Fodor's Expert Review Asa Wright Nature Centre

Nearly 200 acres are covered with plants, trees, and multihued flowers, and the surrounding acreage is atwitter with more than 200 species of birds, including the gorgeous blue-crowned motmot and the rare (and protected) nocturnal oilbird. If you stay at the center's inn for two nights or more, take one of the guided hikes (included in your room price if you are staying here) to the oilbirds' breeding grounds in Dunston Cave (reservations for hikes are essential). Those who don't want to hike can relax on the inn's veranda and watch birds swoop about the porch feeders. You are also more than likely to see a variety of other animal species, including agoutis (similar to large guinea pigs) and alarmingly large golden tegu lizards. This stunning plantation house looks out onto the lush, untouched Arima Valley. Even if you're not staying over, book ahead for lunch, offered Monday through Saturday, or for the noontime Sunday buffet. The center is an hour outside Blanchisseuse.