Tobago, clean, green and serene

Are you looking to get away to somewhere new? Somewhere your friends haven’t visited? If you appreciate understated ecotourism, destinations without casinos, ritzy nightclubs, mega hotels or huge malls, Tobago, in the island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, may be for you.

As the tourism industry becomes more efficient, mass-market oriented and impersonal, it’s good to know there are still pockets of genuine island warmth and hospitality for those willing to detour a little. In the U.S., some large hotel chains recently announced automated kiosk check-in at many of their properties. In the Caribbean, an increasing number of large, extra-large and extra-extra-large hotel complexes are popping up. Even the Bahamian Out Islands have been bitten by the development bug.

There are times when a well-developed destination with all the bells and whistles is in order, when a mega-development with water features, multiple restaurants on-site, casinos, ranch-size spa, WiFi connectivity everywhere, and shop-till-you-drop options sometimes is just right for the mood and budget. Glittery destinations like Las Vegas have an allure all their own. Other times, it’s nice to enjoy the Caribbean the way it used to be—laid back, sleepy and resistant to modern advances in a rather appealing way.

Tobago, described as “clean, green and serene” in promotional brochures, is home to one of the oldest protected rain forests in the region, seasonal diving and friendly Tobagonians. For years Europeans have flocked to enjoy Tobago’s unhurried pace and unspoiled beauty. Today, this island receives more U.K. and German natives than visitors from any other country.

Americans visitors, however, are few. But those willing to brave the long flight to explore this relatively quiet territory may appreciate its many charms.
Although the island’s main source of revenue is tourism, due to the country’s wealth of mineral resources, Tobago is not dependent on indiscriminate mass tourism for its survival. That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of visitors and places catering to tourism. There are. For now Tobago’s is a kinder, gentler tourism industry than that of many other destinations.

While most of the land attractions can be explored independently, tourists are advised to hire a guide to visit Tobago’s tropical forest preserve in order to get the most of the experience and avoid losing their way in the thick, green foliage. Ecotourism and nature enthusiasts on the island for a week probably run out of time before they run out of things to do. In addition to guided walks in the rain forest, visitors can enjoy diving, day sails, horseback riding, a visit to the Argyle Waterfalls, bird watching, a day at the pool or beach, discovering the island by car and having a meal in one of numerous restaurants. The small town of Speyside is a great place for a drive, dive and beachfront lunch at Jemma’s Treehouse Restaurant.

The verdant island grows many fruits and vegetables. Trinidad and Tobago, a mere seven miles from Venezuela, furnish enough fish, chicken and meat products to supply residents and visitors. With these local products, Tobagonians make many tasty dishes that surprise and please the palate. Island specialties include Crab & Dumplings, Conch & Dumplings, chicken and meat savory roti wraps (a personal favorite), Shark Bake and Creole Bake.

There are many affordable places to stay, ranging from private homes for rent to tourist class and upscale hotels. Deciding where to stay will depend on your preferences and what you want to do during your visit. There are beachfront and inland hotels; self-catering and all-inclusive options. Many of the hotels are in the northwestern corner of the island where the better-known dive sites are located. There are also hotels, a craft market, local food stalls and several restaurant options near the island’s international airport on the western tip of Crown Point.

Elena del Valle has visited hundreds of cities in more than 50 countries. She writes about exceptional destinations, ecotourism, food and luxury travel.