Best staycation activities

BAVINA SOOKDEO

Although travel restrictions have been lifted, there remains a growing appreciation for the beauty of our homeland. Staycations in Trinidad and Tobago have become a popular choice for locals seeking an exciting escape without leaving the country. To make the most of a staycation, Newsday spoke with Melissa Ramnarine, an experienced tour guide of Palance868 Adventures Ltd, who shared a list of activities to make your staycation memorable.

The rise of staycations

When asked about the rise in staycations’ popularity, Ramnarine emphasised that the pandemic had a profound impact on travel preferences. “Most definitely! I think the pandemic has definitely caused people to look locally for things to do, and only then did they realise how beautiful and diverse TT is. Some of the experiences they would usually think they had to fly out to experience can actually be found right here at home.”

Hiking adventures for all

For those eager to explore nature’s wonders, Ramnarine said there are a number of beginner-friendly and family-friendly hiking options. These hikes offer stunning landscapes and refreshing waterfalls to cool off after your adventures.

Tours to take

Ramnarine is always up for an adventure and she takes her hikers on an array of exciting tours that showcase the beauty and cultural heritage of TT. Here are some top picks:

Misty Blue Mountain – The Paramin Experience: Embark on a four-six hour tour of Paramin, including scenic views, local attractions, and sampling traditional foods like pot bake and cocoa tea.

Signature North Coast Road Trip Tour: Explore secluded beaches, rivers, and forts on an eight-ten hour road trip with a delicious bake and shark lunch.

Out and About in South: Immerse yourself in the culture of south Trinidad, visiting landmarks like the Sundar Popo statue, Digity Mud Volcano, and more, with an authentic chulha lunch.

Cocoa in de Sun!!! – The Tamana Experience: Experience the Tamana Estate's rich history, cocoa-making process, and sample delightful cocoa-based treats.

A Scarlet Sunrise Affair – Caroni Bird Sanctuary: Witness the majestic scarlet ibises taking flight at sunrise in the Caroni Bird Sanctuary.

Explore unique destinations

Apart from the tours, there are unique sites and historical places to rediscover:

Gasparee Caves and Monas Island adventure: Visit the natural limestone caverns of Gasparee Caves and relax on Monas Island's beautiful Biscayne Bay.

Meet me in Moruga – A date with royalty: Enjoy an authentic cocoa dancing experience, indulge in local cocoa treats, and visit heritage statues and beaches in Moruga.

Experience Nelson Island and Biscayne Bay Tour: Discover the rich history of Nelson Island and end the day with a relaxing evening on Biscayne Bay.

Cultural and heritage tours

For history lovers and culture enthusiasts, an array of heritage tours is available. They take you on a journey through TT’s diverse past:

Historic Moruga: Explore historic landmarks in Moruga, including the Punta de la Playa, bailey bridge, and the Christopher Columbus monument.

Fyzabad Heritage Tour: Uncover the rich history of Fyzabad, visiting the Mud House Museum, Charlie King Junction, and the La Brea Charles monument.

With the guidance of guides such as Ramnarine, a staycation is sure to be filled with adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you choose to hike to stunning waterfalls, immerse yourself in local heritage, or venture to unique destinations, TT has so much to offer. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and explore the wonders of your beautiful homeland!