Land of curried crab and dumpling, coconut trees, turquoise beaches, and setting to one of the most popular novels written, Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe, Tobago our sister island never disappoints. Tobago unlike Trinidad has a completely different vibe. From the moment you touch down, you get an easy breezy feel the way an island should be. Throw away the suit and uptight attitude because paradise has arrived wearing short shorts and a rum punch in hand.
I have travelled to our sister isle a couple of times and the experience has never fall short of excellence. The long smoothly paved roads fit for travelling unleashes a spirit to explore. It escorts you to the rich culture and places of highlight the island holds. Not to mention, I have rarely seen garbage laying around. The pristine beauty and cleanliness of the island is something worth speaking about.
In Trinidad, I look around and grow outraged by the lack of concern people possess. Wherever you are, you name it there is garbage everywhere. So believe me, seeing the cleanliness of Tobago sparks some sort of pride, and wish fullness that Trinidad would take a page out of its sister’s book when it comes to sanitation. The interactions I’ve had with Tobagonians are very open and friendly for the most part. The only issue I had was with that one cashier at KFC in Gulf City Mall, Tobago who had a very rude crabby attitude. It came across as if I had to beg her to take out the chicken and fries.
Regardless, Tobago is beautiful without a doubt. So much to see, do, taste and experience. Highlights of my trip include, taking a million selfies/pictures at Pigeon Point Beach and on the way back stopping at Bagos Bar enjoying ole talk with family over drinks. Englishman’s Bay has a chill atmosphere and Mt.Irvine Bay is a nice beach but more so for surfers.
Crown Point Beach is the go to place for a quick bath; you will most likely see men selling stuff to make a little hustle. There is where I get my goodies, cannot leave without my bene ball, fudge and sugar cake. Also at Crown Point beach is where they have tours to take you to the infamous Nylon Pool. I boarded Frankie’s Party Boat with non-stop Soca and reggae tunes blasting. The vibe was crazy cool. When they say that the sand at the Nylon Pool makes you 20 times younger, it aint no joke because it really had my skin glowing.
Arnos Vale hideaway beach in my opinion is one of the better beaches of Tobago. I took a trail to get there, whilst one can appreciate the nature and serenity, the dismalness was somewhat creepy. However, the light at the end of the tunnel is worth it. The views and water was just perfection. Met a woman at the beach who spoke of the Arnos Vale Hotel and what it used to be. A monument of awe, now withering away, with hopes that someone could bring it back to life.
When it comes to food, Skewers is my joint. The cuisine style is Mediterranean and the flavours comes through on everything I have tasted thus far. The gyro is bomb! Been there so many times that I made a friend, Hateem. Charming fella, who keeps good convo whilst he prepares the Gyro. Revs Steakhouse and bar I also visited which offers food that is more American style, such as, steak, burgers, sandwiches, wings etc. I did not really order from the menu, I more so went for the lime, the pump on a Friday is very entertaining with themed nights the atmosphere is laid back which I like.
So much beautiful things to see and do, I can go on and on in telling you countless experiences I’ve had. Whether it is leaving by plane or on the boat, Tobago always leaves an imprint, a special place in my heart. You can definitely count on me returning. I challenge you to take a journey to Tobago and leave your footprints in the sand. For the local’s don’t waste any time plan a staycation and try new things and always remember to love your journey.