TRINIDAD & TOBAGO PRACTICALITIES

Money and costs

Currency is the Trinidad & Tobago dollar (TT$) and while the US$ is acceptable practically everywhere, payment by T&T dollars is usually preferred. Visa and MasterCard can be used in most restaurants and hotels but you are advised to always have some cash (preferably in lower denomination notes) to pay for incidentals. T&T is one of the cheapest Caribbean countries because of the islands comparatively low tourist profile, however all costs escalate dramatically over carnival, when the place is flooded with eager party-goers. On Trinidad there are ATM machines at the airport, in Port of Spain and some of the larger towns while on Tobago the only cash dispensers are at the airport and in Scarborough. Travellers cheques should be taken in US$.

Language

English is the official language although French, Spanish and Chinese are also spoken. With such a racial mix it’s not surprising that a fantastically colourful Creole tongue has developed that draws on all of these and which can be fairly difficult to follow. However, most Trinbagonians will ‘slow-it-down’ for the uninitiated. Language is used extremely creatively and everyday use of language is often characterised by cheeky wordplay. Check out the catalogue of famous Trini expressions.

Health and Safety

Tap water is generally safe to drink (although bottled mineral water is the safest bet and is widely available) and there is no malaria. On the whole the hygiene standards are good, although any change in diet and climate can affect some peoples digestive systems. You should try to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes, as dengue fever is still prevalent in some parts. Biggest problems tend to be dehydration and sunburn so drink lots, slap on the sun block and cover up.

Like any country there are certain places to avoid, usually in the cities, and normal precautions against theft should be taken. Use the hotel safe for valuables, and don’t leave anything unattended on the beach. However, in general there is very little hassle, the people are friendly and welcoming.

If you intend to trek independently you must always take the advise of your hotel owner.

Climate and Weather

The driest and sunniest time of year is December to April, with February and March the driest months, with lowest humidity. Year round the temperature is consistently between about 25 and 32 degrees at sea level, dropping if you are any higher in the hills. May, June and November are regarded as shoulder season, when there aren’t any crowds, but the weather is still mainly dry, although humid, and prices are lower. In September and October, many places close for refurbishment, as this is the wettest time, and there is some risk of hurricanes. Trinidad and Tobago, are south of the hurricane belt, and just get a little extra rain. July and August can still be good times to go, so long as you don’t plan to spend the days sunning on the beach. Mornings are often dry and sunny, with heavy rain showers at lunch times being the norm. On average there is rain 2 days out of 3 during these months, although more so on the mountainous areas, and some low lying and coastal areas can stay reasonably dry. An umbrella can be useful, especially outside the driest months.

Car Hire

This is a great way to get around on most of our destinations in the Caribbean. Take your UK licence, and you may have to pay a few dollars to get a local licence. Drive on the left in the English speaking islands, and although the roads can be pot holed, there are few traffic jams, and not much traffic to worry about. You should be cautious not to pull over on to the “shoulder” as the edges often have steep gullies or drop-offs. Signposts are few and far between, but as the islands are small, you cant really go too far wrong, and you might discover something interesting, even if you are going the wrong way! Basic maps are available at the hotels, but better ones can be obtained from tourist offices in the main towns.

Local flights

Flying between the islands is usually a fairly basic affair, on twin propeller light aircraft. Seating is not pre-allocated, but they are all either window or aisle. The airports are more like bus stations, and can be hot so don’t check in too early. An hour to an hour and a half is fine. There are various departure taxes and security charges payable on check in, between US$12 and $20 so have some cash in hand.

What to bring

Travel light! There is no need for warm clothing or jackets. Some walking sandals and light walking shoes are useful. A folding umbrella or very light rain jacket/poncho should be enough for the occasional rainfall. Binoculars if you are planning on whale watching or birding trips, and some insect repellent and afterbite, if heading for the jungle. If you have them, take mask and snorkel, as there are many opportunities, but you can also hire them locally. Hiking shorts and T-shirt are fine for general wear, but you might want a dress or light shirt and trousers for restaurant visits. Most Caribbeans dress quite smartly, despite the heat, so it is polite to make a bit of effort. Most hotels provide beach towels, but a sarong or similar is a good idea for the beach or pool. A pocket knife for cutting up mangoes and other fruits, is handy, and a packet of wet wipes to clean up with afterwards.

If you are staying in the remoter parts, take a torch in case of power failure/ generators switching off.

If you are taking expensive camera gear, plastic bags or a waterproof case are worthwhile, as rain, boat trips, and sudden showers can play havoc with sensitive equipment. Don’t forget your driving licence. A basic first aid kit should include antihistamine for insect bites, and fungicide in case of athletes food or similar fungal infections taking hold. Some general antiseptic such as Savlon, should be applied to any cuts or bites to avoid infections, which are easy to acquire in humid tropical conditions.

Business Hours

On the whole most businesses open between 8 am and 9am, and close at around 4pm, although some shops stay open longer hours. On Saturday some close at mid day, and nearly everything closes on Sunday, so beware of letting petrol run out, or your purse emptying at the weekend.