Barbados is the more popular tourism destination of the two islands mainly due to the fact that Trinidad & Tobago’s economy is centered on the oil and gas industry.
Our aim of this article is to provide a deep dive into both islands to help you decide which one is better for your upcoming Caribbean vacation.
As a general rule, Trinidad & Tobago is ideal for visitors seeking a vibrant nightlife atmosphere, diverse cuisine with an interest in bird watching. Alternatively, Barbados is suitable for a visitor seeking white sand beaches and turquoise waters in a quieter environment.
Read on for further information on how Trinidad & Tobago compares to Barbados. This article was written by a Caribbean national who visited both destinations in excess of twenty times.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Barbados- Which Island Is Bigger
Fondly referred to as the land of the hummingbird, Trinidad and Tobago is materially bigger than Barbados.
The island is called the land of the hummingbird as there are about eighteen species of these creatures living on the island.
Trinidad and Tobago is 1,981 square miles while Barbados is only 166 square miles.
The highest point of elevation in Barbados is Mt Hillaby which stands at 1,120 feet.
Located in Arima, El Cerro del Aripo is the highest point of elevation in Trinidad and Tobago at 3,084 feet.
Barbados became a Republic on November 30th, 2021 while Trinidad & Tobago was a Republic since August 1st, 1976.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Barbados- What Are The Official Currencies
The formal currencies of both islands vary. The official currency used in Barbados is the Barbadian dollar.
USD $1 is equivalent to BBD$2 and is also pegged to the US Dollar. The Barbadian currency is managed by its own local central bank.
On the other hand, the official currency of Trinidad & Tobago is Trinidadian dollar.
The currency is issued and managed by the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago located in the heart of the city Port of Spain.
The currency is available in bank notes and coins. Bank notes are in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 & 100 denominations. Alternatively, coins are available in 5, 10 and 25 cents pieces.
US dollars are readily accepted in both islands.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Barbados- Which Island Has The Better Nightlife
Trinidad & Tobago has the better nightlife of the two destinations and is one of best islands in the Caribbean for party lovers.
For individuals who are interested in culture and arts, dance is an art form that is extremely popular on the island.
Additionally, for golf enthusiasts there are several golf courses.
These are Tobago Plantations Beach and Golf Resort, St Andrews Golf Club and Mount Irvine Bay Golf Course.
Furthermore, the island has numerous entertainment spots. Sandbaggers Sports Lounge and Toppers Sports Bar & Grill are popular nightlife places to visit.
Alternatively, Barbados is much quieter when compared to Trinidad & Tobago.
Entertainment is primarily concentrated in the Southern part of the island.
Some of the best places to visit include Harbour Light Barbados and Red Door Lounge.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Barbados- Which Island Has Better Beaches
If beaches are your main motivation for your vacation, then hands down Barbados is the better destination.
Crane beach located on the southeastern end is one of the most popular beaches on the island.
Its pink sand and beautiful waters have earned it several accolades.
Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent. The beach shares it shores with the hotel Crane Resort.
On the contrary, Maracas Bay Beach is the most popular beach in Trinidad and Tobago. It is located about 30-45 minutes drive from the capital city of Port of Spain.
There are a number of vendors selling one of the most well- loved street foods in Trinidad which is bake and shark.
Richard’s Bake & Shark is one of the famous food stalls on this beach.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Barbados- Which Island Has Better Cuisine
When it comes to cuisine and culinary diversity in the Caribbean, Trinidad & Tobago is one of the top destinations.
This is due to the multi-cultural nature of the island. Trinidadians are a descendant of Indian, African, Portuguese, Spanish and Chinese.
One of the most common street foods on the island is doubles.
This is made with baras which can be compared to a sandwich that is used to hold a mixture with channa, chutney and a variety of sauces.
Alternatively, the cuisine in Barbados is generally the typical West Indian foods. The national dish of the island is cou cou and flying fish.
Cou cou is made with corn flour which is allowed to simmer in coconut milk. One needs to ensure and stir consistently to avoid lumps.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Barbados- ActivitiesTo Enjoy On The Islands
Asa Wright Nature Centre, Trinidad & Tobago– this property is ideal for nature enthusiasts especially bird watchers. It consists of 1,500 acres of forest located in the Arima and Aripo valley.
St Nicholas Abbey & Steam Railway, Barbados– located in the parish of Saint Peter, this attraction is a plantation house, museum and rum distillery.
The key feature is that you tour the property on a steam locomotive. There is an admission fee which varies for children and adults. This attraction is usually closed on Tuesdays.
Final Thoughts
On a whole, Barbados is an exceptional choice for a traveler who is seeking to enjoy white sand beaches and touring the iconic St Nicholas Abbey & Steam Railway. On the other hand, Trinidad & Tobago is perfect for a visitor who wants to enjoy bird watching, unique cuisine and entertainment.
Need More Information?
Our website contains several articles on Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago and the rest of the Caribbean.
Feel free to continue reading by searching for more articles using the search bar located on the top of this page.
What Is The Best Currency For Trinidad & Tobago
Best Currency For Barbados (The Ultimate Guide)
What Are The Pros & Cons of Living In Barbados
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Jamaica ( Which Vacation Is Better)
Living In Trinidad & Tobago ( Pros & Cons Fully Explained)
