Hello to everyone who reads this treath. I would like to write something a bit different , maybe telling the truth ( how I saw it about the Rex and Tobago in general ). I know I will not be very popular with all the users of this forum and receive some nasty comments but I hope it may help someone in the future. First I apologies for my written english......here we go:
We booked our holiday with Virgin out of Gatwick ( always book with a high street tour operator and ask to match prices and to give an additional discount , we payed y £459 for 7 nights room only using Thomas cook, virgin web prices were £499 pp )and had no problems at all. Great flight, good food and plenty of movies on the flight. Transfer to the hotel was quick I think 15 minutes. Now here is what nobody tells you and please these are what I think:
The Hotel is dated and this can clearly been noticed in the toiled where staines are everywhere, air conditioning is very very noisy and if you end up at the far end you could walk for 10 minutes just to see reception.
Being this a 3 *** you would aspect it to be cleaned and feel at home, funny you get a tiny pillow to sleep ( asked for more but none arrived, no hot watter and shower needed to be fixed 2 times on our stay ) . Now we choosed not AI but if this would have been our option I would have called the police. The food in the main restaurant ( and this applies for breakfast, lunch and breakfast ) looks and taste like staff cantine food, you can hardly taste any difference and the menu ( a la carte ) is tiny with just a couple of items like a rock burger, some sandwiches and so on.
Breakfast is continental , sausegges scramble eggs, some vegs but none special. Lunch is like dinner, rice, more rice, minced beef form a can, some powder mash and more boiled vegs like carrots and couliflow. Nothing exotic ......no I am italian and maybe used to good food but I am not willign to fly to the carrib and end up eating cantine food. You may say lucky you haven't payed for it so go out and enjoy? hahaha......you should see the faced of all 200 guest and hear their wispers, if you decied to go and walk about for lunch or dinner be aware that there is nothing and I mean NOTHING for less then 30 mintues walk , yes you could take a taxi but pay about £10 for one way or £15 return. This just for a ride. Plus the average meal in any restaurant will set you another £25 pp ( you will be lucky to pay this and be happy as well, mostly you need around £50 pp for a good deal and without to much buze. Back to the REX: the beach is awafully dirty ( fallen trees, death fishes, fisherman nets and dogs) for what you would aspect ( are we not in the carrabean?) the street wendors are a real pain in the ass as they will disturb you from early till late, ususally there are about 10 to 15 old guys all selling junk like Aloe cream, coco crafts, and sxxx like this. The are luousy , usually drunk or smoked and quite rude. They will always come back and annoy you. Sorry but this is the truth. I am here because I want to relax and not have to apology every 5 minutes. Now if you are with a GF then when she goes and picks up the towler she gets nasty comments for the locals ( you are my dream......would you like to come out with me and that sort) shouldn't they be just friendly? or maybe they are tooooo friendly. If you are AI then you do not pay for drinks ( be aware that the bar closes are 11pm so there isn't much to drink anyway) if you are paying then the following applies: Fruit cocktail £3, beer £1.8, cinzano £2.0 and so on you decide if these are resenable ( you do not have much choice anyway as there is nothing close by) The new swimming pool looks good but 3 people had ear infection on our stay and they all complained to the MM but I haven't seen any cleaner and stayer far from it. poor kids.
If you loose your towler then the Hotel charge you £20, a buffet diner ( cantine ) cost you £18.50 and a burger £6.80 and the wine is just disgusting, trust me on this. Now here is the best trick that no one has menttined so far in this forum ( great by the way!) when you check in the ask you for £100 pound deposti (not your CC but cash ) then when you check out they only give you $850 TT thats about £78 with the current exchange rate. I asked for my £100 and they said or sorry but we do not have any ££££ , hey but weren't my £100 supposed to be a deposit and been kept in a save? no they run and exchanged them without telling me.....hahaha you are smart with me....i call the police.....suddely they offered me my £100. Thanks you AS....LE. In the hoole hotel no one ever smile and everyone ask you for a cigarette so breing plenty and forget any tropical fruits and you will only find water melon and papaya ( where all all the mangos? ....) the funniest think is that you check out at 12.am and your rep tells you that you will be given a room for shower and a light refreshement as your flight ( virgin ) is only at 8.00 but guess what there is only one room available for eveyone so aspect to find a quee for 2 hours before you can shower and I paid £10 cash to a maid to use second free room. I will write more on other parts of this forum about where to go ( nowhere really ) and what to eat ( mainly Somerfields food ) but if you really what some advice as how I see it them email me at [email protected]. I repeat this is what I saw and trust me I have travel around a bit but would not return to the REX, ever. So sad the nearest interesting place is only accessible by car. and if you are on AI then the best bet is the pool bar serving you cheap alcohool.
I hope you understand that this is my personal point and may not be what you have seen .
The truth, very very dissapointed....
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Cher
I am so very sorry that you were treated that way, however, from my travels in the caribbean I know if you want to be treated well, be prepared to pay for it and it does not come cheap. Even though I have booked at the Blue Haven Hotel and according to Luxury Link and many others say it is the best hotel in Tobago, I know it is not really a 5* (compared to other 5* hotels of the world) due to the lack of facilities, a good restaurant etc. The government of Trinidad and Tobago needs to do something about tourism in these islands and should not only depend on the little natural resources they have, tourism could help boost the economy and it all starts with treating the tourists special. There should be more boutique hotels and regular sanitary checks etc.
Hopefully we will not be too turned off from the attitude of the locals and unclean beaches because we plan on bringing a true luxury hotel with complete facilities to this undeveloped or as they say unspoilt island of Tobago. After research and contact with officials in Trinidad I can say we are optimistic.
Finally I will also like to say you cannot compare the food and wine in Tobago to Italy, I mean ............. please. The food and wine in some restaurants in Trinidad are excellent and comparable to some of the best restaurants in the world. I have not been to Tobago but I am sure there are great restaurants there.
Bottomline: If you want the best, be prepared to pay for it.
Hopefully we will not be too turned off from the attitude of the locals and unclean beaches because we plan on bringing a true luxury hotel with complete facilities to this undeveloped or as they say unspoilt island of Tobago. After research and contact with officials in Trinidad I can say we are optimistic.
Finally I will also like to say you cannot compare the food and wine in Tobago to Italy, I mean ............. please. The food and wine in some restaurants in Trinidad are excellent and comparable to some of the best restaurants in the world. I have not been to Tobago but I am sure there are great restaurants there.
Bottomline: If you want the best, be prepared to pay for it.
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Franco
this is not about the best.....
Hi Cher,
I would like to point out that this is not a threat about money as we always enjoy spending ( my miss specially ) but frist there is no way to spend it as there are no shop at all then all the restaurants are a simple rip off and this is what make me angry. We had a two meal course in one of the best place on the tiny island but paying £8.0 for a tiny portion of stuffed mushroom with Crab meat ( have seen no meat just two mushrooms ) I feel to be conned. here is another trip: make sure that you check the change you get as they think sometimes that you deserve less as they think you haven't tipped them. Now do we not fly such a long distance because we want to eat something different ? something tropical? something special? having rice and fried little prawns is not what I imagine when booking a ticket. The only concept of fish for them is Tuna or maccarele ( you can find them in cans at M&S ), where are the octopus, king prawns, angustines, shells and mussels and the lovely fresh fruits? no where to be seen.........if you really enjoy a smile then fly to Thailand or Malaysia. You get plenty of these and all your dreams come through. Have a nice holiday . ( I did not tell anyone yet about sunday shool and what they think is night life.........but will follow shortly, ready it and have some fun.)
Franco
I would like to point out that this is not a threat about money as we always enjoy spending ( my miss specially ) but frist there is no way to spend it as there are no shop at all then all the restaurants are a simple rip off and this is what make me angry. We had a two meal course in one of the best place on the tiny island but paying £8.0 for a tiny portion of stuffed mushroom with Crab meat ( have seen no meat just two mushrooms ) I feel to be conned. here is another trip: make sure that you check the change you get as they think sometimes that you deserve less as they think you haven't tipped them. Now do we not fly such a long distance because we want to eat something different ? something tropical? something special? having rice and fried little prawns is not what I imagine when booking a ticket. The only concept of fish for them is Tuna or maccarele ( you can find them in cans at M&S ), where are the octopus, king prawns, angustines, shells and mussels and the lovely fresh fruits? no where to be seen.........if you really enjoy a smile then fly to Thailand or Malaysia. You get plenty of these and all your dreams come through. Have a nice holiday . ( I did not tell anyone yet about sunday shool and what they think is night life.........but will follow shortly, ready it and have some fun.)
Franco
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John Hill
My if only Italy was perfect. No crime, No Mess, No sex.
Let me say, the first thing you do when booking a holiday is called research read about the place you are visiting study the brochures.
The money you paid is the flight cost so you had a free holiday. I stayed at The Rex in 2003 and had the best holiday ever its what you make it go with an open mind. You say you tell the truth 10 minutes walk to reception on your hands and knees, all rooms are beach front and low rise 2 storeys only so what you want is 20 storey high block where you wait 10 minutes for the lift !!. I could say much all I can say is I went to another Rex Hotel this year and can honestly say they are a good group at reasonable prices, you gets what you pay for.
For people reading Franco's report do not be put of you will have a super time Marc, come on in and the other folk who have enjoy The Rex.
And Franco please let me know where you are holidaying next so I can avoid you.
Let me say, the first thing you do when booking a holiday is called research read about the place you are visiting study the brochures.
The money you paid is the flight cost so you had a free holiday. I stayed at The Rex in 2003 and had the best holiday ever its what you make it go with an open mind. You say you tell the truth 10 minutes walk to reception on your hands and knees, all rooms are beach front and low rise 2 storeys only so what you want is 20 storey high block where you wait 10 minutes for the lift !!. I could say much all I can say is I went to another Rex Hotel this year and can honestly say they are a good group at reasonable prices, you gets what you pay for.
For people reading Franco's report do not be put of you will have a super time Marc, come on in and the other folk who have enjoy The Rex.
And Franco please let me know where you are holidaying next so I can avoid you.
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John Hill
I have just looked back on Franco's post look at this
Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 10:22 pm Post subject: Has anybody read this?....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I feel so sorry for myself as this is where I am staying for 7 nigths on Sept. I hope they found the causes and apply a solution to it.
Here is the article:
The Rex Turtle Beach Hotel was thrown into the spotlight following reports that 14 of its guests became ill and had to undergo medical treatment last week Saturday.........
http://www.thetobagonews.com/index.pl/a ... id=1001025
Should I cancel my holiday?
DID HE WANT TO GO THERE IN THE FIRST PLACE, I REST MY CASE.
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Marian Young
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Cher
Marian:
I felt the same after reading a review from Tripadvisor about the Blue Haven Hotel. Even though I have not yet visited, I know I will have a great time. Just go with a positive attitude and remember that even if the place is not great, you don't have to be indoors all the time. You are there to discover, learn different cultures and enjoy the beaches, weather and ecotourism. How much time do you really spend indoors? Also, if the food is not great at one place then try another, Steve has listed some great restaurants. Rent a car, get a picnic basket, and enjoy. Make the best out of everything. I know how you feel and I have to say thanks to Steve and my boyfriend for giving me this positive attitude.
I felt the same after reading a review from Tripadvisor about the Blue Haven Hotel. Even though I have not yet visited, I know I will have a great time. Just go with a positive attitude and remember that even if the place is not great, you don't have to be indoors all the time. You are there to discover, learn different cultures and enjoy the beaches, weather and ecotourism. How much time do you really spend indoors? Also, if the food is not great at one place then try another, Steve has listed some great restaurants. Rent a car, get a picnic basket, and enjoy. Make the best out of everything. I know how you feel and I have to say thanks to Steve and my boyfriend for giving me this positive attitude.
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Jill M
- Oh, so Sad!
- Posts: 191
- Joined: Sun Mar 28, 2004 9:55 pm
- Location: Burton on Trent, England
What a shame you didn't read the comments on this site before you went ! It is detailed that there is nothing for miles around - you can't blame the hotel for that - it's just how it is.
If you go to the hotel with an attitude that you are expecting 5 star treatment in a lower class hotel, then it is no wonder the staff treated you badly.
We went earlier this year and I am desperate to get back there and we have considered other hotels, but the setting is what you pay for. Yes the hotel is dated, but you get what you pay for and to be honest you'd be pushed to find a decent hotel in the overcrowded Costas in Spain for that price !
The food was okay at the Rex. It's not Egon Roney, but you didn't pay for that ! We stayed All Inclusive and definately got value for money with the drinks and food. We had no complaints at all.
The beach is not dirty ! The dead fish are the end of the day's catch - were you not fascinated to see the men in the morning pulling in their catch? - you obviously got there after they had finished, but the beautiful pelicans and other birds had not had chance to come and clean it up.
The beach traders were great fun ! - this is how they make a living in Tobago - It wasn't you that went there are the same time as me and was shouting at them was it? Expect the same in return !
I appreciate that you have your own opinions on the hotel and you are entitled to them, but I just hope that not everyone take this to heart and I also hope that for your next holiday that you do some research on the country before you go.
Almost everything that you mention is either a way of life in Tobago - and who are we as visitors to say it is not right ? or it is not to your personal standards - You get what you pay for !
If you go to the hotel with an attitude that you are expecting 5 star treatment in a lower class hotel, then it is no wonder the staff treated you badly.
We went earlier this year and I am desperate to get back there and we have considered other hotels, but the setting is what you pay for. Yes the hotel is dated, but you get what you pay for and to be honest you'd be pushed to find a decent hotel in the overcrowded Costas in Spain for that price !
The food was okay at the Rex. It's not Egon Roney, but you didn't pay for that ! We stayed All Inclusive and definately got value for money with the drinks and food. We had no complaints at all.
The beach is not dirty ! The dead fish are the end of the day's catch - were you not fascinated to see the men in the morning pulling in their catch? - you obviously got there after they had finished, but the beautiful pelicans and other birds had not had chance to come and clean it up.
The beach traders were great fun ! - this is how they make a living in Tobago - It wasn't you that went there are the same time as me and was shouting at them was it? Expect the same in return !
I appreciate that you have your own opinions on the hotel and you are entitled to them, but I just hope that not everyone take this to heart and I also hope that for your next holiday that you do some research on the country before you go.
Almost everything that you mention is either a way of life in Tobago - and who are we as visitors to say it is not right ? or it is not to your personal standards - You get what you pay for !
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Franco
to all of you......
As John has showed my first post I asked if there were to be any concern and everyone told me ohh don't worry you will be fine......funny this is what the staff told the 3 people who got ear infection on the pool, I did some research and went with a open mind, I find out that there was a food poisin situation and not only 1 or 2 but 14 , please read post. Then I don't want this post to be Franco against everyone else.....or I like to be the bad guy....what I want is different views so that everyone can make up his own mind and decide......I just put up a simple advise: I you think this will be your dream holiday then be aware that some things may turn up a bit different , unless you dont mind and are very easy going on whatever happens. Maybe I am a dreamer and though of the last unspoilt island of the carrabian as a paradise. hey John , if I wanted to go to Italy I would have done wouldn't I? and I know that there is sex drung and mafia in certain place, If you need any advice on where to go let me know and I will help. Now here is what nobody else tells you:
The hotel bar closed at 11pm, what do you do on your holiday afterwards? nothing......go to sleep. Where do you bring your misses so that you feel safe and she can enjoy it whitout 50 long hair sex maniac try to board here? nowhere......ohh sorry forgot that there is something called Sunday School , what a laugh.......i was really looking forward to it, we got ready all day just to be able to enjoy one night out, just one night but it turned to be a fake party, out of the 500 people that turned up at 10pm 90% where turist ( some from the Rex) and after 3 minutes I managed to see everything there was: 2 stalls selling rice and fried chicked, 3 stalls selling t-shirts and painted coconuts and I silly gambling stands that was ridicoulus run by the locals against the turists for a total of 6 stalls. Now the rest of the 90% of the people where trying to sell me all kind of drugs and as soon as I left by GF alone there where long hair guys trying to dance (?) with her. I have never seen something so miserable and dirty. I once visited a place in Burma , we where only 30 people but had a great night, felt safe ( on Sunday School i had to follow my GF to the toilet as it was a bit dark , like a dungeon for her and you never know who was behind a corner) and we drunk and danced with the local until 5am, everyone smiled and wanted the best for us. We even improvised a BBQ and everyone shared a bit. I tell you what happened to some poor tourist so that it will not happen to you: They bought something to smoke and it turned up that they were undercover policeman ( for me there were just junks, low life people ) who asked for $200 US for not investigation this further and let them go, they holded on to the guy while the girl was going to get the money. BE AWARE and do not buy any drugs anywhere, and I mean ANYWHERE , you can easly end up in trouble for a simple £10. Now the sea at the front of the REX looks a bit dirty , why did no one mentioned that there is a little river so that when it rains it makes the see all brownie? I thought that the water would be cristal clear......or just blue, but no, nothing like this.
I know that sometimes it is hard to admit that you didn't had the best of all time, specially when you are with Friends but these forums a here, free, so that everyone can tell you the truth, their own truth and you decide. If you stay at the REX the there is a little place called Black Rock caffee just 15 minutes walk and offers you the following: started as little prawns with ketchup ( yes ) and some lettuce for £5 and Fried Scrimps ( total of 5 ) with rice and boiled carrots for another £18 plus £2 for a drink ( pineple from the cartoon ) for a total of £25 + 10% service and this is the most awfull food you will ever have anywhere you go, I had better food in Angola during the Civil war and it only costed me $10, yes £7. On our 3 day I was tired and told a beach vendor selling island trips the following before he spoke: Thanks but we dont need anything......you know his answer? YOU are racist, don't come to Tobago, you sxxx while As..ole. Two hours after all the vendors where against me and said : You big man, we are not scared of you. I though just F..k off please. Another day I woke up at 6am and though to enjoy the beach and early sun, a guy came , with a very friendly look and collected two coconuts , one for him and one for me, I thoughed I must be wrong, there are nice people, he just offered me a fresh coconut, he made a hole , we drunk and after he asked me for $40 and wouldn't without the money.......nice guy. This is not how i dreamed about my holidays, really. I will avoid this part of the Carribe for long long time. And I hade the feeling that this was not only my impression but for most of the guest at the REX and about. Again if you need any sensible tips then email me at [email protected] , As you can all see I am not hiding my nameor work for others here. I really hope that you enjoy your stay and plan ahead ( keep some room on your CC ) and make sure you know what you will find.
I repeat this is my view and may be different for you. Enjoy the wonderfull time with your partners.
Franco
The hotel bar closed at 11pm, what do you do on your holiday afterwards? nothing......go to sleep. Where do you bring your misses so that you feel safe and she can enjoy it whitout 50 long hair sex maniac try to board here? nowhere......ohh sorry forgot that there is something called Sunday School , what a laugh.......i was really looking forward to it, we got ready all day just to be able to enjoy one night out, just one night but it turned to be a fake party, out of the 500 people that turned up at 10pm 90% where turist ( some from the Rex) and after 3 minutes I managed to see everything there was: 2 stalls selling rice and fried chicked, 3 stalls selling t-shirts and painted coconuts and I silly gambling stands that was ridicoulus run by the locals against the turists for a total of 6 stalls. Now the rest of the 90% of the people where trying to sell me all kind of drugs and as soon as I left by GF alone there where long hair guys trying to dance (?) with her. I have never seen something so miserable and dirty. I once visited a place in Burma , we where only 30 people but had a great night, felt safe ( on Sunday School i had to follow my GF to the toilet as it was a bit dark , like a dungeon for her and you never know who was behind a corner) and we drunk and danced with the local until 5am, everyone smiled and wanted the best for us. We even improvised a BBQ and everyone shared a bit. I tell you what happened to some poor tourist so that it will not happen to you: They bought something to smoke and it turned up that they were undercover policeman ( for me there were just junks, low life people ) who asked for $200 US for not investigation this further and let them go, they holded on to the guy while the girl was going to get the money. BE AWARE and do not buy any drugs anywhere, and I mean ANYWHERE , you can easly end up in trouble for a simple £10. Now the sea at the front of the REX looks a bit dirty , why did no one mentioned that there is a little river so that when it rains it makes the see all brownie? I thought that the water would be cristal clear......or just blue, but no, nothing like this.
I know that sometimes it is hard to admit that you didn't had the best of all time, specially when you are with Friends but these forums a here, free, so that everyone can tell you the truth, their own truth and you decide. If you stay at the REX the there is a little place called Black Rock caffee just 15 minutes walk and offers you the following: started as little prawns with ketchup ( yes ) and some lettuce for £5 and Fried Scrimps ( total of 5 ) with rice and boiled carrots for another £18 plus £2 for a drink ( pineple from the cartoon ) for a total of £25 + 10% service and this is the most awfull food you will ever have anywhere you go, I had better food in Angola during the Civil war and it only costed me $10, yes £7. On our 3 day I was tired and told a beach vendor selling island trips the following before he spoke: Thanks but we dont need anything......you know his answer? YOU are racist, don't come to Tobago, you sxxx while As..ole. Two hours after all the vendors where against me and said : You big man, we are not scared of you. I though just F..k off please. Another day I woke up at 6am and though to enjoy the beach and early sun, a guy came , with a very friendly look and collected two coconuts , one for him and one for me, I thoughed I must be wrong, there are nice people, he just offered me a fresh coconut, he made a hole , we drunk and after he asked me for $40 and wouldn't without the money.......nice guy. This is not how i dreamed about my holidays, really. I will avoid this part of the Carribe for long long time. And I hade the feeling that this was not only my impression but for most of the guest at the REX and about. Again if you need any sensible tips then email me at [email protected] , As you can all see I am not hiding my nameor work for others here. I really hope that you enjoy your stay and plan ahead ( keep some room on your CC ) and make sure you know what you will find.
I repeat this is my view and may be different for you. Enjoy the wonderfull time with your partners.
Franco
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Marian Young
Thanks to all for the more positive and encouraging replies!! made me feel lots better! A holiday is a treat - and it's good to look forward to. Of course we always expect it to be great - but wherever you go (and I have travelled quite a bit) you will always encounter 'some' negative aspects. Take for example Rome - where I went in January. Beautiful city - but shame about the awful tasteless and highly expensive food in most of the restaurants visited. Admittedly they were not top of the range. However - to receive tinned 'Minestrone soup' at one - was certainly not expected! I love Italy & Italian food - and cook it often, but what was offered, I cook far better. Also, the B & B we stayed in, involved 'Do it yourself' Breakfast. Toast & cereal on the table, plus toaster, etc. Not good - but edible - and we accepted it without banging on about it. It certainly didnt spoil the sights of Rome we had gone for. As long as we don't starve on our Tobagon holiday we won't be complaining (and anyway - I can't imagine eating loads when it's so hot!)- we shall just look forward to a good English meal on return. We have booked a very cheap 7 day room only - to experience the island itself, it's culture & it's people. We don't expect to be in the hotel all day - it is merely to be our base. Perhaps you expect too much Franco ?
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Jill M
- Oh, so Sad!
- Posts: 191
- Joined: Sun Mar 28, 2004 9:55 pm
- Location: Burton on Trent, England
Marian - You will absolutely love it ! Go with the attitude that you have now - enjoy the culture & expect nothing. Be just as friendly to the Tobagoans as you are on this forum and it will be the dream holiday you want.
The Tobago people have such a fantastic attitude to life -remember - a smile and a friendly gesture costs nothing and will be repaid to you tenfold.
The Tobago people have such a fantastic attitude to life -remember - a smile and a friendly gesture costs nothing and will be repaid to you tenfold.
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Marc Jones
I was within 3 rooms of the furthest from reception. Was it a long walk? No, it was a timely stroll. I actually emailed in advance and asked for that end of the beach to be as quiet as possible.
Locals. I saw a couple hang about the pool area (on the other side of the wall, ie on the beach) but I didn't sit by there when using the pool, or I was on another beach. As I have said, get a jeep, go out!
Food. Canteen food? Far from gourmet, but then I never expected it to be and that's why I never went AI.
If you're after great food, pick another country. Want great beaches? Hello Tobago. Deserted, idyllic and beautiful. Busiest beach I sat on was Englishman's Bay, grand total 22 people. You saw my pics, they were typical (ie uncrowded beaches etc).
Is Courland Bay the best beach? No way, knew that before I went. Hence the jeep. (Sea is ok, but why sit by the hotel was my view).
I treated the Rex as a base not a destination.
Aircon, loud? Very. Did it bother me? Nope, too tired to care, asleep in minutes and thankful of the cool air!
The crazy thing is, there is a fantastic Italian restaurant there, La Terrezza, but you need to drive.
I'm not saying some of Franco's post wasn't vaugely familiar sounding (ie it's not invented, it's just how it made him feel) and I'm keen to not see a less-than-idyllic view beaten to a pulp, but I knew what to expect, was not shocked and had a stunning holiday of a lifetime!
Locals. I saw a couple hang about the pool area (on the other side of the wall, ie on the beach) but I didn't sit by there when using the pool, or I was on another beach. As I have said, get a jeep, go out!
Food. Canteen food? Far from gourmet, but then I never expected it to be and that's why I never went AI.
If you're after great food, pick another country. Want great beaches? Hello Tobago. Deserted, idyllic and beautiful. Busiest beach I sat on was Englishman's Bay, grand total 22 people. You saw my pics, they were typical (ie uncrowded beaches etc).
Is Courland Bay the best beach? No way, knew that before I went. Hence the jeep. (Sea is ok, but why sit by the hotel was my view).
I treated the Rex as a base not a destination.
Aircon, loud? Very. Did it bother me? Nope, too tired to care, asleep in minutes and thankful of the cool air!
The crazy thing is, there is a fantastic Italian restaurant there, La Terrezza, but you need to drive.
I'm not saying some of Franco's post wasn't vaugely familiar sounding (ie it's not invented, it's just how it made him feel) and I'm keen to not see a less-than-idyllic view beaten to a pulp, but I knew what to expect, was not shocked and had a stunning holiday of a lifetime!
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Andrew Poole
Hello,
my what a can of worms Franco has opened!
I feel a certain empathy towards him as i'm the only person on here who likes the Tropikist and everyone else thinks i'm mad
Can i start by saying that all the people who have had a go at Italy and all things Italian as a result of Franco's post, have in my opinion, completely missed the point! Slagging off his country is not the way to argue his point!
However, i do wonder how much research you did Franco? I think most people would accept that a 3* hotel in the Caribbean is similar to a 1* in Europe and a 5* equivalent to a 3*. And it has been mentioned countless times on here that a car is definately needed if you stay at the Rex. If you were there on a budget then maybe you should have stayed in the Crown Point area? There are some fantastic places to eat on Tobago, in great locations and with great food but you usually have to travel to get to them.The same goes for the best beaches. Tobago is a developing country and this should also be taken into account. I do agree that being on a Caribbean island there should be an abundance of fresh fruit, fish, etc
The vendors can be a problem but a "no" with a smile usually works, if you are rude or aggressive towards them i can understand them ganging up on you.
That said, if posts like Franco's are met with derrision then all we will ever get on forums is a lovey dovey view of Tobago from a relatively small group of people and the people will go thinking its the most wonderful location in the world (it is
) have a bad experience and come back thinking the islands a horrible place but will not relate their experiences on here for fear of being ridiculed at worst or told they are wrong at best.
We all work hard to pay for our holidays and are all intittled to our opinions and views and personally i would be very wary of a place that just had glowing reports.
I do feel that "you get what you pay for" and at £459 you got good value for money. You really shouldnt let this experience put you off Tobago, i accept its not for everyone but you can't argue against its natural beauty and you should give it a second chance soon because natural beauty is in decline around the world!
Just out of curriosity Franco, you mentioned Angola, was that 93 to 95? Are you ex SADF? Were you there with Eeben Barlows Executive Outcomes with Colonel Hennie Blauuw or UNITA helping Dr. Jonas Savimbi? Or maybe you were Humanitarian Aid? like i said, just currious.
my what a can of worms Franco has opened!
I feel a certain empathy towards him as i'm the only person on here who likes the Tropikist and everyone else thinks i'm mad
Can i start by saying that all the people who have had a go at Italy and all things Italian as a result of Franco's post, have in my opinion, completely missed the point! Slagging off his country is not the way to argue his point!
However, i do wonder how much research you did Franco? I think most people would accept that a 3* hotel in the Caribbean is similar to a 1* in Europe and a 5* equivalent to a 3*. And it has been mentioned countless times on here that a car is definately needed if you stay at the Rex. If you were there on a budget then maybe you should have stayed in the Crown Point area? There are some fantastic places to eat on Tobago, in great locations and with great food but you usually have to travel to get to them.The same goes for the best beaches. Tobago is a developing country and this should also be taken into account. I do agree that being on a Caribbean island there should be an abundance of fresh fruit, fish, etc
The vendors can be a problem but a "no" with a smile usually works, if you are rude or aggressive towards them i can understand them ganging up on you.
That said, if posts like Franco's are met with derrision then all we will ever get on forums is a lovey dovey view of Tobago from a relatively small group of people and the people will go thinking its the most wonderful location in the world (it is
) have a bad experience and come back thinking the islands a horrible place but will not relate their experiences on here for fear of being ridiculed at worst or told they are wrong at best.We all work hard to pay for our holidays and are all intittled to our opinions and views and personally i would be very wary of a place that just had glowing reports.
I do feel that "you get what you pay for" and at £459 you got good value for money. You really shouldnt let this experience put you off Tobago, i accept its not for everyone but you can't argue against its natural beauty and you should give it a second chance soon because natural beauty is in decline around the world!
Just out of curriosity Franco, you mentioned Angola, was that 93 to 95? Are you ex SADF? Were you there with Eeben Barlows Executive Outcomes with Colonel Hennie Blauuw or UNITA helping Dr. Jonas Savimbi? Or maybe you were Humanitarian Aid? like i said, just currious.
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Colin Fairburn
for someone who's slept in a tent in the outback of australia on a camel safari, been almost conned by two ugandan students on the run in Kenya, stayed in various worse than average Greek apartments, been to what I expected was a tropical island (Mauritius) and seen nothing but sugar cane and hardly any palm trees, and been to the Maldives in 91 before it came THE place to go and had to shower under an open air shower with unslalinated luke warm water, and eat what seemed like nothing but cabbage, and had literally a mud hut to sleep in, and STILL enjoyed myself in all locations, I quite look forward to some 'luxury' at the REX!
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Marian Young
Dear Andrew - I think it was only me that 'slagged off Franco's country' (Your quote) which - if you read more carefully - I did not do. I love Italy, and Rome is amazing. I was just trying to say that - eating out anywhere in the world can be a disappointment, ie; I was just making one point re. Franco's very vitriolic general view of his whole holiday experience, which was a shame, and obviously a little off-putting for those about to visit. Of course - I endorse the ability to be able to write of the negatives on a forum here - which makes for positive advice for would be travellers. However, Franco went into such minutea details, ie; 'dead fish & towels'. I felt I had to respond in some way. Marian.
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Andy D
- Oh, so Sad!
- Posts: 188
- Joined: Thu Sep 16, 2004 3:58 pm
- Location: Bristol,England
Rex Turtle Beach Hotel
Hi all,
Firstly let me say that i respect the views of Franco but my partner and i stayed at the Rex at the beginning of July and had the most wonderful time,it was our first long haul holiday and went with a completely open mind,yes some of the staff were a little surly to begin with but after a little while they were fine,very friendly.
We went AI but used the hotel mainly as a base and were out and about everyday exploring the island,we found no problem with the cleanliness of the beach,the vendors where around but again we had no problem,they were friendly and a firm but cheerful 'No thankyou' was all that was needed to send them on their way.
The food at the Rex was perfectly acceptable (especially breakfast),ok it's not Michelin starred but lets not forget where we are! We even met the chef who was very friendly and told us that if we wanted anything specially cooked to let him know,this came in handy for the children who were well catered for.
We ate out at various restaurants and found the local food to be very nice indeed.(Toucan Inn especially).One of the locals even cooked one of the children Crab and chips! Now there's an unusual request.
Regarding ear infections,my partners children are both prone to them but having read up beforehand and drying thoroughly after leaving the pool we had no problems at all.
Our advice to anyone going to The Rex Turtle (and yes we did see one laying) is to read up before you go so that your expectations aren't completely unrealistic and go with an open mind and ENJOY! We certainly did and are going back next May.
Andy
Firstly let me say that i respect the views of Franco but my partner and i stayed at the Rex at the beginning of July and had the most wonderful time,it was our first long haul holiday and went with a completely open mind,yes some of the staff were a little surly to begin with but after a little while they were fine,very friendly.
We went AI but used the hotel mainly as a base and were out and about everyday exploring the island,we found no problem with the cleanliness of the beach,the vendors where around but again we had no problem,they were friendly and a firm but cheerful 'No thankyou' was all that was needed to send them on their way.
The food at the Rex was perfectly acceptable (especially breakfast),ok it's not Michelin starred but lets not forget where we are! We even met the chef who was very friendly and told us that if we wanted anything specially cooked to let him know,this came in handy for the children who were well catered for.
We ate out at various restaurants and found the local food to be very nice indeed.(Toucan Inn especially).One of the locals even cooked one of the children Crab and chips! Now there's an unusual request.
Regarding ear infections,my partners children are both prone to them but having read up beforehand and drying thoroughly after leaving the pool we had no problems at all.
Our advice to anyone going to The Rex Turtle (and yes we did see one laying) is to read up before you go so that your expectations aren't completely unrealistic and go with an open mind and ENJOY! We certainly did and are going back next May.
Andy
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Andrew Poole
Marion, it wasn't just you,
John Hill said
Marion, ive re read your post..maybe you didn't "slag" them off ( my quote) but i feel it was still a bit "tit for tat"
I also feel that dead fish on the beach ( i know
shock horror) and towels arn't minute detail, they are obviously the sort of thing that could spoil someones holiday, they certainly did Franco's but seriously i feel he didn't do anywhere near enough research and went with high expectations but also a fear it was all going to go wrong, due to him reading about 14 illness's in one go! Its why i asked about Angola, i can't believe anyone who was there in 93-95( in whatever capacity) could be put off by a few dead fish 
I also feel that he was being ganged up on.. because he dared to say something bad about Tobago and felt it a bit unfair....i'm the only one on here who likes the Tropikist and everyone else hates it!! Whenever i say something nice about it, there re about 10 people queing up to point out i'm wrong!
We all expect different things,we all go on holiday for different reasons, Franco for example wanted night life, well you have Sunday school, the Golden Star and Divers den all on different nights. Me? i preferred a few drinks at the bar and an early night, i find their pace of life very easy to get on with, i did go to the 3 venues and although i enjoyed them i wouldn't go back to Tobago for the nightlife!
The forum seems the sort of place people come to AFTER they have booked their holiday, when maybe it should be before, this is a fantastic site and although i would dearly love to go back to Tobago this October instead of taking the kids sking over christmas, i can't. Yet i log in to this site at least twice a day because i'm hooked.
Its a wonderful island, with very friendly people and a terriffic holiday destination and whilst i'm sure 99/100 people will love it i will happily read a post from the one who didn't, which as you say Marion, makes for positive advice for would be travellers.
John Hill said
My if only Italy was perfect. No crime, No Mess, No sex.
Marion, ive re read your post..maybe you didn't "slag" them off ( my quote) but i feel it was still a bit "tit for tat"
I also feel that dead fish on the beach ( i know
shock horror) and towels arn't minute detail, they are obviously the sort of thing that could spoil someones holiday, they certainly did Franco's but seriously i feel he didn't do anywhere near enough research and went with high expectations but also a fear it was all going to go wrong, due to him reading about 14 illness's in one go! Its why i asked about Angola, i can't believe anyone who was there in 93-95( in whatever capacity) could be put off by a few dead fish I also feel that he was being ganged up on..
because he dared to say something bad about Tobago and felt it a bit unfair....i'm the only one on here who likes the Tropikist and everyone else hates it!! Whenever i say something nice about it, there re about 10 people queing up to point out i'm wrong!We all expect different things,we all go on holiday for different reasons, Franco for example wanted night life, well you have Sunday school, the Golden Star and Divers den all on different nights. Me? i preferred a few drinks at the bar and an early night, i find their pace of life very easy to get on with, i did go to the 3 venues and although i enjoyed them i wouldn't go back to Tobago for the nightlife!
The forum seems the sort of place people come to AFTER they have booked their holiday, when maybe it should be before, this is a fantastic site and although i would dearly love to go back to Tobago this October instead of taking the kids sking over christmas, i can't. Yet i log in to this site at least twice a day because i'm hooked.
Its a wonderful island, with very friendly people and a terriffic holiday destination and whilst i'm sure 99/100 people will love it i will happily read a post from the one who didn't, which as you say Marion, makes for positive advice for would be travellers.
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Roger D.
- Oh, so Sad!
- Posts: 162
- Joined: Tue Apr 20, 2004 8:55 am
- Location: New Jersey, USA
The truth,very very dissapointed
Cher;Cher wrote: The government of Trinidad and Tobago needs to do something about tourism in these islands and should not only depend on the little natural resources they have, tourism could help boost the economy and it all starts with treating the tourists special.
If you're plannning on building a luxury hotel on the Island of Tobago, obviously you've done your research and if you have, then you would know that Trinidad does not have "little" natural resources. Trinidad supplies the United States with over 73% of it's natural gas, produces over 280,000 barrles of light sweet crude oil per day and another 100,000 barrels of what is called West Texas Intermediate. Trinidad is also a major producer of Methanol, Ethanol and Urea. Pitch is another naturally occuring resource that when refined, Asphalt is derived as the finshed product an is exported all over the world. Therefore the economy does not need a boost, the infrasturcture does. So Trinidad does not depend on Tourism soley as the other islands in the Carribbean. When one travels to Trinidad or Tobago, do not expect the people to overtly cater to you. Trinidadians and Tobagonians are friendly, warm people, if it's a two way street and the superiority attitudes are absent. If you're planning on building a luxury hotel, your view of the county should change.
As far as Franco is concerned, he had a bad experience and he expected more and was dissappointed. Tobago does not offer touristy things as say Barbados, BVI, AVI - It's what you make off it, isolated uncrowded beaches and its a place where you need a car to move around and really experience the Real Tobago - Hotel food is not my idea of authenthic Tobago cusine as in the case of many other countries. Hopefully in time his view may change, but I'm sure we've all had experiences on vacations that did not live up to all of our expectations -
Oh....I like Tropikist too
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Steve Wooler
- myTobago Editor & Chief Anorak
- Posts: 4859
- Joined: Sun Apr 21, 2002 11:00 pm
- Location: Suffolk, England
- Contact:
Hi Guys & Gals
If you don’t all behave, I’ll slap your legs!
Whilst I’ve been largely amused by the different points of view expressed in this thread, I do think you have rather ganged up against Franco. I am a little disappointed by the comments about Italy, which do rather make it a personal attack. Why not criticise London (OK - so the forum hasn’t got enough space) if that’s where Franco is based? In fairness, he did rather start it off with the “I’m Italian, so maybe used to good food” comment.
Lets take this back to basics. Franco wrote his impressions of the Rex Turtle Beach and Tobago generally. Despite the difficulties of not writing in his first language, his report seems to represent genuine, heartfelt impressions. He ends it clearly stating that the report is his personal opinion and may not be that of others.
Now, as most of you will know, I’m the first to jump down the throat of others when I feel that they have posted an untruthful or malicious “grudge” post. I don’t think this was the case with Franco. On the other hand, it’s great to see that the RTB has such a good and loyal following.
My overriding impression is that Franco booked his holiday and THEN started to do his research. He quickly realised that Tobago was not for him, but probably couldn’t cancel his booking. Let’s be honest, Tobago will not be for everyone. A lot of people – particularly the young – would HATE Tobago. As I say on the home page of yTobago, it will not be everyone’s cup of tea (thank heavens)! It’s a chill out place. As I also say, “those wanting 24-hour activity should look elsewhere”.
The RTB is a budget AI establishment. It is not exactly noted for great food. Be reasonable, what do you expect for that price? You’ve flown a round trip of over 8,000 miles with 7-nights accommodation thrown in? At that price it’s a total steal, to be honest.
As John Hill pointed out, it seems that Franco had negative thoughts before he even arrived on the island. He’d rushed out, bought the holiday and then decided to research it. If he spent a little time on this site, he may quickly have realised that Tobago and/or the RTB were not his sort of destination. Fine, but accept that it is YOUR mistake.
In typical Italian fashion (hee, hee!
), Franco has rather exaggerated a few points, so for the benefit of future readers doing PROPER research before booking a holiday at the RTB (or on Tobago), may I please just comment on the following:
The main purpose of this site is to steer visitors to the best of Tobago and away from the worst. That includes the most basic question of the lot – is Tobago right for me? I never say anywhere is better than another place, because what is “best”. No hotel, restaurant or destination is right for everyone. Just don’t screw up and waste your time and money like poor Franco. Do your research BEFORE you book your holiday.
If you don’t all behave, I’ll slap your legs!
Whilst I’ve been largely amused by the different points of view expressed in this thread, I do think you have rather ganged up against Franco. I am a little disappointed by the comments about Italy, which do rather make it a personal attack. Why not criticise London (OK - so the forum hasn’t got enough space) if that’s where Franco is based? In fairness, he did rather start it off with the “I’m Italian, so maybe used to good food” comment.
Lets take this back to basics. Franco wrote his impressions of the Rex Turtle Beach and Tobago generally. Despite the difficulties of not writing in his first language, his report seems to represent genuine, heartfelt impressions. He ends it clearly stating that the report is his personal opinion and may not be that of others.
Now, as most of you will know, I’m the first to jump down the throat of others when I feel that they have posted an untruthful or malicious “grudge” post. I don’t think this was the case with Franco. On the other hand, it’s great to see that the RTB has such a good and loyal following.
My overriding impression is that Franco booked his holiday and THEN started to do his research. He quickly realised that Tobago was not for him, but probably couldn’t cancel his booking. Let’s be honest, Tobago will not be for everyone. A lot of people – particularly the young – would HATE Tobago. As I say on the home page of yTobago, it will not be everyone’s cup of tea (thank heavens)! It’s a chill out place. As I also say, “those wanting 24-hour activity should look elsewhere”.
The RTB is a budget AI establishment. It is not exactly noted for great food. Be reasonable, what do you expect for that price? You’ve flown a round trip of over 8,000 miles with 7-nights accommodation thrown in? At that price it’s a total steal, to be honest.
As John Hill pointed out, it seems that Franco had negative thoughts before he even arrived on the island. He’d rushed out, bought the holiday and then decided to research it. If he spent a little time on this site, he may quickly have realised that Tobago and/or the RTB were not his sort of destination. Fine, but accept that it is YOUR mistake.
In typical Italian fashion (hee, hee!
), Franco has rather exaggerated a few points, so for the benefit of future readers doing PROPER research before booking a holiday at the RTB (or on Tobago), may I please just comment on the following:- 1) The only ‘industry’ in Tobago outside tourism is fishing. Many of the beaches are working fishing beaches. Yes, there will be some litter and clutter of fishing boats and other related bits and pieces and yes, after the catch has been brought in there will be deaf fish and other fish-related debris around. The tide, gulls and other birds soon clear this, but if you want a perfectly manicured beach, then stick to resorts like the Coco Reef.
2) Yes, ear infections are common at the RTB. And at every other hotel in Tobago. And at every other seaside holiday destination in the Caribbean and the rest of the world. Our ears are not used to constant repeated immersion in water and this can cause the canal going down the middle part of the ear to become soggy and damaged. The warm tropical waters are rich in nutrients and teaming with life, so if the ear canal is damaged, bacteria and fungi can create an infection. The problem, often known as 'swimmer's ear', can be easily avoided.
3) Franco assertion that it is 10-minute walk to reception exhibits a little poetic licence. It is probably nearer a 2½-minute walk from the furthest point of the hotel. About the same as at any other hotel of similar size, on Tobago or elsewhere.
4) To say that it costs £25pp for a meal and nearer £50pp for a “good” meal without much booze is just farcical. I don’t know where he tried, but I would put the average price of a two-course meal with a glass of wine at around £15-£18 at Tobago’s best restaurants and up to half that at smaller ‘local’ restaurants.
5) Yes, next to Store Bay the RTB does have the most problem with beach vendors. However, to say that they are usually drunk or drugged does rather put Franco’s report to shame. Yes, there are the odd one or two who make the rounds round the beaches and may be afflicted so, but they are the total exception rather than the rule. As others have said, the vast, vast majority will not pester you if you give a polite “no thanks”. In our experience, the vast, vast majority of these beach vendors are extremely friendly and love nothing more than to have a chat during their long hours on the beach. If you rebuff them in an arrogant or rude way, then don’t be surprised if you get it back. Yes, the lads will exchange banter with the ladies – who are secretly chuffed to bits. Was it a case of hurt Italian macho Franco?
The main purpose of this site is to steer visitors to the best of Tobago and away from the worst. That includes the most basic question of the lot – is Tobago right for me? I never say anywhere is better than another place, because what is “best”. No hotel, restaurant or destination is right for everyone. Just don’t screw up and waste your time and money like poor Franco. Do your research BEFORE you book your holiday.
Steve Wooler
myTobago.info - the definitive Visitor Guide to Tobago
myTobago.info - the definitive Visitor Guide to Tobago
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David Watkins
- Bude Cool Boy
- Posts: 1990
- Joined: Sat Nov 01, 2003 12:12 pm
- Location: Bude Cornwall uk
- Contact:
Well said Steve!To me the whole point of going to Tobago is that it isn't like anywhere else.No rip off tourist shops selling replica luggage,watches,perfume etc,just wonderful folk trying to get on with there daily life by working around us.If you want the Alagarve or Costa Packet stay in Europe!!
David
David