Pigeon Point: The Jewel of Tobago

• HelloWah Gwaan
  [Wah Gwaan]
• GoodbyeLater
  [Later]
• YesYes
  [Yes]
• NoNah
  [Nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/Tank yuh
  [Please/Tank yuh]
• Thank youTank yuh
  [Tank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorrySorri
  [Sorri]
• How are you?How yuh doin?
  [How yuh doin]
• Fine. And you?Ahright. An you?
  [Ahright. An you?]
• Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [Yuh speak English?]
• I don't understandAh doh understan
  [Ah doh understan]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLemme see de menu, please
  [Lemme see de menu, please]
• I don't eat meatAh doh eat meat
  [Ah doh eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAh would like to pay, please
  [Ah would like to pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Go way!
  [Go way!]
• Call the Police!Call de Police!
  [Call de Police!]
• Call a doctor!Call ah doctor!
  [Call ah doctor!]
• I'm lostAh lost
  [Ah lost]
• I'm illAh sick
  [Ah sick]

• I'd like to buy...Ah wud like tuh buy...
  [Ah wud like tuh buy...]
• I'm just lookingAh jus lookin
  [Ah jus lookin]
• How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much is it?]
• That's too expensiveDat too pricey
  [Dat too pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Yuh cud lower de price?
  [Yuh cud lower de price?]

• What time is it?Wha time it is?
  [Wha time it is?]
• It's one o'clockIs one o'clock
  [Is one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [Half ten]
• MorningMornin
  [Mornin]
• AfternoonEvenin
  [Evenin]
• EveningEvenin
  [Evenin]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
• 1One
  [One]
• 2Two
  [Two]
• 3Tree
  [Tree]
• 4Four
  [Four]
• 5Five
  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Whea de...
  [Whea de...]
• What's the address?Wha de address dey?
  [Wha de address dey?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh cud show me (on de map)?
  [Yuh cud show me (on de map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When de nex (bus) comin?
  [When de nex (bus) comin?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ah ticket (tu ...)
  [Ah ticket (tu ...)]

Before the arrival of European colonizers, the area now known as Pigeon Point was inhabited by the indigenous Arawak and Carib peoples. These early inhabitants lived off the land and sea, engaging in fishing, hunting, and small-scale agriculture. Evidence of their presence can be found in the form of ancient artifacts and petroglyphs scattered around the region.

The arrival of European explorers in the 15th and 16th centuries marked the beginning of a new era for Pigeon Point. Spanish, Dutch, and eventually British colonizers took control of the area, bringing with them enslaved Africans to work on sugar plantations. The colonial era saw the transformation of the landscape and the establishment of new economic and social structures.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Pigeon Point and its surrounding areas were dominated by sugar plantations. The labor-intensive nature of sugar cultivation led to the importation of a large number of enslaved Africans. The remnants of this period can still be seen in the form of old plantation buildings and machinery scattered across the landscape.

The abolition of slavery in 1834 marked a significant turning point in the history of Pigeon Point. Freed Africans began to establish their own communities, while the British colonial government looked to India for a new source of labor. Between 1845 and 1917, thousands of Indian indentured laborers were brought to Trinidad and Tobago, contributing to the diverse cultural tapestry of the region.

In the mid-20th century, Pigeon Point began to transform into a popular tourist destination. The picturesque beach, with its white sands and clear blue waters, attracted both local and international visitors. Efforts were made to develop the area with amenities and activities, including the construction of the iconic thatched-roof jetty that has become synonymous with Pigeon Point.

In recent decades, there has been a growing awareness of the need to preserve the natural beauty and ecological health of Pigeon Point. Conservation initiatives have been implemented to protect the marine and coastal environments, including the establishment of the Buccoo Reef Marine Park. These efforts aim to ensure that Pigeon Point remains a sustainable and pristine destination for future generations.

Pigeon Point is not just a natural wonder but also a cultural hub. It hosts various events and festivals that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago. From music festivals featuring calypso and soca to food fairs showcasing local cuisine, Pigeon Point serves as a vibrant center for cultural exchange and community gatherings.

Pigeon Point is located on the southwestern tip of Tobago, one of the two main islands of Trinidad and Tobago. The nearest airport is the A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (TAB) in Crown Point, approximately 15 minutes away by car. Direct flights are available from several international destinations. Alternatively, you can fly into Piarco International Airport (POS) in Trinidad and take a connecting flight or a ferry to Tobago. The ferry ride from Port of Spain to Scarborough, Tobago takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Getting around Pigeon Point and Tobago can be done via taxis, which are readily available and relatively affordable. Car rentals are also a popular option for those looking to explore the island at their own pace. Public buses and maxi taxis (shared minibuses) operate across the island, though they may be less frequent in more remote areas. Bicycles and scooters can be rented for shorter distances and a more intimate experience of the area.

The official currency is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD). Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Pigeon Point and nearby Crown Point. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and vendors. ATMs are available, but it's prudent to withdraw sufficient cash in larger towns to avoid inconvenience.

Pigeon Point is generally a safe destination for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in less populated areas. Crown Point and Scarborough are generally safe, but be vigilant in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuables. Reported crimes against tourists are rare, but it is always wise to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. There is a police station in Crown Point and medical facilities nearby, including the Scarborough General Hospital. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is highly recommended. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications, but keep a basic first-aid kit handy for minor issues.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight and breathable clothing, but dress modestly, especially in local communities. Avoid overly revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting places of worship, dress modestly and remove hats. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Good day' or 'Good afternoon.' Handshakes are common, but always ask before initiating physical contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Pigeon Point like a local, visit the local markets in Scarborough and Crown Point for fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, who are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Don't miss the Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool tours for an unforgettable marine experience. For a unique taste of local culture, attend the weekly Sunday School street party in Buccoo Village, featuring live steelpan music and dancing.