Trinidad and Tobago
map | facts

Lying 9 miles off the coast of Venezuela, Trinidad is a Caribbean paradise and the southernmost link in the Antillean chain of islands. Trinidad is part of the two-island nation known as Trinidad & Tobago. Yet, although these two islands are linked in their government and geographical proximity, they are quite varied.

Trinidad's recorded history is thousands of years old, but the region became known to Europeans in the 15th century, when Columbus sailed around its southern bay. Sighting three large mountain peaks on the island, he named the land La Trinidad, in reverence to the Holy Trinity. In 1797, the British Empire captured Trinidad from the Spanish, ending more than 300 years of Spanish rule.

In more modern times, Trinidad has grown into a major tourist destination in part because of its success in the oil industry. The booming petroleum business in the area made Trinidad into an ideal location for upscale business travelers. Therefore, an entire industry unfolded which catered to these foreign travelers. Today, Trinidad remains a prosperous island that welcomes cruise ships from all over the world to dock at its picturesque capital, Port of Spain.

Port of Spain is a cultural and visual highlight of any cruise excursion. A city of just over 50,000, it is known throughout the world for its vibrant and colorful festivals, including the annual Carnival celebration. It is a great melting pot of cultures, featuring prominent African, European, Indian, and Asian dining, architecture, and language.

In and around the Port of Spain and Trinidad itself, you will be treated to a land that has been spared from the massive over-development that has troubled other notable ports of call. Instead, you will find ample beaches that have remained in their pristine states, casual and elegant dining in friendly local restaurants, and a great assortment of activities and events that will allow you and your family to explore this magical island and all it has to offer.

History
The original inhabitants of Trinidad were an Arawak sub-group called Igneri who were relatively peaceful and engaged in primitive agriculture. Caribs also inhabited the island. The Spaniards landed on this island in 1498. During the French revolutionary period many French families went to Trinidad from Haiti. Trinidad capitulated to a British force during this period and was ceded to Britain in 1802. Slavery was abolished in 1833 and between 1845 and 1917 more than 150,000 Muslim and Hindu Indians were brought to the island by the British to replace plantation slaves.

Tobago, inhabited by the Caribs, was held by the Spanish, the British, Dutch and French before finally being ceded to Britain.

Trinidad and Tobago gained its independence from Britain on August 31, 1962.

People and Culture
The people of Trinidad and Tobago are West Indians of African, East Indian, Chinese, West European and Middle Eastern descent. English is the main language although Spanish, Hindi and a French patois are also used. About three-fifths of the population is Christian, with Roman Catholics constituting the largest single group, followed by Anglicans. Hindus and Muslims make up the major non-Christian religion.

Trinidad and Tobago has a cultural blend which is quite evident in its music and cuisine. The twin-island Republic boasts one of the world's best carnival celebrations. Steel band and calypso are national symbols of this country known as the Land of the Hummingbird.

Economy
The economy of Trinidad and Tobago is based on the production and refining of petroleum. Some US $5 billion has been invested in the country's energy sector over the past three years. Asphalt production also represents a significant percentage of export earnings. The manufacturing sector includes process foods, tobacco products, rum, refined petroleum, petro chemicals, electronic equipment and fertilizer. Steel and iron are also produced. The country has a significant agricultural sector which include sugar cane, citrus, vegetables, coffee and coconut cultivation. Tourism is a fast expanding sector realizing substantial foreign exchange earnings.

Places of Interest
Trinidad and Tobago offers a variety of interesting sites and attractions such as the Pitch Lake, the As a Wright Nature Center, Maracas Waterfall as well as Argyle Waterfall and Bird of Paradise Island off Tobago which is a major seabird sanctuary. Tobago boasts some of the Caribbean most beautiful beaches.