Trinidad & Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago is one of the best cheap Caribbean vacations. The larger of the two, Trinidad, is a hive of diversity and business. Trinidad, a cosmopolitan haven of Creole culture and the origin of both the steel drum and the limbo, is awash in raw materials like gas and oil. Its diversity of culture and, in certain places, astounding wealth, is almost unmatched throughout the Caribbean. Then there is Tobago, a peaceful island. This island to the northeast is abundant in natural beauty and boasts spotless white sand beaches, but it lacks the urban-sophisticated character of its other half.

Although Trinidad has many beaches, Tobago's coastline is more well-known for its variety and beauty. Almost every side of the island is lined with immaculate beaches, which range from packing to desolate, fun to romantic. The primary attraction of Trinidad is its diverse flora and fauna, especially its scarlet ibises, which are blood-orange flamingos that live in the island's jungles. But beginning in late February, the island completely changes as it throws one of the best Carnival celebrations in the entire Caribbean, dousing itself in glitter and turning up the music.

The best months to visit Trinidad and Tobago are January through May since the skies are clear during this time. Even though the islands are outside of the storm belt, there are daily afternoon showers from June to December. In order to compensate for the rainy season, hotels reduce their rates. At least the weather is comfortable all year long. Since there is little humidity and average temperatures often stay in the low 80s.

While some beaches have an entrance fee, others, like Store Bay in Tobago, don't. Try your luck during the late wet season. Hotel and flight costs will drop from September to December in an effort to entice tourists. Just be sure to bring rain gear in case of midday showers. Avoid exchanging money in public. You can exchange currency outside from unscrupulous money changers, but inside the banks, you'll get a far better rate.

Location: in the southernmost island country in the Caribbean

Ranking:

• #3 in Best Cheap Caribbean Vacations
• #9 in Best Cheap Destination Wedding Locations
• #13 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean