Rather than go over old ground (See my 2005 Update), coupled with the fact that having stayed 6 consecutive times at the Naturalist, I can hardly be seen as giving a neutral view ... and therefore I think it would be appropriate to provide some information about new services that Ancle has been introducing and some tips and comments about how to optimise your stay for the benefit of those that decide to go there.
Overview
The Naturalist offers basic and very comfortable accommodation that can be suited to every need. All rooms except the Blue Marlin Suite are at ground level.
The Blue Marlin Suite is not easily accessible for those who are (leggy) disabled and possibly for very young children (toddlers) due to the steps and there is no gate to keep out the local pesky dogs that have a habit of enjoying the use of the sun-beds overnight ... I believe Ancle is working on this but, for the meantime, I just put a couple of upturned chairs at the top of the steps to keep the dawgs out.
The location of Castara makes any of it’s hostelries attractive to tourists that like to explore due to it’s central position along the Caribbean coast of Tobago. Ancle has plenty of cars for rent for those that have places to go and people to upset
Value
I was on a very strict budget this time having chased the rising dollar since last Summer.
It is noticeable how the credit crunch is affecting tourism in Tobago when it became apparent that I could book a last minute deal to stay all-inclusive at the Rex Turtle Beach for 2 weeks at a marginally lower price than the one I paid to stay in the Blue Marlin with Breakfasts and the flight ... having said that I would have had to shell out more on a hire car that came within the optional packaged price I paid for the Blue Marlin.
But who wants to stay at the (currently) seemingly deserted RTB without a means of escape (in a hire car)? Come on, hands up!
New Things
Ancle has already introduced cell phones for each room. You can do this on a Pay-As-You-Go basis and I understand this is much cheaper than bringing your own.
Another new thing that I understand is being introduced is Wireless Internet Connectivity for each room that would be handy for those bringing their lap tops and wanting to stay off the beach.
While I was there, Ancle started doing meals for about $TT40 which is very competitive compared to the prices of other local restaurants which start around the $TT60 level and average about $TT90 per meal depending what you like.
The only problem is the opening hours are only until 4pm. Ancle hopes to extend them to as late as 6pm or later as soon as possible. Having said that, if there is sufficient demand I am sure something can be arranged for large parties in addition to the weekly BBQ that is held every Sunday night ... ooops, should I have said that?
Another noticeable feature is the growth of the fleet of rental cars ... plenty of choice but check the insurance terms on the Naturalist website where the costs concerning damage waiver are clearly explained and the financial consequences of taking flying lessons off nearby cliffs are also clearly disclosed should you be fortunate enough to survive such an adventure.
On the other hand ... no I had better not say it and leave it to your wild imaginations.
How Would You Like It?
The Naturalist can cater for everyone with the exception of the most discerning that would typically dote on luxury accommodation, pampering and a swimming pool to slide into (preferably directly from the sun-bed).
Your experience at the Naturalist can very much depend on what you want.
This last year, I rented the Blue Marlin Suite for a full 2 weeks having previously only stayed in the Suite for up to a week.
This is not a criticism ... just an observation based on my experience ... The Blue Marlin Suite is above the Cafe and accessed by steps leading up the sea-facing side ... nice and private ... but I somehow felt a little cut-off from the maddening crowd, constantly peeping over the sides of the balcony for mischievous Canadians or whatever other trouble was going on below ... or just spying on people!
It was also too convenient to just sit on the balcony at times and enjoy the view rather than allow my bruised and bitten legs to transport me shakily down to the beach and be a part of it.
On the other hand, my past experience of being in the other rooms without sea views compelled me to get out and get more integrated with the daily goings on and to experience the elements at first hand ... it was good for my legs too when they worked!
In between all this is the Kingfish Suite ... a little room with 2 double beds, a Porch and a view of the beach ... this is arguably the best room by far. At least you can say hello to passers by and you won’t miss a trick (or any scandals) if you want to get involved with it.
So ... I would say that the Blue Marlin Suite is ideal for people that want to keep themselves to themselves and/or participate only in acts of self indulgence and pure laziness ... I am not sure if I could hack the sheer tranquillity, outrageously beautiful location and luxury of this apartment again for more than a week ... it’s just not right if you have spent most of your childhood raised on crusts!
For the actioners ... take any room, the ones without sea views force you out into the community, off your laptops/TV’s and out of your beds and you will be wandering aimlessly around Castara and the beach before you even realise it.
My Stay
I loved it ... I always love it. Ancle is such a good host and he looked after me and the other inmates so well while I was there.
Many people go back, several times, this is the backbone of any business and Ancle and his staff are incredibly successful in making you feel more welcome every time ... it becomes home from home.
In closing, I cannot recommend the Naturalist as a great holiday destination ... it is a Great Holiday Institution.
Join the club.
Regards
