San Juan
,San Juan is a vibrant town located in the northern part of Trinidad and Tobago. It is known for its bustling markets, colorful shops, and lively atmosphere. The town is home to a diverse population, with people from various cultural backgrounds living harmoniously together.
San Juan is also a hub for transportation, with easy access to buses and taxis connecting it to other parts of the country.
- "Wah dat?" - What is that?
- "Mek we go" - Let's go
- "How yuh going?" - How are you doing?
- "I good" - I am good
- "No problem" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore San Juan: Arrival
morning
:Arrive in San Juan and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around Old San Juan to get a feel for the city's vibrant atmosphere.
afternoon
:Visit the historic El Morro fortress, enjoying the stunning views of the ocean. Grab lunch at a local eatery to savor some authentic Puerto Rican cuisine.
evening
:Explore the colorful streets filled with local shops and art. Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, watching the sunset over the ocean.
Relaxing at the Beaches
morning
:Head to the beautiful beaches of Isla Verde for some sun and relaxation. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.
afternoon
:Have lunch at a beachside café and continue to soak up the sun. Try out water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing for some adventure.
evening
:Wind down with a beach bonfire while enjoying the local music scene. Dine at a nearby restaurant featuring fresh seafood as your day comes to a close.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant music scene.
- Beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
- Warm climate year-round, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- A diverse culinary scene offering local and international cuisine.
Bad
- Challenges with crime and safety in certain areas.
- Limited public transportation options, making it necessary to have a car.
- Potential environmental issues such as flooding during heavy rains.
- Economic disparities and growth challenges.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Northern Range
Explore the lush hills of the Northern Range with its diverse flora and fauna. Trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.
Visit Maracas Beach
Relax on the beautiful sands of Maracas Beach, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and trying local delicacies like bake and shark.
Bird Watching at the Asa Wright Nature Centre
Experience the rich biodiversity of Trinidad as you spot a variety of bird species, including the famous Scarlet Ibis, in their natural habitat.
Kayaking in the Caroni Swamp
Take a guided kayak tour through the Caroni Swamp, where you can observe exotic wildlife, including herons and manatees, while enjoying the serene environment.
Exploring Fort George
Visit Fort George for a glimpse into Trinidad's history and stunning views of the harbor and Port of Spain. It's a great spot for photography and picnics.
Attend the Tobago Jazz Festival
Experience the vibrant music scene outdoors at the Tobago Jazz Festival, featuring local and international artists in a beautiful coastal setting.
Snorkeling at Buccoo Reef
Discover the underwater beauty of Buccoo Reef, known for its colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkeling tours are available for all skill levels.
Cycling along the Emperor Valley Zoo
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the scenic routes near the Emperor Valley Zoo, where you can also stop to see local wildlife and plant life.
Adventures
Uncover the best of San Juan with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Fort King George
A historic site offering panoramic views of Scarborough and the Caribbean Sea, perfect for capturing sunset photographs.
Pigeon Point
Renowned for its stunning beach and the iconic thatched-roof hut, this location is ideal for vibrant beach photos and sunset shots.
Charlotteville
A picturesque fishing village with hiking trails leading to viewpoints overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic coast.
Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve
Home to lush greenery and diverse wildlife, this reserve offers several viewpoints for nature photography and breathtaking landscapes.
The Nylon Pool
A stunning natural swimming pool located off the coast of Tobago, it's perfect for photography, especially during the early morning light.
Buccoo Reef
Famous for its vibrant coral reefs, this spot is perfect for underwater photography and capturing the beauty of marine life.
Scarborough Esplanade
An excellent spot for capturing the charm of Scarborough, with views of the harbor and the vibrant local life.
Argyle Waterfall
A stunning 54-foot waterfall surrounded by lush forest, offering unique photo opportunities in a serene natural setting.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Doubles
A popular street food consisting of two pieces of flatbread filled with curried chickpeas, often served with various chutneys and hot sauces. Must-try at Richard's Doubles in Curepe.
Must-Try!
Callaloo
A savory soup made with dasheen leaves, okra, and often cooked with coconut milk and various seasonings. Best enjoyed at a local home-based eatery like Marjorie's Callaloo in San Juan.
Bake and Shark
A beloved beach snack featuring fried shark served in a fried flatbread with an array of condiments and toppings. Visit Richard's Bake & Shark by Maracas Beach for an authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Juan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
San Juan Market
Visit the bustling San Juan Market to immerse yourself in the local food scene. You'll find vendors offering a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and street food delicacies like roti and BBQ chicken.
St. James Street Food
Explore the vibrant street food scene in St. James, where you can sample a diverse range of savory snacks such as pholourie (split pea fritters), aloo pies (potato-filled pastries), and other tempting treats.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In San Juan, it is customary to greet people warmly with a handshake or a friendly nod. When meeting someone for the first time, addressing them politely using titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' is appreciated.
Dress Code
Trinidadians tend to dress smartly, especially for social events or church services. Wearing neat and appropriate attire shows respect for the local culture and values.
Family and Community
Family is central to life in San Juan. Showing respect for family ties and community relationships is essential. Participating in local events and gatherings is a good way to integrate and demonstrate respect for cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Juan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. Service workers in restaurants often receive tips ranging from 10% to 15% of the total bill, especially if the service was exceptional. In bars and cafes, patrons may round up the bill or leave small change. Tipping taxi drivers is also common, usually rounding up the fare. However, in more formal establishments, a service charge may already be included in the bill.
Payment
Payment methods in San Juan are diverse. Most businesses accept cash (Trinidad and Tobago dollars), and while larger establishments usually accept credit and debit cards, it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets. Mobile payment options are becoming more common, but acceptance may vary. Additionally, it's customary to verify if a place accepts cards before ordering, and ATMs are readily available for those needing cash.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Juan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (December to May)
This is considered the best time to visit San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago. Expect warm temperatures, low humidity, and little to no rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island's natural beauty.
Wet Season (June to November)
During this season, the weather is more humid, and rain is more frequent. However, temperatures remain warm. Expect some vibrant local festivals and events, especially around the Carnival period in February, which can be a highlight for visitors.
Carnival Season (February)
Though technically part of the dry season, Carnival is a unique time to visit. Expect lively street parties, parades, and an energetic atmosphere. Accommodations and flights may be more expensive, and it's advisable to book in advance.
Shoulder Season (November and May)
These months present a mix of favorable weather and lower tourist traffic. Visitors can expect decent weather conditions and fewer crowds, making it an excellent time for a quieter experience.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Northern Range
A mountainous area offering various trails with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and lush rainforest. Popular for birdwatching and spotting native wildlife.
El Tucuche
The highest peak in Trinidad, with challenging trails that reward hikers with panoramic views. It’s a great spot for experienced hikers.
Cascadoux Trail
This trail leads to picturesque waterfalls and is suitable for beginners as well as families. It's a perfect spot for a day hike.
Turure Waterfall Trail
A moderate hike through rainforest that leads to beautiful waterfalls. Ideal for refreshing swims and scenic photography.
La Lune Trail
A lesser-known trail that offers a peaceful hiking experience with lush vegetation and occasional dolphin sightings off the coast.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Juan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach San Juan by plane.
Piarco International Airport (POS)
Located in Piarco, Trinidad, approximately 25 kilometers from San Juan. It serves as the main international gateway to Trinidad and Tobago.
Crown Point International Airport (TAB)
Located on the island of Tobago, this airport is about 80 kilometers from San Juan. It provides international and domestic flights, serving as a point of entry to Tobago's tourism.
Georgetown Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO)
Located in Guyana, this airport is approximately 400 kilometers from San Juan. It serves as the main international airport in Guyana, offering regional and international flights.
Hewanorra International Airport (UVF)
Located in Saint Lucia, about 175 kilometers from San Juan. This airport serves as a major gateway for international travelers visiting Saint Lucia.
Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF)
Located in Fort-de-France, Martinique, approximately 140 kilometers from San Juan. It handles flights to and from many destinations in the Caribbean and Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mixed
A combination of various ethnic groups, including Afro-Trinidadians and Indo-Trinidadians, which is a prominent demographic in San Juan.
Afro-Trinidadians
Individuals of African descent, forming a significant portion of the population in San Juan and Trinidad and Tobago as a whole.
Indo-Trinidadians
Individuals of Indian descent, making up a considerable demographic group in the region, particularly in urban areas including San Juan.
Other Ethnic Groups
Includes various smaller populations such as those of European, Middle Eastern, and Chinese heritage.
Indigenous Peoples
The original inhabitants of the region, though they represent a very small percentage of the overall population.
The Soul of San Juan
Discover the essence of San Juan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket
A major sport in Trinidad and Tobago, cricket is played at both amateur and professional levels, with a strong local following and participation in international competitions.
Soccer
Soccer, known as football in many parts of the world, is widely played in San Juan, with numerous leagues and youth programs, reflecting the country's passion for the sport.
Netball
Netball enjoys popularity primarily among women and girls, with various clubs and schools participating in local competitions.
Basketball
Basketball has gained a significant following in Trinidad and Tobago, with many local courts and leagues fostering talent from a young age.
Track and Field
Athletics, particularly sprinting, has a rich legacy in Trinidad and Tobago, with numerous athletes finding success on the international stage.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional dishes often contain meat or dairy, many restaurants and cafes in San Juan offer vegetarian and vegan choices, such as vegetable curries, plantain-based dishes, and fresh fruit smoothies.
Gluten-Free Dining
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find options like grilled fish, rice and beans, and cassava-based breads at various dining establishments. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a positive dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Juan with these cultural adventures.
