A Rocky Start, But a Smooth Ride

The day began with a bit of a hiccup. I was staying at a hotel near Piarco Airport, and to my surprise, I was asked to pay an additional fee for the pickup since it wasn’t in Port of Spain. It was a bit of a shock, as there was no mention of this on the booking site. But, as you all know, the unexpected is part of the adventure, right? I had a chat with the tour operator, and while it was a bit frustrating, I decided not to let it dampen my spirits. After all, I was about to embark on a journey to explore some of Trinidad’s most fascinating sites.

Once the initial hiccup was behind me, I met Errol, our guide for the day. His warm smile and easy-going nature quickly put me at ease. Errol was not just a driver; he was a storyteller, a historian, and a friend. His knowledge of Trinidad’s history and culture was impressive, and I knew I was in for a treat.

The Wonders of Pitch Lake

Our first stop was the famous La Brea Pitch Lake. As a former surfer, I’ve always been drawn to the natural wonders of the world, and this was no exception. The lake is a vast expanse of black, sticky pitch, and it’s one of the largest natural asphalt deposits in the world. Errol introduced us to Bobby, a local guide who knew the lake like the back of his hand.

Bobby’s enthusiasm was infectious as he explained the different textures and colors of the pitch and water. He shared stories of the lake’s medicinal properties, which are said to help with joint pain and skin conditions. I couldn’t resist dipping my toes in the warm, mineral-rich pools. It was a surreal experience, standing on a lake that has been used for road paving around the world.

Temples and Hills: A Spiritual and Scenic Journey

After the wonders of Pitch Lake, we headed to the Temple in the Sea and the Dattatreya Temple with its towering Hanuman Murti. While the temples were closed, the serene surroundings and the stories shared by Errol made the visit worthwhile. The Temple in the Sea, built by a single man, is a testament to faith and perseverance.

Our final stop was San Fernando Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the Gulf of Paria. The view was breathtaking, and on a clear day, you could even see as far as Venezuela. Standing there, with the wind in my hair and the sun on my face, I felt a deep connection to the island. It was a reminder of why I love the Caribbean so much – the beauty, the culture, and the people.

Despite the rocky start, the tour turned out to be a memorable adventure. Errol’s charm and knowledge made all the difference, and I left with a newfound appreciation for Trinidad’s rich history and natural beauty. If you’re ever in Trinidad, I highly recommend checking out the Down South Tour for a day of exploration and discovery.