Trinidad & Tobago: Island Gems of Twin Proportions  by Marcia Niles
 

Trinidad & Tobago -- The twin island nation of Trinidad and Tobago is a melting pot of uniquely diverse cultures. No where else in the Caribbean would you find such a mix of ethnic groups including East Indian, African, Amerindian, Chinese, Spanish, French and other races.

Located just off the northeast coast of Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago are the southernmost islands in the Caribbean Sea, internationally known for its Carnival, invention of Steelpan, and robust cuisine. It is also a major exporter of oil and natural gas in the region, making it one of the most economically prosperous islands in the Caribbean.

Trinidad, with its vibrant cosmopolitan style is a stark contrast to the slower pace and serenity of Tobago.
 
Both islands are ecological gems with their own distinct character. Discover beautiful beaches, rainforests and jungles, teeming with wildlife and numerous species of birds. During your visit to the Caroni Bird Sanctuary, be on the lookout for the beautiful Scarlet Ibis, the national bird of Trinidad. The sky turns red as flocks of these birds return to roost at sunset. On Tobago, giant leatherback turtles arrive from March through July to lay their eggs. Relax on secluded beaches fringed with palms or participate in a myriad of watersports including snorkeling, and diving the stunning coral reefs. Here, you will also find the oldest protected rain forest in the Western Hemisphere (The Main Forest Reserve.)

Trinidad and Tobago were inhabited by the Amerindians from South America when Christopher Columbus made landfall in 1498. He claimed Trinidad for Spain, but it took a century before the Spanish would actually settle the island. Tobago remained in a tug of war between the Spanish, Dutch, French and British for centuries, changing hands 22 times; more often than any other island in the Caribbean. Britain eventually gained possession in 1814 and united the two islands as a single colony. After the emancipation of slavery, indentured servants were brought in from East India and Asia to fill a labor shortage. 

Trinidad & Tobago gained independence from Britain in 1962 and became a Republic in 1978.
 

Resources : Copyright 2007. Island Living Digest Magazine. Marcia Niles is the Editor/Publisher of Island Living Digest Magazine, an online publication that celebrates the beauty and charm of the Caribbean.

Keywords : Trinidad & Tobago, Caribbean