MileHacker Logo
Resources & References

Resources & References

Trinidad And Tobago

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • Google Maps:

    Download offline maps of Tobago before your trip for navigation without an internet connection.

  • WhatsApp:

    Widely used by locals for communication with tour operators and businesses.

  • XE Currency:

    A currency converter app for quick exchange rate calculations.

  • Google Translate:

    Useful for understanding local signs or communicating specific needs.

  • NordVPN:

    Secure your internet connection while traveling with NordVPN.

Useful Websites

  • Trinidad and Tobago Tourism:

    Visittobago.gov.tt for attractions and events.

  • Ministry of National Security:

    Check Mns.gov.tt for visa and entry requirements.

  • Caribbean Airlines:

    The national carrier Caribbean-airlines.com for schedules and bookings.

  • Inter-Island Ferry Service:

    Check Ttitferry.com for ferry schedules and tickets.

  • Capital One Travel:

    Explore travel rewards cards like Capital One Travel for future trips.

Print Resources

Guidebooks

A general Caribbean guidebook includes Trinidad and Tobago. Look for reputable publishers.

History & Culture

'A Brief History of Trinidad and Tobago' by Gerard Besson for historical context.

Local Publications

Local newspapers (e.g., Newsday, Express) offer current events and cultural insights.

Emergency & Medical

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 999
  • Ambulance: 990
  • Fire: 990
  • Scarborough General Hospital is the main public hospital.

Consular Services

  • U.S. Embassy Port of Spain, Trinidad: +1-868-622-6371
  • UK High Commission Port of Spain, Trinidad: +1-868-350-0400
  • Contact your embassy for lost document assistance and replacements.
  • Report lost or stolen documents to local police immediately.

Further Exploration

Documentaries

  • Search for documentaries on Trinidad and Tobago's culture.
  • Explore Carnival celebrations or natural history films.
  • Films about Main Ridge Forest Reserve or Leatherback turtles.
  • Dive into the rich visual narratives.

Music & Art

  • Immerse yourself in Calypso music.
  • Experience the rhythms of Soca music.
  • Discover the unique sound of Steelpan music.
  • These genres central to island identity.

Online Communities

  • Join TripAdvisor forums for Tobago travel.
  • Explore Facebook groups for travel tips.
  • Ask questions and share experiences with other travelers.
  • A great place for community insights.

Important Travel Information

Natural Disaster Protocols

Hurricane Warnings

  • Follow instructions from local authorities.
  • Broadcasts on radio and TV for public safety.
  • Guidance from official channels during storms.
  • Stay informed and vigilant.

Hotel Guidelines

  • Hotel staff instructions are important.
  • Hotels often have specific evacuation plans.
  • Shelter-in-place protocols for guest safety.
  • Cooperation with hotel staff is .

Emergency Preparedness

  • Local authorities provide guidance.
  • Monitor weather updates regularly.
  • Emergency contact information ready.
  • A plan for unforeseen events.

Pre-Trip Immunizations

Vaccination Consult

  • Consult a healthcare professional about vaccinations.
  • Get recommended vaccinations for Tobago travel.
  • Health safety for your journey.

Health Precautions

  • Review travel health advisories.
  • Pack any necessary personal medications.
  • Consider mosquito repellent for tropical areas.

Document Security

Document Copies

  • Make digital and physical copies of all documents.
  • Store copies separately from originals.
  • Passport, visa, insurance, and reservation copies.

Banking Alerts

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Notify credit card companies of travel dates.
  • Prevent card freezes during your trip.

Accommodation & Connectivity

Accommodation Choices

  1. Book popular hotels or villas early, especially in high season.
  2. Secure your preferred lodging for comfort.
  3. Early bookings secure best rates.
  4. Research accommodation areas suited for your itinerary.
  5. Consider cancellation policies.

Stay Connected

  1. Arrange for a local SIM card for connectivity.
  2. Consider international roaming options.
  3. Decide on your phone plan for the trip's duration.
  4. Connectivity for navigation and communication.
  5. Check data package costs.

Financial Preparations

Local Currency

Familiarize yourself with Trinidad and Tobago Dollars (TTD) and exchange rates.

Budgeting Basics

Understand basic costs for meals, transport, and activities to budget.

Planning Timeline

Start planning well in advance for a smooth journey.

Important Tax Note

Trinidad and Tobago does not have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists. Do not expect to claim VAT back on purchases.

Departure & Home Preparations

Departure Steps

Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Reconfirm Bookings:

    Reconfirm return flights or ferry bookings.

  • Packing Compliance:

    Pack your bags, respecting airline luggage allowances.

  • Document Organization:

    Organize necessary documents for departure.

Passport & Visa

  • Passport Validity:

    Passport validity for at least six months beyond stay.

  • Visa Application:

    Apply for a visa if required, as early as possible.

  • Entry Planning:

    Pre-plan entry requirements for smooth international travel.

Home Readiness

Home Security

Secure your home by locking doors and windows, and setting alarms.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet or plant care during your absence.

Mail & Contacts

Put mail on hold or arrange for collection. Inform trusted contacts.

Last Minute Prep

Packing Reminders

  • Pack appropriate clothing and gear for your trip.
  • Begin assembling wardrobe and activity-specific equipment.
  • Eagle Creek: Organize with Eagle Creek packing organizers.
  • Purchase travel adapters and packing essentials.

Digital Readiness

  • Download offline maps and useful apps before departure.
  • Prepare your smartphone with essential travel apps.
  • A smooth digital experience awaits.
  • Babbel: Learn local phrases with Babbel.

Insurance & Research

Travel Insurance

  • Research and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
  • World Nomads: Get coverage from World Nomads.
  • Protection for unexpected travel events.
  • Peace of mind for your adventure.

Pre-Trip Research

  • Familiarize yourself with local cultural norms and etiquette.
  • Review safety tips specific to Tobago.
  • A connection to the destination.
  • Informed decisions for a fulfilling trip.

Departure Timing

For international flights, arrive at TAB at least 2-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights to Trinidad, 1-1.5 hours. For the inter-island ferry, arrive at least 1 hour before departure for walk-on passengers, or more for vehicles.