Driving in Trinidad and Tobago as an American can be an exciting and at times, nerve-wracking experience. The roads are generally pretty good, but there are some potholes that require a bit of caution when driving. One of the unique features of driving in Trinidad and Tobago is the roundabouts. These circular intersections can be a bit confusing for first-time drivers, but they are actually quite simple once you get the hang of them. The general rule is to give way to the vehicles already in the roundabout, and then enter when it's clear.
Left-hand side driving
People in Trinidad and Tobago drive on the left-hand side of the road. This means that the driver's seat is on the right-hand side of the car, and the passenger seat is on the left-hand side. If you're not used to driving on the left-hand side, it can take a bit of getting used to, but most visitors to Trinidad and Tobago adapt quickly. It's important to pay attention to the road markings and signs, especially when navigating roundabouts, as the flow of traffic is the opposite of what you may be used to if you are from a country where people drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Designated Bus Lanes
In Trinidad and Tobago, there are designated bus lanes, known as maxi taxi lanes, which are typically marked with a solid yellow line. However, it's not always easy to spot these lanes, so it's best to keep an eye out for signs and ask locals for directions. I found that having a navigator to point out where to go was very helpful, and I couldn't have navigated without someone also doing the directions and looking at a map.
Navigating potholes
There are some odd traffic patterns that are unique to Trinidad and Tobago, but they are generally intuitive. For example, when navigating around potholes, it's expected that you quickly get over and either slowly go over the pothole or try to get out of the way if possible. If a line of cars that you're in is going, you can continue in the line, and incoming traffic will typically wait for you to pass.
Etiquette of passing
One thing that struck me about driving in Trinidad and Tobago is how friendly and patient the drivers are. People are generally pretty chill about letting you in if you wait, so it's best to be patient and wait for an opening. If you're passing someone, usually giving one honk is sufficient to let the other driver know that you're passing.
In summary, driving in Trinidad and Tobago can be an exciting experience, but it does require some caution and patience. The roads are generally pretty good, but be prepared for some potholes and unique traffic patterns. Having a navigator to help with directions can be very helpful, and always be sure to keep an eye out for signs and road markings. Most importantly, remember to be patient and respectful of other drivers on the road.
If you're considering renting a car and driving in Trinidad and Tobago I highly recommend going for it! Its fun and a nice way to see the islands. The roads are quite modern and good for the most part!
