Laventille, a poor community several miles east of Port of Spain on the island of Trinidad, is the birthplace of the steel pan, an indigenous Trinidadian instrument made from a steel drum. Many of the most renowned steel pan musicians still call Laventille their home. For die-hard fans, Laventille is worth a visit, but it is advisable to use caution as drugs, gangs and murders are sadly as prevalent as the celebrated island music for which the community is known.
The Crowne Plaza is a luxurious, modern hotel located in downtown Port of Spain several miles and a world away from the ghetto community of Laventille. Rooms at the hotel are equipped with satellite TV, wireless and wired Internet, and CD players. The hotel serves free breakfast daily, and the upscale revolving restaurant on the 14th floor serves authentic Indian and international cuisine. Other amenities at the Crowne Plaza include a swimming pool, a fitness center, 24-hour room service and a foreign currency exchange. The piano bar and lounge on the ground floor offers drinks and entertainment.
Crowne Plaza Hotel
Wrightson Road & London Street P.O. Box 1017
Port of Spain, Trinidad
Trinidad & Tobago
868-625-3361
ichotelsgroup.com
The Hilton is a luxury hotel and conference center located in Port of Spain, just a few short miles from Laventille. Rooms at the Hilton are decorated in a contemporary style. Amenities include flat screen TVs, Internet access and alarm clocks with iPod docks. Dining options include a full-service restaurant, a coffee house and two bars that also serve food. The property has a swimming pool, fitness center and a business center.
The Hilton Trinidad
P.O. Box 442
Port of Spain, Trinidad
868-624-3211
hiltoncaribbean.com
The Courtyard is a modern-looking hotel in Port of Spain with 119 guest rooms equipped with amenities that include high-speed Internet, cable TV and air conditioning. The hotel's El Centro restaurant serves international cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Courtyard offers an on-site fitness center, laundry service and a foreign currency exchange. Wireless Internet is available in the public areas, and complimentary coffee is served in the hotel lobby.
Courtyard by Marriott
Port of Spain
Trinidad & Tobago
868-627-5555
marriott.com
