A True Trini Lime : My Top 5 places to visit in Trinidad and Tobago

As we are all inside a couple days now #staysafe #stayhome , lets switch it up a bit , take a step outdoors into a new kind of reality and take a virtual road trip with me to my "Top 5 places to visit in Trinidad and Tobago in True Trini Style !

Photo : Argyle Falls , Tobago

"Of all the paths you take in life make sure a few of them are dirt"- John Muir

Most "Trini Lime's" must haves are great food , great company and a known or unknown destination . What else do you need ? The food is either prepared before hand, at the destination or bought on the way from local venders #supportlocal.

“Most "Trini Lime's" must haves are great food , great company and a known or unknown destination . What else do you need ?

Both Trinidad and Tobago have amazing destinations that would blow your mind away . Although we are one identity we have different cultures which a both unique in there own way. As a result there is never a dull moment no matter where you go.

Phote: Map of Trinidad and Tobago

Lets start the journey off at our sister isle Tobago!

To get to Tobago the mode of transportation available are either an Inter Island Ferry or an airplane. The faster route is by airplane . It usually takes 15-20 min to get there.

In no particular order , our first stop is STORE BAY , TOBAGO !

Photo : Map of Tobago showing the two destinations being discussed in this article

1. Store Bay , Tobago

Photo: Store Bay , Tobago

Store Bay in Tobago is located 5 min maximum from the airport in Tobago subject to how fast you can walk . It is a beautiful beach . The water is usually warm early in the morning. It is easily comparable to a lake, calm and transparent. Great for swimming laps or water sports. The water sports available include jet skying , boat tours and snorkeling at near by reefs. These sports caters for all level of skills. The wildlife is spectacular ! If your are an early riser you can carry a few pieces of bread and go feed the fishes and the near by birds.

There are local stalls located near by that sell handcrafted products as well as local foods and sweets . These unique dishes are delicious. The flavors and styles of cooking are inspirational if you are a foodie like me. A famous dish which Tobago is known for is its curried crab and dumplin which is a must try !

During my most recent trip to Tobago I was able to get close and personal with some Pelicans. Tobago is like a second home to me ,and each visit has been an unforgettable experience . On another visit I saw one of the locals bring his dogs to accompany him while he swam laps in the Bay . It was amazing , as the dog was also swimming and was able to keep up with him . So you are guaranteed to have a blast whether you go alone or with your best people, trust me!

Photo: Pelican seen at Store Bay, Tobago

The sunrise and sunset are breath taking, definitely memorable. Don t get me started . I've been to Tobago many times and the sunset and sunrise never ceases to amaze me. I definitely look forward to it . When that light hits the water and creates that natural mirror effect , no Instagram filter can compare .

Store Bay however is not always as glassy as described , it is a seasonal thing , usually from July to October. So when you decide to go please exercise caution. No matter the water conditions there is never a dull moment !

Next Stop , Argyle Falls !

2. Argyle Falls, Tobago

Photo: Argyle Falls , Tobago

Let me start off by saying , this waterfall is verrrrryyyyyy cold but totally worth it . I would describe this waterfall , maybe all waterfalls as natures ice bucket challenge.

For this journey , you would need a car . This beautiful waterfall is located not to far from the capital of Tobago , Scarborough . Tobago is a small island , so you usually can drive around the whole island within less than a day .

On arrival to the water fall you are greeted with an entrance engulfed in a canopy of trees. It is totally breath taking .After you park your car , it is a 10 min walk to the waterfall. There you would find this beauty nestled in the background, you can hear the roar of the water in the distance. It is definitely unreal . You are able to embrace the calm sounds of nature while soaking in clear waters cascading down the side of the mountain as you breathe in the clean crisp air. It is a great way to get away from the fast pace life of the city .

My experience at this waterfall was memorable . I was taken a back by the scenery . It seemed so untouched by mankind . As I went during an off peak time (not during school vacation time) there were less crowds and I was able to get a greater appreciation of the space. I swam , dived snorkeled for a while. It was totally refreshing . Usually when I go I beach hop , so after spending soo much time in the salt water from the sea , the cool water on a hot day is refreshing !

Time to head back to Trinidad for some more adventures!

First stop Grand Riviere River

Photo: Map of Trinidad highlighting the 3 destinations being discussed in this article

3. Grand Riviere River , Trinidad

Photo : Grand Riviere River , Trinidad

Grand Riviere River is located on the North East of Trinidad. This is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of life and take a break to connect with what matters most. The drive is approx 4 hours depending on the stops you make but it is total worth it . It is scenic coastal drive into rural Trinidad. You will see an example of the most authentic lifestyle as you go deeper into the country side.

Upon arrival to the River you would be greeted by the sounds of nature and depending on the season you would get to experience the seed dispersion of the silk cotton tree . It is similar to that of flurries in the winter, soft and fluffy . Fun Fact! these seedlings were used as stuffing for pillow back in the day.The water is calm and crystal clear , you can see the wildlife such as fishes and crayfish with your bare eyes.You just have to know where to look.

When I go , we usually choose to to cook on the river bank itself . This is a true culinary experience , getting in touch with thee roots of your forefathers. Food cooked by a fireside a truly a unique experience. The smoky flavor added is the taste of nature you would never get in the kitchen. Purchasing local produce on the way from locals in the area really makes a huge difference to your palate!

Lets head down to south of the island to the ICACOS Wetlands!!!

4. Icacos Wetlands , Trinidad

Photo : Icacos Westlands , Trinidad

When I first visited this place it blew me away , I didn't think I was in the same country . It was unbelievable.

This is another 4 hour plus trip that would leave you breathless. In my opinion, the further you drive away from the city , the easier it gets to find these hidden gems. Sometimes all you got to do is jump in your car and just drive!

Driving through the country side , breathing in that fresh clean oxygen into your lungs is refreshing. Its like a factory rest into life. You get to appreciate the simpler things.

Photo: Icacos Wetland , Trinidad

A couple hours later, you would arrive at this unique destination where the road passes through the wetlands. You would see coconut trees lining both sides of the road , ducks paddling in the waters , local fishermen catching their grub for the evening . It was epic . As the sun set you would see the reflection of the sky mirrored onto the glass like surface of the water . Everything was in such harmony , like nothing I have seen before !

Final stop, we are headed to the north east coast to Las Cuevas!

5. Las Cuevas Bay , Trinidad

Photo: Las Cuevas Beach ,Trinidad

Saving the best for last!

This is my absolute favorite place to go to . It is located an hour away from from where I live in Trinidad and Tobago and work depending on where my clients are located. A scenic drive through the lush green mountains, after a long day at work, to take a step back just to reboot is just what you need to seek perspective on what ever problems you are trying to solve.

To get to this beach you have to pass through Trinidad's infamous beach Maracas Bay . You can not pass through Maracas without getting some Shark and Bake for you and your gang .

A 20 min drive from maracas you would reach Las Cuevas Bay.

Pre quarantine me was there almost every weekend , no doubt about that and each time was like I was there for the first time . It is quite an experience .I have fished and caught small sharks, seen baby whales , celebrated birthdays with family and friends, did some night swimming , did some wayyy to early in the morning swimming . Whatever is your go to outdoor beach activity , I am sure you can it at this beach! It is really a place to sit back and relax and enjoy the thrills and beauty of mother nature.

Now I have complied my list , let me now what is yours no matter where in the world you are today!

Be sure to be safe and be mind full of the weather as you depart on your journeys!

Now that is the POSITIVITEA!