Why visit Trinidad and Tobago?

You’ve got two main routes—by air or by sea—and both kick off your island adventure the moment you step on board.

By Air

Fly into ANR Robinson International Airport (TAB) just outside Scarborough. Caribbean Airlines and several regional carriers operate daily hops from Port of Spain (about 25 minutes), plus flights from hubs like Barbados, Antigua and select North American gateways.

When you land, licensed taxis (look for plates beginning with “H”) wait curbside at fixed rates—or pick up your rental car right at the terminal and set your own pace (we drive on the left).

By Ferry

Head to the Port of Spain ferry terminal for a comfortable sea crossing—most services depart twice a day and take roughly 2½–3 hours.

On clear days you’ll dramatic coastal views as you glide toward Scarborough’s harbor. Make sure to bring movement sickness pills as you might get sick though the ferry is very comfortable.

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Having spent months exploring Trinidad’s peaks, rainforests and city streets, I can tell you it’s generally safe—locals are warm and welcoming, and most visits pass without a hitch. That said, it pays to use common sense, especially in busy urban areas. Here’s what’s worked for me:

Stay aware in Port-of-Spain: Petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatches) can happen in crowded markets or on public transport. Keep valuables in front-facing bags or money belts.

Use licensed taxis: Look for yellow plates starting with “H” and agree your fare before you hop in. Ride-hailing apps like TT Uber work well in the city.

Avoid empty, poorly lit streets at night: Stick to well-lit main roads or take a trusted taxi if you’re out late.

Secure your accommodation: Use hotel safes or locked luggage for passports, extra cash and electronics.

Watch your drink: As at any party hotspot (hello, Carnival!), keep an eye on your glass and never leave it unattended.

Beach & nature safety: Beaches like Maracas and Las Cuevas have lifeguards; ask locals about currents before swimming. On hikes, go with a group or guide and carry water, a phone and a headlamp if you’ll be back after dark.

Tobago’s compact size means you’ve got plenty of options—pick what fits your style and budget. I kicked things off by hiring a driver to show me the ropes, and after a day or two, I felt confident enough to get behind the wheel myself.

Rent a car

Freedom to roam: Ideal once you know the roads—go at your own pace to hidden bays, waterfalls and hillside lookouts.

Left-hand driving: Road signs are clear but some back roads get narrow and winding—take it slow, especially after rain.

Tip: I started with a local driver for a day’s island tour, then rented a car so I could explore solo.

Maxi Taxis (shared vans)

Budget-friendly: Fixed routes between Scarborough, Crown Point, Morningstar and Charlotteville.

Hail and hop: They leave when full—just flag one down at a stand or on the roadside.

Cost: Roughly TT $8–15 per ride, depending on distance.

Private Taxis

Door-to-door service: Look for yellow plates starting with “H,” agree on the fare upfront.

Great for groups: Negotiate half- or full-day rates to tour the island with friends.

Scooters & Bikes

Quick runs: Perfect for short hops between nearby beaches and villages—watch for potholes and always wear a helmet.

Where to rent: Crown Point and Castara have rental shops.

Water Taxis & Boat Charters

Sea routes: Some operators connect Store Bay, Pigeon Point and Blue Waters by boat—ask locally for schedules.

Private charters: Ideal for beach-hopping, snorkeling stops or a sunset cruise.

On Foot

Walkable towns: Castara, Speyside and Scarborough are great for strolling—pop into a rum shop or local bakery.

Trails & hikes: Many waterfalls and ridge walks start as footpaths—bring sturdy shoes.

Trash. Street food almost always comes wrapped in aluminum foil, and many restaurants serve it in to-go boxes. Luckily enough, a foldable food container will go a long way.

Generally speaking, responsible tourism practices are not (yet) prevalent in Trinidad or Tobago. Therefore, wear eco-friendly sunscreen when visiting waterfalls and the beach.

Sunscreen: Protect Marine life and wear reef-friendly sunscreen!

Sunscreen: Protect Trinidads coast by using reef-friendly sunscreen.

You’ve got two straightforward options—by air or by sea—and both are easy to book:

By Air

Duration: About a 25-minute flight.

Airlines: Caribbean Airlines runs multiple daily flights between Piarco International Airport (POS) near Port of Spain and ANR Robinson Airport (TAB) outside Scarborough.

Booking: Reserve online or through travel agents; flights often fill up around Carnival and Christmas, so book early if you travel in peak season.

On arrival: Taxis, rental cars and maxi-taxis are all waiting curbside at TAB to whisk you to your Tobago base.

By Ferry

Duration: Roughly 2½–3 hours on a comfortable passenger catamaran.

Departure/Arrival: Ferries depart Port of Spain’s ferry terminal and arrive at Scarborough’s bay.

Schedule: Typically two sailings each way daily; times vary by operator so check online or call ahead.

Booking & Fare: Buy tickets at the terminal or online; fares are budget-friendly and you can bring a small amount of luggage onboard.

Generally, yes—the public water supply in Tobago is treated and routinely tested, so it meets local safety standards. In most hotels, guesthouses and restaurants you’ll find the tap water is chlorinated and perfectly fine for brushing your teeth or making coffee.

That said, if you have a sensitive stomach—or you’re heading off the beaten path to remote bays—I prefer to stick to a UV water bottle just to play it safe. Here’s my rule of thumb:

• In Scarborough, Crown Point & major resorts: Tap water is usually OK; feel free to refill a reusable bottle at a filtered-water station.

• In villages or rustic eco-lodges: Opt for bottled water, especially if you’re unsure about the plumbing.

• During heavy rains: Occasionally there can be brief turbidity or boil advisories—your accommodation or tour operator will let you know.

Standard English: The official language used in government, schools, media and business.

Trinidadian Creole & Tobagonian Creole: English-based creoles used in everyday conversation, with distinct local flavors on each island.

Spanish: Widely taught in schools and spoken, especially in communities near the Venezuelan coast.

Trinidadian Hindustani: A Bhojpuri-derived dialect preserved mainly by older Indo-Trinidadian families and in cultural events.

French Creole (Patois): A small, older community still uses this French-based creole in rural villages.

Tamil: Spoken by some elderly members of the Tamil-heritage community.

Chinese Dialects: Hakka and Cantonese are common among Chinese-Trinidadians, with some Mandarin among newer residents.

Sign Languages: The indigenous Trinidad and Tobago Sign Language serves the local deaf community, and American Sign Language is also used in schools and by many deaf individuals.