UK
Carnival, Coral & Caribbean Cool
This twin-island nation offers two distinct vibes: Trinidad pulses with energy, festivals, and nightlife, while Tobago whispers serenity with palm-fringed beaches and coral reefs. For UK travellers, it’s a Caribbean escape with cultural depth and natural beauty.
Air Travel
Flights from London to Port of Spain take around 10 hours, often with stopovers via Miami, New York, or Barbados. Tobago is a short domestic hop from Trinidad or accessible via seasonal international flights.
Airlines
British Airways, Caribbean Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic offer routes. Inter-island travel is served by Caribbean Airlines and domestic ferries.
Trinidad And Tobago
Carnival, Coral & Caribbean Cool
Landmark
Travel Season
- December–May: Dry season, ideal for beaches and festivals
- June–November: Wet season with tropical showers and lush landscapes
- February/March: Carnival season—book early!
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD)
- Cards accepted in cities; cash preferred in rural areas
- ATMs available in towns and airports
- Tipping: 10% in restaurants is customary
Connectivity
- Good Wi-Fi in hotels and cafes
- Local SIMs: Digicel, bmobile
- Coverage is solid across both islands
Getting Around
- Taxis and minibuses in Trinidad; rental cars recommended in Tobago
- Inter-island ferry and flights available
- No rail network
- Driving is on the left (UK-style)
Time Zone
- Atlantic Standard Time (AST) – GMT-4 (no daylight saving)
Etiquette & Culture
- English is the official language
- Trinidadians are lively and expressive; Tobagonians are laid-back and warm
- Greet with a smile or handshake
- Carnival is a cultural cornerstone—join in respectfully
Top Destinations
- Port of Spain: Carnival, museums, and nightlife
- Scarborough (Tobago): Gateway to beaches and nature
- Pigeon Point: Tobago’s postcard-perfect beach
- Maracas Bay: Surf and street food
- Speyside: Diving and nature trails
- Pitch Lake: Unique geological wonder in La Brea
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Doubles (spicy chickpea sandwich), Bake and Shark, Callaloo, Pelau
- Drinks: Sorrel, Mauby, rum punch, coconut water
- Tap water is generally safe in cities
- Street food is popular and delicious
personal_bag What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing
- Swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen
- Power adapter (Type A/B – 115V)
- Insect repellent and waterproof gear (wet season)
Best Time to Visit
- Dry season (Dec–May): Best for beaches and outdoor activities
- Carnival (Feb/Mar): Music, costumes, and celebration
- Shoulder season (Nov & June): Fewer crowds and lush scenery
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Tobago is considered safer than Trinidad, which has urban crime hotspots
- Emergency number: 999 (police), 811 (ambulance)
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid; mosquito precautions advised
- As of July 2025, a State of Emergency is in place in Trinidad due to criminal activity, but no curfews or movement restrictions have been imposed
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Port of Spain
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