The Diver as Birder

Sure you enjoy watching fishes. Why not give birds a try? Tobago is among the best spots for birdwatching in the Western Hemisphere. Bring your binoculars and stroll into the rainforest to view countless species. Mid island is a path through the rainforest, amid 100-foot stands of bamboo, enormous ferns and screeching parrots and chachalacas, Tobago’s national bird. Hire a guide and a boat to visit Little Tobago to view thousands of seabirds.

If you fly to Tobago through Trinidad, consider a stay in Trinidad’s internationally regarded Asa Wright Nature Center, high in the rainforest, an hour cab ride from the Trinidad airport. One awakens to symphonic sounds of birds rising with the sun. Guided walks through the rain forest produce scores of species. Sit on the veranda enjoying an afternoon tea while cornbird and bearded bellbirds keep your eyes and ears busy. Watch tanagers and hummingbirds flit about feeding stations, and see toucans in the trees. Or take a boat trip into mangrove swamps to see the brilliant scarlet ibis and snouts of caimans.

The rates from $90-$130/person/day include homey accommodations in screened cottages, guided tours, and three meals a day. Email: asawright@caligo.com, or call (800) 426-7781 or 914- 273-6333.