Best bug stuff for first timers to Tobago??
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Anbjørn Grindheim
We're just home after 3 weeks, mostly in Castara (review to come later) and had almost no problem with sand flies or mosquitos at all. I think I maybe had 2-3 bites the first days and my girlfriend had none. I used a repellent named Go while my girlfriend used a mix of Go and citronella. Since this was our first visit we were nervous for insect bites, but it seemed that we had nothing to fear. Or, as one of the Castara locals said to us: "Consider yourself lucky!"
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David Watkins
- Bude Cool Boy
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- Location: Bude Cornwall uk
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Marian Young
David - I am jealous!!! 10 weeks there!!! I was there for a week only in October - and want to be there again right now. I dont like these dark chill evenings driving home from work - They can't get the heating right where I work - and I have been chilled all day there - I want the warmth again - you lucky devil!! have a good time though. Marian 
PS - Any room in your suitcase? I'm only little!
PS - Any room in your suitcase? I'm only little!-
D. Gould
- Tobago Guru
- Posts: 27
- Joined: Mon Aug 30, 2004 10:43 pm
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
zana-click
what is a zana-click? i discovered in 2003 that i was allergic to mosquito bites after being attacked in maracas bay hotel in trinidad. i use 99% deet on exposed parts now, but that is not the best stuff to put on.
i have heard people mention boot's mat on this forum, what is that? i think that you all from the uk have a very good supply of tropical repellants, because i have not seen these in the u.s.
i also carry citronella which i mix with mineral oil. skin so soft alone does not work for me, neither does the mosquito coils. i have a travel tent that i take to trinidad and tobago and sleep inside of it. my family is in stitches when i assemble it, but after 2003 i can't take chances.
please let me know if you know of anywhere in the u.s. where i can get these electric mats that i have heard about.
i have heard people mention boot's mat on this forum, what is that? i think that you all from the uk have a very good supply of tropical repellants, because i have not seen these in the u.s.
i also carry citronella which i mix with mineral oil. skin so soft alone does not work for me, neither does the mosquito coils. i have a travel tent that i take to trinidad and tobago and sleep inside of it. my family is in stitches when i assemble it, but after 2003 i can't take chances.
please let me know if you know of anywhere in the u.s. where i can get these electric mats that i have heard about.
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Steve Wooler
- myTobago Editor & Chief Anorak
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Hi D
The Zanza-Click is a treatment, not a preventative. It is chemical-free. It is a little electro-mechanical device - like a short fat pen. You press it against the bit and press a button on the top, which sends a charge of electricity through the bite. It basically stops the itching and urge to scratch the bite and can reduce swelling and skin blemishes. Used with an antihistimine cream to heal the bite, it is normally highly effective.
The electric bug mats are available at all/most local stores in Tobago - and I would imagine that includes Pennysavers - although, in fairness, PennySavers are more of a grocery store and don't really get involved with hardware. Chances are that the village store nearest to wherever you are staying will have one.
The Zanza-Click is a treatment, not a preventative. It is chemical-free. It is a little electro-mechanical device - like a short fat pen. You press it against the bit and press a button on the top, which sends a charge of electricity through the bite. It basically stops the itching and urge to scratch the bite and can reduce swelling and skin blemishes. Used with an antihistimine cream to heal the bite, it is normally highly effective.
The electric bug mats are available at all/most local stores in Tobago - and I would imagine that includes Pennysavers - although, in fairness, PennySavers are more of a grocery store and don't really get involved with hardware. Chances are that the village store nearest to wherever you are staying will have one.
Steve Wooler
myTobago.info - the definitive Visitor Guide to Tobago
myTobago.info - the definitive Visitor Guide to Tobago
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Steve Fifield
PennySavers definately sell them. We've bought a new one there each year, and replacement mats are not expensive.
Personally, I'm beginning to believe that most bites happen away from your bedrooom - either on the beach (sand flies are the worst) or in the evenings when at restaurants. Ask for a mossie coil or citronella candle if you are concerned.
Steve F.
Personally, I'm beginning to believe that most bites happen away from your bedrooom - either on the beach (sand flies are the worst) or in the evenings when at restaurants. Ask for a mossie coil or citronella candle if you are concerned.
Steve F.
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Steve Wooler
- myTobago Editor & Chief Anorak
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Thanks for that confirmation, Steve.
Actually, I totally agree with you. I don't think Jill or I have had a mossie bite between us in the last six years (although, in fairness, we only go during the dry season when mossies are least active). It's always the blasted sandflies. At least we think they are sandflies. The trouble with the little bxxxxxs is that you can't see them and don't feel them bite. They're definitely worst during the very late afternoon/dusk period but it can be just a bad walking across grass. However, a fresh application of deterrent, with a double-layer around the ankles, normally works for us. Then, a careful examination of the legs and ankles in paticular before going to bed and liberal application of Anthisan, repeated in the morning, normally prevents them ever becoming a problem. It's a pain, but a rigorous disciplined approach can make the entire problem nothing more than a minor inconvenience.
Actually, I totally agree with you. I don't think Jill or I have had a mossie bite between us in the last six years (although, in fairness, we only go during the dry season when mossies are least active). It's always the blasted sandflies. At least we think they are sandflies. The trouble with the little bxxxxxs is that you can't see them and don't feel them bite. They're definitely worst during the very late afternoon/dusk period but it can be just a bad walking across grass. However, a fresh application of deterrent, with a double-layer around the ankles, normally works for us. Then, a careful examination of the legs and ankles in paticular before going to bed and liberal application of Anthisan, repeated in the morning, normally prevents them ever becoming a problem. It's a pain, but a rigorous disciplined approach can make the entire problem nothing more than a minor inconvenience.
Steve Wooler
myTobago.info - the definitive Visitor Guide to Tobago
myTobago.info - the definitive Visitor Guide to Tobago
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Jane H
- Tobago Fanatic
- Posts: 316
- Joined: Thu Sep 23, 2004 9:00 pm
- Location: Cotswolds, England
Just one word of caution - zanza-clic is an effective remedial treatment for insect bites but is definitely NOT recommended for anyone with epilepsy or certain other medical conditions. Do check packaging to ensure that it is suitable for you to use. (Apparently the problem can be something to do with the electrical stimulus produced by the gadget.)
Jane
Jane
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Steve Wooler
- myTobago Editor & Chief Anorak
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- Location: Suffolk, England
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David Watkins
- Bude Cool Boy
- Posts: 1990
- Joined: Sat Nov 01, 2003 12:12 pm
- Location: Bude Cornwall uk
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Cornelia Montgomery
Re: zana-click
[quote="D. Gould"]what is a zana-click?
I just did a google search for the device. Interestingly, about 90% of references were U.K. in origin. I wonder if the device is marketed under another name in the U.S., or if it's not approved for use here yet. I haven't seen it advertised or in any pharmacies, but then I haven't been looking for it. As a frequent victim of noseeums, I'd love to have something that would stop the itching.
I will search on.
I just did a google search for the device. Interestingly, about 90% of references were U.K. in origin. I wonder if the device is marketed under another name in the U.S., or if it's not approved for use here yet. I haven't seen it advertised or in any pharmacies, but then I haven't been looking for it. As a frequent victim of noseeums, I'd love to have something that would stop the itching.
I will search on.
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M Doolan
ALLERGIC REACTIONS TO MOSQUITOES
I have read with interest everything written about prevention of mosquito bites and which products to use.
I myself am very unfortunate when it comes to Mosquito bites. It doesn't matter what I use they always bite me and I always get quite a bad reaction. This year however was the worst. My bites swelled up leaving a huge red circle with the sting in the middle growing into a large blister. I attended the doctors in Scarborough and he used a scalpel to cut off the blisters. He gave me three injections - one for pain, one as an antibiotic and a Piritone anti-histamine injection. (Total cost approx £40). He also have me an antibiotic cream which I had to put on the wounds after swimming (Yes I could still go swimming - although they did sting a little initially). The swelling reduced instantly and the wounds healed up nicely - no scars now.
Previous to flying to Tobago I took anti-histamine tablets for two weeks. I never went anywhere at any time of the day without spraying myself with OFF. Despite having air-conditioning in our room I also used the mosquito net. I have tried every remedy going.
Next time I travel I will ask my doctor here at home to give me a Piritone injection before I travel. Now I know I don't need to suffer! If anyone wishes to see some really yukky photos of these bites - just ask as I took them with my digital camera so that I could show my GP.
I myself am very unfortunate when it comes to Mosquito bites. It doesn't matter what I use they always bite me and I always get quite a bad reaction. This year however was the worst. My bites swelled up leaving a huge red circle with the sting in the middle growing into a large blister. I attended the doctors in Scarborough and he used a scalpel to cut off the blisters. He gave me three injections - one for pain, one as an antibiotic and a Piritone anti-histamine injection. (Total cost approx £40). He also have me an antibiotic cream which I had to put on the wounds after swimming (Yes I could still go swimming - although they did sting a little initially). The swelling reduced instantly and the wounds healed up nicely - no scars now.
Previous to flying to Tobago I took anti-histamine tablets for two weeks. I never went anywhere at any time of the day without spraying myself with OFF. Despite having air-conditioning in our room I also used the mosquito net. I have tried every remedy going.
Next time I travel I will ask my doctor here at home to give me a Piritone injection before I travel. Now I know I don't need to suffer! If anyone wishes to see some really yukky photos of these bites - just ask as I took them with my digital camera so that I could show my GP.
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Jane H
- Tobago Fanatic
- Posts: 316
- Joined: Thu Sep 23, 2004 9:00 pm
- Location: Cotswolds, England
If you are thinking of taking an over-the-counter anti-histamine course prior to departure and during your stay to counteract the effect of any insect/mozzie bites, Piriton, unless in a non-drowsy formulation, may not be the most appropriate. If you are not used to it (i.e. not a hay-fever sufferer) it can make you feel very sleepy (not great if you intend to drive, especially on some of the more interesting Tobagan roads), and generally does not mix too well with alcohol (unless you're looking for that ultimate buzz! ).
Personally, I take Clarityn (or it's generic equivalent). One tablet a day, non-drowsy and (so far) no unfortunate reactions with alcohol. I do react badly to any insect bites, but this seems to lessen the impact. I guess the safest thing, if in doubt, is to check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Hope this is of some help
Jane
).Personally, I take Clarityn (or it's generic equivalent). One tablet a day, non-drowsy and (so far) no unfortunate reactions with alcohol. I do react badly to any insect bites, but this seems to lessen the impact. I guess the safest thing, if in doubt, is to check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Hope this is of some help
Jane
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Paul Tallet
- Weather Guru
- Posts: 3641
- Joined: Wed Dec 24, 2003 3:43 am
- Location: Yorkshire
Hi everyone
Just a few points ...
Cornelia ... could you please explain what a 'noseeum' is ... ??
Also, I can tell you that Lanacane goes a long way to soothing itchiness and it is available in most Chemists in Tobago. It has a local anaesthetic in it that numbs the said sensitive areas.
The 'Zana-Click' sounds lethal and could cut short anyone's holiday without notice ... is it worth the risk??
M Doolan ... I suspect that you have suffered from an attack by a vicious gang of sandflies whilst innocently perching on a tranquil sandy beach ... I am not aware of bad mossie bites unless you frequent swamps or trudge endlessly through the rainforest.
Jane ... I have a theory that it is the alcohol in the blood that attracts sandflies and mosquitoes, so you may as well have the drowsy version and be done with it.
If you want to know how to win the War ...
... I would recommend preventative measures ... and a clear head !!
I spend a small fortune on lemon eucaliptus from a health shop plus back up supplies of Boot's own brand eucaliptus jelly.
I keep it smeared on and I absolutely stink and I don't care because it works as long as I am jellified.
If I slip up and get nipped badly then there is further back-up from the Lanacane and, then, if I start showing signs of fever/coma, my trusty nurse/wife can revive me by applying vast quantities of her wide and impressive collection of antibiotic creams!!
Sheer bliss.
Just a few points ...
Cornelia ... could you please explain what a 'noseeum' is ... ??
Also, I can tell you that Lanacane goes a long way to soothing itchiness and it is available in most Chemists in Tobago. It has a local anaesthetic in it that numbs the said sensitive areas.
The 'Zana-Click' sounds lethal and could cut short anyone's holiday without notice ... is it worth the risk??
M Doolan ... I suspect that you have suffered from an attack by a vicious gang of sandflies whilst innocently perching on a tranquil sandy beach ... I am not aware of bad mossie bites unless you frequent swamps or trudge endlessly through the rainforest.
Jane ... I have a theory that it is the alcohol in the blood that attracts sandflies and mosquitoes, so you may as well have the drowsy version and be done with it.
If you want to know how to win the War ...
... I would recommend preventative measures ... and a clear head !!
I spend a small fortune on lemon eucaliptus from a health shop plus back up supplies of Boot's own brand eucaliptus jelly.
I keep it smeared on and I absolutely stink and I don't care because it works as long as I am jellified.
If I slip up and get nipped badly then there is further back-up from the Lanacane and, then, if I start showing signs of fever/coma, my trusty nurse/wife can revive me by applying vast quantities of her wide and impressive collection of antibiotic creams!!
Sheer bliss.
Paul Tallet
Public Relations Consultant for Mother Nature
Public Relations Consultant for Mother Nature
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Cornelia Montgomery
Hi, Paul,
I let a regionalism slip into my post. Up here in New England, there are a few beaches infamous for their "no-see-ums," so-called because you can't see 'um, you just know you've been bitten later. These pests aren't at all beaches, just some, for reasons that still puzzle me. Noseeums are just sand flies or sand fleas.
The term is probably used in other areas of the U.S., too.
Whatever you call 'um, I end up with itchy welts on my legs if I forget the repellant. I try to remember to stick some foil-wrapped repellant wipes in my purse for when I'm caught slacking. I really got caught last winter in Tobago, so I head back in February determined not to repeat the experience. I also once experienced some jellyfish stings in Tobago (once out of many, many swims there); There were three fist-sized patches on my legs; they were irritating but not as bad as those d**ned noseeums.
I let a regionalism slip into my post. Up here in New England, there are a few beaches infamous for their "no-see-ums," so-called because you can't see 'um, you just know you've been bitten later. These pests aren't at all beaches, just some, for reasons that still puzzle me. Noseeums are just sand flies or sand fleas.
The term is probably used in other areas of the U.S., too.
Whatever you call 'um, I end up with itchy welts on my legs if I forget the repellant. I try to remember to stick some foil-wrapped repellant wipes in my purse for when I'm caught slacking. I really got caught last winter in Tobago, so I head back in February determined not to repeat the experience. I also once experienced some jellyfish stings in Tobago (once out of many, many swims there); There were three fist-sized patches on my legs; they were irritating but not as bad as those d**ned noseeums.
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Paul Tallet
- Weather Guru
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- Joined: Wed Dec 24, 2003 3:43 am
- Location: Yorkshire
Thanks Cornelia
I will make 'Noseeums' my new word of the week ... fantastic!!
And yes there are some 'Noseeum Jellyfish' in Tobago ... I think someone on this forum once referred to them as sea ants ... harmless but they still sting and if allergic to them you do come out in some quite large rashes.
The 'Noseeum Sandflies' are much much worse.
Regards
Paul
I will make 'Noseeums' my new word of the week ... fantastic!!
And yes there are some 'Noseeum Jellyfish' in Tobago ... I think someone on this forum once referred to them as sea ants ... harmless but they still sting and if allergic to them you do come out in some quite large rashes.
The 'Noseeum Sandflies' are much much worse.
Regards
Paul
Paul Tallet
Public Relations Consultant for Mother Nature
Public Relations Consultant for Mother Nature
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David Watkins
- Bude Cool Boy
- Posts: 1990
- Joined: Sat Nov 01, 2003 12:12 pm
- Location: Bude Cornwall uk
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Jane H
- Tobago Fanatic
- Posts: 316
- Joined: Thu Sep 23, 2004 9:00 pm
- Location: Cotswolds, England
Hi Cornelia
If you are still looking for zanza-click - try the following website which is US based.
shop.store.yahoo.com/shopsourceone/za2pa.html
Zanza-Click (2 Pack) Zanza-Click is a revolutionary and successful treatment against the urge to scratch caused by bites from mosquitoes.
I think the cost was $14.99 for the pack.
Hope this helps
Jane
If you are still looking for zanza-click - try the following website which is US based.
shop.store.yahoo.com/shopsourceone/za2pa.html
Zanza-Click (2 Pack) Zanza-Click is a revolutionary and successful treatment against the urge to scratch caused by bites from mosquitoes.
I think the cost was $14.99 for the pack.
Hope this helps
Jane
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M Doolan
Mossie Bites
Paul,
Thanks for your comments - However I can guarantee you that as a frequent traveller and frequent sufferer from mosquito bites, they were definitely attributed to mosquitos and not sand flies. Within hours of arriving in Tobago I was bitten and it was these same bites that flared up into blisters. It is rare I admit but it does happen.
Thanks for your comments - However I can guarantee you that as a frequent traveller and frequent sufferer from mosquito bites, they were definitely attributed to mosquitos and not sand flies. Within hours of arriving in Tobago I was bitten and it was these same bites that flared up into blisters. It is rare I admit but it does happen.