Live like a local under the Trinidad and Tobago sun

BY BRIDGETT LESLIE

Trinidad and Tobago, nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, is a paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Behind the scenes, a dedicated network of small tourism accommodation owners, known as STAOTT (Small Tourism Accommodation Owners of Trinidad and Tobago), is working tirelessly to ensure visitors experience the best of Caribbean hospitality.

At the forefront of this mission is STAOTT President, Denise Aleong-Thomas, who is passionately advocating for better policies and regulations to support small accommodation businesses. If you prefer a more peaceful and secluded atmosphere, local accommodations often offer a quieter and less crowded experience compared to large resorts or hotels. It has become easier to find one of these properties through STAOTT.

STAOTT is an organization that brings together bed and breakfasts, self-catering properties, and guesthouse owners from Trinidad and Tobago. This petite yet potent establishments cater to the discerning traveller, promising an experience that transcends the ordinary. They are your passport to the inner sanctum of local life, your invitation to dance with culture, tradition, and community. With hosts who consider your comfort their mission, you’re in for a personalized experience that etches itself into your memory. These havens often harbour secret treasures, from clandestine bistros to offbeat attractions that elude the tourist map, revealed only to those who seek the counsel of the local sages. STAOTT accommodation choices elude the entries of a typical tourist guidebook.

The travel landscape, under the influence of digital disruptors like Airbnb, has undergone a revolution in recent years. Yet, amid this upheaval, STAOTT has emerged as a resilient defender of local charm and authenticity.

Airbnb may cast a global shadow, but STAOTT radiates a distinct, local glow – a beacon of authenticity. At the helm of this movement is Denise Aleong-Thomas, an unwavering advocate with a wealth of experience in the tourism industry. Under her leadership, STAOTT has become a powerful voice for these businesses, advocating for their interests and working towards creating a nourishing environment for their growth.

Under her guidance, STATOTT challenged the Twin Island’s government over tourism policies and regulations. In Trinidad and Tobago, as in many other countries, small accommodation providers often grapple with burdensome regulations that can hinder their ability to thrive. STAOTT members have been actively engaging with government authorities to streamline these regulations, making it easier for small businesses to operate legally and efficiently.

Trinidad and Tobago, a twin-island paradise, unfolds its riches to those who dare to explore. Dive into the frenetic rhythms of Carnival, an unrivalled spectacle that sets souls ablaze. Venture into the lush embrace of the Northern Range, where rainforests guard secret waterfalls and wildlife dances to the rhythms of nature.

Savour the eclectic tapestry of flavours that meld: African, Indian, and Creole influences, served up in local markets and street corners, and when the horizon beckons towards Tobago’s tranquil shores, plunge into a world of pristine beaches and the enchanting underwater wonders of Buccoo Reef. It’s an Eden where you can hike to Fort King George for panoramic vistas, or wade into the heart of the Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve, a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Trinidad and Tobago welcome you with a kaleidoscope of experiences, and STAOTT invites you to live them like a local, for an authentic and unforgettable journey.