Latest advice, 18 Feb 2016

Trinidad and Tobago is experiencing ongoing transmission of the mosquito-borne Zika virus. All travellers should protect themselves from mosquito bites. Given possible transmission of the disease to unborn babies, and taking a very cautious approach, pregnant women should consider postponing travel to Trinidad and Tobago or talk to their doctor about implications

 

BB - Stable state, there is a medium HSE risk. Worksite risk is deemed to be low. The number of road traffic accidents is below the european average. There are consistent criminal acts against tourists.The country scores 85/175 on the corruption perceptions index with a score of -0.3 on corruption control.(Point estimates range from -2.5 to 2.5. Higher values correspond to better governance outcomes).

 

 

 

Genvisec advises that all travel can continue to Trinidad and Tobago. Certain categories of travellers will require enhanced security, such as luxury yacht owners/high profile businessman.

 

Crime

 

There is a high level of gang related violent crime in Trinidad, particularly in the inner city neighbourhoods east of Port of Spain’s city centre, Laventille, Morvant and Barataria. This crime tends to occur within local communities but can sometimes affect visitors.

 

If possible, avoid travel outside major populated areas late at night and before dawn. There have been incidents of violence and fatal accidents caused by erratic driving to and from Piarco International airport, particularly on the Beetham/Churchill Roosevelt highway and Lady Young Road.

 

There have also been incidents of violent theft by gangs who follow cars travelling from the airport, and attack their victims when they reach their destination. There have been a number of incidents where debris (eg broken down cars and masonry bricks) have been left on the highway in order to force cars to stop. Always drive with windows closed and doors locked.

 

Crimes including rape, assault, robbery and theft have taken place inside route taxis (which stop to pick up additional passengers) or maxi taxis. Make sure your taxi is not a route taxi before getting in. If possible, use hotel or pre-booked taxis and drivers who work with set fares. Private taxis in Trinidad and Tobago are unmetered and unmarked but can be identified by vehicle registration plates beginning with ‘H’.

 

You should maintain at least the same level of security awareness as you would in the UK and make sure your living accommodation is secure. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or wear eye-catching jewellery. Use a hotel safe to store valuables, money and passports. Don’t walk alone in deserted areas even in daylight. Take care when withdrawing money from ATMs.

 

There has been at least 1 instance of violent sexual assault in the Chaguaramas/Macqueripe area; this occurred in the middle of the day and close to a road.

 

Theft from vehicles and property occurs in parts of downtown Port of Spain and other towns/cities. Take particular care around the port area or downtown, especially at night, and avoid straying into areas affected by gang violence. There have been robberies, some involving firearms, at tourist sites, including Fort George, the Pitch Lake, Las Cuevas beach and at supermarket car parks, shopping malls, nightclubs, restaurants and business premises.

 

There is a higher risk from opportunistic crime during the festive period and carnival season.

 

Tobago

 

Most visits to Tobago are trouble free, but tourists (including British nationals) have been robbed. The inability of the authorities to catch and prosecute offenders remains a concern. Incidents of violent crime in Tobago are rare, but 2 German tourists were murdered on 22 November, on Minister’s Bay in the Bacolet area.

 

You should maintain at least the same level of security awareness as you would in the UK and make sure your living accommodation is secure. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or wear eye-catching jewellery. Use a hotel safe to store valuables, money and passports. Petty theft from cars is common.

 

Villas, particularly those in isolated areas, should have adequate security, including external security lighting, grilles and overnight security guards.

 

Don’t walk alone in deserted areas even in daylight. This includes beaches like Englishman’s Bay, King Peter’s bay and Bacolet beach unless you are in an organised group. Consult your tour operator if in doubt.

 

Be vigilant at all times and carry a mobile phone with roaming capability for use in emergency.

 

Road travel

 

The standard of driving in Trinidad and Tobago is mixed. High speed road accidents on the main highways in Trinidad often result in fatalities. Some roads are narrow and winding, and the surface of a low standard. Take care when driving.

 

If possible, avoid travel outside major populated areas after dark, especially routes to and from Piarco International airport. There have been incidents of violence and fatal accidents caused by local erratic driving standards to and from the airport, particularly on the Beetham/Churchill Roosevelt Highway.

 

If you don’t have a vehicle, use hotel taxis to get around, particularly after dark. 

 

Local laws and customs

Drug traffickers face severe penalties. The authorities make thorough checks.Pack all luggage yourself and don’t carry items for anyone else.

 

There are a number of laws which make certain homosexual acts illegal.

 

It is an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.

 

Health

In some areas of Trinidad and Tobago medical facilities can be limited. Private clinics are able to treat most ordinary problems, but medical evacuation to Miami or elsewhere may be necessary in more serious cases. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

 

Mosquito-borne dengue fever is endemic to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year.

 

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been confirmed in Trinidad and Tobago. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. For more details about this outbreak, see the website of the National Health Network and Centre.

 

The 2013 UNAIDS Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic estimated that around 14,000 adults aged 15 or over in Trinidad & Tobago were living with HIV; the prevalence percentage was estimated at around 1.5% of the adult population compared to the prevalence percentage in adults in the UK of around 0.25%. Exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS.

 

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 990 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

 

 

Earthquakes

 

Earthquakes are a potential threat and tremors are felt occasionally. 

 

Hurricanes

 

The hurricane season in Trinidad and Tobago normally runs from June to November. Monitor local and international weather updates from the National Hurricane Centre. See our Tropical cyclones page for advice about what to do if you are caught up in a hurricane.

 

Visas

 

Foreign nationals do not need a visa to visit Trinidad and Tobago. Visitors are generally given 90 days to remain in the country but extensions can be obtained from the Passport and Immigration Department, 67 Frederick Street, Port of Spain. 

 

Passport validity

 

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Trinidad and Tobago.

 

The Trinidad and Tobago authorities have confirmed they will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measures put in place in mid-2014.

 

Emergency Travel Documents

 

Emergency Travel Documents are accepted for entry, airside transit and exit from Trinidad and Tobago.

 

Yellow fever

 

Yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers who are arriving from, or have transited through, countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

 

Previous travel to countries affected by Ebola

 

Entry restrictions may apply if you ordinarily live in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, or you have visited any of those countries in the previous 28 days.