The Winning Essay

Kyle Ramdeo
Orange Field Hindu School
11 years



I am Kyle Ramdeo, reporting for C.N.T. from the tropical paradise of Trinidad and Tobago. These are the last in the chain of islands that curves from Florida in the USA to Venezuela in South America. They stand majestically like emerald scattered across blue silk. The multi-cultural mix, the range of flora and fauna or a people so quite spirited are what give these islands their unique beauty.

Folk’s there’s a little bit of everything here if you look hard enough. The scenery will enthral and the culture will intrigue. The eco-tourist will have his cup running over with the rain forest, coral reefs, mountain hiking and rare birds.

Sit back, relax and enjoy this utopia with me. I am now at the Nariva Swamp and here, I have encountered a most interesting and amazing animal. This is the sea-cow or manatee. This animal is endangered because of pressures from poaching. This unusual creature feeds mainly on the water hyacinth and other grasses. Did I whet your appetite for more?

We are now journeying to the western peninsula. The beauty is nothing short of heavenly. Bamboo cathedral and Mt. Catherine are names that seem to crystallize this reality. Exotic birds and animals such as ocelots and howler monkeys exist among the trails of Tucker Valley. This sanctuary is sought by both locals and adventurous tourists. The sounds of the howler monkeys dominate the breathable air, similar to the perennial cock on the farm early in the morning.

Whether you come to bird watch or simply to relax, the Caroni Swamp will provide you with a premier nature experience. Approximately on hundred and ninety- species of birds have been recorded for the Caroni Swamp, including resident and migratory waterfoul and forest species. Herons, Egrets, Landpipers, Yellowleg Ospreys, Pelicans, Scarlet Ibis and a myriad of other birds abound in the area.

You’ll surely be stimulated by the array of dishes produced by Trinbagonians. The way we cool in Trinidad is influenced by our multi-cultural people of Africans, Indian, Chinese and European descent. You can savour the taste of spicy doubles (chick peas) or opt for savoury callaloo with succulent crabs. Chinese food will surely lure you back to our hospitable shores.

Tobago, on the other hand, leaves you with long lasting memories, life there is simple and laid-back. One can enjoy goat racing, snorkeling, scuba-diving and golf. Or, you can lie in your hammock or on the simple, quiet beaches and commune with nature. A visit to Tobago certainly washes away tensions, stresses and cares.

Trinidad and Tobago offers you a once in a lifetime experience. The blend of the old and the new converge to make these two gems a mind blowing experience. This is an invitation to you to explore taste and feel the rhythm of two pulsating islands which will certainly unleash our motto ‘Truth in Travel.’