Derecho del Turismo en las Américas

1352 DERECHO DEL TURISMO EN LAS AMÉRICAS depends on whether the investor is a local (i.e. a Trinidadian or a Tobagonian) and the type of project. For example, for an international investor to qualify for the tax benefits under the Act, he must invest at least 3.1 million Trinidad and Tobago dollars for tourism infrastructure. For a local investor, the amount that is required to qualify for the same project is only 310,000 TT$ (for the benefit of readers, one TT dollar is worth very roughly seven US dollars. The exchange rates fluctuate over time, so readers are advised to check same before proceeding). Potential international investors would be wise to check on the ability to repatriate both profits, as well as any capital expenditure before making any investments in Trinidad &Tobago, and to receive appropriate assurances (which are usually forthcoming) that they will be allowed to do so. In both Trinidad and 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 and the best and safest places to go than most business people and politicians. Both islands have pleasantly good restaurants which are at an international standard. Even if the service may sometimes be a bit “spotty”, it is generally satisfying on both islands. Local cuisine is available and, again, the local taxi driver is probably the best person to ask on where to go and what to have. There is a bird sanctuary in Trinidad called the Asa Wright Bird Sanctuary, which enjoys an international reputation, and where bird watchers from all over the world go to view and see the wide variety of Caribbean and South American birds (remember that Trinidad is around six miles from the South American mainland and many species of birds sleep in Trinidad, flying across to the mainland to feed during the day before returning to Trinidad). 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 untampered island and the place to go to unwind. Moreover, Trinidad is the birthplace of the famous steelpan, and its Carnival is world‑famous. Many celebrities ranging from Mick Jagger to Halle Berry and everybody in‑between have come down more than once to enjoy and play in the Carnival. This essay does not have the intention to sell Trinidad & Tobago. It is clear that the country is a good place to do business, seeing by the number of international companies that are here (e.g. Hilton International, Hyatt, Marriott, etc.) and have been here for many years. Like everywhere else, there are difficulties and problems, but it is also a worthy place to invest in and make money.