Trinidad and Tobago Taxis and Car Rental
Most of Trinidad and Tobago’s main settlements have taxi and rental car services. There are many independent operations, both official and illegitimate, so it is a good idea to check on the provider and agree on a fare before you set off. Licensed taxis look the same as normal cars, except they have a license plate that begins with an ‘H’. To catch a taxi, pick one up at a stand or hail one off the street. Keep small cash handy in local currency as getting change or a decent exchange rate is not guaranteed. Phone-a-Taxi (+1-868-628-8294) or St Anthony’s Taxi Cab Cooperative (+1-868-648-3941) are two of the better respected firms.
While car rental is not as popular as cabs with visitors, it can be cheaper and more convenient. Thrifty and Budget are the only two international chains servicing the islands, while several local operators offer rental cars too. Rental cars usually have a license plate that starts with ‘R’ although ‘P’ is sometimes an alternative. Drivers need to be over 25 years of age and should be aware that some areas are not safe for tourists and are to be avoided.
Trinidad and Tobago Buses
The Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) provides Trinidad and Tobago with a fairly extensive bus network with both rural and city routes. The deluxe service vehicles are the most comfortable, but all buses generally offer a safe, cheap and easy way to get around the islands.
Maxis (minivans or maxi taxis) are another alternative to buses, which follow a set route and have their own stands. Maxis are white or beige with a colored stripe to indicate the destination. Maxis can also be chartered for a whole day excursion.
Trinidad and Tobago Water Taxis
The Water Taxi Service of Trinidad and Tobago is a state-run operation that ferries passengers between cities, as well as between the two islands. The inter-island route runs between Port-of-Spain on Trinidad and San Fernando on Tobago. Tickets can be booked up to a week in advance and seating is on a first come, first served basis.