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2. 2. CONTENTS Welcome 5 T&T: the facts 11 Travellers tips7 Events calendar17Discover Tobago Economy44 Accommodation 24Festivals45 Arts & entertainment29Shopping 49 Beaches 32Sightseeing52 Dining36Sports 56 Eco adventure 39Weddings 59Discover TriniDaD Economy96 Accommodation 62Festivals99 Arts & culture70Nightlife 103 Beaches 74Shopping105 Carnival76Sightseeing 110 Dining82Spas116 Eco adventure 91Sports121index125Maps128Editor: Caroline Neisha Taylor Consulting editor: Jeremy Taylor Design: Aisha Provoteaux Sales: Denise Chin, Samantha Rochard, Jacqueline Smith Writers: Laura Dowrich-Phillips, Onika Henry, Christine Schofield, Caroline Neisha Taylor Editorial assistant: Mirissa De Four Production: Joanne Mendes, Jacqueline Smith Cover Abir colours used during Phagwa (Edison Boodoosingh)A publication of Media & Editorial Projects Ltd. (MEP) 6 Prospect Avenue, Maraval, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago T (868) 622-3821 F (868) 628-0639 E info@discovertnt.com W www.discovertnt.com And connect with us online on: Facebook www.facebook.com/discovertnt Twitter www.twitter.com/meppublishers our Blog http://discovertnt.blogspot.comAbove A hiker stands at the 2010 Media & Editorial Projects (MEP) Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may entrance of the Aripo Caves be reproduced in any form whatsoever without the prior written consent of the publisher. (Brian Kinzie)1
3. 3. WElCOmE! Congratulations on choosing to explore the unique Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago, and thank you for allowing us to guide you on your journey. It might take a lifetime to truly experience all that the islands have to offer, but we can at least show you where to start! abouT T&T house are all locally based, uses significantly less energy and These two Caribbean islands so that our success ultimately paper during production. have retained their individualbenefits the local community. characters, undiluted by large-We are also mindful of our explore scale tourism. In both Trinidad carbon footprint. Starting withThe introductory section of this and Tobago, distinct as they are, our 2009 edition, weve focusedbook gives you an overview of the you will find a spectacular natural our print publication on the history and lifestyle of both islands environment and a creative andmost important information you together as a nation, before self-reliant people, brimming withneed on the go, while publishing helping you to discover what humour and candour. additional information on ourmakes each island special. Tobago is perfect for an idyllicwebsite and saving 2.2 millionSo whether you are from a beach getaway, an escape into pages of paper over the last two neighbouring town or a distant nature, or heart-pounding eco years. We have also adopted thecountry, we welcome you. There is adventures on land or at sea. latest printing technology, whichso much to discover! Trinidad, meanwhile, is the economic powerhouse (based on oil and gas), with a unique culture that spawns dynamic creative STaNdardS & FEEdbaCk industries and world-renowned The countrys tourism authorities run an annual inspection festivals like Carnival. programme called the Trinidad & Tobago Tourism IndustryCertification (TTTIC). A special logo is used to indicate approval. abouT Discover Current information can be found at www.gotrinidadandtobago. This is the 21st edition ofcom. Advertising in Discover is open to anybody, but that does Discover, the trusted guide to T&T,not imply editorial endorsement or participation in the TTTIC produced by people who knowprogramme; use of advertisers services is at your own discretion this country and care aboutand risk. getting it right. Every effort has been made to ensure that information is By trusting Discover, you cancorrect at press time. But things change swiftly, so we can make be sure that you are investing no guarantees about its continued accuracy. If you have any in the islands: our contributors,suggestions or queries, we would be delighted to hear from you. production team and printingAbove A magnificent owl butterfly distracts predators by mimicking the head of a lizard (Brian Kinzie) 5
4. 4. TravEllErS TipS International travel air: scheduled flights are operated by Aeropostal, American Airlines, British Airways, Caribbean Airlines, Condor, Continental, Copa, Delta, LIAT, Monarch, Suriname Airways, and Virgin Atlantic. Others offer charter flightssea: the peak cruise ship season is NovemberApril, with visits from Fred Olsen, Holland America, Ocean Village, Princess, Saga Travel, Seabourn, and Windstar lines enTry requireMenTs: you need a passport valid for three months beyond intended stay. Non-residents require documentation of return orsea: daily inter-islandservice between Port of SpainGround transport onward travel and a valid localand Scarborough operatedThe Public Transportation Service address. Visas are generally not by Port Authority of Trinidad & Corporation (PTSC: www.ptsc. required for visits up to 30 days. Tobago (www.patnt.com), and co.tt) operates scheduled bus For yacht arrivals, clearancewater taxi service betweenservices (TT$212) alongside certificate from last port ofPort of Spain and San privately operated, unscheduled call and vessels registration Fernando operated by National maxi and route taxis (TT$215). certificate (or authorisation forInfrastructure DevelopmentLegal, registered taxis have licence use) requiredCompany (www.trinywatertaxi.plates beginning with H and arecom): unmetered; confirm fare in advanceDomestic air & Warrior Spirit (5.5hrs): airporT Transfers:sea bridges TT$160 (cabin), TT$75 return (economy), children 3-11authorised taxis operate outsidearrivals halls at Piarco and Crown years half price Point airports; check approved air: daily flights between T&T Express and T&T Spirit rates (on display at the taxi Trinidad and Tobago (20 mins, (2.5hrs): TT$100 return, stands) TT$300 round trip) on Caribbean children 3-11 years half price Airlines (625-7200, www. Water Taxi (45mins): TT$15buses: operate from hubs caribbean-airlines.com) one wayin Port of Spain, Chaguanas, Above A Caribbean Airlines Dash-8 comes in for a sunset landing at Crown Point, Tobago (Giancarlo Lalsingh) 7
5. 5. Edison Boodoosingh and Kings Wharf, San Fernando Chacon Street Maxi-Taxis: 1225 (Trinidad); and Sangsters Hill, Curepe-Sangre Grande: lower Henryseat minibuses, similar set Scarborough (Tobago) Street routes, departing downtown Diego Martin/Petit Valley: Port of Spain from City Gate; car renTal: local andAbercromby StreetSan Fernando from the Stand international companies operate Maraval: Duke and Charlotteon Chancery Lane; and lower nationwide:StreetsScarborough opposite the port. Budget: 669-1635, San Fernando: Broadway and Bright colour bands indicate www.budget.com South Quay service areas: Frankies (Tobago): 631-0369, San Juan: lower Charlotte Street Black (San FernandoPrinces www.frankietours-tobago.com St Anns/St James: Hart StreetTown): connections to Mayaro Kalloos (Trinidad): 622-9073, Wrightson Road/Long Circular Road: Blue (throughout Tobago) www.kalloos.comlower Chacon Street Brown (San FernandoLa Shermans (Tobago): 639-2292, Chaguaramas: Park and St VincentRomaineSipariaPoint Fortin) www.shermansrental.com Streets Green (Port of SpainCurepe Thrifty (Tobago): 639-8507,In Chaguanas (Trinidad): ChaguanasSan Fernando): www.thrifty.com Couva (and nearby towns): higherruns from City Gate; lower endSouthern Main Roadof Southern Main Road (forrouTe Taxis: stop to pick Curepe: Chaguanas Main Road San Fernando) and Eleanor up or put down as necessary, Port of Spain: lower Southern Street (for Port of Spain) in servicing specific routes from Main Road Chaguanas designated taxi stands: In San Fernando (Trinidad): Red (Port of SpainArima): In Port of Spain (Trinidad): All areas: The Stand, car parkconnections to Blanchisseuse, Cascade: Charlotte and Prince parallel Chancery Laneand Matelot via Sangre GrandeStreetsIn Scarborough (Tobago): Yellow (Port of SpainDiego Chaguanas: South Quay, opposite Carrington StreetMartinChaguaramas) 8 Discover Trinidad & Tobago 2010 www.discovertnt.com
6. 6. privaTe Taxis: listings available in the Yellow Pages Emergency Numbers Ambulance (public hospitals): 811Tour operaTors: see CrimeStoppers: 800-TIPS, advertiser directorywww.crimestopperstt.com EMS(emergencymedicalservices): 624-4343 (north Trinidad),general inforMaTion653-4343 (south/central Trinidad), 639-4444 (Tobago) Division of Tourism Fire:990(Tobago House of Assembly, HyperbaricMedicalFacility:660-4369 (Roxborough, Tobago)Scarborough): 639-2125, www. OfficeofDisasterPreparedness: 640-1285 (Trinidad),visittobago.gov.tt 660-7489 (Tobago) Immigration Division: 625- Police: 999 (Trinidad); 639-2520/5590 (Tobago)3571 (Trinidad), 639-2681(Tobago), www.immigration.gov.tt Ministry of Tourism (Port Ship Complex, Tobago); 669- Kidnapping hotline: 623-6793of Spain): 624-1403, www. 5196 (Piarco Airport) Lifeline (suicide prevention):tourism.gov.tt ttconnnect (Trinidad & Tobago 645-2800, 645-6616 Tobago House of Assemblygovernment online): www.gov.tt National AIDS hotline: 800-(Scarborough): 639-3421,4448, www.aidsline.ttwww.tha.gov.ttHelp neTworks National Family Services: Tourism Development Childline: 800-4321, www. 624-8218 (Trinidad), 639-Company (Barataria, Trinidad):ttcadv.net1512 (Tobago)675-7034, www.tdc.co.tt, www. Domestic violence hotline: Rape Crisis Society: 622-gotrinidadandtobago.com 800-SAVE7273 (Port of Spain), 657- Tourist Information offices: Families in Action5355 (San Fernando)639-0509 (Crown Point hotline: 628-2333, www. Rebirth House (substanceAirport); 635-0934 (Cruisefamiliesinaction.netabuse): 623-09529
7. 7. prECauTiONS Like much of the world, the islands are affected by crime, particularly Trinidad.Always: drive with extreme care and practise defensive driving; leave valuables (jewellery, money, passports, credit cards, etc) at home or well concealed; walk in company; lock your vehicle; lock your room/house door; keep windows closed at night or if you are going out; be aware of your surroundings; raise an alarm and head to the nearest police station if you suspect you are being followedNever: venture into deserted or unfamiliar areas alone; wear extravagant jewellery; leave handbags or wallets lying around; use an ABM if you sense someone suspicious nearby (if your card gets stuck, call the bank immediately); leave laptop computers or other valuables in your car; leave car windows down when stopping, especially at night; engage in any altercations with strangers SuSTaiNablE TravEl Both climate change and globalisation can hit developing island nations particularly hard. Heres what you can do to safeguard the islands natural and cultural treasures:Buy local: buy local CDs, books and DVDs from authorised retailers (not pirated copies); and purchase locally produced food and souvenirs (not any made from endangered species)Fly carbon neutral: most airlines allow you to offset carbon dioxide emissions from your flightMind your gas: choose the smallest vehicle to suit your needs when renting (or buying) a car; drive within the speed limit; dont let your car idle; keep your tires inflated; try to carpool; and when you can, walk or cycleRecycle: Ace, Carib Glass, Piranha, and SWMCOL process plastic, glass, aluminium, paper, cardboard and electronics (e-waste); some sponsor receptacles around the islands. The International School of Port of Spain also runs a recycling programmeReduce: turn off electrical devices when you dont need them; avoid plastic bags and styrofoam; buy and consume only what you need; reuse when you can Right Palm Tanager (Atiba Williams) 10 Discover Trinidad & Tobago 2010www.discovertnt.com
8. 8. Trinidad & Tobago: ThE FaCTS The islandsairporTs: Crown Point International Airport, Tobago (10km/7 miles from Scarborough); Piarco International Airport, Trinidad (27km/17 miles from Port of Spain) capiTal: national capital, Port of Spain (population 45,000; 270,000 metropolitan); Tobago capital, Scarborough (pop 17,000) cliMaTe: tropical. Dry season JanuaryMay, wet JuneDecember (islands just south of hurricane belt). Temperature range 7295F (2235C); average 83F (29C), with 6075% humidity HigHesT poinT: Trinidads El Cerro del Aripo (940m/3,085ft); Tobagos Main Ridge (549m/1,860ft) locaTion: 11N, 61W. Trinidad & Tobago 33km (21 miles) apart, 10km (7 miles) from Venezuelan coast at the nearest point size: Tobago 300km2 (116 sq miles) or 48x16km (30x10 miles). Trinidad 4,828km2 (1,864 sq miles) or 105x80km (65x50 miles)TiMe zone: GMT -4, EST +1 11
9. 9. Media & communications waTer: tap water safe to drink (boil to be safer); bottled water widely available counTry pHone coDe: +868Mail: TTPost national mail service; plus FedEx, Public wi-fi DHL, UPS and others Piarco AirportlanDline TelepHone: Rituals coffee shops (nationwide) Telecommunications Services of Trinidad & Tobago Sweet Lime Restaurant (TSTT) and FLOW (Columbus Communications). Prepaid international phone cards available SocietyMobile TelepHone: bmobile (TSTT) and Digicel operate on GSM networks; prepaid SIMgovernMenT: parliamentary democracy; cards available for unlocked phones ruling party Peoples National Movement under Prime Minister Patrick Manning; President George press: 3 daily national newspapers (Express,Maxwell Richards; United National Congress Guardian, Newsday), 7 weeklies (including TobagoAlliance main opposition News), 1 tri-weekly language: English (official) raDio: 37 FM stations; two AM stations. For all-local fare, try Radio Trinbago 94.7FMpopulaTion: 1.3 million: 40% of Indian descent, 37.5% African, 21.7% mixed. 50,000Television: 12 local stations, five free-to-air(primarily African descent) in Tobago (NCC-4, CCN TV6, Gayelle, CNC3 and C-TV), seven available only via cable (ACTS, IBN, ieTV, Parliamentreligion: Roman Catholic 26%, other Channel, Synergy, Tobago Channel 5, Win-TV); some Christian 31.6%, Hindu 22.5%, Muslim 5.8% only available on one island Practicalities currency: Trinidad & Tobago dollar (TT$); US$1=TT$6.3 Driving: on the left. Trinidad speed limits 80kph (50mph) highways and 55kph (34mph) settled areas; 50kph (32mph) in Tobago. Seatbelts required. Visitors can drive up to 90 days on valid foreign/international licenceselecTriciTy: 115v/230v, 60Hz Money: ABMs (ATMs), credit/debit cards in general use Taxes: 10% room tax + 10% service at hotels; departure tax TT$100; VAT 15% on goods and services (Photo by Martin Farinha) 13
10. 10. Identity we stand, islands of the blueCaribbean Sea. This, our nativeHeroesland, we pledge our lives to coaT of arMs: features thee. Here every creed and race sTepHen aMes: world national birds scarlet ibisfinds an equal place, and may top 25 golfer with three major (Trinidad), cocrico (Tobago) God bless our Nation. (Patrick PGA titles, including historic and hummingbird; three ships Castagne, 1962) victory over all-star field with of Columbus and Trinity Hills Tiger Woods at the Players three sisters peaks; fruited naTional flag: strips Championship (2006) coconut palm native to Tobago; of red (fire, vitality of the sun); and national motto: together we white (water, purity and power ofaTo bolDon: four-time aspire, together we achieve the ocean); and black (earth, one Olympic medallist (2 silver, 2people united on islands soil) bronze for 100m and 200m,naTional anTHeM:1996 and 2000), and 200m Forged from the love of liberty in naTional flower: World Championship gold the fires of hope and prayer, with chaconia (wild poinsettia ormedallist (1997). Current boundless faith in our destiny wepride of Trinidad & Tobago), abroadcaster for NBC in the USA solemnly declare: side by side flaming red forest flowergeorge bovell iii:nations first Olympic medallistin swimming, winning Olympicbronze in the 200m individualmedley (2004)Janelle pennycoMMissiong: MissUniverse 1977Hasely crawforD:nations first Olympic goldmedallist, winning the mens100m dash (1976) Talk dE TalkBacchanal: scandalous, socialcommotion, a rowdy event Fte: party (both noun andverb) Lime: hang out with friends Maco: to be nosy (or someonewho is nosy) Mas: Carnival, masquerade Wine: both a noun andverb, describing sensualTrinbagonian dancing; ask fora demonstration! Above Former Miss Universe 1998 Wendy Fitzwilliam in carnival array (Martin Farinha)14 Discover Trinidad & Tobago 2010 www.discovertnt.com
11. 11. HeaTHer HeaDley: Trinidad-born Tony Award-winning and Grammy-nominated singer and actressclr JaMes: prolific writer, historian, cultural and political figure, and leading voice in Pan- Africanist movementlennox kilgour: Olympic bronze medallist in weightlifting (1952)brian lara: multiple record-holding cricketer with two test match score records (375 runs not out in 1994 and 400 not out in 2004); highest first class score (501 not out, also in 1994); all-time leading run scorer in test cricketgiselle laronDe-wesT: Miss World 1986 resolution for the establishment of the International Josanne lucas: Tobago-born sprinter,Criminal Court and the islands first female World Championship medallist (400m hurdles in 2009) Jizelle salanDy: won her first junior WBA and WBC World Light Middleweight titles in peTer MinsHall: mas designer, multiple2006, adding IWBF and WIBA titles by 2007. Died winner of Band of the Year titles, winner of T&Tstragically in 2009 first Emmy Award for costuming of the 2002 Winter Olympics opening ceremonyleslie Tiger sTewarT: boxer lifted the 1986 WBA Light Heavyweight belt; islands vs naipaul: Trinidadborn, knighted (UK, second World Champion 1990) Nobel Prize winner (Literature, 2000) ricHarD THoMpson: double 2008 clauDe noel: Tobago native and nations Olympic silver medallist (mens 100m dash and first boxing World Champion, lifting the WBAs Worldmens 4x100m relay) and World Championship Lightweight title in 1981 silver medallist (mens 4x100 relay)billy ocean: born Leslie Charles in kwaMe Ture: born Stokely Carmichael Trinidad, international pop star with hits like in Trinidad, former prime minister of the Black Caribbean Queen (1984)Panthers, leader of the All-African Peoples Revolutionary PartyJean pierre: scored the most goals in the 1979 World Netball Championships to lead roDney wilkes: nations first Olympic T&T to victory, the first country to host and win the medallist for weightlifting (silver in 1948, bronze championships in 1952)renny quow: Tobago-born sprinter, winning DwigHT yorke: Tobago-born football star the islands first medal (bronze) in the mens 400m and leading striker for UK teams like Manchester at the World Championships (2009) United and Aston Villa. He was an integral part of Trinidad & Tobagos unsucessful World Cupria raMnarine: nations first female World campaign in 1989. Years later, he captained T&T Champion (2005), and WIBA Mini Flyweight titleto an impressive debut at the 2006 World Cup in holder (2009) Germany, where the islands made history as the smallest country ever to qualify arTHur nr robinson: Former President of the republic, launched UN General Assembly Above Stephen Ames, T&Ts US PGA Tour golf professional (Mark Meredith)15
12. 12. T&T: NOW aNd ThEN THen1884:Hosay Riots in Trinidad; Tobagos sugar c 15,000 islands part of South America; settled by industry collapses -1,000 BC: Amerindians1889-98: Tobago merged with Trinidad; Tobago 1498:Christopher Columbus lands in TrinidadAssembly disbandedon July 31, claims island for Spanish and1903:Water Riots in Port of Spain; Red Housenames it after Catholic Holy Trinityburns down 1596:Tobago claimed by British1908:commercial oil production begins in 16271650: Courlanders settle Tobagos west coastsouthern Trinidadnear Plymouth, and Dutch the east1914:first calypso recorded in Trinidad 1699:Trinidad Amerindians rebel against 1925:first national elections (limited franchise)Capuchin missionaries (Arena Uprising) 1931:Piarco International Airport opens 1757:Trinidads Spanish governor moves capital1935-41: first steelpans emerge in Laventille,to Port of Spain from St Joseph Trinidad 17689:first Tobago Assembly established; 1937:oilfield and labour strikes led in southernScarborough made islands capital Trinidad by Tubal Uriah Buzz Butler 1776:oldest forest reserve in western 1940:Crown Point Airport opens in Tobago;hemisphere designated in Tobago national airline British West Indies Airways 1781:French seize Tobago, convert it to sugar(BWIA) commences operationscolony 1941:Chaguaramas peninsula 1783:Spanish governor Chacns Cedula de1945:public emergence of steelbands; universalPoblacin entices Catholic white and free suffrage implementedcoloured settlers to Trinidad with land1951:repeal of ordinance prohibiting activitiesincentives; rapid development beginsof Spiritual Shouter Baptist faith 1790:great fire of Scarborough destroys much of 1956:self government under Eric Williamsdowntown; hurricane ravages islandPeoples National Movement (PNM) 1797:Trinidad captured by Sir Ralph 1958:islands join Federation of West IndiesAbercrombys British fleet 1960:Trinidad campus of University of the West 1801:massive slave uprising in Tobago quelledIndies (UWI) established 1806:first Chinese workers imported to Trinidad 1962:islands leave Federation, gain 1807:slave trading abolished in British empire independence from Britain 1808:great fire of Port of Spain destroys much1963:Hurricane Flora devastates Tobagoof the city1970:Black Power uprising in Trinidad 1814:Tobago ceded to British under Treaty of1974:Garfield Blackman (Ras Shorty I) releasesParis first soca album 1816:six companies of free blacks from the1976:new republican constitution; presidentUnited States (mainly Baptist) settle inreplaces British monarch as head of statesouthern Trinidad, and one in Tobago 1980:Tobago House of Assembly restored; 1834-8:slavery abolished slaves apprenticedislands enjoy economic prosperity(1834) then emancipated (1838) 1983:oil prices fall, crippling local economy 1834-1917: indentured labour imported to Trinidad 1990:unsuccessful coup attempt by Afro-from other islands, China, Portugal, Syria, Islamist Jamaat al MuslimeenLebanon, and India 1857:first oil well drilled in Trinidad near PitchnowLake 2007:Caribbean Airlines replaces BWIA as 1858-84: Trinidad governor criminalises Carnival national carrier; record oil prices fuelactivitieseconomic boom 1881:Canboulay Riots in Trinidad2008:economic slowdown Opposite page Design by Shurnel at T&T Fashion Week 2009 (Edison Boodoosingh) 16 Discover Trinidad & Tobago 2010www.discovertnt.com
13. 13. Events CalENdar17
14. 14. January 1 (public holiday): New YearsDay Carnival season begins Harvest Festivals (Tobago):Pembroke, Parlatuvier, SpringGarden, Plymouth and MtPleasant Sailing season begins Tobago Carnival Caravan February Carnival countdown begins Harvest Festivals (Tobago):Hope, Adelphi, Buccoo,Franklyn and Bon Accord Tobago Carnival Caravan 12: Soca Monarch finals(Trinidad) 13: Panorama finals (Trinidad) Top Carnival Queens semi-finals: Kadaffi Romney plays Manzandaba In Flight from Africa 14: Dimanche Gras (Trinidad); Her People, Her Glory, Her Tears (CafMoka) Above An Orisha elder and devotee perform a ritual in honour of Oshun at the Ojubo OrisaChinese New Year (year of the Omolu shrine in Chaguanas (Mariamma Kambon)Tiger) 18 Discover Trinidad & Tobago 2010 www.discovertnt.com
15. 15. of the colonial ban on the JuneShouter Baptist faith, afusion of African and Christian Ganga Dhaara River Festival:traditions, with performances honours the descent ofand religious observances Indias sacred River Ganges(Blanchisseuse, Trinidad) Harvest Festivals (Tobago): AprilLambeau, Bloody Bay and 25 (with public holidays): Roxboroughlong Easter weekend features Junior Tobago Heritagehot cross buns, horse racingFestivalat the Santa Rosa track in St Peters Day FishermansArima (Trinidad), and goatFestival (Tobago)and crab races in Tobagos Mt 3 (public holiday): CorpusPleasant (Monday) and BuccooChristi celebrated by Catholics(Tuesday) in honour of the sacramental Jazz Artists on the GreensEucharist(Pigeon Point, Tobago) 412: WeBeat Festival (St Pan Jazz in de Yard James, Trinidad) Harvest Festival (Tobago): 19 (public holiday): LabourGoodwoodDay, marked by trade union Jazz on the Beach (Tobago)marches and gatherings in Pan in the 21st Century Fyzabad (Trinidad) Point Fortin Borough Day(Trinidad): full week of Jouvert,mas, pan and parties July Tobago Jazz Experience Charlotteville Fishermans 11th Annual Trade & Fest (Tobago) 1516: Carnival Monday andInvestment Convention Harvest Festivals (Tobago):Tuesday (Trinidad)Castara and Black Rock Carnival cooldowns Jazz on the Hill (Trinidad) 1921: Tobago Carnival Prime Ministers Charity GolfRegatta (Tobago) MayClassic (Tobago) Beacon Cycling Series Soca for Summer and other Harvest Festivals (Tobago): big concerts featuring local and MarchWhim, Delaford, Belle Gardeninternational stars Argyle Falls cool downand Mason Hall SouthCaribbeanOpenGolf(Tobago) La Divina Pastora (Siparia, Tournament (Tobago) Harvest Festivals (Tobago): Trinidad) Steelpan Music FestivalMt St George, Mason Hall, Maypole Festival (Tobago) (Trinidad)Roxborough, Bon Accord 29: Rainbow Cup Tobago Games Missionary Love Feast inInternational Triathlon Tobago Heritage FestivalMoriah on Palm Sunday (Tobago) Tourism Adventure Park or T&T 20: Jazz Artists on the Greens Taste Trinidad & Tobago:Road Trip: displays, tours, and(St Augustine, Trinidad)celebrates the islands culinarylive entertainment Phagwa (Holi) dexterity 30Aug 4: 11th Great Fte Tobago International Game Tobago Culinary FestivalWeekend (Tobago)Fishing Tournament Rapsofest: the Power of the 47:T&TGolfOpenOral Traditions Turtle nesting season begins Trinidad & Tobago FashionAugust 30 (public holiday): SpiritualWeek 1 (public holiday):Shouter Baptist Liberation 30 (public holiday): Indian Emancipation DayDay commemorates the endArrival Day Arima Borough Day: Jouvert, 19
16. 16. steelpan, calypso and parties the goddess of love, fertilityruns through Decembermarking the boroughs and inland waters (Trinidad)anniversary (Trinidad) 24: Santa Rosa Festival San Fernando Jazz Festival Best Village competition(Arima, Trinidad) (Trinidad)begins, runs through November 31 (public holiday): Tobago Fest: parties, street Carib Great RaceIndependence Dayparade and Jouvert Castara Fishermans Fte Tobago International Gospel(Tobago)Festival Harvest Festival (Tobago): September Trinidad & Tobago FilmSpeyside Eid-ul-Fitr (public holiday)Festival Muhtadi International InternationalOpenWater Turtle watching season endsDrumming Festival: startedSwim 24 (public holiday): Republicin Canada by Trinidad- Horse racing classics inDayborn Muhtadi Thomas, andArima: Royal Oak Derby, Santahighlights different cultures Rosa Oaks and Caribbeanaround the call of the drumsChampion Stakes (Trinidad) October(Tobago) Panyard Sensations 14: Amerindian Heritage OsunRiverFestival: marked Parang season: begins withDay, where descendants fromby Orisa devotees celebrating competition at months end, around the region gather for20 Discover Trinidad & Tobago 2010 www.discovertnt.com 20 Discover Trinidad & Tobago 2010 www.discovertnt.com
17. 17. Opposite page Celebrating Divali in Felicity (Edison Boodoosingh) Above Part of the annual Independence Day Parade (Mariamma Kambon)a smoke ceremony and street Harvest Festivals (Tobago): recreation dayprocession in Arima (Trinidad) Plymouth, Black Rock, Les Paramin Parang Festival Blue Food Festival (Tobago)Coteaux, Moriah, Scarborough, (Trinidad) Coast-2-Coast AdventureMontgomery Tobago Flying Colours: annualRace (Trinidad) Pan is Beautiful XIIkite flying festival in Plymouth European Film Festival Scarborough Cup Golf Hosay (Trinidad)(Trinidad) Tournament (Tobago) 25 (public holiday): Christmas Harvest Festival (Tobago): Tobago Christmas CaravanDayPatience Hill University of the West Indies 26 (public holiday): Boxing National Tourism WeekInternational Half Marathon Day, marked with horse racing Ramleela festival(Trinidad)and parties Steelpan & Jazz Festival(Trinidad)Many dates are set just beforeDecemberthe events are scheduled, and Assembly Day: Tobago House are always subject to change or Novemberof Assembly celebrates cancellation. For more, see our Divali (public holiday)and awards TobagoniansFestivals sections under each Best Village competition achievements, along with island, and visit us online atfinals exhibitions and a sports and www.discovertnt.com 21
18. 18. TObagO The Arnos Vale waterwheel in Tobago (1857) (Mark Meredith)23
19. 19. TObagO hOSpiTaliTy Tobago offers something for everyone. From Where to start the busy southwest to the rainforests of the AbrahamRealty (Scarborough): 639-3325, interior, you can find comfortable, quality www.abrahamrealty.com lodging. BellevisteApartments (Crown Point): 639-9351, You can choose a luxury or budget hotel,www.belleviste.com BlueHavenHotel a beach resort, an elegant villa, a self- (Scarborough): 660-7400, catering apartment, a homely guesthouse,www.bluehavenhotel.com BlueWatersInn(Speyside): or a simple cottage in a quiet fishing660-2583, www.bluewatersinn.com village. Most choices offer airport transfers CrownPointBeachHotel and visitor activities including tours led by (Crown Point): 639-8781, www.crownpointbeachhotel. experienced nature guides.com arounD crown poinT THeMeD HoliDays price & availabiliTy Hotels and resorts are thick onThere are lodgings geared toTobago is working to extend its the ground in Crown Point, nearspecific interests, whether youreaccommodation options. Two the airport, including Blue Haven, on a diving trip (try the Bluenew large hotels are in the works, Crown Point Hotel and Tropikist. Waters Inn in Speyside), a golfingincluding the islands first five-star There are self-catering apartments holiday (luxurious villas like Sans facility at Culloden Reef. at Belleviste and Store Bay HolidaySouci will help you rest up before Until then, make sure you book Resort, and stunning villas like teeing off), or an escape intoahead for traditionally popular those at Stonehaven, Seahorse Innnature (try the Footprints Ecotimes of the year such as Easter, and Plantation Beach Villas a little Resort).Carnival, the Jazz festival and way up the coast.holiday weekends. 24 Discover Tobago 2010www.discovertobago.com
20. 20. FootprintsEcoResort(Golden Lane): 660-0416,www.footprintseco-resort.com OceanPointResort (Lowlands): 639-0973,www.oceanpoint.com PlantationBeachVillas(Black Rock): 639-9377,www.plantationbeachvillas.com SeahorseInn(Black Rock): 639-0686,www.seahorseinntobago.com StoreBayHolidayResort (Crown Point): 639-8810,www.storebayholidays.com TropikistBeachHotel(Crown Point): 639-8512,Crown Point Beach Hotelwww.tropikist.comTel: (868) 639-8781/3 Fax: (868) 639-8731 VillaSansSouci(Lowlands): 639-3325,E-mail: reservations@crownpointbeachhotel.comwww.villassanssouci.com www.crownpointbeachhotel.com VillasatStonehaven Set on seven acres of beautifully landscaped(Black Rock): 639-0361, grounds overlooking Store Bay, we offerwww.stonehavenvillas.comocean view accommodation with kitchenette.The Chart House poolside restaurant andSundowners bar cater for your entire food planTaTion beacH villasand beverage requirements. Recreational The Caribbean sea, a beautiful beach, 6facilities include tennis courts, table tennis, luxurious villas, a grove of trees. Ideal forshuffleboard and free internet facilities for families, weddings and reunions. We assure you our guests. From our grounds you can walk a taste of paradise. down steps that lead to Store Bay Beach.
21. 21. muSiCand the artsOnce, Tobago was strictly aplace to relax and unwind. Notany more. The entertainmentlandscape has been expanding,and Tobago is attractinginternational acts and patrons Veteran calypsonian Winston Bailey (The Mighty Shadow) performs as a special guest at Dimanche Gras, 2009 (Mark Lyndersay)29
22. 22. bars & clubsFor chilling out after sunset,there are plenty of bars, clubs,hotels and restaurants that offergood drinks, live performances,tasty food and good company.For happy hours, trySundowners Bar with its sunsetviews of Store Bay, or the PavilionRestaurant and Seahorse Innwhich both offer exquisite viewsof Stonehaven Bay.Sports bars like the snazzyfolk perforMancenew Bar Code in ScarboroughThe Itsy Bitsy Folk Theatre presents dinner theatre several (639-CODE, www.barcodetobago.Tuesdays during the year. The dance and music communities com) are an emerging format(particularly the drummers) are quite vibrant on the island:in Tobago. Here you can enjoymany groups meet regularly every week for practice, and guest an array of signature drinks andat various events. These are also the groups who take the stage local or international dishes,at the Tobago Heritage Festival in July not to be missed if you while taking in a seaside view.really want to know Tobago. You can shoot some pool 30 Discover Tobago 2010 www.discovertobago.com
23. 23. afterwards, catch one of the cineMasaficionados descending on the sports games on their big-screenThere is one cinema inisland for the annual jazz festival. TV, or enjoy a live performance.Scarborough, and a multiplex While the clubs are reallycinema at the new Gulf City visual arTs pumping on the weekends, some Lowlands Mall.There is a small but impressive especially in the Crown Point areavisual arts community in present mid-week entertainment,MusicTobago. Artists like Luise Kimme with local bands, drummers, Tobago is staging big music (639-0257, www.luisekimme. dance groups and theme nights.concerts these days, oftencom) and Martin and Rachael In season, Golden Star presents featuring Jamaican dancehall or Superville (owners of The Art variety shows and the Scouting forreggae singers more choices onGallery) have impressive studios Talent competition (followed by DJthe entertainment menu. with original artwork on display music and dancing).Not that music is confined or for sale. The Tobago Museum Friday and Saturday are big to big events. Bars, clubs, hotels(639-3970) at Fort King George nights at The Shade nightclub,and restaurants feature local in Scarborough exhibits local art. while Tobagos other club, Theperformers as regular and rotatingOther well-known artists include Deep, is open every night. And of headliners, with theme nights Jim Armstrong, Kevin Ayoung- course, you cant forget Sundayreserved for hip-hop, jazz, Latin,Julien, Edward Hernandez, David School every Sunday night at reggae, R&B, and of courseKnott, and Earl Manswell. Buccoo Village, where both tourists calypso, soca and steelpan music. and locals gather along the streetsApril is jazz month, withfor much more, visit of the village to enjoy local food, local, regional and international us online at www. steel band music, and popular DJs.jazz (and non-jazz) talent anddiscovertobago.comOpposite page (top) Folk Fiesta Heritage dancer doing the bel (Oswin Browne) Opposite page (bottom) Tambrin drums are warmed by the fire which gives them their unique sound (Oswin Browne)31
24. 24. Buccoo Bay (Mark Meredith) 32 Discover Tobago 2010www.discovertobago.com
25. 25. Beauty and ThE bEaCh Tobago is truly a beach-lovers paradise. Here are some of our favourites. 33
26. 26. Around Crown Point food stalls, changing rooms grange beacH (akaTHe wall): Just past the Mt pigeon poinT: Tobagoscanoe bay: TobagosIrvine Golf Course, this is an ideal most famous beach. Protected calmest and shallowest bathingbeach for swimming by Buccoo Reef, the calm watersbeach, perfect for young families. make it ideal for families. GreatRarely crowded, with excellent sToneHaven bay: for watersports enthusiasts; facilities including bar andmagnificent, rugged beach with some glass-bottom boat tours beachfront cabanas. Entrance feegood facilities start from here. Entrance feeMT irvine: a pair ofLeeward coastsTore bay: extremelybeaches offering excellent popular (and busy) beach for facilities, snorkelling and surfing casTara: stunning, quiet both locals and visitors. Great for(in season). The Mt Irvine Beachand unspoilt beach in a friendly swimming, and snorkelling underHotel side offers refreshments andfishing village, with calm water coral cliffs at southern end. Glass- beach amenities. Snorkelling gear,and fine golden sand. Enjoy the bottom boat tours leave from canoes and hobie cats can besight of fishermen bringing in their here. Excellent craft shopping,hired onsitenets (pulling seine) or breadbaked in old-fashioned dirt ovens.Excellent facilities including arestaurant, stores and craft stalls.Accommodation nearbyenglisHMans bay:quiet and secluded crescent-shaped bay, hidden by trees. Itsdeep, clear waters offer goodswimming and snorkelling. Craftshopping and restaurant onsiteculloDen beacH: goodsnorkelling. Follow the signs toFootprints Eco Resortking peTers bay: quiet,calm bay with dark sand. Goodsnorkelling and spear fishing parlaTuvier: fishingvillage with a tranquil beach and afew snackettesblooDy bay: secluded,breezy beach with clear bluewaters, nothing at all like its name!Man o war bay: mainbeach near Charlotteville, ideal forswimming. Accommodation nearbypiraTes bay: stunningand unspoilt beach with crystal-clear water and a fabulous view.Accessed via half-mile long dirttrack, or by sea 34 Discover Tobago 2010 www.discovertobago.com
27. 27. Windward coastbacoleT bay: used as a location in the 1960s Swiss Family Robinson film, this black-sand beach is popular with surfersbellevue bay: accessed off the Belle Garden Bay Road junction, the waters here are calm by windward-side standardskings bay: picturesque long stretch with calm water and good facilities. Fresh fish on sale; fisherman pull seine in the evenings speysiDe: Tobagos dive capital. Speyside and Blue Waters beaches both offer tranquillity and great snorkelling; bE iN ThE kNOW the offshore reef is within swimming distance. Glass- Lifeguards are typically on duty 9am5pm or 10am6pm bottom boat trips to Angel Reef,where available, but not at all beaches. Red flags indicate Goat Island and Little Tobago unsafe bathing areas start here. Watersports facilities, accommodation and restaurants Permits are required both for camping and for turtle-watching aboundon the nations beaches. Contact a reputable tour guide, your hotel, or the Forestry Division to make arrangements for much more, visit us online at www. Tropical sun can quickly give light skins a bad burn, even discovertobago.comthrough cloud, so use your sunscreenFrom top Store Bay, Crown Point (Mark Meredith), Carnival visitor Tomas Mikuzis from Miami relaxing in Tobago after enjoying his first Carnival (Peter Sheppard) Opposite page Pigeon Point, Tobago (Peter Sheppard)35
28. 28. lETS EaT OuT As in every culture, food and festivity go hand in hand in Tobago.36 Discover Tobago 2010 www.discovertobago.com
29. 29. Many of Tobagos good restaurants take advantage of the islands exquisite landscape. Breathtaking hillside or ocean views, waterwheels and sugar mills can all be part of the dining experience. Most restaurants are in the islands touristy southwestern tip, Scarborough and the northeast. Roadside eateries abound, serving home-style Tobagonian dishes, while trendy sports bars offer their own cocktails of food, drink, and entertainment.No matter where you eat, youre unlikely to go wrong if you choose fresh seafood, Tobagos signature crab-and- dumpling, or freshly squeezed tropical juices. And Tobagos snacks and desserts will indulge any sweet tooth. Where to startwww.crownpointbeachhotel. entertainment at peak times com of year. 639-0686, www. BarCodeSportsBar&Grill CocoaHouseRestaurant seahorseinntobago.com(Scarborough): this stylish& Bar (Golden Lane): 660-new sports bar is located0416, www.footprints-resort.right at the Scarborough port, comgiving you relaxing views of SeaHorseInnRestaurantthe ships and ferries coming & Bar (Black Rock): featuredand going. Enjoy a range ofon the UKs Richard & Judysignature drinks and local and show (GMTV) and the Travelinternational dishes (includingChannel, theres a littlea local staple, fish broth); something for any paletteshoot some pool; watch big from seafood to steaks,sports games on their big- local creole to international sHore THingsscreen TV; or rock to the beat and fusion. Enjoy beautiful 25 Milford Road, Lambeau.of their live music acts. 639- oceanside breezes and views T: 635-1072CODE, www.barcodetobago. of Stonehaven beach, whereDelightful seaside verandahcomgiant leatherbacks come dining for brunches, lunches BlueWatersInnRestaurant ashore MarchAugust. Sipand teas in a setting of(Speyside): 660-2583, www. delicious cocktails at theCaribbean craft and rhythm.bluewatersinn.combar, or dive in to a deliciousMon-Fri 10am6pm, Sat ChartHouseRestaurant 3-course meal under 8am4pm.(Crown Point): 639-8781, the stars. Theres nightlyAbove A selection of herbs, seasonings and vegetables used in local cooking (Giancarlo Lalsingh) Opposite page This local creation of sliced baigan (melongene) topped with sliced onion, fresh tomato, cheese and local herbs is a tasty appetiser (Marc Seyon/Very Caribbean Limited verycaribbean.com)37
30. 30. Taste of Tobagosauce with lime, cucumber,balls, sugar cake, cashew pepper and onioncake, cassava pone, coconut Baked pig: the whole pig is sweetbread, black cake, ice cooked in the earth, most often Curried crab n dumpling: cream and desserts flavoured at the Saraka (Salaka) FeastTobagos signature; delicious with fruit, coconut and even during the Tobago Heritageand extremely filling!Guinness how many pounds Festivalhave you gained? Oildown: breadfruit and meat Blue food: any ground provision boiled down with coconut milk Tom tom: cooked half-ripe or root vegetable (dasheen, plantain pounded in a mortar, eddoes, sweet potatoes, cassava,Pacro water: broth made withmaking a kind of pudding et al)chiton or sea cockroach (said to have aphrodisiac properties) Yabba: thick soup with Bush tea: brewed from herbs dumpling, fish, pigtail, potato, and plants like graterwood, Squash: drink made from limebreadfruit, cassava, dasheen, trumpet, bois canot, lemonand lemon juice green banana and anything grass, lime bud and fever grass else the chef feels moved to Sweets: toolum, guava cheese, include. Other popular soups Conch souse: large sea snails pawpaw balls, shaddockare sancoche, cowheel and fish boiled and served cold in a salty candy, tamarind balls, bennebroth Below Fried samosas stuffed with meat or vegetables have been adopted into the local cuisine of Trinidad and are often served as appetisers or party snacks. ( Marc Seyon/Very Caribbean Limited - verycaribbean.com) 38 Discover Tobago 2010www.discovertobago.com
31. 31. Bon Accord Lagoon (Oswin Browne)Small island,big advENTurETobago has been voted the worlds top eco-tourism destination (WorldTravel Awards, 2003). Fertile and pristine, and blessed with continentalbiodiversity from the time when Tobago (and Trinidad) were joined to theSouth American mainland, Tobago is home to a wealth of ecosystems. Itbrims with activities and adventures to satisfy the most active eco-explorer and theres plenty to interest the more laid-back nature lover too.39
32. 32. World-renowned biodiversity For centuries, Tobagos unique worth has been appreciated and protected, on both land and sea.Tobagos central mountain range (rising to 876m/1,890ft) encompasses the oldest protected rainforest in the western hemisphere, which became a reserve in 1776. In 1973, Buccoo Reef was designated a nationally protected marine area.The Buccoo Reef/Bon Accord Lagoon Complex is the islands first Ramsar Site, recognised as a wetland of international importance. It embraces the ancient inshore coral reef system on the leeward coast and the Bon Accord mangrove swamps and seagrass beds, where the rarely seen green sea turtle may be found.Here are some of our favourite eco adventures. Eco adventures on landTrails: hiking, mountain biking and horseback trails carry you into the heart of the island. The most frequented hiking area is the Main Ridge forest, easily accessibly by the Gilpin and Niplig trails. Biking enthusiasts can opt for easy trails, like those passing through the boardwalk around the Lowlands area, or extreme mountain trails that can be reached only on foot all offer spectacular vistas. Guides are recommended or requiredwaTerfalls: experienced guides can escort you through the rainforest or to the 3-tiered Argyle Falls near Roxborough. Visitors to Rainbow Waterfall can experience local cultivation techniques while literally sharing in the fruits of their labourTobago cocoa esTaTe: a working cocoa plantation and heritage park, where visitors can participate in the fermentation and drying processes. Once considered a dying art, these techniques are being revitalised for the first time since Hurricane Flora decimated Tobagos cocoa crops in 1963 grafTon caleDonia wilDlife birD sancTuary: formerly a cocoa plantation, it is now a nature centre complete with winding trails frequented by the king of the woods, or mot mot. Twice daily feedings guarantee excellent bird sightings offsHore islanDs: superlative places for bird watching. The imposing frigate birds seen circling high above the ocean roost on St Giles. Rare red-billed tropic birds nest DecemberJuly on Little Tobago aDvenTure naTure reserve: a 12-acre estate in Arnos Vale shelters many wild birds. The prolific flora attract butterflies, and there are established organic orchards including mango and citrusTurTle waTcHing: one of Tobagos best-known nature activities is watching the ancient nesting ritual of the sea turtles (MarchAugust).40 Discover Tobago 2010 www.discovertobago.com
33. 33. Although five species of marine turtles are either native to or migratory to Tobago, the most common are the giant leatherback, hawksbill and green. All (and their eggs) are legally protected. Leatherbacks come ashore primarily in Black Rock, while the coral reefs of the northeast welcome hawksbills. Greens can be found near seagrass beds around the islandEco adventures at sea glass-boTToM boaT Tours: one of the most popular marine activities, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. A tour of Buccoo Reef includes the intriguingly named Nylon Pool, and the other-worldly Coral Gardens replete with staghorn and star coral, sea fans and other octocorals. Speyside visitors have a chance to see the worlds largest brain coral Above A newly hatched turtle makes a dash across Grafton Beach Tobago for the safety of the sea (Giancarlo Lalsingh) Below Gilpin Trail, one of many in Tobagos Main Ridge (Oswin Browne)41
34. 34. snorkelling & Diving: available island-wide bE iN ThE kNOW for every level of expertise. Drift Permitsareneededfor some locations and activities (like snorkelling and diving in coastalcamping and turtle-watching), but any reputable guide or areas minimises damage totour operator will arrange these the living reefs. In addition to an assortment of tropical fish, Dontattempta long hike or eco adventure without a in NovemberJune huge mantareputable, certified guide: its easy to get lost or have an rays glide silently alongside theaccident undersea visitor Snakebitesandscorpionstings are rare; the biggestwaTersporTs: enjoy kite natural danger is the Portuguese Man-o-War (vinegar surfing, kayaking, and jet skiing: is good if you get stung), and the sap and fruit of the popular spots are Pigeon Point,manchineel tree (most common on beaches). Seek local Mt Irvine and Charlotteville. Foradvice on whether these are present traditional surfboarding, Mt Irvine and Grange Bay are exceptional; Wearlongtrousersfor lengthy bush treks and never wear and the wind is just right for kiteopen-toed sandals. Comfortable shoes with good grip are surfing at Little Rockly Bay. Thererecommended are chartered boats that sail up the coast serving refreshment in a Takealittleknapsackwith a change of clothes, socks and wonderful Caribbean atmosphere something to eat, stored in a waterproof bag. If you carrya camera thats not waterproof, youll want to keep it here gaMe fisHing: for thosetoo who prefer catching fish to swimming alongside them, the Avoidwearingblack: it attracts mosquitoes and if youre in T&T Game Fishing Association the open, soaks up the heat has six fishing tournaments scheduled for 2010. For two Whenturtlewatching, do not use flash photography, touch years running, blue marlin or otherwise disturb nesting turtles, as this can cause them over 800lbs have been caught severe distress here. Environmentally sound techniques are employed; a PleasekeepTobagoclean:dont discard your rubbish in catch and release programme waterways and in the outdoors ensures that non-champion sized catches are tagged and returnedWhatever your pleasure, you are far more likely to run short to the sea. Tobagos peak fishingof time than of things to do in Tobago; perhaps this is why so season runs NovemberMay many visitors return, year after year.Opposite page A cocrico (Ortalis ruficauda), the national bird of Tobago, Grafton Bird Sancuary, Tobago (Giancarlo Lalsingh) 42 Discover Tobago 2010www.discovertobago.com
35. 35. Where to start FootprintsEcoResort (Golden Lane): 660-0416, www.footprints-resort.com FrankiesTours&Rentals (Mt Irvine): 631-0369, www.frankietours-tobago.com OceanExperience (Crown Point): 631-8430, A world of diversityoceanexperiencetgo@yahoo.comTobago has an incredible degree of biodiversity for its small size. Its PlantationBeachWatersports abundance of flora and fauna include: (Bon Accord): 639-SAIL, 210 recorded bird specieswww.sailtobago.com 133 species of butterflies (including the impressive blue emperor) 25 species of snake (none of them poisonous) ShermansAutoRentals& 17 species of bats Ground Tours 14 species of frog (Lambeau): 639-2292, 12 species of mammalswww.shermansrental.com 5 species of marine turtles (including the endangered giantleatherback) for more, visit us online 6 species of lizardat www.discovertobago. com 43
36. 36. buSiNESS braNChES OuT Tobagos economy is almost equally divided between the public sector and tourism, and the global economic climate, including a new travel tax implemented in the UK, has significantly impacted the tourism industry.The Airports Authority tallied international visitor air arrivals to Tobago at 56,517 for 2008, down 15% from 66,266 in 2007. Tobago has also suffered from inflationary pressures over the last few years, particularly in the area of food prices. While the tourism industry is expected to recover and rebound strongly after the downturn, economic diversification is not only desirable but necessary. To this end, the much- publicised Cove Eco-Industrial Estate and Business Park (CEIDP), brainchild of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), is nearing completion. Promoting light industry, CEIDP will accommodate knowledge-based industry including information technology, light manufacturing, agro- processing and export as well as selected downstream activities related to natural gas. It will also Where to starthouse a receiving/metering facility for natural gas from Trinidad. Cove Eco-Industrial & Business Park: Tobago House of Assembly Investment is encouraged (Scarborough): 631-2683, www.tobagocove.com through various tax holidays, Tobago Hotel & Tourism Association (Carnbee): 639-9543, www.incentives and exemptions, tobagohoteltourism.comincluding those on import duty. Trinidad & Tobago Chamber of Industry & Commerce: Tobago Division Additional incentives apply to the (Scarborough): 639-2669, www.chamber.org.tt export-processing zone. Potential Trinidad & Tobago Entertainment Company: 624-0514, www. investors are invited to apply ttentonline.com for space in the business park Trinidad & Tobago Film Company: 625-FILM (3456), www. and can contact Vernie Shield, trinidadandtobagofilm.com Chairman, Tobago Division of the T&T Chamber of Commerce, for for much more, visit us online at www.information concerning investment discovertobago.comin Tobago. 44 Discover Tobago 2010 www.discovertobago.com
37. 37. Above Goat racing at Buccoo (Oswin Browne) Opposite page Unit Trust building, Scarborough (Oswin Browne)ThEFESTivESpiriTTobago stages a major festival orevent every few months and mini-festivals every month. Its a wondertheres time to rest. Here are some ofthe biggest.45
38. 38. HarvesT & fisHMerMans fesTivals There are Sunday harvest festivals in one of the islands villages every month, where villagers share food and drink and communal celebration. Fishermans festivals take place in the coastal villages during the year, mainly on St Peters Day (June 29). Both events begin with church services in the morning and end with eating, drinking, and partying in the night! carnival Tobagonians enjoy a Carnival season that is more laid back than the sister isles, and focuses more on the theatrical and folk elements of Carnival. Most play traditional mud mas (said to be therapeutic for the skin) which of course necessitates an ocean swim afterwards. The THAs Inter-department Queen and Calypso Show, and the Roxborough Afro-Queen and Windward Calypso Show, are staple seasonal events. The legend of Gang Gang Sarah Its a story that has been passed down for generations. Gang Gang Sarah was a wise witch (or, depending on who you ask, a soucouyant a noctural bloodsucking creature of local folklore that can turn itself into a ball of fire) who flew from Africa to Tobago centuries ago in search of her family. In her old age, after her husbands death, she climbed a giant silk cotton tree (sacred in many indigenous religions) hoping to fly back to her homeland. But having eaten local salt she was unable to fly, and fell to her death. The Witchs Grave marks where she fell. goaT & crab racing At Easter time, only Friday and Monday are official holidays, but Easter Tuesday is not really a day for work in Tobago: everyone heads to Buccoo for the Family Day and Goat and Crab Races. There is special training for the goat jockeys, and a track has been constructed especially for this race; even Virgin Atlantics Richard Branson has taken part. The Festival has been hosted in Buccoo for nearly 80 years, and in fact is so nice its done twice: first from Easter Sunday to the following Tuesday, and then again for the Heritage Festival mid-year.Jazz fesTival Aprils Tobago Jazz Experience replaced the Plymouth Jazz Festival in 2009. While it still has international headliners as part of the show, like its predecessor, the new focus is more on local, regional, and world music artists. A few shows are free, and there is a Caravan feature which takes some performances to different villages around Tobago.Tobago culinary fesTival Produced each May by the Tourism Department of the THA, this free international culinary event invites you to sample dishes from around the world, and especially those native to Tobago, all in the beautiful and relaxed environment of Pigeon Point.46 Discover Tobago 2010 www.discovertobago.com
39. 39. FESTival TradiTiONS Moriah Wedding: signature Tobago Heritage Festival event, featuring groom in stovepipe hat and tailcoat and bride with trousseau on head, processing slowly with the distinctive three-step brush backTambrin: quintessential Tobagonian music, driven by three shallow goatskin tambrin drums (high pitched cutter, roller, and boom bass), fiddle, and steel triangle. Accompanies social eventsReel, Jig and Saraka: indigenous dances from Pembroke, with roots in West African rituals invoking the ancestors, and accompanied by tambrin music. Libations are offered at the beginning of reels. Saraka feast held in Pembroke during Tobago Heritage FestivalSpeech bands: Tobago Carnival tradition, featuring cast of costumed characters speechifying in rhyme. Left A bel dancer performs during the visit of HRH the Prince of Wales to Tobago (Giancarlo Lalsingh) Right Royal Sweet Fingers, the most popular tambrin band in Tobago, warm their tambrins over an open flame (Oswin Browne)47
40. 40. Below The Great Race takes place at greaT feTe & carib greaT race the end of August (Martin Farinha) Opposite page Tobagos newThe Great Race (August) is a major event that draws Trinidadians to Tobago Lowlands Mall in droves. First held in 1969, this 84-mile speed-boat race from Trinidads Gulf of Paria to Crown Point in Tobago ends in the ultimate beach party (which starts well before the boats reach the finish line and ends in the wee hours of the next morning). The race starts early in the morning, and the first boats normally arrive at about 9am on the beach. Originally tied to the Great Race festivities, Tobagos Great Fte Weekend (July/August) is now a separate five-day beach party at Store Bay, Pigeon Point and Mt Irvine.HeriTage fesTivalsees the dasheen plant all of The Heritage Festival (July) isit used to prepare all kinds of the premier cultural event on themouth-watering dishes, including island, with a new theme every bread, cookies, lasagne, and year. Each village produces an even ice-cream. The festival takes event showcasing the islandsplace in the countryside amidst unique mores and traditions in the lush green forest of the Main dance, music, cuisine, story-Ridge, and includes a culinary telling, drama and more. The competition, a cultural show, a festival serves not only as an mini zoo and sometimes a queen entertainment event, but a way show. of teaching and passing on communal values and customs. for a full listing ofannual events andblue fooD fesTivalpublic holidays, visit the This October event brings thecalendar section of this whole island to Bloody Bay onbook. and for much more, the northwest coast. A truly visit us online at www. unique culinary experience, it discovertobago.com48 Discover Tobago 2010 www.discovertobago.com
41. 41. a NEW lEvEl of shopping in Tobago Tobagonian ingenuity ensures that your shopping experience here will be unique. Rustic or elegant, utilitarian or ornamental, there is truly something for everyones taste and shopping list (including yours!).49