The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is an island nation located at the southernmost tip of the Caribbean, where the Caribbean Sea meets the North Atlantic Ocean, just northeast of South America.
In this article, we’ll cover 10 Trinidad and Tobago facts that will make you pack your trunks and head to Trinidad’s Grande Riviere Beach.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Bacolet Bay Beach gained fame as a filming location for the 1960 Disney movie Swiss Family Robinson. Its scenery is rumored to have inspired Treasure Island, but there is little evidence to support that claim.
Trinidad was named by Christopher Columbus in 1498 after the Holy Trinity. Tobago’s name origins are less clear, but likely originate from the Carib word tavaco, referring to tobacco use by the indigenous peoples.
Pitch Lake is the world’s largest natural deposit of asphalt. This natural wonder located in La Brea, Trinidad has been a vital resource for centuries, supplying asphalt for roads and infrastructure projects worldwide.
Visitors can walk on its semi-solid surface and marvel at its landscape. The sulfur-rich waters are believed by locals to have healing properties.
La Brea Pitch Lake, La Brea, Siparia, Trinidad and Tobago.
In 1977, Trinidad’s Janelle Penny Commissiong became the first Black woman to be crowned Miss Universe. Her victory shattered racial barriers.
Commissiong’s achievements are immortalized in three postage stamps produced by the Trinidad and Tobago Postal Service. Here are 2 of the 3 stamps.
The limbo dance originated in Trinidad and Tobago. This cultural tradition involves passing under a progressively lowered bar without touching it, showcasing skill and flexibility.
The limbo is now a popular party activity worldwide. You probably did it in middle school. It came from Trinidad and Tobago.
The steel pan drum was invented in Trinidad during the 20th century and is the only new acoustic instrument developed in this era. Made from repurposed oil drums, it is a central feature of Carnival celebrations.
The steel pan is the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago.
Video of the Panorama Finals 2024 – Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
The world’s largest brain coral is located at Kelleston Drain, a popular dive site with marine life near Little Tobago. Brain corals are named for their grooved surface, resembling a human brain.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival is ranked as one of the top ten Carnival celebrations in the world. The event features bright costumes and parades, earning the name “The Greatest Show on Earth.”
Trinidad and Tobago’s culture stems from the combination of peoples of African descent with East Indian influences through colonization, slavery and migration.Roti, doubles, pelau and pastelles are popular fusion foods.
| Ethnic Group | Percent |
|---|---|
| Indo-Trinidadians | ~35-37% |
| Afro-Trinidadians | ~34-36% |
| Mixed (Dougla) | ~20% |
| European | ~0.6% |
| Chinese | ~0.3% |
| Syrian and Lebanese | ~0.1% |
| Indigenous (First Peoples) | Trace |
Prime Minister, Dr the Honorable Keith Rowley
Trinidad and Tobago’s economy is among the strongest in the Caribbean, driven by its vast reserves of oil and natural gas. The strong industrial base sets it apart from many other English-speaking Caribbean nations.
The energy sector accounts for about 45% of GDP, 80% of exports, and supports industries like ammonia and methanol production. Port of Spain and San Fernando are the economic hubs, with the country being the largest producer of natural gas in CARICOM and the second-largest oil producer in the region.
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I’m Yuri Kim, a marketing professional with a strong foundation in digital strategy and campaign management. I have a passion for developing innovative marketing initiatives that drive growth and customer engagement. With experience in optimizing digital channels and a keen focus on analytics, I excel at transforming data insights into actionable strategies. My goal is to create impactful marketing campaigns that deliver results and foster brand loyalty.
