AGP Executive Report

Travel Routes & Tourism Links: Contour Airlines says it will launch flights between Trinidad and Dominica on October 5, 2026 (two weekly services), with one-stop connections onward to San Juan and St Thomas—aimed at boosting travel and tourism between the islands. Water & Hospitality Readiness: Tobago hoteliers are being urged to brace for a “rough” October as drought conditions trigger water restrictions; stakeholders want more storage and a reliable WASA supply schedule ahead of Carnival demand. Environment & Community Events: Government will continue funding the International Coastal Clean-Up (ICC) with a $121,000 subvention, keeping the annual beach and coastal effort moving through CNIRD’s coordination. Nature Tourism Spotlight: A travel feature highlights Nariva Swamp as a top nature stop—home to manatees, caimans, and hundreds of bird species—positioning it for eco and birdwatching visitors. Culture & Music Calendar: Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival returns Oct 23–25, 2026 at Windsor Park, with NE-YO and Machel Montano among major international acts, plus regional performers including Full Blown from T&T. Local Business & Exports: T&T’s trade mission to Canada (Aug 27–Sep 2) will take nearly 25 companies to Toronto, including an investor round-table and a Trinbago Festival showcase for tourism and culture.

TSTT Governance Storm: The Communications Workers’ Union is questioning TSTT’s “executive revolving door” and management expansion after the state-owned company posted TT$214m profit for the year ended March 31, 2026. Nature Tourism Spotlight: Nariva Swamp is being pitched as a must-visit for birdwatchers and eco-travellers, with its wetlands, manatees, caimans and international Ramsar status. Travel & Culture Abroad: Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival 2026 (Oct 23–25) is set to bring NE-YO, Machel Montano, Maxi Priest and more, with Trinidad acts also in the mix. Business Travel Push: T&T’s trade mission to Canada (Aug 27–Sep 2) will take nearly 25 companies to Toronto, including a major investor round-table and a Trinbago Festival showcase. Hotel Update: Runway Hotel in Piarco is on the market for $45m, marketed for corporate travellers and airport-area visitors. Local Sports Tourism: The Soca Warriors open their CONCACAF Nations League campaign against Haiti in Kingston on Sept 23, with home matches at Hasely Crawford Stadium following.

Marine Conservation & Eco-Tourism: A UTT PhD candidate is using underwater hydrophones to study Trinidad’s manatees in Nariva, aiming to fill a long data gap and strengthen conservation planning. T&T to Canada Trade Push: Minister Satyakama Maharaj leads nearly 25 local companies to Toronto for the Beyond Borders: Canada Trade and Investment Mission (Aug 27–Sep 2), with an investor round-table and a Trinbago Festival showcase at Nathan Phillips Square. Soca & Travel Culture: Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival (Oct 23–25) announces NE-YO, Machel Montano, Maxi Priest and more, with accommodations still available for regional and international visitors. Sport Tourism Spotlight: Minister Phillip Watts says a national sport tourism policy is heading to Cabinet soon, pitching Trinidad’s sporting facilities and a “hotel inside the hub” idea near major venues. Visitor Safety & Security: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar urges calm after bomb threats across T&T, saying all reports are treated seriously. Local Hospitality Watch: Runway Hotel in Piarco is listed for sale at $45m, marketed for corporate travellers and airport-area visitors. Football Schedule for Fans: The Soca Warriors open their CONCACAF Nations League A campaign against Haiti in Kingston (Sept 24/23 window), then host the Dominican Republic (Sept 27) and play Curaçao (Oct 1, Oct 4). Travel Disruption Alert: A passenger was arrested at Piarco after firearm and ammunition were found during customs checks.

Police & Security: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar says Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro followed protocol before emergency leave, but won’t disclose the national security reasons. Separately, Trinidad and Tobago faced coordinated bomb threats at 11 locations, including magistrates’ courts and government offices—authorities say all reports are treated seriously and citizens should go about their business. Aviation & Travel Safety: A passenger arriving at Piarco from New York was arrested after customs found a Ruger firearm, magazine and .380 ammunition; he’s remanded and returns to court Sept. 9. Tourism & Hospitality: Runway Hotel in Piarco is listed for sale at $45m, marketed for corporate travellers and airline crews near the airport corridor. Culture & Events: Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival (Oct 23–25) announces NE-YO, Machel Montano, Maxi Priest and more, with T&T acts included. Sports Tourism: T&T’s CONCACAF Nations League A campaign starts Sept. 24 vs Haiti in Kingston, with home matches at Hasely Crawford Stadium and travel to Curaçao.

Caribbean Tourism & Culture: Tobago is pushing greener stays with the new Tobago Eco-Stewardship Programme, urging hotels and tour operators to adopt more sustainable practices while helping build eco-trails and green spaces across the island. Travel & Hospitality Watch: Runway Hotel in Piarco is listed for sale at $45 million, marketed for corporate travellers and visitors near the airport corridor. Sports Tourism Push: Sport and Youth Affairs Minister Phillip Watts says Trinidad and Tobago is moving to grow sport tourism revenue, with a national policy expected to go to Cabinet soon and plans to develop hotel hubs near major sporting venues. Regional Events for Visitors: A Caribbean-wide search is underway for a media correspondent to travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the Caribbean Music Awards on Sept. 19, with flights and accommodation included. Local Spotlight: The Trinbago Beach Volleyball fifth leg crowned new Open champions at Turtle Beach, adding to the island’s active events calendar.

Cruise & Culture: Saga Cruises announced classical crossover artist Katherine will perform on its 73-night Spirit of Adventure Grand Voyage to South America in 2027, with calls including Tobago—plus an optional Machu Picchu overland trip. Tourism Opportunities: A Caribbean-wide search is underway for a new media correspondent for the Caribbean Music Awards in Trinidad & Tobago (Sept. 19, 2026), with the winner getting flights, accommodation and red-carpet access. Tobago Eco-Tourism Push: Tobago launched the Tobago Eco-Stewardship Programme to help hotels and tour operators adopt greener practices, with training links and eco-trail development. Local Sports Tourism Angle: Sport and Youth Affairs Minister Phillip Watts says a national sport tourism policy is headed to Cabinet soon, aiming to build hotel hubs near major facilities and grow foreign exchange. Travel Safety & Disruption: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar urged calm after bomb threats across T&T, telling citizens to go about daily life while authorities treat every report seriously. Beach Volleyball Spotlight: Trinbago Beach Volleyball’s fifth leg crowned new Open champions at Turtle Beach, Tobago—Daniel/Enile (men) and Urquhart/Narcis (women). Tobago Security: A Tobago businessman was assaulted during a home invasion in Calder Hall, with cash and electronics stolen.

Sport Tourism Push: Sport and Youth Affairs Minister Phillip Watts says Trinidad and Tobago is moving to make sport tourism a major revenue stream, with a national sport tourism policy expected at Cabinet soon and plans for hotel development near key venues. Tobago Eco-Tourism Upgrade: Tobago’s Reforestation, Watershed and Rehabilitation Programme launches a Tobago Eco-Stewardship Programme to help hotels and tour operators adopt greener practices and build eco-trails. Tobago Carnival Safety: Tobago promoters say the 2026 Carnival music restriction targets songs promoting violent gang culture, not any specific genre—aimed at protecting visitor confidence. Inter-Island Comfort Fix: Truckers travelling to Tobago will get cabins on the MV Golden Carrier after complaints about sleeping conditions on the MV Blue Wave. Quality Infrastructure Boost: The Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism appoints a new Board for the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards to strengthen national quality systems and support export-ready business. Regional Travel Disruption Watch: Bomb threats across multiple locations in Trinidad and Tobago led to evacuations and postponed court and government operations, with authorities urging calm. Tourism Talent Spotlight: A Caribbean-wide search is underway for a media correspondent to travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the Caribbean Music Awards, with flights and accommodation included.

Tobago Carnival Safety Rules: Promoters say the 2026 Tobago Carnival music restriction isn’t aimed at any one genre—only songs that promote violent content or gang affiliation will be targeted, following talks with the Tobago ACP and a push to protect tourism confidence. Inter-Island Travel Comfort: Truckers on the MV Golden Carrier (replacing the MV Blue Wave) have been given cabins after complaints and a video showing some sleeping on the floor, with the Port Authority and operators working on arrangements. Police Leadership Update: Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro says his sudden departure followed established emergency-leave procedures after he received confidential intelligence, while TTPS also confirmed multiple bomb threats across several courts and locations. Forex for Travellers: A new licensed option, Wam, is being promoted as a way to convert TTD to USD/euros/GBP and move funds via supported banking or digital payments—aimed at easing travel and online spending. Tourism & Nature Spotlight: Woodland is being highlighted as a hidden gem for rivers, misty mornings, mangroves and birdlife in the South Oropouche wetlands—plus the promise of lesser-known islands. Local Food Supply Watch: WGM Group links pressure on Trinidad’s chicken supply to heat affecting hatchery eggs and local growth, plus disrupted sea-freight schedules.

India–T&T Opportunities: High Commissioner Chandradath Singh says India’s rapid economic and technological growth is opening fresh chances for Trinidad and Tobago in investment, energy, skills, tourism and cultural exchange. Eco-Tourism & Food: Tropikist Beach Hotel and Resort is pushing greener stays with a farm-to-table initiative, using fresh on-site produce as part of its environmental push. Tobago Travel Comfort: Tobago PNM council leader Shamfa Cudjoe-Lewis condemns reported conditions for truckers on the MV Golden Carrier, including claims of sleeping on the floor and calls for proper cabin arrangements. Cycling Tourism: The Tobago International Cycling Classic (TICC) is being promoted as a “destination race” that blends competition with island scenery, from seaside views to rainforest routes. Culture for Visitors: The African Women’s Association Vacation Camp in Belmont is keeping heritage alive through games, table etiquette and hands-on learning for kids. Tourism Events: Trinidad and Tobago is set to host Miss India Worldwide and Miss Global International pageants in October, expected to draw visitors and spotlight local culture. Regional Festival Buzz: Dominica’s WCMF returns Oct 23–25 with big names including Ne-Yo and Machel Montano, plus local and regional acts. Nature Getaway: Woodland is highlighted as a quieter side of Trinidad, with South Oropouche wetland beauty and riverbank camping experiences.

Tourism & Events: Trinidad and Tobago is set to host the Miss India Worldwide and Miss Global International pageants in October, with organisers expecting a major visitor boost and a chance to spotlight T&T culture and hospitality to global audiences. Travel & Nature: Woodland is being promoted as a hidden gem for riverbank camping, fishing and birdlife in the South Oropouche wetlands, with locals pointing visitors toward lesser-known islands deep in the Gordineau Swamp. Tobago Spotlight: A new mural at Tobago’s airport—“The Greatest Little Island on the Planet”—has sparked debate over whether it’s political messaging, but Tourism Secretary Zorisha Hackett says it’s about promoting Tobago itself. Food Supply Watch: WGM Group says heat, disrupted shipping and weaker imported hatchery eggs are temporarily pressuring the national chicken supply chain. Sports Tourism: The Loloy Youth Classic kicked off at Beausejour Gymnasium with Trinidad & Tobago’s Warriors starting strong, while SporTT and the Ministry move to clarify support for Tobago schools in the SSFL.

Miss India Worldwide & Miss Global International: Trinidad and Tobago is gearing up to host the pageants in October, with organisers expecting thousands of visitors and a big boost for tourism and international exposure. Tourism & Culture in Tobago: A mural at the Arthur NR Robinson International Airport has sparked debate over whether it’s political messaging, with Tourism officials saying it’s meant to promote Tobago itself. Tourism, Heritage & Community: Steelpan Month celebrations in Tobago kicked off with Sunday School-style pan sessions featuring local panyards, including the Buccooneers, Katzenjammers and Tobago Pan-thers—an easy cultural stop for visitors. Local Clean-Up for Beach Tourism: The Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo Regional Corporation began cleaning Carli Bay after reports of dumping, aiming to restore the beachfront as a recreation spot. Sports Tourism: The Caribbean Premier League 2026 runs Aug 7–Sept 20, with St Vincent hosting CPL fixtures for the first time and playoffs in Barbados. Health & Travel Impact: Trinidadian cancer patient Dinesh Gadraj died in India after treatment, highlighting the real travel costs families face for specialised care.

Tobago Steelpan Month: Buccoo’s Buccooneers kicked off weekly Sunday School steelpan sessions with Katzenjammers and Tobago Pan-thers, welcoming locals and visitors to experience the national instrument and heritage. Carli Bay Clean-Up: Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo Regional Corporation started a beachfront reclamation drive at Carli Bay after years of indiscriminate dumping, warning offenders they’ll face penalties. Sports & Youth: SporTT and the Sport Ministry clarified support for SSFL travel, with Tobago schools pushing for a return to a 17-team Premier Division format after concerns over inter-island costs. Travel & Culture Abroad: Super Wings NY launched its Caribbean debut at Soca Island in Point Fortin during Emancipation Weekend, pairing Angostura products with local cuisine and carnival-inspired flavours. Health & Community: Trinidadian cancer patient Dinesh Gadraj died in India after CAR T-cell therapy and a bone marrow transplant, following earlier financial help for treatment. Public Safety Debate: Government’s plan for 30 joint army-police posts is under renewed scrutiny over staffing, hours, and communications.

Steelpan Tourism Moment: Tobago’s Steelpan Month kicks off with Sunday School-style pan sessions as Buccoo’s Buccooneers welcome Katzenjammers and Tobago Pan-thers—an easy, visitor-friendly way to experience local heritage. Local Clean-Up for Beach Tourism: The Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo Regional Corporation starts cleaning Carli Bay after years of dumping, aiming to restore the beachfront for recreation. Youth & Culture Spotlight: MCCD’s Trinbago Talent: Uncovered 2026 finals at SAPA in San Fernando crowned Shemic St. Hillaire, with performances streamed on TTT. Sports Travel Equity: SporTT and the Ministry clarify they’re funding Tobago teams’ air travel for the Secondary Schools Football League, with a 17-team Premier Division format expected. Safety & Community Watch: Coast Guard searches for Venezuelan migrant Nikol Landaeta after a July 25 capsize have paused pending new information. Tourism Caution: Five Tobago families report losing $100,000+ to a travel agent over holidays not fully booked, now under police review.

Caribbean Music Awards in T&T: Tourism Trinidad Limited says the 4th Annual Caribbean Music Awards will be held Sept. 19, 2026 at NAPA, Port of Spain, with an Elite Weekend Experience expected to draw artistes, fans and industry visitors from across the region and diaspora. Steelpan protection for visitors and buyers: Pan Trinbago announced the Trinidad and Tobago Steelpan Geographical Indication (GI) Board to guide certification and promotion of authentic T&T steelpans. New flights and big brand debut: Super Wings NY is set to open its first Caribbean location in Trinidad and Tobago, launching at Soca Island in Point Fortin during Emancipation Weekend. Energy and gas links with Venezuela: Experts say Venezuelan offshore gas licence activity (Loran/Manatee) could open new pipeline gas opportunities for T&T and support Atlantic LNG operations. Sports travel support for Tobago schools: SporTT and the Ministry of Sport clarified funding for the Secondary Schools Football League, including support for inter-island travel and accommodation. Great Race weekend update: Despite a yellow alert and rough seas, the powerboat Great Race went ahead; Heatwave won “First to Tobago” and “Fastest to Tobago,” while nine boats didn’t finish. Wildlife on the beach: Stakeholders at Store Bay are urging crowd caution after a leatherback turtle nest was laid near the Great Race route.

Inter-Island Sports Travel Support: SporTT and the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs say they’ve stepped in to cover key Secondary Schools Football League costs—especially air travel and related expenses—so Tobago and Trinidad students can compete fairly, while clarifying that board review and ministerial intervention are separate processes. Tobago Holiday Scam: Five Tobago families report losing over TT$100,000 after paying a travel agent for holidays that weren’t fully booked, and they’ve taken the matter to police. Great Race Weekend Travel Boost: Caribbean Airlines added 1,200 extra seats on the Trinidad–Tobago airbridge for the Great Race period to meet surge demand from spectators. Nature & Beach Safety: Stakeholders at Store Bay in Tobago are urging crowds to watch their step after a leatherback turtle nest was laid near the Great Race area, with concerns the current protection is too small for expected foot traffic. Adventure Tourism Update: New nine-mile hiking and mountain biking trails opened at Fishers Peak State Park (Trinidad, Colorado), adding loop routes for visitors. Steelpan Culture Move: Pan Trinbago announced a Trinidad and Tobago Steelpan Geographical Indication (GI) Board to protect and certify authentic steelpans. Caribbean Music Awards: T&T will host the 4th Annual Caribbean Music Awards on Sept. 19, 2026 at NAPA in Port of Spain, with an Elite Weekend Experience expected to draw regional visitors.

Caribbean Music Awards in T&T: Tourism Trinidad Limited says the 4th Annual Caribbean Music Awards will land in Port of Spain on September 19, 2026 at NAPA, with an Elite Weekend Experience expected to draw regional and diaspora visitors. Steelpan tourism & protection: Pan Trinbago has set up a Trinidad and Tobago Steelpan Geographical Indication (GI) Board to guide certification and protect the “T&T steelpan” name—good news for authentic cultural experiences and buyers. Energy for travellers’ future: Experts say new Venezuelan gas licences could open pipeline gas options for T&T, supporting Atlantic LNG and Point Lisas—an economic boost that can strengthen tourism jobs long-term. Great Race travel boost: Caribbean Airlines added 1,200 extra seats on the Trinidad–Tobago airbridge for Great Race weekend, easing the rush to Store Bay. Tobago beach ecology: Stakeholders are urging crowd control at Store Bay after a leatherback turtle nest was spotted, warning visitors to watch their step. Sports travel logistics: The Ministry of Sport has stepped in to help resolve SSFL inter-island travel issues so Tobago schools can compete in 2026. Solo travel ranking: Travel And Tour World lists Trinidad and Tobago among the top solo destinations in the Americas & Caribbean for 2026, spotlighting safety and culture.