Trinidad is this independent republic's larger island and houses the capital - Port of Spain. It is an island of great degree of racial diversity - 40% of the population are of South African descent, 40% of Indian descent and other inhabitants include Europeans and Chinese. This makes for an interesting mix of cultures, cuisines and languages - with English, Spanish, French and Hindi all spoken. Unlike parts of the Caribbean, the pace in the capital is fast and the action is lively - particularly in the bars and downtown markets. Witnessing the vibrant atmosphere, and listening to the steel drums, visitors will have no problem appreciating why Trinidad is known as the carnival capital of the Caribbean. The annual carnival takes place in February and March and there is goat, crab and horse racing events over Easter.

One of Trinidad's most superb sights is Pitch Lake, 100 acres of tar, soft enough to engulf humans! Further key attractions on Trinidad include Asa Wright Nature Reserve, Maracas Bay and Waterfalls, Paria-Brasso Seco Ecotrails and St Benedict. Game-fishing trips are available to visitors, as is scuba diving, bird watching and golf. The swamps in the south of the island are home to cayeman alligators, and scarlet ibis birds.

Tobago rates as the twin island nation's more attractive partner, and is a place for eco-tourists as well as those seeking luxury and relaxation to enjoy.  It is situated to the North East of Trinidad and houses its own international airport, on the S.Western tip. Sample the calm pace of life, the golf courses and smart accommodation or dig deeper to explore the tropical rainforests encompassing a vast array of bird life (over 400 species), butterflies (over 600 species) and plants (over 2,000 types). Visitors can also spot turtles, rays and the world's largest brain coral (at Buccoo Reef) by snorkelling or scuba diving in the waters surrounding the islands. Secluded bays provide visitors to Tobago with even more peace and privacy on the Western end of the island.

Other attractions to explore on Tobago include Fort King George, Bucco Reef and Nylon Pool, Franklyn Waterfall and the Main Ridge Nature Reserve. The towns of Scarborough and Plymouth are small, friendly places providing visitors with a charming atmosphere.

Many people choose to visit both Trinidad and Tobago to sample the diverse nature of this intriguing twin island nation.

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