Increasingly known for its eco-tourism offerings, the island of Tobago is a pristine gem with beautiful beaches and amazing biodiversity. Tobago and its larger sister island, Trinidad, are the southernmost islands in the Caribbean, outside of the hurricane belt and just seven miles off the shores of Venezuela. A vacation in Tobago offers the opportunity to experience nature at its finest.

Just 116 square miles, Tobago is home to more than 200 bird species—one of the highest densities of bird species in the world. The lush island also boasts 6,000 species of plants and animals. A Tobago vacation package should include a visit to the island’s rainforest, the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere. Watersports are another top draw during a Tobago vacation, as the island is surrounded by colorful reefs that will enchant divers and snorkelers. Tobago is also known for its fishing; the island hosts the International Game Fishing Tournament every year from February through April. Tobago vacation packages often include a round of golf at one of the island’s two 18-hole championship courses.

U.S. travelers to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago require a passport valid for at least three months longer than their intended stay, and a return ticket. Delta Air Lines offers a weekly nonstop flight from Atlanta to Tobago. Many direct flights from the U.S. to Trinidad are also available. Travelers would then either take a 20-minute flight on the “air bridge” or take a ferry to Tobago. Car rentals are available with a valid U.S. driver’s license. Driving is on the left. Tobago’s average daytime temperature is about 82°F. January to May is the dry season, while rainy season is June to December (even in rainy season, mornings are usually sunny). English is the official language. Currency is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar, although U.S. dollars are widely accepted. For more information on a vacation in Tobago, log on to www.gotrinidadandtobago.com, the tourist board’s website.