Wow your friends with these 5 unique gifts from Trinidad & Tobago.

5 Unique gifts from Trinidad and Tobago that will wow your friends back in NYC

When returning from an unforgettable trip to Trinidad and Tobago, you’ll want to bring a piece of the islands back with you. But why settle for ordinary souvenirs when you can wow your friends in NYC with gifts from Trinidad and Tobago that capture the essence of this vibrant Caribbean paradise? From handcrafted items to culinary treasures, these five unique gifts will leave a lasting impression.

Wow your friends in NYC with these 5 gifts from Trinidad and Tobago

1. Handmade leather goods from the craft market

Trinidad and Tobago is home to talented artisans who specialise in creating beautiful, high-quality leather goods. These handcrafted items—belts, wallets, purses, and sandals—combine practicality with the island’s artistic flair.

The intricately designed leather pieces often feature traditional patterns, reflecting the diverse culture and history of the islands. Not only do these make stylish gifts, but they also offer a unique alternative to mass-produced fashion accessories that your friends in NYC won’t find anywhere else.

Where to buy: Visit the weekend craft markets in places like Queen’s Park Savannah in Port-of-Spain, or browse local vendors at the various festivals held throughout the year.

Why it’ll wow: Artisanal leather goods are timeless and practical, offering a blend of Caribbean craftsmanship with a modern twist. Your friends will appreciate the uniqueness and durability of these items, which are far superior to standard department store accessories in NYC.

Neil Audain, leather sandals, belts, poya, bags, Arima vendor. Photo: Omilla Mungroo. These are great gifts from Trinidad and Tobago. — *Neil Audain, Arima vendor, displays his leather sandals, belts, poya and bags.* Photo: Omilla Mungroo.

2. Trinidad and Tobago rum

For the friend who loves a good cocktail, gifting a premium bottle of Trinidad and Tobago rum is an easy win. Known for its rich flavours and smooth finish, rum from the islands is world-renowned. Distilleries like Angostura offer a range of selections, from aged rums to limited-edition blends, each with its own distinctive flavour profile.

Whether it’s used to mix up a signature cocktail or savoured neat, a bottle of Trinidadian rum is sure to be a conversation starter at your next NYC gathering. Pair it with a cocktail recipe card for a more personal touch.

CARONI TRINIDAD 25 ANS 1996 ROOPNARINE TOOLSIE EMPLOYEES 5TH REL. ONE OF 741 BOTTLES, 2021 EDITION

66,1%, Rhum, Trinidad & Tobago / 70cL

QUANTITY LIMITED TO 1 BOTTLE PER CUSTOMER

The Caroni Employees collection pays tribute to the former staff of Caroni, the legendary Caribbean distillery founded in 1918 and closed in 2002. The fifth version introduces three new Caroni protagonists. This version is named after Roonarine Roop Toolsie, who worked at the Caroni distillery for six years.

€2950.00/US$3213.29

Buy Now

Where to buy: Angostura’s distillery in Port-of-Spain is the perfect spot to pick up a premium bottle. You can also find it at duty-free shops at Piarco International Airport.

Why it’ll wow: Trinidadian rum boasts a legacy of excellence, and gifting a rare bottle provides your friends with something far superior to the typical spirits they’d find on the shelves in NYC.

*Candice Hughes-Bengochea displays her Exquisite Backyard Rum Punch.*

3. Locally made jewellery

For a more personal touch, consider locally crafted jewellery. Trinidad and Tobago’s artisans create stunning pieces inspired by the natural beauty of the islands.

Whether it’s necklaces made from precious stones like amethyst and agate, or hand-beaded earrings and bracelets, there’s something to suit every taste. The bright colours and organic shapes of the jewellery reflect the vibrant culture and landscape of Trinidad and Tobago.

Some jewellers incorporate indigenous designs, creating truly one-of-a-kind pieces. By gifting locally crafted jewellery, you not only give a beautiful present but also support local craftsmanship and sustainable practices.

Sweet TnT Short Stories

Life in Trinidad and Tobago comes alive in the exciting, entertaining, comical, dramatic, thrilling, mysterious and suspenseful tales in Sweet TnT Short Stories. The novella consists of 34 fictional pieces written by authors from around the twin islands who share narratives with you under the sections Lifestyle, Superstition and Fauna. Created by Culturama Publishing Company, producer of Sweet TnT Magazine from San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago, this book is one of the publications that commemorates the 10th anniversary of the publisher from 2009-2019.

Kindle edition US$4.99

Paperback edition US$9.99

Where to buy: Head to popular artisan markets such as The Green Market in Santa Cruz or shops in Tobago’s Crown Point. Some local jewellers also offer custom pieces, allowing you to give a truly unique gift.

Why it’ll wow: NYC has no shortage of trendy boutiques, but there’s nothing like wearing an island-inspired statement piece that can’t be found in Manhattan. Locally made jewellery adds a tropical vibe to any outfit, making it a special keepsake that your friends will treasure.

Handmade jewellery are great gifts from Trinidad and Tobago. — *Cherise Castle-Blugh, local jewellery designer,* *wears her creation.*

4. Spices and pepper sauces

If your friends love to cook or spice up their meals, nothing beats authentic Trinidad and Tobago spices. Famous for its flavourful dishes, the islands produce a range of spices and condiments that add a fiery kick to any meal. From hot pepper sauces to green seasoning blends, these locally sourced ingredients will turn a basic NYC kitchen into a culinary adventure.

Local brands like Matouk’s and Chief are known for their high-quality spices and sauces. Pair a few bottles with recipe suggestions for authentic Trini dishes like pelau or doubles for an even more thoughtful gift.

Where to buy: Local supermarkets and spice shops, or the vendor stalls at the public markets like Port-of-Spain’s Central Market, carry a wide selection of spices and sauces. Be sure to also check out the craft markets for unique blends made by local producers.

Why it’ll wow: Hot sauce is a staple in many NYC homes, but Trinidad and Tobago’s pepper sauces offer a distinctive flavour unlike anything from the US. Adding Caribbean spices to their kitchen will give your friends a taste of the islands every day.

Homemade pepper sauce. Paw paw addition. Give cookbook as a gift from Trinidad and Tobago. — *See how to make this homemade pepper sauce in the cookbook Sweet TnT 100 West Indian Recipes on Amazon.*

5. Calypso and steelpan music

Give your friends the gift of rhythm with the sounds of Trinidad and Tobago. The birthplace of calypso and steelpan music, these islands have a rich musical heritage that’s bound to impress any music lover.

Gifting a collection of calypso records or a small steelpan set is a great way to share the soul of the islands with your friends. For something extra special, you can even find steelpan CDs featuring both traditional songs and modern renditions of popular hits.

A small steelpan set is also a unique way to bring the island experience to life and is sure to entertain your friends during gatherings back in NYC.

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Where to buy: Visit a local music store or check out vendors at festivals like Panorama, Trinidad’s annual steelpan competition. Music is a big part of island life, and you’re sure to find CDs and steelpan accessories at local music shops or from performers themselves.

Why it’ll wow: While NYC offers a vast range of musical options, the distinctive sounds of calypso and steelpan bring the Caribbean to life in a way no other genre can. Sharing the gift of music will let your friends experience the rhythm and joy of Trinidad and Tobago firsthand.

Trinidad and Tobago Carnival — *Birdsong Academy at Junior Panorama Finals, Queen’s Park Savannah in 2016.*

Final thoughts

From artisanal leather goods to the vibrant sounds of steelpan music, these unique gifts from Trinidad and Tobago are sure to stand out in a sea of typical souvenirs. Each item offers a taste of the islands and a connection to its rich culture, making them the perfect way to wow your friends back in NYC. When looking for the perfect gift, remember that it’s not just about the item—it’s about sharing a piece of the Caribbean that will leave a lasting impression.

For planning your next trip to Trinidad and Tobago or to explore more about these gift ideas, visit TripAdvisor for reviews and recommendations on where to find the best local treasures.

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