All the Caribbean islands are beautiful, but there is something very special about Tobago which makes visitors return time and time again. It has justifiably been called "Paradise" and "Robinson Crusoe" Island.

Tobago is unspoilt and has no high-rise hotels or commercialism. It is south of the hurricane belt, has empty beaches, fabulous snorkelling and scuba diving with 10,000 year old spectacular coral reefs, championship golf and fishing, an abundance of bird and wildlife and boasts the oldest protected rainforest in the western hemisphere. There are no poisonous snakes, spiders or dangerous sharks to worry about and virtually no crime. It is an all year round holiday destination as the so-called rainy season (June to December) is not only the cheapest time to visit but, in our opinion, the best time. The sea is warmer, tropical rain usually falls in short, sharp bursts, after which brilliant sunshine and blue skies return.

It is situated just north of the Equator and used to be part of South America. It is home to wildlife normally only found on the geographical mainland. The climate is warm and sunny with fresh trade winds and average temperatures of 25-30C (86F).

(click on map for larger version)

Tobago is a tiny island - only 26 miles by 7 miles wide with a population of about 50,000. The Tobagonians are friendly, talented and dignified people who truly like nothing more than to welcome visitors and tell them about their wonderful country.

English is the language spoken. The currency is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, supermarkets and car rental companies. Banks offer ATMs which accept international cards. Electricity is 110/220 volts AC, 60Hz. Plugs are the 2 flat pin type, as in the USA. Tobago is 4 hours behind the UK British Winter GMT. Flight time is about 8 hours from England (try booking online with www.expedia.co.uk and Excel Airlines - www.travelrepublic.co.uk as we have found these to be the cheapest flights).

Things to do:
The Tobago Carnival takes place during February when the island goes wild with song, dance and costume. Flights and accommodation tends to be very booked up at this time so book early!

In May, Angostura Tobago Sail Week is a regular event with participants from all over the world.

The Tobago Heritage Festival takes place from mid July to 1st. August giving a glimpse into Tobago's past, its traditions and its beliefs. Activities occur daily, moving from village to village with song, dance and drama such as an Ole Time Wedding, a Wake, Bongo and the famous Goat and Crab Races.

Tobago is rich in history. There are several forts on the island and you will want to visit Fort George and the museum.

The Island has the oldest protected rainforest reserve and many old plantations. There are spectacular waterfalls and a variety of historical sites to visit. Bird watching is a major attraction, with a vast array of beautiful local birds. Mountain bike hire can be arranged or horseback rides on the beach.

Tobago is renowned for its beautiful pristine sandy beaches where all manner of water sports can be enjoyed. Scuba diving, snorkeling (especially in The Coral Gardens within the spectacular Buccoo Reef), sailing and cruising are all readily available with several local boat owners offering glass bottomed boat trips, hobie cat sailing, water skiing, wake boarding, kite surfing and kayaking. Or you could try the thrill of big game fishing, deep sea fishing, bottom/wreck fishing and fly fishing. A special feature of Tobago is turtle watching, as the Giant Leatherback Turtle nests on the Stonehaven and Courland beaches between March and August.

Night Life
The "Sunday School" in Buccoo is not to be missed and refers not to a religious experience but to the island's hottest weekend event - an open air dance and music event next to Buccoo beach. The evening starts off around 9pm with a fabulous show by the Buccooneers, one of Tobago's steel pan bands. Then the reggae and calypso starts. Beer and rum are cheap and there are barbecue and street food stalls. The local shops and small stall holders stay open until late. It is THE place where tourists of all ages can meet the locals and just party. Do not miss it!

Several of the hotels and restaurants offer evening entertainment, such as the Golden Star near Pigeon Point or Diver's Den in Bon Accord with great food, music and fun right through the night. There are a few casinos on the island, as well as numerous excellent restaurants.