Trinidad and Tobago Country Report

The political situation in Trinidad and Tobago is stable, and there is no particular threat of armed conflict. Crime is a serious problem. Opportunistic crime is most likely to affect tourists. Violent crime, armed robberies, criminal gangs, and kidnapping also pose a threat. Protests occur occasionally and are typically peaceful. Strike action can cause disruptions to public services and utility provisions. The terrorism threat is low, although there is growing concern over radicalization within the small Muslim community. Corruption is a concern in the police force, and travelers may be asked to pay bribes for unclear offenses. Most highways are in decent condition, although secondary roads can be in poor condition. Local driving habits can be erratic. Heavy storms can occur between June and November. Floods and mudslides are common in low-lying and mountainous areas. Travelers' diarrhea is the most common ailment among travelers. There have been cases of dengue fever and Zika. Medical services are extremely limited outside of major urban centers.

There is no particular threat of armed conflict, although relations with Venezuela have been tense at times. Criminal activity is a serious problem in Trinidad and Tobago, particularly on the island of Trinidad and the capital Port of Spain. Non-violent crimes, including pickpocketing, theft, and scams, are considered to be the main threat to foreigners.

There are no major safety concerns regarding air travel in Trinidad and Tobago.

Major highways in the country are in decent condition, but secondary roads and streets are narrow and often in poor condition. Automobile accidents remain one of the most common and serious threats facing travelers in Trinidad.

Ports in Trinidad and Tobago are not reaching their full potential and are therefore considered inefficient.

Power outages occur periodically and can affect large sections of the country.

Most cyberattacks are unsophisticated, including card-skimming.

Trinidad and Tobago has a tropical climate that is humid and hot throughout most of the year. Occasional earthquakes do occur. Powerful weather systems during the hurricane season, between June and November, pose considerable hazards. Rain-triggered floods and mudslides are also common in low-lying and mountainous communities, notably on the island of Tobago due to limited infrastructural development. Environmental degradation and effects from climate change are risks.

Travelers' diarrhea is the most common ailment among travelers to Trinidad and Tobago. There have been cases of Zika in the country. Medical care is limited to Port of Spain and other urban centers, while the standards of public health facilities are lower compared to those in more developed countries. Pharmacies are available and generally well-stocked, especially in major urban centers. The availability of prescription drugs may be limited in outlying parishes.

Trinidad and Tobago is a politically stable country, and no significant issues are expected to affect political stability in the short- to medium-term. Corruption can be a problem, compounded by a lack of adequate oversight within government and a serious lack of transparency. Police are relatively professional and approachable. Officers respond effectively to calls for assistance, although corruption within the police exists.