago all Coco Reef guests can be personally met at the airport and
transported to the hotel and a world of understated elegance. The hotel
offers luxurious accommodations in 135 rooms suites and villas. Memorable
cuisine and outstanding service all enhanced with a feeling of true Tobagonian
hospitality. |
| FEATURED
HOTELS IN PIARCO |
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Bel
Air International Airport, Piarco
Bel Air Airport hotel is
conveniently located immediately just outside the perimeter of Piarco international
airport only 5 minutes away. Ideally suited for early morning departures
and late arrivals with 24 hour courtesy airport tranport service. Welcome
atmosphere, courteous and hospitable staff, 56 air conditioned rooms, poolside
with TVs and in the main building. in-house laundry, complimentary coffee/tea
for early departures. Restaurant and bar facilities open 18
hours daily. Sports bar. Air conditioned dining room and outdoor covered
patio, Saturday night bar-b-que with live entertainment. Outdoor swimming
pool, secured large car park, meeting and function facilities, special
events and entertainment. Complimentary ... coffee/tea for early
departures |
| FEATURED
HOTELS IN PORT OF SPAIN |
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View
the full list of hotels in Port of Spain
 |
Chaconia
Hotel, Port of Spain
The Chaconia Hotel is a
family-owned, newly renovated Boutique styled property, nestled in the
hills of Trinidad's beautiful Maraval Valley. The hotels design has a distinct
Spanish influence, with interior decor reflecting the island's unique and
diverse culture. Within the property, we have a secluded tropical pool
terrace, as well as fully air-conditioned meeting space, with multi-configuration
capability. The hotel offers secured parking for up to 75 vehicles. Located
on Saddle road, the Chaconia Hotel is less than 15 minutes from downtown
Port of Spain and 20 minutes to Maracas Beach along the scenic north coast
road. |
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Crowne
Plaza Trinidad, Port of Spain ***
The Crowne Plaza Trinidad
is the premier choice for the business or leisure visitor to Port-Of-Spain.
Our convenient city- center location on the waterfront, offers easy access
to downtown shopping, museums, and cultural sites. Our business travellers
will appreciate being within walking distance from the heart of the financial
and commercial districts. As the new address for the savvy traveller, the
Crowne Plaza Trinidad offers a welcoming atmosphere of classic luxury,
and unique architecture in the most desirable city-center location. |
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Forty
Winks Inn, Port of Spain
Welcome to Forty Winks Inn
where we believe in good value and gracious style. We aim to provide a
refreshing tropical experience for the discerning traveller who wants style,
comfort and personalized service at reasonable cost. This charming newly
restored building is an oasis of colour and ambience in a neighborhood
chock full of every convenience you can imagine. |
| FEATURED
HOTELS IN SCARBOROUGH |
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View
the full list of Scarborough Hotels and other hotels in Trinidad and Tobago
|
Blue
Haven Hotel, Scarborough
Atmosphere of yesteryear.
Experience the grandeur of old-fashion nostalgia. Situated on a majestic
cliff overlooking Bacolet bay where Robinson Crusoe supposedly washed ashore.
Romantic blue haven was idyllic scenery of several golden movies in the
1950s. Splendidly renovated while retaining its retro-charm blue haven
combines the ambience if the old days with modern living. If former guests
like Robert Mitchum and Rita Hayworth were to visit today, they d find
the same now century-old palms lining the driveway, remnants of an old
fortress with cannons, the same coral pink 50s facade and the original
octagonal lobby topped by a dome opening onto a broad terrace surrounded
by lush tropical vegetation and the azure blue sea. Enjoy your vacation
in paradise spiced with true Caribbean island life laid back, relaxed,
no problem. |
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Half
Moon Blue Hotel, Scarborough ***
Nestled in gardens of palms,
bamboo and bougainvillea, the Half Moon Blue suites lay beneath the hill
of historical Fort George. Extra spacious suites and a spectacular Penthouse
loft overlook the horizon, the half moon shaped Bacolet Bay and the overflow
swimming pool where midnight swims are a must. The decor sets your mood
for serene and lazy days and romantic exotic nights. These colonial styled
suites with jalousied windows and doors open onto verandahs with rattan
chaise-lounges, creating the perfect spot for whatever your heart desires.
The southernmost of the Caribbean Islands, Tobago contains many idyllic,
easily accessible beaches, stunning coral reefs and the oldest protected
rain forest in the Western Hemisphere. |
| FEATURED
VACATION RENTAL IN ENGLISHMEN'S BAY |
|
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Sunset
Valley Estate, Englishman's Bay
Sunset Valley Estate is
located between the sleepy fishing villages of Castara & Parlatuvier
on the Caribbean coast of Tobago. This area is considered the most tranquil
and loveliest on the island. Sunset Valley rests on a ridge overlooking
picturesque Englishman’s Bay and is surrounded by three acres of lush,
manicured gardens and orchards. The panoramas from the villa’s huge wrap-around
veranda are truly breathtaking...the crystal blue turquoise of the Caribbean
in the front and the lush, deep greens of the rain forest in the rear...the
views are unforgettable. Sunset Valley can accommodate up to eight
people in its three bedrooms. Two of the bedrooms have both full and twin
beds with ensuite bath. The third bedroom has two twin beds and there are
two full-sized futon beds in the spacious great room. |
| FEATURED
VACATION RENTAL IN PLEASANT PROSPECT |
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Villa
Limbo in Tobago, Pleasant Prospect
Villa Limbo, privately owned,
is a three bedroom (2 King, 1 Queen) 3 ½-bath Georgian/Caribbean
style home on the unspoiled island of Tobago. Located on the Sanctuary
Resort on Grafton Estate in the village of Pleasant Prospect, Tobago, West
Indies, Villa Limbo was completed in 1997. Furnished with locally crafted
mahogany, teak, and rattan furniture, custom batik fabrics, handcrafted
carvings, and terracotta pottery. Villa Limbo is a vision of authentic
Caribbean charm perched on a hillside with a spectacular view of the beautiful
turquoise waters of Buccoo Reef on the Caribbean Sea. Villa Limbo
comfortably accommodates a party of six with a futon bed for an extra person. |
| FEATURED
VACATION RENTAL IN SCARBOROUGH |
|
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Luxurious
Tobago Villa, Scarborough
Luxurious villa constructed
in colonial architecture; situated in Tobago 5 star Hilton Golf and Beach
Resort. Jaccuzi, swimming pool. A/C. This luxurious villa is situated
on an 18 hole PGA championship golf course, in the Hilton International
Beach and Golf Resort, Tobago. The colonial style architecture and furniture
coupled with the natural tropical ambience create a unique retreat.
The villa has a large swimming pool and jacuzzi. Its large patio in front
of the swimming pool looks on to the golf course which borders with the
villa's garden. The villa comprises 4 bedrooms in total; 2 double,
2 twin, 4 of the bedrooms with en-suite facilities. This gives room for
up to 8 people. |
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