The main reasons for Trinidad and Tobago's risk rating of 6 are a steady increase in violent crime that sometimes has targeted foreign visitors, as well as the proximity of the islands to South American suppliers of the North American drug market.

Some relatively small extremist Muslim organizations--Jamaat al-Muslimeen and Islamic Front--are present, but their activities are not likely to affect travelers.

The islands are outside the usual track for Atlantic hurricanes, but they are subject to some seismic activity.

High-risk Areas

In Trinidad the metropolitan areas of Port of Spain and San Fernando have the highest incidences of crime. Gang violence in Port of Spain has increased the dangers in the Laventille, Morvant and Barataria areas.

On Tobago, Pigeon Point Road should be regarded as hazardous. Be aware of the presence of crack houses in some areas of Scarborough. Attacks, some involving the use of firearms, have been reported at tourist sites, including Fort George, at the car parks of supermarkets and shopping malls around Port of Spain, and at business premises.

Race dominates politics in Trinidad and Tobago. The People's National Movement is supported mainly by Afro-Trinidadians, and the United National Congress draws most of its support from people of Indian descent.

Patrick Manning was appointed prime minister following inconclusive elections in December 2001. His People's National Movement party won re-election in November 2007, when it picked up 26 seats in a newly-expanded 41-seat parliament. While the majority is insufficient for Manning to push through his proposed constitutional changes--branded by critics as a dictatorial power grab--he said it was "a comfortable majority with which to rule." He is reportedly keen to replace the current parliamentary system with a presidential one. The next elections are due in 2012.

Trinidad and Tobago, the most industrialized country in the Caribbean, is economically different from neighboring nations; oil and natural-gas production, rather than tourism and agriculture, are at the core of the market-based economy. It is currently the fifth-largest exporter of liquid natural gas in the world and the largest exporter of methanol.

The country continues to experience growth in real gross domestic product as a result of economic reforms, tight monetary policy, fiscal responsibility and high oil prices. In 2007, the country experienced a growth rate of 8%--the economy is predicted to grow at 6% in 2008, and inflation is forecast to be around 10% by the end of the year. The PNM-led government continues its sound macroeconomic policies. Long-term growth looks promising, as the country continues to develop its oil and gas resources and the industries dependent on natural gas, including petrochemicals, fertilizers, iron/steel and aluminum.

Although Trinidad and Tobago has a relatively high annual per-capita gross domestic product, unemployment contributes to a skewed income distribution--that situation has not improved much. Government efforts to address this problem by further diversification into manufacturing and tourism have so far been only partially successful.

Domestic terrorism

Locally based Jamaat al-Muslimeen was responsible for a violent, unsuccessful coup attempt in 1990. In the years since then, some of its members have been arrested for organized-crime activities, including weapons smuggling.

At present, neither Jamaat nor the Islamic Front appears to pose a serious threat. However, international intelligence operatives are believed to be watching them for signs that they might be linked to global terrorist networks such as al-Qaida.

Civil unrest

Although civil disorder is not a major hazard, there have been nonviolent demonstrations and threats to disrupt utility services. Use commonsense precautions if you come upon a demonstration or protest.

Human-rights abuses

In its May 2008 report Amnesty International said that several people had been killed by police in what the authorities described as shootouts. These claims were disputed by witnesses.

Torture and mistreatment of detainees by police continue to be reported. Prison conditions are harsh, and sentences such as corporal punishment and the death penalty are meted out--however, no executions have been carried out since 1999.

The country is reported to suffer from a high level of violence against women. Murder, rape and other crimes against women are reported frequently.

The rate of crime is high in Trinidad and Tobago and is a source of growing concern for local security services and the general population. There were a record 388 murders in 2007 out of a population of 1.4 million people. Through mid-July 2008 more than 290 homicides had been reported.

There has been a significant increase in violent crime, muggings, robberies and kidnapping for ransom in 2008. Travelers have reported being victims of pickpocketing, assault, drugging, burglary, robbery, fraud and rape. The crime rate tends to increase during the Christmas and Carnival holiday periods.

Avoid displays of wealth and carry only the cash or credit cards you need for the day. Safeguard valuables such as passports, cell phones, laptops and cameras.

Petty crime

Most criminal activities involve crimes of opportunity, primarily in the metropolitan areas of Port of Spain and San Fernando. There have been reports of criminals targeting the small buses and vans known as maxi-taxis.

On Tobago, petty theft and hustling continue to plague tourists. Theft of high-value items from hotel rooms is a particular problem.

On both islands, rental vehicles with soft tops are magnets for thieves. If you rent one, avoid leaving any personal belongings visible inside the vehicle. When driving, keep the vehicle's doors locked and windows rolled up. Valuables left in unattended vehicles may be stolen.

Hold bags and purses securely or carry them in an inside pocket, making sure the openings are fastened; keep the openings turned toward you and away from any passers-by. Don't carry a bag with a long strap, as such straps are easier for a thief to grab. Don't wear expensive watches or jewelry, and don't display large amounts of cash; take care with electronic equipment. If you're carrying a cell phone, take care to safeguard it, as mobile phones are highly coveted by thieves in many places. Keep car doors and windows closed and locked.

Violent crime

Police have reported significant increases in violent crimes, including homicides and sexual assaults. Some have involved visitors. Try to find accommodations that provide 24-hour security. Female tourists should not go to isolated tourist destinations without a guide or as part of a group.

A significant and growing portion of violence in Trinidad and Tobago is attributed to the influence of illegal narcotics and the ability to purchase and rent firearms illegally. Many homicides have been linked to gang violence, which has increased markedly in the inner city neighborhoods east of Port of Spain's city center--particularly Laventille, Morvant and Barataria--but can occur in other areas.

Take care when traveling from Piarco Airport, as there have been violent robberies involving gang members who follow cars and attack when their victims reach their destinations.

During Carnival (celebrated over four days before Easter Sunday each year), violent crime can be a problem. In February 2007, at least 20 people, including four foreign nationals, were robbed or stabbed during Carnival celebrations.

In cities where armed robbery is a problem, keep valuables in hotel safes when available. Avoid displays of affluence, such as wearing obviously expensive jewelry or designer clothing. Keep cell phones and other electronic devices hidden from view. Carry only the cash or credit cards that will be needed on each outing. Avoid deserted, remote or poorly lit areas. If the worst happens and you are accosted, most authorities advise cooperating with the robbers--resisting can provoke a violent response.

Kidnapping

Thanks to improvements in police training, kidnappings for ransom, while still very high, reportedly have declined. Although police say most kidnappings are instances of gangland score-settling or drug deals gone wrong, Jamaat al-Muslimeen also is widely believed to be involved. Despite the drop in kidnappings, you should exercise caution, as at least one foreign national has fallen victim to kidnappers.

In areas where kidnapping is a threat, it's important to maintain a low profile and don't let your actions or movements become predictable. Don't do, say or wear anything that draws attention to yourself or your nationality. Don't discuss travel plans or financial matters in public. Try to vary your route for any routine travel, and don't depart for or return from work or appointments at the same time every day. If you think you're being followed or surveilled, go to a police station, your embassy or another public place, such as a hotel or museum, and seek assistance.

Drug-related crime

Possession or use of illegal drugs carries severe penalties.

Police effectiveness

Police are responsive and cooperative but may be hampered by limited resources.

Additional information

A common tactic of criminals is to disguise themselves as police officers. Trinidad and Tobago's tactical units are getting new uniforms in an effort to curb this impersonation.

Trinidad and Tobago lies just south of the hurricane belt, and Tobago has been hit by major hurricanes only twice since 1963.

Earthquakes

In June 2006, a 4.2-magnitude earthquake was felt in Cocorite, Diego Martin, Port of Spain, Maraval and St. Joseph. An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.0 in September 2006 was followed by an aftershock the same day that left one man dead.

Earthquakes usually occur with little or no warning and often are followed by aftershocks of varying intensities. If you are in a place where you can do so, turn off power, gas and water when an earthquake occurs. Contrary to popular wisdom, doorways offer little protection--in fact, you could be injured if the door slams into you. Instead, move away from windows, glass doors and unsecured heavy objects that could tip over. Seek cover under a sturdy piece of furniture and/or hold on to furniture for balance. If in bed when the temblor occurs, stay there and cover yourself with bedding. Don't run outside if you are inside--the danger of falling debris is greater outside a building. Following the earthquake, wear protective shoes, check for damage to services and be prepared for aftershocks. In areas prone to earthquakes, keep a battery-operated radio and one or more flashlights, along with extra batteries, handy.

Flooding

Flooding can occur during the rainy season, June-December.

Provision for health care is often limited.

Medical facilities

Treatment at public health facilities is significantly below North American or European standards for treatment of serious injuries and illnesses; there is limited access to supplies and medications. Care at some private facilities is better than at most public health facilities. Patients who require blood transfusions are expected to arrange for a donation of the same amount.

Strikes affecting health-care facilities sometimes place serious strain on medical resources.

Emergency care

Ambulance service is extremely limited both in the quality of emergency care and in the availability of vehicles in many parts of the country.

Diseases

There is a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Trinidad and Tobago, so safe-sex practices are essential. Dengue fever has become a problem in recent years, particularly during the wet season--hemorrhagic dengue fever is also increasing. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue so routine precautions against the disease are particularly important.

Drinking water should be boiled or filtered.

Mosquitoes carry many serious illnesses, including dengue fever, malaria and West Nile virus. To prevent bites and avoid infection, reduce the amount of exposed skin by wearing long sleeves, long pants, socks and shoes when you're outdoors. Use insect repellent containing deet on exposed skin. Avoid outdoor activities from dusk to dawn, the time when mosquitoes are most active.

According to police reports, on average, four motorists are involved in a traffic accident every hour. The government has attributed a rising death toll on the islands' highways to drinking and drug use. You are strongly encouraged to drive defensively.

Road conditions

Trinidad has several good four-lane highways and one controlled-access highway; however, road quality decreases quickly off the main roads. Rural roads are generally narrow; many are in poor repair, and they're often congested.

Night travel in the cities of Port of Spain and San Fernando is generally safe but should be avoided in other areas, except on major highways. Roadside assistance is likely to be sporadic and is subject to lengthy delays. A recently established highway patrol unit may improve this situation on major roads. Speeding is common on the highways.

Public transportation

The country has an extensive system of vans and some larger buses. Intercity buses are generally safe, but the maxi-taxi vans have been involved in many road accidents and reportedly have been targeted by criminals.

Taxis obtained through hotels or prearranged pickups are generally safe (look for the letter H at the beginning of their license plates), but some may not have seatbelts in the back for passengers. Fares should be agreed upon in advance. Taxis frequently stop at any point along the road to pick up or discharge passengers, often with little or no warning.

The islands of Trinidad and Tobago have adequate facilities for travelers. On Tobago, ATMs are only available in Scarborough. Check ATMs to be sure they accept cards issued overseas, as it may be difficult to get machines that don't accept such cards to return them.

No matter how safe you perceive a destination to be, it's important to use good judgment.

• Pay attention to local media.
• Avoid open displays of wealth, jewelry or other valuables. Safeguard travel documents such as passports and airline tickets.
• Avoid confrontations with locals.
• Avoid demonstrations and protests, especially if they appear political in nature.
• Don't permit people you don't know to enter your accommodations. Keep your door locked. Don't leave valuables in your room unless they can be locked in a safe.
• Avoid illegal drugs, and don't drink alcohol if its use is prohibited. Even if drinking is legal, don't overindulge.
• Be cautious of unsolicited offers of assistance from strangers.

In recent years, political terrorism has become a global phenomenon - an attack could occur with little warning anywhere in the world, even in destinations long regarded as safe. Travelers should keep themselves informed of developments that could affect their safety, no matter what their destination.