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B M & T ••• November/December 2017 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 41 T R I N I D A D & T O B A G O TRINIDAD & TOBAGO PROVIDE PLANERS A HOSPITABLE MEETING LOCATION IN PARADISE BY CYNTHIA MOLUSK Two islands, two unique experiences, one amazing destination! Trinidad & Tobago is one of the Caribbean's most exciting destinations and is the ideal loca- tion for your next conference, exhibition, or meeting. Here are a few reasons why Trinidad & Tobago should be at the top of your list. Strategically located between North & South America, Trinidad & Tobago is con- sidered to be the gateway to the Americas and the Caribbean. The two islands offer different but equally exciting experiences and are only a 25-minute flight or 2.5-hour ferry ride away from each other. With award-winning eco- tourism and pristine beaches, tranquil Tobago is the perfect complement to metropolitan Trinidad. These island gems can boast of having the largest conference facilities in the South Caribbean. They are also home to many international brands including the Hyatt Regency Trinidad, Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre, Radisson Hotel Trinidad, Courtyard by Marriott and Holiday Inn Express. Located in the heart of downtown Port of Spain and about 40 minutes from Piarco International Airport, Hyatt Regency Trinidad is the only venue on the island to offer expansive state-of- the-art meeting facilities. With 43,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, the hotel easily accommodates both large and small gatherings. Included in the function space are a 16,000-sq. ft. Regency Ballroom and a 10,000-sq.ft. multipurpose facility. There are also a number of charming boutique hotels and bed & breakfast establishments. These islands are a cultural melting pot and home to numerous ethnic groups. Religious and cultural festivals are held throughout the year and the capital city of Port of Spain offers a myriad of activities including an active nightlife scene, exqui- site dining and magnificent historical attractions. Dance is a cornerstone of Tobago's culture. Many of the island's distinct dances, like the Reel and Jig are British in origin but with movements influenced by the Africans. Performed by a couple or group, the Reel and Jig is reminiscent of an intricate courtship dance. Speech Bands also dance, with sharp, cutting strokes of a sword the key movement. Ceremonial dances associated with the African tribes brought to Tobago as slaves are also performed. An explosion of color, music, revelry, and creativity, Trinidad's Carnival has spawned similar celebrations around the world; but nothing on earth can rival the abandon, euphoria and stunning specta- cle of their festival. With its massive masquerade bands, spectacular costumes, pulsating music and unparalleled stamina for partying, Trinidad's Carnival is often described as the greatest show on earth. It is a time for release and everyone is invited to join the party. Business travellers and tourists must produce passports valid for three months longer than the intended stay and a return ticket, for entry into Trinidad and Tobago. For tourism and business related visits of up to 90 days, visas are not required for citizens of the United States. There is a regular air service, or air bridge, between Trinidad and Tobago, with the first of roughly 20 daily flights leaving Piarco International Airport at 6am. This service is run by Caribbean Airlines, Trinidad and Tobago's national air service provider. AREA GUIDES Local steel drum band preforming • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Hyatt Regency Trinidad 428 Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre 418 The Cascadia Hotel and Conference Centre 68 Courtyard Port of Spain 116 Kapok Hotel 94 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Hyatt Regency Trinidad total meeting space 43,000 sq. ft. meeting rooms 13 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Go Trinidad and Tobago (868) 675-7034 www.gotrinidadandtobago.com