Why tobago

However, the reality is that many countries' borders are still closed and there is still a certain level of fear associated with travel. Given the fact that there is still no available vaccine, it's understandable that travelers looking at their next holiday destination will want to know how safe it is when they are in a position to travel. While Tobago's borders have not yet opened to international travel, our government and relevant authorities are working hard to prepare for your safe return.

With extremely low numbers, Tobago can be seen as a safe haven. Since the outbreak of the virus, the government moved swiftly in efforts to manage the worst of its impact, and as a result, Tobago has had very low cases of infections.

In June, both Tobago and its sister isle, Trinidad, ranked first of all the Caribbean islands in its preparedness to lift physical distancing measures, according to a University of Oxford study.

I grab my camera and follow as the bar owner leads us past the club to his home. He swings the door open to reveal a modest living space with a major bonus: a gigantic porch with a million-dollar view. Early the next morning, I board the boat, filled with optimism. With a full night of sleep under my belt, I am ready to enjoy the diving that this island is famous for. As the divemaster scans the site, he gestures toward a small rock with a distinct wake on one side.

During our descent, the ocean floor is shuttling past in a blur of red and yellow sponges and orange cup corals. Barrel sponges that I could easily curl into litter the seafloor, and a thigh-size green moray swims unafraid across the reef. Looking up, I see blackjacks hunting among the aqua waves. Days before my arrival, a lucky group of divers was pestered by a large manta for two successive dives, so as I stride into the swell, I cockily ready my camera and prepare to be equally hounded.

Scorpionfish, octopuses and clusters of huge lobsters are tucked into every sponge- and coral-covered crevice, though, so I have plenty to distract myself with until I ascend. Finally, Breton , p. Clearly, they believed that the outline of Tobago closely resembled that of the monstrous serpent, just as their relatives the Kalina and the Spanish compared the island with the outlines of a conch next to a cigar, respectively.

The mountainous northeastern part of Tobago was apparently believed to represent the head of the animal while the rest of the island symbolized its body. If indeed Tobago was taken by the Island Caribs to personify the Antillean bejewelled snake, an Amerindian tale on the island, recorded by Rochefort in the mid-seventeenth century, becomes intelligible as referring to this mythical serpent.

According to Rochefort , pp. The Indians were afraid of this phenomenon, which they attributed to malevolent spirits. Rochefort supposed that the « fires » were caused by naturally occurring deposits of sulphur, which were lit due to the heat of the sun in the daytime. It may have reminded the Amerindians of the bright jewel on the forehead of the Antillean monstrous snake. Daugava, Stockholm. Anonymous Tobago. I, pp. Archibald R.

Boomert Arie « The Cayo complex of St. Auxerre ]. Brinton Daniel G. Caesar Erol « Superstitions among Tobago fisherfolk », in Report conference on culture and the cultural heritage of Tobago, Mt Irvine Bay , pp. Venice ]. Corominas J. De Goeje Claudius H. Bosch-Reitz transl. Paris ]. Devas Raymond P. Warner ed. Ernst Adolfo « On the etymology of the word tobacco », American Anthropologist, 2, pp. Upton Clark ed. Fowler John A summary account of the present flourishing state of the respectable colony of Tobago in the British West Indies , London.

Furst Peter T. Bedini ed. Goslinga Cornelis Ch. Gullick Charles J. Madrid ]. Honem Diego? Tobago boasts of a warm tropical climate with year-round temperatures ranging from 23 degrees to 32 degrees.

Because the island falls just under the hurricane belt, it's the perfect island escape without having to worry about adverse weather. A stop by this family-owned and operated petting zoo is a must. Located within a beautiful tropical garden, this quaint eco-resort also contains an in-house art gallery with depictions of the island's history and culture.

Also known as Bird of Paradise Island, explore the island and look for exotic sea bird or nesting colonies of Red-Billed, Tropicbird, Red-footed and Brown Boobies from the cliffside vantage point and well-marked trails.

Watch the marine world come alive at night at this fan-favourite dive spot that is also an underwater photographer's delight.

Moray eels, octopus, small turtles and tropical fishes can be seen gliding over vivid reefs and sponges. Its shallow waters make it the perfect spot for beginners to get their start.

Take this sensory journey by horseback through the waters of Buccoo Bay where you will not only reconnect with your inner self but also forge a harmonious bond with your new equine partner. Listen to the sweet orchestra of the island's birds as you visit the home of a vast variety of hummingbirds like the Ruby-Topaz, Copper-Rumped, Black-throated Mango and a host of other species of birds.

Perfect for the avid bird-watcher, photographer or those who just love the outdoors. Comprised of a trio of dive sites, this beautiful reef is the perfect spot to not see queen angelfish, hawksbill turtles and even the shy spotted eagle ray. Add this to one of your stops for your Tobago road trip. The communications tower serves as a massive marker at the top of the hill, giving you stunning views of sloping hills as well as St.

Go off the beaten path and take a cycling tour of the island: explore the mangroves in west Tobago, Chala's trail in the north or go extreme through the Main Ridge Forest Reserve. More than a beach, Store Bay has a craft market that's the home for local artisan creations. A cool stroll will bring you to exquisitely carved statues and jewelry, clothing, hand-crafted soaps and scents, tropical wines, and other fascinating finds that will keep your memories of Tobago fresh for years to come.

Take a private couples' yoga session where together you can unwind, rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul in the serenity of Tobago's natural surroundings. Become truly inspired when you visit this historic and fairytale castle which exhibits art and larger than life-size sculptures depicting perfect portraits of beautiful Tobagonians.

The chirping birds, sneaky crabs, whistling breezes and cracking branches adds life to this mysterious and scenic walk through the mangroves of Petit Trou Lagoon. Tobago is home to a number of picturesque locations to exchange vows. Who wouldn't want to tie the knot on a cove that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean?

The idyllic village of Charlotteville comes alive with anglers from all over to world for fast fun fishing for both amateurs and professionals. Experience the rhythmic vibrations of the tamboo bamboo and folk songs which add flavor to the street process which starts from the river to the village's Cocoa House. Dance the cocoa and trek through the village for the treasure hunt.

You can't visit Tobago and not get some surfing in. Mount Irvine Beach is widely known as the best surf location on the island, adorned with beach cabanas amongst beautiful almond trees right on the shore. The profusion of colorful schools of fish and strikingly beautiful coral make this spot great for underwater photography and gives this beach the title as the best for snorkeling. Held annually in April, the jazz concert promises a marvelous experience that boasts of being "more than music", combining the sweet sounds of local and world-renowned artists with stunning beach-front views.

From Crown Point to Charlotteville, pick a spot in paradise for that lunchtime or evening picnic for two. Enjoy your stay in Tobago and make an impact at the same time by giving back.

Volunteerism plays a major role in keeping the island unspoilt and untouched so give back at any of our wildlife reserves, children homes, animals shelters or even replant coral reef. Have a private bonfire on No Man's Land, or connect with new people and go to the weekly beach bonfire party that takes place every Thursday in the fishing village of Castara. Everyone agrees that the combination of good vibes, people, music food and drinks make for a memorable night.

Journey through the estate and learn about the history of cocoa and participate in the fermentation and drying activities at the estate. As the tour goes on, participate in a rum and chocolate tasting session after an evening of dinner that showcases the local cuisine of Tobago. Friendship Estates offers a more rugged experience of riding and bonding with nature and your partner.

A stone's throw away is the estate's own secluded Friendship Beach, which makes for a great cool down after an afternoon of riding. A visit between January and September will grant you a chance of a lifetime to see female turtles come to shore to nest or tiny hatchlings scurry their way to the ocean soon after eggs are hatched. Whether you want to want to go snorkeling, jets skiing, take a glass-bottom boat tour or just want to enjoy a lazy day at the beach, Pigeon Point Beach is the place to begin your aquatic journey in Tobago.

The mystery tombstone of Betty Stiven remains one of the oldest tales of lore on the island. Everyone has their own theory based on the esoteric words inscribed on her grave.