Guest Report

[David Fontaine]

I really believe this is THE place to stay in Castara. We stayed in the upper apartment and can't believe there are better views in Castara. The mainly wooden building is full of character and contains everything you need including lovely hot showers, that not everywhere has. The view from the bedroom was idyllic, throw open the doors, lie in bed and enjoy a fantastic view. Great birdlife around Carpe Diem and mangoes everywhere, a new supply almost every morning lying on the balcony. Troy, who looks after Carpe Diem, lives next door and is friendly and helpful.

Carpe Diem is well situated, just a couple of minutes down to both bays. Get your fish from the fishermans' co-operative and don't forget to buy bread from the ladies running the village bread oven near to the beach - order it from about 9 am and pick it up early afternoon, try the coconut tarts - superb.

Castara is well situated and away from the touristy part of Tobago. All the sites are within easy reach and although we didn't use it every day appreciated having a car (from Taylors) for the two weeks - the roads were fine. There are some local stores to buy provisions, although we did go into Scarborough a couple of times for a bigger shop. Most of the time we ate fruit and fish though.

We did 2 trips. We went with King David to the rainforest, he was really enthusiastic and knowledgeable even though in August there weren't as many flowers etc as at other times in the year, there are others who are cheaper but I would recommend staying with the well known recommended guides. We also did Ali Baba's boat tour down to Pigeon Point stopping off for snorkelling at several bays on the way - again, really recommended.

Carpe Diem - sieze the day, enjoy Tobago from this perfect place.