Moving to Trinidad & Tobago

"Generally in the areas I mentioned above there is very little crime. Houses in those areas are more expensive, but you can negotiate! Also, look at more than a couple of houses don't be pressured into renting the first one you see because the agent has told you it's safe and you won't find any better! There is a lot of crime in Trinidad but when you read the papers or listen to the news it is Trinidadian people fighting / killing each other! Saying that... you need to have your wits about you and be more alert. For example, when deciding where to park your car when you go to the supermarket. Definitely do not leave anything visable in your car. Don't walk around with lots of cash on you. Make sure that nobody is watching / following you when you are at a cash point. These are basic things that I suppose you subconsciously do back home, but here it needs to be done more vigilantly. All in all, I really like living in Trinidad, and I am sure that there are a lot worse places you could go! You are probably thinking "I am never moving there," but the climate is great, there are some beautiful places to visit (boat trips round the smaller islands of Trinidad and Tobago), seeing leatherback turtles and liming (chilling out) on the beach. What I like the most is having quality time with my family -- and getting that time is very easy in Trinidad. Also the other Caribbean islands are very accessible and most hotels give a special caricom rates," remarked one expat who made the move to West Moorings.

"Laventille, Enterprise, Sea Lots, Blue Basin and some rural places are where you DON'T want to live. If you are brown, you will fit in anywhere. Try for higher ground because flooding is common on days of rain, but not where vegetation is missing because mudslides do happen," explained one expat living in Carenage, Trinidad & Tobago.

"We were limited to what the realitor wanted to show us, mainly West Morings. My husband talked to people at work (other expats and locals) and they told us about different areas. We insisted in viewing the other areas we knew of. (Like the US, realitors are looking at their best interest; not yours. They want to show you where they have rental properties, need I say more...) Secondly, Drive to work and back during your work hours once you find the area you like. Adjust the hours or the location depending on your choice. Everyone complains about traffic, but Houston's traffic is the same if not worse with 6 lanes on every road," said one expat in Port of Spain.

"Trinidad & Tobago is a culturally diverse country with a rich history and vibrant culture. Expats should be aware that English is the official language, but many locals also speak a local dialect called Trinbagonian Creole. Expats should also be aware that the climate is tropical and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-30s Celsius. Additionally, expats should be aware that the cost of living in Trinidad & Tobago is relatively high, and that the currency is the Trinidad & Tobago Dollar (TTD). Finally, expats should be aware that the country has a strong religious presence, with Christianity being the dominant faith," said one expat who made the move to Trinidad & Tobago.

"We do not have children going to the international school, so that opened our options where to live. We chose Moka, Maraval by the golf course. It's green and mountainouse. It's a 10 minute drive to the city or a 15 minute drive to the Carribean, Maracus Beach. The houses are newer and larger. You get more for your money. **Fresh Fruit / Vegetable stands on corners. You won't find that in West Morings," said one expat in Port of Spain.

"We were informed by an estate agent the areas where expats tend to live, the areas being West Moorings, Goodwood Park and Fairways Maraval. The Estate agents are very good although you will find that all agents know each other and tend to have the same properties on their listings," said one expat who made the move to West Moorings.

"Expat homes and apartments in Trinidad & Tobago tend to be modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, cable TV, and internet access. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments often come with a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and tennis courts. Expats can also find homes and apartments in more traditional neighborhoods, where they can experience the local culture and cuisine," commented one expat who made the move to Trinidad & Tobago.

"In a mansion basically - every bedroom is ensuite and has a veranda. Pool, jacuzzi and view of the sea. I didn't want to live with expats, I wanted to live with Trinis. There is a gate at the community entrance and I have gates at my house," remarked one expat in Carenage, Trinidad & Tobago.

"We live in a 4 bedroom house with a pool and a small garden which is ideal for the children. There is not much land and the houses are generally overlooked by other houses! Also, because of the high crime rate in Trinidad you will find that there are wrought iron bars on all windows and doors. Some do blend in with the houses and after a while you do tend to forget about them - but they are obviously there for a reason," said one expat in West Moorings.

"The cost of housing in Trinidad & Tobago varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the average cost of a house in Trinidad & Tobago is quite high, with prices ranging from mid-range to luxury. Renting is also an option, with prices ranging from moderate to expensive," said one expat in Trinidad & Tobago.

"Housing is higher here then in Canada, but there is less land here and that is expensive," said one expat who made the move to Port of Spain.

"Lower. If you want the false security of where expats live (and thus to me, a target for when SHTF) you are going to pay crazy high prices because Trinis rent these houses to corporations and get big money from them. If you live in a nice community without expats in Trinidad, it is much more reasonable. My house is $2,800US with 5 bedroom, 5 bath, all stainless kitchen, pool, jacuzzi, view and I'm right by Chaguaramus, beaches, and town. The one road in and out sucks but nothing is perfect. PS - my electric bill per month is the equivalent of $150US - I paid $350 a month in the summer to cool my ranch house in the US!!," explained one expat living in Carenage, Trinidad & Tobago.

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Trinidad & Tobago, it is important to consider your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Buying a home can be a great investment, as it can provide you with a stable place to live and the potential for appreciation in value. However, it also requires a large upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs. Renting a home can be a more affordable option, as it requires less of an upfront investment and no maintenance costs. However, it does not provide the same potential for appreciation in value. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Trinidad & Tobago should be based on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat who made the move to Trinidad & Tobago.

"WIFI Extender (homes are concrete), Hoodies, Sweaters, Jackets for indoors, Tech Gadgets," said one expat in Carenage.

"Originally we were supposed to have a furnished home... With that in mind we packed enough for 2 weeks to live in a hotel. There's not much we brought that we shouldn't have. Things that I wish I would have brought... 1) Bedding: If you like 1000 count sheets like I do, they are hard to find. If you find them they are expensive and not the quality as the ones in the states. Plus, bedding sets are hard to find and there is no variety. 2) Summer clothes: Clothes are expensive and everything looks the same. You pay about $50 US for a sun dress that you would buy for $15 - $20 US. 3) Spices: You are limited to local spices and seasonings. Some grocery stores sell imported items, but you are limited to what they provide," said one expat who made the move to Port of Spain.

"There is a quarentine in Trinidad even though there is rabies here so I wish we could have brought our cat. It is expensive so I bring stuff from home each year but you can get everything here, just costs more. We are a family of 6 and travel very light so everything I have taken I have needed," explained one expat living in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.

"Since I have troubles understanding the local slang, I sang a song from the radio like this: "Granny, girl, tell me why you are hunting me..." (thinking of the dead grandmother as a ghost) while the original goes like this: Indrani, girl, tell me why you are horning me... Indrani = a girl's name," commented one expat who made the move to San Fernando.

"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Trinidad & Tobago. It is considered rude to show up late to social gatherings, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. It is also important to be aware of local religious customs, and to be respectful of religious holidays and places of worship. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local taboos, such as discussing politics or religion in public. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local people and their culture, and to avoid making any negative comments about their culture or customs," remarked one expat in Trinidad & Tobago.

"Trinidad & Tobago offers expats a unique cultural experience, with a vibrant mix of Caribbean, Indian, African, and European influences. The country is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other Caribbean countries, making it an attractive option for expats. The country also offers excellent healthcare and education systems, as well as a strong economy and job opportunities. Additionally, the people of Trinidad & Tobago are known for their friendly and welcoming attitude, making it a great place to live and work," replied one expat when asked about moving to Trinidad & Tobago.

"Healthcare services in Trinidad & Tobago are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Trinidad & Tobago can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," wrote one expat living in Trinidad & Tobago.

"Medical services in Trinidad & Tobago are generally of a high standard. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. The country also has a number of private medical facilities, offering a range of services from general practice to specialist care. The government also provides free or subsidized medical care for those in need. In addition, the country has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," offered one expat living in Trinidad & Tobago.