Money:
The unit of currency is the Trinidad and Tobago, or TT Dollar
(TTD), which is divided into 100 cents. Most ATMs and stores will
accept international credit cards. Travellers cheques, US dollars
cash and credit cards are accepted by most establishments. Money
can also be changed at bureaux de change offices. Banks are open
from Monday to Friday.
Time:
Local time in Trinidad and Tobago is GMT -4.
Electricity:
Electrical current is in Trinidad and Tobago 115/230
volts, 60hz. Two-pin flat blade plugs are used.
Language:
English is the official language in Trinidad and
Tonago.
Health:
A yellow fever vaccination is required for entry for those
entering Trinidad and Tobago from infected areas, but it is
recommended that all travellers to Trinidad and Tobago are
vaccinated against yellow fever. An inoculation for Hepatitis A is
also suggested for those visiting rural areas. Insect protection is
advised, as there is an increasing risk of dengue fever. There is a
high prevalence of HIV/AIDS. 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.
Tipping:
Most hotels and restaurants in Trinidad and Tobago 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 (particularly at night), and when travelling from Piarco
Airport where gangs have been known to follow cars and attack the
occupants at their destination. There has been an increase in
robberies, where tourists have been attacked and robbed. There has
been an increase in attacks at tourist sites, including Fort George
and the Pitch Lake, and sometimes with the use of firearms;
visitors are warned not to resist muggers and robbers who are also
targeting foreigners at car parks outside places like shopping
malls and restaurants. 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 to violent robberies and
should hire security officers; visitors are also 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.
Customs:
The people of Trinidad and Tobago are friendly and hospitable
and generally happy to assist tourists, but keep in mind that it is
polite to greet a stranger before asking a question. Nude or
topless bathing is not allowed in Trinidad and Tobago. If invited
to a home, it is customary to bring a gift.
Business:
The economy of Trinidad and Tobago has been growing steadily
over the past four years and foreign investment is on the increase.
A firm handshake starts and ends a meeting. Formal attire is common
however not always necessary; it is worth finding out from the
relevant sector of business. Business cards are generally handed
out and received immediately after introductions. Business hours
are generally 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday with an hour taken over
lunch.
Duty Free:
Visitors arriving in Trinidad and Tobago are allowed to bring in
the following goods without paying duty: 200 cigarettes, or 50
cigars, or 227g tobacco; 1 quart wine or spirits; and perfume for
personal use. Travellers are also permitted to bring gifts
totalling not more than US$200 in value. Alcohol and tobacco
products are allowed only for passengers over the age of 17
years.
Communications:
The international dialling code for Trinidad and Tobago is +1
868. To dial out from the islands the prefix is 011, followed by
the relevant country code (e.g. 01127 for South Africa). A GSM 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.