The islands of Trinidad and Tobago are 9 miles off the coast of Venezuela, placing it outside the hurricane belt.
Trinidad is the home of the steel band, and its capital city of Port-of-Spain is a lively spot. Visitors will want to take home some of the Angostura bitters and Old Oak rum produced here.
The pace is more leisurely on Tobago. Its rainforests, coral reefs, and undeveloped beachfront beckon those wanting to see nature in an unspoiled state. These islands are home to more than 430 species of birds including the scarlet ibis and the yellow oriole, and those hoping to sight a rare bird are sure to find one here.