Nestled just below the St. Benedict Monastery on a hill overlooking the suburbs of Port of Spain, this guesthouse draws a mixed crowd of nature lovers, guesthouse devotees and businessmen looking to get out of the bustle of the city without being too far from it or the airport, which lies only 15 minutes away.
This place claims to be the oldest guesthouse in the English-speaking Caribbean and occupies a somewhat dormlike cream-colored building. Frosted glass with a lavender tint brings a suffused light into the living room and dining room, where guests gather for meals and conversation. A tea garden hosts breakfasts and snacks and is locally popular for afternoon tea. The menu varies but offers selections from the eclectic Trinidadian cuisine, typically in the form of dinner buffets with three courses and seven options.
Sixteen species of hummingbirds come to feeders dangling just off the back terrace, which overlooks the 600 acres of forest. Telescopes, binoculars and field guides are available for guest use, and many will explore the three hours' worth of trails with a hired guide. Wireless Internet access is free throughout the guesthouse. Two tennis courts are available, but they lack lights for night play.
Only seven of the rooms have private baths, and many are furnished with antiques. These rooms offer air-conditioning, as well. The other 11 rooms have only ceiling fans and share common baths and showers divided by gender. There are no phones in the rooms, and the only TV on-site is in the common area. Beds are queens, doubles or two twins. Rates include breakfast, dinner and a welcome rum punch.
This is not a luxury property, but it enjoys a tremendous popularity thanks in no small part to the bird-watching and the pleasant host and his wife. As an alternative to the more remote Asa Wright Nature Center & Lodge, this is a great option in a peaceful natural setting that still keeps guests close to the city and the culture.
