Following the declaration of a state of emergency by the authorities in Trinidad and Tobago on December 30th, 2024, the Canadian government issued a travel advisory to those hoping to travel to the Caribbean country, which includes Caribbean cruise passengers on itineraries that have a port of call on the twin-island nation off the coast of Venezuela.
The Government of Canada website currently advises a high degree of caution for visitors to Trinidad and Tobago, with regional advisories stating all non-essential travel to the areas of Beetham Estate Gardens, Cocorite (north of Western Main Road), Downtown Port of Spain (east of Charlotte Street, south and west of Picadilly Street, and north of Independence Square), Laventille, and Sea Lots be avoided.
The state of emergency declaration was issued in response to elevated violence and gang activity. Under the declaration, security forces have the right to conduct searches of persons and property and to arrest and detain persons of interest without a warrant. People in the country can expect to see an increased police/military presence.
Travelers should be aware that they need to carry their ID with them and show it to authorities when asked. They should also be aware that elevated threat levels and travel advisories might affect their travel insurance coverage. For emergency consular assistance, Canadians can call the High Commission in Port of Spain and follow the instructions, or request help through the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
