Trinidad Travel Guide 2023

TRINIDAD

TRINIDAD

Lime and party on the tropical island of Trinidad, whose world-famous Carnival is considered the greatest show on Earth

Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Deane Anderton

Despite being located just 20 miles by sea from Tobago, the sister island of Trinidad is anything but an identical twin.

Geographically, Trinidad is actually closer to Venezuela and exudes an unmistakably South American flair, a distinct departure from the African feel of its Caribbean sibling.

This equally extends from the first Spanish settlers that came to Trinidad in the 16th century, whose influences are reflected to this day in the island’s road signs, architecture, and even the coastal capital city, Port of Spain.

Adorned by the vast green expanse of uptown Queen’s Park Savannah and a host of fabulous fretworked buildings, Port of Spain is your ideal location for food, fun and festivals, located in the northwest of the island.

This savvy metropolitan verve occupies a crucial place in the national psyche as the crucible of the country’s rich cultural life and home of the world-famous Carnival, where

high-energy parties and premier cultural competitions start just after Christmas and run all the way until Ash Wednesday.

From its diverse people and culture to its amazing personality, Trinidad breaks the mould of the typical Caribbean destination and boasts a year-long calendar of cultural events and festivals. Complemented by the island’s effervescent and energetic nightlife, with a multitude of roadside food and drink vendors, bars, nightclubs, lounges and VIP clubs, it’s clear that Trinidadians take entertainment seriously.

Just as lively is the ambiance of trade provided by a visit to the island’s inner-city markets, where an abundance of fresh vegetables, fruit, meat and fish awaits. The unique artisans of Trinidad also invite discovery, including the locally produced haberdashery and handmade jewellery on offer at the San Antonio Green Market, another popular spot nestled in the Santa Cruz Valley.

An island brimming with endless possibility, where will Trinidad take you?

The Atrium at Piarco International Airport

PIarco International Airport

The construction site for a new terminal at ANR Robinson International Airport

Concessionaire stores at Piarco International Airport

Two Islands, Two Airports, One Heart

Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (the Authority) is responsible for the management and operation of the international airports in Trinidad and Tobago – Piarco International Airport (POS) in Trinidad and ANR Robinson International Airport (TAB) in Tobago. Our airports are strategically located in an ideal twoin-one destination for business and pleasure at the most southern end of the Caribbean archipelago. The Authority has embarked on a strategic goal, with an objective of improving airport infrastructure, to ensure operational efficiency, facilitating increased visitor arrivals and attracting new business.

The evolving aviation landscape has brought about the advancement of airports into sophisticated self-contained commercial enterprises. The industry now stands to contribute significantly to the attainment of economic recovery to any community, especially after the worst impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Customer Experience

The mission of the Authority is to remain committed to being customer centric, while stimulating innovation and economic growth in the aviation business. Providing more customer centric facilities and services has now become a major driver of success.

The use of technology is affecting a rapid evolution of the travel experience. The Authority is aligning itself with global aviation trends by adopting intelligent innovations to improve the customer experience at our airports.

Our atrium at POS has been transformed into a multimedia virtual museum with digital screens showcasing images of the rich and colourful cultural heritage of our nation. There are also many exhibitions, indigenous art work and other sense of place features at our airports which showcase the artistry of our people. The Authority is not only delivering an optimum level of safety and security in our operations, but remains intent on ensuring maximum customer satisfaction.

The Solar Park

The Authority is moving quickly toward the realisation of the first commercial scale solar park in Trinidad and Tobago. A 0.5-megawatt solar park is nearing completion on lands north of the main terminal building. Ground-mounted solar photovoltaic panels are being installed over an area of 1.5 hectares, signalling the dawn of a new day for the use of alternative and renewable energy sources locally. The plant is expected to produce a minimum annual generation capacity of 767,034 kilowatts per hour with the potential to avoid approximately 500 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually, with opportunity for expansion.

The European Union funded solar park contributes to numerous climate action objectives for the country, the international aviation industry, and the Authority.

Cargo Hub of the Caribbean

The South Terminal is rich with business possibilities, and the Authority has repurposed the South Terminal to provide facilities for expanded opportunities in cargo, helicopter operations, private aircraft handling and general aviation support.

Growth in the cargo movement capability via facility expansion, storage variety, and 24/7 operations, will take advantage of the projected growth in this sector. Broadened opportunities for import/ export, increased global market access, air traffic growth, improved air transport connectivity and liberalisation of air cargo services are just some of the benefits of an expanded cargo industry. Cementing Trinidad and Tobago’s position as the cargo hub for the Southern

Caribbean invites increased investment, encourages growth of supporting industries and puts us at the cutting edge of trade and development in the region.

The Aviation Training Centre

In 1995, the Authority entered into an agreement with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), to have a regional Aviation Security Training Centre (ASTC) to serve and provide aviation security training within the North American, Caribbean and Central American region. This Aviation Training Centre was the third to be established in the world.

Apart from aviation security training, in 2006 the Authority signed a contract with the Airports Council International (ACI) to become an approved ACI training centre resulting in the establishment of one of ACI’s global training hubs. This alignment with ACI ensured that the training centre provided a wider range of training courses and workshops which now included areas such as training in airport operations, finance, environmental and wildlife management, safety, crisis management and other disciplines.

Best Airport in the Caribbean

The Piarco International Airport has topped the region as the Best Airport in the Caribbean, as declared by the Skytrax 2022 World Airport Awards. In relation to the Global Region - Central America and the Caribbean, the Piarco International Airport has been ranked the Third Best Airport, edged out by Panama’s Tocumen International Airport and Costa Rica’s San Jose International Airport.

The Authority has also recently received recognition by Airports Council International for its efforts at providing enhanced facilitation for passengers at the Piarco and ANR Robinson International Airports who are autistic and differently-abled.

ANR Robinson International Airport

In addition to the improvements that can be achieved at the Piarco International Airport, Tobago will soon be receiving an entirely new terminal building. Plans include a more commercialised structure teeming with business prospects for both local and international investors and enhanced facilities for tourists.

The Authority is currently working diligently to provide the technical support necessary to drive the government’s vision to develop brand, new state of the art terminal facilities at the ANR Robinson International Airport in the very near future.

The Authority’s Future

The Authority continues to adopt and apply best practice methods to sustain the relevance of both the Piarco and ANR Robinson International Airports as international facilities. Being the major ports of entry into the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the Authority prides itself on the fulfilment of its responsibility to represent our destination favourably and positively impact first and last impressions in the minds of our visitors.

The airports on our twin island republic have become destinations in themselves, as the Authority charges towards the accomplishment of its vision “to be the leader of diverse and innovative aviation driven business in the region.”

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS TRINIDAD TRAVEL GUIDE

Responsible travel and sustainability are crucial to the future of tourism in Trinidad according to the CEO of Tourism Trinidad Limited, Carla Cupid, who is optimistic about the development of the sector in 2023.

Outlook Travel (OT): Can you talk me through the origins of Tourism Trinidad Limited and its initial vision?

Carla Cupid, CEO (CC): Tourism

Trinidad Limited was established in June 2017 as a state enterprise under the then Ministry of Tourism. The mandate of the organisation is to develop and market Trinidad’s tourism offerings and promote Destination Trinidad. We are in the business of attracting tourism investment into Trinidad. We do all of this while promoting education, awareness, and co-operation in advancing the expansion of our economy through tourism.

OT: What are the current travel and tourism trends in Trinidad, and how are you utilising them?

CC: Our natural beauty has already

received high commendation from National Geographic as a family destination, inspiring journeys for all ages.

Our foodie culture has also been reviewed gastronomically by popular food blogger Mark Weins, and the videos from his trip have each received over one million views. Our strategy is to showcase, reach out and welcome, so we have a very active social media presence and have been on very successful trips to sell the brand overseas. Our first trip for 2023 was to the Netherlands, at Vakantiebeurs, where we took

the message of visit Trinidad to the diaspora and European market.

We ensured that tour operators got a chance to see that our tagline of Trinidad, Always in Season, was not a myth and that we are accessible and aware of where the new markets are. This, coupled with KLM increasing its airlift to Trinidad, has been received positively.

OT: How do you market Trinidad’s tourism experiences and continue to position the island as a premier tourism destination?

CC: We have taken a number of steps in this regard.

We constantly highlight our unique experiences and showcase Trinidad’s unique cultural, natural and adventure experiences to attract travellers. We also build partnerships with travel agencies, hotels and airlines to promote Trinidad as a destination.

In this era, we utilise a lot of digital marketing platforms like social media, travel websites, and influencer marketing to reach a wider audience and drive bookings. We also do a lot of destination branding to create a

strong and consistent brand image for Trinidad to increase recognition and attract repeat visitors.

On the back end through our Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts and other government ministries and agencies, we look at improving infrastructure such as transportation, accommodations, and attractions to enhance the overall experience for visitors.

Finally, we host events, cultural and sporting, to attract visitors and generate media coverage. This also lends to our sustainable tourism practices to preserve our unique natural and cultural heritage.

OT: What differentiates Trinidad as a tourist destination from other Caribbean islands?

CC: Trinidad offers much more than sun, sand, and sea. Our appeal covers a wider range of activities that can appease any feeling of wanderlust. We have festivals of food and grog, tours of some of the world most unique eco-sites, and a wider range of nightlife and other entertainment opportunities than most Caribbean

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

FOR A WELCOME ARRIVAL BY AIR…

Serving the island of Trinidad, visitors will arrive by air at the award-winning Piarco International Airport (POS), managed and operated by the Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (AATT).

POS is alive with activity, as one of the busiest and largest airports in the Caribbean and the primary hub and operating base for the region’s largest airline, Caribbean Airlines. Disembark and savour local flavours at the airport’s café, bars and restaurants, relax in resplendent VIP lounges, or shop everything from local crafts to exclusive liquors.

As AATT continues to encourage an increasing number of new and existing airlines and routes to the island, escaping to the tropical isle of Trinidad is easier than ever.

islands. Our island overflows with culture.

OT: What is it that makes Trinidad the hub for entertainment, environment, business and other tourism activities?

CC: As the inventor of the steel pan and limbo, we are culturally connected to and responsible for some of the

newest forms of entertainment in this century. We are the home of calypso and soca, making us a musical and rhythmic people who cannot get enough of creativity.

OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Trinidad?

CC: We are world renowned when it comes to our rich culture, history,

Hyatt Regency Trinidad is an ultra-luxurious, impressive high-rise hotel situated along the dazzling waterfront of Trinidad and Tobago’s capital city, Port of Spain. It is proudly known as the only waterfront hotel in Trinidad. Appealing to a vast range of visitors, the hotel regularly caters to business travellers, weekend getaways, groups on weekend retreats, as well as offering the ability to host special occasions and celebrations, corporate meetings, assorted events and even weddings.

With easy access to restaurants and shopping malls, Hyatt Regency Trinidad has redefined the business hotel experience in the island. Offering the most impressive function space in the market and scenic, outdoor terrace dining, the hotel also provides an urban retreat with beautiful views of the Gulf of Paria and stunning sunsets. This is your place to meet, celebrate or relax, minutes away from the cultural activities at the Queen’s Park Savannah and the lively entertainment district of Ariapita Avenue. With enviably smart furnishings, a bright and airy, spacious decor, redesigned social spaces for relaxing in, as well as tailored event spaces, this magnificent facility offers guests an unsurpassed level of comfort, luxury and convenience that can seamlessly adapt to any of their changing needs at a moment’s notice.

As a highly flexible facility, Hyatt Regency now also possesses the largest hotel conference space in the market for corporate and private professional events.

The hotel now boasts a comprehensive selection of 422 rooms which includes 15 suites, all of which feature the delights of a sea view or impressive city view to marvel at. Top room amenities include air conditioning, access to our Regency Club facility, a flat screen TV, and blackout curtains.

Guests can now enjoy sipping a chilled-out drink in the luxurious comfort of the lobby terrace, or elsewhere can enjoy nightly live entertainment for a more raucous party atmosphere, all the while savouring delicious cuisine at the renowned Waterfront restaurant. This arrives alongside a trendy dining option where guests can take full advantage of a sushi bar and 24-hour Cinnamon Cafe.

At the Hyatt Regency Trinidad, even a routine business trip can be transformed into a stunning vacation as visitors can rejuvenate thoroughly in the exquisite spa located on the third floor, or sip one of the hotel’s signature range of cocktails in the

tranquillity of the awe-inspiring rooftop infinity pool, overlooking the panoramic views of the Gulf of Paria. Guests can recuperate and luxuriate in comfort within the spa, now with six suites across 9,000 square feet of luxury relaxation facilities.

Serving such a diverse array of visitors, Hyatt Regency has now become the first choice to celebrate special occasions and forms the ideal location for creating meaningful connections and sharing memorable experiences.

The highly accommodating staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Filipino.

Guided by its purpose of care and experience delivering world-class hospitality for more than 60 years, Hyatt’s Global Care and Cleanliness Commitment builds on its existing rigorous safety and cleanliness protocols to ensure that the hotel is kept to the highest standards of hygiene for all guests and retains an immense and immaculate aesthetic beauty.

Hyatt’s Global Care and Cleanliness Commitment is an important expression of its purpose to care for people so they can be their best, and Hyatt hotels worldwide continue to take precautionary measures in an

effort to give their guests, customers, and colleagues a sincere sense of peace of mind.

Upon consulting Hyatt Regency’s concierge, you can learn all about guided tours, day trips, and hotel activities that are on offer throughout your stay. Guests can visit historical sites or Port of Spain’s pan yards, where steel pan drums were born and Calypso and soca bands practice.

Another key local attraction arrives as each year, a natural phenomenon of majesty and mystery emerges from the deep. The breath-taking Leatherback turtle make their nesting journey to the north and northeastern coasts of Trinidad from March to August. This epic annual quest lasts from 40 to 60 minutes after which the turtle returns once more to the crystal-clear waters. This is a spectacle not to be missed whilst staying at the Hyatt.

Elsewhere, witness Trinidad’s natural beauty and biodiversity in its beaches, marshlands, rainforests, and cultural diversity and cuisine. The hotel is also situated in close proximity to the site of the Trinidad carnival which guests can enjoy; in addition, there are many local festivals during the year. There’s truly something for everyone.

The well-developed Northwest Peninsula lies a short drive from Port of Spain, with scenic beaches framed by green mountains. Enjoy all manner of sports, including kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, hiking, and golf, or visit a nearby offshore island. Visitors can also take a short flight to our sister isle Tobago.

TOURISM TRINIDAD LTD

and beautiful landscapes. I would tell any would-be visitor to experience our: Carnival – one of the largest and most vibrant street festivals in the world.

Beaches – well known not just for clear waters and amazing views but also for their food offerings.

Food – a diverse array of cuisine, influenced by our history as a melting pot of African, Indian, Chinese, and European cultures.

Wildlife – we are home to unique species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, as well as lush forests and wetlands. Trinidad is also one of the largest natural hatcheries for the Leatherback Turtle.

History – rich in colonial architecture, forts, and cultural heritage sites, including a UNESCO World Heritage site at Port of Spain’s Botanic Gardens.

Overall, we offer a unique blend of cultural, natural, and historical experiences, making it a must-visit destination for those looking for an exotic and memorable vacation.

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

FOR AN AUTHENTIC AIRLINE EXPERIENCE…

Feel the warmth of Trinidad both on and off the aircraft with Caribbean Airlines

With an unrivalled network connecting the entire region, fly in style with the flag carrier of Trinidad and Tobago for excellent customer service with a unique Caribbean touch, giving you a taste of what’s to come.

OT: What are some of the country’s most overlooked or underrated attractions?

CC: Trinidad has many underrated attractions that are often overlooked by tourists. These are some of Trinidad’s hidden gems that offer unique experiences and a glimpse into the country’s rich culture and natural beauty:

• Tamana Bat Caves

• Turtle watching

• The Pitch Lake – the largest natural deposit of asphalt in the world, located in La Brea.

• Asa Wright Nature Centre – a former coffee and cocoa plantation, now a bird-watching paradise, located in the Northern Range.

• Fort George and St. James Barracks – a former military facility in Port of Spain, now a museum and cultural centre.

• The Guanapo Cave and the Aripo Caves – a series of caves and sinkholes with unique rock formations and crystal clear waters.

• The Caroni Bird Sanctuary – a mangrove swamp where thousands of scarlet ibis return to roost every night.

• The Temple in the Sea – a Hindu temple located in Waterloo, built entirely on stilts in the Gulf of Paria.

• The Chagaramas Bay – a serene and peaceful bay with several small islands and an area popular for water sports.

• The Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust – a wildlife sanctuary and botanical garden dedicated to the conservation of wetland birds and other wildlife.

OT: Tell us why responsible travel and sustainability are the future of tourism in Trinidad?

CC: There are several reasons why this is crucial to the future of tourism in Trinidad:

Environmental protection – We are known for our rich biodiversity, including its rainforests, mangroves, and a wide range of unique animals. By encouraging and training our stakeholders in responsible travel practices we help reduce the impact of tourism on the environment and preserve these unique ecosystems for future generations.

Mayaro Beach

PHOTO BY MELISSA.S AT ENGLISH WIKIPEDIA, CC BY-SA 4.0

TOURISM TRINIDAD LTD INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Economic benefits – Sustainable tourism also provides long-term benefits for local communities by creating jobs and promoting the development of local businesses. Our Paramin area is a great example of this, where we have developed its already rich heritage into a viable and sustainable tourist product. This can help reduce poverty and improve the standard of living for residents.

Cultural preservation

–

Responsible travel also helps preserve the unique cultural heritage of Trinidad, including our music, food, and traditions. Our cultural identity is important to us and while we have adopted the callaloo concept of all the cultures coalescing into a melting pot of uniqueness we value the individual flavours that add to this product. Through our Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts, we strive to maintain the cultural identity of Trinidadians and provide

an authentic travel experience for visitors.

Responsible resource use –Sustainable tourism will help to conserve the natural resources of our country, including water, energy, and wildlife. This ensures that these resources will be available for future generations and reduces the impact of tourism on the environment. So, our tour guides ensure that they create a small footprint while giving visitors the benefit of our various sites.

Social benefits – Responsible travel helps promote cultural understanding and respect between visitors and local communities. We always encourage tourists to interact with locals and really experience Trinidad outside of the glass box. We encourage immersion and this can help foster positive relationships. Responsible travel and sustainability are crucial for the longterm health and success of tourism in Trinidad. They help preserve the environment, support local communities, and provide an authentic travel experience for visitors.

OT: Are you optimistic about the development of Trinidad’s tourism sector in 2023?

CC: Very optimistic. The development of the sector in 2023 will depend on a variety of factors, the major ones being consumer confidence and interest in what we have to offer. We are building our brand outside and beyond Carnival and religious festivals, both of which are big ticket items. However, there exists a slow period in between, where we are now putting in place festivals of food, music and other activities to generate interest and visits.

Added to this, our country is known for its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and vibrant Carnival, which attracts thousands of tourists every year. With continued efforts to develop new attractions and improve tourism infrastructure, Trinidad is expected to continue to be a popular destination for tourists in 2023.

Trinidad is the new kid on the block so there is a lot of curiosity surrounding what we have to offer. Curiosity creates awareness and we are using that heightened awareness to tell people to visit Trinidad.

San Fernando Hill

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

DO:

FOR A SHOWCASE OF NATURE AND CULTURE…

The sustainable, immersive and authentic experiences designed and implemented by HADCO Limited demonstrate the beauty of nature and cultural diversity in Trinidad and Tobago. These bespoke vacation packages satisfy your desire to explore tropical flora and fauna, connect with local communities, and preserve wildlife ecosystems. Discover regenerative travel at its best!

FOR NUMISMATIC EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT…

The Central Bank Museum showcases the numismatic history of Trinidad and Tobago, as well as the history and development of the Central Bank.

FOR LIFE-CHANGING TOURS OF TRINIDAD…

Banwari Experiences

FOR MORE THAN JUST CRUISING…

Carvalho’s Cruise Services Ltd

FOR BREATHTAKING BIRDLIFE…

Nanan’s Caroni Bird Sanctuary Tour

SLEEP:

FOR CONTEMPORARY HOSPITALITY…

Waterfront leisure meets Caribbean hospitality at Hyatt Regency. Experience the lively downtown in Port of Spain when you check into this contemporary waterfront hotel, which is situated just 40 minutes from Piarco International Airport. With sophisticated open-air dining, sweeping views of the Gulf of Paria, and authentic Caribbean hospitality for business travellers and vacationers, Hyatt Regency makes your Trinidad booking choice easy.

Chic hotel rooms await your retreat from the hotel’s infinity pool, relaxing spa and blood-pumping fitness centre, all stylishly finished with white oak floors, sleek furniture, and views of the gulf, city, or the Northern Range.

FOR

REFINED COMFORT, REST AND RELAXATION…

In the heart of Trinidad’s south, Cara Suites Hotel and Conference Centre offers panoramic views and rustic settings, whether you’re there for business, sports or vacation.

FOR THE ONLY PLACE LIKE HOME…

Inna Citi Place

FOR AN ECO- AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY STAY…

Acajou Hotel

FOR CARIBBEAN ELEGANCE AND CHARM…

The BRIX Autograph Collection

Accommodations

Wi-Fi, in-room safes, in-room tea station, TV and air conditioning are just a few of the amenities in each of our guest rooms. Breakfast is also included in your stay. Group rates are available upon request.

Charming and intimate, this restaurant is ideal for any celebratory affair or casual dining. International dishes infused with a Caribbean flair to tantalise your tastebuds are our promise to all guests.

Meetings & Special Events

“One-Stop Shop” facilities for groups of four to 400 persons are available. Allow one of our experienced Event Executives to assist you with the planning of your next successful corporate or social event.

Southern Main Road | Pointe-a-Pierre | Claxton Bay | Trinidad

1 868 659 2271 • info.pap@carahotels.com • www.carahotels.com

BayView Bar

Our lobby bar, overlooking the outdoor pool with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Paria, is the perfect setting to end any day. Exotic cocktails, stunning sunsets and our southern charm awaits you!

The Central Bank Auditorium and the Central Bank Museum are your gateways to the arts in the capital city of Port of Spain.

Located in the Central Bank tower on Independence Square, these two cultural hubs are a major part of the Bank’s outreach initiatives, and demonstrate a longstanding commitment to local culture. The Auditorium, with its state-of-the-art facilities, is a top choice for performing artists to showcase local content in an intimate setting. The modern design of the Museum enhances the interactive displays of the history of money and our currency. The Museum also hosts exhibitions featuring local artists, including those in the Bank’s outstanding fine art collection.

Learn more

TV and the amenities in also included available upon

Zest Bistro

PORT OF SPAIN

THERE IS A dynamic, sophisticated and markedly different feel to Port of Spain compared to the rest of the island.

The capital’s compact centre is a dramatic juxtaposition of the old and new, where traditional street traders

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS FOR GETTING TO YOUR DESTINATION……

Taxis are available 24 hours a day at POS courtesy of the Piarco Airport Taxi Cooperative Society Ltd to help you get from the airport to your destination.

contend with international chains in sleek new shopping centres and glinting high-rises overlook colonial-era squares. Such lavish developments have been springing up all over the city over the last 20 or so years.

Amidst this mishmash of architectural styles stand several fine 19th century buildings, from dignified churches to picturesque gingerbread houses so-called for their decorative wooden fretwork.

Affording this built-up city some much-needed breathing room is the Queen’s Park Savannah, a large open space and a great place to take a gentle walk and admire Port of Spain’s prettier side. Dotted with fresh coconut vendors, it marks the divide between downtown Port of Spain, the city’s oldest district, and the more upmarket surrounds of the upper reaches.

As the hub and original home of

Trinidad’s famous Carnival, revellers parade and masqueraders flood the streets of Port of Spain in bold, colourful and vibrant costumes to the exhilarating sounds of soca, steel-pan and calypso music. Known as the “Greatest Show on Earth”, the run-up to Carnival is comfortably the busiest time of year in Port of Spain, so booking accommodation well in advance is essential if you intend to stay anywhere in the city during the festivities.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

RESERVING A RENTAL vehicle is advisable before arriving in Trinidad, particularly during the busy Christmas and Carnival seasons. Alternatively, there are private taxis and commercial buses to get you around the island by road.

Daily flights between Trinidad and Tobago are offered by Caribbean Airlines with an approximate flight time of just 24 minutes, complemented by an inter-island ferry service popular with vacationers and people travelling between the two islands.

An increasing number of luxurious cruise ships have also added Trinidad to their itineraries, and now call at Port of Spain.

Maracas Bay

Ferry boat transporting passengers sailing at sunrise in Trinidad and Tobago

Port of Spain

Queen’s Royal College, Trinidad’s most prestigious school, Port of Spain