Port of Spain Travel Guide

Port of Spain, on the northwest coast of Trinidad island, is the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago. The city is famous for its carnival, second only to that of Rio in importance but preferred by many because of its perceptions of being safer. A bustling and friendly city, Port of Spain is a great place to spend a couple of days and is the hub for the Trinidad's famous carnival. It has been the capital since 1757 and is the main administrative center, although not the largest town. The main shopping area is between Frederick Street and Charlotte Street, running south to Independence Square (Brian Lara Promenade). As well as the bricks-and-mortar shops, there are numerous stalls on the street selling everything from fruit to CDs. In the evening Independence Square is full of locals liming — hanging around, chatting to their friends and sampling food from the stalls scattered throughout. Wandering through here is a great way to get a feel for what Trinidad is about.

FromTobagothere are 14 flights a day on Tobago Express, which is operated by Caribbean Airlines. Flights are on a De Havilland Dash 8, cost TT$300 or US$48 each way (Nov 2024) and last about 20 minutes. Despite the great frequency of flights these can get booked out very easily.

Taxis are expensive, with a minimum price for a journey within Port-of-Spain being US$10. There are no standard color-coded markings for taxis in Port-of-Spain, e.g., yellow taxis, and by all appearance resembles private motor vehicles. However, all vehicles for hire will have a license plate starting withHinstead and you should not be surprised if one stop by and ask if you want a ride. Remember to check if it is a taxi! It is preferable to contact the taxis through your hotel.

Trinidad has a high murder rate, but if you are sensible and stick to the main areas, you shouldn't have a problem and will find the locals incredibly friendly. Avoid any ostentatious display of wealth, and don't wander down dark backstreets at night or on your own, and you shouldn't experience any problems at all.

There is now a surfeit of "Splurge" rooms for much of the year. Try bargaining to get rates less than those listed.