Trinidad and Tobago Country Report
The political situation in Trinidad and Tobago is stable and there is no particular risk of armed conflict. Crime is a serious problem. Opportunistic crimes mostly affect tourists. Violent crime, armed robbery, organized crime, and kidnapping are also threats. Demonstrations sometimes occur but are usually peaceful. Strike action can disrupt public services and provide public services. Although the threat of terrorism is low, there are growing concerns about radicalization in the small Muslim community. Police are concerned about corruption and may bribe travelers for unspecified crimes. While some major roads may be in poor condition, most highways are in good condition. Local driving habits can be erratic. Severe storms can occur from June to November. Floods and landslides often occur in low-lying and mountainous areas. Traveler’s diarrhea is the most common disease among travelers. There are also cases of dengue fever and Zika fever. Far from urban centers, medical services are very limited.
Last updated: April 13, 2022
Security
Relations with Venezuela have been strained at times, but there is no particular threat of armed conflict. Criminal activity is a serious problem in Trinidad and Tobago, particularly in Trinidad and the capital city of Port of Spain. Non-violent crimes such as pickpocketing, theft, and fraud are the main threats to foreigners.
Last updated: May 16, 2022
Infrastructure
There are no major safety concerns when it comes to air travel in Trinidad and Tobago.
The main arterial roads of the country are in good condition, but the roads and side streets are often narrow and in poor condition. Traffic accidents are one of the most common and serious threats travelers face in Trinidad.
Ports in Trinidad and Tobago have not reached their full potential and are considered inefficient.
Power outages occur regularly and can affect large areas of the country.
Most cyber-attacks are simple, like card skimming.
Last updated: December 29, 2022
Environment
Trinidad and Tobago has a tropical climate that is hot and humid most of the year. Sometimes there are earthquakes. Strong weather systems pose significant risks during hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Rain-induced flooding and landslides are also particularly common in Tobago’s low-lying and mountainous communities due to limited infrastructure development. Environmental degradation and the effects of climate change are risks.
Last updated: March 17, 2022
Health and Medical
Traveler’s diarrhea is the most common illness among travelers to Trinidad and Tobago. Zika cases have also occurred in this country. Health services are limited to Port of Spain and other urban areas, and the standard of public health facilities is low compared to developed countries. Pharmacies, especially in large urban centers, are generally well-stocked. Access to prescription drugs may be limited in suburban neighborhoods.
Last updated: September 8, 2023
Political
Trinidad and Tobago is a politically stable country and there is nothing expected to affect political stability in the short to medium term. Corruption can be a problem that is exacerbated by a lack of proper oversight and a severe lack of transparency within government. The police are relatively professional and approachable. Despite corruption in the police force, police officers responded effectively to calls for help.
Last updated: March 30, 2022
