Travel guide – Trinidad and Tobago
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Overview
The island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, known colloquially as "TNT", consists of the two southernmost Caribbean islands, which are geologically an extension of the South American continent. While individually the islands contrast vastly in character, together they offer the best of everything one can expect from a Caribbean experience.
Trendy Trinidad, site of the bustling capital Port of Spain, is sophisticated, cosmopolitan and culturally diverse, its vibrancy reflected in its main attraction, the annual Carnival. Locals spend most of the year preparing for the lavish February fling which is an orgy of calypso music and dance, steel bands, food, dazzling costumes and marvellous floats. The chic capital, with its colonial style houses set beside modern high-rise towers, continually hums with colourful markets, bazaars, and malls, with a mish-mash of gothic-style cathedrals, mosques and Hindu temples testifying to the diversity of cultures and creeds that throng the streets.
Those wanting a quieter experience can leave the hectic city behind and explore Trinidad's beautiful north coast beaches or hike through the forested peaks of the interior. Along the east coast nature lovers will find protected wetlands and coconut groves, while down south on this rectangular island are some enchanting fishing villages nestled among quiet, empty beaches.
A daily domestic ferry service connects Trinidad to its more laid back little sister island, Tobago, renowned as being the last unspoilt Caribbean paradise. A typical tropical wonderland of palm-fringed beaches, verdant rain forests and sparkling coral reefs, Tobago also boasts a nature-lovers treasure trove of birds, butterflies, flowering plants and shrubs. There are 100 different mammals and 70 kinds of reptiles roaming the island, too, most famous of which is the giant leatherback turtle which nests on the magnificent leeward (north) beaches. To the south the Atlantic beats against a coast studded with fishing villages, while the hilly interior is coated with one of the world's oldest rainforest reserves.
Climate
The islands enjoy a tropical climate with average maximum temperatures of 89°F (32°C). Tobago's temperatures are cooler, owing to the more constant north east trade winds. There is a dry season between January and May and a wet season from June to December. Annual rainfall is about 40 inches (200cm) over most of the country. Trinidad and Tobago lies just south of the hurricane belt.
Health
No vaccinations are required for entry, but an inoculation for Hepatitis A is recommended, as well as yellow fever and typhoid for those visiting rural areas. Insect protection is advised, as there is a risk of dengue fever. Medical facilities are limited and medical personnel prone to striking. Proof of ability to pay is often required before treatment is given, even in emergencies. Medical insurance with provision for evacuation is strongly advised.
The basics
Time
GMT 5 (summer), GMT 4 (winter).
Electricity
Electrical current is 115 volts/230 volts, 60hz. Two-pin flat blade plugs are used.
Language
English is the official language.
Tipping
Most hotels and restaurants add a service charge to the bill, usually 10 or 15%. If this is not the case a 10% tip is usual.
Safety
Most visits to Trinidad and Tobago are trouble free, but there is an increasing incidence of crime against tourists on both islands. In Trinidad be especially vigilant in downtown Port of Spain at night, and when travelling from Piarco Airport where gangs have been known to follow cars and attack the occupants at their destination. Five explosions in downtown Port of Spain since July 2005 have injured many people. There has been an increase in attacks at tourist sites, including Fort George, and sometimes with the use of firearms; visitors are warned not to resist muggers and robbers. Take precautions like not wearing flashy jewellery and storing valuables in hotel safety deposit boxes. In Tobago there has recently been a spate of violent robberies against foreigners, mainly in the south west area, and crime on Tobago is a serious concern. Those staying in private villas, especially in the south west, are particularly vulnerable and should hire security officers; visitors are warned against staying in villas near the Mount Irvine Golf Course area where several incidents have been reported. Use official guides to visit attractions, stay in groups in country areas, avoid isolated beaches and use taxis after dark. In December 2005 there were attacks and sexual assaults on foreign nationals at Englishman's Bay and at King Peter's Bay in February 2006.
Communications
The international dialling code for Trinidad and Tobago is +1 868. To dial out from the islands the prefix is 011. A GSM 1800 cell phone network is in operation on the islands, with fairly wide coverage. There are several Internet cafes on the island in the main centres.
Duty Free
Visitors arriving in Trinidad and Tobago are allowed to bring in the following goods without paying duty: 200 cigarettes, or 50g cigars, or 227g tobacco; 1 litre wine or spirits; and perfume for personal use. Travellers are also permitted to bring gifts totalling not more than US$200 in value.
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