Trinidad and Tobago

Eco-friendly travel guide to Trinidad and Tobago advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean, North America.

Mayaro Beach - Swaying Coconut Palms

Air quality: 3 / 5

Bus connections: 3 / 5

Train connections: 1 / 5

Hitchhiking: 2.5 / 5

National parks: 3 / 5

Outdoor activities: 4 / 5

Locals' English level:4 / 5

Safety: 3 / 5

Accommodation: US$55 - $130

Budget per day: US$X70 - $200

Responsible Travel

Officially known as the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, this is the southernmost island country in the Caribbean. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, this has an abundance of fossil fuels, offering them quite a unique level of importance in terms of energy. Trinidad is bigger in terms of size and population when compared to Tobago.

The islands are well known for their African and Indian cultures. Trinidad and Tobago both have a tropical climate with an abundance of wildlife and nature. One of the most developed economies of the Caribbean and is listed in the top 40 of the 70 high-income countries in the world; these are well-known for their oil and gas reserves.

Trinidad meant 'Land of the Hummingbird.' Tobago was named Belaforme by Christopher Columbus "because from a distance it seemed beautiful." Known as the "Rainbow Country" or more fondly "a callaloo" based on the wide diversity of ethnicities, religions, and cultures, both the islands are just amazing.

To be a responsible traveler visiting the country, a few things to keep in mind include:

Make sure to use eco-friendly ways of traveling like walking or using a bicycle or even booking an eco-friendly vehicle in order to reduce the carbon trail.

Eat and drink locally and avoid consuming fast food from international chain restaurants. This will boost the economy of the country.

When planning to buy a gift or souvenir, go for locally made products from artisans and craftsmen. Refrain from bargaining, as the art demands a high level of skills and patience.

Avoid using plastic or any other pollution-causing material. Properly dispose of the waste to avoid damaging the beauty of the country.

Beaches are beautiful and so refrain from leaving any kind of garbage on the beaches

There are few dishes made from sharks. Being a species given utmost importance, avoid consuming them.

Stay at eco-friendly accommodations that use renewable sources of electricity.

Avoid littering the tourist locations or rather any other place.

While in the country, try to make your fellow travelers aware of responsible tourism. As even a small constriction in reducing the waste or pollution in the country can result in a bigger picture as a whole.

Air Quality and Pollution

While traveling to any new place, there are few concerns that one being a responsible traveler you need to address, out of which one is the pollution. While pollution is a growing concern worldwide, it is inevitable to say that air pollution comes with some serious health concerns. The overall statistics of the pollution of Trinidad and Tobago as per Numbeo are

Pollution Index – 67.44
Pollution Exp Scale – 116.70

The overall Air Quality is 44.92, moderate, while the pollution is comparatively high at 55.08. One of the fastest developing and growth of the creative industries, the pollution level is also rising at an alarming rate. Trinidad and Tobago's main sources of pollution are caused by manufacturing, transportation, fuel trade, electrical power generation, and oil refineries.

With the authorities and locals' efforts, there have been some changes in the pollution level, but still, there is a great way to go. Being a responsible traveler, it is the pristine responsibility to show kindness and awareness towards nature and reduce the country's littering. Reduce the carbon trails, and make your stay memorable.

Respect the Culture

The culture of Trinidad and Tobago is quite diverse and spread. One can see the influence of Indian, European, African, Chinese, Spanish, Latino, Amerindian, and Arab cultures. The histories of Trinidad and Tobago are different. Being an English speaking country makes it quite easy for travelers to communicate with the locals while staying.

One can see the impact of the cultures in the carnivals, food, music, and dance. The largest religious groups are Roman Catholics, Hindus, and Muslims. A perfect place to visit with diverse cultures and traditions, it is important to be aware of the traditions to make the right choices.

Since both the islands are different in their basic nature, the basic cultural aspects remain the same. So while in Trinidad and Tobago, a few points to remember are:

Even though the place is a tourist spot, dressing appropriately is a must.

Being a blend of cultures, you will find various religious locations. Seek the guidance of the locals to respect the tradition at the religious place.

Every place has an art and craft of its own. So, while on the islands, respect the local artisans and avoid bargaining, as the art is of great cultural importance.

The food in the country is greatly influenced by the culture. The traditional food is truly lip-smacking with the influence of Creole, Indian, Amerindian, and Chinese cuisine.

There are a few traditional songs that hold prime importance. Enjoy them as various are played during carnivals and important events.

There are a few carnivals that take place on both islands. Ensure to participate and enjoy, if you get an opportunity to do so. Some of the traditional carnivals celebrated here are Mas', Carnival fetes, Christmas, Divali, Hosay, Phagwah, Maha Shivratri, and J'ouvert.

Spend your time with fun while in Trinidad and Tobago by respecting the culture and participating in various events organized during your stay.

Top 10 Places to Visit

While there numerous places to explore and visit in Trinidad and Tobago, it is equally important to ensure that no harm to the attractions is made while exploring them. Trinidad is one with impressive examples of colonial and Renaissance-style architecture, Tobago is Trinidad's less-developed younger sister, which is naturally impressive and beautiful.

While there are numerous destinations here that will leave you awestruck and amazed, the pristine and topmost destinations that are a must-visit while in the country are listed down here.

Argyle Falls, Tobago: The highest falls is a 175-foot cascade that is just at the walking distance of 15 minutes from the entrance is a beautiful experience. A perfect place to relax in the natural rock pools, this is nature's paradise itself.

Asa Wright Nature Centre & Lodge, Trinidad: A paradise for the birds and the bird lovers, this is 1500 acres of dense forest in the Arima and Aripo Valleys. The opportunity to see the beautiful range of birds like Hummingbirds, woodcreepers, pygmy owls, trogons, and the rare nocturnal oilbird here is beautiful.

Fort King George, Tobago: An amazing historical site that stands as a resilient monument of Tobago's turbulent military past, overlooking the coast is the best-preserved colonial fort in Tobago.

Waterloo Temple, Trinidad: The uncanny beauty located at the end of a causeway striking, this is also known as the Temple in the Sea. The beautiful octagonal- shaped colorful structure is beautiful with the well-crafted murtis of Lord Hanuman, Lord Ganesh, Lord Shiva, and Mother Durga and flowers adorned around them.

Pitch Lake, Trinidad: The largest deposit of asphalt in the world, estimated to contain 10 million tons, this is one beauty of nature. Covering over 100 acres and around 250 feet deep, this is really fascinating.

Little Tobago, Tobago: Known as the Bird of Paradise Island, this was a cotton plantation during the late 1800s and is now an important seabird sanctuary that offers rich pickings for birdwatchers. The mesmerizing view of the birds makes this one of the finest locations to explore.

Mount St. Benedict Monastery, Trinidad: The red-roofed church tower of Mount St. Benedict Monastery is one of the most striking landmarks east of Port of Spain, was established in 1912. The opportunity for hiking and birdwatching here makes this place one of the finest to explore.

Tucker Valley, Trinidad: A beautiful 6000-hectare Tucker Valley is a popular recreation spot, with picnic grounds, hiking trails, and a nine-hole golf course.

The Courtland Monument, Tobago: Located next to Fort James, this is designed by the Latvian community to honor and celebrate their ancestors' history in Tobago.

Fort James, Tobago: Named after James, Duke of Courland, his fort was established in the 1760s. Currently a perfect place for sightseeing, relaxing, and picnicking, this place is in perfect proximity to The Mystery Tomb of Betty Steven; and the Courland Monument.

Waterloo Temple Trinidad

Explore

There is nothing better than the opportunity to explore various places while visiting any new destination. Trinidad and Tobago are among the finest tourist destinations that offer the opportunity to explore various parks, beaches, landmarks, and museums to know the place better.

The beautiful nature, amazing landscape, and uncanny beauty of Trinidad and Tobago will offer you the experience of staying and exploring the paradise to the best.

City Parks

One of the best places to visit in every place in the parks. The lush green vegetation, the amazing trail to walk, and beautiful surroundings offer you peace of mind and relaxation. While there are not many parks in Trinidad and Tobago, there are still a few important parks that can allow us to explore nature's beauty.

Royal Botanical Gardens, Trinidad: Located in Port of Spain, these were established in 1818 and are situated just north of the Queen's Park Savannah. Spread over 61.8 acres, it contains some 700 trees, of which some 13% are indigenous to Trinidad and Tobago.

Queen's Park Savannah, Trinidad: A park in Port of Spain, this occupies around 260 acres and is one of the largest open spaces.

La Vega Gardens, Trinidad: One of the finest gardens with amazing flowers and perfect for gatherings, this is one with perfect bicycle trails.

Scarborough Botanical Garden, Tobago: A well-manured garden spread in 17 acres of area, this is a botanical garden with some of the finest tropical plants and trees.

Pablo's Orchids, Trinidad: A Perfect garden with an amazing collection of exotic orchids perfect for clicking pictures and spending time in peace.

Royal Botanical Gardens Trinidad

National Parks

There are several national parks established in Trinidad and Tobago with a focus on conserving nature and wildlife. Developed to keep the exotic animals, birds, and plants secure, the island has numerous national parks that also offer the opportunity to the travelers to visit and look at the exotic species of the animals here.

Some of the best national parks located in Trinidad and Tobago are:

Sandy Hill Nature Park, Trinidad
Caroni Bird Sanctuary, Trinidad
Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve, Tobago
Nariva Swamp, Trinidad
Yerette - Home of the Hummingbird, Tobago
Chaguaramas Petting Zoo/Safari Eco Park, Trinidad
Corbin Local Wildlife, Tobago
Aripo Savannas, Trinidad
Buccoo Reef, Tobago
Cleaver Woods Park, Trinidad

Nariva Swamp

Beaches

The white sand, the amazing sparkling blue water, and the serene sky make the Trinidad and Tobago beaches one of the finest tourist destinations to explore. Being the islands in the Atlantic ocean, one can explore several beaches while here.

While you are here exploring the beaches' beautiful trails, make sure not to litter the beaches and the sand at any cost. Some of the finest beaches to explore are:

Maracas Bay Beach, Trinidad
Las Cuevas Bay Beach, Trinidad
Blanchisseuse Beach, Trinidad
Mayaro Beach, Trinidad
Pigeon Point Beach, Tobago
Man-O-War Beach, Tobago
Englishman's Bay Beach, Tobago
Paria Beach and Waterfall, Trinidad
Buccoo Bay, Tobago
Castara Bay, Tobago
Tyrrells Bay, Speyside

Maracas Bay is one of the best known beach destinations in Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies.

Landmarks

While there are various landmarks in Trinidad and Tobago, the majority of them are braces and wildlife sanctuaries. Additionally, there are some historical sites that offer an uncanny view of the historical, cultural, and traditional aspects of the place.

Some of the best landmark to explore are:

Fort King George, Tobago
Temple in the Sea, Trinidad
Stollmeyer's Castle, Trinidad
Fort James, Tobago
Queen's Royal College, Trinidad
Archbishop's Palace, Trinidad
Knowsley building, Trinidad
Hanuman Statue, Carapichaima, Trinidad

Fort King George

Museums

If you are a history lover, then visiting the museum is the best idea. The museum offers the best opportunity to know about the culture and tradition of the place at best. Some of the best museums in Trinidad and Tobago are:

Indian Caribbean Museum of Trinidad and Tobago
Luise Kimme's Museum
National Museum and Art Gallery, Port of Spain
Angostura Museum & the Barcant Butterfly Collection
Toco Folk Museum
Museum of Tobago History

Indian Caribbean Museum of Trinidad and Tobago

Eat

The culture greatly influences the food in Trinidad and Tobago. The traditional food is truly lip-smacking with the influence of Creole, Indian, Amerindian, and Chinese cuisine. From the vegan, organic, vegetarian, to non-vegetarian dishes, the food offered here is amazing.

If you are looking to try some of the traditional mouth-watering dishes, then here a few ones for you:

Doubles: Undoubtedly, the most popular street food is a vegetarian sandwich made up of 2 bars of fried dough and filled with curried chickpeas, added with a variety of tangy tamarind sauce, Kuchel, coconut chutney, and pickled cucumbers for exploding flavors.

Pelau: One of the finest one-pot dishes made with rice and vegetables like peppers, onions, tomatoes, carrot, ginger, and garnished with pigeon peas and coconut milk. The non-vegetarian version includes pigtails. Usually served with coleslaw, green salad, or Boca, this is perfect.

Sheena: Made in dasheen (taro) leaves, yellow split pea flour, turmeric, and a variety of spices, this is one spicy and tasty deep-fried snack, perfect for taking with some spicy chutneys.

Curried Crab and Dumpling: The signature dish to Tobago is a plate of crab and dumplings made from flour and cooked in coconut curry sauce.

Pholourie: A wonderful street dish, made from a batter of chickpea flour and seasoned with tons of garlic, onion, cumin, turmeric, peppers, and other spices, then deep-fried, served with tamarind or mango chutney.

Callaloo: A perfect staple for Sunday lunches, served with chicken, macaroni pie, fry rice, and vegetables consisting of boiled dasheen leaves, okra, pumpkin, scotch bonnet pepper, garlic, and onion, all cooked in coconut milk.

Buljol: The salted cod flaked and mixed with sweet peppers, onions, tomatoes, garlic, scallions, scotch bonnet peppers, and olive oil, served with bread or fried bake, is healthy and tasty.

Baighan Chokha: Perfect to vegetarians, this is the smoky egg-plant mashed with browned bits of onion, pepper, and garlic served with baba ghanoush and various chutneys.

Pone: A sweet dish which is usually thick, sticky, and moist, made from grated cassava, coconut, and pumpkin, added with sugar, cinnamon, milk, and raisins.

Chow: One of the healthiest dishes to try, this is a vegan. This includes pineapple and mango, with salt, scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, and shadow-beni and pepper.

Drink

While visiting any new place, the biggest concern apart from stay and travel is the variety of drinks available. It is kind of inevitable to have a drink to accompany the meal.

Various types of drinks are available in Trinidad and Tobago. The most common types of drinks available here include soda, coconut water, juices (mango, orange, or cranberry), ginger beer, ponche crema, eggnog, cocoa tea, and sorrel.

Swizzle, a fruity, delicious rum-based concoction, is considered the national drink of Trinidad and Tobago. One can only find three specialist drinks in Trinidad and Tobago. They are:

Sea Moss: This is the unique seaweed shake, which is truly unique and one of the best drinks available here.

Mauby: A type of tea or syrup made on many Caribbean islands that taste similar to root beer; this has a fairly bitter aftertaste and is quite popular among the locals.

Sorrel: Made from the Sorrel flower's sepals, this is a religious drink made usually during Christmas time in Trinidad and Tobago.

Tasting the local drinks that range from alcoholic to non-alcoholic, there are a wide variety of options to try. Some of the organic cafes offer you the most delicious coffee and tea, made completely organically. Enjoy the amazing drinks to quench your thirst while in Trinidad and Tobago.

Tap-water

When you travel to any new place, the biggest concern is linked to the drinking water. While tap water at most places is found suitable for drinking, for Trinidad and Tobago, the tap water is highly chlorinated, which makes it unfit for drinking.

So, while in Trinidad and Tobago, it is important to boil the water and then cool it down before drinking, but there are chances of getting an upset stomach or water-related illness. The boiled water might taste better, but opting for the packaged drinking water is the best. This will safeguard you from any negative health effects caused by drinking the tap water and ensure better overall condition while in Trinidad and Tobago.

Drinking-Water Quality and Accessibility is moderate at 51.67, whereas the overall Water Quality is relatively low at 34.65. This is one of the primary reasons that make the tap water in Trinidad and Tobago unfit to be consumed.

Being a responsible traveler, make sure to use reusable water bottles. Also, if you use plastic water bottles, make sure to dispose of them according to the set guidelines to avoid any negative effects on the environment. Avoid wasting water and ensure not to pollute the water sources or wastewater in any way.

Activities

Trinidad and Tobago are one of the finest upcoming tourist destinations to explore. With beautiful nature and amazing people, staying here is one of the finest experiences.

Trinidad and Tobago rank among the world’s top ten countries in terms of bird species, and hence the place is perfect for birdwatching. The place is perfect for hiking, trekking, cycling, mountain biking, forest expeditions, and a lot more. For those who are water sports lovers, then the place is one of the finest to participate in snorkeling and scuba diving. The best spots to go for this is offshore Charlotteville and the Sisters Rocks on the leeward side, Shallows or Flying Reef at Crown Point. The Buccoo Reef is known for disintegrating coral.

Some of the other watersports that one can participate in include kayaks, small sailboats, windsurfing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and wake surfing.

Also, one can even spend some time doing yoga as well. Participate in any activity with a group of people to make new friends and have a better experience. There are various tour operators that allow you to have the sightseeing opportunity throughout Trinidad and Tobago and have fun in outdoor activities.

Accommodation

Trinidad and Tobago are one of the finest places to travel. Both islands are quite distinct in nature and are unique, but their beauty is pristine. The islands with the third-highest GDP per PPP are sure to offer some of the finest stay options. Although Trinidad and Tobago are far less dependent on tourism than many other Caribbean countries and territories, the government is looking forward to developing it.

Tobago is more traditionally touristy, while Trinidad is cultural and musical clout. Both the islands offer the most amazing stay options ranging from budget hotels to hostels and from camping grounds to the option of Couchsurfing. Offering the ideal accommodation facility, which has all the necessary facilities a tourist needs while living and at the most budget-friendly prices, Trinidad and Tobago's accommodations are magnificent.

Green Hotels

Offering basic stay amenities with no negative impact on nature and the environment, Eco-friendly stay options are amazing. The hotel following the concept follows sustainable living while making the tourists enjoy every facility by affecting the environment to the least. When it comes to the idea of staying, the eco-friendly hotels at Tobago are amazing. Although there are eco-friendly stay options available in Trinidad, Tobago is a tourist spot majorly and offers better stay facilities.

Focusing on sustainable measures, the hotels here offer all the stay amenities but focus on sustainability concepts like reduce, reuse, and recycle. The prices differ based on the locality and other factors, but the level of services and amenities they offer remain the same. Thus, one cannot generalize, but you should research before choosing. Booking a stay before traveling ensures hassle-free exploring.

Hostels and Guest Houses

Staying in hostels is the best option for solo travelers or students. It is not only budget-friendly but also offers the chance to meet like-minded people and make friends. Sharing their traveling, listening to their travel sagas, and knowing what their culture is like, staying in a hostel is amazing. There are various well-maintained hostels with facilities like the kitchen, Wi-Fi, washing area, peaceful common area, and gardens. The option of shared spaces, dorms, or bunks is amazing, and one can choose the same based on which is the most appropriate.

On the other hand, Guesthouses are appropriate for families or groups that require privacy or are seeking calm and peace. These places are also well-equipped with all the facilities like kitchen, Wi-Fi, washing area, peaceful common area, and the gardens, and even the parking lot. The place is just amazing to relax and stay in terms of self.

Trinidad and Tobago are fastly moving towards welcoming guests and tourists from around the world. Both the islands are amazing and offer the best-in-class hostel and guesthouse facility. Staying at the hostel or guesthouse offers a great way of interacting with fellow travelers and learning about their experiences.

Apartments

Booking service apartments in either Trinidad or Tobago are perfect for those who seek privacy and love to live in their own peculiar way without any interruption. If you are one of those who love to cook their own meal, staying in the service apartments will be the finest idea. One can easily book the apartment with the help of Airbnb, and some of the basic amenities that the apartments offer include the kitchen, parking space, laundry area, Wi-Fi, and sitting area with a home-like and comfortable environment.

One can book a single apartment or a full apartment, depending on the need and budget. Serviced apartments are the most budget-friendly options for people looking to stay for an extended period. Undoubtedly, the level of privacy and security they offer is superior and will also help you gain self-dependence. There are a few service apartments in Trinidad and Tobago that offer the luxurious facility of the island view, golf villas, pools, spas, and cleaning facilities that will make your stay even more beautiful and memorable.

Couchsurfing

Meeting up with the locals or other travelers and spending your stay with them is the basic idea behind Couchsurfing. Although the concept is not widespread in Trinidad and Tobago, one can still get the facility of booking the stay as a couchsurfer.

Couchsurfers share their homes, cities, and lives in profound, meaningful ways, making travel anywhere in the world a truly social experience. The option offers the opportunity to stay with the locals and closely understand the traditions and culture.

Usually, the Couchsurfing facility is offered without making any payment but in exchange for providing small household services to the family one is staying with. One can easily book the Couchsurfing facility online from various Couchsurfing websites. But know the host to avoid any hassle later on. Since the stay facility demands sharing the facilities, either party must make compromises to have a nice stay experience and gather profound memories.

Couchsurfing in Trinidad and Tobago is a win-win situation and the chance to get a long-term friendly relationship with the locals. Make sure to be at your best and ensure to offer your gratitude to your host.

Camping

Living in the woods, under the plentiful stars, and spending time in tranquility is just amazing. No one can deny the fact that camping is one of the finest experiences one can have. Trinidad and Tobago are stunning islands that offer the most beautiful opportunity to stay close to nature, feel the warmth of the sun and the coolness of night beneath the endless sky.

While there are a few located far from the habitat, few parks offer camping grounds, loaded with travelers every time. There are various eco-tour companies or camping planners that help travelers plan camping to pristine natural locations. Going camping with friends and groups is really the best. Playing games, singing songs at night, and participating in various adrenaline rush activities are sure to keep you busy without even a second to get bored up.

Trinidad and Tobago offer the most amazing opportunity to gel with nature and understand the importance of keeping the environment lively.

Regions

Cities

Getting There and Moving Around

Trinidad and Tobago are one of the upcoming tourist destinations that are welcoming nature lovers and travelers worldwide. With the surreal connectivity, reaching the destination is really not a problem. But being a responsible traveler, it is important to keep a few things in mind while booking your itinerary to Trinidad and Tobago.

There are only two options to reach the islands. One is via air, and the other is via ferry. But while on the islands, one can have multiple options to travel.

Ranging from public transport to bicycles and even on foot, one can choose the option most suited based on the area and surroundings. Taxis are one of the most common sources to travel around the islands. You can also book the rental car facility while on the island. There is an option to go for the bus as well. A few bicycles and motorcycle rental spaces on either of the Islands allow the traveler to rent one for exploring.

It is better to opt for an eco-friendly travel option that includes public transport or by bicycle. While choosing the bicycle, make sure to know about the trail you are going to visit and its accessibility.

While on the road, make sure to follow the seat belt rules, speed limit, traffic lights, and licensing requirements. The best part of traveling inter-island or on the island is that the travel charges are quite nominal, making sure you stay within your budget and explore the maximum.

Air

The two islands in the Atlantic ocean, one Trinidad and the other Tobago are just beautiful. Either of the islands is well connected with the rest of the world with the commercial airports' help on them.

The main commercial services airports are:

Trinidad: Piarco International Airport, which is 27 km from the capital, Port of Spain. It has direct service from places like the USA, Canada, UK, Caracas and Porlamar, Panama, Suriname, Guyana, Barbados, and various other islands in the Caribbean.
Tobago: ANR Robinson International Airport, which is 10 km from the capital, Scarborough. It has limited service, mostly from London and New York. But this island is connected with domestic flights from Trinidad.

Numerous airlines offer their service to the islands. One can easily book tickets online from any of the major cities to Trinidad and from there a domestic flight to Tobago. Being the only mode of transport to reach the place, it is important to make your booking way ahead of time to avoid any unpleasant circumstance.

While various airlines offer the service, it is easier for you to compare the prices and book a budget-friendly flight. Make sure to know about the weather, as any changes might cause a delay in the flight. So, be a responsible traveler and select the best budget with the least carbon emission flight to Trinidad and Tobago.

Piarco International Airport

Bus

Reaching either of the islands by bus is not an option at all. But after reaching the airport, one can easily get a bus that connects to the city. Tickets need to be taken before entering the bus, and the timetable available at the counter helps you book your bus easily. Usually, there is a bus every one hour that reduces the time crunch.

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago owns the Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC). The buses on either of the islands usually operate from 4.30 am to around 9 pm, so make sure to plan your travel around accordingly.

While in Trinidad and Tobago, the ticket is required to be booked in advance either from the main City Gate terminus in Port of Spain, Scarborough’s Sangster Hill Road bus terminal, or from small general stores around the country. If you plan to stay for an extended period, then getting a weekly or monthly pass is more advisable.

Buses are highly comfortable and air-conditioned to offer the best experience to travelers. Make sure to plan your day accordingly to avoid missing the trip. Be a responsible traveler, and try to use the public buses at the maximum as it will reduce the pollution and carbon emission.

Train

While a train is one of the traveling networks preferred by most people, the islands do not have any rail network. Although there was a Trinidad Rapid Railway proposal for passengers in Trinidad and Tobago was made, the same was scrapped due to unforeseen circumstances.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is a means of getting a free ride in different countries. Some factors play a role in determining the feasibility of hitchhiking, including safety. While the fares in Trinidad and Tobago are so low, you might not feel the need to get hitchhiked, but still, if you are looking for one, all you need to do is make a small gesture of your hand. Just reach out your arm with your index finger pointing downwards.

One of the high-risk travel destinations, there is a possibility of being at the goons' point, so, while asking for the lift, make sure to be aware of your destination and surroundings. Also, before you get into a car thinking of being hitchhiked, make sure to ask if the car you are getting in is a taxi or not. Since there are a lot of drivers that might be going around, so avoid being fooled. Make the best use of time while getting hitchhiked to know about the place from the locals.

Others

The islands are accessible via flight or ferries only. For those who love a boat ride or cruise, this is the perfect destination in all aspects. Fast catamarans, T&T Spirit and T&T Express, make the journey between the islands around every three hours.

In Trinidad, ferries arrive and depart from the Ferry Terminal opposite the Twin Towers on Wrightson Road in Port of Spain; in Tobago, the terminal is on Milford Road in central Scarborough around six times a day. A domestic ferry operating on the island of Trinidad between the two main cities of Port-of-Spain in the north and San Fernando in the south also operates daily and takes about 45 minutes.

Being a responsible traveler, do prefer to book an eco-friendly personal cab or taxi to reduce the carbon trail while exploring the island. If you get an opportunity, travel the trails by bicycle and help the islands to make the environment even more clean and neat. While choosing the ferries, ensure not to litter the waterways while traveling through.

Sustainable Shopping

The idea of sustainable shopping is to get products made from naturally produced raw materials. It includes locally made artistic supplies, flea markets for some classy regional shopping, shopping from a thrift store, and the local food market to get aromatic raw ingridients. If you plan to get some gifts and souvenirs for your friends and family, then there is no better option than getting a locally produced well.

Products made from local dyes, natural fibers, reusable products, and similar material that ensure no damage is caused to nature are the essence of sustainable shopping. Some of the brands that largely support the idea of sustainable shipping in Trinidad and Tobago are:

Cocobel Chocolate
Full Bloom Coffee
Upcycled Crafts
Licka Lamp
De Sign Books
Oui! Scrubs

The Horticultural Society of Trinidad & Tobago and Thrifters Night Market offers the unique, eco-friendly shopping experience of live music, local vendors, and an abundance of food. So, while you are in Trinidad and Tobago make sure to get sustainably and locally produced goods as this will help boost the economy and the idea of sustainable shopping. Avoid bargaining as these products demand a high level of skills and patience to craft.

Be a responsible traveler and buy eco-friendly gifts and souvenirs to make your trip to Trinidad and Tobago memorable and sustainable. Leave a happy and positive trail that boosts the local economy and makes sweet memoirs of traveling.

Recycling

The idea of reusing the waste materials by transforming them into new usable products reduces the carbon trail and improves the overall environment. Being a concept that is gaining worldwide acceptance, this is helping to restore the beauty of nature. The island country has various recycling companies. The Go Green initiative is highly focused on how small steps towards recycling can bring bigger effects.

With the government and the locals' efforts, the country has managed to recycle most of the waste generated. Also, a few volunteering organizations offer the opportunity to participate in the movement of recycling. So, while you are in the country, make sure to follow the recycling guidelines. Use the plastic to the least and try to follow the recycling guidelines.

Waste

Waste production is increasing at an alarming rate. And for a country like Trinidad and Tobago which welcomes tourists round the year, the amount of waste generated is surely quite high. The country's current waste management policy is based on a state-centric model that uses traditional land-filling. The current Garbage Disposal Satisfaction as per Numbeo is 38.56, whereas the overall Clean and Tidy is 29.24, which is quite low.

But with the efforts of the government and locals, a positive movement towards waste management is seen. So, while in the country, make sure to dispose of waste and follow the guidelines to reduce the carbon trail. Also, avoid littering the aesthetics of the country while exploring the tourist spots. Use the separate bins installed for waste disposal and also make your fellow travelers aware of the same. Be sure to act responsibly while traveling through the country.

Work and Study Abroad

The beautiful island country is one with sparkling nature, amazing people, and lots of things to do. A perfect place for the students to study and explore and hospitality enthusiasts. Working part-time while studying gives a great opportunity to learn and make a living. If you are planning to settle down, then make sure to get a valid work permit. The country is one pristine location for people willing to make a future in tourism, communications, agriculture, and education. One can easily find opportunities online or even in papers published in the country. Additionally, various job agencies are working throughout the country that can help secure a job.

Exchange Student

Trinidad and Tobago is a beautiful destination for exchange students, offering good programs, reasonable fees, and culture and history. Some of the universities offer the facility of direct admission and financial aids and scholarships that can help the students a lot. The level of education is highly appreciable with amazing stay facilities for the students.

Trinidad and Tobago are one of the finest countries with rich culture and warm people; studying here is one of the finest opportunities that open the door to a better and brighter future. One can even seek the education counselors to apply and learn the way through various courses. Make sure to blend in with the culture to get the best of the experience while studying here.

Au Pair

Trinidad and Tobago are gorgeous to explore and stay. But the experience is even better if the opportunity to stay as the Au pair is offered. Staying in a home-like environment, Au pairs offer the opportunity to learn about the locals' tradition, and culture which is quite amusing. Au Pair's concept is when an unmarried young adult travels to a foreign country for a defined period to live with a host family, it may or may not be in return for the monetary benefit.

But before making the booking to stay as the Au pair, it is important to know the host and the underlying conditions to have a great opportunity to have a close look at local life and enjoy the country's stay. Be at your best to experience the local lifestyle and culture at its peak.

Volunteering

Volunteering is the best opportunity to give back to society. Working with the locals by applying the skills possessed and helping the society by offering services, volunteering allows one to gain uncanny knowledge and happiness. The available opportunities include teaching, serving the community, animal services, nature conservation, helping the old, and much more.

The Volunteer Center of Trinidad and Tobago is one of the finest organizations that Connect People, Fuel Hope & Collaborate for Change. It offers the finest opportunities to volunteer and connects with the NGOs. The best organization to develop voluntourism that focuses on nation-building and economic development is VCTT.

Volunteer in Trinidad and Tobago while you plan to travel and explore. Being a responsible traveler use the skills you have to give back to society and have surreal memories while you return back.