BAVINA SOOKDEO

“Tobago boasts a wealth of natural treasures, making it a haven for bird watchers and eco-tourism enthusiasts. With its pristine rain forest – one of the oldest protected areas in the world – and a wide range of activities like scuba diving, snorkelling tours, and visits to top beaches and coral reefs, Tobago offers something for everyone,” Alex Nedd told Newsday.

[caption id="attachment_1026955" align="alignnone" width="683"] Argyle Waterfall in Roxborough is a favourite for locals and tourists. - Jeff K. Mayers[/caption]

Nedd is the man behind the success of the tour business, Waterholics. His passion for the water led him to create this extraordinary venture. Starting as a teenager, working with his brother at a dive centre. His dedication and hard work eventually earned him the rank of padi dive master. After his brother’s departure, he embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with just one jet ski, giving birth to Waterholics, one of the leading tour operator in Tobago offering a wide range of water sports and unique experiences like bonfire cruises to No Man’s Land, and even aerial tours showcasing Tobago’s unspoiled beauty.

[caption id="attachment_1026953" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Visitors enjoy the clear waters of Nylon Pool, on one of the stops of many boat tours. - David Reid[/caption]

And with an ocean-to-table dining experience, Nedd allows visitors to savour freshly-caught fish cooked in local seasonings, while enjoying the scenic views on a private beach deck.

But there are so many other things Tobago has to offer to staycationers. There are opportunities to explore the stunning coastline, visit Little Tobago, marvel at the Argyle Waterfalls, and glass bottom boat tours to the renowned Buccoo Reef, Nylon Pool, and No Man’s Land, to witness underwater beauty of the island.

[caption id="attachment_1026965" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Waterholics founder Alex Nedd. -[/caption]

And for the rest of this week you can enjoy the Tobago Heritage Festival (THF) which began on July 21 and runs until August 1. The festival celebrates the island's rich cultural heritage, this year paying tribute to All Ah We and All Ah Who Ahwe Be.

The festival’s staple events include the beloved Ole Time Wedding, the flavourful Salaka Feast, captivating folk tales and superstitions, the exploration of natural treasures, and the vibrant J'Ouvert festivities. The Rum Shop Lime also makes a return as part of the festival's offerings, reviving the cultural traditions that resonate across the island's various villages.

[caption id="attachment_1026954" align="alignnone" width="1024"] The beloved Ole Time Wedding at Moriah is a staple event of the Tobago Heritage Festival. - David Reid[/caption]

Nedd firmly believes that Tobago’s unspoiled charm can make it a competitive and sought-after tourist destination. He sees Tobago as a lucrative global industry that can contribute significantly to the country’s success and he urges everyone to be ambassadors for their island and showcase its beau