Trindade: A Hidden Gem in São Tomé and Príncipe

• HelloOlá
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdeus
  [ah-deh-oos]
• YesSim
  [seem]
• NoNão
  [naw]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vohr/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youObrigado
  [oh-bree-gah-doo]
• Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpa
  [kohm lee-sen-sah/deh-skool-pah]
• How are you?Como está?
  [koh-moh ehs-tah]
• Fine. And you?Bem. E você?
  [bane/eh voh-seh]
• Do you speak English?Fala inglês?
  [fah-lah een-glehsh]
• I don't understandNão entendo
  [naw ehn-tehn-doo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGostaria de ver o menu, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh vehr ooh meh-noo/por fah-vohr]
• I don't eat meatNão como carne
  [naw koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Saúde!
  [sah-oo-deh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGostaria de pagar, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh pah-gahr/por fah-vohr]

• Help!Socorro!
  [soh-koh-roh]
• Go away!Vai embora!
  [vah-ee ehm-boh-rah]
• Call the Police!Chamar a Polícia!
  [shah-mahr ah poh-lees-ee-ah]
• Call a doctor!Chamar um médico!
  [shah-mahr oom meh-dee-koo]
• I'm lostEstou perdido
  [eh-stoh pehr-dee-doo]
• I'm illEstou doente
  [eh-stoh doo-ehn-teh]

• I'd like to buy...Gostaria de comprar...
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingEstou só a ver
  [eh-stoh soh ah vehr]
• How much is it?Quanto custa?
  [kwan-toh koos-tah]
• That's too expensiveIsso é muito caro
  [ee-soh eh moo-ee-toh kahr-oo]
• Can you lower the price?Pode baixar o preço?
  [poh-deh bahy-shahr ooh preh-soo]

• What time is it?Que horas são?
  [keh oh-rahz sah-oo]
• It's one o'clockÉ uma hora
  [eh oo-mah oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Meia hora (10)
  [may-ah oh-rah (deez)]
• MorningManhã
  [mahn-yah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoite
  [noy-teh]
• YesterdayOntem
  [ohn-tehm]
• TodayHoje
  [oh-zheh]
• TomorrowAmanhã
  [ah-mahn-yah]
• 1Um
  [oom]
• 2Dois
  [doh-ees]
• 3Três
  [trehs]
• 4Quatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [saysh]
• 7Sete
  [seh-teh]
• 8Oito
  [oy-toh]
• 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
• 10Dez
  [dehz]

• Where's a/the...?Onde fica o/a...?
  [ohn-deh fee-kah ooh/ah]
• What's the address?Qual é o endereço?
  [kwahl eh ooh ehn-deh-reh-soh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pode me mostrar (no mapa)?
  [poh-deh meh moh-strahr/noh mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando é o próximo (autocarro)?
  [kwan-doo eh ooh proh-see-moh/ow-toh-kah-roo]
• A ticket (to ....)Um bilhete (para ....)
  [oom beel-yeh-teh/pah-rah]

Trindade, like the rest of São Tomé and Príncipe, was first discovered by Portuguese explorers in the late 15th century. The islands were uninhabited, and the Portuguese quickly established sugarcane plantations, making use of enslaved Africans for labor. Trindade's fertile land was instrumental in the early success of these plantations, setting the stage for the area's agricultural significance.

In the late 19th century, the decline of sugarcane production led to the rise of cocoa as the primary cash crop. Trindade became a focal point for cocoa plantations, contributing significantly to São Tomé and Príncipe's status as one of the world's largest cocoa producers by the early 20th century. The labor-intensive nature of cocoa farming brought about harsh working conditions for local workers and contract laborers.

Trindade is home to numerous examples of Portuguese colonial architecture. The town's layout and many of its buildings reflect the architectural styles brought by the colonizers, including distinctive features like terracotta roofs, tiled facades, and ornate churches. These structures serve as a testament to the town's historical importance and colonial past.

The struggle for independence from Portuguese rule gained momentum in the mid-20th century, affecting regions across São Tomé and Príncipe, including Trindade. The town played a role in the independence movement, with local leaders and residents participating in protests and political activities. The country ultimately achieved independence on July 12, 1975, marking a significant turning point in Trindade's history.

After gaining independence, Trindade, like much of São Tomé and Príncipe, faced economic challenges. The decline of the cocoa industry and a lack of infrastructure development impacted the town's growth. However, efforts have been made to diversify the economy and improve living conditions, with tourism emerging as a potential avenue for economic revitalization.

Trindade is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, which celebrate the town's rich heritage and traditions. One of the most notable events is the 'Festa de São João,' a religious and cultural festival featuring music, dance, and culinary delights. These festivals offer a glimpse into the local way of life and the enduring cultural practices of the community.

Trindade is located on the island of São Tomé, part of São Tomé and Príncipe. The main gateway to the island is São Tomé International Airport (TMS). From the airport, Trindade is roughly a 30-minute drive away. You can take a taxi or arrange for a pick-up service through your hotel. Car rentals are also available at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Trindade is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are widely available and can be flagged down on the street or booked through your accommodation. Public minibuses, known as 'hiaces', operate on fixed routes and are an inexpensive way to get around, though they can be crowded. Car rentals provide more flexibility for exploring outlying areas.

The official currency is the São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments. ATMs are available, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash upon arrival at the airport or in the capital city, São Tomé.

Trindade is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. It's best to avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings and use hotel safes for valuables. Some neighborhoods in São Tomé city, like Bairro Militar, have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Trindade has basic medical facilities, but for more serious health issues, you may need to go to a hospital in São Tomé city. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A respectful nod can also be appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Trindade like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss the chance to explore the lush rainforest and waterfalls nearby. For an authentic experience, try the local dish 'calulu', a fish or meat stew with vegetables.