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The blue waters and sandy beaches of the island are often the only places that visitors to the island see. However Tobago has a variety of natural landscapes and scenery which may tempt you away from the beaches and are well worth a visit.
The island has an expanse of dense rainforest combined with rugged hills which provide the ideal spot to take in the spectacular views of the island. Within the rainforest you will find waterfalls, rivers and nature trails as well as an array of wildlife. If the local birdlife interests you, then you should definitely pay a visit to Little Tobago which is an ideal day trip. This island is a bird sanctuary but is also a great place for snorkelling in the clear waters or just for relaxing on a deserted beach.
The colonial past of the island is also reflected in some interesting buildings and architecture around the island. The Fort King George in the capital Scarborough is the only fortification on the island remaining from colonial times and is worth a visit for its historical significance and the coastal views. The fort was the site of a bloody battle in 1790 when French soldiers (France occupied the island between 1781 and 1703) mutinied and killed their officers. In the fracas Scarborough was burnt to the ground.
Another landmark with military links is Flagstaff Hill near Charlottesville. This was a military observation post during the Second World War and now affords fantastic views of the island, particularly at sunset.
If you want to sample more beaches, then Pigeon Point is a true Caribbean idyll. The powder white sand fringed with palms makes it an ideal place to lay back and relax. If you arrive by car the entrance fee to the beach will give you access to the thatched shelters should you require shade from the sun as well as changing rooms. Other great beaches include Man of War Bay which offers good swimming and Pirates Bay which is great for snorkelling.
Perhaps the most famous musical sound you will hear in Tobago is the steel drum or 'pan'. These local instruments have become known all over the world and are reported to the only new musical instrument to be invented in the twentieth century. The steel drum, although not native to Tobago (it was developed right next door in Trinidad) is the instrument of choice on the island. You will certainly hear the relaxing sound of the 'pans' during your stay on the island as most of the hotels feature a steel band as part of their entertainment in the evenings. There are several medium sized 'pansides' which are quite audible at certain times of the year, especially in the three months preceding the Carnival.
Accompanying the steel bands, Tobagans will often get up and dance. The dances of Tobago reflect tradition, but the moves change over the years reflecting the latest trends and the ideas of a younger generation. Look out in particular for the belé dance, limbo, and the 'wine and jam'. These dances and others reflect the heritage and lifestyle of the people of Tobago over the past three hundred years but still today inspire everyone to join in with the local rhythm.
The cuisine of Tobago is a unique blend of African, Indian, Chinese, European and Latin American influences and to most people is one of the highlights of visiting the island.
Curry and Roti are national favourites. Roti originated in East India, but, like all West Indian curry dishes, has now been thoroughly localised. It is basically thin flat unleavened bread (flour pancake), very much like a tortilla. Known as a roti wrap, it is traditionally wrapped around a meat and potato curry. The most popular fillings are curried chicken, goat, shrimp or conch with potato chunks and channa (chickpeas). Vegetable roti is popular with vegetarians.
Be sure to try pelau (buttery pigeon peas and tasty rice) and the exotic ice creams (including soursop, barbadine, coconut, mango and guava). Mangoes and pommeracs are the tastiest local fruits. Breadfruit, plantains and yams are local staples. Locals spice up all dishes with hot pepper sauce, which is served at all tables next to the salt and pepper.
Another local specialty which is unique to Tobago is crab and dumpling. The island has blue land crabs which are often found in holes beside the roads. This dish is created by cooking the crabs in their shells and serving with a curry sauce and flour dumplings.
For liquid refreshment, try Carib or Stag beer, though the most popular drink on the island is rum. This can be drunk neat or mixed in an exotic cocktail or rum punch. However beware - a rum punch can often contain three measures of rum!
