Trinidad and Tobago Getting Around

Getting Around

There are four types of public transportation in Trinidad and Tobago - buses , maxi taxis , route taxis and private taxis - which can be, at first glance, difficult or confusing to use. A mix of all four can get you almost anywhere on the islands, apart from some remote rural areas (or even late night trips), for which renting a car is the only alternative. The first three are relatively cheap but not always the fastest option. For travelling between the islands you can opt for the ferry , which is slow (the trip takes around 5 and a half hours) but very economical, or the plane , quicker (less than 30 minutes) and more comfortable though a bit more expensive. There are regular taxis with a license plate beginning with "H" and "MaxiTaxis" (usually a large passenger van) that go along a specified route. Buses are only used for longer distance travel and not within a city or metro area. Unofficial taxis also exist, but you'll have to ask the locals about them. Car rental is widely available, and driving is on the left side (British style). If planning to go to the other side of the island, get an early start and allow the entire day with nothing important scheduled for the late afternoon. Although the island is not huge, getting somewhere can take longer than you might think. Beware of drivers who do not follow the laws of the road. They may not stop a red lights, and make unannounced turns whenever, wherever! Drinking alcohol is permitted while driving. If you're only accustomed to right-side driving (US/ Canada/ Cont. Europe) strongly consider not driving at all.