Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine January 2017 | Page 414

What key elements does your country possess that is likely to attract more visitors ? Our broad-based offering of attractions encompass ecological and socio-cultural spheres that have unparalleled international appeal . The magically acoustic musical instrument of the Steel Pan , just to name one item , had its genesis in Trinidad & Tobago . Our destination features specialized niches that position us with a competitive edge . These core niches include festivals and events , eco , birding , and soft adventure , and Business / MICE ( Meetings , Incentives , Conferences , and Exhibitions ) tourism .
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS Trinidad and Tobago offers a variety of immersive cultural experiences thanks to our diverse cultures and history . From Carnival , Tobago Heritage Festival , Christmas , Divali and Hosay , visitors can participate in national celebrations and have an authentic Trinidad and Tobago experience . Our cultural diversity is also expressed in our cuisine , which is influenced by the fusions of African , East Indian , Chinese , Middle Eastern and European heritage .
ECO , BIRDING , AND SOFT ADVENTURE Our biodiversity is virtually unmatched in the Caribbean with a wide variety of flora , wildlife – including 400 species of birds , and terrain , from plains to wetlands and rainforests , replete with sparkling waterfalls , gorges and basins . Additionally , Trinidad is one of the most important leatherback sea turtle nesting sites in the world .
BUSINESS / MICE ( Meetings , Incentives , Conferences , and Exhibitions ). As one of the most developed islands in the English speaking Caribbean , we also have excellent infrastructure and facilities , making us among the most attractive options for the meetings , incentives , conventions and exhibitions niche .
Can they expect the same experience in both Trinidad and its sister island of Tobago or do they offer different experiences ? Two islands , two unique experiences , one amazing destination ! The beauty of the islands is characterized by the excitement offered in Trinidad as opposed to the serenity in Tobago . Trinidad is known as the Caribbean ’ s hub of economic activity , investment , and the Mecca of Carnival ! On the other hand , Tobago , our sister isle and the jewel of the Caribbean epitomizes everything you would expect from a Caribbean island - pristine with palm trees and white sandy beaches - every vacationer ’ s dream . Combined , this twin-island republic offers a vibrant mix of flora and fauna . The eco-diversity of the islands provides adventure lovers with splendid opportunities for bird-watching , turtle watching , hiking , snorkelling and diving . Our islands ’ unique mix of cultures result in lively festivals year-round and a fabulous mix of mouth-watering cuisines .
Trinidad carnival is known as the best in the Caribbean . What is unique about this festival that sets it apart from the rest ? What time of year is it usually held ? Trinidad Carnival has been the catalyst for the development of Carnivals all over the world , but nothing on earth can rival the magnificence of our festival . Massive masquerade bands , spectacular costumes , pulsating music and stamina for partying are all elements that make Trinidad ’ s Carnival the greatest show on earth ! Ours is a Carnival that is not just a spectator event , as are most other international celebrations . Our Carnival is an entire season that caters to locals and visitors , the young and not so young ! Generally , there is something for everyone .
Officially Carnival is the Monday and Tuesday preceding Ash Wednesday but celebrations begin right after Christmas . One may find that Carnival partying starts even before Christmas even though the main celebrations start from “ Boxing Day ,” which is a National Holiday set aside the day after Christmas . Opening with J ’ Ouvert at 4am on Carnival Monday , revellers parade through the streets immersed in paint , grease
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