The Brilliant Colors of Trinidad and Tobago

If you're looking to experience a rich culture with fantastic festivals, but still want some down time in a beautiful tropical backdrop to relax, Trinidad and Tobago is the perfect island vacation pair.
 
Complete opposites in personality, Trinidad is alive with festivals and nightlife, while Tobago has a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful scenery for quiet contemplation. Both Trinidad and Tobago have a fascinating display of wildlife that rival the outrageous Carnival displays in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad's vibrant capital city.

The Trinidad Carnival

Vibrant with color and fanfare, Trinidad is the best Caribbean island destination to experience Carnival. Deemed as one of the world's best carnival destinations, its festivities are only second to Rio.

For one week in February music and dancing abound in Trinidad's streets and at the hottest parties. Witnessing the Parade of the Bands, you'll be sure to experience some of Trinidad's famous steel pan music. You'll also receive a fine taste of calypso and soca music. When dressing for Carnival, comfort should be your main concern—no stilettos or suits, and no fine jewelry. Wear something you can dance and jump in and don't mind getting dirty or torn. Secondly, wear color. Carnival is a time when you can go wild with color; don't hesitate to combine your khaki shorts with a purple, orange, turquoise or fuchsia shirt.

The rest of the year, Trinidad is still a wonderful place to visit. Port-of-Spain is a hopping city filled with numerous art galleries, amenities and shopping opportunities. The island also has its share of beautiful beaches, rare wildlife, and lush green settings.

Laid Back Tobago

After all that partying during Carnival, you're sure to need some time to rest. Tobago has exactly what you need to soothe your tired body and unfurl that wound up mind.

Well-known as Robinson Crusoe's island, Tobago is filled with spectacular surroundings including teeming coral, lush rainforests, and palm-lined golden beaches. This island paradise is home to the oldest rainforest on the western side of the world.

Natural wonders abound, including the chance to glimpse the endangered giant leatherback turtle. Nature tours and special bird watching trips are available on land. To experience some magical coral reef snorkeling or diving, try Speyside or Buccoo Reef off the southwest coast.

Tobago is also known for its outstanding restaurants. Be sure not to miss the curried crab and dumplings, a local specialty.

Trinidad and Tobago: A Bird-Lover's Paradise

One thing both islands do have in common is an incredible abundance of birds. Trinidad and Tobago are in the top ten places in the world for number of bird species per square mile.

You can't go anywhere in Tobago without seeing hummingbirds—nineteen species live there, and seven of them are unique to Tobago. It is here that you may have the good fortune to spot the rare white-tailed sabrewing hummingbird.

Birdwatchers in Trinidad should be sure to visit Nariva Swamp, the Aripo Savannah and the Asa Wright Nature Centre. When in Tobago visit Little Tobago Island for the best bird watching. To view the national bird of Trinidad and Tobago, the scarlet ibis, plan a stop at the Caroni Bird Sanctuary.

If you don't find the species you're looking for, you may just find it at a local restaurant. It is common for restaurant owners to place feeders on their porches and around their restaurants so you can enjoy the view...and so they don't help themselves to your food!