I’m excited to share my experiences with guest houses in Port of Spain, Trinidad. I’ve stayed at quite a few places in this lively city, and I want to give you the real scoop – the good, the bad, and everything in between.
Port of Spain is the capital of Trinidad and Tobago, with about 37,044 people living here in 2024. It’s a busy place, especially during Carnival in February or March. The city is hot and humid year-round, with temperatures usually between 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F).
Guest houses in Port of Spain Trinidad are often cheaper than big hotels and offer a more personal experience. The quality can vary a lot, so it’s important to read reviews carefully.
Most are in residential areas, giving you a taste of local life. While they might not have all the amenities of larger hotels, they make up for it with charm and local flavor.
Now, let’s check out 6 guest houses in Port of Spain I’ve either stayed at or heard a lot about from other travelers.
1. Tonys Guest House: A Quiet Spot in Petit Valley
Tonys Guest House is tucked away in the quiet neighborhood of Petit Valley. It’s a bit far from the city center, but that means you’ll get a peaceful stay away from the hustle and bustle.
| Check-in/out Times | Check-in: 2:00 PM, Check-out: 11:00 AM |
| Nearest Landmark | Queen’s Park Savannah (5.5 km) |
| Languages Spoken | English |
| Payment Methods | Cash only |
| Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 24 hours before check-in |
| Parking | Free private parking available |
| Breakfast Option | Continental breakfast available (TT$50 / US$7.40) |
| Security | 24-hour security camera surveillance |
Getting There and Location
Tonys Guest House is located at Papnis Drive, Petit Valley. It’s about 34 km from Piarco Airport, which takes around 40 minutes by car. They offer an airport shuttle, but it’s not cheap at TT$250 (about US$37) one way. You might save some cash by taking a taxi instead.
The location is pretty far from most tourist spots. Maracas Bay, the nearest beach, is about 15 km away.
If you’re planning to visit the Emperor Valley Zoo, you’re looking at a 30-minute drive. This guest house is best for travelers who want a quiet retreat and don’t mind being away from the city action.
Rooms and What You Get
Tonys Guest House offers three types of rooms: Budget Double Room, Double Room, and Studio. All of them are about 15 m² in size. I stayed in the Studio, which has a small kitchen. It’s handy for whipping up simple meals and saving some money on eating out.
All rooms come with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV. The free WiFi worked well for me, but I’ve heard from other guests that it can be hit or miss.
The rooms are basic but comfortable. Don’t expect luxury here – it’s more about having a clean, simple place to rest your head.
Pros and Cons
Anthony, the owner, is a real highlight. He’s friendly and full of local knowledge. The outdoor fireplace is a nice touch, great for relaxing in the evening and chatting with other guests. The peaceful location is perfect if you want to escape the noise of the city.
On the downside, the distance from the city center can be a pain if you want to explore Port of Spain. The rooms, while clean, are pretty no-frills. Some guests have mentioned that the cleanliness could be improved, so keep that in mind if you’re particular about spotlessness.
2. Caribbean Tourist Villa: Budget-Friendly with a View
If you’re watching your wallet but still want a comfortable stay, Caribbean Tourist Villa is worth considering. It offers basic accommodation with some nice perks, like city views and a pool.
| Property Size | 500 m² |
| Number of Floors | 2 |
| Pets Policy | Not allowed |
| Grocery Delivery | Available (additional charge) |
| Nearest Supermarket | PriceSmart Foods (1.2 km) |
| Security | 24-hour security guard |
| Child Policy | Children of all ages welcome |
| Barbecue Facilities | Available in garden area |
| Early Check-in | Subject to availability (TT$100 / US$15 fee) |
Location and Getting Around
Caribbean Tourist Villa is located at 7 Methuen Street, about 24 km from Piarco Airport. The drive takes around 35 minutes, depending on traffic.
The villa doesn’t offer an airport shuttle, so you’ll need to take a taxi or rent a car. A taxi will cost about TT$180 (US$27).
The location is in a residential area, which gives you a taste of local life. It’s not in the heart of the tourist district, but that means it’s quieter.
You’re about a 20-minute walk from Queen’s Park Savannah and a 10-minute drive from the popular Ariapita Avenue restaurant strip.
Public transport isn’t great in Port of Spain, so you might want to budget for taxis if you stay here. A taxi to the city center costs around TT$30 (US$4.50).
Room Types and Facilities
The villa offers three types of rooms: Quadruple, Double, and Single. The Quadruple Room is the largest at 15 m², while the others vary in size. I stayed in a Double Room, which was basic but clean and comfortable.
All rooms come with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV. The WiFi is free and works well in most areas of the property. There’s also a shared kitchen, which is great for saving money on meals. It’s equipped with a stove, fridge, and microwave.
The standout feature is the year-round outdoor pool. It’s not huge, but it’s perfect for a refreshing dip after a hot day exploring the city. The pool area also has some loungers where you can relax and soak up the sun.
Pros and Cons
The best thing about Caribbean Tourist Villa is the value for money. You get a clean room, a pool, and a decent location for a budget-friendly price. The city views from some rooms are a nice bonus.
On the downside, the facilities are basic. Don’t expect luxury here – it’s more about having a clean, simple place to stay. Some guests have mentioned that the beds are a bit hard, so keep that in mind if you prefer softer mattresses.
The shared kitchen can be a blessing or a curse. It’s great for saving money, but it can get crowded during peak times. If you’re a light sleeper, you might hear noise from other guests using the kitchen.
3. Culture Crossroads Inn: Local Flavor in the City
If you’re after a more authentic Trinidadian experience, Culture Crossroads Inn might be right up your alley. It’s a smaller, more personal place that gives you a real taste of local hospitality.
| Building Type | Converted colonial house |
| Garden Size | 200 m² |
| Breakfast Options | Continental, Vegetarian, Vegan |
| Library | Small collection of local literature |
| Nearby Medical Facility | Port of Spain General Hospital (2 km) |
| Local Tours | Can be arranged through reception |
| Maximum Group Size | 12 people |
| Cultural Events | Weekly local music performances (free for guests) |
Location and Cultural Hotspots
Culture Crossroads Inn is located at 5 Delhi St., about 26 km from Piarco Airport. The inn offers a paid airport shuttle service, which costs about TT$200 (US$30) one way. It’s a bit pricey, but convenient if you’re arriving late or leaving early.
The location is great for exploring Port of Spain’s cultural scene. You’re just a 10-minute walk from Queen’s Park Savannah, which hosts many events throughout the year.
The National Museum and Art Gallery is about a 15-minute walk away, perfect for learning about Trinidad’s history and art.
For food lovers, you’re in luck. The inn is close to some great local eateries. Try Patraj Roti Shop, just a 5-minute walk away, for some delicious Trinidadian roti.
Room Options and Local Touches
Culture Crossroads Inn offers three room types: Superior King Room, King Room, and Deluxe Double Room. All rooms are 17 m², so they’re not huge, but they’re comfortable.
I stayed in a King Room and loved the local touches in the decor. All rooms have air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV. The WiFi is free and works well throughout the property.
What sets this place apart is the attention to detail. You’ll find locally made soaps in the bathroom and artwork by Trinidadian artists on the walls. It’s these little things that make you feel connected to the local culture.
Guest Experiences and Local Insights
The best part of staying at Culture Crossroads Inn is the wealth of local knowledge the staff shares.
The owner, Colin, is a treasure trove of information about Port of Spain. He can help you plan your days, recommend the best local restaurants, and even arrange tours.
There’s a shared lounge where guests often gather in the evenings. It’s a great place to meet other travelers and share tips. Sometimes, the inn hosts small cultural events like local music performances or art exhibitions.
Pros and Cons
The biggest pro of Culture Crossroads Inn is the authentic experience it offers. You’ll get a real feel for Trinidadian hospitality and culture. The location is also great for exploring the city.
On the downside, the rooms are on the small side. If you’re used to spacious hotel rooms, you might find these a bit cramped. Also, while the inn is generally quiet, you might hear some street noise, especially on weekends when there are events in the area.
The lack of an on-site restaurant might be inconvenient for some, but it’s a great excuse to try the local eateries nearby. Just keep in mind that breakfast isn’t included in the room rate, so you’ll need to budget for that.
4. Woodbrook on the Avenue: Home Away from Home
If you’re looking for a more residential experience in Port of Spain, Woodbrook on the Avenue is a great choice. It’s like having your own apartment in the city, which is perfect for longer stays or if you just want more space.
| Property Age | Built in 1950, last renovated 2015 |
| Luggage Storage | Available (free of charge) |
| Nearest Laundromat | Wash & Fold (200 m) |
| Local Transport | Maxi taxis stop nearby |
| Quiet Hours | 10:00 PM – 7:00 AM |
| Kitchen Facilities | Full kitchen in all units |
| Cleaning Service | Weekly for stays longer than 7 nights |
| Welcome Package | Complimentary local snacks and beverages |
Location and Neighborhood Vibe
Woodbrook on the Avenue is at 35 Methuen Street in the lively Woodbrook neighborhood. It’s about 25 km from Piarco Airport, which is a 35-minute drive depending on traffic.
They don’t offer an airport shuttle, so you’ll need to grab a taxi or arrange your own transport. A taxi will set you back around TT$200 (US$30).
The location is one of the best things about this place. You’re right off Ariapita Avenue, which locals call “The Avenue.” This street is packed with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s great for nightlife, but it can get noisy on weekends, so keep that in mind if you’re a light sleeper.
You’re also close to some cool spots:
- Queen’s Park Savannah is about a 15-minute walk away.
- The National Museum is about a 20-minute walk.
- MovieTowne, a big cinema and shopping complex, is a 5-minute drive.
Apartment-Style Rooms and Facilities
Woodbrook on the Avenue offers three types of rooms:
- Queen Studio (23 m²)
- Deluxe Queen Room (18 m²)
- Superior Queen Room (17 m²)
I stayed in the Queen Studio, and it was pretty spacious. All rooms have air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV with streaming services. The WiFi is free and worked well for me.
The best part is that all rooms have some kind of kitchen facility. The Queen Studio has a full kitchen, while the other rooms have kitchenettes. This is great for saving money on meals, especially if you’re staying for a while.
There’s also a shared kitchen if you want to cook bigger meals or socialize with other guests. The property has a nice terrace where you can relax and enjoy the warm Trinidad evenings.
Local Experience and Practicalities
Staying at Woodbrook on the Avenue feels more like living in Port of Spain than just visiting. You can shop at the local markets and cook your own meals if you want.
The staff are really helpful with local tips, like where to find the best doubles (a popular Trinidadian street food) or which fetes (parties) are happening during your stay.
One thing to note: housekeeping isn’t daily here. They’ll clean your room every three days, which is fine for most people but something to be aware of.
Pros and Cons
The biggest pro is the location and the apartment-style rooms. You get more space and freedom than in a typical hotel. The kitchen facilities are a real money-saver, especially in Port of Spain where eating out can get expensive.
On the downside, if you’re looking for hotel-style amenities like a pool or gym, you won’t find them here. The building is also a bit older, so don’t expect super modern decor. Some guests have mentioned that the water pressure in the showers could be better.
5. Hotel Normandie Limited: A Taste of Old Trinidad
Hotel Normandie Limited is a bit of a throwback, giving you a glimpse of what hotels in Port of Spain were like back in the day. It’s got character, but it comes with some quirks too.
| Total Event Space | 465 m² |
| Number of Suites | 5 |
| Pool Dimensions | 15m x 7m |
| Gift Shop | On-site, open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Room Types with Balconies | Executive Rooms and Suites only |
| Currency Exchange | Available at front desk |
| Pillow Menu | Available upon request |
| Business Center | Open 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Local Art Display | Rotating exhibitions in lobby |
Historical Charm and Location
Hotel Normandie is at 10 Nook Avenue in St. Ann’s, about 20 km from Piarco Airport. The drive takes around 30 minutes. They offer an airport shuttle, but it’s not free. It’ll cost you about TT$200 (US$30) one way.
The hotel has been around since the 1930s, starting as a private home before becoming a hotel in the 1950s. You can see this history in the architecture, with its wide verandas and tropical gardens. It’s pretty cool if you’re into that old-school Caribbean vibe.
Location-wise, it’s good but not great. You’re close to the Botanical Gardens (about a 10-minute walk) and the Emperor Valley Zoo (15-minute walk). Queen’s Park Savannah is about a 20-minute walk away. It’s not right in the center of things, but it’s not too far either.
Room Types and Old-World Atmosphere
Hotel Normandie has a range of room types:
- Budget Double Room (20 m²)
- Executive Double Room (35 m²)
- Family Room with Garden View
- Superior Double Room (20 m²)
- Suite with Garden View
I stayed in an Executive Double Room, which was spacious and had a nice balcony overlooking the gardens. All rooms have air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV. The decor is a mix of old and new – think dark wood furniture with modern amenities.
The hotel has an outdoor pool, which is great for cooling off after a day of sightseeing. There’s also a small fitness center if you want to keep up with your workouts.
Dining and Guest Experiences
The hotel has two dining options:
- Cafe Trinidad: Serves local and international cuisine.
- The Small Table Café: Good for light meals and coffee.
I tried Cafe Trinidad for dinner, and it was pretty good. The menu has a mix of Trinidadian and international dishes. Prices are reasonable for a hotel restaurant, with main courses around TT$100-150 (US$15-22).
One cool thing about Hotel Normandie is that they sometimes host cultural events. When I was there, they had a local steel pan band playing one evening. It’s a nice way to experience some Trinidadian culture without leaving the hotel.
Pros and Cons
The best thing about Hotel Normandie is its character. If you’re tired of generic chain hotels, you’ll appreciate the unique atmosphere here. The staff are friendly and helpful, always ready with local tips and advice.
On the downside, the hotel is showing its age in some areas. The plumbing can be a bit temperamental, and some guests have mentioned issues with hot water. The WiFi can be patchy in some rooms, especially those further from the main building.
Also, while the old-school charm is nice, some might find it a bit dated. If you’re looking for sleek, modern accommodations, this might not be the place for you.
6. Reyogee Apartments: Extended Stay Comfort
If you’re planning a longer stay in Port of Spain or just prefer apartment-style accommodation, Reyogee Apartments is worth considering. It offers more space and home-like amenities than a typical hotel room.
| Location | 21 Alberto Street |
| Distance from Airport | 25 km (35-minute drive) |
| Room Types | Two-Bedroom Apartment |
| Price Range | US$80-$100 per night |
| Amenities | Full Kitchen, Washing Machine, Free WiFi, Balcony |
| Star Rating | Not rated |
Location and Neighborhood
Reyogee Apartments is located at 21 Alberto Street, about 25 km from Piarco Airport. The drive takes around 35 minutes, depending on traffic.
The property doesn’t offer an airport shuttle, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport. A taxi will cost about TT$200 (US$30).
The location is in a residential area, which gives you a more local experience. You’re about a 20-minute walk from Queen’s Park Savannah and a 10-minute drive from the popular Ariapita Avenue restaurant strip.
It’s not right in the heart of the tourist area, but that means it’s quieter and you get a feel for everyday life in Port of Spain.
Apartment Features and Layout
Reyogee Apartments offers two-bedroom apartments. Each apartment is spacious, though the exact size isn’t specified. Here’s what you can expect:
- Two bedrooms (one with a double bed, one with single beds)
- Full kitchen with stove, fridge, and microwave
- Living room with a sofa bed
- Bathroom with a shower
- Balcony
- Air conditioning
- Flat-screen TV
- Free WiFi
I stayed here for a week and really appreciated having the extra space. The kitchen is well-equipped, so you can easily cook your own meals. There’s also a washing machine in the apartment, which is super handy for longer stays.
Long-Term Stay Benefits
The apartment setup is perfect for longer stays. You have more space to spread out, and the kitchen helps you save money on meals. The washing machine means you don’t have to pack as many clothes or deal with laundry services.
The property doesn’t offer daily housekeeping, which some people might see as a downside. However, they do provide cleaning supplies if you want to tidy up yourself.
Pros and Cons
The biggest pro of Reyogee Apartments is the space and home-like feel. It’s great for families or groups of friends traveling together. The kitchen and laundry facilities are real money-savers for longer stays.
On the downside, don’t expect hotel-style amenities like a pool or gym. The decor is basic and functional rather than luxurious. Some guests have mentioned that the water pressure can be inconsistent.
Also, while the residential location gives you a more local experience, it means you’re not right in the middle of the tourist areas. You might need to rely on taxis more, especially in the evenings.
Wrapping Up: Choosing Your Port of Spain Stay
So there you have it – six different guest houses in Port of Spain, each with its own character and perks. From budget-friendly guest houses to luxury hotels, there’s something for every type of traveler.
When choosing where to stay, think about what’s most important to you. If you want to be in the heart of the action, places like Kapok Hotel or Woodbrook on the Avenue might be your best bet.
For a more luxurious stay, the Hyatt Regency or Hilton are good choices. And if you’re on a budget or want a more local experience, guest houses like Tonys or Culture Crossroads Inn could be perfect.
