Why Trinidad & Tobago is the perfect long weekend getaway for busy New Yorkers

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Living in New York City can be exhilarating, but it’s also exhausting. The hustle and bustle of the Big Apple often leaves New Yorkers craving a break, even if it’s just for a long weekend. If you’re looking to escape the fast-paced city life for a few days, consider Trinidad & Tobago—two idyllic Caribbean islands offering the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture.

Here’s why Trinidad & Tobago should be your next long weekend destination!

1. Quick and convenient flights

One of the main reasons Trinidad & Tobago is ideal for New Yorkers is its proximity and ease of travel. Direct flights from JFK and Newark Liberty International airports get you to Trinidad’s Piarco International Airport in just under five hours.

With most flights departing in the morning or early afternoon, you can finish your workday in NYC and wake up the next morning on a beautiful island paradise. Additionally, many airlines offer affordable and competitive prices, so you won’t have to break the bank to take a quick getaway.

2. Two islands, two experiences

A long weekend is the perfect amount of time to explore both Trinidad and Tobago. The islands are connected by a 25-minute flight or a scenic ferry ride. In Trinidad, you’ll experience the vibrant urban culture, rich history, and natural wonders. Visit Port-of-Spain, explore the rainforest, and take a trip to the Caroni Swamp to see the scarlet ibis in flight.

Tobago, on the other hand, offers a more laid-back, tropical island experience. Think of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and untouched coral reefs. Spend a day relaxing at Pigeon Point or snorkelling at Buccoo Reef to witness the underwater beauty for which Tobago is famous.

3. Rich cultural heritage

Trinidad & Tobago offers a unique fusion of African, Indian, European, and indigenous cultures. Whether you visit during Carnival season (usually in February or March) or outside of it, you’ll experience lively music, dancing, and delicious food. Try doubles, a beloved street food made of curried chickpeas sandwiched between fried flatbread, or savour the flavours of roti filled with savoury curry meats.

If you time your visit right, you can witness Trinidad’s infamous steelpan performances, or indulge in the sweet sounds of soca music. The cultural diversity of the islands will leave you enriched and eager for more.

4. Nature and adventure

New Yorkers who love outdoor adventures will find plenty to do in Trinidad & Tobago. The islands are home to numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and beaches that offer breathtaking views and a chance to reconnect with nature. Some must-see spots include:

Maracas Beach

Just a short drive from Port-of-Spain, this iconic beach is a great place to relax, swim, or try the famous bake and shark sandwich.

Argyle Waterfall

Located in Tobago, this 175-foot waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforest and is perfect for an afternoon hike and swim.

Asa Wright Nature Centre

This haven for birdwatchers offers guided tours where you can see over 400 species of birds, making it a perfect activity for nature lovers.

For those seeking a little adrenaline, Tobago’s Nylon Pool is an offshore sandbar that allows visitors to stand in waist-deep water in the middle of the ocean—a truly surreal experience. You can also dive in some of the world’s top-rated spots in Speyside, Tobago, where manta rays, colourful corals, and tropical fish abound.

5. Warm weather year-round

One of the best things about Trinidad & Tobago is its tropical climate. While New York winters can be brutal, Trinidad & Tobago enjoys sunny skies and warm weather all year. Temperatures typically range from 75°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C), making it a perfect destination to soak up some sun no matter when you decide to visit. Imagine escaping the cold, grey winter for a weekend and trading your snow boots for flip-flops!

6. Affordability

While some Caribbean islands can be expensive, Trinidad & Tobago offers a range of accommodations, dining, and activity options to suit every budget. Whether you prefer staying in an all-inclusive resort or a boutique guesthouse, you’ll find options that allow you to enjoy the beauty of the islands without spending excessively. Street food, local markets, and affordable transportation also make it easy to stick to a budget while enjoying a rich, fulfilling experience.

7. No crowds, just serenity

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds that often plague popular Caribbean destinations like the Bahamas or Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago is the answer. While these islands are no secret to the seasoned traveller, they remain less commercialised and less crowded than their more famous neighbours. This allows you to enjoy the stunning beaches, serene landscapes, and authentic culture without competing for space with other tourists.

8. Easy entry requirements

For US citizens, visiting Trinidad & Tobago is hassle-free. You’ll just need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your stay. No visa is required for stays under 90 days, and the islands are well-equipped with modern infrastructure, making it easy to get around and enjoy your trip.

9. Exciting festivals year-round

Even if you can’t make it for the world-famous Carnival, Trinidad & Tobago offers numerous festivals throughout the year. From the Divali celebrations in Trinidad, featuring colourful lights and Indian cuisine, to Tobago’s Blue Food Festival celebrating locally grown dasheen, there’s always something exciting happening. These festivals provide a window into the islands’ multicultural fabric and are an excellent way to experience the local vibe.

10. A perfect balance of relaxation and adventure

What sets Trinidad & Tobago apart from other Caribbean destinations is its perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re unwinding on the beach in Tobago or hiking through the rainforest in Trinidad, there’s something for every type of traveller. You can spend your days lounging by the ocean and your nights exploring vibrant local nightlife or indulging in gourmet dinners at a waterfront restaurant.

How to plan the perfect long weekend in Trinidad & Tobago

If you’re dreaming of an idyllic long weekend escape to the Caribbean, look no further than the vibrant twin islands of Trinidad & Tobago. With stunning beaches, lush rainforests, rich culture, and warm weather year-round, these islands offer the perfect getaway for travellers looking to relax, explore, or indulge in local flavours.

To plan your perfect long weekend in Trinidad & Tobago, there’s one tool that can help you streamline your trip from start to finish: Tripadvisor.com. Whether you’re looking for the best flights, accommodations, car rentals, or things to do, Tripadvisor makes it easy to plan every aspect of your trip. Here’s a comprehensive guide to using Tripadvisor to create your perfect Trinidad & Tobago itinerary.

1. Start with flights: Find the best deals

Tripadvisor’s flight search engine allows you to compare prices across multiple airlines, ensuring that you find the best deal for your trip. Simply enter your departure city (such as New York’s JFK or Newark Liberty International) and your destination (Piarco International Airport in Trinidad or ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago), along with your travel dates. The search engine will provide a list of options that you can filter by price, flight duration, and airlines.

Once you’ve found your ideal flight, Tripadvisor will direct you to the booking platform of your choice. By checking Tripadvisor’s user reviews, you can also get a sense of which airlines offer the best in-flight service and comfort.

2. Choosing accommodations: Hotels, guest houses, bed & breakfasts

One of Tripadvisor’s strongest features is its extensive list of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guest houses. You can use Tripadvisor’s filters to search for the type of lodging that best suits your preferences and budget. For a long weekend getaway, here are some options to consider:

Hotels & resorts

If you’re looking for a hassle-free experience with all the amenities, check out the top-rated hotels in Trinidad & Tobago. Tripadvisor lists user reviews and star ratings so you can see which hotels provide the best service, cleanliness, and location. For example, a stay at the Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort in Tobago offers a luxurious beachfront experience, while the Hyatt Regency Trinidad offers comfort and convenience in the heart of Port-of-Spain.

Guest houses & bed and breakfasts

For a more intimate and local experience, consider staying in a guesthouse or bed and breakfast. Tripadvisor features hundreds of these options, complete with photos, user reviews, and price comparisons. Many guest houses, such as Mt Irvine Bay Resort in Tobago or L’Orchidée Boutique Hotel in Trinidad, offer a unique blend of personal hospitality and comfort.

3. Explore car rentals: Get around with ease

Trinidad & Tobago are best explored by car, especially if you want to venture beyond your hotel and explore the islands’ hidden gems. With Tripadvisor, you can compare and book car rentals from major providers such as Avis, Hertz, and Budget, all in one place.

Tripadvisor’s user reviews will also help you choose a reliable rental company and find the best deals. For your long weekend getaway, consider renting a car for the flexibility to explore the islands’ beaches, waterfalls, and towns at your own pace.

4. Book tours & excursions: Discover the best of Trinidad & Tobago

No trip to Trinidad & Tobago is complete without experiencing its rich culture, wildlife, and natural beauty. Tripadvisor offers an extensive selection of tours and activities that you can book in advance, with categories ranging from adventure to relaxation. Whether you’re interested in guided tours or independent adventures, you can filter the options to match your interests and time constraints. Here are a few highlights to consider:

Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool snorkelling tour (Tobago)

Explore one of the Caribbean’s best coral reefs and stand in the famous shallow waters of the Nylon Pool.

Caroni Bird Sanctuary tour (Trinidad)

Witness the majestic flight of Trinidad’s national bird, the scarlet ibis, in its natural mangrove habitat.

Asa Wright Nature Centre birdwatching (Trinidad)

For nature lovers, a visit to this world-renowned bird sanctuary is a must.

With Tripadvisor’s reviews, you can read real travellers’ experiences and get insights into the best times to visit, tour guides, and tips for making the most of your tour.

5. Dining options: Find the best restaurants

One of the joys of visiting Trinidad & Tobago is indulging in its diverse and flavourful cuisine. From street food to fine dining, Tripadvisor makes it easy to find the best places to eat. The platform allows you to filter restaurants by cuisine type, location, price range, and traveller ratings, so you can find everything from local favourites like doubles (a street food dish made of fried dough filled with curried chickpeas) to upscale waterfront dining.

Here are some must-try restaurants:

BUZO Osteria Italiana (Trinidad)

Known for its local cuisine and warm atmosphere, this Port-of-Spain restaurant is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

The Seahorse Inn (Tobago)

A perfect spot for a romantic dinner by the sea, serving a blend of international and Caribbean dishes with stunning views.

If you’re looking for something quick and local, Tripadvisor’s reviews will also lead you to the best street vendors and hidden gems where you can enjoy Trinidad & Tobago’s unique culinary offerings.

6. Weekend packages: Save time and money

Tripadvisor also offers curated weekend packages that bundle together flights, accommodations, and activities, allowing you to save time and money while planning your trip. These packages often include special deals on luxury hotels or all-inclusive resorts, making it easy to plan a hassle-free long weekend getaway.

Whether you want a relaxing beach weekend or an action-packed adventure, Tripadvisor’s packages provide various options for every kind of traveller. These curated packages come with user reviews and detailed itineraries, so you can be sure you’re getting the best experience possible.

7. Check traveller reviews: Make informed decisions

One of the most valuable features of Tripadvisor is its vast collection of user reviews. These reviews are from real travellers who share their personal experiences, ratings, and tips. Before you book anything—whether it’s a hotel, restaurant, or tour—you can read reviews to see if it meets your expectations. You’ll find detailed insights on everything from the cleanliness of a hotel room to the quality of a snorkelling excursion.

With traveller photos, you can get a genuine look at accommodations and activities before you arrive. Reviews also provide practical advice, such as the best times to visit a location, which areas to avoid, and what to pack.

8. Use the Tripadvisor app for on-the-go access

Tripadvisor’s mobile app is a game-changer for travellers. Once you’ve booked your trip, download the app to have all your bookings, reviews, and itineraries in one place. You can easily navigate through maps, check restaurant hours, read reviews on the go, and even get directions to your hotel or the nearest attraction.

The app also allows you to save and share your favourite spots, so you can quickly access your itinerary or make last-minute changes while travelling.

9. Plan your long weekend like a pro

With Tripadvisor, planning a long weekend in Trinidad & Tobago becomes a breeze. You can organise every aspect of your trip—from booking flights and car rentals to reserving the best accommodations, tours, and restaurants—all in one place. By leveraging the wealth of user reviews and the platform’s intuitive search filters, you can customise your itinerary to ensure your trip is exactly what you want it to be.

So, whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend soaking up the sun on Tobago’s pristine beaches or an adventurous exploration of Trinidad’s vibrant culture and lush landscapes, Tripadvisor gives you all the tools you need to plan the perfect getaway.

Start planning your long weekend now on Tripadvisor.com and experience the beauty and culture of Trinidad & Tobago with ease.

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