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[trinitrish]

Hello Travel Pod members!

I'm doing some research into what visitors to different countries look for or forward to and how their experiences can be enhanced!

Many of you may not have been to or heard of Trinidad and Tobago. Its the country I live in. It the most southerly Island in the Caribbean, closest to Venezuela.

Anyway, the truth about Trinidad and Tobago is that, we have never really developed our culture to be Tourist oriented as Tourism was never a main source of Economy. Truly blessed to have natural resources such as Oil and Gas, it was always the forerunner and emphasis on promoting the country as a unique tourist destination never took off.

But, lets face it. Economy's are failing, natural resources are running out and there is always the need to look at other options.

Trinidad and Tobago is not popular, because its not really known. Therefore so many of you have no clue as to what can be offered.

I can tell you right now, its a Caribbean Island like no other! There is so much Diversity in all aspects. Flora, Fauna, People, Culture, Food, Music, Lifestyles, Adventures. Besides having an amazing Carnival which I personally LOVE and which is the major tourist attraction, there is so much more!

However, I don't want to give it all away yet! I want to hear from you first about what you expect. The experiences you would like to have. How you envision people to treat you. I want to know every detail from the moment you get off that plane to when you say goodbye.

Would it be good if there were people at the airport to give you advice about transportation, places to visit.
Perhaps a Helpful Cab driver.
How about instead of staying at a hotel, the opportunity to stay with a local family who would ensure you are looked after and have a true cultural experience.
What about instead of always going to all the popular tourist spots but experience true down to earth caribbean living by being and seeing how people live and recreate.
What about if you adventurous and want to do it on your own? Would you like the best directions, maps that show you where to go?

I know all these things seems funny because it is expected that when you visit somewhere that the norm. Well it really isn't and thats why I need you to help me turn it around so that it can become that way. Your voice, opinions, feedback can develop what is so needed.

I would appreciate it so much if you can share your ideas, inputs about what you would like or even what you may have encountered else where that made you happy. That made your trip even better! All this information would be reviewed and passed on to the relevant authorities to make Trinidad and Tobago a place you will want to visit!

I so look forward to all your responses. Remember, all input is important!

Cheers!

Trinitrish!

[rossport]

G'day Trish

What a good idea about that people expect want need in a tourist destination, I my self have only recently started the travel caper, but i do know what i like and dislike about some place's especially at arrivals at the airport and that is the touting of transport. You are hassled no end and they rely on the fact that you have traveled a long distance and are still a tad groggy from the trip so are not fully aware so i think a proper transport tourist information desk should be a must.

Accommodation is also something that needs to be looked at like all places you have quality at price and backpackers so that would need to be addressed and local families using the B&B set up would be great that way you can taste the local cuisine, and they could also act as local tourist information centres letting their clients know of the different aspects of the aras to go and visit.

Tourist operators are a need as well people like myself like to have local people take me around so i can see the areas that need to and also i like some independent travel in to local markets etc so a good tourist information centre would be great. I hope this has given you some starters Trish

Hoo roo Stewart

[trinitrish]

G'day Trish

What a good idea about that people expect want need in a tourist destination, I my self have only recently started the travel caper, but i do know what i like and dislike about some place's especially at arrivals at the airport and that is the touting of transport. You are hassled no end and they rely on the fact that you have traveled a long distance and are still a tad groggy from the trip so are not fully aware so i think a proper transport tourist information desk should be a must.

Accommodation is also something that needs to be looked at like all places you have quality at price and backpackers so that would need to be addressed and local families using the B&B set up would be great that way you can taste the local cuisine, and they could also act as local tourist information centres letting their clients know of the different aspects of the aras to go and visit.

Tourist operators are a need as well people like myself like to have local people take me around so i can see the areas that need to and also i like some independent travel in to local markets etc so a good tourist information centre would be great. I hope this has given you some starters Trish

Hoo roo Stewart

Hi Stewart

Thank you much for Ideas and suggestion! Sounds good and I totally understand what you mean by having a local take you around!

I wish more people would also put in their TWO CENTS so to speak! It really is for a good cause! LOL.

Anyway.. planning to go to Costa Rica so i am doing some research and hope to report back!