Postcards from the Past: Trinidad & Tobago

Caribbean Life without the Caribbean Vibe

When and Where:           8/2011 – Scarborough (Tobago)

41st Country Visited; 16th North American Country Visited

Interesting Facts:

·        Trinidad & Tobago is the birthplace of the steel pan drum, Calypso music, and the Limbo. 

·        Trinidad & Tobago is the most developed Caribbean nation.  It has the third highest GDP in all of the Americas. 

·        Indian people (people from India) make up the largest ethnic group.  Hinduism is the second largest religion in the country.

 Aaron and I made a brief visit to Tobago in 2011.  Tobago is much different than other Caribbean islands.  The largest sector of the economy of Trinidad & Tobago is the petroleum industry, accounting for roughly 50% of the overall economy and 80% of all exports.   The tourism sector is very small, especially compared to its Caribbean neighbors.  Therefore, Tobago isn’t a tourist friendly getaway.  However, Tobago boasts many golf courses and unspoiled beaches.  The infrastructure of Tobago is pristine with an excellent road system. 

 From Scarborough, the capital of Tobago, Aaron and I made our way to a public beach.  It was a beautiful sunny day and we made the most of it.  We buried our toes in the sand, snacked on bananas and fruit juices and listened to steel drum music off in the distance.  The best part of Trinidad & Tobago are the people, who are collectively referred to as Trinis.  The laidback spirit of the Trinis make everyone feel welcome and right at home.   That being said, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Trinidad & Tobago for vacation unless you want an extremely low-key vacation. 

Beach just north of Scarborough, Tobago

Aaron and I in Tobago

Golf course near the beach in Tobago






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