352 LEGAL IMPACTS OF COVID-19 IN THE TOURISM INDUSTRY In other words, the virus will not, and ought not, affect any contractual arrangements made prior to the public health emergency. 5. CONCLUSION Trinidad & Tobago is fortunate in that although tourism is of utmost importance to the economy – especially in Tobago –, the country is an oil and gas exporter. The bad news is that with the slump in the world’s economy, the oil and gas prices have correspondingly gone down. Both in Trinidad and in Tobago, there are a plethora of reputable car rental agencies, as well as taxis, that cater to the tourism sector; indeed, many taxi drivers know more about what is happening in town and the best and safest places to go than most business people and politicians. Both islands also have fairly good restaurants, which are at an international standard, and although the service can sometimes be a bit “spotty”, it is generally quite good in both islands. Local cuisine is available and, again, the local taxi driver is probably the best person to ask as to where to go and what to have. While Trinidad does have several beautiful beaches, it is more of an industrial island and caters more to international business. Tobago is still a relatively unspoiled island and the place to go to unwind. However, there is a bird sanctuary in Trinidad called the Asa Wright Bird Sanctuary which enjoys an international reputation. Certainly, bird watchers from all over the world come here to view and see the wide varieties of Caribbean and South American birds3. And, of course, Trinidad is the birthplace of the famous steelpan, and its Carnival is world-famous, with many celebrities, ranging from Mick Jagger to Halle Berry, having come down to enjoy it. Although this essay is not intended to sell Trinidad & Tobago, the fact that it is a good place to do business is clear from the number of international companies that are here (e.g., Hilton International, Hyatt, Marriott, BP, Repsol), and have been here for many years. Like everywhere else, there are difficulties and problems, but it is also an excellent place to invest and make money, and most definitely, after this virus is over and has run its course, there will be opportunities, especially in the tourism and hospitality industries, for those with the vision to do very well. 3 Note that Trinidad is only a few kilometres off the South American mainland, and so many species of birds sleep in Trinidad and fly across to the mainland to feed during the day before returning to Trinidad.
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