Port of Spain

The capital and major city of Trinidad & Tobago is located in Trinidad, just 11 kilometers off the Venezuelan coasts, and the largest island of the Lesser Antilles with strong historical bonds with this arch of islands. This bustling and colorful city will offer visitors an array of options in shopping malls, hotels, restaurants and countless spot for entertainment and enjoyment. As far as the old part of town is concerned, the King's Wharf and the Independence Square are two cases in point. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a Catholic church built in 1832. Forts Chacon and Picton stand out with a breathtaking architecture. Other sightseeing locations are Trinidad's Parliament lodged in the Red House, a typical renaissance-style construction. The Woodford Plaza with its beautiful fountain that brings back memories from the past is a must-see. There's also the Church of Trinidad, anointed in 1823; the National Museum and the Art Gallery, both displaying exhibits on pre-Hispanic culture, paintings from contemporary artists and shows about oil production. The Queen's Park is widely known as Savannah that besides its peerless beauty, stands for a perfect spot for cultural manifestations. Not far from there, travelers will find the Seven Greats, an array of 19th-century buildings. The Botanical Garden, a huge tropical park, is also close at hand. Visitors can swing by the horserace track during the carnival season, a meeting location where people dance to the beat of calypso bands and enjoy the traditional horse races.

Tips

Cojimar, near Havana, was the setting for Ernest Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea. Nearby, the house where he lived is maintained exactly as he left it in 1960.