WHATS ON THE MENU

The Island benefits from a fusion of foods because our culture is so diverse. From authentic Italian restaurants, authentic northern and southern Indian cuisine, Chinese & French influenced foods, good ole American dining and our very own local cuisines and fusion foods, dining and meals in Trinidad and Tobago is nothing short of a treat.

Home cooked meals can be whipped up from common and well-known brands found at our local grocery chains. Also available are membership based wholesale club type shopping options where you are able to find bulk type supermarket finds.

Want to cook like a local? Online food guides, local cook books and social media groups can serve to be your personal mentors that can guide you step by step in the kitchen. You would be cooking like a Trinbagonian in no time.

Here are a few of our favourite food resources locally in Trinidad and Tobago:

http://www.gotrinidadandtobago.com/trinidad/dining/

http://trinichow.com/

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Often referred to as the land of the hummingbirds, Trinidad and Tobago has a wide range of outdoor recreational facilities suitable for all ages. Geologically different from Trinidad, Tobago, the smaller of the two islands is of volcanic origin and part of the Caribbean islands, while Trinidad was part of the South American continent. This contrast of geography presents a wealth of outdoor exploration opportunities and sports activities. From kayaking, zip lining, bird watching, bicycling, hashing, fishing, rock climbing, snorkeling and surfing, both islands offer a unique experience for all who seek it.

For information on Natural Attractions, Beaches, Other Places of Interest or a Summary of Activities at the popular vacation areas, you can explore the following links:

http://www.trinoutdoors.com/pages/places.htm

http://www.tntadventures.com/

http://www.tdc.co.tt/?made.in.tt

RE-SHIPPERS AND SKYBOXES

So you have arrived in Trinidad, and been living in country for a while. You may find certain items hard to come by and not readily available in stores. For the person with this specific need it is quite common practice among locals to have a sky box or re-shipper, an agency that provides you with a US address or PO Box, and that delivers these items directly to your door on the island.

How does it work?

Once you sign up with a provider, you are provided with a mailbox number including a personal Miami address for use when shopping online, via catalog or telephone at your U.S. store of your choice, or when receiving certain documents. All packages and documents that arrive at your address in Miami are then shipped to Trinidad, cleared through customs (customs and delivery charges may occur) and delivered to your door step or designated location.

I have included some of the more popular providers on the island below:

·         Red Express - http://redxpresstt.com/

·         WebSource - http://shipwebsource.com/

·         Aeropost - http://www.aeropost.com/web/frontend/principal?lang=_eng&country=pos

IMMIGRATION DEEP DIVE

Once your work permit has been approved and you arrive in Trinidad, there are some additional steps that you will need to complete to close out the immigration process.

•      Visa Waiver 

–     Once an assignee is issued a TT Work Permit and entering the country without a TT VISA, they must apply for a VISA waiver for themselves and each family member.

–     The VISA Waiver Form is completed and submitted to the immigration officials at the airport along with a fee of TT$400 / US$67 for each family member.

•      Immigration Medical

–    Required by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. Therefore all persons are required to complete a medical examination once the duration of the work permit is more than one (1) year.

–    Make appointment with company or personal doctor.

–    Immigration medical forms must be completed by the doctor and submitted with your completed VISA application form.

Here is the link to the immigration medical forms: http://sta.uwi.edu/media/documents/2012/HR%20Immigration%20Medical%20Form.pdf

•      Extension of Landing Certificate and VISA Application

–      Extension of Landing Certificate is required by all

–      TT VISA is required by all except for UK and Canadian citizens

–      Documents required for TT Visa:

•      Passports

•      Copy of Work Permit

•      Immigration Medical Report – including x-ray report

•      Visa Application Form (required by all persons except UK and Canadian citizens)

–      Fees – Extension of Landing Certificate –TT$100 per person: Visa Application Fee - $400 per person.

The application for your extension of landing certificate will need to be done in person at the immigration offices:

Immigration Division
Permanent Residence and Citizenship and Extensions (Variations)
Student Permit, Visas, Certificate of Immigration Services
Moonan Building
#116 Frederick Street
Port of Spain
Trinidad
Tel: 625-9261
Fax: 627-9735

STUDENT PERMITS

If you are moving to Trinidad and Tobago with your kids and plan to enroll them in school, you will need to apply for a student permit for each child. The Immigration Division does not issue Student Permits to students prior to their arrival in Trinidad and Tobago. This application will need to be done after your arrival in country, once they have successfully been accepted and enrolled into their school of choice. The list below includes the relevant documents required for submission to Immigration:

·         Student Permit Application Forms 

·         Letter and Receipt from the School (the schools are familiar with the letter required)

·         Passport of applicant (student) and assignee

·         Applicant’s TT Visa

·         Copy of Work Permit

·         Fees – TT$200

Additional information can be obtained from the Ministry’s website using this link: http://www.immigration.gov.tt/Services/Permits/StudentPermit.aspx

There are various agencies in Trinidad that can assist with applying for a student permit. I have included the info for you as well:

·         Aegis Business Solutions http://www.aegistt.com/

·         LARM http://www.larmgroup.com/trinidadytobago.html

LANGUAGE & CULTURAL TRAINING

When moving to any new country it is important to consider differences in both language and culture. Seeking some form of intercultural training, prior to your move can serve as important tool in helping both you and your family assimilate. An Intercultural briefing will assist you to:

−      Understand the role of culture in business and social relationships

−      Learn vital information about Trinidad.

−      Develop the skills for successful adaptation to life and work in Trinidad

−      Look at opportunities and Challenges for the Spouse/Partner/Children

Here are some useful links:

trinidad@larmgroup.com

http://www.cartus.com/en/

http://www.soleilintercultural.com

http://www.canadawise.com/page/intercultural-training/

TRINIDAD BANKING

If you are in the country on a long term basis you may need to open a $TTD bank account to facilitate currency conversion or bank wires. The following is a list of the requirements to open a local bank account:-

·         Two forms of Identification for Assignee and spouse (if applicable)

·         A banker's reference letter from your home bank 

·         Credit score from the country of residence

·         Proof of address from your present home location (overseas) e.g. A utility bill

·         Job letter from TT employeer

·         Copy of your work permit

Click here http://www.tntisland.com/ttbanks.html for a listing of Trinidad and Tobago Banks by location.

MOTOR VEHICLES

If you are coming to Trinidad on Assignment, some companies offer vehicles to employees. This most likely will be some form of leased vehicle or company rental where maintenance and insurance are included. If you are making the move independently you may want to look at all the options to suit your style and budget. Trinidad has a diverse offering of both new car dealerships and flourishing foreign used market.

The major dealerships cover the top brands, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Toyota, Porsche, Honda, Kia etc. I have included the links below for easy reference. If your pocket is a bit more budget conscious, you may want to take a look at some foreign used options, which offer similar brans with low mileage, for a much cheaper price. Alternatively you can search for used vehicles in the local paper, but this can be risky. Using an approved dealer or verified used site like www.trinicarsforsale.com will save you the unwanted hassle.

Foreign Used Dealers: 

·         Japan Motors: http://www.japanmotorstt.com/

·         D&D Auto: http://dndautoworld.net/v2/

New car Dealers:

·         http://lifestylemotors.com/

·         http://www.massymotors.com/

·         http://www.bmw.tt/tt/en/

·         http://www.classicmotorstt.net/ku/autos

DRIVING IN TRINIDAD

To drive in Trinidad and Tobago you need a valid international driver's permit or one issued in the United States of America, UK, Bahamas, Canada, France or Germany. You are permitted to drive on your valid home country driving license for 90 days from the first date of entry, after which you will need to secure a local TT license. The country has a network of both multi-lane highways, and secondary access roads in addition to rural routes. Traffic moves on the left side. Fuel is subsidised by the government, and is relatively cheap.

Useful Tips:

·         If your Drivers Permit is not in English, please secure a certified translation prior to your arrival to Trinidad. This will ensure that you will just have to do the written exam. If not you will need to complete the entire process, road test included.

·         Speed Limit: Built up areas - 55 km and Highways - 80 km

·         Seatbelts are required for drivers and front seat passengers.

Click the link below for direct access to the Highway Code and for exam preparation to take the regulations test.

http://www.ttregs.com/

HEALTH CARE

On the Island, both private health care facilities and public health care facilities are available. While heath care at the private facilities can be a bit pricey, public health care is free and is provided on a walk in basis. If you are receiving current medical care you have the option of returning to your home country, or seeking care at the nearest point of medical excellence in Miami which is just a 4 hour plane ride away. Private medical facilities are better than the public clinics and hospitals. If you have existing international coverage from a medical provider such as Cigna, this is accepted at the private hospitals. I have included the links below to some private institutions:

West Shore Private Hospital: http://westshoreprivatehospital.com/home.html

St Clair Medical: http://medcorpltd.com/web2/

St Augustine Medical Hospital: http://www.saphtt.com/services.aspx

If you are interested in getting local personal medical insurance here are some options:

Pan American Insurance: http://www.palig.com/caribbean/trinidad-and-tobago

Guardian General Insurance: http://trinidad.myguardiangroup.com/guardian-general-insurance/

Beacon Insurance: http://www.beacon.co.tt/

HOUSING

Trinidad has a thriving real estate market, with quite a number of options for both rentals and purchasing. If you are using a Destination Services Agent, they can be extremely helpful in not only finding a property for you, but also in negating with the landlord on your behalf. Rentals are common throughout the island, but most expat communities are located in the western areas of the country. Utilities are usually the responsibility of the tenant, but most leases come with the water rates included. Westmoorings, Maraval, Cascade, St. Anns, and Glencoe are some of the popular areas and are centrally located just minutes from the capital. I have included some links to some well-known real estate websites that offer a variety of property options:

http://www.tuckerrealestate.com/

http://www.terracaribbean.com/trinidad

http://www.ecsrealestate.com/

SECURITY & PERSONAL SAFETY

As in most major cities around the world, there are high levels of violent crime especially in parts of the capital Port of Spain. Robbery and other crimes targeting tourists have occurred but the immediate environs experiences a higher crime rate than any other part of Trinidad. You should take the right precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight and being vigilant in crowded places.

Here are a few useful tips:

• Do not frequent isolated areas after dark and follow local advice about areas to be visited.
• Ask for directions to your destination before leaving your home or hotel.
•  Follow directional signs on the roads and at attractions, and only use official tour guides.
• Do not carry excess cash or valuables. Use Safety deposit boxes where provided.
• Be aware of your surroundings; new surroundings call for alertness no matter where you are.

If you observe anything suspicious or anything For Emergencies situation, call: 

- Police: 999

- Fire and Ambulance: 990

- Reporting Crime: 555

- Ambulance: 811

- T&T Coast Guard: 634-4440

- The Office Of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM): 640-1285

TAXATION

If you have been issued a work permit to be able to work in Trinidad and Tobago, you will be liable for paying taxes to the government for income earned while in country. This is facilitated by the local authorities through the Board of Inland Revenue. For most persons coming into the country on International Assignment, this is usually handled by the local employing entity on the assignee's behalf. Trinidad does have some double tax treaties in place with certain countries like the UK, and if your taxes aren't being remitted on your behalf and you are tasked with having to do this yourself, there are a number of local agencies that can assist.

·         Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) - http://www.pwc.com/tt/en/

·         Deliotte Trinidad and Tobago - http://www.deloitte.com/view/en_TT/tt/index.htm

For additional reading here are some links to some useful websites:

http://finance.gov.tt/services/income-tax/paying-your-taxes/

http://www.ird.gov.tt/

                                    

PETS

Fido and Whiskers!!

To a lot of people, pets are family and an important part of move. There are regulations regarding pets in Trinidad and Tobago as all animals and animal products entering the country must do so under the conditions of an import permit, which must be applied for prior to arrival. Persons should be aware that it might take several months for pets to qualify for entry into Trinidad and Tobago. 

There are three categories of entry for dogs and cats into Trinidad and Tobago.

·         Direct entry without quarantine.

·         Entry with 6 months quarantine.

·         Entry with at least 1 month quarantine.

Dogs and cats from the following countries can obtain direct entry into Trinidad and Tobago without having to go into quarantine or to have rabies vaccination or serum antibody testing: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Barbados, Belgium, Dominica Great Britain (United Kingdom), Jamaica, Luxemburg, Malta, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Singapore, St. Kitts/Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and Sweden. I have included a few links to some websites that have further details on the process:

http://www.pettravel.com/immigration/Trinidad_Tobago.cfm

http://www.ttcgnewyork.com/regulationsregardingpets.html

If you are looking for a doggie hotel you can contact the TTSPCA and the vet or the
Northwest Vet on Mucarapo 1-868-622-3356.

SCHOOLS

Back to School!!

Trinidad and Tobago is considered one of the most educated countries in the World with a literacy rate of over 98%. The education system on the island mirrors the British education system and it is quite common for children to start Pre-School by the age of three. If you are moving with your children doing your research and planning ahead will minimize the disruption that can be created by an International Assignment and ensure that you maintain continuity of their Home Country education system. I have included listings of local schools from day-care all the way to high school. Starting this process prior to the move is essential as some school require enrollment months in advance. 

Tips to help children to cope with a move -  http://www.expatarrivals.com/article/tips-to-help-children-cope-with-moving-to-another-country

SCHOOLS	ADDRESS	CONTACT NUMBERS	EMAIL ADDRESS	CONTACT PERSON
International School of Port-of-Spain	#1 International Drive, Westmoorings	Tel: 1-868-633-4777, 1-868-632-4591-2 Fax: 1-868-632-4595	admissions@isps.edu.tt or jfungkeefung@isps.edu.tt http://www.isps.edu.tt/aboutus/shorthistory.htm	Jackie Fung Kee Fung Director of Admissions
Maple Leaf International School	Alyce Heights, Alyce Glen, Petit Valley	Tel: 1-868-632-9578 Fax: 1-868-633-3068	mlis@tstt.net.tt http://www.mapleleaf-school.com/	Janet Pomeroy Principal
St. Andrew’s School	# 16 Valleton Avenue, Maraval	Tel: 1-868-622-2630 Fax: 1-868-628-1857	standrewsschool@tstt.net.tt	Sandra Farinha Principal.
British Academy of Port-of-Spain		622-4285	http://britishacademy.edu.tt/ admin@britishacademy.edu.tt	Mrs. Mc Kenzie
Arbor Montessori	8 Hayes Street, St Clair	628-7944	arbor08@gmail.com http://www.arbortrinidad.com/	Mrs. Pounder
The Montessori Academy of Trinidad and Tobago	66 Long Circular Road, Maraval	622-1166/ 628-8175 or 335-5679		Mrs. Rahael
The London Early Learning Montessori Pre-School	n/a	627-1170	n/a	Mrs. Xavier
Happy Days	n/a	620-8219	n/a	Mrs. Bynoe
VALSCO Montessori	n/a	637-3024	n/a	Mrs. Thompson
Hands on Fun	n/a	312-3065	n/a	Michelle Govia