Expat Coffee | Your guide to being an expatriate in Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago is a dynamic nation situated in the southern Caribbean Sea. Its twin-island formation comprises Trinidad, which is largely hilly and forested, and Tobago, which boasts luxurious beaches and crystal-clear waters. The two islands are connected by air and sea, making it easy for travelers to explore both. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Trinidad and Tobago celebrates a unique Caribbean vibe through festivities like Carnival, Odyssey, and Diwali. This Caribbean paradise also prides itself on its diverse population, including indigenous, African, Indian, and European descendants, speaking various dialects of English, Creole, and dialects of Hindi and Chinese.

Expat destinations in Trinidad and Tobago

Port of Spain

San Fernando

Demographics of Trinidad and Tobago:

Ethnic groups

Indigenous, African, Indian, and European descendants

Languages

English (official), Creole English

Religion Overview

Trinidad and Tobago's religious landscape is diverse, consisting predominantly of Christianity (65.8%), Islam (17.2%), Hinduism (13.1%), and Roman Catholicism (5.6%). Trinidad and Tobago is also home to Baptist, Christian Fellowship, Methodist, Moravian, and Pentecostal communities, among others.

Major Religions

Climate

Trinidad and Tobago has a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity, with precipitation through most of the year.

Economy Overview

Trinidad and Tobago has a mixed economy with significant emphasis on the energy sector, comprising oil and gas. The country's primary sectors include finance and banking, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism.

Key Industries

Oil and Gas
Finance and Banking
Manufacturing
Agriculture
Tourism

Major Companies

Petrotrin
National Gas
Petrojam
Air Products (Trinidad) Limited
Paras Solutions Limited
Emirates NBD Asset Management Limited
Guardian Media Limited
Royal Bank of Trinidad and Tobago Limited
Axis Mutual Funds Limited
Bank of Baroda (Trinidad and Tobago) Limited
Scotiabank Trinidad and Tobago Limited
Affion Energy Limited
First Citizens Limited
The Financial Group Limited
Heritage Petroleum Company Limited
Tobago Plantations Limited
National Agro-Processors and Holding Company Limited
Foby's International Limited
Caribbean Flavours and Fragrances Limited
British American Insurance Company Limited

Culture and Language Overview

Trinidad and Tobago's diverse population has given way to a vibrant cultural scene, characterized by its rich music and dance heritage, including calypso, soca, and steelpan. The country is also known for its Carnival celebrations, which have become an integral part of the global cultural scene.

Cultural Highlights

Carnival celebrations
Steelpan music
Limbo dancing
Diwali (the Hindu festival of lights)
Christmas traditions (including Jingle Bells parang)
Traditional Creole dishes (such as callaloo, doubles, and pelau)
Caribbean classics (including Bob Marley, Rihanna, and Harry Belafonte)
Independence Day (August 31)
Masquerade Carnival (preceding Carnival)
Phagwah Carnival (also known as the Holi festival)
Hosay (Muslim religious processions)
Divali Nagar (celebrating the Hindu festival of lights)
Cherry Festival (celebrating local fruits)
Coconut Festival (in memory of local heroes)
Trade Winds Festival (including supercat grooming and yacht racing)
Anancy Stories Festival (commemorating the Anansi folk hero)]

Geography and Landmarks Overview

Trinidad and Tobago boasts an area of approximately 5,128 square kilometers, largely dissected by deep valleys and green ridges. The country's beaches, swamps, waterfalls, and wildlife preserves are home to an array of indigenous fauna and flora.