Since Abaco Travelers have a tendency to be well traveled, especially to the Caribbean area, this page will carry U.S. State Department Travel Advisories issued for popular Caribbean and near-Caribbean vacation destinations. This page will be updated within 48 hours of the issuance of any relevant advisory.
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TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
Date: Fri, 24 Jul 1998 13:20:21 -0400
From:U.S. Department of StateSTATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Trinidad & Tobago
Country Description: Trinidad and Tobago is a developing nation composed of two islands. Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements: A passport is required for entry to Trinidad and Tobago. Work permits are required for certain types of compensated and non-compensated employment, including missionary work. For further information concerning entry, employment and customs requirements, travelers may contact the Embassy of Trinidad and Tobago, 1708 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone (202) 467-6490 or consulates in Miami and New York City.
Medical Facilities: Medical care is more limited than in the U.S. Care at public health facilities is significantly below U.S. standards for treatment of serious injuries and illness. Care at some private facilities is better than at most public health facilities, but doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Ambulance service is extremely limited both in the quality of emergency care and in the availability of vehicles in many parts of the country. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the U.S. The Medicare Medicaid program does not provide for payment outside the United States. Supplementary medical insurance with specific coverage, including provision for medical evacuation, has proved useful. For additional health information, travelers may contact the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions international travelers hotline at 1-888-232-3228, or their autofax service at 1-888-232-3299, or their Internet address at http: www.cdc.gov .
Crime Information: The government of Trinidad and Tobago has taken several initiatives to curb the growing crime rate, which is a major concern among the populace. Foreign visitors should avoid isolated areas and public beaches after dark and take local advice on specific areas to avoid. Pilfering from hotel rooms occurs on both islands. Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewelry. Use hotel safety deposit boxes to store valuables, money and passports. Travelers should exercise normal precautions, avoid areas not frequented by tourists, and avoid traveling alone. Any incidents of crime should be reported to the local police and the U.S. Embassy in Port of Spain.
Traffic Safety Road Conditions: Traffic moves on the left. Roads and streets (except a few major highways) are narrow, in poor repair, and often congested. Driving patterns habits are unpredictable. Visitors are urged to drive defensively.
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated January 8, 1998
