Trinidad and Tobago...Exploring Tobago!

Trinidad's sister isle, Tobago is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches and coral reefs! It is definitely a vacation destination to completely surrender yourself to the warmth of the Caribbean. Let's explore this beautiful island!

1. Pigeon Point

Pigeon Point beach remains one of the most popular beaches on the island and should definitely be on your checklist when visiting Tobago! Unwind on this beautiful beach whilst sipping on a cocktail or beastly cold beer available from one of the many beach bars or satisfy your hunger and enjoy the popular Tobago delicacies Crab and Dumpling or Curry Conch! As a Trini, there is nothing like relaxing in Pigeon Point and appreciating the beauty of the sister isle!

2. Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool

The Buccoo Reef is the largest coral reef on the island and definitely the most frequently visited! You can book an excursion tour on a glass bottom boat at Store Bay or Pigeon Point. The reef boasts a vast and spectacular array of vibrantly coloured aquatic life; sea turtles, parrot fishes, angel fishes and 40 species of corals. On a tour through the Buccoo Reef, the boats usually stop off at the world famous Nylon Pool, an offshore sandbar which has formed a beautiful, clear pool in the middle of the ocean.

3. Argyle Falls

Take a short 15 minutes hike to visit this stunning three-tiered waterfall and swim in the pools at its base! The Argyle Falls is a popular site to check out when you're vacationing in Tobago! In my visit to these falls I thoroughly enjoyed this experience, the falls are indeed beautiful! Have you visited?

4. Fort King George

This beautiful historic fort is well preserved and is a strong reminder of Tobago's colonial past. The Fort was built by the British but changes many hands over time before finally being reclaimed once again by its first owners. Fort King George stands above Scarborough majestically over looking the Caribbean Sea and includes a Museum on its compound displaying artefacts from its Amerinidian heritage and colonial pasts.

5. Charlotteville

This quaint fishing village is situated on the eastern point of the island and follows a winding road with beautiful scenery along its route! It's bay is quiet but beautiful with fishing pirogues jotting the background. A trip to Charlotteville definitely makes a nice road trip but as long as you're there don't miss the opportunity to discover Pirate's Bay. A track is situated at the base of the fishing village and requires a 15 minutes walk to the beach! The walk may be a little daunting but the views along the trail is spectacular and Pirate's Bay is truly a treasure!

6. Nightlife

If you're looking for nightlife activities Tobago is no different from it's sister isle, Trinidad. There are many options available, en route to Pigeon Point, take a stop and enjoy a drink at Bago's Bar while listening to the waves crashing in the background, absolutely beautiful! At Store Bay/Pigeon Point junction, bar hop at Jade Monkeys and the nearby bars around. Tobago is an isle of great vibes! If you're looking for a night of pumping, the Shades nightclub is a definite stop, where the vibes continues all night with the music by its talented DJs.

Trinidad and Tobago...Exploring Trinidad!

Trinidad and Tobago...my home! T&T has so many to offer for anyone visiting these vibrant isles! Beaches are not the only thing one can look forward to when looking to explore but can also find activities for the nature seekers and events for the party goers! Let's travel beautiful T&T! On the first part of the journey we will explore Trinidad, check out Tobago in part two!

1. Caroni Bird Sanctuary

The Caroni Bird Sanctuary is a place for the nature seekers, bird watchers where one can spot the radiant Scarlet Ibis, the national bird of Trinidad. The mangroves are home to several thousand Scarlet Ibises and at sunset, the Scarlet Ibis forms a beautiful sight as they flock to the Caroni mangroves to roost. The best time to visit is at the end of the day where you can book a boat tour through the mangroves and if you're lucky you can see Caimans basking on the banks!

2. Maracas Beach

Maracas, the popular beach destination one can visit to enjoy a "Bake and Shark" or argued by some as "Shark and Bake" however you call it, the dish is worth trying! On your journey to Maracas, take a stop at the look out, a beautiful spot for picture opportunities as well as a chance to try some spicy Trini chow and  sweet delicacies like sugar-cake and fudge. After bellies are filled and happy :), bask on the beautiful bay, hugged by the hills of the Northern range and enjoy some Trini sun!

 
3. Pitch Lake

This unique site is the largest natural asphalt lake in the world! The lake covers approximately half a square kilometre and produces some of the world's finest asphalt. During the rainy season, one can take a dip in of the natural springs which is rumoured to have healing properties!

4. Turtle Watching

Turtle watching is a beautiful event to witness where massive endangered leatherback turtles travel to the land where they were born to give life. At Grande Rivere, one can take a tour, the location is the second largest leatherback turtle nesting site in the world! Nesting season runs from March-August and is definitely worth a visit.

 
5. Gasparee Caves

Gasparee Caves is housed on the Gaspar Grande Island, the largest island off Chaguaramas. Taking a trip to "Down d Islands" to visit the caves a worth a trip! The caves are lined with stalagmites and stalactites, legend has it pirates have buried treasures in this delightful spot! The electric blue waters of the Blue Grotto makes the caves a beautiful spot to visit!

6. D Avenue (Ariapita Avenue)

D place to ketch a vibes! The Avenue is a strip of bars and restaurants located on Ariapita Avenue where one can bar hop along the many entertainment hot spots! If you're looking for a street vibes, take a stop at Frankie's or Brooklyn Bar and have an icy, cold beer! However, if you're ready to dress up and party in style, take a stop at Aria's, Coco Lounge, Stumblin', Nuvo Sera or Rosccos. After a night out on d Av, try one of the many delicious street foods available, Trini Doubles, Gyros and Burgers!

7. Carnival

 Trinidad Carnival is ultimately dubbed "The greatest show on Earth!" The annual festival is filled with many fetes (parties) held a month or two before culminating to the most anticipated event for many Trinis and visitors alike, who travel to participate and play mas! There are many fetes to suit each party goer ranging from cooler fetes (my personal favourite) where one can take their personal coolers into the party and enjoy the vibes of the fete, no need for the bar unless you run out of ice! However, there are all-inclusive fetes where drinks and food are included, drink to your merry while you fete the night away!

The las lap event before masqueraders hit the road is J'ouvert! Imagine following music trucks through the streets of Port-of-Spain in the wee hours of the morning where revellers enjoy this pre-Carnival pump covered in paint and cocoa!

And the road show begins! Carnival Monday and Tuesday, the two day festivities where the streets of Port-of-Spain form the stage for the greatest show on Earth! Carnival bands filled with costumed masqueraders chip through the streets in rhythm to sweet soca music! The revellers are decked off in colourful costumes producing a beautiful sight for the onlookers! There are many popular Carnival bands where one can "play mas", if you're thinking of partaking you can consider playing with Tribe, Bliss, Fantasy, Harts or Island People. Each band offers their masqueraders a unique experience on the road but personally you can check me wining down low in Tribe!

 

 

 

 

Have you ever visited beautiful Trinidad? What are your views?

 

Sandals...the Premiere Adults All-Inclusive Resort

I have had the wonderful opportunity of vacationing at the Sandals Halycon Resort, St. Lucia and all I can say is that the Sandals experience has made it very difficult for me to vacation any other way! The Sandals experience can simply be described as an ultra-all-inclusive...taking care of every need one may have. What makes Sandals so unique and special? The popular resort chain is adults only making it a top honeymoon resort or a place to reconnect with that special someone set in 24 properties in 7 beautiful Caribbean destinations!

My little vacation at St. Lucia was so memorable...where do I start!! I selected St. Lucia as my destination of choice primarily for the Stay in One-Play in All feature that Sandals offered at this island. Essentially, I stayed at my selected resort but was able to dine and enjoy the amenities of the other two resorts (Sandals La Toc and Sandals Grande St Lucian) which was located a mere 10 minutes drive away! Let me share my amazing experience with you!

Beaches and Water Activities:

Each resort offers a beautiful stretch of Caribbean turquoise blue waters with beach chairs and cabanas available in abundance! The Sandals experience have included many water activities to ensure your vacation is adventure filled! I tried water skiing but to the humour of my better half, I failed terribly (not like he did any better:) We both however thoroughly enjoyed venturing out on the hobie cats, sailing, kayaking and the off-site snorkelling opportunities!

 

Food:

For every food lover, the Sandals experience will definitely not disappoint!!! I think I left this trip with not only great memories but also with a few more pounds!! With the play in 3 program, I had access to 23 restaurants! Do you blame me for being food happy? One of my favourite experiences included the French white gloved restaurant LaToc where I had my first try at escargot (being picky this was a huge deal for me but boy did I enjoy it!) Sandals usually offer many dining options to suit your every craving, Italian, Seafood specialty restaurants, Caribbean, Asian and of course French!

Amenities:

The other amazing amenities provided by Sandals included many pools  and hot tubs set in throughout each property! Drinks are available at multitude bars where you are served by friendly, gracious staff and if you rather have your drink at one of the fire pits to add to your romance, just ask for two glasses and a bottle! Or just take a swim at one of the swim up pool bars and sip that delicious cocktail while chilling in the pool (try the Bob Marley)! Each resort have many nightly entertainment options if you wish to have a party style night out! I tell you Sandals really cater for your every mood!

 For those who are PADI qualified can experience unlimited scuba excursions, however a small certified course can be completed if you are not a holder of a PADI certificate. I think I will definitely take advantage on my next trip! There are fitness facilities provided at each resort if you wish to work out the extra pounds gained from the Sandals experience! In addition, the RedLane Spa ensures that you are fully pampered and rejuvenated in your vacation escape!


I have already booked my next Sandals vacay....Sandals Ochi is up next, the countdown is on! Share your Sandals experience, are you obsess just as I am?!

Are All-Inclusives Your Style?

The increase in competition for Caribbean vacationers have risen over time where it is becoming increasingly common to find all-inclusive packages in various price categories available throughout the year. What is meant by an all-inclusive? The package generally consists of accommodation, food and drinks included in one price. The various price categories will be an indication of the level options that may be available for example number of restaurants, pools, adults only, premium drinks etc. In shopping around you should note whether free airport transfers are provided, finding out too late can be an upsetting way to start your vacay!

 

Let's take a look at some common featured All-Inclusive resorts.

 

 

 

Which All-inclusive resort have you visited that you were impressed with all its offerings..food, rooms, amenities etc.?

Vacation on a Budget

The Caribbean as a destination is filled with many options for those wishing to do it on a budget. However, in making a selection there are many things to consider:
 

1. Flights
I believe choosing a destination that you can get there on low airfare is the first step in the process. It's very helpful to not just shop via a travel agency but also to explore deals that are available online using some resourceful websites listed below:
 

Expedia Travel Site  www.expedia.com

Caribbean Online www.col.com
Cheap Caribbean www.cheapcaribbean.com
 

2. Accommodation
Now that you may have narrowed down the destination, where will you be staying? For some islands such as Tobago and Barbados, there are many small reasonable hotels to consider that may be a short distance from beach access. I have seen a common trend lately of some of these hotels offering an all-inclusive option that caters for the budget-minded travellers, taking away the stress of where to dine.

3. Car rentals
I believe it's always a good idea to do this piece of research regarding car rentals. If you're anything like me, where you love to take advantage and explore the place you're visiting to get a true feel and experience, then renting a car should be part of your consideration. Driving to distant attraction sites, restaurants and beaches, this can all be planned in advance where you rent the car for part of your trip. When you consider the cost of some tours, I think grabbing a map and renting a vehicle may prove to be more economical and adventurous! In my trip to Barbados doing exactly this is what made my vacation one to remember!

4. Food
In planning a budget trip, the cost of food is certainly a consideration. Each island this budget may vary however, a good tip to remember is try to dine where the locals do! The food will be locally priced and if the locals flock there then it will be a great indication of how good the food is! In my visit to Tobago this could not be anymore True! I usually sample my crab and dumpling from the popular Store bay beach vendors however I was introduced to where the locals buy from, Barters! His little food place is located opposite the Royal Castle near Pigeon Point junction but I promise you this is definitely home cook styled! Value for your money too!

 

What factors aid in your decision when planning a budget vacation? I would love to hear your tips!

Jamaica...the North Coast!

When one imagine this beautiful isle...the beaches definitely comes to mind and the North coast offers extraordinary idyllic postcard worthy beaches! However, this region of Jamaica also offers many attractions for the nature and adventure seekers...a bit of everything! I will journey with you through the beaches and attractions of Negril, Montego Bay and Ochos Rios.

 

1. Negril Seven Mile Beach...the name says it all! Can you imagine vacationing on this gorgeous strip of Caribbean sea? Somebody pass me a drink while I unwind! The seven miles are dotted with many hotels where you can easily find one that fits your budget.

 

 

 

2. Negril Cliff...this beautiful geological formation juts out into the aqua blue waters of the Caribbean offering rewarding snorkelling experiences. However, the location is known for the world famous Rick's Cafe...renowned not for its drinks but rather for the thrill of cliff diving! Are you an adrenaline junkie? If yes....then a trip to the cliffs is a definite must!

 

 

 

3. Blue Hole Mineral Spring Ochos Rios...for those who wish to luxuriate in a natural underground mineral limestone bath, this will worth your while! Blue Hole is considered a hidden gem of the north coast offering beautiful caves and waterfalls to explore...if you have ever visited, will you recommend adding to one's itinerary?

 

 

 

4. Dunn's River Falls and Park Ochos Rios...this iconic attraction is a must! Explore Dunn's by trekking up the layered rocks that forms the river falls, a beautiful place to experience and you can relax afterwards in the refreshing pools at the top! I would suggest walking with aqua shoes to help your grip on the rocks as well as zip-lock bags to protect whatever you're carrying in your pockets!

 

 

 

5. Dolphin Cove Ochos Rios...ever wanted to swim or be up-close to these beautiful sea creatures? Dolphin Cove offers a truly magical experience offering various packages to suit your budget and desire; dolphin encounter, swim with the dolphins, dolphin trainer for a day? Have you ever visited? Share your experiences!  I am a dolphin lover and I am definitely putting this on my list for my next Jamaica trip!

 

 

 

6. Rose Hall Great House Montego Bay...for those who enjoy history and learning the past of a place, this great house offers a glimpse of the sugar plantation era of old Jamaica. In addition, the tale of the house is told renders Rose Hall as a mysterious site. The views offered from the great house is absolutely breath taking, so don't forget your camera guys! 

 

 

7. Doctor's Cave Beach...one of the most popular beaches in the Montego Bay area! The beach is public with a nominal entry fee of $6usd however it's worth it! A safe, beautiful beach to unwind in with gorgeous picturesque views of the Caribbean! It's definitely a spot to relax with a cold Red Stripe!