Britons have been given a travel warning for a popular destination in the Caribbean. While Trinidad and Tobago is a popular tourist destination, famed for its beaches, waterfalls, incredible wildlife and delicious cuisine, holidaymakers were warned of the potential dangers of using dating apps.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warned tourists: “Take care when using dating apps in Trinidad and Tobago, especially those used by the LGBT+ community.
“Criminals have used apps like Grindr to trick, rob and assault people.”
The FCDO gave specific advice to LGBT+ travellers: “Male and female same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Trinidad and Tobago. There are laws prohibiting LGBT+ individuals from entering the country.
“In practice, these laws are rarely enforced, and there is growing local support for LGBT+ rights. However, showing affection in public may attract negative attention.”
Britons in the LGBT+ community should consult the FCDO’s official guidance for travelling abroad.
Holidaymakers were told: “Attitudes towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) travellers around the world can be very different from those in the UK.
“In many countries, LGBT+ people face legal restrictions. Around 70 countries criminalise consensual same-sex sexual activity. At least 15 countries criminalise diverse gender expression or identity through cross-dressing and disguise laws.
“To reduce the risks, prepare well and research your destination in advance, including legal restrictions and social attitudes.”
The FCDO has comprehensive guidance for LGBT+ holidaymakers, including guidance on what to do before they travel as well as while they are abroad, with specific sections on how the FCDO can help, healthcare, travelling abroad for transgender medical treatment, getting help, insurance and organisations that can help.
In addition to staying safe on dating apps, holidaymakers in Trinidad and Tobago should be aware of the threat of terrorism, crime, laws and cultural differences, transport risks, extreme weather and natural disasters.
The FCDO warned: “In Trinidad, there’s a high level of violent crime. Gang-related attacks and shootings are increasing around the city centre of Port of Spain, including Laventille, Morvant and Barataria.
“There is a risk of armed robbery. You can reduce the risk of being targeted when on foot by avoiding unlit areas at night and using well-populated roads and paths.
“Stay aware of your surroundings and carry a mobile phone with roaming for use in an emergency.”
“Violent criminals often carry out attacks in vehicles, ranging from the threat of violence to sexual assault and robbery, kidnapping for ransom, rape and murder.
“You can take precautions against being targeted by using well-established taxi firms, recommended by locals or your hotel, being cautious about accepting lifts in a private car or ‘maxi taxi’, taking local advice to avoid areas affected by gang violence and keeping the windows closed and doors locked while driving.”
Holidaymakers were told that “violent crime can also happen in Tobago, but is rarer”.
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Britons were given essential advice on how to protect themselves and their belongings: “If you’re staying in a villa, especially in an isolated area, it should have adequate security, including external security lighting, grills and overnight security guards.
“Withdrawing cash from an ATM or changing money can make you a target for pickpockets or muggers. Consider asking hotel or villa staff to take you by car.
“Keep money, valuables and passports somewhere safe, and never leave anything in an unattended vehicle.
“Avoid accepting drinks from anyone you do not know, and do not leave drinks unattended.”