The United States Department of State has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago. The previous travel advisory for the Caribbean island has been revised in light of the ongoing state of emergency, with US officials warning Americans to postpone or cancel their travel plans due to “increased risks of terrorism and kidnapping” in T&T.
The revised advisory details the changes implemented by the Trinidad and Tobago government as a result of the State of Emergency.
Trinidad and Tobago with a population of 1.5 million is currently experiencing one of the highest murder rates in the Caribbean, having recorded more than 623 homicides in the previous year.
Trinidad and Tobago capital city, Port of Spain, also experiences frequent incidents of violence and shootings, with gang-related activities being prevalent, State Department warned.
On March 21, US Department of State posted the following updated Trinidad and Tobago travel travel advisory on its official website:
“Updated due to temporary nationwide State of Emergency
Reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to serious risks from crime. There are also heightened risks of terrorism and kidnapping.
State of Emergency
On December 30, 2024, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (GOTT) declared a nationwide State of Emergency (SOE). This is due to ongoing criminal activity that could threaten public safety. On January 13, 2025, Parliament extended the SOE until April 2025.
During the State of Emergency, the GOTT has imposed the following measures:
- The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service has the authority to:
– Arrest people on suspicion of involvement in illegal activities.
– Search and enter public and private properties as needed. - Bail is suspended for those suspected of committing a crime.
- Members of the Defense Force are following similar regulations as the local police.
- There are currently no curfews or restrictions on public gatherings.
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago will monitor the SOE daily. Restrictions may change with little or no notice.
Violence and shootings occur regularly in some areas of Port of Spain. Due to the risks, US government employees working in Trinidad and Tobago are prohibited from traveling to the following areas in Port of Spain:
At any time:
- Laventille,
- The southern end of Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street (past the General Hospital)
- Piccadilly Street
- Besson Street
- Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah.
After dark:
- Downtown Port of Spain
- Fort George overlook, and all beaches.
Advisory summary: Violent crime is common in Trinidad and Tobago. It includes:
- Murder
- Robbery
- Assault
- Sexual assault
- Home invasion
- Kidnapping
Gang activity, such as narcotics trafficking, is common. A significant portion of violent crime is gang related.
Foreigners and a US legal permanent resident have been recent victims of kidnapping.
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Trinidad and Tobago. Visit the US Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.
Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They may target:
- Tourist locations
- Transportation centers (airports)
- Markets and, shopping malls
- Local government buildings
- Hotels and clubs
- Restaurants
- Places of worship
- Parks
- Major sporting and cultural events
- Schools
If you decide to travel to Trinidad and Tobago:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
- Review the Country Security Report for Trinidad and Tobago.
- Use caution when walking or driving at night. Avoid poorly lit or remote areas.
- Be aware of possible online dating scams, either for potential financial theft or physical harm.
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as cash, expensive watches or jewelry.
- Stay alert when visiting banks and ATMs.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt unless forced into a vehicle or isolated area.
- Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans based on new information.
- Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
- Develop a communication plan with family or your employer or host organization (if you are traveling on business). This is so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you’ll confirm you’re safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you’ll contact first to share the information.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.”
Famous for its stunning beaches and festive Carnival events,Trinidad and Tobago has always drawn American visitors, although the travel advisory issued by the US may deter numerous American travelers from exploring the islands. And as spring break approaches, there may be a notable decrease in US university and college students’ interest in this Caribbean destination.
Tourism plays a crucial role in the economy of Trinidad and Tobago, contributing millions of dollars each year. A substantial portion of tourists originates from the United States. A decrease in American visitors could have a detrimental effect on local economies, especially for businesses that depend on international expenditures.
With this latest US Department of State update, Trinidad and Tobago now joins several other destinations, such as Egypt, Pakistan, Colombia, Bangladesh, Guyana, New Caledonia, and Macau, that have also been subjects of US travel advisories recently, due to an increase in safety concerns that impact both visitors and local inhabitants.