Trinidad and Tobago are renowned for being the islands that do not sleep during December. As Christmas makes its way to the tropical islands, its yet another excuse for the locals to get together, sing, dance and lime before heading into the New Year. Like Christmas carol singers, Parang is the music of Trinidad and Tobago during Christmas. Groups of singers complete their rounds from one house to another serenading each other with guitars, steel pans, tambourines, pots and pans, until they are invited in for refreshments. Across the island this month, music is blaring, people are partying, kites are flying, and the flowers are blooming. It makes for one hot Christmas.
As the islands are coming toward the end of the wet season, and families begin to arrive to celebrate Christmas, this is a great month to head to the Plymouth Recreation Ground in Tobago to experience the kaleidoscope of colours painting the sky at the annual kite-flying festival. Perfect for a family day out, this is the prime spot to witness the event Tobago is most proud for.
While the rain eases, most trees come into flower this month, inviting nectar-eating species of wildlife. This is also a peak month for the renowned bird, Scarlet Ibis, and can be spotted in most reserves. Head to the exotic Main Ridge Forest Reserve in Tobago and weave your way through the undulating trees and plants.
Most beaches are full of vibe this month with Christmas on the horizon. No trip is complete without a visit to Las Cuevas Beach, where the locals gather to ‘lime’ and relax. Join in the festivities on the beach, take the family to explore the fringing caves, or simply kick back on the soft sand and soak up the heat.
Trinidad and Tobago see pleasant highs of 30°C during the day and 19°C at night in December. With less rainfall than in previous months, December is a great time to enjoy the Caribbean sea with temperatures of 27°C.
General packing tips for December: