Guest Report

[John Ker]

Alibaba's is located in an unbelievably picturesque village in a bay at the base of very steep rainforest hills which my wife compares to the scenery in the movie 'Jurassic Park'. Enough said . The setting is georgous.
We stayed in late November and early December. The weather was quite warm when we arrived but became easier for us from the north as time went on. We acclimatised and it became less humid.
Our trip with Brian from the airport was exciting. The roads run along cirques and what is a 15 K by the crow trip takes around 40 minutes but very scenic. The village of Castara is at the base of a big incline where the beach was originally a landing place before decent roads. Because of the trade winds blowing by, there is big surf so no docks. The Castarans are excellant surf boatmen and the fisherman have to bring most things in by carrying them through the surf. We witnessed them unloading tuna through the surf one day which we had for dinner that night. Inexpensive and delicious!
We suppose you want to know about Ali Baba's. All great. To complain about the surf waking you up at night is something, isn't it? We live in an area of great natural beauty but this is more than the tropical equivalent. Your balcony is right above the beach (10 metres). From the balcony we noted 22 birds of the 41 birds that are listed in the Tobago guide. Down at the beach, if you are slow, two minutes away, the surf may be a little daunting. Once through the surf, the snorkelling begins maybe 100 feet out . If the surf is high it will be a little cloudy and you will have to go further out. We saw all the basic reef fish that one usually sees as well as turtles and a moray eel.GO TO BUCOO REEF WITH ALI BABA (BRIAN) I am using up too much space but this trip is a social history lesson as well as visiting the reef (some of the best snorkelling I've done in the Caribbean). Great hosts, good food, good beer and punch! I could go on forever.
Brian and Steph were wonderful hosts. We felt welcomed while enjoying our privacy. The kitchen was well equipped and there was lots of hot water which certain people need. At our time of year, you will appreciate the overhead fans. It is a must to go on the rain forest tour through Brian. Our guide was so informative and showed an obvious love and respect for the forest. When we go back, I'm taking another hike up there to find out more of the history of the area.
In conclusion, this is not an all inclusive type setting BUT, if you have the smallest adventurous bone in your body, you will enjoy the hospitality of your hosts and the Castarans. Have an ice cold Carib at Rev Codrington Wallace's bar at the top of the hill. My wife, yes, she's the one, got to dance with Santa at the outdoor Christmas pageant. Get involved when you can in the community activities. What fun ! Great holiday ! Did I mention the outdoor clay oven bakery and the local music (exciting) !