Discover why Tobago offers the best of both worlds…
Want an untouched island paradise AND plenty of culture and activities? Discover why Tobago offers the best of both worlds…
Ad Feature by British Airways
From diving into azure waters and watching hummingbirds dance to finding fabulous waterfalls in the rainforest and natural pools in the ocean, Tobago is so much more than a traditional beach holiday.
Yes, it has glorious palm-fringed beaches lapped by pristine turquoise waters and some of the best sunsets on earth, but this unspoiled and undiscovered paradise is home to natural wonders, history and adventure too.
And it’s just waiting to host your next holiday, with British Airways flying to Tobago up to two times a week, year-round from London Gatwick.
The secluded beach of Englishman’s Bay (pictured) is garlanded by abundant, lush greenery
Want to know more? Here’s just a few of the things that make it so special…
WILD ADVENTURE…AND WILDLIFE
Ruins of an old sugar mill just outside of Speyside, a fishing and scuba diving town in northeastern Tobago
A popular spot with surfers, Mount Irvine Beach (pictured) is just one of many idyllic corners of this Caribbean island
Nature and natural beauty is the signature of Tobago which may be steeped in tradition but also takes its environmental responsibilities seriously too.
It was the first country in the West to officially protect its rainforests (in 1776), and its north east corner has been declared a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve.
You can still hike through the breath-taking scenery along the Gilpin Trail in the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, the oldest and most popular path through the forest, where rare hummingbirds make it a haven for birdwatchers.
Scuba divers are also spoiled for choice with some incredible reefs including the wreck of the MV Maverick and the Kelleston Drain – one of the world’s largest brain coral – to explore.
Traipse the Tobago Boardwalk though mangroves during the day to encounter the amazing birdlife or paddle board through the mangroves at night to experience bioluminescence.
Pigeon Point Heritage Park is one of Tobago’s best locations to catch an unforgettable sunset
Under an hour’s drive from Scarborough, Parlatuvier Bay (pictured) is a beach for those seeking a little serenity
A bounty of sea life surrounds the island making it a magical destination for nature lovers (Pictured: Fisherman in Castara, Tobago)
Families will enjoy snorkelling the fish-rich waters around Goat Island – perhaps spotting manta rays, sting rays and turtles.
And don’t forget to visit the natural phenomenon that is London Bridge – a stone arch reaching high out of the sea. It’s spectacular from shore and is one of the best scuba and snorkelling sites on the island.
SEA, SUNSETS…AND SNOOZING
Tobago is where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating beautifully clean and sparkling waters that are perfect for swimming.
And water sports too – with surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, wake boarding, parasailing and catamaran sailing available around the island.
And the beaches! Tobago was built for beach-hopping – hire a jeep and take off around the island to discover your favourites for yourself.
Pigeon Point is simply a must – not only is it in CNN’s list of the top 100 beaches in the world, it’s an incredible place for sunsets too.
And while you’re there, pop along to the Nylon Pool – a naturally created pool that’s crystal clear and just a meter deep in the middle of the ocean.
Buccoo Bay is another favourite (its reef is incredible for snorkelling) along with Bloody Bay, Batteaux Bay and Grange Beach but if you’re looking for somewhere a bit off the beaten track, try the secluded beaches of Englishman’s Bay.
For somewhere to stay, you’ll be spoiled for choice with a variety of accommodation from luxury villas to family-friendly resorts – especially when booking with British Airways Holidays.
My Caribbean…
In Tobago we have a popular song by Lord Nelson known to all as ‘All Ah We Is One Family’ and it reminds me of the ability of our people to put differences aside and unite for a good cause.
The richness and diversity of our culture is one of a kind and Tobago is the perfect place to be if you’d like to wind down and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
You’ll find welcoming people always willing to lend a helping hand, clear waters under the glistening sun and mouth-watering creole food.
Make sure you visit the Nylon Pool and rainforest, do some night kayaking and food touring – I’d recommend my own restaurant for both local and international dishes, Miss Trims at Store Bay, Jemma’s Seafood at Speyside and Anchor’s Bar and Grill at Mt Irvine.
Try our Sea Moss and Dasheen Punch, Mauby and seasonal Christmas drinks such as Ginger Beer, Sorrel and Ponche de Crème.
And get off the beaten track with a visit to Cotton Bay, Lover’s Bay and Bon Accord Lagoon where you can now go bamboo rafting.
Danielle Stewart, owner of Frontline Flavours restaurant in Black Rock
In the south west of the island and on the waterfront is Coco Reef Resort and Spa which, with its Colonial-style main building and ten acres of palm-filled gardens resembles a vintage plantation.
Nestled right between two of the island’s best-known beaches, Store Bay and Pigeon Point, the resort comprises elegant rooms and suites – each with its own large private patio or balcony. Many are also served by breathtaking sea views.
In the city of Scarborough is the modern Comfort Inn and Suites which has a rooftop lounge and pool, fitness centre and spa to enjoy.
Conveniently located to enjoy all of Tobago’s wonders, this hotel is the prefect place from which to attend fabulous events at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex, and browse the craft shops and no-frills eateries of The Milford Road Esplanade.
FOR LOVERS OF CULTURE, HISTORY…AND BLUE FOOD
History buffs will love Tobago’s fascinating past and should head straight to Scarborough to visit the Historical Museum and then Fort King George with its well-preserved officers’ barracks, gunpowder magazine and prison cells.
In fact, as the French, Dutch, Spanish and British all fought over the island for centuries, there are seven forts to visit including Betsey’s Hope and Cambelton Battery.
For some local culture, view the art at the Kimme Museum and for beautiful crafts, head to Store Bay with your wallet.
But the island’s culture isn’t just history. It’s reflected in the many festivals celebrated throughout the year by its people.
Each February sees the main Trinidad and Tobago Carnival – two fun-filled days of street parties, processions and steel pan bands.
Tobago itself holds a similar celebration without its big sister island in October too.
In between is the Jazz Experience in April, the Heritage Festival in July to August and the Blue Food Festival in early October. This unique event challenges chefs to use dasheen, a root vegetable that’s blue when cooked, in every dish.
*For more information and to book your Tobago holiday visit ba.com/tobago
British Airways – your gateway to the Caribbean
British Airways flies to 14 different Caribbean islands – more than any other UK airline.
Their in-house tour operator, British Airways Holidays offers the full package from flights and hotels to car hire and airport transfers.
All British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected, include 23kg checked baggage allowance per person as standard and offer a 24-hour holiday helpline to ensure peace of mind throughout your holiday.
And it’s so easy to book an amazing trip with British Airways Holidays as you can secure your holiday with a low deposit from just £75pp, with flexible payment options before you fly*.
*T&Cs apply. Deposit balance due 7 weeks in advance for long haul. See ba.com/deposits for more information.
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