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Our 5 (well, more than 5) favourite Tobago beaches for 2023

OK, no matter what else you may have come to Tobago to explore, enjoying its truly stunning beaches is bound to feature high up on your list of things to do! So here are our top five — plus many of our other favourites. One quick tip: the further north you go, the quieter the beaches tend to be. And, of course, if you want the low-down on all Tobago’s beaches, make sure to check out the rest of our Beaches section!

25+ cool & important facts about Trinidad & Tobago

There are many people and things that have landed Trinidad and Tobago in the history books …or which are just plain cool! Here are just some. And if you know more that you think should be here, feel free to give us a shout! We always love to hear from our readers.

Watching out for Trinidad & Tobago’s turtles

Your guide to turtle-watching and turtle conservation in both Trinidad and Tobago

Go hiking: popular Trinidad hikes for your bucket list

Of all the out-doorsy things you can do in Trinidad & Tobago , hiking is one of the best. Much like the country, hikes can accommodate almost everyone, from the gentle soul who’s looking for equally gentle terrain to the most intrepid, bring-it-on types. Here are some of Trinidad’s most popular hikes — from easy waterfall hikes, to caves with over a million bats, and the country’s most gruelling climb

Mishael Morgan: Trinidad-born, Emmy-winning history maker

Trinidad-born Mishael Morgan made history in June as the first woman of colour to win the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. A few weeks after her historic win, Caroline Taylor caught up with her for a wide-ranging chat about her career, living a purpose-driven life — and what’s next for her

Tobago sightseeing — and boons for birders!

Our favourite sightseeing spots, day trips , and birdwatching sites

Becoming a Payge Turner: meet Trinidad’s Paige Roopchan (part 2)

With a wealth of both musical and athletic talent, Trinidad-born Paige “ Payge Turner ” Roopchan’s path, however winding, seems destined for stardom

Tobago achieves two green travel milestones

Northeast Tobago declared a UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve, right after three Tobago beaches achieve Blue Flag Pilot status Earlier today, the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited and the Environmental Research Institute, Charlotteville (ERIC) celebrated the island obtaining the UNESCO Man & the Biosphere (MAB) designation, which TTAL described as an opportunity to develop and promote …

Saving Trinidad’s Asa Wright Nature Centre

The treasured eco centre needs to urgently raise capital in order to stay operational Exactly a month ago, on the 24th of September, the Asa Wright Nature Centre ’s Facebook page put out an SOS for help. “Due to COVID-19, we need your help now!” The post read, explaining that donors had the opportunity to double …

Trinidad Tourism begins to prepare for T&T border re-opening

Trinidad’s tourism stakeholders are one step closer to safely re-opening the sector to international travellers. Tourism Trinidad Limited (TTL), in collaboration with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), hosted a webinar called Train the Trainer: COVID-19 Health Guidelines for Reopening the Tourism Sector & the Tourism Health Information System on 14th October. Over 200 tourism …

Meet the Johnsons | The making of a Trini Payge Turner (part 1)

With roots in a multi-talented and musical Trinidadian family, Paige Roopchan is fruit falling very close to the tree By now, you’ve no doubt seen 28-year-old Payge Turner ‘s stunning performance on the season premiere of The Voice last Monday. If not, you can check it out below. You can also read our full profile on …

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Trinidad & Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago are an exercise in beautiful contradiction. In Trinidad, pristine mangrove swamps and rainforested hills sit side by side with smoke-belching oil refineries and unpretty industrial estates. Tobago has everything you’d expect from a Caribbean island, with palm trees and white sand aplenty, yet it’s relatively unchanged by the tourist industry. Combined, this twin-island republic offers unparalleled birdwatching; first-class diving; and luxuriant rainforests perfect for hiking and waterfall swimming. Then there's the electric nightlife and a fabulous Carnival, easily the biggest and best of the region’s annual blowouts. And thanks to the legacy of TnT's melting-pot population, the cuisine is a foodie dream, from sensational curries to the freshest of fish.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Asa Wright Nature Centre

A former cocoa and coffee plantation transformed into an 600-hectare nature reserve, this place blows the minds of birdwatchers. Even if you can’t tell a…

About 25km southwest of San Fernando, and just south of the small town of La Brea, this slowly bubbling black 'lake' is perhaps Trinidad’s greatest oddity…

Pirate’s Bay

Past Charlotteville's pier, a dirt track winds up and around the cliff to concrete steps that descend to Pirate’s Bay, which offers excellent snorkeling…

Corbin Local Wildlife Park

Established by hunter turned conservationist Roy Corbin in Tobago's forest-covered interior, just inland of the windward coast's Hope Bay, this nonprofit…

Queen’s Park Savannah

Port of Spain

Once part of a sugar plantation, formerly home to a racecourse and now the epicenter of the annual Carnival, this public park is encircled by a 3.7km…

Fort George

Get a truly spectacular bird's-eye view of the Port of Spain cityscape and the Gulf of Paria from this colonial-era fort, with stone-built defensive walls…

Fort King George

Atop a hill at the end of Fort St, this sizable fort was built by the British between 1777 and 1779, and is worth a visit to see its restored colonial-era…

National Museum & Art Gallery

Housed in a classic colonial building, the rather dry historical exhibits range from the oil industry to Amerindian settlers, the colonial era and…

Latest stories from Trinidad & Tobago

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Apr 30, 2018 • 4 min read

For food, fun and festivals, Port of Spain, the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, is your ideal Caribbean location. The country's complicated history…

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General Information

Trinidad: Port of Spain

Tobago: Scarborough

1.3 million, descendants from Africa, India, Europe, China, the Middle East and the Mediterranean.

Official language

• Trinidad: 4,838km 2 (1,864 sq. miles); 105 x 80km (65×50 miles)
• Tobago: 300km 2 (116 sq. miles); 48 x 16km (30 x 10miles)

Year-round;   Atlantic Standard Time (GMT/UTC-4, EST +1)

Tropical with a dry season from January to May and a wetter (rainy) season from June to December.  The islands are located just below the hurricane belt, though they have been hit by hurricanes in the past.  The daily temperature range is 72-95F (22-35C) with an average of 83F (29C).

• Major resource: Oil and natural gas.
• Major industries: LNG, steel, methanol, ammonia, urea, light manufacturing and assembly.
• Major services: Tourism, conference and convention facilities, financial services, construction.
• Electricity: 115v/230v, 60Hz
• Water: Tap water is safe to drink (you can boil if you to double sure); different brands of bottled water is widely available
• Mail: TTPost operates the national mail service, FedEx, DHL, UPS and other service providers are available

Telecommunications

• Phone Code: 868 (regional code: 1)
• Landline: Communications provided by the Telecommunications Services of Trinidad &Tobago (TSTT) and FLOW. Pre-paid international phone cards are available.
• Mobile: Bmobile (TSTT) and Digicel operate on GSM and 4G broadband mobile services, prepaid SIM cards are available for unlocked phones.

Public Wi-FI

FLOW’s Fspots are available free at the food chains of Rituals, Pizza Boys, Church’s Chicken, Mario’s and Boomer’s restaurants. Bmobile and blink broadband customers can register for free wifi at any of their locations. Bzone (Bmobile’s free wifi) is offered at the Ferry Terminal, Store Bay, Pigeon Point and Gulf City Mall (Lowlands).

• ATMs and credit/debit cards are regularly used
• US$1 = TT$6.4 (floating exchange rate)
• Taxes: 10% room tax + 10% service charge at hotels; 15% VAT on most goods and services.

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About the Ministry

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts (MTCA) is responsible for transforming Trinidad and Tobago into a premier tourist destination, as well as the development of Trinidad and Tobago’s many cultural and artistic forms, through policy and strategic interventions, research, monitoring and evaluating trends, partnering with industry stakeholders, and raising awareness, among other things, to improve the country’s economic and social progress.

The MTCA is on a mission to grow and transform the tourism, culture and heritage resources for the benefit of Trinidad and Tobago. Our vision statement, “The vehicle through which society and the world experience who we are,” reflects our commitment to national socio-economic transformation and growth through the development of sustainable tourism and cultural sectors.

The identification of the new Ministry, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts by Gazette dated 9 September 2020, presented opportunities for synergies between the sectors.

In this regard, the Ministry aspires to establish an enabling environment that will allow these sectors to contribute more to the national economy while also instilling in citizens the importance of tourism and a feeling of national identity.

The Ministry acknowledges that a continuous collaborative effort is required to create and build alliances and partnerships with our stakeholders to achieve these goals. Our executive is led by the Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Senator the Honourable Randall Mitchell; the Permanent Secretary (Ag.), Mr. Videsh Maharaj; and the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Ag.), Mr. Martel Waldron.

Permanent Secretary (Ag.)

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Ag.)

Units within the ministry, office of the minister.

Office of the Minister has overall responsibility for the Tourism and Cultural sectors and setting the Ministry’s policy direction. The Minister exercises authority to grant incentives under the Tourism Development Act.

Office of the Permanent Secretary

Office of the Permanent Secretary is in charge of planning and managing the Ministry’s operations and functions and providing technical assistance and policy implementation. The Permanent Secretary is the Ministry’s Accounting Officer and has fiduciary responsibility for the Ministry’s management.

Office of the Deputy Permanent Secretary

Office of the Deputy Permanent Secretary assists with planning, organizing, directing, and coordinating the Ministry’s technical and administrative support functions.

Research and Planning   Unit

Research and Planning Unit is primarily responsible for tourism research and provides information and knowledge supporting decision-making. The Unit’s functions include overseeing the implementation of the Ministry’s Development Programme, reporting and preparation of briefs, responses to Parliamentary Questions and Cabinet Notes. The Unit’s research mission includes increasing the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts’ data gathering and analysis capabilities to provide relevant, up-to-date information that leads to evidence-based decision-making.

Tourism Advisory Unit

The Tourism Advisory Unit spearheads the formulation of policies and sub-policies that advance the country’s tourism sector and examines trends that influence tourism. The Unit provides advice, guidance, and recommendations based on the findings of those trends to inform the future of the tourism sector. The TAU also provides policy-driven and strategic advice on tourism-related issues by preparing Technical Reports and Briefs.

Investment, Facilitation and Monitoring Unit

This Investment, Facilitation and Monitoring Unit is primarily responsible for facilitating investment incentives in the tourism sector for Trinidad and Tobago. Essentially there are two categories of tourism incentives: legislated and non-legislated. The legislated tourism incentives are included under the Tourism Development Act (2000), Chapter 87:22 and are mainly to facilitate financial incentives for Accommodation projects (Hotels), Ancillary projects (theme parks) and Transportation projects (vehicles). The non-legislated tourism incentives are programmes approved by the Cabinet. There are currently two non-legislated tourism incentives available: the Government Loan Guarantee Programme (GLG) and the Tourism Accommodation Upgrade Programme (TAUP).

Project & Facilities Management Unit

Project & Facilities Management Unit is responsible for the facility management and upgrades of six (6) sites. These sites are:

Maracas Beach, Las Cuevas Beach, Vessigny Beach, Manzanilla Beach, La Brea & Paramin Look Out

The Projects Unit also collaborates with other Government and State agencies to upgrade tourism sites, such as the Galera Point Lighthouse project. It provides support to the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA), Naparima Bowl and Queen’s Hall, to name a few.

Monitoring and Evaluation Unit

The formulation, implementation and maintenance of a results-based monitoring and evaluation system that examines whether the Ministry’s policies and initiatives are aligned with the country’s national goals and outcomes. This is measured against the National Development Strategy (NDS) 2016-2030 and the National Performance Framework (NPF) 2017-2020 and whether the Ministry’s and the Tourism Trinidad Destination Management Company’s performance meets their objectives. This Unit also monitors the implementation of the Ministry’s  Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) to ensure that the projects of the Ministry add value and are being implemented transparently.

Legal Services Unit

The Legal Services Unit’s role in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts satisfies legislative compliance requirements, the fulfilment of day-to-day requests for opinions and the drafting, execution and administration of various types of agreements/contracts, contract management, taking proactive and rigorous steps to protect the Ministry from legal exposure and consistently strengthening the Ministry’s legal framework by making constructive inputs at various stages of the legislative review and policy formulation processes.

Communication Unit

This Communication Unit assists the Ministry in achieving its strategic objectives. It is responsible for the Ministry’s image, branding, advertising and public relations. It informs and explains the Ministry’s policies and programmes through internal and external communications by providing timely, accurate and credible information to citizens about the tourism, culture and arts portfolio.

Information Technology Unit

The Information Technology Unit’s objective is to establish and support an ICT strategy in line with the Ministry’s policies and programs. The MTCA’s ICT strategy provides a unique opportunity to rethink tourism products to meet individual demands and satisfy consumer desires. The Unit also develops and maintains high-speed ICT infrastructure and software applications crucial to the MTCA’s success.

Administration Unit

The primary responsibility of the Administration Unit is to provide timely administrative services in records management, office management, messenger and mail support, procurement of office machines and supplies, staff safety and comfort, and facilities management.

Finance & Accounting Unit

The Finance & Accounting Unit manages the payroll and other financial elements of the Ministry. The Unit’s work with the various units of the Ministry to evaluate its financial situation and keeps track of the organization’s planned payments, such as inventory, salary, and other business-related expenses.

Internal Audit Unit

The Internal Audit Unit guarantees that the Ministry’s accounting systems comply with financial rules and regulations.

Human Resource Management Unit

This Unit’s primary goal is to attract, develop, and keep high-quality staff to meet the company’s strategic goals. The department achieves this through planning, human resource development, training, and personnel orientation. It also focuses on employee relations such as industrial relations, health and safety and employee benefits.

The Library is a support unit within the Ministry which strives to stimulate human capacity by the provision of the most current information resources as well as reference and research services.  The resources – digital and print – aim to foster greater knowledge in the areas of tourism, culture, the arts and other related areas leading to an increase in the creative capacity, innovation and competitive advantage of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts.

Vision & Mission

Vision :  The vehicle through which society and the world experience who we are (Trinidad and Tobago).

Mission :  To grow and transform the tourism, culture and heritage resources for the benefit of Trinidad and Tobago.

Core Values 

RESPECT for the rights and dignity of all persons and respect for the wider environment that sustains life.

TRANSPARENCY  through clear and open communication regarding the conduct of business.

ACCOUNTABILITY by accepting responsibility for decisions and actions and disclosing results in an objective manner.

INTEGRITY through a value system of fairness and justice that compels the Ministry to do what is right morally, legally and ethically.

TEAMWORK through collaboration to build and seek consensus rather than individual interests

PROFESSIONALISM  through competence, skill and good judgment in order to achieve the Ministry’s mandate.

INNOVATION  by promoting an environment that fosters continuous improvement and the use of ground-breaking information communications technology (ICT).

CREATIVITY through the use of imaginative or novel ideas to create value for the Tourism and Culture Sectors.

Culture Division

View Grants & Sponsorships

Festival Development

Development of the Cultural Industries

Development of Competencies in the Visual, Literary and Performing Arts

Heritage Preservation

Performing Arts Entities

Job Opportunities

No vacancies at this time, procurement.

Addendum – Request for Proposals – Management and Operation of the Hotel at NAPA

Request for Proposals – Management and Operation of the Hotel at NAPA

Notice of Award – Provision and Servicing of a 15 Cubic Yard Bin at the Manzanilla Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Security Services at the La Brea Pitch Lake Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Security Services at the Manzanilla Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Janitorial Services at the Manzanilla Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Hygiene Services at the Vessigny Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Hygiene Services at the La Brea Pitch Lake Facility

Notice of Award – Provision and Servicing of a 15 Cubic Yard Bin at Vessigny Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Tents and Associated Flooring at the Fort George Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Upgrade Works Phase 1 at the River Estate and Waterwheel Museum

Notice of Award – Provision of Upgrade Works Phase II at the Lopinot Historical Complex

Notice of Award – Provision of Desludging Services to the Wastewater Treatment Plant

Notice of Award – Provision of Services for Generator Works at the Vessigny Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Upgrade Works at Galera Point Lighthouse Facility

Notice of Award – Upgrade Works Phase 1 at the Lopinot Historical Complex

Notice of Award – Urgent Repair Works at the Fort George

Notice of Award – Provision of Emergency Works to Wastewater Treatment Plan at the Manzanilla Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Landscaping Services at the Fort George Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Landscaping Services at the River Estate and Waterwheel Museum

Notice of Award – Provision of Miscellaneous Items and Services for the Asantehene of Ghana

Notice of Award – Provision of Supply of Truck Borne Water to Fort George Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Emergency Plumbing Works at the Manzanilla Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Coconut Trees at the Manzanilla Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Provision of Beautification Upgrades at the Vessigny Beach Facility

Notice of Award – One Time Water Supply at the La Vigie Paramin Lookout Facility

Notice of Award – One Time Water Supply at the Fort George Facility

Notice of Award – Maintenance of Wastewater Treatment Plant at the Las Cuevas Beach

Notice of Award – Maintenance of the Wastewater Treatment Plan at the Manzanilla Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Landscaping Services at the Lopinot Historical Complex

Notice of Award – Installation and Maintenance of Fire Extinguishers at Manzanilla Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Door and Door Lock Replacement at Las Cuevas Beach Facility

Notice of Award – Conceptual Designs at Los Iros

Notice of Award – Conceptual Designs at Las Lapas

Notice of Award – Conceptual Designs at Fort Abercromby

Notice of Award- Provision of Photocopiers for MTCA Head Office

Procurement Schedule

Ministry of Tourism Culture and the Arts

Tourism Trinidad Limited (TTL)

Naparima Bowl

Stollmeyer’s Castle (Castle Killarney)

Southern Academy of the Performing Arts (SAPA)

Queen’s Hall

National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG)

National Carnival Commission

National Academy of the Performing Arts (NAPA)

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This article also features in The Report: Trinidad & Tobago 2020 . Read more about this report and view purchase options in our online store.

Tourism From The Report: Trinidad & Tobago 2020 View in Online Reader

With the ingredients of a typical Caribbean sun, sea and sand destination, an ecotourism centre and MICE gathering point, Trinidad and Tobago has significant potential to develop its tourism sector further. After a slow start following the creation of two organisations that will promote the islands as independent but culturally interconnected international destinations, progress is starting to be seen. Investment in hotel infrastructure by established global operators and the construction of a new terminal at ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago is also hoped to spur additional foreign investment. Furthermore, the development of niche tourism through sporting events and ecotourism is likely to attract a new market of travellers looking for something beyond the traditional beach-centric model. This chapter contains an interview with Randall Mitchell, Minister of Tourism.

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While less prominent on the international tourism radar than other Caribbean destinations such as Barbados or the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago – particularly the latter island – has been able to capture a share of high-spending tourists from the US, the UK and Canada. Tobago’s smaller economy and natural landscape is more orientated towards leisure tourism than Trinidad, while the larger island continues to build on its established meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) segment. The…

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We have a unique way of meeting your expectations!

Maracas beach trip

[vc_row][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_cta h2="" add_button="bottom" btn_title="BOOK NOW" btn_style="3d" btn_color="warning" btn_size="lg" btn_css_animation="none" btn_link="url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.islandexperiencestt.com%2F%3Fpartner_id%3D7PBSA6E%26partner_ticketing_activity_ids%3D167894"]Probably the most relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon in Trinidad, this tour allows for about two and…

Las Cuevas Beach Trip

A visit to this most spectacular beach offers you the opportunity of swimming in the cool waters of the Caribbean Sea as well as one of the finest scenic coastal…

Adventure Hikes

Travel along the north of Trinidad, past gorgeous beaches, forested mountains, and scenic views of the Caribbean Sea on your way to one of the most impressive waterfalls on the…

Rum distillery tour with city tour option

We visit the world famous “Angostura” Rum Distillery where we view their interesting Museum and an amazing Butterfly collection. We then visit the facility and see the bottling process. This…

Zip Lining Experience & Fort George Panoramic View

Glide through the treetops at daring speeds during this exciting ziplining experience on the edge of the Caribbean Sea. Zip along 7 thrilling lines that connect 5 canopy walks and…

Boat adventure to Gasparee cave

For this adventure, visit a magnificent 85 feet underground cave on a small island off the North-Western Coast of Trinidad. A morning of cruising, hiking and exploring!  On board your…

Eco-Cultural Experience

Combination: City of Port of Spain, Maracas Beach & Caroni Wetlands Boat Tour (more…)

Streetfood and live steelband practice

Explore the lively city of Port of Spain by night! Live music from the famous “steelbands” practice, we hop from one “panyard” to the next. Visit a lively night strip…

City tour Port Of Spain

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Experience the best of Trinidad as you visit the highlights of Port of Spain and Maracas Bay. From the lively streets of the city to the breath-taking countryside, explore a…

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Bird life is particularly abundant in Trinidad and this boat tour provides a delightful introduction with appeal to bird-watching enthusiasts as well as those just interested in the outdoors. (more…)

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Tour along the Atlantic Coast to the little remote village of Speyside. Board a glass bottom boat to “Little Tobago”, and then dock for an easy hike and some bird…

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Spend one day in our exciting sister island Trinidad, just 15 minutes flight away! The choice is yours – select a combination of the following attractions - rainforest and hummingbirds…

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Meet The Team

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Favourable Terms

Interest subsidy for new and restructured loans of 5.0 percentage points provided by the Government and funded by the Tobago Tourism Development Fund.

Long Term Investment

Long maturity period of fifteen (15) years provided by the financial institutions.

Enhanced Cash Flow

Comfort that usage could be enhanced with the change in the terms and conditions of the lending.

ABOUT THE FUND

In response to the difficulties, including falling visitor arrivals, faced by some hotel and hotel-related businesses in Tobago following the 2008-2009 global financial crisis, the Government instituted a framework for maintaining the lending operations of banks for the tourism sector.

In June 2012, the Government established the Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Business Development Limited (TTTBDL) to administer the Tobago Tourism Development Fund and assigned the responsibility for managing the TTTBDL to the Export-Import Bank of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (EXIMBANK).

FUND CRITERIA

Established

Operating as a business in the tourism sector for three (3) years in Trinidad or Tobago.

Existing Loans

We are targeting businesses currently servicing existing debt for at least twelve (12) months over the past three (3) years.

Job Creation is a key component of our efforts in developing tourism. Applicants should be employing a workforce of at least five (5) persons.

• Learn more about COVID-19 travel requirements for Trinidad here .

• T20 World Cup in Trinidad
• Virtual Tours
• Play Big in Trinidad
• Trinidad Festivals & Events
• Street Food in Port of Spain, Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• Indo-Trinidadian Food in Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• Breakfast and Sunday Lunch in Paramin, Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• Mayaro, Brasso Seco & Maracas Bay in Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• A Taste of Toco Food Tour in Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• Tour Trinidad TV: Episode One
• Tour Trinidad TV: Episode Two
• Tour Trinidad TV: Episode Three
• Tour Trinidad TV: Episode Four
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[Updated] Training agreement signed for Tobago tourism operators

THE TOBAGO Tourism Agency Ltd (TTAL) and the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) have signed a three-year service agreement aimed at developing standards of excellence through certification in the island’s tourism sector.

The Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Industry Certification (TTTIC) is intended to give tourism operators the opportunity to improve their offerings in keeping with national standards, particularly in the accommodation, tour and transport service sectors.

At the signing ceremony at Pleasant House, Scarborough, on May 8, TTAL’s interim CEO Phillip Robinson said the TTTIC programme, which will be free, sets the bar for the standard of quality that tourism operators must achieve and maintain.

This includes standards of safety and security, adequate training and facilities for staff, operational requirements, environmental considerations, responsible marketing and best practices for managing complaints, among others.

Robinson said, “Tourism operators who register for the voluntary programme are thus presented with a unique opportunity to increase their overall awareness of these standards while gaining valuable insight into the different areas of their operations that must be addressed to meet those standards.”

He said by establishing a benchmark for minimum standards of quality among tourism operators, TTTIC also helps to set the bar for what visitors can expect when they come to Tobago.”

He said word of mouth is still an effective marketing tool.

“When our visitors leave this island fulfilled, it means that they leave with a positive story to tell, and that one story has the potential to attract new visitors and may even encourage repeat visitors as well.”

Robinson urged operators to embrace the opportunity.

“Do not miss out on this opportunity which can help set you apart from the rest.”

Becoming TTTIC-certified, he said, can open new doors to further improve business.

“So...(this) is a requirement for other services and offerings from TTAL, including grants, reimbursements and even marketing on our website, which attracted over 450,000 visitors in 2023.”

He said TTAL has also offered tourism operators additional training in first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).

Robinson also had some advice for visitors and customers.

“When you see the TTTIC mark, know that it gives you a level of assurance that the tourism operator who holds that mark has gone through the process for achieving the minimum standards for quality.”

TTBS executive director Jose Edwardo Trejo said TTTIC is the first and only tourism certification programme in the Caribbean developed and jointly executed by a national bureau of standards and a tourism authority.

He said since 2018, some 64 certifications were issued in Tobago, primarily in the accommodation sector.

“We urge all tourism operators in Tobago to add to the statistic by embracing TTTIC and striving for excellence in every aspect of their operations,” Trejo said.

Saying the significance and value of Tobago’s tourism industry cannot be overstated, Trejo said the sector is a vital driver for economic growth by attracting investments, fostering employment opportunities and nurturing local businesses.

He said the relaunch of the TTTIC is significant for several reasons.

“It raises and standardises the quality of our tourism products and services, instilling confidence in visitors and locals alike.

“TTTIC also provides assurance to visitors, guaranteeing that legal requirements and quality standards are meticulously upheld.”

Trejo said the programme is an ideal way to showcase to the world, Tobago’s tourism products and services.

Yannicka Brown, Standards Officer II, Certification Division, TTBS; Wendell Walker, Director, Product Development and Destination Management, TTAL; and Rodney Ramnath, Manager, Certification Division, TTBS, also spoke.

This story was originally published with the title "TTAL, Bureau of Standards partner to improve Tobago tourism sector" and has been adjusted to include additional details. See original post below.

The Trinidad and Tobago Industry Certification (TTIC) is intended to give tourism operators the opportunity to improve their offerings in keeping with national standards, particularly in the accommodation, tour and transport service sectors.

At the signing ceremony at Pleasant House, Scarborough, on May 8, TTAL’s interim CEO Phillip Robinson said the TTIC programme sets the bar for the standard of quality that tourism operators must achieve and maintain in their respective operations.

He said by establishing a benchmark for minimum standards of quality among tourism operators, TTIC also helps to set the bar for what visitors can expect when they come to Tobago.”

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Business and Investment

Tourism investment & business development.

The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago offers a suite of tourism investment incentives to owners/operators of tourism projects which can contribute substantially to the development of the tourism sector.

There are two  (2) categories of incentives offered:

• Legislative Incentives – incentives which are stipulated in the Tourism Development Act 2000.
• Non-Legislative Incentives- these include projects that have received Cabinet Approval for its execution.

Legislative Incentives- Incentives Under the TDA

The Tourism Development Act, 2000 (TDA) was introduced to support the development of the tourism industry in Trinidad and Tobago. The Act provides for benefits to be granted to the owners/operators of various types of tourism projects, once these projects have the potential of contributing significantly to the growth and expansion of the industry.

You can download the act by clicking here .

The TDA provides benefits for various types of tourism projects, provided that these projects contribute to the sustainable development of the Trinidad and Tobago tourism industry and the achievement of national tourism objectives. The benefits that are offered are as follows:

• Tax Benefits
• Customs and Excise Duty Exemptions

Investment Opportunities

Edan k properties- south trunk road hotel site.

Internationally Branded Hotel: 2 ½ to 3 Star Level This Concept could include: ~ 70-80 rooms ~ Extended stay wing ~ Conference space with executive meeting rooms ~ Facilities such as Restaurant, Bar, Business Centre, Fitness Centre & Swimming Pool This site is located on the eastern side of the South Trunk Road, La Romaine in south-western Trinidad. With views of the Gulf of Paria, the hotel site size is approximately three (3) acres (10,500 m2). The area is largely retail/commercial and the site itself is part of a small business park that will see entirely new-build construction. Supporting amenities such as fast food, casual and fine dining, shopping and entertainment are within a radius of 10-15 minutes. Access to all utilities is readily available such as electricity, water and sewage and telecommunications. The South Trunk Road is the gateway to the southern energy belt. The businesses located in the region are involved in oil and gas exploration and production, LNG and the vast array of supply and logistics support activities that are part of this sector. As a result, foreign and expatriate traffic is quite high throughout the year. SITE DETAILS ~ Access to all utilities readily available.  

Edan K Properties- Gulf View Hotel Site

PROJECT CONCEPT Internationally Branded Business Hotel: 3 Star Level This Concept could include: ~ 60-100 rooms ~ Conference Space and Executive Meeting Rooms ~ Restaurant ~ Bar ~ Fitness Centre The property sits on approximately 1.8 acres of land located in a prime commercial area in southern Trinidad. Trinidad and Tobago is a popular venue for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Events (MICE), with Trinidad, the larger of the two islands, recognized as the commercial and entertainment centre of the Caribbean. The location of this property is ideally suited as a 3 Star business hotel and conference centre, particularly as south Trinidad is a business hub for the local energy industry. Business visitors can easily visit several shopping/entertainment venues, within close proximity such as the popular Gulf City Mall, which is within walking distance. Other nearby attractions include fine dining restaurants, cinemas and cultural shows at the South Academy of Performing Arts. The possible room capacity potential is 60-100 rooms of a 3 star level. Outline approvals already exist for commercial development on the site. Edan K Properties Limited is seeking investors interested in leasing or joint venture partnerships.   ~ Approvals: Outline approvals exist for commercial development. ~ Developer: Edan K. Properties Ltd. ~ Seeking: Investors interested in leasing; Joint-Venture partners.

Eco-Lodge on the Ortoire River-New Mayaro Project

PROJECT CONCEPT Eco Lodge – 2 to 3 Star Level Range This Concept could include: ✓ Plantation style ✓ 20-30 rooms ✓ Detached cottages on the property ✓ Facilities such as a restaurant and viewing deck ✓ Nature Trails, River Boat Rides, Bird-watching Located on the western side of the Manzanilla Mayaro Road, this site offers several beautiful and unique locations for a world-class eco lodge. With the Ortoire River meandering like a serpent through the pristine virgin forest, this site is a nature-cover’s paradise offering the best of both worlds: Close to civilization but tucked away from trappings of modern development. The gentle rolling hills and lush green vegetation full of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife provide a perch for viewing the rich bio-diversity that Mayaro possesses. The topography offers views of the Atlantic Ocean in all its magnificence and will lend itself to a variety of experiences such as mountain biking, nature walks, bird watching, and river boat rides among many others. All of this is possible within minutes of the Mayaro town centre which provides all the services and amenities that a visitor could possibly require.

Cape Development- Lagon Doux Resort Hotel

PROJECT CONCEPT Branded Resort Hotel: 4 Star Level This Concept could include: ~ 150-300 room hotel with potential for expansion ~ Luxury residential ~ Golf course This 510-acre site of Cape Development is located in Mayaro on the southeastern coast of Trinidad. It borders the majestic Atlantic Ocean to the east, the lush tropical Victoria Mayaro Forest Reserve to the west, the Lagon Doux River to the northeast, and the Atlantic West Residential Development to the south. The almost uninterrupted coconut tree-lined Mayaro Guayaguayare Road passes through the site separating an 86-acre block with a 1.1km stretch of unspoilt sandy beach from the rest of the estate. The Cape Development site is relatively flat near the sea and undulating west of the Mayaro Guayaguayare Road allowing for a view of the Atlantic. The estate can be divided into five sub-communities: the shoreline; the estuarine along the mouth of the Lagon Doux River and Mangrove Pond; the wetland/marshland adjacent to the river; the remnant coconut plantation on both sides of the main road; and the inland woodland forest. Close proximity to the historically and ecologically rich Point Radix and Nariva Swamp respectively, to the north, also add to the appeal of the location. Mayaro is also known for its eco-activities and archaeological sites of which Lagon Doux is home to one. The estate is 1 ½ hours from Piarco International Airport and is traversed by the main arterial road that leads to the south east of Trinidad. In addition, Mayaro, the town of Rio Claro to the west and Guayaguayare to the south provide essential services. Lagon Doux on the Mayaro coastline is welcome as a destination since it is not currently served by a major resort. SITE DETAILS & APPROVALS ~ Water, electricity, telephone and sewage are easily accessible to the estate. ~ Town and Country Planning Outline Permission was granted for: Two (2) 300 - room hotels, sports and leisure facilities including an 18-hole golf course and 300 residential villas. ~ Town and Country Planning Final Approval has been granted for 129 housing and town-house lots on the beach-front.

Ben Deloraine Nature Reserve-Point Radix, Mayaro

PROJECT CONCEPT Boutique Hotel This could include: ~ 150 -300 rooms The Ben Deloraine Nature Reserve is located in the Point Radix plateau on the south east coast of Trinidad along the Manzanilla and Mayaro peninsula. The property consists of 300 acres of private virgin forest plus 50 acres of cultivated mature forest and fruit trees. The peaceful surroundings, private beach as well as numerous nature trails attract the environmentally conscious and is ideal for nature seekers and eco-friendly guests. Six uniquely styles cottages exist on the estate which have an overall room capacity potential of 150-300. Nearby attractions include the popular Mayaro beach, fishing, biking, hiking, camping, river, bees and bird watching, all of which can be accessed within 5 to 10 minutes driving time from the property. DEVELOPER & TYPE OF PARTNERSHIPS ✓ Joint-Venture partners with ability to bring both equity and financing; ✓ Hotel operator with established international or regional brand; experience with boutique operation; leisure and eco product.

Beach Resort Hotel- New Mayaro Project

PROJECT CONCEPT Resort Hotel: 2 ½ to 3 ½ Star Level Range This could include: ~ 60-80 rooms (with land for expansion) ~ Beach Club ~ Restaurant ~ Beach Bar Located on the eastern side of the Manzanilla Mayaro Road, this 50-acre site sits on one of the last remaining uninterrupted stretches of the beach coastline. The proposed hotel site of 5-7 acres has been strategically chosen at the southern boundary of the larger parcel, immediately bordering the beautiful, sandy beach. Potential investors will be able to negotiate land for expansion and will benefit from planned resort residential development together with supporting space for retail – supermarket, deli, pharmacy, cafes and casual dining. The site enjoys proximity to all major utilities and its location has direct access to the main artery. Guests will be only minutes away from the Mayaro town centre and its wide array of services and amenities. Mayaro offers exciting and authentic experiences such pulling seine with the local fisherfolk, hiking, bird watching, and sampling local cuisine.  

Doing Business in Trinidad & Tobago

Under the Tourism Development Act there are various benefits.

TAX BENEFITS

Customs and excise duty exemptions, categories of tourism projects.

• Tourism Accommodation Projects
• Tourism Ancillary Facilities
• Tourism Infrastructure
• Tourism Transport Service

WHAT IS TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO TOURISM ACCOMMODATION UPGRADE PROJECT (TAUP)?

The Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Accommodation Upgrade Project (TAUP) is an initiative which provides an incentive to owners/operators of tourism accommodation properties to upgrade their facilities. The incentive is in the form of a partial reimbursement grant and is available to eligible small-medium sized properties with 1-150 guestrooms, that have been in operation for four years and over.

The incentive is intended to assist owners/operators in improving the tourism accommodation plant to a first-class level, to meet and/or exceed the Trinidad and Tobago Standard Requirements for Tourist Accommodation.

This improvement in room stock quality is expected to enhance the overall competitiveness of the destination’s tourism product.

The incentives under the TAUP are administered in two (2) categories as follows:

• Upgrade of Small Approved Tourism Properties in Trinidad and Tobago (Properties with 1-5 guestrooms) : Eligible properties can receive a 40% reimbursement of expenditure of cost of work per room up to a maximum reimbursement of $25,000 per room in Trinidad and $30,000 per room in Tobago, up to a limit of $150,000 for upgrade works to the interior or exterior of the property.
• Trinidad and Tobago Hotel and Guesthouse Room Stock Upgrade Programme (Properties with 6-150 guestrooms): Eligible properties can receive a 50% reimbursement of expenditure of cost of work per room up to a maximum reimbursement of $25,000 per room in Trinidad and $30,000 per room in Tobago, up to a limit of $1,500,000 for upgrade works to the interior or exterior of the property.

INVESTMENT CLIMATE

Trinidad and Tobago is endowed with characteristics that make the country a preferred investment destination. The attributes of the investment climate include:

• Cost structure that is one of the most competitive in the region;
• Centre for Education – University of the West Indies, University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), Tamana In Tech Park;
• Diverse and differentiated tourism product anchored by a unique culture and lifestyle;
• Evolution of Trinidad as a regional business, financial, diplomatic and judicial hub;
• Full range of support services – information technology, telecoms, construction, training, business and accounting, research and testing;
• Growing awareness regionally as an attractive shopping destination;
• Home to leading multinational companies;
• Investment grade credit rating by Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s;
• Location of Trinidad and Tobago in the southern extreme of the hurricane belt;
• No foreign exchange controls and stable exchange rate;
• Political stability;
• Regional airline hub and modern international airport;
• Relatively low utility costs; e.g. energy, telecommunications, water and sewerage;
• Competitive labour costs;
• Stable investor-friendly economy;
• Strong domestic demand for resort product;
• World class construction companies, ancillary services (surveying, valuation, design) and utilities.

NY School Worker Advances Suit Over Travel for Jewish Holy Days

By Patrick Dorrian

New Rochelle City School District will face the bulk of a Ashkenazi Jewish woman’s claims that she was removed as its medical director because she traveled to Trinidad and Tobago for religious reflection.

The ruling Tuesday is the latest to address how far courts may probe a worker’s religious beliefs when one sues for alleged religious discrimination. That question has played a significant role in the disposition by federal courts of the wave of job bias suits filed in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and employer vaccination mandates.

Judges have a limited function in assessing whether religious beliefs are ...

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