There will be no shortage of breathtaking natural beauty, excellent food, and gorgeous beaches when you visit Trinidad. As someone born there who migrated to the States in 1998, I can’t tell you how incredible it is to see Trinidad through new eyes.
As a tourist, Trinidad and Tobago’s cultures and festivals are what keep drawing me back for more. I’m ready to go back again soon, so I should share some of my favorite things about this Caribbean country. With its unique urban landscapes, diverse culinary cuisines, lively music, and blockbuster festivals — like Carnival — it doesn’t take long to become immersed in everything that makes Trinidad special. And the reasons are too many to count. Let me convince you to visit T&T soon. We took a trip to the beach and found this really amazing off-the-beaten-path spot that was totally our own.
The beaches along the north coast of Trinidad are eye-popping, and you’ll need the full day to explore (preferably by car). The cool breeze in the hills, the unmistakable scent of brake pads on the wind, and that first glimpse of Maracas Bay–you won’t want to miss it. Make a quick stop at Blanchisseuse for some fresh fruit chow before heading inland to Richard’s Stand Restaurant. There you can grab a shark and bake lunch before taking a brief drive east to Three Pools Falls and Avocat Waterfall.
The wildlife
Trinidad is a prime destination for people who are passionate about spotting wildlife. There are plenty of opportunities to see great things and Trinidad is relatively easy to visit this time of year. For years, I’ve wanted to spend the height of the leatherback turtle nesting season (June-August) there. The northeastern coast of Trinidad has the third biggest leatherback turtle nesting grounds on the planet and sea turtles come every year and cluster along these sandy shores to lay their eggs. To experience this, it’s best if you book yourself a tour guide first (and it’s safest too!).
Trini might not be as well-known for having a lot of birds, but with 487 different species on the island, there’s plenty to watch. Birdwatchers from around the world will venture here to find rare avian species in the island’s tropical forests and swamps. You can try your luck with a hike up to the Bamboo Cathedral at sunrise to spot Green-backed trogons and red howler monkeys. Or take a tour of Caroni Swamp at sunset, where you might catch a glimpse of pink flamingos nesting alongside Trinidad and Tobago’s national bird, the Scarlet Ibis.
The style and culture
It’s always a good idea to pick up some souvenirs from your travels. UpMarket carries all sorts of locally made artisan goods, including handmade accessories, bespoke stationery and candles. For souvenirs with a literary flair, make sure to visit Paper Based bookstore for the latest in Caribbean stories alongside local authors and poets. To get the latest in Trinidad fashion, be sure to stop by Meiling where you’ll find minimalist designs from local designers; Zadd and Eastman for glamorous gowns; and Lisa Faye Hand Dyed Silk Clothing for intricate tie-dyed dresses and caftans.
When you’re done being active, head over to Rootsyardd – a cultural hub with live performance and music every night. The Trinidad Theatre Workshop is the longest-running theater in the Caribbean. And don’t forget about our healthy, local eats!
I went to Trinidad for the food. The roti was piping hot, and the fancy dishes were a new experience.
Every time I visit Trinidad, my stomach starts rumbling—I can’t wait to get started. It starts outside the Piarco International Airport with hot and fresh doubles—a sandwich made from curried chickpeas tucked between two pieces of fried flat bread. Then I need at least two currant rolls from Jacqueline’s Patisserie, a good aloo pie from the Blue Shop in Barataria, and a sweet, soft, decadent coconut loaf by the Little Loaf Baking Company at specialty grocery Creme Fraiche. Yum.
Some people visit Trinidad just for the food, and I’m one of them. For starters, there are plenty of baked goods to enjoy (no matter how good they are) but don’t forget about enjoying a gourmet dinner out in Port-of-Spain, San Fernando, or anywhere else on the island. I’ve had some great meals at Apsara for northern Indian cuisine, Buzo Osteria Italiana for pasta, Joseph’s for Mediterranean food, and Veni Mange for authentic Trini food.
Live music, drinks and some very emotional goodbyes to my loved ones – Kafe Blue is the perfect way to end a trip.
