<![CDATA[THE TRAVELIN' GEO - A Geo\'s Guide to...]]>Thu, 15 Aug 2024 22:54:21 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[WElcome to Trinidad!]]>Tue, 01 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.thetravelingeo.com/a-geos-guide-to/the-travelin-geo-does-trinidad
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Wheels down!
Though Trinidad and Tobago are sister isles, and I proudly identify as Trinbagonian, it’s only fitting that my first official letter be written to Trinidad, W.I.

I wanted to write individual letters for each of the sister isles as I believe this is the perfect way to thoroughly highlight the beauty and uniqueness of each, to those less familiar.

So as you get ready to journey with me to the land of oil and music, here are a few fun facts to get you oriented!
 
The Where: 10.536421, -61.311951
Trinidad, aka the southernmost island in the Caribbean chain, is the larger island of the twin island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. The island is located approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from the northeastern coast of Venezuela, and 130 kilometers (81 miles) south of Grenada.
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​Trinidad consists of two major cities:
  1. Port of Spain, which is the island’s main city and home to the financial center and major government buildings in Trinidad, is located in the northern portion of the island (north-west).
  2. San Fernando, home to the Naparima Hill, a prominent outcrop with sprawling views, is located in the southern portion of the island (south-west).
 
The year-round temperature averages almost 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round with the rainy season (June to November), and the dry season (December to May) being the major weather variations. 
 
The primary language spoken in Trinidad is English, but Spanish and Patois speakers can be found throughout the island.
 
Trinidad’s currency is the TT dollar, but USD can be used in most major businesses. Other types of currency can be changed at the Piarco International Airport in Trinidad or at a bank of choice. However, unless familiar with the island I would advise you to change money before arriving, or use a no fee credit card on the island (American Express is not accepted).
 
The How: Once you arrive in Trinidad you can get around the island using land, water or air!

​Land:
Car rental: You can rent your vehicle at the airport (Piarco, International Airport) or at a rental company of your choice located throughout the western portion of the island (Port-of-Spain to San Fernando), or Mayaro on the east (South east).
Tip: I personally prefer pre-booking via Priceline or when purchasing my flights, as they typically offer discounts or mileage incentives. Pre-booking also helps with my travel budget and mitigating of costs.

Public transport: Throughout the island of Trinidad there are taxis, maxis and PTSC buses which can take you to your desired destination within the island. Any of the aforementioned options can be accessed via designated pick up points (called stands by the locals), or even along the route! Do note that taxis, maxis and busses are traditionally shared modes of transport, so they are a great way to not only see the island, but also immerse yourself in local culture! Both official taxis and maxis have license plates that begin with H (followed by one or two letters) and end with a series of numbers.
Tip: Have TT money/ dollars, and as with any other country, especially if doing solo travel, be alert of your surroundings and who you talk to.

Rideshare: Relatively new, but making navigating Trinidad (especially if solo) even easier is the concept of ridesharing. While I have my personal favorite, I want to highlight that there are several rideshare options that you can utilize within the island Drop, PinkCab, RideConnect, TT RideShare, Caribbean Taxi.
Tip: Download app(s) before arrival along with Google map, to help navigate the island.

Water:
The Water Taxi operates a ferry from Port of Spain to San Fernando approximately 4 times a day. Tickets cost $15.00 TT and the journey takes on average 1h 15m.
Tip: Check The Water Taxi's Facebook page before using.

Air:
While this post is only focused on Trinidad, I do want to make special mention that you can visit the sister isle Tobago by air via Caribbean Airlines, for a day or 4, for approximately 350.00 TT.
 
Tip: Book in advance using Caribbean Airlines website or your favorite travel website.
NI you can also access Tobago via water (look out for more information in my letter to Tobago).
 
The Why: With approximately 35 Geo-attractions (waterfalls, caves, trails, bird sanctuaries, beaches and natural landmarks), a diverse food scene and rich inventive history, the multicultural, multireligious, multiethnic island of Trinidad is an amazing island to visit.

P.S *in my calmest voice ever* you should begin planning to visit Trinidad in 2023, because it is home to the greatest show on earth!!!!!!

Cheers,
Geo
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