The delightful climate, warm beaches and blue waters draw tourists to Trinidad and Tobago, with Castara Bay and Englishman’s Bay among the idyllic relaxation spots.
Over 30,000 British nationals visit Trinidad and Tobago every year, which is only accessible from the United Kingdom by airplane.
Getting to Trinidad
Flying from the UK will require an exceptionally long travel time, with the journey from Birmingham to Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago’s capital, taking 21 hours, on average.
You should discuss a plan to best manage your diabetes prior to departure with a member of your diabetes team.
Time difference
Trinidad and Tobago is three hours behind British Summer Time and four hours behind Greenwich Mean time, which should only cause minimal disruption to your diabetes management.
If you are uncertain about managing your diabetes in Trinidad and Tobago you should discuss this with your diabetes specialist
Climate and taking care
The climate of Trinidad and Tobago is consistently around 25°C all-year round, which will require vigilant checking of blood sugar levels for insulin takers as warmer temperatures can result in enhanced insulin absorption.
Currency
The currency used in Trinidad and Tobago is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar. Not all ATMs accept all types of cards, it would therefore be advised to either arrive with money or secure an exchange as soon as you land.
Vaccinations
There are no mandatory vaccinations to enter Trinidad and Tobago, however some are recommended. You should consult your doctor eight weeks prior to your departure in order to receive the vaccinations in time.
All travellers are recommended to get vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, which can both be contracted through contaminated food or water.
Some travellers are also recommended to receive vaccinations for other diseases, including hepatitis B and rabies, which can be carried by bats in Trinidad and Tobago.
Yellow fever is a risk in certain sections of Trinidad and Tobago, so vaccination is advised for travellers over nine months of age. The government of Trinidad and Tobago also requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you have travelled from a country with a risk of the disease.
Access to medication
UK citizens with diabetes will not be entitled to any free medication services while in Trinidad and Tobago. Securing comprehensive medical insurance will be essential in order to obtain even basic treatment
You will able to obtain treatment at both public institutions (where charges are minimal) and private institutions (where treatment is more costly).
Some brands of blood and urine testing equipment are available at all times. The Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago monitors availability and costs since occasionally there may be shortages of specific brands.
The emergency services telephone number to be called in Trinidad and Tobago is 990
Diabetes associations
It is important to note the diabetes associations in the country you are travelling to in case of an emergency.
There is one diabetic association in Trinidad and Tobago, the address is:
- Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago
10-12 Success Street,
500235 Chaguanas,
Trinidad and Tobago
Tel: +1-868-6553704
Email: [email protected]
Questions
- How is blood glucose measured in Trinidad and Tobago? Unfortunately, we do not have the information of whether blood glucose is measured in mg/dl or mmol/l in Trinidad and Tobago
- What language is spoken in Trinidad and Tobago? English
- Will I need an international driving license when driving in Trinidad and Tobago? No. A British license is valid for up to 30 days
- If I want to hire a vehicle during my visit, will I face any form of discrimination? No
- What sugar free drinks are available in Trinidad and Tobago? A variety of commercial diet drinks
