# Updated Travel Advisory: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About Trinidad and Tobago in 2026
If you’re planning a Caribbean getaway to Trinidad and Tobago this year, recent developments require your attention before you book that flight from Ottawa. The Government of Canada updated its travel advisory for this twin-island nation on May 11, 2026, maintaining a **Level 2 risk rating—Exercise a High Degree of Caution**—with specific regions now flagged for even stricter precautions.
## Understanding the Current Situation
The advisory escalation stems from a nationwide state of emergency declared in early March 2026. This gives Trinidad and Tobago security forces expanded powers to conduct searches, arrests, and detentions without warrants. While this measure aims to curb violence, it means travellers will encounter heightened military and police presence throughout their visit.
Certain Port of Spain neighbourhoods—including Beetham Estate Gardens, Laventille, Sea Lots, and parts of downtown—now carry “avoid non-essential travel” warnings due to gang activity and violent crime rates.
## Safety Realities for Canadian Visitors
Beyond the state of emergency, violent crime remains the primary concern. Armed robberies, carjackings, and theft occur regularly, even in tourist areas. Criminals often target vehicles stopped at traffic lights or moving slowly through congested areas. Deserted beaches and nighttime walks pose significant risks.
Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching also affects visitors, particularly those displaying expensive jewelry, electronics, or carrying large amounts of cash.
## Health Preparation: Your First Line of Defence
For Ottawa travellers, proper preparation extends beyond situational awareness—it includes comprehensive travel health planning. Trinidad and Tobago presents specific health risks that require medical attention before departure.
Vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid are routinely recommended, as contaminated food and water pose risks. Depending on your itinerary and activities, you may need additional immunizations for hepatitis B, rabies, or yellow fever. Mosquito-borne illnesses including dengue, Zika, and chikungunya circulate year-round, making prevention strategies essential.
A pre-travel health consultation allows you to discuss antimalarial medications if you’re venturing into certain regions, prescription medications for travellers’ diarrhea, and proper assembly of a destination-specific medical kit. Given the current security situation, having appropriate medications and supplies before arrival is particularly important—you don’t want to navigate unfamiliar pharmacies during a state of emergency.
## Before You Depart Ottawa
Beyond your medical preparation, ensure you:
– Register with the Canadian embassy through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service
– Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation
– Store copies of important documents separately from originals
– Keep valid identification accessible at all times
– Plan accommodations with proper security features
The state of emergency adds complexity to what would normally be a straightforward Caribbean vacation, making thorough preparation non-negotiable.
Travelling to Trinidad and Tobago? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.