Scarborough

Most cruise ships visiting Tobago call at Scarborough's deep-port cruise terminal on the island's southern coast. The terminal dominates the harbour from its town-centre position. While most ships berth at the dock, some anchor off the western tip and tender passengers to Pigeon Point, about 8 mi/13 km from Scarborough, where palm-fringed beaches are within walking distance of several resort hotels.

Scarborough's terminal contains duty-free shops, local crafts and music stores, tour operators and a tourist office. Just outside are a tiny pub and an ice-cream parlor, both good places for refreshments before returning to the ship.

Tobago is the smaller of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago's two main islands. It lies in the southern Caribbean Sea, northeast of Trinidad and southeast of Grenada, outside the hurricane belt.

The island's tourism focuses on the southwest around Crown Point, Store Bay, Pigeon Point and Buccoo Reef. This resort-type area has broad sandy expanses, while many idyllic beaches also line Tobago's coast, notably at Castara, Bloody Bay and Englishman's Bay.

Tobago is a popular diving destination as the Caribbean island furthest south with coral communities.

Scarborough, Tobago's largest town, is on one of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago's two islands. Its population of around 17,000 represents almost one-third of the island's population. Fort King George, an 18th century fortification named for King George III, dominates the town and now contains a historic/archaeological museum.

For the beach, take a cab from the port to Pigeon Point for about 20 -25 USD. Restroom facilities, a bar, food and plenty of shade are available if wanted. Entry costs $18.00 TT. A boat from the beach can take you to the reef to snorkel for $15, though there is no snorkelling from the beach itself. Take towels. At Pigeon Point, glass-bottom boat tours also visit Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool, leaving at 11.30 AM.

If you choose not to join the cruise line's tours, the friendly team at the terminal's Tourism Information Office can recommend enjoyable excursions.

Official taxis carry registration 'H'. Private taxis cost much more but give you freedom to travel where you wish. Although certain routes have fixed rates, settle the fare before starting. $1.00 U.S = $6.30TT, but the tourism industry rounds this to $1,00 = $6.00 flat; always ask a taxi which currency they are quoting.

At the back of the Tobago terminal at the pier, turn right to find a large room with chairs and a waiting area. Many people there pair passengers for cab trips to island locations, and a large board lists prices for each destination.

Typical Tobago excursions:

A popular Southern Tobago scenic drive visits many major sites, including the mysterious tombstone and Store Bay beach. It also stops at several forts, among them Fort James and Fort King George, home to a museum and arts center.

A glass-bottom boat tour of Buccoo Reef Marine Park takes in one of Tobago's spectacular sights. Protected Buccoo Reef is among the island's popular destinations: learn about life in the shallow reef, then snorkel and explore. The trip continues to Nylon Pool, a clear-water shallow sandbank at sea.

Adventure lovers can visit Tobago's magnificent Rain Forest Reserve and Argyle falls, heading beyond resort areas into the wild interior. Hike the lush tropical Main Ridge Forest Reserve, the Western Hemisphere's oldest, or enjoy the natural pool at the foot of the three tiered Argyle Falls.

Car hire is not advisable because roads are narrow and traffic manners are poor.

At bustling Scarborough Market, experience local culture while buying fresh produce, spices and handmade crafts; it is a great place to meet locals and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Trinidad and Tobago uses the Trinidad and Tobago dollar, also called TT (pronounced teetee), though US dollars are widely accepted. Many stores take Visa and Mastercard, while American Express, Diners' Club, Discover, JCB and others are accepted in only a few places.

$1.00 U.S = $6.30TT, although the tourism industry rounds it to $1,00 = $6.00 flat. Ask taxis which currency they are quoting.

ATM (ABM) cards on the Cirrus and Plus networks work in local ATMs, allowing withdrawals in TT dollars converted from your home currency.

Languages: English (official), Hindi, French, Spanish and Chinese.

Shops generally trade Mon-Thurs 0800-1600, Fri 0800-1800 and Sat 0800-1300. Some remain open later in Port of Spain, and malls often trade until 2100. Public holidays close shops, particularly during Carnival.