Trinidad and Tobago

Geography
Located at the end of a 1000-km (620-mi) series of islands on the eastern boundary of the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago are just 11 km (6.8 mi) and 31 km (19 MI) off the coast of Venezuela, respectively. However, Trinidad is decidely more British, African and South Asian than South American.

History
Trinidad was spotted in 1498 by Columbus, who christened it La Isla de la Trinidad, for the Holy Trinity. The British took the islands from the Spanish in 1797. Slavery was abolished in the 1830s. As a result, the British imported thousands of indentured workers, mostly from India, to work. The indentured labor system remained in place for over 100 years.

The depression of the 1930s led to a series of strikes and riots and the growth of a labor movement on the islands. As a consequence, the British took measures to institute self-government. Independence finally came in 1962. An oil boom in the 1970s brought prosperity to the islands but the East Indian community became increasingly isolated from political power. Since then, the oil economy has declined while tourism is providing economic sustenance.

Language and Culture
The language of Trinidad is English, however, it includes many carry-overs from Hindi, Creole, Spanish and Chinese. The people are largely of African and East Indian descent. 25% of Trinidadians are Hindu and the vast majority are Christian.

Weather
Because of the islands' southerly location, temperatures are equable year round. June to August are the wettest months and February to May are the driest. Both islands are outside the central hurricane belt.

Currency
The Trinidad & Tobagan dollar (TT$).

What to Do
Trinidad's Carnival is the best in the Caribbean and takes place two days before Ash Wednesday in either February or March. Trinidad is also known for its lovely beaches, outdoor sports, rainforests, rich cuisine and nightlife. A visit to the more serene Tobago may also be a part of the itinerary.


For more on Trinidad visit www.visittnt.com

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