Trini pays high Tobago tourist rate

THE EDITOR: I recently went to Tobago, accompanied by my wife and two teenaged daughters, who incidentally had never visited our sister Isle, even though they had been to many foreign countries. My intent was to visit as many of the sites listed the Ins & Outs of Trinidad and Tobago as places of interest. One of these sites was an eco-tourist attraction call Footprints. After consulting a map of Tobago attractions available at the hotel’s front desk, we headed in the direction of Plymouth. There were well defined signs all along the way through scenic hills and valleys, but was disappointed on reaching our destination, the facility was under repair.

The only thing that was operational was a small bar so I ordered four Angostura’s Lemon, Lime and Bitters (LLB). To my horror after consuming this non-alcoholic beverage, I was presented with a bill for $75.90. On enquiring as to the abstruse bill, I was told that I am a tourist from Trinidad and must pay tourist rate. The breakdown was as follows: $15.00 per unit plus 10 percent service charge, plus 15 percent VAT. I enquired what was the cost for locals and was told $5. I am hereby warning all Trinidadian Tourist to Tobago, to enquire about the cost of items before placing their orders. 

RICHARD F G Mc COMIE
Diamond Vale