Trinidad & Tobago: Islands on the Move
by Paris Permenter & John Bigley

"Wait and watch" might have been the motto of the Trinidad and Tobago tourism industry just a few years ago, but these southern islands are quickly making their move in the tourism scene.Honeymooners find plenty to love on cozy Tobago, always a favorite with romantics, while nature lovers find challenge in the form of birdwatching, hiking, and more on larger Trinidad.

The honeymoon market also continues to grow, primarily for more the more leisure-oriented Tobago. Growth has been spurred by a 1996 change in marriage laws for both islands, which now permit couples to marry three days after their arrival. Many resorts offer on-staff consultants to help with the paperwork details. "The wedding market is picking up," says Noel. Last year over 150 foreign weddings took place in the country. The islands have been placing advertisements in bridal magazines and attracting those looking to get married on their honeymoon. Marriage requirements are the same on Trinidad and Tobago which Noel defines as "two pieces of paradise--one country."

Ecotourism remains a top draw on both islands, attracting visitors who come for birdwatching, hiking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and more. With its emphasis on activity, the islands have even chosen to position their ecotourism differently than other destinations. "We don't say 'ecotourism.' We use 'nature adventure' to convey what we are doing," says Noel. For many travelers, the appeal is also convenience and the ability to combine outdoor fun with big-city action. "Trinidad is an upbeat cultural destination on the go with terrific ecological possibilities. The fact that you can go from a town and get such greenery in a short drive attracts a lot of people."

Attractions

Ecotourism attractions are found on both islands. Trinidad is home to the Asa Wright Nature Centre and Lodge, a 200-acre wildlife sanctuary with diverse species that attract bird watchers from around the globe. The island's Caroni Bird Sanctuary, with 130 bird species, is best known for the scarlet ibis, seen on late afternoon cruises through the swamp. The Nariva Swamp is home to red howler monkeys as well as varied bird life such as parrots and macaws. Tobago's ecotourism attractions include the Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool, the Botanical Gardens in Scarborough, and many bird sanctuaries.

Tobago is especially noted for its dive opportunities. "The diving ranks as some of the best," points out Noel. Manta rays are found off the coast at Speyside, although good dive sites are found around the island.

Noel is confident that these natural resources will attract vacationers for years to come thanks to careful preservation. Ecological consciousness has a long history on these islands, dating back to 1964 with the declaration of Tobago's rain forest as a protected reserve. Today the Environmental Management Agency works to strengthen laws and increase educational programs. Another resource Noel notes are the "licensed dive operators who self-regulate because they are interested in retaining what we have."

Aside from its natural resources, Noel says that, "Tobago has something for everyone. There are places you can go into local kitchens and learn about the local cuisine." Other opportunities include golf, sportsfishing, history tours, yachting, tennis, and watersports.

Dining:

The diverse population of Trinidad makes for a wealth of dining opportunities on that island. Indian, Creole, Chinese, Syrian-Lebanese and Italian cuisines are well represented, especially in Port of Spain. " I don't know if there is any destination in such a small place where you could find such diversity," says Noel. West Indian cuisine reigns on Tobago with many restaurants for local clientele as well as travelers.

For more information on Trinidad and Tobago, check out the official web site: http://www.visitTNT.com.