The island nation of Trinidad and Tobago is prosperous, welcoming, beautiful and culturally diverse.

Covering an area of more than 5,000 sq km, the 23 islands that make up the country of Trinidad and Tobago are home to around 1.3 million people.

Located just 11 km off the northeastern coast of Venezuela, Trinidad is a lively and confident island, with busy cities, energetic resorts and some spectacular beaches, including Maracas, Las Cuevas and Grande Riviera.

The tiny island of Tobago is impressively laidback, with a small population and a feel of the past. The rainforests and coral reefs teem with wildlife and a number of charming and relaxing resorts have sprung up in recent years.

Originally settled by Amerindians from South America, Trinidad was sighted in 1498 by Columbus, who christened it La Isla de la Trinidad (Trinity). The islands were colonised by the Spanish and many of their inhabitants taken as slaves to the American colonies.

Trinidad and Tobago came under British control in 1797 and slavery was abolished shortly afterwards. Britain imported workers from Africa, India and elsewhere to settle the islands and a system of indentured work remained until the 20th century.

Granted independence in 1962, the islands now form one of the most prosperous countries in the Caribbean, with tourism, petroleum and natural gas production and processing, forming the main industries.

The country's capital city Port of Spain, located on Trinidad, is home to around 300,000 people and some lovely colonial buildings. The city is focused around bustling Independence Square, while the shopping area of Chaguanas is well worth a visit for everything from local crafts to sophisticated boutiques.

Trinidad also has swamps, tropical forests and hills that can be explored on guided walks and hikes. Nature lovers will be particularly interested in the wide variety of indigenous species, including the ocelot, sea-dwelling manatee and the breathtaking scarlet ibis.

The Asa Wright Nature Center, a former plantation, is now a huge nature reserve in the rainforest that runs tours and trails, while the Caroni Bird Sanctuary in the swamps is home to some fascinating birds and animals.

Other sites of interest include the dramatic Argyle Falls and natural pools, the city of San Fernando in the south of the island, the 18th century Fort King George, the delightful fishing village of Charlotteville on Tobago and minute St Giles Island.

In the evenings Trinidad and Tobago have numerous restaurants and bars catering to tourists, with excellent Caribbean food and fusion cuisine, cocktails and calypso music. Hotels tend to be comfortable, with many catering to business travellers.

English is the official language in Trinidad and Tobago and the islands are home to a diverse population, with a wealth of different traditions, religions and customs celebrated.

The country enjoys warm temperatures all year round, with the period between December and May generally the driest.

The islands have their own airports on both Trinidad and Tobago. Many companies offer direct flights from Europe, with travel companies providing holiday packages to the best resorts.