Island is particularly proud of its natural side
The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited is touting Tobago as a part of the Caribbean that isn’t short on beaches or nature.
But what the sister island to Trinidad doesn’t have is large numbers of visitors, says the tourism agency’s marketing officer.
“Imagine an island where time slows down, where unspoilt beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, where lush rainforests hum with the sweetest birdsong and where every encounter with our people leaves you feeling like family,” Andra Joefied told a Tuesday Toronto gathering. “Tobago isn’t about mass tourism. It’s about authenticity, simplicity and discovery — the kind of experiences today’s travellers are searching for… “At TTAL, we say Tobago is unspoilt, untouched, undiscovered. But it’s more than a tagline. It’s a promise. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a thrilling eco-adventure or simply reconnecting with nature, Tobago has the power to leave an imprint on every soul that visits.”
Tobago is smaller than Trinidad and has far fewer people.
Ann Layton of Siren Communications – which represents Tobago in this country – recounted how she chose Tobago as her wedding venue, adding the island is suited for romantic getaways and history and culture enthusiasts.
Layton also promoted the island’s natural side, noting its Main Ridge Forest Reserve, established in 1776, was the first protected rainforest on the planet and guided tours of it provide a “very immersive experience.”
The reserve is home to different plants, animals and birds, including some endemic to Tobago. Tourism authorities promote the reserve by stating that, “Long before ecotourism was a trend, Tobago made it law.”
Layton added that tourists can visit beaches “where you are literally the only person.”
Other beaches attract picnicking locals who happily invite visitors to join them, she continued.
The island doesn’t have hotel-owned private beaches.
One water-fronting area called No Man’s Land “looks like something out of Gilligan’s Island” and can only be reached by boat, Layton reported.
Layton also said divers and snorkelers can find “vibrant undersea life,” including unusually large brain coral.
Layton added that Tobago villages have differing cultures and the island hosts festivals, among them one that features crab races, a quirky but entertaining event.
Hotels on the island tend to be smaller and there aren’t any chain properties.
Tobago is linked by hourly Caribbean Airlines service to Trinidad throughout much of the day, with flying time under 30 minutes. Tobago can also be reached by ferry.
Andra Joefied, Tobago Tourism Agency Limited and Ann Layton, Siren Communications at the event in Toronto.
