Destination Trinidad is pleased to be present at this year’s World Travel Market. Our organizations are dedicated to marketing, promoting, and enhancing the allure of Trinidad as a premier tourist destination. We also maintain a close partnership with the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited in jointly promoting Trinidad and Tobago as the perfect vacation spot. We are actively working to enrich our offerings and provide visitors with an exceptional experience.
ABOUT DESTINATION TRINIDAD
In 2023, Trinidad remains a vibrant island, rich in multicultural heritage and teeming with biodiversity.
The island’s colourful history continues to be celebrated through a multitude of festivals and events that honour its diverse heritage, including African, East Indian, Spanish, French, Chinese, and Syrian influences, among others.
Trinidad also maintains its reputation as a premier destination for birdwatching and ecotourism. The Caroni Bird Sanctuary, a sprawling mangrove wetland spanning approximately twenty square miles, is a must-visit. Each evening, the sanctuary becomes a spectacle as the stunning Scarlet Ibis, our national bird, returns to roost.
This globally significant protected wetland is home to three varieties of mangrove – red, black, and white. Visitors can spot Fiddler crabs on the mudflats, occasional Caimans on the embankments, the silky Anteater, and over 190 species of birds that inhabit the swamp.
The most breathtaking sight is the evening return of hundreds of Scarlet Ibis. The contrast of their flaming red plumage against the evening blue sky is a sight to behold and a highlight not to be missed.
Scarlet ibis / Photo Credit: Stephen Broadbridge
Drummers of Wasafoli Performing Company performing at the production 'Suumba'
Caroni swamp
BRAND ‘visitTrinidad’ – ALWAYS IN SEASON
This year, we are delighted to invite everyone to explore Trinidad!
Trinidad offers a multitude of captivating sights, attractions, and year-round events. Our upcoming events calendar will feature a diverse array of festivals and celebrations happening throughout the year.
That’s why we proudly declare, “Visit Trinidad… because we’re always in season!”
NEW DEVELOPMENTS
The United Nations General Assembly has officially declared August 11th as “World Steelpan Day”. This significant development was announced in 2023.
The steelpan, which originated in Trinidad and Tobago in the early 1930s, is the only new instrument invented in the 20th century. The declaration of World Steelpan Day by the UN is a recognition of the instrument’s unique contribution to the world’s musical landscape.
World Steelpan Day is important to the global community for several reasons. It promotes inclusive societies, sustainable communities, a creative economy and gender equality and youth empowerment.
The declaration of World Steelpan Day is a testament to the global recognition of the steelpan’s cultural significance and its power to unite people through music. It’s a day for the world to celebrate the steelpan, its history, and its contributions to global culture.
AIRLIFT AND ROUTE DEVELOPMENT
In 2023, Trinidad has made significant strides in airlift and route development, which are crucial for boosting tourism and the economy.
Airlift Developments:
- Caribbean Airlines has added a new routes to its regional airlift roster. This development amplifies the accessibility of these islands for travellers within the region.
- KLM has extended its service out of Amsterdam’s Schipol Airport hub.
- British Airways has announced a direct service three times per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
These developments in airlift and route strategy are bearing fruit, with a steady increase in visitor arrivals. The strategic business alliances with airlines like KLM, British Airways, COPA and Caribbean Airlines reinforce Trinidad’s commitment to cultivating a thriving tourism industry that caters to the evolving needs of travellers. These initiatives greatly improve the attractiveness of Trinidad as a tourist destination, making the beautiful island ‘Always in Season’.
KLM’s inaugural flight to Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
ECOTOURISM
National Geographic has recently recognized Trinidad and Tobago as one of the top 35 ‘Best of the World’ destinations for 2023. A highlight of this recognition is the Grande Riviere beach on Trinidad’s north coast, which is known as the world’s densest nesting ground for leatherback turtles. During the nesting season from March to August, an astounding 6,000 to 10,000 turtles are estimated to come ashore.
Moreover, Trinidad’s unique biodiversity is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts. The island is home to 433 species of birds, over 600 species of butterflies, and 2300 types of beautiful flowering shrubs and plants. Another remarkable feature is the Tamana Bat Caves in Trinidad’s Central Mountain Range, which houses an impressive population of 3 million bats.
These natural wonders make Trinidad an exceptional destination for eco-tourism, offering visitors an immersive experience in one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems.
Leatherback turtle / Photo Credit: Adrian Bernard
White Necked Jacobin Hummingbird / Photo Credit: Nadia Sanowar
Gasparee Caves / Photo Credit: Tevin Mills
SPORT TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
In 2023, Trinidad and Tobago have made significant strides in the development of sports tourism. The aim is to drive growth the sector and foster community and entrepreneurial development.
One of the key developments in sports tourism is the use of the national stadium, the Hasely Crawford Stadium for both sports activities and cultural events. The country also hosted the Commonwealth Youth Games 2023. The games featured athletics, swimming, and cycling events in Trinidad, while rugby, netball, beach volleyball, and the triathlon event will took place in Tobago. These developments underscore the commitment of Trinidad and Tobago to position itself as a premier destination for sports tourism.
In addition to hosting international events, Trinidad and Tobago have also invested in the development of world-class sports facilities. The National Cycling Centre, the National Aquatic Centre, and the National Racquet Centre are among the state-of-the-art facilities that have been built. These facilities not only provide excellent training grounds for local athletes but also attract international teams and events, further boosting sports tourism.
Moreover, the government has also implemented initiatives to develop sports at the grassroots level. By investing in the development of local talent, Trinidad and Tobago are ensuring a sustainable future for sports in the country and enhancing its appeal as a sports tourism destination.
Brian Lara Cricket Academy
National Aquatic Centre
Ato Boldon Stadium
CARNIVAL AND ITS BEGINNINGS – OUR STORY
Many are unaware that Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival has inspired numerous Carnivals worldwide, including the renowned Notting Hill Carnival.
Our Carnival, however, is more than just a celebration; it’s a narrative deeply rooted in our ancestral heritage. This rich history has given birth to unique art forms such as calypso, soca music, and steelpan music. While Carnival symbolizes our past struggles and our creativity, it’s this creative expression that has sparked Carnivals globally, including those in the Caribbean, Caribana in Toronto, Labour Day in New York, and of course, the Notting Hill Carnival.
The influence of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival on global celebrations is a testament to the power of cultural exchange. As our unique art forms spread across the world, they carry with them a piece of our history and identity, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our culture.
Moreover, these global Carnivals also serve as platforms for cultural dialogue and unity. They bring together diverse communities to celebrate shared histories and experiences, promoting inclusivity and mutual respect. In this way, Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival continues to make a significant impact, not only as a vibrant celebration of our culture but also as a catalyst for global unity and understanding.
TRIBE family of bands, band launch for Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2023
Moko Jumbie
Steelpan, Trinidad and Tobago's National instrument
MANY REASONS TO VISIT TRINIDAD
Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). Trinidad is a popular destination for MICE tourism, with a number of best in class facilities and services available. The island is also home to a variety of unique venues for events, such as the HADCO Experiences Asa Wright Nature Centre and the Pitch Lake.
Trinidad is a major hub for sport in the Caribbean, and hosts a number of international sporting events throughout the year. The island is also home to a number of world-class sporting facilities, such as the Brian Lara Stadium and the National Aquatic Centre.
Trinidad has a large diaspora community around the world, and the island is a popular destination for diaspora tourism. Visitors can learn about their Trinidadian heritage and connect with family and friends.
Trinidad is home to a number of colourful and exciting festivals throughout the year, including Carnival, Divali, and Emancipation Day. These festivals offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the island’s rich culture and heritage.
FESTIVAL DEVELOPMENT
Trinidad and Tobago is a melting pot of cultures that feeds into a number of national festivals such as Emancipation Day, Divali, Spiritual Shouter Baptist Day and of course Carnival. These festivals punctuate our national calendar.
After Carnival we have developed Culinary, Music, Fashon and Festive Season festival to further highlight our island’s diversity.
THE CULINARY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
You can also look forward to a greater emphasis on Community and particularly Culinary Tourism and immersive cultural experiences. We have done extensive work with small villages like Paramin known for their natural herbs and spices. One can easily spend an entire day in this small, tight knit community and sample dishes that showcase the foods that are grown in Paramin and visitors can enjoy in Paramin.
More than that, Trinidad is the culinary capital of the world. According to international culinary vlogger Mark Wiens who recently visited Trinidad, ‘the best way to experience Trinidad is to eat your way through Trinidad’.
Mark Wiens experiences Trinidad's unique culinary offering
FINALLY
“Always in Season” perfectly encapsulates the Trinidad experience. No matter when you choose to visit, there’s always something exciting to explore.
Are you a culture enthusiast seeking immersive experiences? Or perhaps you’re a night owl, eager to experience our vibrant nightlife and ‘liming’ culture?
For those drawn to natural wonders, Trinidad offers unique attractions like the La Brea Pitch Lake, often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. Imagine indulging in a therapeutic bath in one of our renowned volcanic mud pools, or witnessing the awe-inspiring sight of prehistoric Leatherback Turtles nesting on our shores.
Foodies will delight in tasting their way through Trinidad’s incredible cuisine, a testament to our rich cultural diversity.
And of course, no visit to Trinidad would be complete without experiencing the Mother of All Carnivals, the original Carnival that has inspired celebrations worldwide!
So, what are you waiting for? Visit Trinidad, where it’s always the perfect season!