Trinidad & Tobago

Trinidad & Tobago is an island nation in the southern Caribbean, almost a stone’s throw from the shores of Venezuela. There are an additional 21 islands that round out the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago. Lucky for travelers to these islands, Trinidad & Tobago lies outside the hurricane belt but there is still a strong rainy season from June to December. These islands are often overlooked by tourists, as Trinidad boasts a strong industrial economy – they don’t rely on tourist dollars to make a living. Rednecks and soldiers beware, camouflage clothing is actually illegal in Trinidad & Tobago. If you visit, leave that stuff at home.

Language

English is the official language of Trinidad & Tobago.

Money

The Trinidad and Tobago Dollar is the official currency of Trinidad & Tobago, but US Dollars are widely accepted as well. To find out about the conversion rates, visit our currency converter.

Accommodations

Budget accommodations are available on both islands, as are more moderate hotels on up to villa rentals.

Food and Drinks

Local flavors are an adventure on the island, with many interesting dishes available. Street food is there, and can be a great bet. Other ethnic foods like Creole, East Indian and Chinese are represented as well.

Getting There & Around

Getting to Trinidad in no problem, with tons of flights scheduled daily. From the US, you can take American Airlines, Caribbean Airlines, TravelSpan, Delta or Continental from their various hubs. Canadian travelers have the option to fly Caribbean Airlines, Air Canada, Sky Services or Zoom. For travel from Europe, Martin Air, Excel Airways, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer flights from London Gatwick. Island hoppers may use Liat Star, Caribbean Airlines or Surinam Airways, depending on your point of departure. Travelers from South America are well connected with flights from Aeropostal, Avior, Conviasa, Rutaca, Surinam Airways, Caribbean Airlines, Liat Star and TravelSpan.

A departure tax in the amount of TT $100 will be charged to all persons leaving the country.

Buses and “Maxi-Taxis” (mini-buses) are both inexpensive and widely available on the islands. Otherwise, you can rent a car or take a standard taxi. To travel between the islands, flights and ferries are available at various times throughout the day.

Electronics

Electricity in the islands is 110/220 volts, but may hotels offer converters.

Holidays

Carnival is HUGE in Trinidad & Tobago, happening each year in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday.

Muslim festivals of Hosay and Eid-ul-Fitr are celebrated on the islands, as is the Hindu festival of Divali. Other festivals, like Emancipation Day, Shouter Baptist Liberation Day, Taste T&T and Arrival Day are held as well.

Things to Do

All of the usual suspects are available in water sports, including fishing, yachting, kayaking and diving. Beach lovers will be happier visiting Tobago. Sports fan can check out a cricket or soccer (football) game, both popular on the islands. Music is a huge deal here, and travelers should make an effort to hear some of the indigenous sounds like calypso and steelpan. To learn about the culture of the area, ask about the fascinating myths and folklore in the area. If you love wildlife, you can enjoy the many types of animals found on the islands including nesting sea turtles. You can hike the many trails and visit waterfalls and caverns on Trinidad. In Buccoo, Tobago, you can check out the goat and crab racing. Tobago is known as an ecotourism destination.