Tobago

Tobago is the smaller, quieter sibling of Trinidad - a lush Caribbean island said to be the inspiration for Robinson Crusoe's desert island. The oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere covers the mountainous interior, while postcard-perfect beaches rim the coastline.

Unlike many Caribbean islands, Tobago has retained much of its natural character. Pigeon Point's thatched-roof jetty is iconic, Speyside offers some of the best diving in the Caribbean (the world's largest brain coral is here), and Buccoo Reef's shallow nylon pool lets you stand in waist-deep water a mile from shore. Goat racing replaces horse racing during Easter - uniquely Tobagonian.

January to April is the dry season with sunny weather (26-32°C). Tobago sits south of the hurricane belt, making it safer year-round. The wet season (June-December) has afternoon showers.