Appreciate Your Country
Ok it’s vacation time again, so where are you going this year; Canada, America London, St. Lucia, Barbados or Bahamas? These are often favorite destinations of vacationers but have you ever considered vacationing in your own country?
Ours is a land filled with much unexplored beauty and there are a host of activities in which one can be engaged. For this vacation consider hiking through some of the natural trails of our island and in so doing gain an appreciation for what is ours. Here are some of the more popular trails in Trinidad and Tobago
Paria
The Paria River runs from the mountains of the Northern Range out to the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Hikers frequent the river’s mouth because of its lovely waterfall – just about an hour and a half’s walk from the coastal village of Blanchisseuse, which you can get to by driving along the scenic North Coast Road. Once you get to Paria Beach, you will see Church Rock. At this point, you will know you have arrived and can enjoy the beauty and serenity of the river and surrounding forest.
Salybia and Rio Seco
This trail takes you through winding pathways full of Mora trees that stand tall and stately like sentries guarding your path. It is an enchanting, relaxing walk that takes you to the North Eastern coast of the island.
Your reward for trudging through the forest? A wonderful waterfall and pool called Rio Seco, with deep, emerald green waters that are perfect for swimming and splashing around. You can even venture to dive off the rocks behind the waterfall – the pool is usually deep enough to cushion you.
To get to the start of the trail, you need to drive to Valencia, to a bridge that passes over the Salybia River – make the first left after this bridge and you will soon find a small track to your right – your walk begins! Of course, unless you are used to these trails, it is always a good idea to make your initial hike with a guide because some of the routes can be tricky!
Tobago
Tobago has a few lovely hiking trails – you just have to know where to look! There is a trail along the island’s North Coast that starts at Castara and takes you all the way through to Englishman’s Bay (about a day’s worth of walking) and then on to the sleepy village of Charlotteville. Along the way, you will find wonderfully large bird populations that will be worth the walk!
Argyle Waterfall is also an easy trek that rewards you with a beautiful waterfall to swim in – it is an especially popular hiking location for locals and visitors alike.
In various parts of Tobago, you will find Mother Nature at her finest! The Main Forest Ridge is the oldest reserve in the Western Hemisphere, protected since 1765. Here you’ll find flora and fauna in all their splendour and a seemingly endless number of hiking trails to explore…
Consumers it is our responsibility to maintain a healthy and sustainable environment so even when on nature trips keep this in mind. Appreciate your country, discover its beauty but in so doing, keep it clean.
Remember, the power is yours!
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