Welcome to Trinidad and Tobago 😊

Quick Facts About Trinidad and Tobago

Money and Finances

The currency in Trinidad and Tobago is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TTD). Coins come in denominations of 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents and 50 cents while notes come in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in Trinidad and Tobago, particularly in major towns and cities. However, it is advisable to carry cash as some smaller towns and villages may not have ATM facilities.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Trinidad and Tobago, particularly in larger establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most places, although American Express is not as commonly accepted.

Internet and Phones

The average internet speed in Trinidad and Tobago is around 12 Mbps for downloads and 2 Mbps for uploads. There are no major government interferences in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The two major telco companies in Trinidad and Tobago are Digicel and bMobile. The average cost of a mobile phone plan in Trinidad and Tobago is around $25 USD per month. There are no known sim compatibility issues.

Dialling to Trinidad and Tobago

To call Trinidad and Tobago from another country, dial +1-868 followed by the local number. When dialling within the country, use the local area code of three digits.

Transport Around Trinidad and Tobago

Air Travel

Trinidad and Tobago has two major airports: Piarco International Airport located in the capital city of Port of Spain, and Arthur Napoleon Raymond Robinson International Airport located on the island of Tobago.

Train Travel

There is no inter-city train network in Trinidad and Tobago. Transportation between cities is mainly done via buses and taxis. For example, a taxi from Port of Spain to San Fernando would cost around $100 USD and take approximately 1.5 hours.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no local train system in Trinidad and Tobago.

Buses

There are several bus companies that operate in Trinidad and Tobago, with fares starting at around $1.50 USD per person. Travel times vary depending on the destination, with some routes taking up to 4 hours. The buses are generally considered safe and reliable.

Rideshare

Taxi services are the most common form of rideshare in Trinidad and Tobago. The average cost for a taxi ride is around $20 USD for a 20 minute journey.

Driving by Car

Driving in Trinidad and Tobago is relatively easy, but it is important to always be aware of other drivers and road conditions. The speed limit is generally 65 km/h on highways and 50 km/h in towns and cities. Trinidad and Tobago uses left hand drive.

Local Customs

In Trinidad and Tobago, it is common to tip 10-15% at restaurants or for taxi rides. Locals greet each other with a handshake or hug, and may say 'good day' or 'good morning/afternoon/evening.' When speaking with strangers, it is polite to use formal titles like 'Sir' or 'Ma'am.' Men and women generally address each other with first names or nicknames, but it is considered respectful to use titles with elders or authority figures.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The healthcare system in Trinidad and Tobago is a mixed public-private model with both public hospitals and private clinics available. The public healthcare system is free for citizens, but non-residents may be required to pay for services. A visit to a private doctor can range from $50-$200 USD. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies before visiting Trinidad and Tobago.

COVID Situation

Trinidad and Tobago has implemented strict measures to combat COVID-19, including border closures and mandatory quarantine for travelers. As of August 2021, there are currently low rates of coronavirus cases in the country.

Common Health Risks

Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and Zika virus are prevalent in Trinidad and Tobago. It is recommended to take precautions against mosquito bites, such as wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent. Food and water-borne illnesses such as typhoid fever and hepatitis A can also occur, so it is advised to drink bottled or boiled water and to be cautious with food hygiene.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Trinidad and Tobago, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Alcohol consumption is legal and widely accepted, but drinking and driving is strictly prohibited and can result in severe penalties. Public drinking is also prohibited in certain areas. There are also restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcohol during certain holidays and events.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use, including cannabis, is illegal in Trinidad and Tobago. Possession and distribution of drugs can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The country also has strict regulations on prescription drugs, and travelers are advised to carry a copy of their prescription to avoid any issues.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Premarital relationships are legal and widely accepted in Trinidad and Tobago. The country has no laws prohibiting sexual activity between consenting adults of the same or different genders.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

The LGBTQ community in Trinidad and Tobago faces significant legal challenges. Same-sex sexual activity is criminalized and can result in imprisonment for up to 25 years. The country also has no legal recognition of same-sex relationships, and discrimination against LGBTQ individuals is prevalent in society.

Firearms / Guns

Trinidad and Tobago has strict laws regarding firearms. Only licensed citizens are permitted to own firearms, and strict regulations are in place for the purchase and storage of guns. Illegal firearms are a significant problem in the country, and gun violence is a concern in certain areas.