The 2 Caribbean islands comprising Trinidad and Tobago supply totally different experiences. Trinidad boasts a bigger measurement and full of life nightlife, interesting to vacationers searching for sightseeing and leisure. In distinction, Tobago exudes conventional Caribbean attraction, attracting these in search of a extra tranquil ambiance.
Whereas authorities journey advisories frequently spotlight potential dangers within the nation, most visits to Trinidad and Tobago stay trouble-free. It’s price noting that incidents of crime primarily have an effect on residents fairly than vacationers.
LATEST NEWS from Trinidad and Tobago:
March 8: Guests to Tobago not impacted by critical crimes
Previously six months, over 89,000 guests have arrived in Tobago and no serious crimes towards any of them have been reported.
The success is attributed to the women and men who work for the Tobago Police Division, particularly the Tourism-Oriented Policing Part (TOPS), for his or her “steadfast and strategic concentrated patrols.”
A press release launched said that “TOPS officers collaborate with the island’s tourism and hospitality stakeholders. They’ve even hosted crime prevention seminars and consultations, along with serving to their counterparts on the Scarborough Police Station and different items.”
Areas to Keep away from
Though crime has skilled a considerable discount in Trinidad and Tobago over the past six months, there are some hotspots vacationers ought to keep away from visiting, particularly at night time.
Don’t go to in Port of Spain: Laventille, Beetham, Sea Heaps, Cocorite, and the inside of Queens’ Park Savannah after darkish.
However, U.S. authorities personnel are forbidden to go to downtown Port of Spain, Fort George overlook, and all seashores at night time.
Official Journey Advisories
U.S. Journey Advisory – Stage 3: Rethink Journey
According to the U.S. government, homicide, theft, sexual assault, residence invasion, and kidnapping are examples of violent crimes that incessantly happen in Trinidad and Tobago.
Gang exercise is widespread, together with drug trafficking. Gang-related crimes make up a large portion of violent crimes.
Terrorist teams may goal “vacationer locations, transportation hubs, procuring malls, native authorities buildings, accommodations, golf equipment, eating places, locations of worship, parks, main sporting and cultural occasions, instructional establishments, airports, and different public areas.”
Canada Journey Advisory
The Canadian authorities additionally warns its residents concerning the risks of touring to Trinidad and Tobago. They are saying that crimes focusing on vacationers happen frequently, notably in Port of Spain.
Additionally they say that the variety of kidnappings for ransom has elevated since 2018. Cruise ship guests ought to train excessive warning when strolling round Port of Spain’s docks.
As well as, alternative crimes are extra frequent throughout the Tobago Jazz Pageant, the Christmas holidays, and the annual Carnival celebrations in February and March.
Widespread Scams
Be aware of these potential scams whereas touring to Trinidad and Tobago to make sure a easy and pleasant journey to the islands.
ATM scams: Be cautious of ATM card slot manipulation, the place your card could get caught. Keep away from accepting help from strangers and instantly cancel your playing cards once you can not extract them from the machine.
Bump and rob incidents: Be careful for thieves who stage minor accidents to lure drivers out of their autos, solely to rob them. It’s advisable to depart the world and search help elsewhere.
Smash and seize: Preserve valuables hidden when leaving them in parked automobiles.
Aggressive road distributors: Train warning when approached by road distributors providing overpriced merchandise. Politely decline if not .
Airport scams: There have been experiences of vacationers adopted from the airport to their lodging after which robbed. Use respected transportation firms similar to Uber and make a detour for those who suppose you might be being adopted.
Security Suggestions for Trinidad and Tobago
Take into account the next suggestions for enhanced security:
- Go for paid automotive parks each time potential.
- Solely make the most of approved taxis to return to your lodging.
- Keep away from strolling alone in remoted or poorly-lit areas.
- Carry solely small quantities of money.
- Chorus from accepting drinks from strangers and keep watch over your beverage. Guarantee all bottles are opened in entrance of you.
- Reasonable alcohol consumption to cut back vulnerability to theft.
- Go away worthwhile jewellery at residence to reduce the chance of theft.
- Journey in teams each time potential.
