Trinidad and Tobago Travel Information

Trinidad and Tobago, located off the northern coast of South America, is a twin island country known for its diverse culture and natural beauty. From the vibrant street life in Port of Spain to the stunning beaches in Tobago, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are the top 10 things to do when visiting Trinidad and Tobago:

1. Visit the Asa Wright Nature Centre

Located in the Northern Range of Trinidad, the Asa Wright Nature Centre is a great place to see a variety of birds and other wildlife in a natural setting. Visitors can take guided nature walks, bird-watching tours, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

2. Explore the National Museum and Art Gallery

The National Museum and Art Gallery is located in Port of Spain and offers a great way to learn about the island's history, culture, and art. Visitors can find exhibits on the island's indigenous people, colonial history, and contemporary art.

3. Visit the Maracas Bay

Maracas Bay is one of the most popular beaches on Trinidad, known for its clear blue waters and white sandy beaches. Visitors can also find a variety of food vendors selling traditional Trinidad and Tobago cuisine.

4. Visit the Pigeon Point Heritage Park

Pigeon Point Heritage Park is a beautiful beach located in Tobago. Visitors can enjoy the clear waters, white sandy beach and find rentals for water sports like jet skis, kayaks and more.

5. Go to the Pitch Lake

The Pitch Lake is a natural wonder located in La Brea. It's the largest natural deposit of asphalt in the world, Visitors can take a guided tour of the lake and learn about its unique geology and history.

6. Visit the Fort George

Fort George is a historic fort located in Tobago, that offers a great view of the island and the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can learn about the fort's history and take in the stunning views from the top.

7. Explore the Queen's Park Savannah

The Queen's Park Savannah is a large park located in the heart of Port of Spain, and is known for its lush green grass and beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park, see the Magnificent Seven buildings or enjoy the street vendors selling local food and crafts.

8. Visit the Caroni Swamp

The Caroni Swamp is a protected wetland located on the island of Trinidad. Visitors can take a guided tour of the swamp and see a variety of bird species, including the scarlet ibis, which is Trinidad and Tobago's national bird.

9. Visit the Nylon Pool

The Nylon Pool is a small, shallow pool located off the coast of Tobago. The water is crystal-clear and visitors can enjoy snorkeling or swimming in the warm waters.

10. Explore the local markets

Trinidad and Tobago is known for its vibrant street markets, where visitors can find a wide variety of local products such as spices, crafts, and clothing. Some of the most popular markets include the Ariapita Avenue Street Market and the Gulf City Mall.

Climate

Trinidad and Tobago has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The average high temperature is around 32°C (90°F) and the average low temperature is around 24°C (75°F). The islands experience high humidity and occasional rainfall, but generally have a dry season which runs from January to May.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Trinidad and Tobago is during the dry season, which runs from January to May. The weather is sunny and pleasant during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. Additionally, this is also the peak tourist season, so there are more events and activities happening on the island. Keep in mind that prices for hotels and flights are generally higher during this time.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Trinidad and Tobago offers a wide variety of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Visitors can find hotels in major cities such as Port of Spain and Scarborough, as well as in more remote locations like Maracas Bay. Some popular hotel chains in Trinidad and Tobago include Hyatt, Hilton, and Radisson.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals, such as apartments, villas, and cottages, are also popular options for visitors to Trinidad and Tobago. These rentals offer more privacy and space than traditional hotels, and can be a great option for families or groups of friends traveling together. Vacation rentals can be found in popular tourist destinations such as Pigeon Point and Maracas Bay.

Guesthouses and B&Bs

Guesthouses and B&Bs are a good option for visitors looking for a more intimate and personal experience. These accommodations are often run by local families and offer a unique glimpse into Trinidad and Tobago culture. Guesthouses and B&Bs can be found in several towns and villages across the island.

Camping

Camping is also an option for visitors to Trinidad and Tobago, many areas such as the Pitch Lake, have designated camping spots for visitors, with amenities such as bathrooms, picnic tables and grill, and fire pit. Visitors should be prepared for hot and humid weather, and bring their own camping gear.

Cars and Motorbikes

Renting a car or motorbike is a popular option for visitors to Trinidad and Tobago, as it allows for greater flexibility and freedom to explore the islands. Visitors can rent cars and motorbikes from several rental agencies located at the Piarco International Airport and other locations throughout the islands. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy in major cities such as Port of Spain and Scarborough and that driving is on the left side of the road.

Taxis and Private Transfers

Taxis and private transfers are also widely available in Trinidad and Tobago, and can be found at major airports and tourist destinations. Taxis are generally affordable, but fares can be negotiated and should be agreed upon before starting the trip. Some taxi drivers may also offer tours of the island.

Public Transport

Trinidad and Tobago also has a public transportation system that includes buses, mini-buses, and ferries. Bus and mini-bus service is available in most areas of the island, and bus stops can be found along major roads and in towns and cities. The ferries operate between Trinidad and Tobago and also offer a service to some nearby islands. Public transport can be an affordable option, but the schedules are often unpredictable and the rides can be crowded.

Water Taxi

Water taxis are widely available in Trinidad and Tobago, and can be found at major ports such as the Port of Spain and Scarborough. Water taxis offer a unique way to explore the islands and offer service to nearby islands such as Chacachacare, Monos, and Huevos.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.