North and Central America and Caribbean

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from terrorism.  Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.  

 

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

 

Trinidad

 

There is an increasing level of gang related violence and crime in Trinidad.  Incidents are concentrated in the inner city neighbourhoods east of Port of Spain's city centre, particularly Laventille, Morvant and Barataria, but can occur in other areas.

 

Theft from vehicles and property can be a problem in parts of downtown Port of Spain and in other urban areas. Cruise ship passengers should take particular care when walking around the docks and downtown, and should avoid straying into areas affected by gang violence. There has also been a worrying increase in violent crime, muggings and robberies in all areas in 2009.  There have also been attacks, some involving firearms, at tourist sites, including Fort George, the Pitch Lake, Las Cuevas beach and also at car parks of supermarkets, shopping malls, nightclubs, restaurants and business premises, including hairdressers and vegetable stalls. There have been a number of incidents involving British nationals, including stabbings and  violent attacks.

 

You should not carry large amounts of cash or wear eye-catching jewellery.  Use hotel safety deposit boxes to store valuables, money and passports.  Do not walk alone in deserted areas even in daylight.  Do not resist robbers or muggers.

 

Tobago

 

Although many visits to Tobago are trouble free, crime against tourists in Tobago and the inability of the Tobago authorities to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators remains a concern.  The authorities on the island are taking positive steps and the response times of the police have improved.

 

There have been a number of serious robberies against tourists and residents. Some of these incidents have been accompanied by violence, including attempted rape. In August 2009 a British couple were attacked in their home in Bacolet.  The couple suffered life threatening injuries that required medical evacuation to Port of Spain.In Bon Accord a British visitor was subject to a robbery and sexual assault at her villa in the Black Rock area. Caution is therefore advised when renting villas in Tobago. All villas should have adequate security measures in place, including the provision of external security lighting, grills and 24-hour security guards. You should be aware of your surroundings at all times and preferably carry a mobile 'phone with roaming capability for use in emergency. Petty theft from cars has also increased.

 

Visitors are advised to visit isolated beaches such as Englishman's Bay and King Peter's bay only as a member of an organised group. Consult your tour operator if in doubt. For more general information see Rape and Sexual Assault Abroad.

 

Do not resist robbers or muggers.

 

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

 

Political Situation

 

Trinidad and Tobago Country Profile

 

Local Travel 

 

Road Travel

 

The standard of driving in Trinidad and Tobago is erratic. High speed road accidents on the main East/West and North/South highways in Trinidad that result in  fatalities are a regular occurrence. Some of the roads are narrow and winding and the surface of a low standard. When hiring a car, you should drive with care. If you do not have a vehicle, you should use hotel taxis, particularly after dark.

 

For more general information see Driving Abroad. 

   

Sea Travel

 

In June 2007 an accident involving two bathers and a motorised boat resulted in serious injuries and an air evacuation. Bathers should be aware that no local maritime legislation in Trinidad and Tobago law exists under which boat drivers can be charged and prosecuted for reckless driving following an incident.

 

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.