T hese two islands, hugging the coast of Venezuela, are excellent getaways for travelers who shun the well-trodden tourist track, who like their vacations more spontaneous than planned.
Visitors are more than welcome to buy an authentic costume and join right in.
For that reason, Port of Spain, the energetic modern capital, caters more to business than to tourism - though connoisseurs of local custom will want to sample its streetwise charms. Beyond the urban bustle, however, Trinidad's unspoiled rugged beaches and florid jungles enthrall visitors in search of natural pleasures, especially birders and botanists. Wide tracts of virgin rainforest and mangrove swamp are filled with hundreds of exotic bird species, and clear gentle rivers are hospitable to rafting and bathing. Several hotels do have golf and tennis facilities, but this is not the destination for clients who want a Riviera-style vacation with white beaches, spas, and gambling galore. Even aquasports are limited.