Tobago

Tobago is an island rich in natural beauty. A little more than thirty kilometres long and nine kilometres wide, it offers a peaceful contrast to its much larger sister island of Trinidad.

The main tourist hotels are located in the south west of the island where picturesque beaches, shaded by gently swaying palm trees, border turquoise waters. Around the rugged coast are secluded coves and horseshoe shaped bays providing peaceful isolation. There are exceptional diving opportunities around the shores but, at the very least, take a glass-bottom boat to Little Tobago to admire the coral teeming with tropical fish.

A truly incredible spectacle can be witnessed between the months of March and August as Leatherback Turtles lay their eggs and hatchlings emerge from their nests on the beaches.

Bird watchers are attracted by the many colourful exotic species including red-billed tropic and frigate birds. Nature lovers will enjoy walks into the hilly and forested interior where quiet and traditional West Indian Villages nestle – make time to visit the three tier Argyle Waterfall and enjoy a swim afterwards.

Visitors are encouraged to attend a variety of shows, fairs and concerts held in various parishes throughout the year including an annual heritage celebration (12 July-2 August) of song, dance and poetry. On Easter Monday, pop along to see the Buccoo Goat, Donkey & Crab Races for an entertaining and atmospheric occasion or join in with onshore revelry during the annual Angostura Sail week (11-16 May).

To cap it all, the annual Plymouth Jazz Festival (25-27 April) is a star-studded extravaganza where local talent will be showcased alongside some of the world’s biggest superstars including, for 2008’s event, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross and Shakira.

Two thirds of Tobago is covered by rainforest which, naturally, means precipitation is required! Although the northeast tradewinds temper the tropical climate, the most rain is usually expected May through to July with the hottest months June through to October. The dry season is from November through to May and this period, particularly from Christmas and over Easter, attracts higher prices at the hotels.

 Travel Value has carefully selected the hotels to make your choice easier.

The Turtle Beach by rex resorts(***) stands on a superb stretch of beach. Offering a choice of meal plans from Room Only to All-Inclusive, we offer some exceptional early booking offers and child discounts up to the age of 16 years much of the year.

The Tropikist Beach Hotel(***) is at Crown Point within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

After a major refurbishment, the Grafton Beach Resort (****) enjoys a prominent location overlooking Great Courland Bay. This is an all-inclusive resort and we offer some great deals for families, wedding couples and single travellers.

Le Grand Courlan Resort & Spa(****+) is situated adjacent to the Grafton Beach and under the same ownership. The Adults Only all-inclusive concept here includes either a daily spa treatment or dive package and is ideal for couples, particularly honeymooners.

The Coco Reef Resort & Spa(****+) is close to Pigeon Point and evokes colonial elegance. A crescent shaped beach fronts the resort which is surrounded by lush tropical gardens.