On the tiny Caribbean island destination called Tobago there is a little legend - the charming small hotel and restaurant known simply as the Kariwak.

For visitors to the island and the people who live here (called Tobagonians) the Kariwak hotel, its restaurant and staff are as legendary as Robinson Crusoe himself.

In the realm of small hotels of the Caribbean, the Kariwak has carved a distinctive niche with its award winning 2 acre garden bursting with tropical shrubs, foliage and flowering trees filled with bird song, dominated by the thatched roof ajoupa and its teak floor ... the venue for TaiChi, yoga, gentle stretching exercises, Buddhist meditation sessions and similar holistic activities.

Kariwak is an oasis in the middle of the West End. Right near the Crown Point airport, off the beach about three blocks, you would never know it existed if you didn’t make a point to go in. Do make a point to go in, you won’t be disappointed. Whether it’s for a week’s stay or just a marvelous dinner prepared with natural foods enhanced with herbs grown in their own garden, Kariwak deserves a visit when you’re in Tobago.

The grounds are a lush, lovely, tropical profusion of plants enclosing the 10 cabanas that house the 20 tasteful rooms. Large palms provide restful shade around the swimming pool. Kariwak is dedicated to holistic health with yoga, tai-chi, qi gong, morning stretches, and massage all a part of the daily routine. The outdoor Jacuzzi with a delightful waterfall is surrounded by tropical gardens. The rooms are comfortable and cool featuring air-conditioning, tile floors, baths, hardwood furniture and a tropical décor.

The open-air Village Restaurant and bar is well known for its friendly service and healthy menu. A four-course dinner typically includes selections like grilled fish with lime and ginger, green banana and cucumber salad and sweet pepper beef. On Fridays and Saturdays they feature a buffet dinner that is an island favorite and gives guests a chance to try all sorts of local specialties.

Although this quaint village-style hotel isn’t located on the beach, you can certainly get there quickly by walking three blocks to the lively Store Bay beach. A public beach area here has bath facilities, an informal market and food vendors. Several hotels are nearby if you want to try out different restaurants. Rental cars are available at the airport and in town, and taxis are plentiful. Tours and watersports are available through a variety of tour companies, or through one of the neighboring hotels.

Activities can keep you as busy as you want to be. Boating, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, birdwatching, fishing, hiking, tennis, golf, horseback riding, swimming, and relaxing on the beach are just a few ways to spend your leisure time on the tranquil island of Tobago.