Welcome to Trinidad & Tobago

Calypso, soca and the steelband - it all started here!

Welcome to the unique Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago!

The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago comprises two islands at the southern-most end of the Caribbean archipelago. Trinidad – the larger of the two islands – is situated only 10 km from the east coast of Venezuela. The capital city and main centre of government, Port of Spain is a hub of business activity and a major financial centre.

Trinidad and Tobago are only 32 km miles apart, linked by regular air services and daily ferries, but they’re quite different, so it’s like getting two destinations for the price of one.

Trinidad moves at a frenetic pace, from the driving rhythms of Carnival to a robust economy open for international business. Trinidad is the economic powerhouse with its oil and gas, its unique culture spawning dynamic creative industries and world-renowned festivals.

Tobago is one of the few remaining Caribbean oases not overrun by tourism, with idyllic beaches, unspoilt rainforest, and folk traditions that have stood the test of time. Tobago is the place for an idyllic beach getaway, an escape into nature, a heart-pounding eco-adventure on land or at sea.

The two islands are a study in contrast. Trinidad is  known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle and festivities. It’s extroverted, lively, full of music and activity and energy. The richness of its flora and fauna reflects its past linkage to the South American mainland. The more serene Tobago is the centre of the country’s tourism industry, with its coral reefs, wonderful clear water and sugary-white sand beaches, natural beauty and a charisma all of its own. Tobago is where Trinidadians go to relax.

Calypso, soca and the steelband - it all started here.

Trinidad & Tobago at a glance

Capital Cities
Trinidad: Port of Spain
Tobago: Scarborough

Population
Trinidad: 1.25 million (estimate)
Tobago: 54,000 (estimate)

Ethnic breakdown
40% Indian/South Asian, 37.5% African, 20.5% Mixed Race, 1.2% other

Language
English (official), Caribbean Hindustani (a dialect of Hindi), French, Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese/Mandarin)

Time Zone
UTC/GMT -4 hours. AST (Atlantic Standard Time)

Climate
Located outside of the hurricane belt, temperatures range from 70 to 90 F year-round. The rainy season is from June through December.

Money/Exchange rate
The national currency is Trinidad & Tobago dollars (TT) but U.S. currency is widely accepted. Rate of exchange is approximately 6.4 TT to 1 USD (as of October 2011).

International Airports
Trinidad: Piarco International Airport
Tobago: A.N.R. Robinson International Airport

Entry Requirements
Valid passport and onward return ticket. In some cases a visa may be required for entry – to learn if you will need an entry visa please click here.

Source:
The Tourism Development Company Limited (TDC) and Discover Trinidad & Tobago magazine.

Header photo by Trinidad & Tobago Convention Bureau