Carnival. Calypso. Callaloo. These three words might be the first that come to mind when you think about Trinidad. But, once you discover the abundant natural areas of this beautiful island you could substitute many other words that equally describe the allure of this special place. http://www.asawright.org/centre/index.html is the destination for birdwatchers from around the world. The center is located in the rainforest of the mountains, the ultimate spot for adding a bird to the list and a perfect place for a quiet respite.

The island consists of several diverse ecosystems ranging from lowland swamps to mountain rainforests. Although the island is only 50 miles long by 37 miles wide, it packs in ample opportunities for the outdoors enthusiast. If mountain biking is your thing, you will find paths throughout the island that explore the deepest parts of the jungle. You'll pass by orchids and emperor butterflies, cross streams and savannahs, and hear the resonating sounds of the birds.

Being an island, Trinidad certainly offers plenty of opportunities to explore on the water. Kayaking and canoeing are very popular activities, both on the sea and through the Nariva Swamp a vast wetland brimming with birds and wildlife. For those who are patient and don't mind staying up into the wee hours of the night, watching for the giant see turtles to come ashore and lay eggs is a unforgettable experience.

Besides the great outdoor opportunities in Trinidad, there are the Trinidadians themselves. Their friendliness and welcoming attitude to visitors makes a visit to the island an experience that you won't likely soon forget. The Trinidadians are a diverse mixture of people and from that blend of ethnicity comes spicy and flavorful cuisine combining bits of many world cuisines. Curry is popular as is a shark and bake sandwich sold from stands. Callaloo is a soup made of taro leaves or dasheen which is also referred to as callaloo. The soup contains coconut milk, garlic, onions and pumpkin.

Music figures prominently into the culture and the steel pan reigns king here. The pans are made from oil drums and Trinidadians take their calypso seriously. Different groups practice throughout the year to prepare for a major competition to select the best band in the land. Music emanates from buildings and panyards are you walk along the streets. Feel free to drop in and listen to the groups. You may be surprised to see a bunch of school children learning to master the instrument.

Extempo calypso is another type of music you might encounter. Usually two guys with a guitar like instrument called the quarto will serenade you. But, these are love songs; but often sarcastic rhyming stories about political events or even about you. Take them in good humor and you will surely enjoy them.

Carnival requires no introduction. It is an everlasting party that starts well before lent. Planning and rehearsing for the events starts in the fall and continues until Carnival "officially" gets underway. Trinidadians love to party and this is the place to party. The costumes are out of this world as is the revelry.

If you are looking for a guided adventure that combines several activities, you won't have a problem finding a guide who knows the island. If you need a qualified guide to show you around the island or arrange an itinerary for you, contact Courtenay Rooks of Paria Springs www.pariasprings.com. He specializes in natural history, birding, hiking and mt. biking.

By the way, after your adventures you can still enjoy Carnival, calypso and callaloo.

To find out more about visiting Trinidad visit: http://www.visittnt.com/

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