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Trinidad and Tobago

Capital:Port of Spain
Population:1.2M
Currency:Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD)
Language:English (official), Hindi, French, Spanish, Chinese
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Quick Look Factsheet

A multi-page overview of Trinidad and Tobago.

Trinidad and Tobago Factsheet

Customs and Culture

About the People

Trinidadians enjoy life even in times of hardship. Trinidadian men socialize at street corners to pass the time and watch the passing scene.

Cultural Attributes

Trinidad and Tobago is a vibrant country located in the southern Caribbean, known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse population. The unique cultural attributes of this country reflect the influence of its colonial history, as well as the blending of cultures from Africa, India, China, Europe, and other parts of the world. Here are some of the most unique cultural attributes in Trinidad and Tobago:

Carnival - One of the most famous cultural events in Trinidad and Tobago is Carnival. This festival is held annually in February or March and is a celebration of music, dance, and colorful costumes. Carnival originated as a pre-Lenten festival in Europe, but in Trinidad and Tobago, it has evolved into a unique expression of the country's culture.

Steelpan Music - The steelpan is a musical instrument that originated in Trinidad and Tobago in the early 20th century. It is made from a metal oil drum and produces a unique, percussive sound. Steelpan music is an integral part of Trinidadian culture and is often heard during Carnival and other festivals.

Limbo Dancing - Limbo is a dance that originated in Trinidad and Tobago and is characterized by its low, bending movements. The dance is often performed to the sound of steelpan music and is a popular feature of Carnival celebrations.

Divali - Divali is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in Trinidad and Tobago each year. It is a celebration of light over darkness and is marked by the lighting of diyas (oil lamps), the exchange of sweets, and the sharing of meals.

Chutney Music - Chutney music is a blend of Indian and Caribbean musical styles and is popular in Trinidad and Tobago. The music often features a mix of Hindi and English lyrics and is a favorite at weddings and other celebrations.

Cuisine - Trinidad and Tobago's cuisine is a reflection of its multicultural heritage, with influences from Africa, India, China, Europe, and the Caribbean. Some popular dishes include roti, doubles, callaloo, and pelau.

Folklore - Trinidad and Tobago is home to a rich tradition of folklore, including stories of jumbies (spirits), douens (ghostly children), and soucouyants (vampires). These stories have been passed down through generations and are an important part of the country's cultural identity.

Tobago Quays

Island of Infinite Rhythms

Greetings, Gestures & Visiting

Even though English is the official language, English is known as a Creole English and has words or phrases from African and other languages. For example, the plural form of you is allyu and the phrase ah wee means ours.

As with any culture, there are certain gestures and actions that can be considered offensive or disrespectful. Here are some offensive gestures to avoid in Trinidad and Tobago:

Pointing - Pointing at someone or something with your index finger is considered impolite in Trinidad and Tobago. If you need to indicate something, it is better to use your whole hand.

Feet - It is considered disrespectful to point the soles of your feet at someone in Trinidad and Tobago. This is because feet are seen as the lowest part of the body and therefore, pointing them at someone is seen as demeaning.

Hand gestures - While hand gestures are often used in conversation in Trinidad and Tobago, there are some that can be considered offensive. For example, the "thumbs up" gesture is considered vulgar and should be avoided.

Touching someone's head - In Trinidad and Tobago, it is considered disrespectful to touch someone's head, especially if they are older than you. This is because the head is seen as the most sacred part of the body.

Blowing your nose in public - Blowing your nose in public is considered impolite in Trinidad and Tobago. If you need to blow your nose, it is best to do so in private.

Disrespecting elders - Elders are highly respected in Trinidad and Tobago, and it is considered very offensive to disrespect them in any way.

Disrespecting religious beliefs - Trinidad and Tobago is a diverse country with many different religions represented. It is important to respect the religious beliefs of others and to avoid making derogatory comments or gestures.

One of the most interesting aspects of Trinidad and Tobago is the personal appearance of its people, which reflects the unique blend of cultural influences that have shaped the country's history.

The people of Trinidad and Tobago come from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, including African, Indian, Chinese, and European. As a result, there is a rich mix of physical features and personal styles that can be observed throughout the country.

One of the most distinctive features of Trinidadian and Tobagonian personal appearance is their love of bright colors and bold patterns. This can be seen in the clothing worn by both men and women, as well as in the hairstyles and accessories that they choose. Brightly colored fabrics, such as madras, are a common choice for traditional outfits, which often feature elaborate patterns and embroidery.

Another important aspect of personal appearance in Trinidad and Tobago is the use of natural materials. This is particularly evident in the hairstyles worn by many people, which often feature intricate braiding and weaving using natural fibers such as hemp and sisal. These styles are not only practical and easy to maintain in the tropical climate, but they also reflect a connection to the natural world that is an important part of the country's cultural heritage.

In addition to their love of bright colors and natural materials, Trinidadian and Tobagonian personal appearance is also influenced by their religious beliefs. Many people in the country are followers of the Hindu, Muslim, or Christian faiths, and this is reflected in the clothing and accessories that they wear. For example, Muslim women often wear headscarves or hijabs, while Hindu women may wear saris or other traditional garments.

Diet

Many social gatherings are complemented with meals. While it is common to eat on the run in Trinidad, cooking substantial meals at home is important, especially on weekends. A typical Sunday dinner may include callaloo, a combination of spinach and crab. Other favorites are curried crab and coocoo, a cornmeal and okra pie.

Many social gatherings are complemented with meals. While it is common to eat on the run in Trinidad, cooking substantial meals at home is important, especially on weekends. A typical Sunday dinner may include callaloo, a combination of spinach and crab. Other favorites are curried crab and coocoo, a cornmeal and okra pie.

Tobago Cays, beach

Family

Extended families are important in general. Siblings and extended family members traditionally live close to each other. Family members, maintain regular contact and get together for religious holidays and other festivals. Children are highly valued and many families exercise strict discipline.

Dating Customs

When it comes to dating and romantic relationships, Trinidad and Tobago has its own unique traditions and customs that are worth exploring. Here are some of the dating traditions in Trinidad and Tobago:

Courting - In Trinidad and Tobago, courting is still a popular way to initiate romantic relationships. Courting involves a man expressing his interest in a woman, often through a series of thoughtful gestures like sending flowers or writing love letters.

Chaperones - It is not uncommon for a couple to have a chaperone on their first few dates in Trinidad and Tobago. This tradition is rooted in the country's strong Christian values and is seen as a way to ensure that the couple's behavior is appropriate.

Public displays of affection - While public displays of affection are generally accepted in Trinidad and Tobago, they are not as common as in some other cultures. Holding hands and hugging are common, but kissing in public is less common.

Family involvement - Family plays an important role in the dating traditions of Trinidad and Tobago. It is common for a couple to involve their families early on in the relationship and to seek their approval before moving forward.

Gender roles - Traditional gender roles still play a significant role in dating and relationships in Trinidad and Tobago. Men are often expected to take the lead in courting and to be the primary breadwinners in relationships, while women are expected to be homemakers and caretakers.

Religious differences - Trinidad and Tobago is a diverse country, with many different religions represented. This can sometimes lead to challenges when it comes to dating and relationships, as couples may come from different religious backgrounds.

Recreation

Trinidadians and Tobagonians have gained a reputation for enjoying life. “Fete” is their word for party, and the people have been known to create fetes even in the midst of crises. Cricket is a popular sport as well as soccer, netball, field hockey, and volleyball. Going to the beach and horse races are favorite recreational activities in Trinidad.

Holidays

  • Independence Day

    8/31

    Independence Day

Dates of Interest

  • August 31st

    Emancipation Day - Celebrated on August 1st each year, Emancipation Day marks the abolition of slavery in Trinidad and Tobago in 1834.

How do people communicate and greet each other in Trinidad and Tobago?

English is the official language, but it is a Creole English incorporating words from African and other languages.

Good to know

  • The plural form of 'you' is 'allyu'
  • The phrase 'ah wee' means 'ours'

What are dining and food customs like in Trinidad and Tobago?

Many social gatherings include meals, and while eating on the run is common, cooking substantial home meals is important, especially on weekends.

Do

  • Expect hearty Sunday dinners
  • Try local favorites like callaloo (spinach and crab), curried crab, coocoo (cornmeal and okra pie), roti, doubles, and pelau

What etiquette should travelers follow in Trinidad and Tobago?

Respect for elders and religious beliefs is very important in this diverse society.

Do

  • Respect the religious beliefs of others
  • Show respect toward elders

Don’t

  • Don't blow your nose in public
  • Don't disrespect elders or make derogatory comments about religion

How should travelers dress in Trinidad and Tobago?

Personal style reflects a blend of cultural influences, with a love of bright colors, bold patterns, and natural materials.

Good to know

  • Brightly colored fabrics like madras are common in traditional outfits
  • Religious dress varies: Muslim women may wear headscarves or hijabs, Hindu women may wear saris

Which gestures should travelers avoid in Trinidad and Tobago?

Several common gestures are considered offensive or disrespectful.

Don’t

  • Don't point at people or things with your index finger
  • Don't point the soles of your feet at someone
  • Avoid the 'thumbs up' gesture, which is considered vulgar
  • Don't touch someone's head, especially someone older than you

Good to know

  • Use your whole hand instead of pointing

What role does family play in Trinidad and Tobago?

Extended families are important, with relatives living close and staying in regular contact.

Good to know

  • Families gather for religious holidays and festivals
  • Children are highly valued and many families exercise strict discipline
  • Family approval often matters in dating, and chaperones may accompany early dates

What do people do for fun in Trinidad and Tobago?

Trinidadians and Tobagonians are known for enjoying life and throwing 'fetes' (parties), even during hard times.

Good to know

  • Cricket, soccer, netball, field hockey, and volleyball are popular sports
  • Going to the beach and horse races are favorite activities
  • Carnival, steelpan music, limbo dancing, Divali, and chutney music are key cultural highlights

Last updated: 2026-07-12 · Sources: CountryReports

Photos of Trinidad and Tobago

Travel and Tourism

Travel Alert Status
Level 3: Reconsider Travel
Currency
Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TTD)
Time Difference
UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
Climate
Both Trinidad and Tobago lie deep in the tropics but are cooled by the marine environment and the prevailing northeast trade winds. Because of its constant exposure to trade winds, Tobago is cooler than Trinidad. Rainfall is moderate to heavy with an annual average of 82.7 inches but is subject to considerable regional and year-to-year variations. Days are warm, but evening temperatures are cooler. The seasonal variation does not exceed 5°F. The mean year-round temperature for the country at 8 a.m. is about 77°F; at 2 p.m. it is about 86°F. Humidity averages about 86% at 8 a.m. and about 65% at 2 p.m. A dry season, more clearly defined than in most West Indian islands, lasts from January through mid-May; a short interruption of the rainy season also usually occurs in September. In most of the country no month is entirely dry, but during the rainy season the monthly precipitation is three to four times greater than in the dry season. Although the country lies slightly south of the hurricane track, violent local storms sometimes occur. In 1962, Hurricane Flora devastated Tobago, and tropical storm Alma crossed Trinidad in 1974. Both events are considered highly unusual.
Airports
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Recipes

History

Historical Eras

  1. Indigenous & Spanish Era

    1498 – 1797

    Christopher Columbus arrived in Trinidad in 1498, and Spain established colonial governance over the island, though settlement remained sparse for decades. The indigenous Arawak and Carib populations were largely decimated through disease, forced labor, and violent displacement. Trinidad gradually attracted French, free Black, and other non-Spanish settlers, while Tobago changed hands repeatedly among Dutch, French, and British forces.

  2. British Colonial Period

    1797 – 1889

    A British naval expedition seized Trinidad from Spain in 1797, with formal cession confirmed under the Treaty of Amiens in 1802; France ceded Tobago to Britain in 1814. The colonial economy was built on sugar and cocoa plantations dependent on enslaved African labor until abolition in 1834, after which indentured workers were brought from India to sustain agricultural production. This wave of Indian indentureship profoundly shaped the ethnic and cultural fabric of Trinidad and Tobago.

  3. Unified Crown Colony

    1889 – 1945

    Trinidad and Tobago were administratively merged into a single British crown colony in 1889, rationalizing governance across the two islands. The early twentieth century saw the emergence of a petroleum industry that began shifting the economy away from plantation agriculture. Labor unrest and growing calls for political representation intensified during the 1930s, laying the groundwork for future nationalist movements.

  4. Road to Independence

    1945 – 1962

    Universal suffrage was instituted in 1945, dramatically expanding political participation. Eric Williams founded the People's National Movement in 1956, becoming the dominant nationalist figure, and Trinidad and Tobago briefly joined the British-sponsored West Indies Federation in 1958 before withdrawing as the federation collapsed under structural disagreements. Full independence was achieved on August 31, 1962, with Trinidad and Tobago joining the British Commonwealth.

  5. Modern Nation

    1962 – present

    As an independent nation, Trinidad and Tobago leveraged substantial petroleum and natural gas reserves to become one of the most prosperous economies in the Caribbean. Political turbulence, including a state of emergency declared in 1970 amid Black Power demonstrations, tested the young democracy, but constitutional governance endured. The country has continued to develop its energy sector while diversifying into tourism, particularly in Tobago, and maintaining a vibrant multicultural society shaped by its Creole and East Indian heritage.

Overview

Columbus landed in Trinidad in 1498, and the island was settled by the Spanish a century later The original inhabitants--Arawak and Carib Indians--were largely wiped out by the Spanish colonizers, and the survivors were gradually assimilated. Although it attracted French, free Black, and other non-Spanish settlers, Trinidad remained under Spanish rule until the British captured it in 1797. During the colonial period, Trinidad’s economy relied on large sugar and cocoa plantations. Tobago’s development was similar to other plantation islands in the Lesser Antilles and quite different from Trinidad’s. During the colonial period, French, Dutch, and British forces fought over possession of Tobago, and the island changed hands 22 times--more often than any other West Indian island. Tobago was finally ceded to Great Britain in 1814. Trinidad and Tobago were incorporated into a single colony in 1888.

In 1958, the United Kingdom tried to establish an independent Federation of the West Indies comprising most of the former British West Indies. However, disagreement over the structure of the federation and Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago’s withdrawal soon led to its collapse. Trinidad and Tobago achieved full independence in 1962 and joined the British Commonwealth.

Trinidad and Tobago’s people are mainly of African or East Indian descent. Virtually all speak English. Small percentages also speak Hindi, French patois, and several other dialects. Trinidad has two major folk traditions: Creole and East Indian. Creole is a mixture of African elements with Spanish, French, and English colonial culture. Trinidad’s East Indian culture came to the island with indentured servants brought to fill a labor shortage created by the emancipation of the African slaves in 1833. Most remained on the land, and they still dominate the agricultural sector, but many have become prominent in business and the professions. East Indians have retained much of their own way of life, including Hindu and Muslim religious festivals and practices.

Timeline of Key Events

  1. 1498

    Christopher Columbus visits the islands.

    Christopher Columbus visits the islands, naming Trinidad after the three peaks at its south-east corner and Tobago after a local type of tobacco pipe.

  2. 1498

    Spain colonizes Trinidad, appointing a governor to rule it.

    Spain colonizes Trinidad, appointing a governor to rule it.

  3. 1630

    The Dutch settle on Tobago and plant sugar-cane.

    The Dutch settle on Tobago and plant sugar-cane.

  4. 1781

    The French capture Tobago from the Spanish, transforming it into a sugar-producing colony.

    The French capture Tobago from the Spanish, transforming it into a sugar-producing colony.

  5. 1797

    A British naval expedition captures Trinidad from Spain.

    A British naval expedition captures Trinidad from Spain.

  6. 1802

    Spain cedes Trinidad to Britain under the Treaty of Amiens.

    Spain cedes Trinidad to Britain under the Treaty of Amiens.

  7. 1814

    France cedes Tobago to Britain.

    France cedes Tobago to Britain.

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Interesting Facts

  • Most Tobagonians are of African descent, while Trinidad is the most cosmopolitan society in the Caribbean. People of Asian, African and European descent, and a mixture of these, live together on this island.

  • T & T has what could be called the eighth wonder of the world, Pitch Lake near the town of La Brea. It has crude oil in it which reaches the earth's surface by seeping through a fault line in the sandstone 76 metres below ground. The pitch swirls slowly, swallowing objects and releasing them years later.

  • T & T achieved independence from Britain in 1962 and became a Republic in 1976.

  • Trinidad has one of the world's most multi-ethnic populations. Offspring of African and European parents are seen culturally as Black Trinidadians. Some mixed race people are called French Creoles although many families bear Spanish, Portuguese, Scottish and English names.

  • When the British explorer Sir Walter Raleigh was anchored in Trinidad in 1595, he used the asphalt from Pitch Lake to caulk his leaking ships.

  • Liming is part of Trinidad's recreational life. It means passing the time, not doing anything too purposeful, being with friends for the sake of relaxing. It takes place at the beach, on street corners, in bars and outside shops.

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Geography and Environment

Trinidad and Tobago are the southernmost islands of the West Indian Island chain separating the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean. Trinidad has an area of 5,128 square kilometers (1,980 square miles). It lies northeast of Venezuela between 10° and 11° north of the Equator and is separated from Venezuela by the 7- to 20-mile-wide Gulf of Praia. Geographically it is an extension of the South American Continent. The larger island, Trinidad, measures 50 miles long and from 35 to 45 miles wide. Three relatively low mountain ranges cross Trinidad from east to west; their highest elevation reaches 3,085 feet in the heavily forested Northern Range. A lower range extends laterally across the center of the island, and a third range extends along the southern coast. Trinidad has a wide assortment of tropical vegetation and wildlife. Tobago, 21 miles northeast of Trinidad, has an area of 116 square miles. It has generally rugged terrain with elevations up to 1,800 feet; the only extensive lowland is a coral platform at the southwest end.
Terrain
mostly plains with some hills and low mountains
Climate
Both Trinidad and Tobago lie deep in the tropics but are cooled by the marine environment and the prevailing northeast trade winds. Because of its constant exposure to trade winds, Tobago is cooler than Trinidad. Rainfall is moderate to heavy with an annual average of 82.7 inches but is subject to considerable regional and year-to-year variations. Days are warm, but evening temperatures are cooler. The seasonal variation does not exceed 5°F. The mean year-round temperature for the country at 8 a.m. is about 77°F; at 2 p.m. it is about 86°F. Humidity averages about 86% at 8 a.m. and about 65% at 2 p.m. A dry season, more clearly defined than in most West Indian islands, lasts from January through mid-May; a short interruption of the rainy season also usually occurs in September. In most of the country no month is entirely dry, but during the rainy season the monthly precipitation is three to four times greater than in the dry season. Although the country lies slightly south of the hurricane track, violent local storms sometimes occur. In 1962, Hurricane Flora devastated Tobago, and tropical storm Alma crossed Trinidad in 1974. Both events are considered highly unusual.
Natural Hazards
outside usual path of hurricanes and other tropical storms
Current Environmental Issues
water pollution from agricultural chemicals, industrial wastes, and raw sewage; oil pollution of beaches; deforestation; soil erosion
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People & Demographics

Religion

Languages Spoken

English (official), Hindi, French, Spanish, Chinese

  • Chinese
  • English
  • French
  • Hindi
  • Spanish

Population

Population
1,228,691
Population in Major Urban Areas
PORT-OF-SPAIN (capital) 66,000
Nationality Noun
Trinidadian(s), Tobagonian(s)
Ethnic Groups
East Indian (a local term - primarily immigrants from northern India) 40.3%, black 39.5%, mixed 18.4%, white 0.6%, Chinese and other 1.2%

Education

Literacy Definition
age 15 and over can read and write
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Government & Politics

Country Identity

Country Name
TrinidadandTobago
Full Country Name
Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

Government Structure

Government Type
parliamentary democracy
Legal System
based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive Branch
chief of state: President Christine KANGALOO (since 20 March 2023) head of government: Prime Minister Keith ROWLEY (since 9 September 2015) cabinet: Cabinet appointed from among the members of Parliament elections: president elected by an electoral college, which consists of the members of the Senate and House of Representatives, for a five-year term; election last held 20 January 2023 (next to be held in 2028); the president usually appoints as prime minister the leader of the majority party in the House of Representatives election results: Christine KANGALOO elected president; she was the sole candidate nominated by the ruling People's National Movement and was elected unopposed by the electoral college
Legislative Branch
bicameral Parliament consists of the Senate (31 seats; 16 members appointed by the ruling party, 9 by the President, 6 by the opposition party for a maximum term of five years) and the House of Representatives (36 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms) elections: House of Representatives - last held 7 October 2002 (next to be held by October 2007) election results: House of Representatives - percent of vote - PNM 55.5%, UNC 44.5%; seats by party - PNM 20, UNC 16 note: Tobago has a unicameral House of Assembly with 12 members serving four-year terms; last election held January 2005; seats by party - PNM 11, DAC 1
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court of Judicature (comprised of the High Court of Justice and the Court of Appeals; the chief justice is appointed by the president after consultation with the prime minister and the leader of the opposition; other justices are appointed by the president on the advice of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission); High Court of Justice; Caribbean Court of Appeals member; Court of Appeals; the highest court of appeal is the Privy Council in London
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Constitution
1-Aug-76
Independence
31 August 1962 (from UK)
National Holiday
Independence Day, 31 August (1962)

Capital City

Capital Name
Port of Spain
Capital - geographic coordinate
10 39 N, 61 31 W
Capital Time Difference
UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

the name dates to the period of Spanish colonial rule (16th to late 18th centuries) when the city was referred to as "Puerto de Espana"; the name was anglicized following the British capture of Trinidad in 1797

Military

Branches: Trinidad and Tobago Defense Force (TTDF): Trinidad and Tobago Army, Coast Guard, Air Guard, Defense Force Reserves

Embassy / Diplomatic Mission

U.S. Embassy - Trinidad and Tobago

15 Queen’s Park West

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

Telephone: (868) 622-6371

Fax: (868) 822-5555

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Economy

Trinidad and Tobago is the Caribbean's leading producer of oil and natural gas, and the energy sector remains the cornerstone of its economy, accounting for the bulk of export earnings and government revenue. The country is a major global exporter of liquefied natural gas, ammonia, and methanol, and has cultivated a reputation as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment in energy and petrochemicals. Tourism plays a smaller role than in most other Caribbean nations, though Tobago in particular continues to develop its visitor economy.

After years of sluggish performance tied to declining natural gas production, the economy has shown signs of recovery, supported by firmer global energy prices, renewed upstream investment, and cross-border gas projects with Venezuela aimed at boosting feedstock supply. Inflation has eased from recent peaks, and the country maintains substantial foreign reserves and a sovereign wealth fund (the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund) that provide a buffer against commodity price volatility.

Key challenges include diversifying away from hydrocarbons, addressing foreign exchange shortages, modernizing the public sector, and curbing persistently high rates of violent crime, which the government has identified as a national security priority. Efforts to expand non-energy sectors such as manufacturing, financial services, and digital industries are ongoing but progress has been gradual.

Snapshot

Currency Name and Code
Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD)
GDP — official exchange rate
$13,020,000,000 (USD)
GDP Real Growth Rate
7%

Banknotes

Trinidad and Tobago Money - Front
Trinidad and Tobago Money - Front
Trinidad and Tobago Money - Back
Trinidad and Tobago Money - Back

Budget & Public Finance

Fiscal Year
1 October - 30 September
Annual Budget
$4,060,000,000 (USD)
Public Debt (% of GDP)
41.1%
External Debt
$2,986,000,000 (USD)
Investment (% of GDP)
19%
Economic Aid
$24,000,000 (USD)
Current Account Balance
$3,270,000,000 (USD)
Reserves of Foreign Exchange
$2,147,483,647 (USD)

Labor, Industry & Trade

Labor Force by Occupation
construction and utilities 12.4%; manufacturing; mining; and quarrying 14%; agriculture 9.5%; services 64.1%
Industries
petroleum, chemicals, tourism, food processing, cement, beverage, cotton textiles
Agriculture Products
cocoa, sugarcane, rice, citrus, coffee, vegetables; poultry
Export Commodities
petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, steel products, fertilizer, sugar, cocoa, coffee, citrus, flowers
Export Partners
US 54.4%, Jamaica 6.7%, France 4.2%
Import Commodities
machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods, food, live animals
Import Partners
US 35.8%, Venezuela 12.7%, Brazil 5.1%, Cote d'Ivoire 4.7%, UK 4.3%

Energy

Oil Production
150,000 bbl/day
Oil Consumption
29,000 bbl/day
Oil Reserves
990,000,000 bbl/day
Natural Gas Production
24,700,000,000 cu m
Natural Gas Consumption
12,790,000,000 cu m
Natural Gas Imports
0 cu m
Natural Gas Exports
11,790,000,000 cu m
Natural Gas Reserves
733,000,000,000 cu m

Communications

Telephone System
general assessment: excellent international service; good local service domestic: combined fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity roughly 170 telephones per 100 persons international: country code - 1-868; submarine cable systems provide connectivity to US and parts of the Caribbean and South America; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); tropospheric scatter to Barbados and Guyana
Internet Country Code
.tt

News & Weather

Current Weather

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Climate Overview

Both Trinidad and Tobago lie deep in the tropics but are cooled by the marine environment and the prevailing northeast trade winds. Because of its constant exposure to trade winds, Tobago is cooler than Trinidad. Rainfall is moderate to heavy with an annual average of 82.7 inches but is subject to considerable regional and year-to-year variations. Days are warm, but evening temperatures are cooler. The seasonal variation does not exceed 5°F. The mean year-round temperature for the country at 8 a.m. is about 77°F; at 2 p.m. it is about 86°F. Humidity averages about 86% at 8 a.m. and about 65% at 2 p.m.

A dry season, more clearly defined than in most West Indian islands, lasts from January through mid-May; a short interruption of the rainy season also usually occurs in September. In most of the country no month is entirely dry, but during the rainy season the monthly precipitation is three to four times greater than in the dry season.

Although the country lies slightly south of the hurricane track, violent local storms sometimes occur. In 1962, Hurricane Flora devastated Tobago, and tropical storm Alma crossed Trinidad in 1974. Both events are considered highly unusual.

Videos

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Trinidad and Tobago?
The population of Trinidad and Tobago is approximately 1.2M.
How do people communicate and greet each other in Trinidad and Tobago?
English is the official language, but it is a Creole English incorporating words from African and other languages. The plural form of 'you' is 'allyu' The phrase 'ah wee' means 'ours'
What are dining and food customs like in Trinidad and Tobago?
Many social gatherings include meals, and while eating on the run is common, cooking substantial home meals is important, especially on weekends. Do: Expect hearty Sunday dinners Try local favorites like callaloo (spinach and crab), curried crab, coocoo (cornmeal and okra pie), roti, doubles, and pelau
What etiquette should travelers follow in Trinidad and Tobago?
Respect for elders and religious beliefs is very important in this diverse society. Do: Respect the religious beliefs of others Show respect toward elders Don't: Don't blow your nose in public Don't disrespect elders or make derogatory comments about religion
How should travelers dress in Trinidad and Tobago?
Personal style reflects a blend of cultural influences, with a love of bright colors, bold patterns, and natural materials. Brightly colored fabrics like madras are common in traditional outfits Religious dress varies: Muslim women may wear headscarves or hijabs, Hindu women may wear saris
Which gestures should travelers avoid in Trinidad and Tobago?
Several common gestures are considered offensive or disrespectful. Don't: Don't point at people or things with your index finger Don't point the soles of your feet at someone Avoid the 'thumbs up' gesture, which is considered vulgar Don't touch someone's head, especially someone older than you Use your whole hand instead of pointing
What role does family play in Trinidad and Tobago?
Extended families are important, with relatives living close and staying in regular contact. Families gather for religious holidays and festivals Children are highly valued and many families exercise strict discipline Family approval often matters in dating, and chaperones may accompany early dates
What do people do for fun in Trinidad and Tobago?
Trinidadians and Tobagonians are known for enjoying life and throwing 'fetes' (parties), even during hard times. Cricket, soccer, netball, field hockey, and volleyball are popular sports Going to the beach and horse races are favorite activities Carnival, steelpan music, limbo dancing, Divali, and chutney music are key cultural highlights
What is the capital of Trinidad and Tobago?
Port of Spain is the capital of Trinidad and Tobago, situated on the northwestern coast of Trinidad. It serves as the country's political, commercial, and cultural hub, housing the national parliament and major financial institutions. The city is also the focal point of the country's celebrated Carnival season, drawing visitors from across the Caribbean and beyond.
Where is Trinidad and Tobago located?
Trinidad and Tobago is a twin-island republic situated in the southern Caribbean, just off the northeastern coast of Venezuela. It is the southernmost nation in the Caribbean chain, lying close to the South American mainland. This proximity has historically made it a crossroads of trade, migration, and cultural exchange, contributing to one of the most cosmopolitan societies in the region.
What are the ocean borders of Trinidad and Tobago?
As an island nation, Trinidad and Tobago is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north and west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The Gulf of Paria separates Trinidad from Venezuela to the west, while the Bocas del Dragón and Serpent's Mouth straits mark the northern and southern sea passages respectively. Tobago lies approximately 30 kilometres northeast of Trinidad.
What religion is practiced in Trinidad and Tobago?
Roman Catholicism is the largest single religion in Trinidad and Tobago, practised by approximately 29 percent of the population. Hinduism accounts for roughly 24 percent, reflecting the significant Indo-Trinidadian community descended from South Asian indentured laborers brought during British colonial rule. A range of other Christian denominations, Islam, and traditional African-derived spiritual practices make up much of the remainder, underscoring the nation's exceptional religious diversity.
What is the currency of Trinidad and Tobago?
The official currency is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar, with the ISO code TTD. It is issued and regulated by the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago. The country's relative economic prosperity, driven primarily by petroleum and natural gas revenues, has historically supported a stable currency compared to many other Caribbean nations.
What language is spoken in Trinidad and Tobago?
English is the official language of Trinidad and Tobago and is used in government, education, and media. However, the population's diverse ethnic heritage means that Hindi, French, Spanish, and Chinese are also spoken in various communities. A locally developed English-based creole, often called Trinidadian Creole, is widely used in everyday conversation and is an important marker of national cultural identity.
What is Trinidad and Tobago known for?
Trinidad and Tobago is known for its Carnival, widely regarded as one of the world's greatest street festivals, as well as for being the birthplace of calypso and steelpan music. The country is also a major exporter of petroleum and natural gas, making it one of the most prosperous economies in the Caribbean. Pitch Lake near La Brea in Trinidad — a vast natural deposit of asphalt fed by crude oil seeping through a deep geological fault — is considered one of the world's great natural curiosities. Tourism, centered largely on Tobago's beaches and coral reefs, rounds out the national profile.
What is the geography of Trinidad and Tobago like?
Trinidad and Tobago consists of two main islands with contrasting landscapes. Trinidad, the larger island, features a northern mountain range, fertile plains, and extensive wetlands including the Caroni Swamp, a sanctuary for the scarlet ibis, the national bird. Tobago is smaller and more rugged, with a forested interior ridge and fringing coral reefs that support significant marine biodiversity. Together the islands sit on the continental shelf of South America rather than on the volcanic arc typical of most Caribbean islands.

Last reviewed 2026