Guest Report

[Julian Witor]

We chose Tobago because of it's reputation for unspoilt nature and to escape the long British winter. We flew from Gatwick to Tobago with BA via Antigua. We were met at the airport by Denise who was very friendly and helpful. She took us to numerous cashpoints (had problem with debit card) and the supermarket before we made the hour long drive to Parlatuvier. We arrived at Essex Cottage around 9pm and were warmly welcomed by Bea and Win the owners. Denise had phoned ahead and Bea had very kindly rustled up a spaggy bol for us. Essex Cottage is beautiful and had everything we needed. The view of the rainforest from the veranda is full of beautiful flowers and birds. The dawn chorus is spectacular and the birds visiting the feeders on the veranda were overwhelming. We spent most evenings with the citronella candle burning, drinking carib beer and eating pistachios whilst playing board games with the children and listening to the sounds of the crickets. We self-catered most of the time and had the occasional breakfast of pancakes with maple syrup and fresh tropical fruit with Bea and Win. Parlatuvier is a quiet tourist destination and is ideal for those who love flora, fauna, peace and quiet. The snorkelling at Parlatuvier bay was good and the backdrop of the rainforest to the beach is breathtaking. We walked daily from the cottage down the steps to the beach and usually went back to the cottage for lunch and a siesta. The children loved playing in Bea and Win's pool which was a real bonus.
What you need to know: CASH IS KING, virtually no one up on the north west takes credit cards and the nearest cashpoint is an hour away - take cash with you ideally and try I.C.E. or Nationwide Visa debit card for the best rates. We spent about 100 GBP per day for a family of 4 on food, drink and going out. Check your MOBILE PHONE is going to work in Tobago (American system) before you go. I am with O2 and couldn't use it, which was a pain when checking-in with the house-sitter back home. Get a good MOSQUITOE REPELLENT as the mosquitoes will bite you to bits in the evenings if you're not protected. Check the WEATHER for when you're going - Tobago isn't lush and green for no reason. We had unseasonal rain but it remained warm. THE BEST BITS: Bea and Win's kindness, helpfulness, warmth and hospitality; the birds and plants; The Riverside Restaurant and Gloria the chef; Essex Cottage itself; Roti from Mason Hall; the warm caribbean sea; caramelised plantain. We will definitely return to Parlatuvier - for longer, next time.