The Heartbeat of Trinidad: Downtown Port of Spain

• HelloWa la gwaan
  [wah la gwaan]
• GoodbyeLatah
  [lay-tah]
• YesYes
  [yes]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePleaz
  [pleez]
• Thank youTank yuh
  [tank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorrySarry
  [sah-ree]
• How are you?How yuh stayin?
  [how yuh stay-in]
• Fine. And you?Ahright. An yuh?
  [ah-right. an yuh]
• Do you speak English?Yuh talk English?
  [yuh talk english]
• I don't understandAh eh grasp dat
  [ah eh grasp dat]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLemme see de menu please
  [leh-meh see deh menu please]
• I don't eat meatAh doh eat meat
  [ah doh eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI go pay now, please
  [i go pay now please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Geh way!
  [geh way]
• Call the Police!Call de Police!
  [call de police]
• Call a doctor!Call a doctah!
  [call a doctah]
• I'm lostAh lost
  [ah lost]
• I'm illAh sick
  [ah sick]

• I'd like to buy...Ah wud like ta buy...
  [ah wud like ta buy]
• I'm just lookingAh jess lookin
  [ah jess look-in]
• How much is it?How much dis is?
  [how much dis is]
• That's too expensiveDat too dear
  [dat too dear]
• Can you lower the price?Yuh cud drop de price?
  [yuh could drop de price]

• What time is it?What time it is?
  [what time it is]
• It's one o'clockIs one o'clock
  [is one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
• MorningMawnin
  [mawnin]
• AfternoonAftanoon
  [aftanoon]
• EveningEvenin
  [evenin]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
• 1One
  [one]
• 2Two
  [two]
• 3Tree
  [tree]
• 4Foh
  [foh]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Weh de...?
  [weh de]
• What's the address?Weh de address dey?
  [weh de address dey]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh cud show me (on de map)?
  [yuh could show me (on de map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When de next (bus) comin?
  [when de next (bus) comin]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

The area now known as Downtown Port of Spain was originally inhabited by the Indigenous peoples of Trinidad, including the Arawaks and Caribs. European colonization began in 1498 when Christopher Columbus arrived, but it wasn’t until the British took control in the late 18th century that significant urban development began. Port of Spain was established as the capital in 1757, serving as a key administrative and commercial center for the British Empire in the Caribbean.

The 19th century marked a period of economic prosperity for Downtown Port of Spain, largely driven by the cocoa industry. Trinidad became one of the world’s leading cocoa producers, with Port of Spain serving as the hub for cocoa exportation. This boom attracted a diverse population, including indentured laborers from India, whose cultural influences are still evident in the city today.

In 1876, the Trinidad Government Railway was inaugurated, connecting Port of Spain to the sugar-producing areas of the island. This development facilitated trade and transportation, further solidifying Downtown Port of Spain's status as a commercial center. The railway station, located in the downtown area, became a vital part of the city’s infrastructure and is a notable historical landmark.

The mid-20th century was a time of significant political activism in Downtown Port of Spain, culminating in Trinidad and Tobago's independence from British rule in 1962. The area witnessed various protests and demonstrations advocating for social and economic rights, which played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s political landscape. The Red House, located in Downtown Port of Spain, served as the seat of the parliament and remains a symbol of political history.

Downtown Port of Spain is characterized by its vibrant cultural diversity, reflecting the influences of African, Indian, European, and Indigenous cultures. This blend is evident in the annual Carnival celebrations, which feature elaborate costumes, music, and dance. The neighborhood also hosts numerous festivals and events, showcasing traditional arts, crafts, and culinary delights that highlight the rich heritage of Trinidad and Tobago.

Downtown Port of Spain is accessible from various neighbourhoods in the city. If you are coming from the north, you can take a taxi or a maxi-taxi, which are shared vans that operate on set routes. Buses also connect Downtown with areas like St. Ann's and Woodbrook. From the airport, taxis are available and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Downtown Port of Spain is best explored on foot due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout. Public transportation includes buses and maxi-taxis, which are affordable and frequent. Taxis are also available but are generally more expensive. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the area.

While Downtown Port of Spain is generally safe during the day, it is advisable to avoid certain areas at night, particularly around the outskirts of the city where crime rates can be higher. Specific areas, such as some parts of Laventille and Sea Lots, have been known for crimes targeting tourists. Always remain vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and stay in well-lit, populated areas.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police assistance, or 811 for medical emergencies. Local hospitals are available, including the Port of Spain General Hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical situations. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available in Downtown.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but avoid overly revealing clothing out of respect for local customs. Religion: Do be respectful of religious sites; cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do give way to the elderly and be courteous. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or nod; handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and drinks, but don't refuse offerings as it's considered rude.

To experience Downtown Port of Spain like a local, visit the bustling markets such as the Queen's Park Savannah on weekends, where you can enjoy local delicacies. Engage with local vendors and be open to trying different foods. For a unique experience, consider participating in local festivals, especially during Carnival season, to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture. Lastly, explore the nearby art galleries and museums for a taste of local history and contemporary art.