I'm 25, single, traveling solo and trying to find somewhere to go for the first week of September. I've read some good things about Tobago. I like to experience local culture, relax, hike if the rainforest is nice and has good wildlife, and love snorkeling. I also like to meet other budget/hostel travelers. Are there hostels? Is it an expensive island? This is important as I like to keep my expenses low. I would also consider getting scuba-certified, if possible. What about the weather? Will it rain that time of year? Please help me make a decision! Thanks.
Should I go?
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I was in Tobago this past March. I don't know if there are any hostels, but there are quite a few inexpensive hotels and apartments near the airport in the Crown Point area. I found a nice efficiency apartment near the beach for US$70 per night, including taxes, with no (dreaded) single supplement. There are places further from the beach that go for a bit less. The rates should be lower during the off-season. There are several grocery stores in the area, so it's not necessary to eat out all the time. Someone on a snorkelling trip I took mentioned that there are places in Charlotteville (in the northern part of the island) that cost as little as US$25 per night. The Charlotteville area is nice, but it is very remote. It is a 2-hour drive from the airport. If you're looking to get away from it all, this is the place.
Overall, I found prices on Tobago to be quite reasonable compared to other islands. The most expensive part was the airfare. In fact, I spent almost as much for the airfare as I did for lodging, food, and rental car!
Snorkelling in Buccoo Bay was OK, but not very impressive. After what I had read, I expected it to be better. For US$15, a boat takes you out to the reef for about an hour or so. There apparently is some good snorkelling around Charlotteville and Speyside.
Tobago has some nice rain forest trails for hiking. The main trail is well-marked and not too difficult, although it is quite muddy in places. (The rain forest trails in Grenada are steeper and more slippery.) The variety of birds and plants is impressive. While driving up there the first time, the parrots were squawking so loudly, and since I hadn't recognized it at first, I thought there was a problem with my car!
As for the weather, it was perfect in March. I've never had a problem with weather in the Caribbean in March. I suspect there will be more frequent showers in September, but nothing to spoil your trip. At least Tobago is far south of the hurricane belt.
I really enjoyed my stay in Tobago. I'm already planning on going back this winter.
E-mail me if you need more specific information.