Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Moving to Trinidad and Tobago is a dream for many: year-round warm climate, the Caribbean Sea, steelpan and Carnival, a blend of African, Indian, and European cultures. But behind the postcard image, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago also has levels of crime and risks that require thorough preparation before departure. A peaceful expatriation is possible, provided you understand the security context and adapt your lifestyle.
This article is based on official data and expatriate testimonies to address the essential aspects of planning a life abroad. It covers topics such as choosing a place to live, means of transportation, behaviors to adopt, healthcare management, natural risks, and the legal framework.
Understanding the context: a dynamic yet crime-prone country
Trinidad and Tobago is a country of 1.3 to 1.5 million people, a high-income economy driven by oil and gas. A stable democracy since 1962, a very diverse society and officially English-speaking, the country is often presented as one of the wealthiest in the Caribbean. The capital, Port of Spain, is the administrative, financial, and cultural center, at the heart of a metropolitan area of about 600,000 inhabitants.
At the same time, several indicators remind us that the security environment remains tense. Homicides have skyrocketed since the 1980s and regularly exceed several hundred cases per year. In 2024, the rate was around 37 murders per 100,000 inhabitants, placing the country among the most violent in the world. International rankings have even cited it in the group of the most dangerous nations.
Foreign governments (United States, Canada, United Kingdom) recommend increased vigilance, or even reconsidering travel to Port of Spain. OSAC classifies the city at the highest level of criminal risk, noting a marked increase in kidnappings, often linked to organized crime.
Nevertheless, the majority of tourist visits proceed without major incident. Violent crime mainly affects certain disadvantaged neighborhoods, in a context of drug trafficking and gang wars. The challenge for an expatriate is therefore to learn to navigate an environment where the contrasts between secure residential areas and very high-risk sectors are particularly stark.
Violence, gangs, and opportunistic crime
The spectrum of crime is broad: armed attacks, shootings, assaults, rape, ransom kidnappings, violent burglaries, carjackings, and home invasions. A significant portion of these incidents is directly linked to gangs and drug trafficking. The risk of being caught in crossfire on the street exists, even in broad daylight.
At the same time, opportunistic crimes are frequent: pickpocketing, bag snatching, car break-ins, credit card or ATM scams, online fraud. Theft of phones and valuables from cars (“smash and grab”) is also common.
The table below summarizes the main risks observed:
| Type of threat | Frequency / Main context | Most exposed group |
|---|---|---|
| Homicides / Shootings | Very high, especially in Trinidad, gang areas | Local residents, neighbors, witnesses |
| Armed assaults / violent robberies | Frequent, especially in cities and along certain routes | Residents, drivers, shopkeepers |
| Kidnappings (ransom) | Sharply increasing, sometimes targeting foreigners | Wealthy locals, visible expatriates |
| Simple theft, pickpocketing | Widespread in busy areas, stations, events | Tourists, workers, expats |
| Card/ATM fraud, scams | Frequent, including romance scams | Card users, seniors |
| Home invasions | Present in certain urban and tourist areas | Villa owners, expats |
The good news is that expatriates who incorporate these risks into their housing, transportation, and daily life decisions generally manage to keep them under control.
Where to live in Trinidad and Tobago prioritizing safety
Neighborhood choice is one of the most powerful levers for reducing exposure to crime. In Trinidad, not all areas of Port of Spain are equal, and some are explicitly advised against by embassies. Conversely, several residential neighborhoods, often on higher ground and inhabited by middle and upper classes, form relative security bubbles, highly sought after by expatriates.
Neighborhoods to prioritize around Port of Spain
Expatriates, diplomatic personnel, and corporate executives generally concentrate in a few well-identified sectors, to the west and north of Port of Spain, featuring gated communities, alarm systems, and security patrols.
Among the most sought-after:
In Port of Spain and its immediate periphery are the neighborhoods of Cascade, St. Ann’s, St. Clair, and Federation Park. Heading north, you find Maraval and Moka. To the west, Westmoorings, Goodwood Park, and Glencoe can be cited. Further east, Trincity is notable for its proximity to the airport and its large shopping centers.
The following table provides a comparative overview of these areas from the perspective of residential security:
| Neighborhood / Town | General profile | Security perception for expats |
|---|---|---|
| Westmoorings | Affluent suburb, near the sea | Highly sought after, frequent security patrols |
| Goodwood Park | High-end residential, villas | Secure, gated or monitored housing |
| Glencoe | Mix of apartments and houses | Recommended, good cost/security compromise |
| Maraval / Moka | Green valley, golf, schools | Very popular, many gated communities |
| Cascade / St. Ann’s | Hilly terrain, close to downtown | “Safe” neighborhoods if housing is secure |
| St. Clair / Fed. Park | Embassies, prestige residences | High level of security |
| Trincity | Near airport, shopping mall | Considered safe by residents, more affordable |
Conversely, several areas are known for their violence and are to be avoided for living, as well as during travel, especially after nightfall. This is notably the case for Laventille, Morvant, Beetham Estate Gardens, Sea Lots, South Belmont, certain sectors of Carenage, Belmont, Barataria, or the inner areas around Queen’s Park Savannah. US authorities explicitly forbid their own personnel from entering these zones.
Living in Tobago: a calmer atmosphere, but not without risks
Tobago, the smaller sister island, generally has much lower levels of violent crime than Trinidad. Incidents targeting visitors remain rare, although villa break-ins, sometimes accompanied by violence, occur in a few pockets.
Several localities are regularly cited as favorable for a stay or more permanent relocation.
A preserved environment and a quality of life following the seasons, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
The charm of the coast with a close-knit community, perfect for those seeking the sea air and a rejuvenating setting.
The authenticity of the countryside, a strong connection to the land, and generous living space for a long-term relocation.
Combines the advantages of urban services with a human scale, often featuring a vibrant associative and economic fabric.
– Scarborough, the capital, and its surroundings
– Crown Point, near the A.N.R. Robinson airport
– Castara, Speyside, Plymouth, Bethel, Carnbee, Buccoo, Lowlands, Bon Accord Village
Some tourist establishments, like hotels located in gated compounds in Speyside, benefit from strict access control, with guards and a single monitored road.
However, one must remain cautious on isolated beaches or waterfalls, especially in areas already targeted by home burglaries (for example Mt. Irvine / Buccoo Bay, Bacolet) and completely avoid solitary walks in remote sites like Englishman’s Bay or certain waterfalls, especially early in the morning or at dusk.
Getting around safely: cars, taxis, and public transport
How you get around will weigh as heavily on your security as your neighborhood choice. Here too, a number of clear and non-negotiable rules apply.
Driving yourself: yes, but with big-city reflexes
In Trinidad and Tobago, you drive on the left, with vehicles mostly having the steering wheel on the right. Main roads are decent, but secondary roads can be narrow, poorly maintained, poorly lit, and lined with pedestrians.
Speeding, drunk driving, failure to use turn signals, and cars in poor condition are part of the landscape. Fatal accidents on major routes, especially corridors serving Piarco airport and Port of Spain (Beetham, Churchill-Roosevelt Highway, East-West Corridor), are frequent.
Add to this a criminal risk: carjackings, armed robberies in traffic, “bump and rob” (light collisions to force a stop), or road trapping with debris to immobilize cars.
To limit the dangers, several reflexes are essential:
To travel safely, it is recommended to drive with windows up and doors locked, particularly in the city and at traffic lights. Prioritize daytime travel, especially between the airport and the capital. In case of a light rear-end collision in a suspicious context, stay in your vehicle and contact the police. Choose well-lit and monitored parking areas, without leaving visible objects inside. Always adjust your speed, especially on unlit roads or in rainy weather.
Canadian, British, or similar driver’s licenses are accepted for up to 90 days. Beyond that, an international license or local procedures are required.
Taxis, maxis, and ride-hailing: sorting them out
The public transport network is abundant but heterogeneous. We distinguish:
– Public buses, inexpensive but irregular
– Maxi-taxis, shared private minibuses, widely used by locals
– Route-taxis (shared cars) identifiable by a license plate starting with the letter H
– A few water-taxi services between Port of Spain and San Fernando or Chaguaramas
– Local ride-hailing type apps
For an expatriate, the security logic is fairly simple: the more official and traceable the vehicle, the better. International recommendations clearly advise avoiding maxi-taxis, unmarked taxis, and spontaneous offers by the roadside. Some cases of assault, theft, or even sexual assault have involved unregistered vehicles.
It is therefore better to:
For a safe taxi ride, it is advisable to book by phone or through a recognized dispatch service, recommended by your employer, hotel, or colleagues. Before getting in, confirm the fare, as meters are rare. Note the license plate number and the company name, and if possible, share your trip live with a contact. Be particularly vigilant on trips to or from an airport, especially in the evening, as these journeys are considered sensitive.
Several local mobility apps have emphasized security features (verified drivers, GPS tracking, SOS buttons). They can be an interesting option, but it’s prudent to have a plan B (numbers of reliable taxis) in case the service is unavailable.
Walking and nighttime travel
During the day, walking in busy central neighborhoods or business districts is common, but night changes the situation radically. Recommendations converge:
– Avoid traveling on foot after dark, especially alone
– Avoid parks, beaches, panoramic forts, or non-residential areas in the evening (Fort George, interior of Queen’s Park Savannah, deserted beaches)
– Prefer a pre-booked taxi even for short distances, especially when leaving restaurants or bars
Even in broad daylight, save the headphones for the gym: on the street, it’s better to hear what’s happening around you.
Housing: turning your home into a “security bubble”
Expatriates often describe their daily life as that of a big American city: “you live well, but you stay aware.” Housing plays a central role in this serenity. In Trinidad and Tobago, it is common to have:
– Gate and fence
– Decorative grilles on windows
– Alarm system
– Reinforced exterior lighting
– Sometimes security guards and patrols
For an expatriate, these features are not a luxury, but a standard. When searching for housing, it’s better to prioritize:
Different types of housing offering varying levels of security to meet residents’ protection needs.
Residential communities with strict access control for residents and their guests.
Buildings equipped with a 24/7 manned reception or security service.
Individual houses protected by an alarm connected to a monitoring company, exterior lighting, and reinforced doors.
The following table summarizes elements to check before signing a lease:
| Security element | Why it’s important |
|---|---|
| Fence / Gate | Deterrent, delay in case of intrusion |
| Window grilles | Prevents rapid intrusions through broken glass |
| Monitored alarm | Faster response in case of burglary |
| Exterior lighting | Reduces dark areas attractive to intruders |
| Guard / Patrols | Visible surveillance, deterrent effect |
| Organized neighborhood | Ability to help each other, collective vigilance |
In isolated villas, on both Trinidad and Tobago, these measures are even more crucial as some series of home invasions have targeted vacation homes or expatriate properties.
Daily life: anti-risk routines for expatriates
Personal security also depends on a set of reflexes, which eventually become automatic. Many expatriates describe a gradual adaptation: you start very wary, then identify margins for maneuver, without ever falling into carelessness.
A few structuring principles emerge recurrently.
Managing valuables and travel
Wearing luxury watches, flashy jewelry, a large camera around your neck, or a brand-new smartphone prominently in hand is an open invitation to thieves. It is more reasonable to:
– Limit visible valuables in public spaces
– Carry only small amounts of cash, in different pockets
– Use the safe in your accommodation for passports, secondary bank cards, and large sums
– Regularly check bank statements to detect any fraud
During major events (carnivals, concerts, festivals), the risk of pickpocketing increases considerably. It is advisable to wear a waist pack under your clothes, use a cheap phone, and carry only the bare minimum of cash.
Drinks, encounters, and dating apps
As in many tourist destinations, alcohol and impromptu encounters sometimes serve as gateways for thieves or attackers. Cases of drugs placed in drinks, post-party theft, or traps set via dating apps (including apps dedicated to LGBT+ or general audiences) are documented.
The advice is simple but must be applied without exception:
For your safety, never leave your drink unattended and refuse drinks already poured by a stranger. Prefer sealed bottles. When meeting someone from an app, choose a public place, inform a contact, and avoid inviting the person to your home. Online, do not disclose your income level or professional situation.
In case of assault: don’t play the hero
One point is agreed upon by authorities and residents alike: when faced with an armed criminal, the priority is to stay alive. Resisting a robbery, trying to hold onto your bag, or protecting your phone significantly increases the risk of serious violence.
The instruction is therefore clear:
– Cooperate, hand over the money or items requested
– Discreetly observe descriptive elements (car, direction of flight, physical details) if possible
– Go to a police station to file a report, especially for insurance purposes
– In case of sexual assault, seek immediate medical attention at a healthcare facility
Health and medical system: planning ahead to avoid bad surprises
A peaceful expatriation also involves health. Trinidad and Tobago offers a mixed public/private system. Public medicine is supposed to guarantee free access to primary care for all, including foreigners, but the reality is more nuanced: overloaded public hospitals, lack of equipment and personnel, long waiting times.
Public vs. private: what expatriates need to know
In the public sector, access to basic consultations and emergencies is free, even for non-citizens, subject to presenting identification and, sometimes, proof of address. However, many specialized or long-term treatments are not covered for foreigners: medications for chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, glaucoma, depression, etc.), chemotherapy, some HIV care, adult dental care (except extractions and emergencies).
The major public reference facilities – Port of Spain General Hospital, San Fernando General Hospital, Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Scarborough General Hospital in Tobago – suffer from a chronic lack of resources and time. This is why most expatriates opt for:
– A private international insurance covering care in the private sector and medical evacuation
– Routine health follow-up (consultations, exams, deliveries) in private clinics like St. Clair Medical Center, Westshore Medical, Community Hospital of Seventh‑day Adventists, or their equivalents in San Fernando and Tobago
The rule is almost universal in the private sector: immediate payment in cash or by card, before or right after treatment, including in emergencies.
The table below summarizes the strengths and weaknesses of each sector for an expatriate:
| Type of facility | Advantages | Disadvantages for a foreigner |
|---|---|---|
| Public hospitals | Free emergency care, extensive network | Waiting, lack of equipment, limited comfort |
| Public health centers | Low-cost primary access, vaccinations | Partial coverage of medications |
| Private clinics | Speed, more modern equipment | High cost, immediate payment |
| Specialized centers | Oncology, cardiology, ophthalmology | Very costly care without insurance |
Local health risks and prevention
As in many tropical countries, several infectious risks exist: hepatitis A and B, typhoid, dengue, chikungunya, Zika, Oropouche virus, rabies, digestive illnesses linked to water and food. Malaria is mentioned in some documents as requiring chemoprophylaxis depending on traveler profiles.
On a practical level, this means: you must consider the implications of each decision.
– Consult a travel medicine doctor before departure to check vaccinations (hepatitis, typhoid, updating basic vaccines)
– Monitor mosquito protection: repellents, long clothes in the evening, mosquito nets, special attention for pregnant women (Zika risk)
– Consume bottled or filtered water, especially outside major cities, as network outages and contamination are frequent
– Be vigilant with street food stalls, choosing very busy places and well-cooked food
Water shortages during the dry season (January to May) can affect certain areas of Trinidad and Tobago, requiring water storage for domestic use. This must be taken into account when choosing housing (storage capacity, tank, cistern).
Natural risks: hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes
Trinidad and Tobago is located at the southern end of the Caribbean, which partly protects it from classical hurricane tracks. Direct hits are rare, but the country remains exposed to tropical waves, heavy rains, violent storms, and flooding during the wet season, from June to December. Peak months are between August and October.
The authorities, via the national meteorological service and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), emphasize the need for individual preparation: stock of food and water for at least a week, emergency kit, family plan in case of evacuation, documentation of belongings for insurance, etc.
As the country is located in an active seismic zone, it is crucial to know basic safety instructions. This includes taking cover, moving away from fragile structures, and avoiding elevators in the event of an earthquake, as was reminded by a significant quake in 2018.
Finally, the presence of the submarine volcano Kick’em Jenny, off Grenada, is monitored, primarily for risks of abnormal waves and maritime disruptions.
For an expatriate, the main points are:
– Register for local alert systems (TTMS, ODPM, TEMA) and possibly the STEP program or equivalent from your country
– Have an emergency kit ready (water, non-perishable food, medications, document copies, small cash)
– Know the local emergency numbers, potential shelters, and your neighborhood’s organization in case of a crisis
Beyond crime and natural risks, certain legal and cultural specificities must be integrated from the start of expatriation planning.
Sensitive laws: drugs, morals, and camouflage
Legislation on narcotics is severe. While possession of small amounts of cannabis (up to 30 g or 5 g of resin) has been decriminalized, public consumption remains illegal and penalties for possession or trafficking of larger quantities, or other drugs, can be very heavy (large fines, long prison sentences).
Another frequent feature in the Caribbean, but applied with rigor in Trinidad and Tobago: the prohibition for civilians to wear military-style camouflage clothing or to import it without authorization. These items are sometimes confiscated upon arrival at the airport.
The legal framework criminalizes consensual homosexual relations between adults, with theoretical penalties of up to five years in prison. Entry onto the territory by LGBT+ nationals is also illegal in text, although rarely enforced. It is crucial to measure the legal risk and social context, often marked by a macho culture and potential hostility toward public displays of affection between same-sex persons.
Social expectations, street harassment, and the place of women
Trinidad and Tobago society is known as warm, attached to family and conviviality. Greetings (“good morning,” “good afternoon”) are important, especially outside urban centers, as is respect for elders and the use of titles (“Mister,” “Miss,” “Doctor”).
On the street, however, especially in Trinidad, some women – particularly solo travelers – report persistent comments, insinuations, or “sweet talk” considered locally as flattering, but perceived elsewhere as harassment. This phenomenon does not reach the level of some neighboring Caribbean destinations, but it surprises newly arrived expatriates. Adopting relatively modest attire outside beaches, politely ignoring remarks, and keeping a confident demeanor helps defuse these situations.
Terrorism and heightened security context
The country has experienced serious episodes in the past: an attempted coup in 1990, waves of bombings in the 2000s, a foiled plot to attack Carnival in 2018. Groups linked to international terrorism have been identified, with some citizens having left to join extremist organizations.
The threat level remains moderate but real, with international warnings about possible attacks targeting places frequented by foreigners (airports, hotels, cultural events, places of worship). States of emergency have been declared, granting security forces expanded powers (searches, arrests without warrant) and increasing their street presence.
For an expatriate, this translates mainly to: cultural challenges, adapting to the new lifestyle, managing language differences, and maintaining relations with the home country.
– The need to carry identification and cooperate in case of a check
– The importance of following local news and your embassy’s safety instructions
– Increased vigilance during large gatherings (Carnival, major concerts, religious festivals)
Managing money and fraud: digital and banking caution
Financial scams and card or ATM fraud are well established. Skimming devices (magnetic plates concealed in ATM slots) have been detected. Attempts at fraud by phone or internet target especially the elderly (fake calls from a “grandson in prison,” online romances with requests for money transfers).
A few rules to integrate into your banking habits:
To withdraw money safely, prefer ATMs located in reputable banks or shopping malls, during the day. Visually inspect the machine (slot, keypad) before use. Always shield the keypad when entering your PIN and never give your card or PIN to a third party, even one presenting themselves as an employee. Regularly monitor your statements online. It is also advisable to limit the spending limits on cards used locally and keep a backup card.
Conclusion: an expatriation possible, but not to be improvised
Living in Trinidad and Tobago can be an exciting experience: cultural diversity, omnipresent music, landscapes contrasting refineries and beaches, intense social life around “liming.” Many expatriates describe a pleasant quality of life, a climate they enjoy, and strong ties woven within the international community and with locals.
But this success rests on a non-negotiable condition: accepting not to replicate exactly the habits from a low-crime country. Concretely, this means:
For a peaceful relocation, prioritize secure residential neighborhoods (Westmoorings, Maraval, Cascade, Tobago villages). Choose well-protected housing (grilles, alarm). Prefer reliable taxis, limit nighttime travel, and adopt a low-profile attitude (avoid signs of wealth, be cautious on social media). Take out international health insurance, identify reputable private clinics, and prepare a family plan for natural risks.
For a family expatriation project, these precautions become even more crucial, especially for school commutes, choice of leisure activities, and home security.
The country presents a contrasted security context, mixing dangerous zones and safe enclaves, hospitality and organized crime. A peaceful and enriching expatriation is possible by adopting a clear-eyed approach, staying informed, and integrating safety practices into daily life.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
