So… you’re here for Carnival in hot and sunny Trinidad and Tobago. What do you bring, what do you wear?

DO wear light, comfortable clothing. Swimsuits aren’t usual city wear, only on Carnival Monday and Tuesday, when anything goes, well…almost.

DO wear comfortable shoes, e.g. sneakers. Those trekking sandals work well also. There is a lot of walking involved at Carnival time.

DO carry ID with you, including your address while in Trinidad.

DO try the local cuisine from the roadside vendors, just remember to look for the food handler’s licence.

DO carry and use lots of sunscreen. You don’t want to miss the party because of sunburn.

DO drink lots of fluids. Carnival falls right in the middle of the ‘dry season’, so you can get dehydrated easily without recognizing it.

DO ask for assistance if you need it. There are many uniformed police, guards, tourism officers, etc. available to direct and help you.

DO check the newspapers daily for the things to do that day.

DO follow your instincts. If it feels right, do it. If it feels wrong, don’t do it.

DO bring (and wear) a shady hat (baseball caps will work) and sunglasses. The sun can be BRIGHT!

DO use common sense, and enjoy yourself.
 
 

TRANSPORTATION

Public transportation is handled by private taxis, which run along fixed routes, like buses. These taxis can be recognized by the ‘H’ prefix on the licence plates, (i.e. HAR 1234)
 

The DON’Ts are self-evident:

DON’T flash large sums of cash.

DON’T wear lots of expensive jewelry.

DON’T walk in dark areas alone. Use the lit walkways.

DON’T be led into any strange situation by any sweet-talking tout.

DON’T eat / drink anything you’re not accustomed to. Local food is rich and takes a little getting used to.
 
 

To protect and serve, that’s what they are there for. But with a little help from us they can be so much more effective. So here are a few tips – courtesy the Police Service – to help us enjoy a safe carnival.

WHEN DRIVING TO FETES AND OTHER ACTIVITIES YOU SHOULD:

• Use paid car parks whenever possible.
• Ensure that your vehicles are properly secured.
• Not overcrowd vehicles.
• Not drink and drive.
• Lock car doors when vehicles are in motion.
• Notify the police whenever you observe any strange activity around vehicles.
• Obey traffic signs re: parking.
• Not leave vehicles unattended with keys in the ignition.
• Not leave vehicle unattended with engine running.
• Not leave valuable items exposed in vehicle.
• Be cautious of persons loitering near traffic lights.
• Have your keys in hand when approaching vehicle.
• Be vigilant at all times when returning home, especially at night and if you are travelling alone.

REMEMBER IT IS AN OFFENCE TO:
 

• Go through a red light even at nights.
• Travel in open trays of pick up vans and trucks.
• Jaywalk

PARENTS AND GUARDIANS, YOUR CHILDREN SHOULD:
 

• All wear identification cards bearing their name, name of parent / guardian, address and telephone number.
• Not be left unsupervised at home.
• Not use public conveniences unless an adult accompanies them.
• Not accept food or drink from strangers.
• Not be taken to fetes, calypso tents and other adult shows.

WHEN ATTENDING PARTIES AND OTHER ACTIVITIES YOU ARE REMINDED THAT YOU SHOULD:
 

• Wear minimal jewelry.
• Travel in groups to and from activities.
• Not carry around or display large amounts of money.
• Not accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
• Pre-arrange transport arrangements and designate an alcohol-free driver.

WHEN LEAVING YOUR HOUSEHOLDS YOU SHOULD:
 

• Secure all ladders and other implements in a locked room.
• Not leave lights on during the day.
• Not leave keys in mailboxes or under mats.
• Notify the police if you are going to be away for long periods.
• Have a friend or relative check the household to remove newspapers, milk and other deliveries.
• Ensure that property is illuminated at night.