Trinidad en Tobago - Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad en Tobago is 'n nasie wat hoofsaaklik uit twee bestaan Karibiese eilande, Trinidad en Tobago, net aan die noordoostelike kus van Venezuela. Die land is die mees geïndustrialiseerde en een van die welvarendste in die Karibiese Eilande. Oor die algemeen is toerisme nie 'n belangrike bedryf nie (hoewel die eiland Tobago proporsioneel meer het), wat die eilande oorlaai met natuurlike ongerepte skoonheid wat nie in die meeste ander Karibiese lande voorkom nie.

Verstaan

Geskiedenis

Die eilande is vir die eerste keer bewoon deur mense van Arawak en Carib, wat hulle hier vanaf die Suid-Amerikaanse vasteland gevestig het en waarvan die nasate 'n klein minderheid van die bevolking uitmaak. Trinidad is gesien deur Christopher Columbus, wat dit vir Spanje geëis het. Onder Spaanse bewind het baie Franse setlaars kakaoplantasies in Trinidad gevestig en slawe ingevoer om dit te bewerk. Die Britte het die eiland in 1798 in beslag geneem en slawerny afgeskaf. Om die tekort aan arbeid te vergoed, het die regering swaar immigrasie uit lande soos Portugal, Frankryk, Duitsland, China en veral Indië aangemoedig. Trinidad is in die 1880's met Tobago verenig. Gedurende die vroeë 1900's het die land duisende meestal swart immigrante uit ander Karibiese lande sowel as Venezuela en Colombia verwelkom. Na die Tweede Wêreldoorlog is TT saam met verskillende ander Britse Karibiese lande in die Wes-Indiese Federasie gekombineer. Die verskillende groepe eilande kon egter nie oor die weg kom nie en die federasie het gou in duie gestort. Uiteindelik het TT op 31 Augustus 1962 volkome onafhanklikheid verkry. Gedurende die 1960's en 1970's het die land vooruitgegaan danksy groot deposito's van olie en natuurlike gas, wat die rykste land in die Karibiese Eilande geword het. In die laat tagtigerjare het oliepryse egter aansienlik gedaal, wat 'n groot ekonomiese ineenstorting veroorsaak het. Duisende Trinidadiërs het die land in hierdie tyd verlaat op soek na beter geleenthede elders. Gedurende die 1990's en 2000's het die land dramaties herstel en die lewenstandaard van die land verbeter vandag steeds.

Mense

Die land het 'n kosmopolitiese samelewing wat bewoon word deur baie verskillende volke en kulture wat in relatiewe vrede en harmonie saamwoon. Etnies Indiërs vorm 'n veelheid van die bevolking, terwyl swart mense van Afrika-afkoms die tweede grootste groep vorm.

Ekonomie

Die twee eilande het verskillende persoonlikhede. Trinidad is die grootste van die twee en is die ligging van die meeste van die land se stede en aktiwiteite. Dit is ook die industriële sentrum van die land, bekend vir die produksie van petroleum en aardgas, wat T&T een van die welvarendste lande in die Karibiese Eilande maak. Tobago is bekend vir toerisme, wat die belangrikste bedryf is en 'n gewilde toeristebestemming is. Albei eilande het 'n deel van die natuurskoon.

Klimaat

Trinidad en Tobago, baie binne die trope, geniet 'n algemeen aangename maritieme tropiese klimaat wat beïnvloed word deur die noordweste passaatwinde. In Trinidad is die gemiddelde jaarlikse temperatuur 26 ° C (78.8 ° F), en die gemiddelde maksimum temperatuur is 34 ° C (93.2 ° F). Die humiditeit is hoog, veral gedurende die reënseisoen, wanneer dit gemiddeld 85 tot 87% is. Die eiland kry gemiddeld 2 110 millimeter (83,1 inch) reënval per jaar, gewoonlik gekonsentreer in die maande Junie tot Desember, wanneer kort, intense buie gereeld voorkom. Neerslag is die hoogste in die Noordelike Bereik, wat soveel as 3.810 mm (150 in) kan ontvang. Gedurende die droë seisoen pla die droogte die sentrale binneland van die eiland. Tobago se klimaat is soortgelyk aan Trinidad, maar effens koeler. Die reënseisoen strek van Junie tot Desember; die jaarlikse reënval is 2 500 mm. Die eilande lê buite die orkaangordel; nieteenstaande dit, het die orkaan Flora Tobago in 1963 beskadig, en die tropiese storm Alma het Trinidad in 1974 getref en skade aangerig voordat hy volle krag gekry het.

Terrein

Trinidad word deur drie verskillende bergreekse deurkruis. Die Noordelike Bereik, 'n buitelyn van die Andesberge van Venezuela, bestaan ​​uit ruige heuwels wat parallel aan die kus is. Hierdie reeks styg in twee pieke. Die hoogste, El Cerro del Aripo, is 940 m (3.084 voet) hoog; die ander, El Tucuche, bereik 936m. Die sentrale reeks strek skuins oor die eiland en is 'n laagliggende reeks. Die Caroni-vlakte strek suidwaarts en skei die Noordelike Reeks en die Sentrale Reeks. Die suidelike reeks bestaan ​​uit 'n gebreekte heuwellyn met 'n maksimum hoogte van 305 m (1.001 voet). Daar is talle riviere en strome op die eiland Trinidad; die belangrikste is die Ortoire-rivier en die Caroni-rivier.

Tobago is bergagtig en word oorheers deur die Main Ridge, wat 29 kilometer lank is en tot 640 meter hoog is. Daar is diep, vrugbare valleie wat noord en suid van die Main Ridge loop. Die suidwestelike punt van die eiland het 'n koraalplatform. Alhoewel Tobago vulkanies van oorsprong is, is daar geen aktiewe vulkane nie. Daar is talle riviere en strome, maar oorstromings en erosie is minder ernstig as in Trinidad.

Vakansies

• 1 Januarie: Nuwejaarsdag
• Februarie/vroeg in Maart: Karnaval (nie 'n amptelike vakansie nie); net voor Aswoensdag (Lent)
• 30 Maart: Bevrydingsdag vir geestelike Baptiste / Shouter
• Paasfees (beweegbaar)
• Corpus Christi (beweegbaar)
• 30 Mei: Indiese Aankomsdag
• 19 Junie: Werkersdag
• 1 Augustus: Emansipasie-dag
• 31 Augustus: Onafhanklikheidsdag
• 24 September: Republiekdag
• Eid al-Fitr: (veranderlik)
• 25 Desember: Kersfees
• 26 Desember: Boksdag

Streke

Stede

• 10.666666666667-61.5166666666671 Port-of-Spain - Hoofstad
• 10.625-61.2791666666672 Arima - geboorteplek van die beroemde Calypso artiste "Lord Kitchener"
• 10.514444444444-61.40753 Chaguanas - die vinnigste groeiende en grootste munisipaliteit, meestal bevolk deur afstammelinge van Oos-Indiese arbeiders
• 10.683333333333-61.6333333333334 Chaguaramas - gebied in die noordweste van Trinidad, wat die seiljagsentrum van die land is, met baie fasiliteite vir boteienaars
• 10.166666666667-61.6666666666675 Punt Fortin - suidwestelike munisipaliteit, wat aan die buitewyke van die La Brea Pitch Lake lê en bekend is vir olieproduksie
• 10.283333333333-61.4666666666676 San Fernando - Suidelike stad
• 11.183333333333-60.7333333333337 Scarborough (Hoofstad van Tobago)

Ander bestemmings

• Caroni Bird Sanctuary en voormalige suikerrietlandgoedere (baie mooi plek om voëls te kyk, baie muskiete)
• Noordkusstrande (Maracas, Las Cuevas)
• La Brea Pitch Lake
• Lopinot Historical Site - museum gebou op voormalige kakao-landgoed wat besit word deur die Franse graaf Charles Joseph de Lopinot
• Roxborough - Noord-Tobago, tropiese reënwoudreservaat
• Onder die eilande af - die klein eilande langs die noordwestelike skiereiland bied 'n rustige toevlugsoord.

Gaan in

Toelatingsvereistes

Alle besoekers moet beskik oor: 'n paspoort wat geldig is vir die duur van die verblyf, 'n retoerkaartjie, bewys van fondse om hulself te onderhou, 'n adres in TT, soos 'n hotel of familie / vriend.

Burgers van die Verenigde Koninkryk, VSA, Kanada, Caricom-lande (behalwe Haïti), Singapoer en die meeste EER en Latyns-Amerikaanse lande benodig nie 'n visum vir vakansie of werk van 90 dae of minder nie. Ander nasionaliteite moet aansoek doen om a vooraf visum^{[dooie skakel]} by 'n ambassade of konsulaat van TT in die buiteland. Wanneer u die land verlaat, is daar 'n vertrekbelasting van TT $ 5 op die veerboot na Venezuela.

Met die vliegtuig

Die belangrikste lughawe is Piarco Internasionale Lughawe (POS ^IATA) aan Trinidad, ongeveer 25 km suidoos van Port of Spain. Direkte lugdiens is beskikbaar vanaf Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Houston, Orlando, New York (JFK), en Newark, VSA; Toronto, Kanada; Londen, die Verenigde Koninkryk; Caracas en Porlomar, Venezuela; Panama-stad, Panama; Paramaribo, Suriname; Georgetown, Guyana; Barbados en verskeie ander eilande in die Karibiese Eilande.

Lugdiens wat Trinidad bedien

Caribbean Airlines (die nasionale lugdiens), direkte vlugte vanaf Miami, New York, Ft Lauderdale, Orlando, Toronto, Caracas, Georgetown, Kingston, Paramaribo, Barbados en ander Karibiese eilande na Port-of-Spain (POS ^IATA).

Air Canada Rouge, direkte vlugte vanaf Toronto

American Airlines, direkte vlugte vanaf Miami

British Airways, direkte vlugte vanaf Londen Gatwick

Caribbean Airlines direkte vlugte vanaf Noord-Amerika, Suid-Amerika en regdeur die Karibiese Eilande.

Copa Airlines, direkte vlugte vanaf Panamá City.

JetBlue, direkte vlugte vanaf Ft. Lauderdale en New York-JFK.

Surinam Airways, direkte vlugte vanaf Paramaribo en Curaçao

United Airlines, direkte vlugte vanaf Houston en Newark

WestJet, direkte vlugte vanaf Toronto

Lugrederye wat Tobago bedien

Tobago s'n Arthur Napoleon Raymond Robinson Internasionale Lughawe (TAB ^IATA) het beperkte direkte dienste, meestal vanaf Londen

Caribbean Airlines bied binnelandse vlugte vanaf Trinidad en 'n direkte vlug vanaf New York (JFK) aan

Virgin Atlantic, direkte vlugte vanaf Gatwick Londen

British Airways, direkte vlugte vanaf Gatwick Londen

Condor, huurdiens vanaf Frankfurt, Duitsland

Internasionale vertrekbelasting is TT $ 200 vanaf 2014, wat by die verkooppunt by die koste van u kaartjie ingesluit is.

Per boot

Trinidad is 'n gewilde plek onder seiljag-eienaars. Die meeste anker in die Chaguaramas-gebied aan die noordwestekant van die eiland. Die Trinidad en Tobago Seilvereniging bied dienste aan bootvaarders, wat plaaslik bekend staan ​​as "Yachties". Cruise-skepe kan ook aanlê by die Cruise Ship Complex in Port of Spain.

Kry rond

Binne die eilande

Deur te ry

TTRS Trinidad en Tobago Ride-aandeel is 'n veilige en klooster manier om rond te kom. Laai die app af en word geverifieer voordat u vertrek. U kan die bestuurder in TT-dollars of met u kredietkaart betaal, maar u moet inskryf voordat die reis begin. Uber bestaan ​​nie in Trinidad nie.

Met die taxi

Taxicabs is bloot normale passasiersvoertuie sonder spesiale merke. Hul nommerplate begin egter met die letter "H". Dit word aangetref by taxistaanplekke wat aan 'n straathoek of langs die pad kan wees. Taxistaanplekke in die stede en stadsdele is gewoonlik gemerk, maar buite die stad is dit nie. 'N Mens kan egter 'n taxi van die kant van die pad af groet en vra waarheen hulle gaan en die tarief voordat jy die taxi huur. 'N Mens betaal vir 'n individuele sitplek en die taxi's word gedeel, maar 'n hele motor kan gehuur word as dit verkies word en as daar nie baie passasiers wag nie. Lughawetaxi's is 'n uitsondering hierop, aangesien 'n mens die hele motor byna altyd moet huur.

Daar is groter taxi's, genaamd "Maxitaxis" of bloot "Maxis" wat op 'n bepaalde roete gaan. Dit is soortgelyk aan minibusse en is wit of beige geverf en het 'n gekleurde band om hulle. Elke maksimum hou gewoonlik ongeveer 11 of 25 passasiers. Die kleur van die band dui die area aan waarin hulle reis. Hulle het hul eie taxistaanplekke en terminale. In Port of Spain vertrek die maxis en arriveer by die City Gate-terminale, en in San Fernando vertrek hulle en arriveer by die busterminal by King's Wharf. Hierdie Maxi-taxi's reis na die ooste-, suid- en sentrale gebiede van die eiland. Om na die weste te reis, is daar 'n paar aangewese gebiede soos die Diego Martin / Petit Valley / Carenage / Chagaramas maxi-staanplek, 'n paar kilometer van die stadspoort af. 'N Maxi-taxi kan gedurende 'n gehuurde reis vir 'n hele dag gehuur word. Hieroor kan u vooraf met die maxi-taxibestuurders direk onderhandel. Pryse wissel.

Daar is ook sigeunerhutte beskikbaar. Plaaslik word hulle 'PH' genoem omdat dit privaat motors is wat onwettig gebruik word om te huur. Wees versigtig aangesien 'PH' bestuurders gekoppel is aan misdaad, insluitende moord, ontvoering en roof, en geen versekering vir gehuurde passasiers dra nie.

'N Paar wenke

• Alle taxi-tariewe moet kontant in TT-dollars betaal word. Sommige bestuurders aanvaar Amerikaanse dollars, Kanadese dollars of euro's, maar dit gee u miskien nie 'n gunstige wisselkoers nie. Dit is goed om vooraf u tarief te vra. Betaal die kondukteur of die bestuurder in Maxi-taxi's as daar geen kondukteur is nie. Aflaai word nie verwag nie, behalwe vir lughawetaxi's. As u egter vrygewig voel, kan u 'n wenk gee as u wil. Taxibestuurders verskaf gewoonlik nie kwitansies nie.
• As u van die gewone aangewese roete af gaan (gewoonlik die hoofweg), moet u dit aan die taxibestuurder vertel voordat u op die taxi klim. Sommige wil dalk nie van die hoofweg af gaan nie weens misdaad of slegte paaie. As u dit nie vooraf in kennis stel nie, sal hulle u dalk op 'n nabye punt van u bestemming aflaai en dan moet u loop. Maxi-taxi's gaan gewoonlik nie van die aangewese roete af nie, maar sommige van hulle sal passasiers vra of 'n alternatiewe roete gevolg kan word as daar te veel verkeer is. As u twyfel of die maksimum u bestemming sal mis, vra die dirigent.
• Vermy om tydens spitstyd na 'n taxi of maksimum te soek (AM en PM, maar PM is erger). Die taxi-staanplekke is gewoonlik druk, en ander kan die taxi stop voor die taxi-staanplek. Die netto resultaat is dat die taxi vol is voordat hy die staanplek bereik, en die wag kan buitengewoon lank wees.
• Sommige motor- en taxibestuurders wil meer as die wettige aantal passasiers in die voertuig sit. Dit is 'n gevaarlike en onwettige gebruik, want daar is geen versekeringsdekking vir enige passasier as die maxi-taxi oorlaai is en in 'n ongeluk beland nie. Hou beleefd af of weet ten minste wat u waag.
• As u taxi of maksimum in 'n ongeluk betrokke is, moet u so gou as moontlik by die polisie aanmeld om u wettige regte te verseker. Taxibestuurders moet versekering dra vir alle passasiers. Polisieverslae kan persoonlik gedoen word by die polisiekantoor wat jurisdiksie het. Vra 'n plaaslike inwoner. Hulle sal weet. As u of iemand onmiddellik mediese hulp benodig, skakel 999 of 990.
• Sommige taxi-staanplekke sal vorentoe die taxi's van agter vol maak. Dit kom meer voor in stede en stadsdele.
• Druk 'n stopknop om 'n maxi-taxi te stop terwyl u daarop is (d.w.s. op u bestemming). Soms word dit nie geëtiketteer nie, maar volgens wet is dit nodig dat maksimum taxi's dit moet hê.
• Rook in openbare geboue is in stryd met die wet.

Met die bus

Busse word bestuur deur die Openbare Vervoer Diens Korporasie^{[dooie skakel]} (PTSC) besit deur die regering van Trinidad en Tobago. Busse en buskaartjies is beskikbaar by City Gate in Port-of-Spain, King's Wharf in San Fernando en verskeie ander terminale en bushaltes. 'N Kaartjie is nodig om in die bus te klim. Busbestuurders aanvaar nie kontant of kredietkaarte nie.

Met die veerboot

Daar is 'n plaaslike veerboot op die eiland Trinidad tussen die twee belangrikste stede van Port-of-Spain in die noorde en San Fernando in die suide. Die veerbootrit is ongeveer 45 minute tussen bestemmings en 'n enkele reis kos TT $ 15 (ongeveer US $ 2,50).

Met die motor

Motorhuur is algemeen beskikbaar en ry aan die linkerkant (Britse styl). Daar is verskeie maatskappye wat motors huur, insluitend internasionale kettings soos Budget en Hertz. Daar is ook plaaslike maatskappye soos Auto Rentals, Kalloo's en vele ander. Die beste is om 'n motor vooraf te bespreek. 'N Mens kan egter met aankoms 'n motor op die lughawe huur. Die nommerplate van huurmotors word gewoonlik aangedui met 'n 'R' (wat 'huur' beteken) as die eerste letter. Sommige privaat persone huur motors met borde aangedui met die letter "P" (wat "privaat" beteken), maar dit is onwettig en dit is beter om 'n motor met 'n "R" -plaat te huur.

Dit word egter algemeen gebruik dat misdadigers bestuurders van huurmotors teiken, aangesien baie inwoners blykbaar glo dat alle buitelanders ryk is. Dus stel al hoe meer motorhuurondernemings hul motors nou met 'P' in die hoop dat dit die feit dat die motor eintlik huur is, sal verdoesel.

Padtoestande en verkeer

Pasop vir bestuurders wat nie die wette van die pad volg nie. Hulle mag nie by rooi ligte stop nie en onaangekondigde draaie maak. As u net gewoond is aan bestuur aan die regterkant, moet u dit sterk oorweeg om glad nie te ry nie. Ry om aan die lewe te bly. Vermy dit as u die moontlikheid van onaangenaamheid voorsien, veral 'n onheilspellende voorval.

Spoedbeperkings geld (80 km / h op snelweë), maar word selde toegepas. Baie padtekens is oud en nie baie sigbaar nie en afstande word in kilometers aangedui. As u goed kan ry, is dit 'n prettige ervaring om veral laataand of vroegoggend die paaie te geniet. Vermy te vinnig op die hoofpaaie in die spitsverkeer of rondom die Queen's Park Savannah. Anders as dit, is die kans dat u afgetrek sal word langs niks.

Alhoewel u sal sien dat baie bestuurders dit doen, is dit in stryd met die wet om links te draai op rooi (gelykstaande aan 'n regs draai op rooi in lande met links bestuur, soos die Verenigde State). U-draaie is ook onwettig.

Veral taxi's en Maxi-taxi's is gekoppel aan baie ongelukke en verkeersdood. Hulle sal gereeld sonder waarskuwing stop om passasiers op te laai of af te laai, riskante maneuvers te voer en gewoonlik roekeloos te bestuur. Alhoewel dit onwettig kan wees, steur die polisie hulle blykbaar nie daaraan nie, behalwe vir af en toe steekproewe en padblokkades. Polisie-optrede waarby Maxi-taxi's en taxi's betrokke is, vind gewoonlik plaas as hulle ernstige verkeersprobleme veroorsaak, in welke geval dit nie ongewoon is dat die polisie en die stad of stad die Maxi-taxi's hervestig nie.

Mense parkeer ook hul voertuie in die middel van die pad waar daar geen skouer is nie. Wag totdat die teenoorgestelde baan skoon is, en gaan dan om die geparkeerde motor.

In meer bevolkte gebiede, soos die stede Port of Spain en San Fernando, moet u oplet vir voetgangers, want loopwandelings is die norm. Verkeerstekens vir voetgangersoorgang is min. Daarbenewens vereis hulle dat mense in die meeste gevalle op die knoppie moet druk. Die meeste mense steur hulle nie daaraan nie en wag net totdat die verkeer opruim, of hardloop oor die pad. Wees versigtig, want as u 'n voetganger tref, loop of nie, kan dit u in 'n moeiliker rigting laat beland as 'n motor.

Tyd en afstand

As u van plan is om na die ander kant van die eiland (Trinidad) te gaan, begin dan vroegtydig en laat die die hele dag met niks belangriks geskeduleer vir die laatmiddag nie. Alhoewel die eiland nie baie groot is nie, kan dit langer neem as u dink. Met die toeloop van tweedehandse motors uit Asië (plaaslik "buitelandse gebruikte" motors) en die groeiende ekonomie, besit meer mense motors as ooit tevore. Daarom is verkeersknope nie ongewoon nie, veral nie as u na Port of Spain gaan nie.

Vervoer tussen eilande

Daar is twee opsies om tussen Trinidad en Tobago te reis - per veerboot en per lug.

Om per vliegtuig te reis, kos TT $ 300 retour of TT $ 150 enkele reis per persoon. Daar is twaalf vlugte per dag. Vlugtyd is ongeveer 25 minute per rigting. Caribbean Airlines (http://www.caribbean-airlines.com) bedryf die diens.

Daar is twee soorte veerdienste - vinnig en konvensioneel.

Om met 'n vinnige veerboot te reis, kos TT $ 50 enkele reis en TT $ 100 retour. Vaartuie is die T&T Express en The T&T Spirit, wat albei deur die hawe-owerheid van Trinidad en Tobago besit word. Die reis duur ongeveer 2,75 uur. Die Express is die vinnigste van die twee skepe, maar die Spirit is nuwer en het beter fasiliteite.

Om met 'n konvensionele veerboot te reis, kos TT $ 37,50 enkele reis en TT $ 75 retour, maar die reis duur ongeveer 5½ uur. Vaartuie is die MF Panorama en Warrior Spirit.

Voertuie kan aan boord van die veerboot geneem word, maar dit hef 'n ander koste, afhangende van grootte en gewig. 'N Retoer vir 'n privaat motor kos TT $ 350. Dit sluit die koste van die bestuurder in. U sal waarskynlik nie 'n huurmotor op die veerboot kan neem nie, aangesien u voertuigregistrasiedokumente moet toon.

Slegs kaartjies vir reis op dieselfde dag kan by die veerbootterminale in Port of Spain en Scarborough gekoop word. Vir voorafkaartjies moet u kaartjies by sommige uitgesoekte reisagentskappe koop. In spitstye word kaartjies vinnig uitverkoop, veral vir voertuie. Vir veerbootskedules en reisagentskappe, sien die Havenowerheid webwerf.

Sien

Strande

Gewilde strande in Trinidad is Maracas, Tyrico, 10.783333-61.31 Blanchisseuse  , Las Cuevas, Toco, Mayaro, Chagville, Los Iros en Quinam. Die meeste strande aan die Noordkus is pragtig, met poeieragtige sand en helderblou water. Los Iros en Quinam is goed, maar Quinam se water kan bruin wees, hoofsaaklik as gevolg van sediment uit die orinoco-rivier in Suid-Amerika. Alhoewel Maracas en Tyrico nie te ver van mekaar af is nie, kan u nie van die een na die ander langs die strand loop nie.

Tobago se strande is uiters mooi. Gewilde strande in Tobago sluit in

• 11.15-60.8172 Duifpunt. (Oktober 2018 opgedateer)
• 11.283333-60.6833333 Engelsmanbaai. (Oktober 2018 opgedateer)
• Stoorbaai
• MT Irvine
• Bucco, Grange
• Kano-baai

Bucco Reef en die nylon swembad

Buccoo Reef is 'n natuurlike koraalrif aan die Noordkus van Tobago. Boottoere met 'n glasbodem is beskikbaar vanaf Pigeon Point en Store Bay. Die 11.1724-60.83934 Nylon swembad.   is 'n gebied met vlak water bo-op die rif. Die water is kristalhelder en lyk soos vislyn nylon, vandaar die naam. 'N Glasboottoer neem u daarheen en laat u bad.

Caroni Bird Sanctuary

Geleë in die 10.591389-61.4552785 Caroni Moeras. (Oktober 2018 opgedateer), dit is 'n moet vir voëlkykers. Verskeie inheemse voëlspesies maak nes in die voëlreservaat, waaronder een van die nasionale voëls - die Scarlet Ibis (Eudocimus ruber). Toere vind gewoonlik gedurende skemer plaas wanneer die Scarlet Ibis na die moeras terugkeer om te slaap. Dit is ook 'n goeie idee om dik klere (jeans en 'n baadjie / trui) aan te trek, aangesien die muskiete in die voëlreservaat besonder venynig is en die dikste klere kan byt.

Divali en die Divali Nagar

Die Hindu-ligfees, Divali, word in die meeste gebiede in Trinidad en enkele gebiede in Tobago gevier. Elke jaar gedurende een nag in Oktober-November word klein olielampe genaamd deyas aan die binne- en buitekant van huise en op openbare plekke aangesteek. Daarbenewens is daar 'n viering en fees genaamd die Divali Nagar, waar Indiese liedjies, dans, toneelstukke en ander kulturele items uitgestal word. Die Divali Nagar vind plaas by die 10.5349729-61.41144866 Divali Nagar-webwerf. (Oktober 2018 opgedateer) in Chaguanas, Trinidad. Baie borgskappe het kabinette ingerig en daar is selfs 'n Indiese restaurant in die buitelug waar u Indiese kos kan koop, insluitend roti. Divali is 'n openbare vakansiedag in Trinidad en Tobago.

Emperor Valley Zoo (Port of Spain) en die Botaniese Tuine

Die 10.674204-61.5187467 Emperor Valley dieretuin. (Oktober 2018 opgedateer), Die enigste dieretuin van Trinidad en Tobago, bevat 'n wye verskeidenheid tropiese spesies, waaronder leeus, tiere, ape, voëls en visse. Dit is in die hoofstad, Port of Spain. Die Botaniese Tuine bevat baie soorte plante en is reg langs die dieretuin, naby die president se huis.

Fort George (Tobago)

Tobago se Fort George bied 'n blik op Tobago se koloniale geskiedenis en 'n pragtige uitsig oor die see.

Bokwedrenne (Tobago)

Bokwedrenne op Paasdinsdag in Tobago is 'n tradisie wat dateer uit 1925. Dit is ongelooflik dat dit baie ooreenkomste het met perdewedrenne, waar eienaars, stalle en afrigters is.

TTPBA Groot wedloop

Gedurende Augustus (hoofsaaklik in die tweede of laaste naweek van Augustus) is daar 'n jaarlikse kragbootwedren van Trinidad na Tobago, genaamd die Groot wedloop.[1]. Dit begin by Pier 1 in Chaguaramas, Trinidad en eindig by Store Bay in Tobago. Daar is plekke om die bote lewendig te sien jaag (soos Maracasbaai). Die bote ry gewoonlik rondom die Noordwes-skiereiland, dan langs die noordkus en dan 'n bylyn na Tobago. Die eerste deelnemers eindig gewoonlik oor 'n uur.

La Brea Pitch Lake

Die 10.2325-61.6280568 La Brea Pitch Lake. (Oktober 2018 opgedateer) is die wêreld se grootste natuurlike asfaltreservoir. Kommersiële uitgrawing van asfalt het egter aansienlik verlangsaam, aangesien ander meer koste-effektiewe materiale beskikbaar is vir die konstruksie van paaie. Die pikmeer is nou hoofsaaklik 'n toeristebestemming. Baie gaan bad in die waters, wat swael bevat, wat volgens sommige genesende eienskappe het.

Leerskilpaaie op Mathura-strand

Die Leatherback seeskilpaaie (Dermochelys coriacea) kan op die Mathura-strand van Trinidad gesien word. Elke jaar rondom Paasfees keer die skilpaaie terug na Trinidad om hul eiers te lê. Toere is beskikbaar by bewaringsgroepe. Daar is ook vrywilligersgeleenthede beskikbaar. Aangesien die skilpaaie 'n bedreigde spesie is, is dit onwettig om die skilpaaie of die eiers dood te maak. Daarom moet u sorgvuldig en versigtig wees om die skilpaaie nie te versteur nie.

Tobago-erfenisfees

Die Tobago erfenisfees vind elke jaar gedurende die laaste week in Julie en die eerste week in Augustus plaas. Dit is 'n twee weke lange vertoning van Tobagoanse dans, musiek, storievertelling, kultuur en kos. Dit is 'n pronkstuk in die tradisies van Tobago wat al lank bestaan ​​en 'n unieke blik op die lewenswyse van die eiland.

Trinidad se noordkus (Toco / Matelot / Grand Riviere)

Die noordkus van Trinidad is pragtig en grotendeels ongerep. Daar is baie skilderagtige strande en onontwikkelde gebiede. Aan die noordoostelike punt van die eiland is die dorpie Toco. Die Noord-Ooste-wind waai letterlik 24 uur per dag, en die ontspanning op die strand kan nogal ontspannend wees.

Doen

Voor-Lenten Karnaval

Karnaval. Die jaarlikse fees is een van die bekendste dinge in Trinidad en Tobago. Daar is baie pragtige danse en baie feesvieringe rondom hierdie tyd. Elke jaar op die Sondag, Maandag en Dinsdag voor Aswoensdag en die seisoen van die vastyd, paradeer duisende gekleurde onthullers op straat in 'n jaarlikse straatpartytjie genaamd 'The Greatest Show On Earth'. Hulle word begelei deur musiek van staalbande, met calypso- en soca-musiek wat op groot luidsprekers op groot vragmotors gedra word. In die opbou van die tweedaagse karnavalviering is daar ander aktiwiteite, waaronder Calypso-tente (binnenshuise calypso-konserte), die "Panorama" -staalbandkompetisie, Soca-monarg, Chutney Soca-monarg en opelugpartytjies genaamd fetes. Karnaval Maandag en Dinsdag is nie amptelike openbare vakansiedae nie, maar baie besighede en alle skole sluit in elk geval vir die twee dae. Karnaval is afkomstig van die Franse tradisies wat deur Afrika-slawe aangeneem is.
Karnaval is 'n "Kyk" en "Doen" aktiwiteit. 'N Mens kan net langs die pad staan ​​en die parade van die bands sien, of eintlik deelneem en' mas speel '. Baie toeriste neem deel aan Carnival bands. Om vroegtydig te bespreek is 'n moet, aangesien die spasies vinnig vol raak. Om in vorm te kom is ook 'n moet, want baie kostuums is baie skraal. Sommige inwoners se fisieke fiksheidsdoelwitte is in werklikheid rondom Carnival. (Oktober 2018 opgedateer)

Naglewe

Daar is 'n hele paar nagklubs in Trinidad en Tobago, veral in die Chaguaramas-omgewing, soos Pier 1, Anchorage, Base en MoBS2. Sommige baie gewilde nagklubs is Club Zen en 51 Degrees Lounge in Port of Spain en Sting-nagklub in La Romaine, asook Space la Nouba en Prive, albei ook in La Romaine. As gevolg van die misdaadsituasie, moet u egter versigtig wees en dit is 'n goeie idee om eerder by 'n groep te wees as alleen.

Gholf

'N Mens kan gholf speel op verskeie gholfbane in Trinidad en Tobago. Sommige bane is 9 gate en ander 18 gate. Twee gewilde gholfbane is die St. Andrews 'gholfbaan [2] in Maraval (net buite Port of Spain) en die Mt. Irvine-gholfbaan in Tobago.

Praat

Engels is die amptelike taal. Woorde word met Britse spellings gespel (bv. Kleur, program, band). Engelse Kreools (alhoewel dit nie met die naam deur die plaaslike bevolking verwys word nie) word baie gereeld gebruik vir informele kommunikasie onder plaaslike inwoners. Dit is meestal 'n mondelinge taal en word selde geskryf (en dan net deur ad-lib). 'N Trinidadiese woordeboek, "Cote Ci Cote La", kan gevind word by een van die vele boekwinkels in die land en is 'n uitstekende aandenking om u vakansie na Trinidad en Tobago te onthou. Hier is 'n voorbeeld van net een van die baie woorde wat radikaal verskillende betekenisse van Amerikaans Engels het:

kalk ; bedoel om saam met jou vriende in die openbaar te kuier

Ook word Hindi, Frans (meestal Creools of Patois), Spaans en Chinees gehoor. Dit lyk soms asof u in 'n land is wat slegs 'n vreemde taal praat. Aangesien bykans almal standaard (Britse) Engels ken, hoef u dit nie te vra nie. Natuurlik, as iemand skielik in standaard Engels begin praat - neem kennis. Hulle praat heel moontlik met jou!

Koop

Geld

Wisselkoerse vir Trinidad en Tobago dollar Vanaf Januarie 2020: VS $ 1 ≈ TT $ 6,8 € 1 ≈ TT $ 7,6 Verenigde Koninkryk £ 1 ≈ TT $ 8,9 Kanadese $ 1 ≈ TT $ 5,2 Wisselkoerse wissel. Huidige tariewe vir hierdie en ander geldeenhede is beskikbaar vanaf XE.com

Die geldeenheid is die Trinidad en Tobago dollar, aangedui "TT $"(ISO-geldeenheidskode: TTD), ook bekend as die "TT" (uitgespreek teetee). Amerikaanse dollars word ook algemeen aanvaar.

Visa en MasterCards word by baie winkels aanvaar. American Express, Diners 'Club, Discover, JCB en ander word slegs op 'n paar luukse plekke aanvaar. OTM (ABM) -kaarte wat Cirrus- en Plus-netwerke gebruik, sal in plaaslike kitsbanke werk en u in staat stel om onttrekkings in TT-dollars te maak, omgeskakel na u eie geldeenheid. Die wisselkoers by onttrekking van die kitsbank is effens beter as by kontantruil. Daar is ook kitsbanke op 'n paar plekke, soos winkelsentrums wat Amerikaanse dollars sal uitdeel. Die meeste kitsbanke in Trinidad en Tobago aanvaar nie PIN's langer as vier syfers nie. Oorweeg dit om na vier syfers te verander voordat u reis. Republiek Bank-kitsbanke (Blue Machines) aanvaar PIN-kode met ses syfers.

Kantel

Kantel was nie 'n gebruik nie, maar het meer algemeen geword. Sommige restaurante, veral dié in hotelle of diegene wat buitelandse toeriste bedien, verwag 'n fooitjie. Die meeste doen dit nie. Slegs lughawe-taxi's verwag 'n fooi. Plaaslike taxi's nie.

Inkopies

Pryse in winkels en winkels word gewoonlik vertoon en verander nie volgens die kliënt nie. Buiteleweverkopers is egter 'n ander verhaal: hulle sal waarskynlik 'n ander, hoër prys vir 'n buitelander vra as vir 'n plaaslike inwoner. Sommige sal selfs in Amerikaanse dollars betaling voorstel of eis. U kan probeer onderhandel, of net grinnik en dra.

Die meeste artikels behalwe benodigdhede en sekere ander items wat nie gegradeer is nie, lok belasting op toegevoegde waarde (BTW) teen 15%. Die belasting word ten tyde van die verkoping ingevorder.

Gewigte en afmetings

Gewigte en maatreëls is amptelik volgens metrieke, maar dit is nie ongewoon dat imperiale (Engelse) eenhede steeds gebruik word nie. Alhoewel die meeste ander eenhede dieselfde is, is die imperiale liter groter teen 4.546 L as die Amerikaanse liter slegs 3.785 L.

Eet

Vanweë die uiteenlopende agtergrond het Trinidad en Tobago uitstekende en uiteenlopende kosopsies. Die Indiese wortels het veral tot die beste voedsel in enige land ter wêreld toegevoeg. As u nie warm en gekruide kos kan verdra nie, moet u die kok of kelner vooraf daarvan in kennis stel.

Gewild deur T&T is lekker rotis, Indiese platbrode gevul met channa (kekerertjiekerrie), gewoonlik vleis, en ander voorwerpe (insluitende groenbone, pampoen en mango's). Daar is verskillende soorte roti beskikbaar in Trinidad - sada, wat soortgelyk is aan pita of naan; dhalpouri, wat gevul is met gemaalde geel gesplete ertjies; en hou stil, 'n hartlike brood met 'n syagtige tekstuur. Goedkoop ontbyt van sada roti en 'choka' - groente van alle soorte is beskikbaar vir ongeveer TT $ 3-4. Maar die gewildste vinnige versnapering is 'n 'dubbelspel'. Een bekende plek is 'George Doubles' in Woodbrook buite die immer bekende 'Brooklyn Bar'. Dubbel is kerrie-kekerertjies wat in twee stukke gebraaide brood toegemaak word, en bedien met die keuse van speserye. Dit is 'n snack langs die pad, oral beskikbaar teen ongeveer TT $ 2- $ 4. "Ali's Doubles" is a chain that sells doubles. There are a few locations around Trinidad, mostly in San Fernando. Eat hot.

Phoulourie is another popular roadside snack. Phoulourie are small balls, made of fried ground chick peas and flour. It and other popular snack foods like roast corn, cow heel soup, aloo pies (fried potato pies) and saheena (spinach dipped in batter and fried), are often available from street vendors, especially around the Savannah.

Trinidad and Tobago is also famous for its mouth watering callaloo – a soup made from green leafy vegetables, similar to spinach or kale, sometimes with crab or pigtail added (vegetarians beware!). Callalloo is not the most appetizing of foods to look at, but it is certainly worth a try.

Another must try in T&T is the famous Bake and Shark or Shark 'n Bake. Most easily obtained along the north coast near Maracas Bay, pieces of shark are deep fried, served in cut fried bread called "fried bake", and accompanied by various sauces, most popular of which is a puree of shadow beni (a herb similar to cilantro.)

Another popular food traditionally associated with beach limes is pelau, usually accompanied with coleslaw. Pelau, is not, however, available for purchase at the beach, although you may be able to find it in a creole restaurant.

If you have a sweet tooth, there are many local sweets and candies to sample like Toolum, Tambran Ball, Guava Cheese, Sugar Cake, Paw Paw Ball, Benna Ball, Jub Jub, Kurma, Barfi, Ladoo, Peera. Many of these will be available on the "lookout" on the way to Maracas Beach, and prepackaged in some supermarkets.

A few American-style fast food chains are available including KFC, Subway, Pizza Hut and Burger King. There are also a few franchised eat-in restaurants such as TGI Friday's and Ruby Tuesday. There are a few local chains such as Royal Castle (chicken and chips), and Chicken Unlimited. These local fried chicken chains have a different taste from American or European fried chicken chains. Pizza Boys and Mario's are two popular local Pizza chains. The pizza is quite different from American or Italian pizza.

Chinese food is available in many places from Chinese takeout stores. It is Cantonese style but the spices are uniquely Trinidadian.

Barbecued chicken is another popular Trinbagonian dish. It is similar to American barbecue, but with local spices. There are roadside barbecue stands that sell a box of barbecued chicken (quarter) with fries, salad and garlic bread. One popular place is The Barbecue Hut which is an open air tent where patrons will buy barbecue to sit down and eat or take away. It is on the South Trunk Road in La Romaine, South Trinidad close to the Gulf City mall. Be aware that it is run by Muslims therefore no alcohol is allowed on the compound.

The condiments available in Trinbagonian restaurants are ketchup, plain mustard, garlic sauce, shadon-beni sauce (a cilantro-like herb), hot pepper and many more depending on location. Soy sauce is available in Chinese restaurants, along with an extremely hot Chinese style pepper sauce. If taking hot pepper as a condiment, be warned! It is extremely hot! You may see locals putting a lot of pepper on their food, but remember they have been eating it for years so they are accustomed to it. It is best to try a little and if you feel comfortable add more. If in doubt, avoid it. Salt and black pepper are generally not available as in American restaurants.

Local bakeries sell pastries such as beef and chicken pies and currant rolls. They also sell hops bread which are rolls made with white or whole wheat flour. Hops bread is best eaten hot and can be enjoyed with cheese or butter for a quick snack.

Grocery shopping

Grocery stores sell a wide variety of packaged goods and produce. However, for really fresh produce, one can go to the market. Towns usually have a market day (or days) where sellers, usually local farmers, will bring their produce to sell. The Government publishes prices for produce, however one may be able to bargain to get a better price. Again, while weights and measures are officially in Metric, most sellers use imperial units.

Halal food is readily available most food outlets usually have signs. Fast food outlets such as KFC and McDonald's also serve halal food. Many supermarkets also carry a wide range of halal fresh and processed meats as well.

Drink

Non-alcoholic

The most refreshing drink on a hot sunny day is a large glass of a very cold delicious Mauby, a beverage made with the bark of the mauby tree and spices, such as anise and cinnamon. It is very refreshing and cooling, but may be an acquired taste, since it has a bitter aftertaste.

Cold soft jelly coconut water -- available along the roadsides -- costs about TT$3-4. And do try all the many varied local fruit juices, readily available chilled in most groceries.

Sorrel is a popular drink available during Christmas time. It is made from the boiled flowers of the Roselle (hibiscus sabdariffa) plant. It is red in colour and best enjoyed cold. It also has nutritious benefits.

Soft drinks are sweetened with cane sugar, rather than high fructose corn syrup as is the common practice in North America. This gives soft drinks a different taste, which some argue is better.

Malta is a popular drink, made from malt and hops and available from local bars, restaurants and supermarkets. It is high calorie and full of b vitamins, and best enjoyed ice cold.

Alcoholic drinks

Rum

Being a former sugar cane colony, Trinidad and Tobago is famous for its rum. Popular brands of rum are Black Label and Vat 19 by Fernandes and White Oak, Old Oak by Angostura. Some bars will allow you to buy individual rum drinks either straight with or without a chaser, or mixed. Some bars will allow you to purchase a whole bottle of rum, or a "half" which is equivalent to half a bottle. Some bars will sell a "nip" which is less than half. One can also purchase bottles of rum in stores and at duty free stores at the airport to carry home. Puncheon rum is a stronger type of rum (no less than 75% alcohol). It is not quite like moonshine but definitely stronger than regular rum. In fact it may not be legal to take it back with you. However it is legal in Trinidad and Tobago and is available from many local bars.

Beer

Beer is available and quite popular. The two most popular brands of beer are Carib and Stag, which are brewed locally. Additionally, some imported beer such as Miller is available. Other malt liquor drinks are available, brewed locally, such as Smirnoff Ice, and various stouts (Mackeson, Guinness Export, etc.) There are no microbreweries in Trinidad, and beer-lovers may find the local beers not to their taste. However, a few bars do import a wider variety of beers. Of particular note is the All Out bar at the Queen's Park Oval cricket ground in Port of Spain (94 Tragarete Road), where you will find a reasonable selection of English ales on draft, sold by the pint.

Wine and other spirits

Wine, vodka, tequila and other spirits are usually imported. There are no wineries in Trinidad and Tobago, as the tropical climate is not conducive to the growing of grapes. Many restaurants will serve a range of imported wines, however, and wine bars, such as More Vino in Woodbrook have opened in the past few years.

Laws related to alcohol

Not surprisingly, drinking alcohol in public is not frowned upon in Trinidad and Tobago. It islegal to drink alcohol in public. Public drunkenness may get you arrested only if you engage in disorderly conduct. Also the legal drinking age is 18 yrs. However, during election day, sale of alcohol is prohibited and must not be overtly displayed.

Slaap

There are a wide variety of lodging options. There are major hotels such as Crowne Plaza, Hyatt, and the Hilton. There are also smaller guest houses, particularly in Tobago and beach houses at the coasts (especially the East coast). Rates vary. On Trinidad, many cities and towns of limited interest to the typical tourist do not have any official accommodations. Staying with locals may be the only option. However, Trinidad has developed a sporting and cultural infrastructure being multi cultural with different religious denominations and can even boast of having world class facilities for swimming, cycling, football, cricket, netball and the arts. For persons or groups of persons willing to experience or connect with similar groups at competitive rates, guest houses such as The Little Inn and the Miracle Healing cater for these niches.

Leer

• University of the West Indies St. Augustine campus
• University of the Southern Caribbean. There is also the
• University of Trinidad and Tobago
• Other smaller colleges offer external degrees and diplomas from foreign institutions such as the University of London and City and Guilds of London.

Be careful where you park. High end hotels like the Nornandie has reported a drastic increase in vehicular break in. One was reported while the secured car park was almost empty and two security guards was on duty.

Work

Tourist visas do not permit employment. In order to work, one must obtain a work permit for the job and there must be no suitably qualified nationals to fill the job. In addition, to pay taxes, one needs to apply for a BIR file number (used like a social security number) and a PAYE number. One must file tax returns every year if taxes are owed, and pay those taxes.

Bly veilig

Trinidad and Tobago has been known for its increasingly high murder rate although this is associated with isolated areas of the country. The capital Port of Spain, is relatively safe but as with all major cities around the world there are depressed areas which are not safe for tourists. East Port of Spain, areas east of Charlotte Street, become increasingly unsafe and should be avoided as well as Belmont, Morvant and Laventille. The city is known for is vibrant night life with many restaurants, bars, lounges and clubs. It is recommended that you travel with companions at night time and avoid wandering into any side streets. Hotels can provide guidance to assist you. Tobago on the other hand is relatively safe and more tourist friendly.

In previous years crime tended to peak in the Carnival (January-March) and around Christmas (October-December) seasons, but crime activity was year round, but this has now drastically decreased due to the new change in government. But it is still best to exercise some caution at night time, while in Trinidad and Tobago.

For extended stays, register yourself at your country's nearest diplomatic mission. They can provide assistance to their citizens. A listing of diplomatic missions in Trinidad and Tobago is available on the Trinidad and Tobago Government's webwerf.

In an emergency dial 999 from any telephone for the police. Dial 990 for the fire department and 811 for an ambulance. These calls are free of charge from any telephone, including payphones (no coins or cards required). Unlike countries that have reliable police emergency assistance, when dialing "999" in an emergency the police do not always answer the call or show up when assistance is needed.

The islands are in an earthquake zone, though serious quakes are extremely rare.

Bly gesond

The Tobago Tourist Board boasts that "the wildlife in Tobago won't kill you", which is mostly true. The islands do have mosquitoes and isolated cases of dengue fever have been reported. Die tap water is generally safe to drink, though many visitors prefer bottled water because the public water often has a strong chlorine taste. Use your best judgement if in an area where homes collect rain water from the roof, but very few problems are reported.

The adult HIV/AIDS prevalence at 3.0% of 1 in 33 adults, which is 5 times higher than the USA. The best advice is to use caution and use protection if engaging in sexual activity. Condoms are available from pharmacies to help prevent the spread of AIDS and other STD's.

If you need prescription medication, it is best to bring enough with you for the duration of your trip. There is no guarantee that what you need will be available. American OTC drugs are often available in many pharmacies, however, don't expect everything to be available. They may also be under different names whether American or European market names.

Healthcare

Public healthcare is free to everyone in Trinidad and Tobago and is paid for by the Government and taxpayers. Healthcare services are offered on a walk-in basis. There are a few major hospitals throughout the country as well as smaller health centers and clinics located regionally. These can be found on the Ministry of Health'swebwerf. The public health facilities are way below the standard of what can be found in developed countries. Industrial action (strikes and sickouts) by doctors and nurses happen from time to time, and some healthcare facilities are overcrowded and understaffed, with older equipment and medicines. As an alternative there are also private healthcare facilities that offer healthcare services. Prices will vary and can be quite expensive. Private doctors are also available on an appointment basis.

Public ambulance services are available to everyone by dialing 990. This service is operated by the fire department. However these may prove to be unreliable since ambulances are limited and fire stations are often far away. Private ambulance services are available. They are generally more reliable but are not free. In an emergency it may be better to arrange one's own transportation to a healthcare facility.

Respek

It's a good idea to greet a stranger before asking him or her a question. It's a better idea to avoid strangers when not in the company of others. There is no nude or topless bathing anywhere in Trinidad and Tobago.

Many Trinbagonians like to discuss sports. Being a former British colony, these discussions usually centre mostly around cricket and football (soccer).

In Trinidad and Tobago, many of the world's great religions are well represented. Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Baha'i are popular. Judaism is not very popular and is practised mostly among expatriates. Atheism and agnosticism are not widespread although many people will hold agnostic beliefs without being openly agnostic.

Although Trinidad has a large Indian Hindu community, there are no taboos that Westerners would have a difficult time getting used to. The cow is not so sacred as to prohibit eating beef or wearing leather although Hindus do not eat beef. (A few ultra-conservative Hindus may take exception to all this, but they are very, very few in number.)

Trinidadians can be extremely friendly and hospitable -- especially with guests who share a common religion with them. Be sure to bring small gifts to show your appreciation, as some visitors who had no intention of visiting or staying with locals end up doing so anyway.

Some homes (including a few guest houses) in rural areas are not connected to any underground water mains. However, they may still have running water from a large, round, black outdoor water tank. If staying in such a place, be sure to conserve water -- especially in the dry season (or year-round if it doesn't collect rainwater from the roof). If the tanks run dry, water trucks for refills may be available. However, even underground piped water may be rationed during the dry season. In short, if you are not staying in a major hotel, ask about the water situation.

Verbind

Trinidad's international area code is 868 under the North American Numbering Plan. From the U.S. and Canada, it's no different than calling other states and provinces (1 868), but costs more. Its top level domain is .tt and its ITU callsign prefixes are 9Y en 9Z.

The telecommunications authority

All telecommunications in Trinidad and Tobago are now under the authority of the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT). All telecommunications and broadcasting licenses and franchises in Trinidad and Tobago are obtained from and administered by TATT. Complaints about telecommunications service providers can also be made to them.

Landline telephones

Landline telephones are available in larger hotels but may be unavailable in guest rooms of smaller guest houses. The telephone company is Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago, which is jointly owned by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago and Cable and Wireless. Local calls incur toll charges, however, calls in the same area code and telephone exchange are billed at a flat rate for the whole call. Hotels, of course, may charge more if you use their telephones. There are calling cafes around the country. For visitors who want to make international calls, it might be a good idea to use calling cafes.

Mobile telephones

Trinidad and Tobago has two active operating mobile telephone carriers - bmobile en Digicel. They both operate under the GSM standard, with bmobile using the 1800MHz frequency band, and Digicel using the 850MHz and 1900MHz frequency bands. There are roaming agreements with GSM carriers such as AT&T (ex Cingular) in the US, however the cost to roam may be prohibitive and calling within Trinidad may incur international toll charges. One can purchase a prepaid SIM card and GSM phone from Digicel or bmobile stores for as little as TT$100 and use that card in an unlocked GSM phone for the duration of their stay. You can also purchase a phone with SIM for that price. CDMA (Verizon) phones will work in Trinidad and Tobago. They will appear to be active due to TSTT's EVDO data only network, but you can make or receive calls on the CDMA network.

Payphones

Pay phones are a hit or miss in Trinidad. Some phones may be vandalized, full and in need of maintenance or simply not working. If you are lucky enough to find a working payphone, you can use either 25 cent coins or calling cards with an 800 number to access them. Some phones also accept phonecards which are pre-paid with a magnetic stripe. Insert the card and make your call. Some phones in hotels and at the airport allow the use of foreign calling cards. Calls to local 800 numbers, 999 and 990 are free.

Internet access

Internet cafés offer Internet access on public terminals at an hourly rate usually from TT$1 to TT$10.

Dialup access is available from TSTT and other independent ISP's. There are monthly plans and pay as you go access. Pay as you go service is available through the 619-EASY service for TT$0.75 per minute. Roaming with foreign ISP accounts is available through an agreement between TSTT and IPASS, inc.

Broadband internet options in Trinidad are available. Two major companies that provide these serives are TSTT (blink) and FLOW (Columbus Communications.)

Wi-Fi access is available in a few places such as Piarco airport, Movie Towne and select hotels and restaurants. It is free of charge right now but this is subject to change. EVDO and EDGE broadband access are also available, but may require contracts and a service commitment. Some hotels and guest houses provide free high speed internet. Always inquire if you don't see it listed on their web site, as it may have been added recently.

There are other options including fixed wireless, DSL, cable modem (only in a few areas) and satellite but these are generally not available to touriststouristshort term stay.

A good discussion of Trinidad and Tobago WiFi options is available at the TTCSwebwerf.

Postal facilities

The postal service is run by the Trinidad and Tobago Postal Corporation, TTPost. Postal rates are available on the TTPost website. Post offices are located close to the center of town in many places with red drop-off boxes in some places. Thanks to restructuring of the postal service, TTPost has become comparable to the postal service in many developed countries and is generally reliable. Additionally, other services such as US visa fee payment, bill payment and the purchase of inter island ferry tickets are available from TTPost.

Two way radio

Amateur radio

Ham radio tourism and DXpeditions are very risky in Trinidad and Tobago, mostly because of the difficulty in importing equipment. Please see the nite about importing equipment below.

The internationally allocated ITU prefixes in Trinidad and Tobago are 9Y and 9Z.

In order to operate an Amateur Radio Station in Trinidad and Tobago, one needs a license. If one's country of citizenship is a signatory to the IARP agreement and one holds a license equivalent to US General class (Novice and US Technician licenses are excluded) in that country, one can simply operate with 9y4/home callsign. For example, if your home callsign is W1ZZZ, you operate using 9Y4/W1ZZZ.

Otherwise one will need to apply for a license at TATT. The following are needed:

• Photo ID and photocopy (passport)
• Original and copy of certificate(s) showing a pass in an amateur radio exam, in English or accompanied by an English translation.
• Original and copy of your home amateur radio license, in English, or accompanied by an English translation.
• Form L-2 from TATT website, filled out and photocopied
• TT$20 application fee and TT$100 license fee

Appear in person at the TATT office at 76 Boundary Road, San Juan, Trinidad to apply. Processing time varies. If you want to have the license arranged in advance, it is better to contact the Trinidad and Tobago Amateur Radio Society TTARS[3]^{[dooie skakel]} and they can assist you. Foreigners will be granted 9Y4/homecall for the duration of their stay.

It is at the discretion of the Technical officer issuing your license, but generally a license equivalent to US General class and above (or its equivalent) gets full privileges including HF. Technician gets privileges above 30MHz only. In some cases they may deny Novice or Technician class amateurs altogether.

Importing equipment

Importing equipment can be painless and easy or it can be a long, drawn out bureaucratic process. The difficulty of importing ham radio equipment has caused many tourists to simply forget about doing any ham radio activities in Trinidad and Tobago. It is best to operate at a local's station if you can.

You will need to have the equipment type approved by TATT. There is a form on their website. Call them in advance. One should also get a receipt showing the value of one's equipment.

When you go through customs and they search your bags, the customs officer will ask about the ham radio equipment if they see it. You should tell them what it is and show them your license. They will tell you that you need to pay a bond equal to the value of the equipment and you will retrieve it before you leave. Otherwise they will probably seize your equipment and there is no guarantee that you'll get it back. Sometimes you'll just get lucky and they'll tell you to walk through. Sometimes they'll let you go with it but charge 20% customs duty. The law says that ham radio equipment is duty free for nationals. It's a gamble. It is best to not have your radio in the original boxes as this will more likely encourage customs officers to charge you a bond or duty.

You should carry as much of your equipment in your carry-on luggage as possible. Incidents of theft from checked luggage, while not very frequent, do happen.

Repeaters and local frequencies

There are a few local repeaters that you can say hello on. Those are:

• 147.930MHz -600kHz 9Y4TT (North)
• 146.940MHz -600kHz 9Y4TT (Central/South)
• 147.760MHz -600kHz 9Y4TT (Tobago)
• 146.100MHz 600kHz 9Y4NG (Central/South)
• 147.705MHz -600kHz 9Y4TTL (North)

In addition 146.520MHz is often monitored as a simplex channel. In the South (San Fernando) 146.550MHz is monitored and there is also an echolink node run by 9Y4NG on that frequency.

The local custom for a general call on the repeater is to say, "QRZ? This is , is anyone on frequency?"

CB

Citizens Band Radio (CB) is not licensed for use in Trinidad and Tobago. However, changes to the laws by the Telecommunications Authority have indicated that CB will be licensed and legal soon in Trinidad. However, the CB prohibition did not stop many locals from purchasing and using CB's. As a tourist you may not be so lucky. It is best to not carry any CB radios into Trinidad. They will most likely be seized by customs.

Personal radio services (FRS, GMRS, MURS, PMR446)

These are not licensed for use in Trinidad and Tobago. The radios may be seized by customs. Best to leave them at home. It is also illegal to use these within the territorial waters of Trinidad and Tobago. This means that if you are on a cruise ship or other vessel docked in TT waters, leave the FRS/GMRS/MURS/PMR446 radios off and do not transmit. Other licensed services use those frequencies and you may interfere with them.

Marine radios

Provided your radios are part of your boat's equipment and licensed by your home country, you should not have any issues bringing these in. Bringing these in other than installed in boats could result in them being seized.

Broadcast radio and TV

Radio

Thanks to the liberalization of the telecommunications market, there are now many radio stations on the FM band. Most of the stations play music, with Indian music and calypso/soca being popular.

TV

There are some local TV stations, the major one being TV6 on Channels 6 and 18. Most of them carry local programming, but TV6 carries American series, sitcoms and soap operas. Some stations are cable only whereas others are low power so they are only available regionally. Gayelle The Channel on Channels 23 and 27 is a 100% local television station that can give visitors to Trinidad and Tobago an interesting and entertaining insight into local life and culture. Other local channels include; NCC 4, Synergy TV, Trinity Television and the Islamic Channel.

Cable television is also available. Most major American networks are available on cable including CBS, NBC and ABC. Cable TV is available at hotels and guest houses.

Satellite TV from DirecTV Latin America is also available, but their offerings are not as good as cable and they tend to feature more Spanish language programming.

Big dish satellite TV is also available.