ST. MARTIN: ROMANTIC ACTIVITIES

Nature tours definitely rank as a top attraction on Trinidad. The Asa Wright Nature Centre 868-667-4655, is the island's top spot for naturalists and birders, who can enjoyed guided walks on nature trails or go off on their own in search of multi-color hummingbirds and many of the island's other tropical species. Near Port of Spain, the Caroni Swamp 868-638-6360, is a sanctuary that's home to the scarlet ibis, and in the sunset hours the sky turns truly scarlet as these birds come in to roost in the mangroves. Boat tours are available for a closer look at these beautiful birds; for information on boat tours call 868-637-9664 or fax 625-6980.

Although Trinidad is not known for its beaches, Maracas Bay, located on the north shore, is a popular spot with both tourists and residents. About an hour from Port of Spain, the drive to this area is a treat in itself, winding through the Northern Range with views of forests where species such as howler and capuchin monkeys, ocelot, Amazon parrots, and wild pigs can be found. Make a stop at the Hot Bamboo Hut for a taste of spicy mango slices in pepper and a beautiful view of the coastline. Nearby, Maracas Bay offers a full day of fun, with complete changing facilities, chair rentals, watersports, and local food such as "shark and bake," a fast food snack made with fresh shark encased in a pancake sandwich.

In Port of Spain, the Queen's Park Savannah is a top stop. This central park, encircled by what's termed the world's longest roundabout, is home to cricket fields, botanical gardens, and tall trucks selling green coconuts. Enjoy a walk around the Savannah, which is lined with grand historic homes, and stop for a drink of coconut water.

Cultural events are scheduled every month at The Normandie, with entertainment ranging from poetry readings to small plays to opera performances to small plays held beneath the trees.

Nature attractions are also a big draw on Tobago. Of special interest are the leatherback turtles who come to nest on the leeward side of the island between March and August. Come out after sunset between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. for the best chance of viewing these large marine turtles when they come ashore to lay between 80 and 125 eggs in the sand. The tiny offspring make their run for the sea about two months later.

Cruising Tobago's calm waters is a fun a way to look at the island's beautiful coast. The Loafer (868-639-7312), a 50-foot catamaran, departs from Buccoo Reef, the most popular beach on the island for all day cruises as well as sunset sails and full moon dinners. The all-day trip includes a swim at the Nylon Pool, a calm, shallow area in the sea formed by a sandbar close to the surface where guests of all swimming levels enjoy a swim.

Divers often head straight to Speyside, located on the northern tip of the island. Here they might have the opportunity to swim with giant manta rays; dolphins, turtles, whale sharks and porpoises are sometimes spotted. This area is especially rich, with a profusion of coral growth and marine life, because of Venezuela's Orinoco River. The river's nutrients flow through the Guyana current that brushes Tobago and provides the island with some of the Caribbean's best diving.

Day trips to other islands are a popular activity for travelers who stay on Tobago for a week or longer. Trips to the Grenadines and Venezuela's Angel Falls are two choices.