Author picks

Our author has travelled the length and breadth of T&T, shimmying through the streets at Carnival, body-surfing at the beaches and sampling the best cuisine. Here are her highlights.

Carnival time Arrive in time to check out the panyards and party at the fetes, then cover yourself in mud and chip along to a rhythm section for Jouvert and bring out the bling to play mas in the main parades – simply the most fun you will ever have.

Tropical birdlife Whether you view hummingbirds up close at Yerettê, see the scarlet ibis at Caroni Swamp or spend an afternoon spotting the colourful species at Asa Wright, T&T’s rich birdlife is not just for the hardened twitcher.

Street food From a hot cup of corn soup to a filled-to-bursting roti, early morning chickpea doubles to paper bags of pholouri dipped into spicy tamarind sauce, T&T’s street food is ridiculously moreish.

Go cocoa loco Explore T&T’s chocolate revolution with a bean-to-bar tour in Port of Spain, at Brasso Seco, Grande Riviere, San Antonio or Tobago Windward Chocolate Company; sample creative cocoa-infused cuisine at Lopinot; and take a taste of T&T home via a visit to Cocobel, Cocoa Pod or Tobago Chocolate Delights.

Swim in a waterfall From floating in cool water under a rainforest canopy to getting a watery massage, waterfalls are a highlight of T&T; Rio Seco. Argyle, Sombasson and Paria are four of the best.

The deep south There’s much more to the south than the Pitch Lake, from beachside palm groves and gorgeous wetlands at Columbus Bay and Icacos Point to history and culture at Moruga – plus a friendly, hospitable and uniquely southside vibe.

Our author recommendations don’t end here. We’ve flagged up our favourite places – a perfectly sited hotel, an atmospheric café, a special restaurant – throughout the Guide, highlighted with the symbol.

Alamy Stock Photo

SCARLET IBIS

PARIA WATERFALL