Pros and Cons of Living in Trinidad & Tobago
Last updated on Feb 04, 2024
Summary: The pros of living in Trinidad & Tobago include the warm climate, the beautiful beaches, the vibrant culture, and the friendly people. Additionally, the country has a strong economy and a low cost of living. On the other hand, the cons of living in Trinidad & Tobago include the high crime rate, the lack of job opportunities, and the limited access to quality healthcare. Additionally, the country is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods.
What are the pros and cons of living in Trinidad & Tobago?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Trinidad & Tobago responded:
"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the warm climate and friendly people of Trinidad & Tobago. The country is known for its vibrant culture, with a mix of Caribbean, African, and Indian influences. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the lack of reliable public transportation and infrastructure to be a challenge. Additionally, the country's high crime rate can be a deterrent for some," said one in Trinidad & Tobago.
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What do expats in Trinidad & Tobago appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Trinidad & Tobago appreciate the vibrant culture, which is a mix of African, Indian, and European influences. They also enjoy the friendly and welcoming people, the beautiful beaches, and the delicious local cuisine. The country is also known for its lively music and festivals, which are a great way to experience the culture. Additionally, expats appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the relaxed pace of life in Trinidad & Tobago," remarked one in Trinidad & Tobago.
"I love the tropical weather. We live near the bay, and I love to watch the birds and ships go in and out. The Trinis are a happy, fun-loving, music-addicted culture - people burst into song in the grocery, always have time to chat and spare a laugh. Social life is very family-oriented, though, and while many Trinis are friendly on the surface, getting to know them more deeply isn't the norm. They tend to socialize with their own extended families. I have yet to be invited to a Trini's house for dinner that wasn't a business function, although I've had them over. Ex-pats socialize with each other, though," explained one expat.
What do expats find most challenging?
"People lie, people don't do anything perfect, they are lazy, they have no pride in what they do, they have no aspiration to achieve a goal," explained one expat.
"Expats in Trinidad & Tobago often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The pace of life is slower and more relaxed than in many other countries, and the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand. Additionally, the local language, Trinidadian English, can be difficult to understand for those who are not native speakers. Furthermore, the local cuisine is quite different from what many expats are used to, and the heat and humidity can be a challenge to adjust to," said one person in Trinidad & Tobago.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Trinidad & Tobago accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Trinidad & Tobago like?
- Is the cost of living in Trinidad & Tobago high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What are healthcare services like in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Is the cost of living in Trinidad & Tobago high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What is the weather like in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Are there good restaurants in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?