The alert status for the territory remains the same, at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” due to risks from crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. However, the guidance section has been revised to include information about the emergency powers given on 30 December 2024 to the forces of law and order.

New police powers

Government officials in the two-island republic announced the crackdown following a surge in gang-related violence and killings. Prime Minister Keith Rowley said at the time the measure was being brought in to tackle the “unacceptable high level of violent crime.” Over 623 homicides occurred in 2024, for a population of 1.5 million people, with organised crime and the international drug trade contributing to one of the highest murder rates in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Trinidad and Tobago: The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has declared a nationwide State of Emergency based on continued criminal activity that could endanger public safety. The Police Service has the authority to arrest individuals on suspicion of involvement in illegal… pic.twitter.com/eFjAdTGl77

— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) January 17, 2025

In place until April 2025 at least, the emergency powers give police more freedom to stop and search both people and premises without warrants, as well as to detain suspects for up to 48 hours. It is these increased police powers that the March edition of the US advisory highlights.

“Intense” police presence

The state of emergency stops short at any curfew, underlining the government’s determination to “tailor” the strategy, ensuring it is “as unobtrusive as it is to the law-abiding citizen.” This strategy appears to be working so far. Travel Tomorrow reporter Polya Pencheva was visiting Trinidad and Tobago at the time the state of emergency was introduced. Apart from having a dampening effect on New Year’s Eve parties, “nothing really changed,” she said, adding that she was staying “with locals” and the announcement “didn’t really affect my stay.”

Pencheva described life appearing to continue as normal although the state of emergency was on the news. She did however notice an increase in security force visibility, which was quite “intense.”

Places to avoid

In line with US advice, Pencheva also remarked that, with most island journeys undertaken by car, tourists could face risks by accidentally venturing into an unsafe area. The US State Department guidance prohibits its employees on the islands from travelling to Port of Spain, “at any time” specifically Laventille; the southern end of Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street; Piccadilly Street; Besson Street; Beetham; Sea Lots; Cocorite; and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah. After dark, downtown Port of Spain and Fort George and all beaches are also designated as no-go areas.

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The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is the southernmost island country in the Caribbean, a region that regularly attracts large numbers of US visitors, especially around spring break. Tourism Analytics recorded 164,875 US stopover visitors to the archipelago in 2024, up 10.2% year-on-year. So far, the security situation on the archipelago does not appear to have stemmed that tide, with 33,843 US stopover visitors going to Trinidad and Tobago in 2025 so far, a year-on-year increase of 11.2%.

L’article Trinidad and Tobago state of emergency prompts update to US travel advisory est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

1. Las Cuevas, Trinidad

Nestled on the north coast of Trinidad, Las Cuevas is a serene destination that offers a calmer experience compared to the popular Maracas Beach. Located just 10–15 minutes away, Maracas attracts larger crowds, making Las Cuevas a peaceful alternative. Its horseshoe shape shields the area from strong winds, which creates gentle waters that make it ideal for relaxation and swimming.

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Furthermore, Las Cuevas has ben recognized with the Blue Flag certification three times by the Blue Flag International Jury. Usually the certification is awarded to beach and marine facilities that meet strict criteria highlighting water quality, environmental management as well as security services and education. The beach is also rich in biodiversity. Visitors can often find sand dollars along the shore or ocassionally spot flocks of red macaws in the surrounding trees.

That said, travellers should be well-equipped with bug repellent, as the beach is known for its sandflies. Their bites are more severe than mosquitos and the itching lasts longer. Therefore, it is important to be prepared.

2. Macqueripe, Trinidad

Macqueripe is a small but picturesque beach, stretching only 177 metres along the northwest coast of Trinidad. Its proximity to the capital, Port of Spain, makes it an excellent choice for a quick getaway. Depending on the time of visit, the beach can be quiet and private, perfect for those seeking solitude. Additionally, on a clear day, one can even see Venezuela’s mainland from the shore.

Curiously, the little beach has a historical background. During World War II, it served as a US submarine station when the Americans occupied Trinidad’s Northwest peninsula. Despite this fact, today there are no submarines left to remind of this. In fact, nowadays, the beach is a popular spot for snorkeling, allowing marine lovers to take a glimpse of the local water life.

3. Englishman’s Bay, Tobago

A Tobago visit wouldn’t be complete without taking a dip at and experiencing the beauty of Englishman’s Bay. It is a beautiful stretch of coastline with vegetation providing shade for those who are not so happy with the Caribbean sun. What makes this beach such a great find is exactly that it is not so well known.

Englishman’s Bay is also recognised to be among the best Caribbean beaches, according to the Crazy Tourist. The calm waters make it an ideal location for swimming and snorkeling, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serene natural surroundings.

Additionally, there is also a charming little restaurant with a craft shop nearby, where one can have some local food and escape from the sun. One of the most picturesque spots for Instagram-worthy photos is a swing overlooking the sea, offering a perfect place to relax while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.

4. Castara, Tobago

Castara is a small fishing village, nestled on the North Coast of Tobago. Split into two beaches – Big Bay and Little Bay, the village is popular for snorkeling and swimming. Being in a community village, visitors can often see fishermen pulling their nets on the beach. Those who are interested in purchasing fresh fish have the opportunity to do so directly from the local fisherman. To add to this, Big Bay is a perfect spot for watching the magnificent sunset over the Caribbean Sea.

A unique feature of Castara is the traditional dirt oven. Made primarily from clay, stones, and other natural materials, this type of oven has a deep historical significance for Tobagonians. It has played a central role in sustaining communal activity and it has supported small-scale entrepreneurship that allows families to sell baked goods. It is still used in some parts of Tobago today, preserving the island’s culinary culture.

Castara is also home to the well-known Castara Retreats, where yoga professionals and experts in meditation, health and nutrition offer programs dedicated to wellness and creativity. The enterprise provides eco-friendly, treehouse-style accomodations on a hillside with panoramic views of the ocean and the jungle.

5. Mount Irvine, Tobago

Popular among surfers, Mount Irvine is another addition to the tally of hidden gems in the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago. This picturesque beach offers waves that attract both experienced surfers and beginners looking for lessons.

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, there is a charming Caribbean bar located right by the water. On high tide, the waves sometimes reach the bar’s edge, so visitors should be mindful of their belongings.

Mount Irvine has also been recognized for its environmental efforts, achieving Blue Flag pilot status five years ago. This designation highlights the beach’s commitment to maintaining high environmental and safety standards.

L’article 5 hidden gem beaches in the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Beyond turtle watching, Tobago offers much to tourists and locals alike. It is a beloved vacation destination, perfect for relaxation and escape from daily life. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, amazing beaches, and lush nature, Tobago has something for everyone. While the island has too much to offer to be fully captured in one piece, there are a few must-experience activities for newcomers. This is a brief overview of some essentials for anyone who hasn’t set foot there before. 

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1. Feed hummingbirds off your hand + Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve (UNESCO)

Perhaps one of the most fascinating experiences while visiting Tobago is going to one of the hummingbird sanctuaries and actually feeding the hummingbirds. Being the smallest mature birds (7-13cm), they are not very easy to spot, given their speed. Their wings beat extremely fast, which is 75 beats per second in normal conditions. It is a rather incomparable feeling when they come close enough to feed off your hand.

Then there’s the opportunity to actually hear their wings hum and observe them move. Interestingly, because of their high speed, their wings seem almost invisible. Several locations across the island provide opportunities to witness these vibrant creatures up close, including Hummingbird Paradise and Shurland James Hummingbird Nature Park near Bloody Bay.

Hummingbirds are just one of the examples of Tobago’s rich biodiversity, much of which is protected by the Main Ridge Forest Reserve. This reserve, which spans approximately two-thirds of the island, is the world’s oldest legally protected forest reserve established specifically for conservation purposes, dating back to 13 April 1776. It was designated to maintain rainfall, essential for the region’s fertility. The forest is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including 12 to 16 mammal species, out of nearly 90 in the Caribbean and over 200 species of birds, such as the White-tailed Sabrewing Hummingbird (Campylopterus ensipennis). Recognized by UNESCO’s World Heritage tentative list, the reserve is an important natural habitat for the conservation of biodiversity.

2. Take a Tobago Buccoo Reef glass bottom boat Tour to No Mans land

Among the highlights of Tobago is taking a glass bottom boat tour to No Man’s Land, which is part of the main island that stretches out into the Bon Accord Lagoon. Accessible only by boat, this location offers an appealing escape for those seeking an alternative to the busy beach experience.

Along the way, the tour stops at Nylon Pool, a shallow, crystal-clear sandbank behind the Buccoo Reef. This natural pool was named by Princess Margaret during her visit in 1962. It is famous for its soft, white sand and waist-deep waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming. This is also what inspired her to give it the name. Just imagine being in the middle of the ocean and being able to dip in the water without worrying about depth.

Buccoo Reef in itself is one of the multiple Tobagonian coral reef ecosystems. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting snorkelling and marine lovers from across the globe. According to the TT Guardian, it is estimated that more than 90% of people visiting the island also go to the reef. Moreover, it spans 7 km² and has five reef flats that can reach up to 25 metres in depth.

3. Visit the most famous beaches – Pigeon Point and Store Bay

A trip to Tobago would be incomplete without spending time at its most popular beaches, namely Pigeon Point and Store Bay. These shores offer an escape, where visitors can bask in the sun, take a dip in the clear waters, or simply unwind with the soothing sound of the waves.

Pigeon Point is a designated national heritage park, most famous for its thatched-roof jetty, being a popular Instagram location. The beach is also a hotspot for water sports, with options for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Marine enthusiasts can also go on a diving adventure as Pigeon Point provides access to some of Tobago’s best dive sites.

Similarly, Store Bay is a lively beach known not only for its beautiful coastline but also for its craft and souvenir shops, allowing visitors to purchase local handmade souvenirs and trinkets, not diverging too much from their planned beach day. It is also the best place to try one of Tobago’s signature dishes—curried crab and dumplings. 

4. Go unwind at Blue Waters Inn and see Goat Island 

Last but not least is Blue Waters Inn, located at Batteaux Bay, Speyside. This is a beach resort where people can go to and just relax for a while, have a nice meal and marvel at the beautiful ocean view. 

There is more to this though. While dining there, visitors can look across the water to an island, called Goat Island. Looking carefully, it is rather easy to spot a house there. Rumour has it that this island was a retreat of Ian Fleming, author of the James Bond series. In 2006, Forbes released an article supporting these rumours, stating “a spectacular coral reef lies just off the island, and Fleming is said to have gone diving for an hour each morning when he was in residence.” Fleming’s biographer Andrew Lycett is reported to have however stated that “Fleming did not have a house —let alone own an island—in Tobago.” Currently, there is no clear data on whether Ian Fleming stayed there or not. Despite the mystery, Goat Island remains a fascinating sight, adding to the allure of Tobago’s northern coast.

L’article 4 things that are a must if you visit the tiny island of Tobago est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

While statistics offer valuable insights, nothing compares to experiencing Trinidad and Tobago in person. Visitors should plan their itineraries carefully to avoid falling into the routine of just lounging on the beach, as tempting as that may be, because this could lead you to miss out on many potentially memorable experiences. 

From local cultural experiences to hidden gems in nature, there is so much more than what meets the eye. Here’s a short list of things every first-comer should do.

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1. Rent a house and spend some time “down de islands”

In addition to the islands of Trinidad and Tobago, the country has several smaller islands which locals refer to as “down de islands” (DDI). These include Monos Island, Huevos Island, Gaspar Grande Island (home to the Gasparee Caves), and Chacachacare Island. They offer a serene escape from civilization, allowing anyone to unwind and relax. Interestingly, channels between these islands are known as the Dragon’s Mouths (Bocas del Dragón), with the Grand Boca separating Trinidad from Venezuela. 

Reaching these islands is easy, thanks to boat taxis frequently operating between the main island and the smaller ones. Most taxis depart from the northwestern part of Trinidad, near Chaguaramas Bay, a location with a rich historical heritage. In 1797, while the islands were under Spanish colonial rule, the Spanish colonizers surrendered to a fleet of British ships. Several years later, Great Britain officially took control of the islands.

2. Take a tour of the Caroni Bird Sanctuary

Classified as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, the Caroni Bird Sanctuary is another must-visit destination. Located in the Caroni Swamp, on the island’s west coast, it is just a 30-minute drive from Port of Spain. A boat tour offers visitors the chance to navigate the waterways and enjoy close-up views of mangrove trees and local wildlife, including herons, snakes, and even anteaters.

The swamp is the perfect place to visit for nature and bird lovers. It is home to the scarlet ibis, Trinidad’s national bird, and many other bird species like flamingos. Similarly to flamingos, only adult scarlet ibises have the bright scarlet red colour that comes from their diet, which is rich in carotenoids, usually found in shrimp and other crustaceans. 

3. Explore Bamboo Cathedral’s hiking trails

Bamboo Cathedral is a spot where high bamboo stalks bend towards each other to form a canopy that looks like a cathedral’s pointed arch. This spot doesn’t only attract nature lovers but also photographers and couples looking for unique photos. The area is home to various birds, green monkeys, and red howler monkeys, which are most active early in the morning (usually before 10 am).

For the adventurous, a trail leads to an abandoned United States satellite tracking station, that was constructed during the Cold War. The station was part of a Ballistic Missile Early Warning System designed to detect Soviet missile attacks. The hike could be a bit tiring because it is uphill, but it is worth it. Also, halfway through, there is the option to stop at the lookout to rest and admire the view of the scenic North Coast.

In this area there is one more place to stop by or hike to. It is a matter of perspective and it is a small plane wreck. The wreck is a Piper PA-23 Aztec aircraft that crashed into the mountain in 1975. The plane was supposed to land at Piarco International Airport in Port of Spain but because of the bad weather conditions, the pilot couldn’t contact the tower. He made a choice to fly lower to see the landscape. Unfortunately, this was done, when the plane was reaching the North Range of the island which caused it to crash in the mountain. The wreckage can still be seen here, after so many years.

4. Try local foods such as “doubles” and “bake and shark”

One essential culinary experience in Trinidad and Tobago is trying “doubles.”  They are the best thing you can have there while being really affordable and vegetarian-friendly. “Doubles” consists of two pieces of thin, fried flatbreads served with curried chickpeas and different sauces and chutneys. This street food is loved by locals and tourists alike, who line up in front of the different “doubles” carts for more. They are a popular Sunday breakfast food or a post-party hangover food. Beware if you are asked if you want hot pepper sauce it comes in 3 options – slight, medium, or heavy. The local pepper sauce could be rather formidable for Europeans, so it is recommended to avoid it or begin with “slight”.

Another must-try dish is “bake and shark”, especially at Maracas Beach. There are multiple huts that sell this dish. It consists of a fried flatbread and deep-fried pieces of locally seasoned shark. Moreover, you can add other toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, pineapple, and sauces based on taste and preference. Some of the Trinidadian staples for sauces are Tamarind and Chadon Beni (similar to what is known as culantro – chardon béni in French or long coriander).

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5. Take a swim in Avocat Falls

Yet another hiking opportunity leads to a waterfall, and a dip in it is the reward after all the effort made on the trail. Located near the village of Avocat, visiting this waterfall makes for a great family experience, as the trail is not too steep. As with any other waterfall, the water is cold but it is probably worth taking a swim, after the tiring walk up. 

People feeling more adventurous can go to the top of the waterfall. However, this is not recommended for anyone with a fear of heights. Climbing to the top can be rather intimidating and nerve-racking but it is quite rewarding once there and admiring the view.

L’article 5 things to explore in Trinidad and Tobago est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Beyond the steelpan culture, Trinidad and Tobago offers unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking a tropical vacation, as well as adventurers looking to explore a new destination.

However, while being part of the Caribbean islands, Trinidad and Tobago’s rich natural resources, diverse cultural experiences, and delicious food are not marketed as strongly as they deserve. Yet, there are multiple reasons why the country should be on your travel radar.

1. No visa required

Travelling to Trinidad and Tobago is quite convenient for EU passport holders. No visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days. In contrast to many other destinations that require visas, you can plan your trip to this Caribbean island without any concerns about visa paperwork. This policy allows travellers to focus on planning their visit to Trinidad and Tobago without the worry of potential visa approvals or denials.

2. Direct flights

Convenient travel options make a huge difference when choosing a destination. Luckily, KLM offers direct flights from Europe, particularly from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, straight to the capital, Port of Spain. Additionally, Condor offers seasonal flights to Crown Point from Frankfurt International Airport, while British Airways operates direct flights to both Port of Spain and Crown Point via London Gatwick Airport. These direct connections enable travelers to relax and enjoy the journey without the worry of catching connecting flights.

3. Escape the cold European weather

Living in Europe and enduring harsh winters with freezing temperatures is far from pleasant. A winter getaway to a warm destination can solve your issues for about 2 or 3 weeks, depending on your schedule. December, for instance, marks the end of the rainy season in Trinidad and Tobago, making it one of the cooler months on the islands. 

With daily average temperatures of 28–29°C, December offers the perfect beach weather – warm enough to relax comfortably without being overly hot. Moreover, the ocean water is invitingly warm, perfect for a dip without the discomfort of chills. If you seek a break from the cold, flying south towards the Caribbean will most likely meet your expectations.

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4. Affordable flights (when booked on time)

Although flights to the Caribbean can be expensive during peak seasons like Christmas, experienced travellers can find good deals by booking in advance or simply tracking the flight prices for their wanted dates. Generally, the most affordable months to fly are usually from January to March, with February often presenting the lowest prices. While this information may fluctuate based on demand, it is highly recommended to keep tracking flights and consult different sources.

5. A lot to see and do

In addition to its well-known tourist spots, Trinidad and Tobago provides numerous unique local experiences worth discovering, particularly the Carnival. This festival is a must-see, showcasing the colourful spirit of Caribbean culture, which is vastly different from European traditions. Even if you don’t make it for Carnival, starting from the beginning of January, there are exquisite parties every weekend, preparing locals and foreigners for Carnival.

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Even a short two-week trip reveals fascinating aspects of daily life that locals might take for granted. Depending on the location, you might encounter an iguana relaxing on the street or spot hummingbirds fluttering near homes.

The islands of Trinidad and Tobago are especially attractive destinations for anyone who likes outdoor life because they offer beautiful beaches, intricate hiking trails, and, most importantly, a variety of wildlife totally different from Europe. Did you also know that depending on the date of time, if you go to a certain location, you will spot monkeys in their natural environment? 

L’article 5 Reasons why Europeans should visit Trinidad and Tobago est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

While tourism here isn’t highly developed because the island is highly focused on oil production rather than tourism, visiting can still be an incredible experience if you know where to look. One such spot that attracts not only tourists but also locals are the cabins in the trees, nestled on top of the mountain in the jungle. You read that right, a cabin in the jungle!

The cabins are built in the Northern Range Forest, giving easy access to beaches such as Maracas (the most popular beach on the island) and Las Cuevas, which are a short drive away. Both beaches are marvellous, allowing bathers to appreciate the water, the sun, and the warm weather. Las Cuevas, in comparison to Maracas, is more secluded. It is shaped like a horseshoe, offering protection from the wind. This makes it a perfect location for swimmers.

Additionally, lodgers at the North Deck cabins can take trips to other locations such as the capital Port of Spain, which is not too far, or the little scenic lookouts along the beach routes from where they can take in the beautiful views. For people interested in hiking, there are also nearby trails that can be followed. To add to this experience, nature enthusiasts can get in touch with guides such as onthego_tt who lead hikes up in the mountains and explore untouched beaches but also beautiful gorges and waterfalls.

Staying at North Deck cabins invites every person to slow down, take a breath, relax, bird watch, and soak in the beautiful Caribbean sunsets. Visitors can choose from 4 beautifully designed private cabins that can be accessed via a concrete surfaced road.

Each cabin is fully equipped with a kitchenette that allows guests to prepare their own food or snacks. To make the experience even more convenient, staff can stock the kitchen before guests arrive, ensuring everything needed for a meal or snack is ready from the moment they check in. However, for those who don’t feel like meal prepping on vacation, contacting the property managers can help organize food at the restaurant.

The high ceilings of the cabins give a feeling of extra space that is enhanced by the panoramic view of the sea framed by the forest, while large doors allow visitors to experience indoor-outdoor living. One notable highlight is being able to sit on the little balcony on a highchair and sip coffee while hearing the sound of the birds in the morning. This is the perfect getaway for people seeking serenity away from the fast-paced, noisy city life.

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Not far from the cabins, a few steps further, is the deck. From there, approximately 550 metres above sea level, is the view overlooking northward to the island of Grenada. This location was once home to cocoa and coffee cultivation, and the old cocoa house is still standing, a hint to the area’s historical heritage.

The viewing deck itself is designed to accommodate several of the large rainforest trees with strategically placed openings that allow them to grow through its surface. This creates the feeling of being part of the canopy. The structure is beautifully surrounded by lush ferns and flowering bushes.

L’article The hidden jungle cabins of North Deck in Trinidad and Tobago est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.