Overview
** TRINIDAD **
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In Port of Spain you will have the time of your life. The Trini people know how to party, and are always down for a good time. I went in the summer and the different groups were having amazing parties to launch their costumes for the carnival season the next year. The culture is amazing the people are full of life and you must have Roti while there. Plus the Trini accent sounds like someone is singing to you constantly. I’m definitely wanting to go back again.
Trinidad and Tobago is the birthplace of CARNIVAL! If you don’t already know, carnival takes place the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, and is deemed the greatest party on earth! During carnival locals, and people from all around the world participate by playing mas. Everyone dresses up in beautiful costumes, and dance in the streets, to commemorate emancipation. If you haven’t experienced carnival, I strongly encourage you to do so, at least once. Choose a band, and buy a costume. Popular bands include; Tribe, Bliss, Yuma, Carnival Rogue, Harts, just to name a few. Note…carnival can become very expensive, between flights, accommodations, costumes, and fetes (parties). Costumes can typically range between $600 and $1300 USD. Also, fetes can on average be $100+ USD. Most of these experiences are all inclusive, so although they could be quite expensive, usually food, and drinks are included, and unlimited! Also note; costumes, accommodations, and fetes sell out extremely quickly, and most times, several months before carnival–so plan ahead! Choose your band, and parties, and book accommodation in Port of Spain (i.e the Hyatt Regency, Hilton, Raddison Hotel or private guest houses), to make access to all the festivities much easier. Now book a trip to Trinidad to experience the best carnival, ever!
Trinidad & Tobago is by far one of the most beautiful islands I’ve visited. From the people, food, culture, and scenery. I go every other year for carnival season and I must say if I could afford to go each year I would. If you want to experience carnival trust when I say planning a year in advance is not crazy. Make sure you purchase your flights well in advance because that will be the bulk of your expenses if you wait too long. Most costume deposits are usually due by September you will be traveling the upcoming February for carnival. There aren’t many hotels in Trinidad so we purchase an Airbnb that will accommodate all in our group which is usually 15 ppl. The Mas band we play with each trip is Ronnie and Cairo which in fact won first place in 2017. Which was my first time playing Mas and traveling to Trinidad for carnival. If you play mas please keep in mind that the cost of your costume will be in TT so you will need to convert the price into US dollars. Our package includes the costume (top, bottom, headpiece, back piece, arms and leg pieces), goodie bags, shirt for Shrove Monday, breakfast, lunch and snacks carnival Tuesday, unlimited liquor, security, and restrooms while on de road. If you don’t have transportation arranged prior to your trip then please use taxis. There is no uber or lyft on the island also the one thing we did learn is being on time isn’t trini time except on Carnival Tuesday (you must be on time or you will get left). Have a plan because that week is very busy so if you purchase fetes beforehand that would be best. If you want to visit the beach make sure to check out Maracas Bay, where you have to have King Bake & Shark. If you enjoy the steel drum please go to the panyard the sound is like no other. Shades fetes are always popping and the avenue with all the bars is another place to go and have a good time. The street food you can’t go without it’s a must-have….from roti, doubles, corn soup, and palori. Make sure you play J’ouvert’ which is early Sunday morning! It starts around 5:00 am with crazy energy everywhere. We play with Dirty Dozens and their package includes the shirt, breakfast, unlimited liquor and party before J’ouvert starts. Oh, and we can’t forget all the mud, paint and powda that gets all over you. Now that you’ve partied all weekend and experienced J’ouvert and Shrove Monday its time for CARNIVAL TUESDAY!!!!!! Make sure you have comfortable shoes, lots of glitters, sparkling fishnets, drink plenty of water, and enjoy the beauty of carnival. If you want a relaxing time before heading back to the states then leave for Tobago Ash Wednesday. We stay in an Airbnb and enjoy Scarborough beach, the glass bottom boat, and dinner at the Seahorse. If you can’t tell I love Trinidad & Tobago and once you visit you will fall in LOVE TOO!
Ariapita Avenue in Woodbrook or the “De Avenue” known by locals is where all the bar and night clubs are located. Some parties are all inclusive so it is very easy to drink the night away
I went to Trinidad and Tobago to visit family. While in Tobago we went to the infamous restaurant in a tree ( Jemma’s Treehouse) and I have breadfruit pie for the first time and if you don’t have it once in your life YOU HAVE NOT LIVED! The doubles and aloopie man outside of the Tobago airport is hands down the best. Although the man outside the port of Spain airport gave him a run for his money. The ox tail soup, curry and roti, manicou (for the brave), pelau, and bake and shark are must haves! Trinidad and Tobago is home to some of the finest west Indian food.
We went to Trinidad on a couples trip and it was literally perfect. The local food was great and the people were an absolute joy. We spent 3 days in Trinidad and took a day trip Tobago – its a must that you visit Tobago! While in Trinidad we celebrated a friends birthday the people were so welcoming and really helped us bring in a dear friends birthday like never before. Everywhere we had food was amazing! You have to try Richards Bake and Shark. We had never had bake or shark prior to this trip and ended up stoping by everyday for a quick fix! (thinking about it now has us looking for return flights!
We stayed just outside of where Carnival is held.(sadly we couldn’t get our schedules to align for carnival but its on the list for sure☺️) Our AirBNB was perfect easy access to everything, hospitable host and hella amenities.. 10/10 would recommend!
Here is some footage from our stay:
Tobago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFWvV9-Rj1o&list=PLJdwuSDCHOizGW8_b-0q-Ykcux_cbSqLa&index=6&t=0s
Trinidad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ayxSeqvQsc&list=PLJdwuSDCHOizGW8_b-0q-Ykcux_cbSqLa&index=8&t=0s
AirBNB:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qzv8lCfKaUQ&list=PLJdwuSDCHOizGW8_b-0q-Ykcux_cbSqLa&index=7&t=0s
I went to Trinidad for carnival was had a blast
I stayed at the royal palm hotel. That was ok. House keeping sucked but the place served its purpose. It was cheaper than the bigger hotel but still quite pricey. Its close to the Savannah which was great for carnival day. The food in Trinidad was amazing. The cost of thing was reasonable. I didnt do much adventure as my stay was to just party. The locals are nice and full of vibes. Its a definite must to experience.
Welcome to Trinidad! Trinidad is an island full on vibes, pace, music, and good food especially during carnival time. It’s one of the biggest carnival in the Caribbean and this island is the Mecca of Caribbean Soca music. Carnival is usually during February/early March time period an usually last about 2 weeks of festivities before Lent preparations. It’s my favorite time of year because it’s the time you see all the best costumes, flourish in the nice sunny island weather, enjoy the fun theme parties, eat the most delicious foods and Oh yes!! Fete out your heart to the sweet Soca music. This year, I last minute traveled to reset my “Good Vibes” for 2019 and to see my friends and family.
For planning, I recommend planning in advance with a friend or carnival concierge if you’re not a carnival veteran like myself because Trinidad carnival is a very expensive experience. It takes about a year of planning especially for housing, costumes, and to pay for fetes. Carnival is an expensive love, a tedious packing of all your essentials, and it takes a nice budget to organize for all the events. I recommend a fitness workout prior to carnival because it’s the longest dancing marathon that you will ever endure in the hot sun so prep your body with exercise, vitamins, and fluid’s accordingly.
Trinidad & Tobago is one of my favorite places to visit. Everything about it seems special. While in Trinidad I visited the bamboo cathedral, the La Brea pitch lake and the Caroni Swamp. Trinidad is the party central of the Caribbean with what is known as Carnival being its grand finale. The local food is excellent and I highly recommend trying the dish called doubles, trust me you wont regret. The majority of the population is Black and Indian so traveling while black would not be an issue. You would definitely fit right in. So get ready for a fun filled vacation, I highly recommend Trinidad.
I love Trinidad with all my heart. America Airlines flies there from Miami. There aren’t many hotels in Trinidad or resorts, i always stay with family, but there are many Airbnb’s. Warning DO NOT pack or wear anything camouflage or army print in Trinidad. That’s against the law. Trinidad and Tobago is the richest island in the Caribbean so the country is more advance than the other islands in the Caribbean due to natural resources like gas and oil. So yes you can drink the water. The beaches aren’t that beautiful in Trinidad but the main beach you have to travel to in Trinidad is Maracus. The ride to the beach is down a curvy road through the mountains and the view is incredible. Once at the beach, you have to try Shark and Bake or King Fish it you don’t want to eat shark. It’s prob the best sandwich you will ever have. One tip is to add a little of all the toppings they have in the buffet in your sandwich. Don’t miss out on this. If you want to go hiking there is Maracus waterfall which is a little hike that leads to a gushing waterfall. Best time to go is in the rainy season as the waterfall will be at its strongest. You can hang around queens park Savannah and check out all the history houses nearby the park like Stollmeyers castle and the Parliament (red house) if you are interested in going to Tobago you can catch the T&T Spirit ferry boat from Port of Spain to Tobago. It’s about a 2 and 1/2 hr ride and you can take a car on the ferry. It cost $50TT or about $7-9US dollars to catch the ferry. But beware the ride can be bumpy and you can get sea sick. Tobago beaches are beautiful. When it comes to food, you must try, Doubles, KFC, (yes Kentucky fries chicken) curry chicken and roti, just to name a few. The food is great in Trinidad! Night life is awesome too, but always be vigilant and safe. There are so many things to do from shopping to partying, but the best time to go is for Carnival which is usually in Feb or March. You have to go check it out!
Trinidad was an absolutely amazing experience. I went last year for Carnival and had the time of my life! I played mas with Bliss band. The costumes are very pricey- A couple thousand dollars- USD, but absolutely worth it. My friends and I hired a photographer and a makeup artist out there as well to complete the look.
Some suggestions I have is to make sure you order a car service during your stay there. There is a lot of walking and several streets are blocked off during this time. For food I suggest doubles and my favorite Bake and Shark!
Trinidad was a really amazing experience. At first I was little nervous about it. The was mainly due to fact, I stayed in a hotel when I’m more comfortable with an Air Bnb. I choose to stay at the Hyatt Regency because it had a roof top infinity was breathtaking views of the water. The food and rum punch at this hotel was superb. It was Trinidad and Tobago independence weekend when I went, so there wasn’t a shortage of things to do. Ariapata Avenue is the place to be with all the locals and try the local drink Puncheon. It’s a little strong so go light on it. Also if you go to the beach in Trinidad you can get Hennessey snow cones. My travel crew and I didn’t have any issues while there. If you go on the ave, I would suggest going with a group. It’s shoulder to shoulder with people and can get hectic. But it must be experienced for the culture. ✊?
Trinidad during Carnival season is expensive but so lit. If you’re looking to play mas (costume), some popular bands are Tribe, Fantasy, Yuma. I played with Fantasy but next time I want to do Tribe. If you’re trying to party make sure you get your party tickets before you go. They’ll likely be sold out if you try to pay when you get there. Maracas is probably the most popular beach. Make sure you get your bake and shark there (with all the condiments)!
Edit: I didn’t try to click “Where to Stay” but since it won’t let me change it I’ll just add it. Woodbrook is the perfect location for Carnival. It’s close to most parties and walking distance to the Carnival route.
The best time to travel to Trinidad is during “Carnival” week- the big parade when you play “mask” in elaborate costumes. Trinidad’s Carnival is top 3 in the world, so trust me when I say go during this time. Trinidadians really know how to party, well at least during Carnival time. The party does not stop, they will go for days so be sure you’re hydrated and well-rested so you won’t pass out.
Find a tribe to play “mask” with because it was better being apart of the parade rather than watching from the sidelines. The costumes come with unlimited food and liquor which is needed since the parade will go around the Island (12+ hours of loud music, whining, soca dancing) and the prices of the costume range from $200-$2000 depending on how extravagant the costume is.
The next day people will travel to Maracas Beach. The views on the way there are so scenic and gorgeous because you travel through the mountains. Be sure to taste the infamous “bake&shark” and roti dishes. The Trinidadian food was incredible, you will gain a few pounds from wanting to eat the food all the time.
Nightlife is on point, as far as fun and being entertaining, only thing is they’re hole in the wall clubs lol.
I fell in love with Trinidadian food while I was here. I went and stayed with a friend who’s family is from Trinidad. Her family introduced me to Doubles, from a food truck in Trinidad. I didn’t take their warning that it would be spicy– I love spicy food and rarely trust others’ caution of spice. I should have listened… but regardless, it was delicious.
I recently visited Trinidad (Port of Spain) and stayed at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad.This country has beautiful scenic views and diverse culture. The hotel we stayed at had a very friendly staff with modern rooms and a infinity pool that over looked the Caribbean sea.There are a lot of things to do in Trinidad like go to Maracas beach and try the Bake and Shark.Take a tour of the city and visit the Emperor Valley Zoo and Royal Botanical Garden.If your trying do water sports or see the Nylon Pool you need to book a flight for Tobago in advance. Those flights sell out quickly and I was unable to see Tobago but I was told its worth the flight. There is section of the city call the Avenue where its tons of restaurants and night life.I would convert your money ahead of time to their Trinidad and Tobago dollar which is referred to as the “TT”.Arranging transportation to and from the airport and around the city is a must .Overall I had an amazing time if your trying to RELAX and experience authentic culture and food Trinidad is the place for you.
Trinidians are people who know how to party, after all they are known for having the greatest show on earth Carnival. Trinidad is a must visit island it’s known for its exciting nightlife and it’s amazing local dishes. Must try their curry roti and the famous bake and shark. The island is always active no matter the time of night you must find a bar open or find people liming and enjoying themselves. If you are interested in experiencing their culture then you should definitely visit in feb/march. That’s when they have their carnival. Is party after party. Or as the trini ppl say fete after fete after fete.
I visited Trinidad mainly Port of Spain on a trip with some friends with college.
First of all, any trip to the island needs to include going to Maracas Bay beach to get some Shark and Bake from Richard’s Shark and Bake. If you don’t, then you can’t really say that you were there.
Chaud Cafe & Wine Bar is a nice place to go when you’re feeling a little bit fancy, but not wanting to pay fancy prices.
You can’t go wrong on any night by going to any of the bars/clubs on Ariapita Ave (The Ave) but we found ourselves at CoCo Lounge and The Hookah Factory.
Enjoying a nice lunch at The Breakfast Shed and walking it off in the Promenade across the street where you can people watch those coming and going from work as well as those shopping in the small malls located there.
Go very early to De Boss Ah Soup and enjoy it in Queen’s Park Savannah.
If you like to lime and fete (drink and party) and want to take in soca music, this is the place to go. I had the pleasure of going during carnival week, where played mas (wore a costume) attended fete after fete, where we danced from the wee hours of the night to blazing sun of noon, where we followed trucks down the road dancing and drinking with paint and powder being splashed all around us. If that sounds like your cup of tea, this is the place to go. You must attend during carnival season (the week before Ash Wednesday).
Along with the party aspect, lets talk food. You can literally eat all day. Macaroni Pie, Roti, Chow Mein, Pepper Shrimp, Double and my favourite, Bake & Shark (I mean this is so good, its is unreal), take a stroll on Avenue Rd, take in the sounds of sweet soca music and eating so fingerlicking food.
Take a ride to Maracas Beach on after Carnival week. Sit on the beach and eat some good food. Richard’s world famous bake and shark is literally the best thing I have eaten in a long long time. It’s a small little place that is usually packed with people waiting to eat. Wait in line, it is well worth it. The beach is just ok. not the best you will ever go to and the ride is a bit far from Port of Spain but a day trip is fun.
Of course I cannot forget to mention Tobago – at $42 Flight (roundtrip) to get there for some real beach time and relaxation. Hit up Pigeon Point for some beach time and food, or grab a boat from there to the Nylon Pool where you can swim in waist high water (which is very warm). It is close to Buccoo Reef, an area full of coral reefs so swimming there is amazing. Make sure you have their special dish, Crap & Dumpling.
All in all, great place to travel, eat and party.
Being from Trinidad & Tobago is a pleasure that is all mine. One of the main things that make T&T so special is the number culinary experiences you can have on this small twin island nation. Pelau, our version of rice and peas which is unlike any other in the Caribbean. Rated one of the best sandwiches in the world, Bake & Shark on Maracas Beach is a must. With our rich history of East Indian culture you can get ‘bess’ curry from any roti shop.
Hop over to Tobago and have some curry crab and dumplings or a dose of blue food (ground provisions) with a savory stew chicken and you will know where Winston Duke/M’Baku built that solid mass of an amazing body.
If you are lucky enough to know local and get invited to their for Sunday lunch please wear your stretchy pants.. Macaroni pie, callaloo (similar to a creamed spinach dip of goodness), potato salad, vegetable rice, baked chicken and if you are blessed, a stew pork with tons of ginger… oh yeah and a few pieces lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers for good measure. You will definitely need a nap after lunch….
If you want to experience the diversity of a country through its local cuisine, Trinidad & Tobago is the place for you.
Trinidad and Tobago my hometown best island in the world Lol joking.Food so good
Doubles from south de bess! Kfc also real good. Maracas beach where u get original bake and shark!You have to go to experience Trini. tobago also great to visit. nylon pool. Boat tour awesome!
Stag best beer in the world! Also
Headed to Carnival 2018 in Feb so much performances! Great soca songs. Machel Montano
Top soca artist in Trini right now! I recommend anyone who hasnt went to trinidad and tobago to go its a must and Carnival in Tnt is the greatest show in the world!
Trinidad has some really good food. Beef patties, curry, bake and shark. The traditional food didn’t leave me in awe. The KFC there is what really wowed me! I mean KFC, really? I don’t eat KFC but after hearing from so many people how good it was, I had to try it. Let’s just say I can’t wait to go back and have some fried chicken at their KFC.
The intent of my trip to Trinidad was for none the other than Carnival. Carnival was of course amazing, but there was so much to do beyond carnival. The national parks to hike, waterfalls, Maracas and many other beaches, and excursions, are a few of these. I did a girls trip to Trinidad and was a blast. In addition we took a ferry to Tobago which was by far my favorite. So much adventure and beautiful views.