Crime is a fact of life in Port of Spain, and you should exercise the same street smarts there that you would in any large city. Robberies are common, even in rural areas of the island. Seek safety in numbers and don't wander around after dark. Kidnappings are a problem in Trinidad, especially since the summer of 2002. These do not appear to be targeted at nonresidents, but you should be aware of the problem and take sensible precautions. Generally it is a good idea not to wear flashy jewelry or carry large sums of money. Also, don't travel in vehicles not marked as taxis.
Trinidad's tap water is safe, but food from street vendors and hole-in-the-wall snack joints should be considered only if the merchants have a government-issued food-handler's permit. Snake bites are a rarity, but be aware that there are poisonous snakes—fer-de-lance, coral and bushmaster—in the countryside. Beware of the apple from the machineel tree and its sap—both are extremely poisonous. Portuguese man-of-wars, those translucent blobs with a slightly blue tint that can be seen on beaches or floating in the water, can produce a very bad sting. Seek medical assistance if you are stung by one. Sea-urchin spines are another regular problem beachside; if you find the spines protruding from your body, you can try to remove them. However, if they are below the skin, do not try to dig them out, because this can lead to nasty infections. Just let them be—they will eventually dissolve (soak them with vinegar or some form of antiseptic). Port of Spain's General Hospital is at 160 Charlotte St. Phone 868-623-2951. The Mount Hope Maternity Hospital is located on Eastern Main Road, part of the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, just east of the capital (phone 868-662-7153). The emergency number for fire, ambulance and police is 999.
Don't forget to take sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent and a hat. Hepatitis vaccinations are also recommended. If you are traveling by ferry to and from Venezuela, you will need a yellow fever vaccination certificate. A shot against typhoid isn't a bad idea for anyone spending a lot of time in rural areas.
For the latest information, contact your country's health-advisory agency.
Do expect a lot of attention if you're white or a single woman, especially on the beach. The island has a macho culture, and local men love to show their appreciation for the opposite sex. If this kind of cultural interchange is not welcome, a firm "no" will do the trick.
Don't be surprised to hear men making a sucking sound to catch a woman's attention. It's known as being sooted.
Don't expect anything to run on time—Trinis are too laid-back to be hampered by the restrictions of a clock.
Do get familiar with the term "lime," which means to hang out.
Don't leave valuables visible on seats in rental cars—this is an invitation for theft.
Do say "good morning" or "good afternoon" before starting a conversation with someone on the street or in a shop.
Don't wear beach attire away from the shore or pool—it is not appreciated on the streets.
Don't remove coral—doing so is illegal.
Don't go around the Chase Village strip clubs south of Chaguanas—they are raided frequently and attract a rough crowd.
Don't expect good restaurant service or any hotel-room service during Carnival (your waiters will be out partying in the streets).
Do expect hotel prices to shoot up during Carnival.
