Two of the larger islands in the Caribbean are Trinidad & Tobago and Jamaica.
The former is located in the southern end the Caribbean while the latter is in the northern region.
In this article, we take a closer look at how these islands compare and contrast to help you decide which one is right for your Caribbean vacation.
As a general rule, Trinidad & Tobago is ideal for visitors seeking lively nightlife atmosphere and enjoying the exotic Bamboo Cathedral. Alternatively, Jamaica is suitable for persons seeking white sand beaches with turquoise waters and a bustling nightlife environment.
Read on for more information about these two spectacular Caribbean islands. This article was written by a Caribbean national who visited both islands multiple times.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Jamaica- Which Island Is Bigger
Known as the birthplace of reggae music, Jamaica is the bigger of the two destinations being 4,244 square miles.
The blue mountain peak is the highest point of elevation in Jamaica at 7,402 feet and the population according to worldmeters.com was 2,986,543 at the time of writing.
Trinidad & Tobago is a little less than half its size being 1,981 square miles.
Located in Arima, El Cerro del Aripo is the highest point of elevation in Trinidad and Tobago at 3,084 feet.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Jamaica- What Are The Official Currencies
Both islands have its unique official currency managed by its own local central bank.
The Trinidad and Tobago dollar is the island’s official currency which 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.
Contrastingly, Jamaica has its own currency which is the Jamaican dollar. The Bank of Jamaica which is the central bank is responsible for the island’s monetary policy.
Nevertheless, US dollar is widely accepted in both countries with change given in the local currency. US coins are usually rejected.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Jamaica- Which Island Gets More Tourists
Jamaica is the island that receives more tourists and this is due to the fact that the island has placed specific emphasis on this area as part of its productive sector.
According to Tourism Analytics, the island received 2,680,920 air passengers compared to 388,576 for Trinidad & Tobago.
Trinidad & Tobago has enjoyed economic growth and development due to the presence of a thriving oil and gas industry.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Jamaica- Which Island Has The Better Beaches
If your main vacation motivation is relaxing on white sand beaches with turquoise waters, then Jamaica is the right island for you.
The most popular beach in Jamaica is the glorious seven mile beach in Negril.
It is well loved due to its long stretch of white sand and calm waters.
This makes it perfect for families with children as well as a range of water sport activities such as jet skiing, horseback riding, kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving.
There are various amenities such as life guards, security guards, souvenir shops and restaurants in the vicinity.
On the other hand, Maracas Bay Beach is the most popular beach in Trinidad and Tobago.
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 Jamaica- Which Island Has The Better Nightlife
Both islands have a lively and vibrant nightlife environment. The islands have a number of night clubs, bars, theatre and many other entertainment art forms.
Some of the nightlife spots to explore in Trinidad & Tobago include The Avenue Pub House and The Shade.
Along the same lines, some of the places to visit in Jamaica include One Love Bus Bar Crawl and Floyd’s Pelican Bar.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Jamaica-Which Island Has Greater Threat of Hurricanes
When it comes to hurricane, Jamaica has the greater threat as Trinidad & Tobago is located outside of the hurricane belt.
The last major hurricane to impact the island was Ivan in 2004. This storm caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure.
While it is a rare event for a hurricane to directly impact Trinidad & Tobago, its location makes it susceptible to earthquakes.
The strongest earthquake to affect the island was in April, 1997 which measured 6.7 on the Richter scale.
Trinidad & Tobago Vs Jamaica- Activities & Things To Do
Bamboo Cathedral, Trinidad & Tobago- enjoy this beautiful picture perfect area in Chaguaramus excellent for nature lovers. This venue is ideal for amazing Instagram photos.
Rastafari Indigenous Village, Jamaica– dive deeper into the Rastafarian culture and community by visiting this location.
Located in Montego Bay, this attraction is not available daily. Therefore, it is ideal to call and make a booking prior to visiting.
Final Thoughts
On a whole, Trinidad and Tobago is perfect for visitors seeking a vibrant nightlife atmosphere while exploring the spectacular Bamboo Cathedral. On the other hand, Jamaica is suitable for individuals seeking a bustling nightlife environment while exploring an indigenous Rastafarian village.
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