Airport and Transport
Public transportation in Trinidad is based on a bus system, operated by PTSC and many taxis and 'MaxiTaxis' (Mini Van). A license plate for a taxi starts always with the 'H' for hired. The recently introduced 'call a cab' taxi service will provide further services. Fares are regulated by the various taxi associations, and are usually inexpensive, but you should confirm the fare with the driver before starting for your destination.
To get to the Hyatt Regency Trinidad (Conference venue) from Piarco International airport by car turn left on to the Churchill Roosevelt Highway, continue traveling north-west along the highway for about 14 miles/22 km heading towards the city of Port of Spain. As you enter the city, the highway leads to Wrightson Road. After passing the cruise terminal the hotel is located on your left as the entrance to Dock Road next to the Port Authority.
For further information on transport in Trinidad and Tobago please click here
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Taxi Services
Bookings for taxi service should be made with the Dispatcher at the Custom’s Exit or with a Taxi Driver.
Taxi Drivers are uniformed in white shirts, black or blue trousers with yellow photo identification passes to take you to any destination of choice. Taxi services are 24 hours daily and Tariff Board information is available from the Dispatcher.
· Piarco Airport Taxi Cooperative Society: 868-669-1689
· Dispatcher Contact Number: 868-669-0282
Taxis are available outside the Arrivals area; a courteous Taxi Dispatcher is there to assist you. Also, a taxi booking can be made when making reservations at the Hyatt Hotel.
Some reputable Taxi Services:
Kalloo’s Taxi Service
- Port of Spain, 31 French St
1-868-622-9073 - Piarco International Airport
1-868-669-5673
kalloos@tstt.net.tt
Bacchus Taxi Service
- Port of Spain, 31 French St
Air Bridge
There is a regular air service, or air bridge, between Trinidad and Tobago, with the first of roughly 20 daily flights leaving Piarco International Airport at 6am.
Banking/Currency
The local currency is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar. US dollars are widely accepted at an approximate rate of TT $6 to US $1 and you can find rate information at local banks, or the daily newspapers. Euro's and the Pound Sterling (GBP) are not as widely accepted as US dollars.
Traveler's cheques and international credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and malls.
ATM machines are located at the airport, banks, malls, cities and towns.
Climate and Clothing
Trinidad and Tobago has a warm, sunny climate year round. The average daytime temperature is about 28 degrees Celsius.
The islands have two main seasons, the Dry Season, from January to May and the Rainy Season, from June to December. In the Rainy Season, mornings are usually sunny, followed by rainy afternoons and fair nights. During this time, the general rainfall pattern is interrupted by days of brilliant sunshine.
Travelers are also cautioned against wearing military or camouflage clothing, as it is illegal in Trinidad and Tobago. Persons dressed in camouflage risk being detained by Customs officials and having the garments confiscated.
Electricity
In Trinidad and Tobago the electricity supply is 110/220 volts. If this voltage is different from your home country adaptors can be purchased from local hardware and electrical stores or brought from home.
Female Travelers
Female travelers may attract a lot of attention as within the culture men are not shy about voicing their appreciation for women. Don't be alarmed if men direct a "psssst" or sucking sound at you, this is called "sooting". It usually signals that the man considers you attractive. Walking away or a firm "No" should do the trick.
Insurance
Registration fees do not include insurance of any kind. It is strongly recommended that at the time you register for the conference and book your travel you take out an insurance policy of your choice. The policy should include loss of fees/deposit through cancellation of your participation in the conference, or through cancellation of the conference, loss of international/domestic air fares through cancellation for any reason, loss of tour monies through cancellation for any reason including airline or related services strikes, failure to utilise tours or pre-booked arrangements due to airline delay, Force Majeure or any other reason, medical expenses (including sickness and accident cover), loss or damage to personal property, additional expenses and repatriation should travel arrangements have to be altered. The conference managers cannot take any responsibility for any participant failing to arrange their own insurance. This insurance is to be purchased in your country of origin.
Language
English is the main language spoken within the region.
Passport and Visa
For detailed information on the different types of Visas please visit The Immigration Division of Trinidad and Tobago website. It is recommended that you arrange your visa as soon as possible as it can take 6-8 weeks to be processed.
If you are from a country that is required to obtain a VISA for entry into the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, your details will be passed onto our host organisation, the Ministry of Health. They will undertake the necessary security checks with the appropriate authorities, and if approved, your details will be submitted to the immigration authorities and you will be able to obtain a Visa Waiver which can be obtained on arrival at their airport.
Taxes
There are two main taxes which are applicable in Trinidad and Tobago.
Hotel tax - This tax of 10% is standard to all hotels and guesthouses in T&T. In addition, hotels may add on their own service and utility fees or security deposits - but this depends on the provider. The best way to find out about these fees is from your hotel or guesthouse.
Value Added Tax - VAT, is a 15% tax added to goods and services. The prices displayed in stores usually include this tax, unless otherwise stated.
Time
Trinidad and Tobago is at GMT -4 hours.
For example at the time of the Conference if the time in Trinidad and Tobago is 12 noon the time will be:
| Australia (Sydney) | 0300 (+1 day) | USA (Los Angeles) | 0900 |
| Peru (Lima) | 1100 | Ecuador (Quito) | 1100 |
| USA (New York) | 1200 (noon) | Brazil (Rio de Janeiro) | 1300 |
Tipping
Tipping is left to your own discretion; however you can follow the guidelines below:
- Taxi Drivers: 10% of the fare
- Service Staff at a Restaurant: 10 to 15 % of total bill
- Spa Attendants: 10% of total bill.
Vaccinations
Visitors arriving in Trinidad and Tobago within five days of leaving an area with yellow fever must present a vaccination certificate to Immigration Officials.
