myTobago – your questions, review and comment about Tobago

Firstly, thank you for a very amusing and informative site. I have been reading the forum regularly most of the year, I went with my family to Turtle Beach last July. Inevitably I fell in love with the island, and in February I’m taking a friend and her young son back with me. We are going to the carnival while we’re there, and were looking for any advice about going with a 3 year old. Where would be the best place to see the carnival and the best day to go, is there a day that is more orientated to children.

Thanks
Helen

Hello Helen,Monday(j'ouvret)starts in the small hours(3am) and goes on for a number of hours.It is VERY messy with paint and mud being thrown quite liberally!!!Tuesday is the day when the mas bands parade.The best places to watch are besides the fountain at the port building or along Wilson St,therei s a small grandstand there.The parades usually start mid afternoon,so take sun block and drink a lot.There will be plenty of vendors selling water,coconut water(very refreshing)and of course booze.It is a great time!!!
David

Helen, I almost hate to suggest this alternative, but if Carnival is an important reason for your trip next year, why not consider going to the Trinidad Carnival in Port of Spain, and then spending time in Tobago afterwards? In Trinidad there is a Kiddies Carnival on the Saturday before the "normal" Carnival Monday and Tuesday, which is exclusively for children. And of course, Trinidad's Carnival Monday and Tuesday is much larger with more and bigger carnival bands. The main concern I would have is whether you would be able to secure accommodations in Trinidad plus flights back to Tobago immediately afterwards at this late stage. A lot of visitors plan on enjoying Carnival in Trinidad first, then go to Tobago to relax.

Thanks David and Clyde
I think we'll try to avoid the mud throwing and go on Tuesday. Don't worry David I'm not going to give anyone a reason to try and wipe me down with aloe vera, and I also intend to drink alot.
Clyde, the carnival is not the only reason for my trip to Tobago, but we did time the holiday to coincide with it. A friend from Tobago took me to Notting Hill Carnival in the summer and I had a brilliant time, so I might suggest we go to Trinidad in 2008. Thanks for your suggestion.

Helen

Re Kiddies Carnival,I beleive there is one in Roxbro' on the Saturday before the main event.
David