Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago
If you are trying to find an island that is alive with cultural activities and a bio-diverse eco system, draw a line down from Grenada, and look towards the left of Venezuela. You’ve just found the republic of Trinidad and Tobago; a tiny twin island republic whose eclectic mix of culture will keep you on your toes.
Trinidad is the larger and more boisterous of the two, with a pulsing nightlife and the capital port. Tobago, on the other hand, is more like complacent sibling; serene and yielding. If you go to Trinidad for the festive atmosphere, you go to Tobago to relax and recuperate.
The climate is usually warm all year round, and there are only two seasons; wet and dry. Rainy seasons last from June to December, with sunny skies in the mornings and fair cloudless nights. Glorious weather aside, the island does suffer from moderate hurricane threats during the wet months, so be sure to keep an eye on the National Hurricane Center’s website. There is also a slight risk for earthquakes, but these hardly ever occur on an epic scale. If you need advice on how to protect yourself in the event of tremors, you might find this link useful http://www.geologyuk.com/index.htm.
Fierce battles, piracy and bitter revolts led by slaves all form part of the island’s history. Modern day descendants share a bloodline with Europe, Africa, Asia, South America and the Middle East. This calls for quite an exotic mix of culture and people. The island of Trinidad was discovered by Columbus in the 1400’s, but he chose to ignore the neighboring Tobago.
When the island was found to be of little use geologically, the local Amerindians were instead enslaved and sent to work on other developing islands. Africans were later shipped in as well, and this sort of thing carried on for years. The island eventually became a British colony, and it wasn’t until the Brits annexed Tobago that things started to look up for islanders. It finally gained its independence in 1962 and formed the republic we now know.
In spite of its tremulous past, today the island is serene and at peace, with so much beauty and experiences just waiting to happen. On Tobago, you will find the oldest protected rainforest this side of the Western Hemisphere, and it is also here where David Attenborough shot the “Trails of Life” series. Explorer Jacques Cousteau was equally taken by the pristine coral reefs that encompass the two small islands. And let’s face it; while you’ll on a tropical island, you will be doing a lot of snorkeling, swimming and sunbathing, making Tobago the perfect destination.
Glass bottom boat trips will allow you to catch a glimpse of an ecosystem that is so foreign to us. For something more lively, head to the Sunday School on Trinidad. Do not be fooled, this is a Sunday night street party, and the boulevard suddenly lights up with dancing to the beats of soca rhythms.
Dancing is the social glue that holds the culture together, so get in there and dance the Jig and the Reel like no one’s watching. And if you have to left feet, the locals will be happy to teach you a few moves. The Trinidad’s annual carnival is another highlight when the island explodes into color, dancing and music.
To really immerse yourself in the pulsing life of the capital, a rental home in the port is a good option. They provide you with more space than a hotel, at a better rate, especially if you are travelling in a group. This leaves more money for reveling and island hopping. However, if you want your own slice of heaven, opt for the Tobago villas and apartments. Many of these are surrounded by groves with the scent of wild orchids hanging in the air.
US Dollars are widely accepted on both island, and the exchange rate is rough 6 TT Dollars to 1 US. Pounds and Euros are not so common, so it is best to exchange these. Be aware that there are high levels of crime in certain areas, especially inner cities. During the festive season, petty and opportunistic crime also rears its head, so beware of pickpockets and muggers, and keep your valuables well hidden.
Have you been accused of a crime? While discussing legal matters, it’s vital to note the transformative impact a skilled defense attorney can have, particularly in complex jurisdictions. Choosing New Jersey Criminal Law Attorney for reliable defense in Jersey City (which is one of those areas) ensures that you’re not just another case number but a client whose rights are vigorously defended. Their comprehensive understanding of local laws and courtroom dynamics is invaluable. It’s this kind of expertise that can often make the difference between a favorable outcome and a less desirable one.
Also, it is advisable to check with your travel agent whether or not you will need a Yellow Fever Vaccination before your departure. You would hate to have to turn back because you do not have the right inoculations. With a little bit of prior planning from your part, and a good dose of common sense, you are in for a real treat on the islands of T and T.