Trying to find out if Trinidad and Tobago widely accepts American Express cards in restaurants and shops and ATMs - any suggestions
Amex acceptance in Trinidad & Tobago is still in its early stages. I’ve used Visa and Mastercard for everything - from grocery stores to bathrooms at Scarborough - all went through. My Amex was repeatedly declined. Even ATMs only dispense with Visa/Mastercard networks. So my tip: use Amex as a backup only, and carry mainstream international cards for daily use.
My Amex worked once at a high-end restaurant in Tobago’s Crown Point, but that's it. Otherwise, ATMs, grocery stores, petrol stations - they all refused it. Only Visa/Mastercard are consistently accepted. Definitely don’t rely on Amex; use it only as a backup for larger hotel or car booking if it gets accepted, but bring something else for day-to-day purchases.
I attempted to swipe my Amex across several cafes and shops in San Fernando and Marabella, but every time the card reader rejected it. Then I tried Visa and it went through with no problem. Amex acceptance is still very limited - only bigger hotels or tourist places might take it. In short, if you're carrying Amex, bring Visa or Mastercard as your backup, or you’ll likely get stuck.
Amex is rare in Trinidad & Tobago. I tried using it at a few restaurants in Port of Spain’s Gulf City Mall and all declined it, though Visa/Mastercard worked fine. Even ATMs only support Visa/Mastercard. Amex might work at a luxury resort or car rental desk, but for everyday spending, stick to Visa or Mastercard as your main card.