What do I need to know before moving to Trinidad & Tobago?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Trinidad & Tobago, they said...
"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 another expat in West Moorings, 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 a member in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Trinidad & Tobago?
- How do I find a place to live in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What is the average cost of housing in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What should I pack when moving to Trinidad & Tobago?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Trinidad & Tobago?
- Why do people move to Trinidad & Tobago?
- What are healthcare services like in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What are medical services in Trinidad & Tobago like?
- What are typical rents in Trinidad & Tobago?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do I need to know before moving to Trinidad & Tobago?
If you live in Trinidad & Tobago, newcomers to Trinidad & Tobago would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.