Island Origins Magazine - Fall 2018 by islandsyndicate

CONTENTS Fall | 2018

22 ISLAND GYAL COUTURE

A THOUGHTFUL CONSTRUCTION OF SWIMSUITS AND FEATHERS 2

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SEXY, SAVAGE

DAPPER DOLLARS

CREDITS PUBLISHER Calibe Thompson BRAND STRATEGY David I. Muir BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Allison Hunte EDITOR Sonia Morgan ART DIRECTOR Vladan Dojcinovic CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Shelly-Ann Parkinson Ghenete Wright Muir Howard Campbell Sonia Morgan Monique McIntosh David I. Muir Calibe Thompson

HEALTH & BEAUTY Simple Steps to Living Well

CULTURE A Thoughtful Construction of Swimsuits and Feathers

10.

INSPIRATION Tanya Marie: Material Girl

18.

INVEST Dapper Dollars

14. 22. 28. 32. 33.

STYLE & DESIGN Sexy, Savage Island Gyal Couture Beautiful Spaces The List: Eye-Catching Accessories The List: Home Décor

34.

TRAVEL Haute Hospitality

40. 42. 44.

TASTE THE ISLANDS Restaurant Review: Swirl Wine Bistro Recipes: My Modern Caribbean Kitchen Restaurant Listing

46.

EVENT CALENDAR

48.

FINAL THOUGHT The Perfect Fit

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Richard Lecoin David I. Muir Jamie Bruce @royaleyez Kevin Anthony Everet Laing Andrew Thomas Ted Moore ON THE COVER: The Style Issue Designer and stylist Tanya Marie embraces her “Fashion Freedom”. She’s wearing one of her own creations, an example of how she shapes frayed and imperfect fabrics into flowing, island-infused works of art. Photo by Richard Lecoin. Hair by Simone Hylton of Natural Trend Setters. Makeup by Debbie Parent @changingfaces_beauty Copyright © 2018 by Island Syndicate. All rights reserved. Island Origins Magazine is published by Island Syndicate. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a review. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed “Attention: Permissions Coordinator,” at Island Syndicate, 1310 SW 2nd Ct #209, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312. Printed in the United States of America. Island Origins Magazine ℅ Island Syndicate 1310 SW 2nd Ct #209 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 417-812-5663 | islandoriginsmag.com support@islandsyndicate.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY // STEPS TO LIVING WELL

SIMPLE STEPS TO LIVING WELL WRITER DR MICHELLE MORRISON PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

I’VE BEEN PRACTICING INTERNAL MEDICINE FOR OVER 20 YEARS, AND I’M STILL SURPRISED THAT PEOPLE THINK THEY NEED TO MAKE TEDIOUS, EARTH SHATTERING LIFE CHANGES TO ACHIEVE BETTER HEALTH. THE TRUTH IS, SIMPLE CHANGES CAN MAKE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE NOT JUST TO HOW LONG WE LIVE, BUT TO HOW “WELL” WE LIVE. I DON’T WANT TO BE A BOARD-CERTIFIED, state-sanctioned pill pusher. With small adjustments to eating and activity habits, I’ve helped patients control high blood pressure, diabetes, acid reflux, obesity, and other common conditions as much as possible, without prescribing medication. You too can get started improving your health with these three easy steps. IDENTIFY A NEGATIVE HABIT AND TAKE STEPS TO BREAK IT Most of us have at least one. It might be sweets, alcohol… any number of things. If your morning habit is grabbing a café-latté-mocha-frappé, maybe you should have peppermint tea instead. If you have two glasses of wine a day, you could start by having only one, then you might reduce that to only four times a week, and so on. The bottom line is that you don’t have to be perfect, you just have to do better.

MAKE BETTER FOOD CHOICES—BECAUSE, YES, YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT I often tell my patients, if you’re driving a Ferrari and you put bad gas in it, it’s still going to leave you on the side of the road. My rule of thumb is keep it simple. Use whole foods—carrots, garlic, tomatoes—and foods with ingredients you can pronounce. Limit your intake of processed foods. Even if your budget doesn’t allow you to buy organic, free-range, wild caught foods, you can still choose the best meats, veggies, and produce your money can buy. Try to get at least two servings of fruits and vegetables daily, and drink water… lots of it!

MOVE! YOUR HEALTH DEPENDS ON IT They say sitting is the new cancer, and it’s not far from the truth. When you’re sitting in one spot for extended periods, it changes how your eye muscles work, how you use your body, your hips, your neck. It even affects circulation in your legs and your heart. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking through the hallway at work for five- or 10-minute intervals is a great start. In my office, people who work in the back, print in the front, and vice versa, forcing them to get up and move. Another good habit is to drink lots of water; that way you have to take more bathroom breaks.

You don’t have to join a gym or start crossfit training, you just have to try to get in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise three to four times a week. The first step to better health is putting yourself on your to-do list. Make these simple changes, stick to them, and you’ll be on your way to a healthier you. Dr Michelle Morrison is a board-certified internist with a practice in Pembroke Pines, Florida. (See ad on opposite page)

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CULTURE // SWIMSUITS AND FEATHERS

A THOUGHTFUL CONSTRUCTION OF

SWIMSUITS &FEATHERS EACH FEBRUARY, THE BUSTLING STREETS OF PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD ARE TRANSFORMED BY A SWARMING KALEIDOSCOPE OF COLORFUL SEQUINS, FEATHERS, AND GLITTERY, SWEAT-COVERED BODIES. COSTUMED REVELERS AND MASSES OF ONLOOKERS “CHIP” TO THE HEART-POUNDING RHYTHMS OF SOCA MUSIC. IT’S AN ENTRANCING SEA OF TRINI CULTURE THAT SUSPENDS ALL WORRIES, AND BIASES, EVEN JUST FOR THE DURATION OF THE CARNIVAL SEASON.

WRITER SHELLY-ANN PARKINSON PHOTOGRAPHY @ROYALEYEZ

PHOTO: JAMIE BRUCE

A FEW ISLANDS TO THE NORTHEAST, Barbadians celebrate Crop Over, a six to eight weeks-long festival culminating on the first Monday in August with a massive street parade. Masqueraders “jump” to lively soca music in a blowout fi nale on Spring Garden Highway in the capital city, Bridgetown. And, on Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year’s Day, Bahamians “rush” down Bay Street, Nassau, entranced by the Junkanoo music played with goatskin drums, horns, cowbells, conch shells, and other locally made instruments. A few years ago, they added a pre-Lenten

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celebration, the Bahamas Carnival, to their event roster. Each celebration has a different origin, but all share a common thread of colorful, meticulously designed costumes. According to media personality and carnival enthusiast Vanessa James, whose documentary Carnival to the World is set for release in 2019, during slavery “Africans were not allowed to participate in the celebrations (of their masters) and thus rioted and forged their own celebrations. They had their own festivals and made their own costumes and sent their messages (of resistance and rebellion) through the seamstresses who designed their costumes.” Participants used costumes and songs to challenge the status quo, and through satire, mocked their masters openly. Costume designers today continue to play an integral role in carnival, creating vibrant artwork with spandex and feathers, using writhing human bodies as their canvas. It is worth noting that the satire in song has also stood the test of time.

 EXHIBITING ARTISTRY Costume-making for The Bahamas’ Junkanoo bands is a little different than their other Caribbean counterparts. For starters, participants—both children and adults—usually make their own costumes using cardboard and crepe paper, then decorate them with feathers, gems, and any other materials they wish, bound only by the limits of their imagination. These costumes are distinctly Ghanaian—Akan to be exact—and feature brightly colored, elaborate masks that can be fierce and whimsical. The results are often stunning. However, for the springtime carnival celebration, costume designers like Anton James provide their services. James is one of the designers of the Bahamas Masqueraders, ensuring that The Bahamas is represented in carnivals at home and abroad. He is currently creating costumes for the Wassi Ones, a Bahamian mas band that will participate in the Miami Broward Carnival in October 2018. James wants local Bahamian designers to have a fair chance to exhibit their artistry. He belives that while costumes have to be beautiful and sturdy structures, they should also be comfortable and easy to wear. Notably, Bahamian carnival costumes feature both the extravagant, bedazzled beadwork and exotic plumage of traditional French costume designs, and West African elements such as horns and cowbells.

 FROM THE STAGE TO THE STREETS Brooklyn-born Bajan clothing designer Nicole Harris has outfitted reggae artists such as Tarrus Riley and Sean Paul. But four years ago she segued into carnival costume design—a natural transition since she was raised in a family from Barbados and was always playing mas (masquerade). She currently has her own section, Nsirrah, themed “Moonshine-Harlem, The Golden Age,” for the Miami Broward Carnival 2018 band Djunction Mas. Harris started planning for this year’s carnival last October, one week after the Miami celebration ended. She creates costumes for every position in the band: back line (little or no feathers), front line (bigger feathers) and a premium and extravagant costume for the section leader. Her costumes range from $300 to $1,500. She also stresses that as flamboyant as her costumes appear, they’re lightweight and allow revelers to move freely.

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WHEN A WOMAN PUTS ONE OF MY DRESSES ON, I DEFINITELY WANT HER TO FEEL CONFIDENT. I THINK CONFIDENCE IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL ASSET.

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FEATURE // SEXY, SAVAGE

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

S ES XA YV A G E

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I HAPPILY STARTED RESEARCH ON THIS ARTICLE BY GOING TO THE SAVAGE X FENTY WEBSITE, WHERE I QUICKLY REALIZED THAT WITH HER NEW LINGERIE LINE, RIHANNA WAS, OF COURSE, DOING SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT FROM THE NORM. I SLOWLY SCROLLED THROUGH, MARVELING AT THE STUNNING, NON-TRADITIONAL SELECTION OF MODELS RIRI’S TEAM CHOSE FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. THE “SAVAGES” BROKE WITH EVERY IMAGINABLE STEREOTYPE—NO STANDARD SIZE 6 AND SMALLER, NO BIAS AGAINST CELLULITE AND STRETCH MARKS. MOST MODELS HAD SOME MEAT ON THEIR BONES… AND THEY WERE ALL SEXY. WRITER GHENETE ‘G’ WRIGHT MUIR PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SAVAGE X FENTY

IN A VIDEO HALFWAY down the front page of the site, a voluptuous woman wearing cream-colored lingerie leans back on a couch with her legs crossed. Her expression—boundless confidence. Much like Fenty Beauty, Rihanna’s makeup line that caters to every skin tone, her lingerie line makes sexiness accessible to real women, not just the perfectly airbrushed “skinny girls.” With each of her models and designs, the Bajan bad gal resists and remixes traditional beauty standards. Rihanna told UK Vogue “It was important to me to push

the boundaries. I want women to feel...confident, sexy, flirty. But most of all, I want them to feel like themselves.” THE UGLY SIDE OF THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY Savage X is a body-positive brand. It’s part of a social movement that embraces the acceptance and appreciation of all body types, regardless of size, color, texture, or other facet of appearance. Take a look at the “Savages”—any woman can see herself in them.

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FEATURE // SEXY, SAVAGE

This powerful move dismantles decades of body-negative messaging, which imposed a rigid standard of beauty accessible only to the fair-skinned, straight-nosed, and slender—unrealistic for most, deadly for some. The statistics on women plagued by eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, for example, are staggering. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, between 85 and 95 percent of people with anorexia are women. And the organization Mirror-Mirror Eating Disorder Help says people with anorexia are 56 times more likely to commit suicide than non-sufferers. This is not to say body negativity and low self-esteem are the only factors causing these disorders, but they do play a part. FOR EVERY MOOD It’s refreshing to see a megastar like Rihanna embrace body positivity, catering to all women and all moods. She divided the collection into four categories: “On the Reg,” a selection of T-shirt bras; “U Cute” for items with lacy details; “Damn,” which includes corsets and bodysuits; and “Black Widow,” crotchless panties. I love how Rihanna widens the scope of lingerie offerings. She says, “You don’t have to stick to one personality with lingerie; it’s fun to play around. You can be cute and playful one week and a black widow next week... I want people to wear Savage X Fenty and think, I’m a bad bitch.” The collection includes bra sizes from 32A to 44DD, underwear ranging from XS to XXXL, and offers several shades of nude—because nude comes in many differ-

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ent shades, right? And it’s reasonably priced. While other major lingerie brands may carry larger sizes, their models are usually one size—stick thin. At Savage X, there’s a clear break from that mold. WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING In a review on the Savage X website, Susan, a size 2x/3x, wrote: “... Thank you for understanding that some of this world is more than a size 12 (sometimes way more)!” There’s a social media frenzy around the brand as well. Chire wrote on Facebook, “Just the range in sizes alone makes me feel included... She’s paid attention to what women look like, what this industry lacks, and addressed it.” “Most fun I ever had shopping for my wife #SavageXFenty,” tweeted G.L. @8plus9. “If she gets pregnant we naming this baby Rihanna.” CONTINUITY With Savage X Fenty and other collections that follow suit, I’m hopeful that more women will see reflections of themselves, and beauty standards will shift over time. It’s also significant that Rihanna launched her line at the height of her career, while she is still an influencer of millions, somehow validating all women, acknowledging we can all be sexy. Through this lingerie line, Rihanna proclaims the ideal body is the real body, and that’s pretty empowering. She emphasises on the website that women should enjoy lingerie for themselves, adding “I want women to own their beauty.” We agree!

INVEST // DAPPER DOLLARS

DAPPER DOLLAR$ IN THE WORLD OF HIGH-END FASHION, TALENT IS THE HEART, BUT MONEY IS VIRTUALLY THE LIFE BLOOD OF BUSINESS. DESIGNERS MUST GAIN INDUSTRY RECOGNITION, MAINTAIN RELEVANCE, AND ESTABLISH AND SUSTAIN FINANCIAL PROFITABILITY TO FIND LASTING SUCCESS. MONEY MAY NOT BE THE MOTIVE, BUT YOU CERTAINLY CAN’T DO HIGH-END FASHION RIGHT WITHOUT LOTS OF IT! WRITER HOWARD CAMPBEL PHOTOGRAPHY RICHARD LECOIN

ISLAND ORIGINS SPOKE TO THE MEN at the helm of two successful fashion houses, Bill Edwards Clothing Company and Garçon Couture, who helped us understand how they thrive tactically and financially in the fiercely competitive high-end fashion industry. GARÇON COUTURE A wealthy clientele offers a great support system for Jean Francillon and Ilbert Sanchez, principals of Garçon Couture, an online menswear company with physical locations in Miami, Florida and Grand Central Station in New York City. Haitian-born Francillon, and Sanchez, a Honduran, met as college roommates and decided to merge their talents for a fashion venture. With Francillon’s sharp eye for stylistic detailing and Sanchez’s expertise in entrepreneurship, Garçon Couture was born, and officially launched on Black Friday in 2016. Their clients can order online, and customize everything from fit, to monogram and lining via digital or in-person consultation. Their finely milled fabrics are sourced from Italy and Shanghai. “Our target market is 65 percent men / 35 percent women between ages 22 and 47,” Francillon explains. “From the experience of designing your piece with one of our team members, to the fit of your garment; these are all hallmarks of the Garçon experience. We create pieces that our competitors are not, because we create with our clients. Perspective is not something you can reproduce or mimic,” he asserts. Their celebrity client list includes actors Rotimi and Omari Hardwick from Power, Caleb Mclaughlin of Stranger Things, Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers, Tahiry Jose of Beautiful Destroyer, and Jamie Hector from The Wire. High profile support does not encourage complacency for Francillon, Sanchez, and their staff of four.

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PHOTO: JEAN FRANCILLON

WE HAVE RETURN CUSTOMERS. THEY RARELY JUST COME AND GET ONE SUIT. OUR WORD-OF-MOUTH CLIENTELE IS GROWING IMMENSELY AND OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE IS AMAZING. “In business, there are always challenges. Sometimes we come across hurdles that require a lot of problem-solving. Being in a climate where we have four seasons, we learn to adapt with the traffic flow depending on what season it is,” Sanchez explains. “Summer is usually our slow season. So… we actually increase our marketing tactics to maintain our profitability margins.” Typical of a growing business, the partners have a tight-knit crew and every cent counts as they seek to expand. “We source the capital ourselves and reinvest our profits into the business. We do all custom tailoring,” Francillon says. Though aggressive social media campaigning is one of Garçon Couture’s main marketing strategies, Francillon points to customer satisfaction as a key element in their growth. “We have return customers. They rarely just come and get one suit. Our word-of-mouth clientele is growing immensely and our social media presence is amazing,” Francillon says. “What you see is what you think you will get, but when you get it, it’s 10 times what you ever imagined. All of our clients leave our showroom with the WOW factor. Always a great feeling.”

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PHOTO: EVERT LAING

INVEST // DAPPER DOLLARS

IN FASHION, IF YOU’RE NOT MANUFACTURING YOU’RE NOT DOING ANYTHING. IT JUST MAKES NO SENSE. BILL EDWARDS Bill Edwards, one of Jamaica’s premier clothing designers, is a highly recognizable name in men’s design on the island. Five years after he began producing custom-made suits, he was approached by Elias “Lee” Issa, a leading hotelier in the island, and owner of a high-end retail clothing chain called Lee’s Fifth Ave. “He told me that we have something special and we should go for branding,” Edwards recalls. “He put our products in his hotels and stores, and that really put Bill Edwards designs out there.” The Bill Edwards line was officially launched in 1997, amidst a financial crisis in Jamaica. It was not the right environment to seek investors, especially for an industry not known for making quick returns. “When I started out, there was hardly any bank that would look at me. It was the 1990s in Jamaica and interest rates were through the roof,” Edwards says. “But we persevered and got assistance… the key thing is, I paid my bills!” He also paid his dues. While raising capital was critical for expanding his fledgling enterprise, it was Issa’s faith in Edwards’ talent, and his access to ideal distribution channels, that created the right environment for the designer to succeed. Within months, his Italian linen suits, shirts, and shorts were displayed in Lee’s stores, as well as shops at his Couples Resort. Today, Bill Edwards clothing is sold throughout the Caribbean—in Barbados, St. Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United States Virgin Islands. Jamaican politicians such as former prime ministers P.J. Patterson and Portia Simpson Miller have worn his creations, as have popular dancehall artists such as Beenie Man. Now 63, the designer says his business turned the corner about 10 years ago when he acquired a factory space in Kingston, Jamaica’s capital. He is currently creative director of a company that employs 32 people, including five designers, and when the demand increases going into the December holiday season, he hires more people. “In fashion, if you’re not manufacturing you’re not doing anything. It just makes no sense,” he says. Edwards travels to fashion conferences throughout the Caribbean and United States, introducing his line of “Caribbean chic” to new interests. He’s also been to Poland and Lithuania to source material for his product.

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FEATURE // ISLAND GYAL COUTURE

Long-sleeve, burlap halter with denim waistband and priest collar. Ripped, hand-painted “couture” jeans.

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Island Gyal

Couture

AT THE INTERSECTION OF ISLAND AESTHETIC AND INTERNATIONAL COUTURE, YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL FIND THE WORK OF JAMAICAN AMERICAN DESIGNER AND STYLIST TANYA MARIE.

PHOTOGRAPHER: RICHARD LECOIN HAIR: SIMONE HYLTON OF NATURAL TREND SETTERS MAKEUP: DEBBIE PARENT @CHANGINGFACES_BEAUTY STYLING: TANYA MARIE DESIGNS MODEL: TANYA MARIE MCLENDON

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FEATURE // ISLAND GYAL COUTURE

LV long-sleeve, open-back halter top. Star-spangled fatigue cargo capris. Cameo by Thor.

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Elegant floor-length, floral halter dress with peekaboo waist cut and burlap waistband.

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FEATURE // ISLAND GYAL COUTURE

Sheer, open-front, belted kaftan with long sleeves and peekaboo waist cut. Denim short shorts.

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Floral summer suit with ripped, floor-length skirt, billowed sleeves and belted bikini halter.

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STYLE & DESIGN // BEAUTIFUL SPACES

BEAUTIFUL

SPACES PHOTO: ANDREW THOMAS

INTERIOR DESIGNER MONIQUE DUARTE KNOWS THE POWER OF TRANSFORMATION—HOW THE RIGHT SILHOUETTE OR FABRIC CAN CHANGE HOW A ROOM LOOKS, AND MORE IMPORTANTLY, HOW IT FEELS. SHE APPLIES THIS KNOWLEDGE TO THE DESIGN OF COLORFUL AND INVITING INTERIORS FOR CLIENTS LOCALLY AND AROUND THE WORLD. WRITER MONIQUE MCINTOSH

DUARTE, WHO IS BASED IN VIRGINIA, traces her creative genes to her Trinidadian mother and grandmother, and their annual family trips to the island’s Carnival. Both women were gifted artists and dressmakers, so “from an early age they would take me to the mas (masquerade) camps, and I got to look at and feel fabric... see the different patterns,” recalls Duarte. Today, you can still see hints of that childhood fascination with color, pattern, and texture in the bespoke design interiors she delivers. Duarte, formerly a corporate marketer for top tech brands like Yahoo and Microsoft, made a personal transition to the world of design when she began decorating her own home. “I fell in love with the process and that feeling of waking up every morning in a beautiful space,” she recalls. “That’s when I learned just how important it is to have a home you enjoy. People live their best lives in a space that truly represents what they are.” She is known for her effortless blend of international styles, from Caribbean coastal to European traditional, and her creative focus is always led by the client. “I believe the space should be an expression of the person you’re designing for,” she explains. “My job is to bring out their vision and personality.”

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PHOTOGRAPHY TED MOORE

This close collaboration may happen during in-person meetings, or remotely through her unique e-design service, which offers custom concepts and curated shopping lists via online consultations. No matter where she designs, nothing beats that final makeover reveal. “It’s a great feeling to have clients walk into the completed space and see their jaw just drop,” muses Duarte. “It’s such a pleasure showing them that we really brought their vision to life.” GLAMOR, MEET FUNCTION For a recent project in New Jersey, Duarte was tasked with injecting color and glamor into the bedroom, living room and office/lounge area of a new home. The client had just moved into her new home and Duarte says she “wanted a design that would incorporate more color as well as accommodate the items she already had, like her sectional sofa and assorted artwork. She also works from home quite a bit, so she wanted to create an office/lounge area that was functional but also energizing.” The result was a stunning transformation the client absolutely loved.

OFFICE/LOUNGE “The right paint color can completely transform a room. She loves pink, so for the office we went for an accent wall in this peachy, island hue that felt vibrant. We softened it with lots of accessories in gold and creams.“

: BEDROOM “We used a more serene pink for the bedroom, with navy blue accents inspired by this special art piece she wanted displayed in the space.“

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STYLE & DESIGN // BEAUTIFUL SPACES

LIVING ROOM “For the living room, we created a color scheme to suit her existing pieces, all in shades of creams, blues, and blacks, with touches of silver. I look for complimentary colors and styles [to complete the design]. In the living room, the cream leather sofa and silver end tables felt so contemporary, so I knew I wanted to stay in that realm, but bring in different colors and textures.“

TIPS FROM THE DESIGN PRO

RUG/ACCENT MIRRORS “The window treatments add softness, while the artwork and that huge accent mirror bring in that metallic element for that classic, chic look. The main accent wall in blue also opens up the whole room, and pulls the blue hues from the rug, which helps tie the whole room together.“

We spoke more with the designer about her favorite transformation tricks, from selecting color schemes to figuring out what to do with Grandma’s dining table.  What are your favorite hues to work

with? I am a color person but I like a clean palette, so I love coastal colors—that turquoise family of cool greens and blues. Those colors are so relaxing, and clients tend to like these colors too, because you can do so much with them. On the flipside, I love vibrant colors too, like oranges and pinks.  Name your go-to accessories for completing a room. The right lighting can transform a room. Tall floor lamps with big lampshades are really popular right now. Plants also add such life to a room, especially if you’re looking to create that coastal feel. And I love using wall mirrors. They come in all different shapes and sizes, and make spaces seem bigger.  Any advice on what to do with family antiques (like those heavy mahogany pieces from your Caribbean grandma)? Those handmade pieces have such a special quality that’s just timeless. So don’t feel you need everything brand new to feel contemporary. Mix and match different pieces from different eras, and have fun with it.

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ACCESSORIES “I love those little touches, like the simple vases of flowers and decorative wall mirrors. They help soften the rooms and create a nice balance.“

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T HE LIST EYECATCHING ACCESSORIES

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PASCALE THEARD CREATIONS

Meet “Sac Ayiti Nan Kè’m”, a sophisticated casual tote in soft, luxe leather, embellished with an embroidered logo, thoughtfully handworked by Haitian artisans.

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ARTHUR & LIVINGSTON

Bold, dainty, and chunky statement jewelry, all uniquely handcrafted in Barbados and the U.S. with semi-precious stones in vibrant, island-chic hues.

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From $30 - $98 arthurandlivingston.com

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IF EYE EVER

A trend-setting form of self expression conceived by Jamaicanborn designers, these lensless frames are hand-wrapped with African textiles in bold, geometric patterns and vibrant colors, creating unique art pieces for your face. $40 - $60 ifeyeever.com

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FABRICE TARDIEU

Luxury meets street in Haitian designer Fabrice Tardieu’s brand of handcrafted Italian leather sneakers— from smooth to python-embossed high tops and low tops, finished with messaging in handwritten graffiti. From $350 fabricetardieu.com

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T HE LIST HOME DÉCOR



TOUCH BY VLS

Tea Sets, spiked, carved, and finished in natural driftwood handles, bring creative expression and functionality to the table. Each set is meticulously handcrafted in Jamaica. Featured here: electric blue. $200 - $300 touchbyvls.com 

BALISIER CONCEPTS

Designer Aliyyah Brooks creates handmade, Caribbeaninspired home treasures. This wooden Trinidad ‘LOVE’ key rack can be customized for country and color. From $33.58 etsy.com/uk/shop/BalisierConcepts

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DESERT SAGE

Hand-poured, 100% natural soy candles made with fresh tropical fruits and spices deliver refreshing fragrances to your living spaces. Footprints Foundation receives 15% of sales to help women and babies worldwide. $35 desert-sage.co



A MARIE ART

12” x 18” throw pillow by Jamaican artist Alicia Thomas features vinyl print of her abstract works, with solid black cotton back. Zipper allows for easy cleaning. Featured here “Slyph.” $45 instagram.com/ amarieartja



KLAWDIA PROIA

Haitian-made ceramics are fashioned into functional art for the home, including bowls, platters, and covered vessels. Featured here - “Romulus and Remus.” $750 klawdia.com

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TRAVEL // HAUTE HOSPITALITY

HAUTE HOSPITALITY

WRITER MONIQUE MCINTOSH PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SECRET BAY HOTEL

EMBRACING LOCAL MATERIALS, HISTORICAL TRADITIONS, AND CLIMATECONSCIOUS INFRASTRUCTURE, THE CARIBBEAN HOTEL INDUSTRY OFFERS AN IMPRESSIVE SELECTION OF RECREATIONAL HAVENS ARTFULLY DESIGNED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE REGION’S NATURAL BEAUTY AND AMENITIES.

FAR FROM THE COOKIE-CUTTER BUILDINGS WITH HERMETICALLY-SEALED SUITES, BASIC POOLS, AND GENERIC “TROPICAL” DÉCOR THAT YOU MAY FIND IN SOME QUARTERS, THERE ARE ARCHITECTURAL OASES THROUGHOUT THE ISLANDS, WORTHY OF FERVENT INSTAGRAM LOVE. FOR THOSE EQUALLY AWED BY SWOOPING ROOFLINES AND OCEAN PANORAMAS, CHECK OUT OUR LIST OF GORGEOUS RESORTS WITH LEGIT ARCHITECTURAL PEDIGREES. 34

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SECRET BAY HOTEL  ST. JOHN, DOMINICA Dotting the deep Dominican rainforest with dramatic cliff views, the eco-resort Secret Bay lives up to its moniker, with an elegant series of villas and bungalows offering complete seclusion among the treetops. Conceived by famed Venezuelan architect Fruto Vivas, each luxe cabin is a work of masterful design. “We wanted guests to feel a sense of harmony within the natural environment, so we aimed to create that experience by blending the indoors with the outdoors,” Vivas says. The structures resemble fanciful treehouses, completely clad in Guyanese hardwood and elevated from the ground by modernist concrete pillars to harness the refreshing sea winds. Inside, the tropical hardwood continues—from the plank flooring to the vaulted ceilings, while expansive windows, verandas, and balconies perfectly frame vignettes of the outdoors. The design, Vivas notes, allows “guests to feel the crosswinds, smell the aroma of the forest, and embrace a sense of freedom.” The property’s sleek infinity pools and winding pathways beckon guests to leave their villas and explore. “Dominica is an amazing tropical paradise, and the elevation allows Secret Bay to be integrated with the external space so the landscape can penetrate the interior seamlessly.” Ever mindful of preserving the ecosystem, the resort was built by hand, using sustainably-sourced woods, and each structure was carefully placed, avoiding as much land-clearing as possible. The result—a resort experience submerged in lush rainforest.

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TRAVEL // HAUTE HOSPITALITY

PARK HYATT ST. KITTS

 BANANA BAY, ST. KITTS & NEVIS PHOTOS: COURTESY OF PARK HYATT ST. KITTS The fusion architecture of Park Hyatt St. Kitts, opened in 2017, bucks the trend of unremarkable hotel chain design, with a contemporary aesthetic inspired by the island’s historic building style, particularly its sugar plantations—from palatial great houses to modest barns. The expansive property, overlooking Christophe Harbor, includes 126 rooms, three acclaimed restaurants, a wellness sanctuary, and the first Caribbean location of the renowned Miraval Life in Balance Spa. Rooms and suites are housed in classic gable-roofed structures, with special suites featuring private sundecks and views of neighboring

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Mount Nevis. Its interiors boast a clean, white-washed style, with paneling and ceiling beams—a stark contrast to the historic opulence of the public spaces. The extraordinary Rampart terrace pairs infinity pools with massive arches built from local stone, invoking the aged stonework of nearby colonial fortress, Brimstone Hill. This stonework continues to the spa and wellness retreat’s replica sugar mill, providing an idyllic spot for yoga and meditation, with views of the sky from the circular opening above. Even Park Hyatt’s three restaurants boast their own architectural distinction. The Fisherman’s Village recalls fishing huts and berths with its thatched roofs and open-air dining, while the exposed stone and peaked ceilings of the Stone Barn gourmet restaurant echoes the structures once used to protect crops during the rainy season. As the resort’s epicenter, with a restaurant, rum bar, library, and conservatory, The Great House takes inspiration from grand plantation houses, incorporating high ceilings and an abundance of verandas.

EL BLOK

 VIEQUES, PUERTO RICO PHOTOS: COURTESY OF EL BLOK There is a large and imposing edifice nestled among the sleepy beach bungalows in the picturesque town of Esperanza, Vieques, a small island off the coast of Puerto Rico. This stunning modernist retreat, El Blok hotel, unites minimalistic design with the Caribbean’s organic beauty. “The experience of this hotel is not about being in a pastiche or alien notion of a Caribbean that does not exist,” says El Blok’s San Juan-based architect Nataniel Fúster of Fuster + Architects. “It’s about radically embracing, reimagining and celebrating our reality…to celebrate our intense natural light, to take advantage of the open and uninterrupted spaces, and to create a tension between the user and the surroundings.” El Blok may have raw, Brutalist bones, but its waves of gleaming white concrete echo the surrounding coastline. Inspired by the permeability of coral reefs, the façade also features moveable, perforated panels that “act like membranes,” says Fuster, providing the protection of hurricane shutters, while filtering light that casts intricate shadows in an equally striking interior. Its circular lobby is retro-modern, and its curvaceous rooms are balanced with streamlined décor. The hotel also includes subtle nods to classic Spanish-Caribbean architecture, with col-

orful tilework and an open atrium that circulates fresh air and light. Completed in 2014, El Blok is not just celebrated for its distinctive design, its reinforced structure weathered 2017’s Hurricane Maria without significant damage. The hotel grounds played an active part in the island’s recovery and has become a place of refuge for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its lively (and legendary) rooftop, with an infinity pool, entertainment space, and uninterrupted ocean vistas.

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TRAVEL // HAUTE HOSPITALITY

TRIDENT CASTLE AND HOTEL

 PORT ANTONIO, JAMAICA PHOTOS: COURTESY OF TRIDENT CASTLE AND HOTEL Turn a certain corner around Pegg Point in Port Antonio, Jamaica and you’ll suddenly be greeted by a fairytale castle, complete with towering turrets, Juliet balconies, and a grand staircase leading downward to the sea. It is bright white, majestic, and—if you’re seeing it for the first time—totally unexpected. Designed by Jamaican architect Earl Levy as a private residence, which eventually became his own home, Trident Castle captures the old-world elegance of classic British Colonial architecture. The grandiose banquet hall has 47-foot ceilings, neo-classical accents and a checkerboard floor. The Castle’s glamorous entertainment spaces also include a traditional dining room featuring regal arches and decorative plaster friezes, as well as sweeping terraces with iconic black-and-white tilework. Built in the 1980s, the castle now serves as an exclusive venue for weddings and other special events, and at times as a vacation retreat for Hollywood stars and music royalty. Nestled on the same property is the luxurious Trident Hotel, which Levy originally designed. In 2012, after both buildings came under new ownership, Kingston-based architect Vidal Downing and his team at Atelier Vidal remodeled the hotel. In a nod to Trident Castle’s traditional architecture, the team sought to marry the boutique hotel’s classic style with a more contemporary sensibility. The goal, Downing says, “was to change how the building related to the outdoors. We wanted to reconnect you to the view, stripping away any distractions.” The new exteriors mirrored the castle’s Jamaican Georgian architecture, with gabled roofs and symmetrical wings, but entrances and openings were expanded to “always bring your eyes back to the ocean,” he adds. The overhaul incorporated elements of tropical contemporary design with sleek façades—a minimalist style that continues to the modern terraces with infinity pools.

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TASTE THE ISLANDS // RESTAURANT REVIEW

SWIRL WINE BISTRO WRITER DAVID I. MUIR PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

AFTER MULTIPLE REFERRALS FROM FELLOW FOODIES, AND HAVING SAMPLED THEIR FARE AT LOCAL EVENTS, I DECIDED IT WAS TIME TO VISIT SWIRL WINE BISTRO, A DELIGHTFULLY QUAINT RESTAURANT TUCKED AWAY IN COCONUT CREEK, FLORIDA. “WE WANTED IT TO BE A FUSION RESTAURANT. Flavors of the Caribbean but not necessarily Caribbean food,” says Chef Judith Able, who opened Swirl Wine Bistro with her husband Mike in March 2017. With degrees in culinary art and management, Chef Judith has successfully owned and managed a Kingston, Jamaica restaurant, and has operated as a caterer in Florida for over a decade. Swirl offers a relaxing, inviting ambience ideal for small groups, a date, or even a solo gastronomic experience. Its walls are littered with original art hung by local artists and they play an eclectic mix of music in the dimly lit dining area. I started with a true comfort dish, the Pumpkin Risotto, prepared with real pumpkin from Jamaica. Topped with a generous helping of scallions and sliced parmesan cheese, the small bowl appeared to host more of a bisque. It was love at first taste—a warm, delightful pumpkin flavor with the consistency of thick and creamy mac n’ cheese. Next, it was time to try the Pork Belly Tacos. The layers of flavors, textures, and sauces in this dish are worthy of a celebration! The pork is well-seasoned and remains tender and juicy with a crispy, braised exte-

SNAPPER ESCOVITCH

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PORK BELLY TACOS

rior. Inside the soft taco shells is a base layer of seasoned, moist red cabbage. Then, atop the pork pieces is a simple coleslaw with an extra drizzle of green sauce. Just perfect. For the main course, I opted for the Snapper Escovitch instead of the signature Oxtail Ravioli my friends recommended. The escovitch sauce was a mildly peppered mix of pickled carrots, onions, and micro-greens, with a very appropriate surprise of okras. It topped my pan-seared, deboned snapper, which laid atop the “converted bammy,” to create Chef Judith’s play on the French croquette. Unlike the crisp, meatstuffed rolls however, she uses Jamaican cassava flatbread, fried crunchy on the outside and still gooey on the inside. I ended my meal with Swirl’s Chocolate Bread Pudding served with fruit in an appealing plate, garnished with fruit drizzles. Made with croissants, this bread pudding is not too sweet, not too moist, and has genuine chocolate bits. Even the whipped cream is made from scratch onsite. Swirl Wine Bistro is definitely on my revisit list. I’ve seen a few musttry menu items, so maybe one night soon I’ll be back in there enjoying “cowfoot by candlelight.”

PUMPKIN RISOTTO

CHOCOLATE BREAD PUDDING

TASTE THE ISLANDS // RECIPES

RECIPES FROM MY MODERN CARIBBEAN KITCHEN

“My Modern Caribbean Kitchen,” the ﬁrst cookbook by Virgin Islander and Olympic boxer-turned-chef, Julius “The Chef” Jackson, is described as a blend of traditional Caribbean cuisine, unexpected twists, and unforgettable ﬂavor. It’s a fresh take on his favorites in a bright collection of 70 mouthwatering recipes, now available on Amazon.

YIELD: 10 SERVINGS

ess M o N ken c i h C rry

YIELD: 10 SERVINGS INGREDIENTS • 1 salted ham bone • 2 lb (905 g) salted pork, pig’s tail, pig’s feet, soaked overnight • 3 lb (1.4 kg) spinach, well rinsed • 1½ lb (680 g) okra • 1½ lb (680 g) snapper fillet, diced • 1 large onion, diced • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 5 sprigs thyme, roughly chopped • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper • 3 tbsp (42 g) unsalted butter • Salt and pepper INSTRUCTIONS Boil the salted ham bone in 3 quarts (2.8 L) of water with the

INGREDIENTS • 3 lb (1.4 kg) bone-in chicken pieces (wings, thighs, drumettes) • ½ cup (120 g) desired poultry seasoning • 3 tbsp (35 g) curry powder • 6 potatoes, diced • ½ lb (225 g) carrots, cut in half lengthwise and sliced • 2 large onions, julienned • 1 cup (100 g) desired curry powder INSTRUCTIONS Season the chicken with the poultry seasoning and 3 teaspoons of curry

salted pork for 45 minutes. At this point, taste the water to test for saltiness. If the water is too salty, add 1 more quart (946 ml) of water to the pot. Boil until the pork is tender, about 1 hour. Remove the pork and set aside, but leave the ham bone in the pot. Then add all of the remaining ingredients, except the butter, salt and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil. Once the water boils, lower the heat to a simmer, add the pork back to the pot and simmer, covered, for 45 minutes. Finally, add the butter and stir well. Salt and pepper to taste. Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving hot.

VISIT WWW.TASTETHEISLANDSTV.COM FOR OUR INTERVIEW WITH JULIUS “THE CHEF” JACKSON. 42

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powder, then refrigerate overnight or for at least 5 hours. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Evenly divide the chicken, potatoes, carrots and onions between two separate baking pans. Sprinkle half of the curry powder into each pan, then mix very well. Cover the pans with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and flip the chicken over. Place back in the oven and bake for another 45 minutes, leaving it uncovered this time. Turn off the oven and let the chicken sit for 15 minutes. Remove and serve hot with steamed white rice!

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TASTE THE ISLANDS // RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

RESTAURANT

LISTING IN SOUTH FLORIDA

AVERAGE COST PER PERSON BEFORE DRINKS, TAX AND TIP. $ Under $10 / person $$ Under $20 / person $$$ Under $40 / person $$$$ Over $40 / person 925 NUEVO’S CUBANO’S | $ Cuban Serving succulent roast pork and delicious sandwiches. 925 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale ALBERTE’S RESTAURANT I $$ Haitian Unique and authentic Caribbean dishes, with live music on Fridays and Saturdays. 1201 NE 38th St, Oakland Park albertesrestaurant.com

ALEXSANDRA’S CARIBBEAN CAFE | $$ Caribbean, Jamaican Soak up some sun while enjoying their famous jerk chicken sandwich and patties. 235 E Commercial Blvd, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea ALI’S ROTI SHOP | $ Caribbean, Indian, Vegetarian Tiny counter-serve joint dishing up Trinidadian comfort food like doubles & aloo pie. 303 S State Road 7, Plantation LA BELLE JACMELIENNE CAFE | $$ Haitian Haitian decor and friendly staff serving up a wide array of Haitian cuisine. 3328 South University Dr, Miramar

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BAHAMA GRILL | $$ Bahamian Indoor / outdoor dining, with Bahamian favorites smoked pork, baby-back ribs and grilled conch. 7619 N State Road 7, Parkland bahamagrill.com

BAMBOO SHACK | $$ Bahamian Quick-service restaurant serving snacks and traditional Bahamian items. 18450 NW 2nd Ave, Miami Gardens BAHAMIAN REEF SEAFOOD RESTAURANT |$$$ Seafood Low key and casual with colorful interior. 7836 NW 44th St, Sunrise EL BOHIO DE MAMA | $$ Dominican Family style restaurant offering music, mofongo, shrimp and dancing. 2181 State Road 7, Margate

CALYPSO RESTAURANT & RAW BAR | $$ Caribbean Try their Caribbean-style seafood and Jamaican Jerk and curry dishes. 460 S Cypress Rd, Pompano Beach

CONCH KRAWL CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT | $$ Bahamian, Seafood Enjoy traditional Bahamian and other Caribbean dishes. 2600 S University Dr #106, Miramar

calypsorestaurant.com

DONNA’S CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT | $$ Jamaican Authentic Jamaican food all day, plus cocktails and Sunday brunch. 9 locations around South Florida. 5434 N University Drive, Lauderhill

CHEF CREOLE | $$ Haitian Simply delicious signature Haitian seafood. 200 NW 54th St, Miami, FL chefcreole.com

CLIVE’S CAFE | $ Jamaican Popular spot for jerk chicken and curry goat. 5890 NW 2nd Ave, Miami clivescafe.com

COLADA | $ Cuban Family-owned bakery serving savory and sweet Cuban treats and other Cuban cuisine. 525 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale coladahouse.com

donnascaribbean.com

HAVANA 1957 | $$ Cuban Quick bites in a buzzing backdrop with Havana memorabilia 405 Espanola Way, Miami Beach havana1957.com ISLAND FUSION GRILL | $$ Jamaican, Cuban Jamaican, Cuban, Asian and Creole flavors with seafood and vegetarian options 4811 S State Rd 7, Davie, FL 33314 islandfusiongrill.com

DUTCH POT JAMAICAN RESTAURANT | $$ Jamaican Authentic Jamaican cuisine. 111 N State Rd 7, Plantation dutchpotrestaurants.com

FIERY IRIE | $$ Caribbean All your favorite authentic Jamaican dishes 100 S Flamingo Rd, Pembroke Pines fieryirie.com

LC ROTI SHOP | $ Indian, Vegetarian Cash-only eatery, serving Caribbean eats & housemade roti with pepper sauce. 19505 NW 2nd Ave, Miami LITTLE HAVANA | $$ Cuban Authentic Cuban Cuisine 12727 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami littlehavanarestaurant. com

DON ARTURO RESTAURANT | $$ Cuban Serving traditional recipes & drinks in kid-friendly environment. 1198 SW 27th Ave, Fort Lauderdale donarturorestaurant.com

CONCH HEAVEN | $$ Bahamian Lots of conch based comfort foods, with locations in Miami, Plantation and Atlanta 11275 NW 27th Ave, Miami conchheaven.com

FINLEY’S BAHAMIAN RESTAURANT | $$ Bahamian Try their breakfast served with Johnny cakes or grits, lunch specials daily 2710 W Atlantic Blvd, Pompano Beach finleysbahamianrestaurant.com

LOCALICIOUS JAX ICE CREAM | $ Ice Cream Old fashioned, hand made ice cream including Caribbean flavors. 4220 NW 12th St, Lauderhill

JAMAICA KITCHEN | $$ Jamaican Known for their extra spicy beef patties 8736 SW 72nd St, Miami www.jamaicakitchen.com

JOY’S ROTI DELIGHT | $$ Trinidadian, Indian Counter serve cafe with Indian inspired Caribbean cuisine. 1205 NW 40th Ave, Lauderhill joysrotidelight.com

JUANA LA CUBANA CAFE | $ Cuban Cuban sandwiches & dishes like ropa vieja & roast pork. 2850 SW 54th St, Fort Lauderdale juanalacubana.com

LAS OLAS CAFE | $ Cuban Freshly squeezed juices and Cuban sandwiches. 644 6th St, Miami Beach lasolascafesb.com

LAS VEGAS CUBAN CUISINE | $$ Cuban, Latin American A dine in hot spot with 16 South Florida locations offering Cuban meals and cocktails. 2807 E Oakland Park Blvd, Ft. Lauderdale Lasvegascubancuisine.com

EL MAGO DE LAS FRITAS | $ Cuban Cozy spot for Cuban burgers. 5828 SW 8th St, Miami elmagodelasfritas.com

JUANA’S LATIN SPORTS BAR & GRILL | $$ Latin Casual Dominican, Puerto Rican & American sports bar and grill. 11602 City Hall Promenade, Miramar juanaslatinsportsbar.com

LALLO’S | $$ Caribbean, Indian Serves a wide variety of roti and the fresh catch of the day on a Friday. 1401 NW 39 Terrace, Lauderhill lalloscaribbeanrestaurant.com

MANGU CAFE RESTAURANT | $$ Dominican Bare-bones Dominican spot serving pernil, goat stew, beer & wine. 2007 W 62nd St, Hialeah MARIO’S CATALINA RESTAURANT | $$$ Cuban Dine in relaxing ambiance, eating Cuban and Spanish cuisine. 1611 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale

TAP TAP | $$$ Haitian Colorful interior and authentic creole cuisine. 819 5th St, Miami Beach

ORTANIQUE ON THE MILE | $$$$ Caribbean Fusion Island flavors, local ingredients, creative cocktails, tropical-themed decor. 278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables ortaniquerestaurants.com

REED’S CATERING & CONCESSIONS | $$ Seafood, Caribbean Late night seafood truck, with a specialty of conch salad. 12203 NW 27th Ave, Miami

PADRINO’S CUBAN CUISINE | $$ Cuban Serving the best mariquitas, mojito and flan for the past 40 years. 1135 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale padrinos.com

REGGAE PON THE GRILLE | $$ Jamaican, Caribbean Buffet style dining offering tasty Jamaican dishes. 8032 W McNab Rd, North Lauderdale reggaeonthegrille.com

TROPICAL KRAVE | $$ Caribbean, Seafood Enjoy great food and great wines, indoor or outdoor. 222 Commercial Blvd, Ste 103, Lauderdaleby-the-Sea

PANFRIDAYS | $$ Jamaican Try their popular jerk chicken and shrimp pasta. 7183 W Oakland Park Blvd, Lauderhill

SAZON CUBAN CUISINE | $ Cuban Tasty Caribbean cuisine and live weekend entertainment. 7305 Collins Ave, Miami Beach

VERSAILLES | $$ Cuban, Latin American Serving tasty Cuban cuisine and culture for four decades. The gauge of the community’s pulse. 3555 Southwest 8th Street, Miami

panfridays.com

POLLO EL COJIDO | $$ Dominican Delicious mofongo, quesadilla and sancocho. 5859 N University Dr, Pompano Beach POLLO TIPICO | $ Dominican Traditional Dominican dishes in a laid back atmosphere 5011 State Road 7, Fort Lauderdale PUERTO SAGUA RESTAURANT | $$ Cuban Known for their soup and oxtail stews 700 Collins Ave, Miami Beach

taptapsouthbeach.com

sazoncubancuisine.com

versaillesrestaurant.com

SHALAMA’S HALAL ROTI SHOP | $ Caribbean, Indian Casual ethnic take out spot with authentic roti, curries and pepper sauce. 1432 State Road 7, Margate

YARUMBA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE | $$ Dominican Try their traditional stews or Churrasco with live music. 4740 NW 167th St, Miami Gardens yarumbarestaurant.com

SHEIKS BAKERY & CAFE | $ Caribbean, Indian East & West Indian food including halal meats, spices & baked goods. 154 University Dr, Pembroke Pines sheiksbakery.com

ZEST MIAMI | $$$ Caribbean fusion A modern restaurant & market with creative island fare. 200 S Biscayne Blvd, Miami zestmiami.com

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ENTERTAINMENT // EVENT CALENDAR

EVENT

CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 9/29

Seven WHERE: The Arts Recreation Center, 675 Ali Baba Avenue, Opa-locka, FL 33054 ADMISSION: $26 - $80 INFO: eventbrite Cooler Fete with live performance by Iwer George. Hosted by the Wassi One. 9/29 - 10/7

Miami Broward One Carnival WHERE: Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds, 10901 SW 24 St , Miami, FL 33165 ADMISSION: $10 - $100 INFO: miamibrowardcarnival.com Starting with Junior Carnival on September 29th, culminating in the road march on October 7, a week of activities with soca music, food, dancing and revelry representing the whole Caribbean.

OCTOBER 10/5

Miami Bacchanal J’ouvert WHERE: Wynwood, Miami, FL 33127 ADMISSION: $15 - $40 INFO: eventbrite 2 water trucks, mud, chocolate, water balloons, water guns and unlimited paint and colored powder!!!! 10/6

Green & White Gala (Nigerian Association) WHERE: Broward College South Campus Auditorium, 7200 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024 ADMISSION: $70

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INFO: nigerianamericanfoundation.com The fundraising gala benefits the organization’s “Kids of Promise” scholarship project and clean water initiative in the United States and Nigeria. 10/25

7th Annual NAAHP Conference WHERE: Florida International University, 11200 Southwest 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199 ADMISSION: $50 - $250 INFO: naahpconference.org The largest conference gathering of Haitian diaspora professionals

NOVEMBER 11/1 – 11/4

BRT Weekend WHERE: Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, 4020 Virginia Beach Drive, Miami, FL 33149 ADMISSION: $30 - $325 INFO: brtweekend.com The ultimate destination day-party series includes 6 uniquely themed events, all-inclusive with free drinks & food, across a multi-day span, in a beautiful resort location. 11/10

Islands In The Park - Caribbean Wine & Food Festival WHERE: One Young Circle, Hollywood, Florida 33020 ADMISSION: $15 - $25 INFO: eventbrite A festival to celebrate all Caribbean Islands, with wine, delicious food, live music, dancing, crafts and regional artwork.

11/11

Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival Florida WHERE: Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84, Sunrise, FL 33326 ADMISSION: $30 - $150 INFO: jerkfestival.com Excite your palate, explore spicy jerk delicacies, and tasty Caribbean cuisine. Enjoy hot music, cultural presentations, and cool vibes. 11/17

Griot Fest WHERE: Sunset Cove Amphitheatre, 20405 Amphitheatre Circle, Boca Raton, FL 33498 ADMISSION: $20 - $225 INFO: eventbrite The biggest Haitian Food Festival in the world.

DECEMBER 12/1

Caribbean Today News Magazine’s 30th Anniversary Celebration WHERE: Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place, Miramar, FL 33025 ADMISSION: $100 INFO: caribbeantoday.com A celebratory reception honoring community leaders, advertisers, non-profit organizations and awarding college scholarships.

A FINAL THOUGHT // THE PERFECT FIT

FINAL THOUGHT

THE PERFECT WRITER CALIBE THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID I. MUIR

FIT

I DON’T GET OUT MUCH, SO LOOKING FABULOUS IS ONLY A CONCERN ONCE OR TWICE A MONTH IN MY WORLD. DUE TO MY OBSESSION WITH WORK, I’VE INTERMITTENTLY AND VERY WRONGLY THOUGHT OF FOOD AS SIMPLY STUFF TO KEEP MY BELLY FULL, EXERCISE AS AN INCONVENIENT DISTRACTION, AND CLOTHING AS JUST FABRIC TO COVER MY BODY. FEELING A DECLINE IN HEALTH, I HAD ALREADY STARTED REWORKING MY THOUGHTS ON THE FIRST TWO. THIS RECENT INTERACTION WITH TANYA MARIE SET ME STRAIGHT ON THE THIRD.

SHE SAID SOMETHING PROFOUND TO ME—that people should “dress the way their soul feels.” I had never thought about it that way, but for real, just like the eyes, what you wear can offer a window to your soul. A person’s style can help him disappear into the background, or make her stand out in a crowd. It can desperately plead for attention, or declare confidence and power. The clothes we choose can speak volumes about how we see ourselves, and how we see the world we interact with. I like to look nice at fancy events of course, but will probably never be an avid fashionista. That said, I know what it feels like to put something on and think “this feels like me.” And I agree that it’s worth investing time in looking on the outside the way you feel, or want to feel, on the inside. There is, for example, a very confident-looking picture that David took of me in a white blazer and red camisole a few years ago. I keep it on my nightstand and look at it frequently, because the image he snapped that day captured the essence of the person I want to be when I grow up. Wardrobe can do that—show you the outward version of what you believe to be your perfect self; the self you want everyone else to see. For me, that is confident and powerful. For you, that may be something else. The hospitality and home accessory designers in this issue incorporate art, nature, color, movement, and light to inspire very specific moods in our surroundings. The clothing and accessory designers have projected swag, joie de vivre, sex, and revelry in men’s, women’s, and carnival clothing, and even the glasses and shoes their customers wear. What they create can truly bring out the YOU in you. Tanya Marie shared that she loves rips and frayed edges in her clothing because, she says, “nothing is perfect but God.” I understand the sentiment, but in the search to reconcile the outside of ourselves with the soul inside, I think it’s worth the effort it takes to find our own perfect fit.

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