Ins & Outs of Trinidad & Tobago 2020 E-book

THE RECOMMENDED IN-ROOM GUIDE of The Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants & Tourism Association and the Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association In celebration of World Tourism Day 2019, Caribbean Tourism Publications Limited, publisher of the Ins & Outs of Trinidad & Tobago magazine was honoured for its contribution to the development of the hospitality and tourism industry in Trinidad and Tobago by The University of the West Indies (UWI), Department of Management Studies (DMS). Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Ins & Outs of Trinidad & Tobago continues to promote this destination not only through the publication but also through its Social Media platforms. Download the Free Ins & Outs App with extensive listings of restaurants, accommodation, entertainment and much more. See what’s on our Calendar of Events, learn about carnival, touring and sporting events and festivals. Widely distributed through hotel rooms, guesthouses and restaurants, locals also access the publication through merchants, conferences, and business organizations. T&T’s overseas diplomatic missions and World Travel Market form part of the international distribution.

PROJECT CO-ORDINATORS

Patricia Lewis Soraya Gonsalves

ADVERTISING SALES

LAYOUT

Shayam Karim Patricia Lewis Soraya Gonsalves

Patricia Lewis Marie Gurley Betti Gillezeau Christine François Kieran Khan Katherine Mc Donald

DESIGN

EDITOR

PRODUCTION

PROOF READER

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Anna Walcott-Hardy Roslyn Carrington

Tao Howard Miller Publishing Patrice Letren

PUBLISHED BY Caribbean Tourism Publications Ltd. The Film Centre #5 Humphrey Street, St. James Trinidad and Tobago Tel: (868) 622-0738/9 Fax: (868) 622-0426 E-mail: info@insandoutstt.com @ insandoutstt insandoutstt.com

Vanessa Ramtahal

TRINIDAD COVER ARTIST

TOBAGO COVER ARTIST

RoSemary HADEED

KYAWANA SHAW-ABRAHAM

Always artistically inclined, Rosemary Hadeed opted for a degree in Interior Design. After thirty successful years, she transitioned to the use of oils, acrylics and inks, adopted the artist name RoSemary, and used social medial as the springboard to an active career in fine art. RoSemary describes herself as a ‘spontaneous abstract impressionist artist’. Her style is typified by bold colours and strong brushstrokes. She manipulates the paint by brush and knife to create texture and perspective.

Painting for almost two decades, Kyawana is probably best known for her signature paintings of the island’s flora and birds. A self-taught artist, her work over the years has been a diverse portfolio of iconic local cultural portraits, taken from Carnival or the Tobago Heritage Festival, as well as paintings of children at play. Often rendered in oil or acrylic, infused with colour and expression, her pieces offer an unique intimacy and vibrancy. Several pieces of Kyawana’s work are housed at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex in Tobago and she currently has work exhibited at Horizon’s Art Gallery, Mucurapo in Trinidad.

FB: @rosemary.hadeed.9

Email: abefam2@gmail.com • Tel: 782-9054

While every care has been taken in the compilation of information contained in this guide, such information is subject to change without notice.

The publishers accept no responsibility for such changes. Copyright © 2020 Caribbean Tourism Publications Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

What’s Inside trinidad Feature 6 Calendar 10 Festivals 18 Shopping 34 Health & Beauty 46

48

18

FESTIVALS

12 FETES

Exploring 48 Business 70 Accommodation 82 Entertainment 92 Restaurants 110

106 SPORTS

EXPLORE

What’s Inside tobago Calendar 130 Feature 132 Festivals 135 Touring 138 Real Estate 149

Shopping Entertainment Accommodation Restaurants Fast Facts

150 152 162 170 176

BEACHES

144

152

ENTERTAINMENT

170 RESTAURANTS

L-R Chive Fields

Photo: Christopher Anderson

Moruga Hill Rice - Vista Dora Estates

Photo: @vistadoradoestate

INSET: Lettuce field

Photo: Christopher Anderson

INS & OUTS

Home

Grown

A Culinary Journey Through Trinidad

By Anna Walcott-Hardy

6 FEATURE

If you travel to Moruga, you will see hills of a lost variety of wholegrain rice that’s not only delicious, but enriched with fibre, iron, potassium, calcium and vitamins, that was brought to Trinidad in 1815 by the Merikins. The Merikins were African-American marines who fought in the War of 1812 on the side of the British against the Americans and after initially serving in Bermuda were given land. These former slaves from the Trans-Atlantic trade would settle in six Company villages in the south of the island, and as landowners they and their children would become pioneers in several professions including: farming, business, science, medicine, the arts and academia. Today, farmers like Mark Forgenie, have improved the harvesting methods for this unique red, organic wholegrain rice that has become a staple in restaurants across the country.

Miles away in the lush valley of Lopinot, lies the home of the infamous Charles Joseph Comte Lopinot de la Fresilliere (1738-1819), a Lieutenant-General in the French Army, who fought with the British, he petitioned the British Secretary of State for compensation for lands lost in another island and was granted over 400 acres in Trinidad. Arriving in 1800 in Trinidad with his family and about 100 slaves he was not granted the

...the island’s culinary offering is a complex, rich brew made from an innovative mix of quality ingredients and a fusion of cooking techniques.

FEATURE  7

INS &

INS & OUTS

initial request and instead purchased a sugar estate.

However, he later gained more land as he rose in rank to Brigadier-General in the Militia. A few years later, he planted cocoa in the serene valley of La Reconnaissance estate, that is now owned by the Government and houses the Lopinot museum. But Lopinot is just one of many cocoa and sugar estates that once made Trinidad a world leader. Here is where it gets even more interesting. Although the cocoa industry declined in productivity over the years, there has been a re-surgence, buoyed by innovative research and training at the Cocoa Research Centre at The University of the West Indies led by Professor Umaharan, which also houses a vast gene bank; in addition a new generation of farmers and chocolatiers have invested in this global passion for our high grade, Trinitario chocolate, in an industry that’s expected to grow exponentially over the next decade. You can buy local milk or dark chocolates, cocoa nibs, and cocoa powder in stores nationwide. Some of the most delectable awardwinning brands include Brasso Seco Chocolate Co, Cocobel Chocolates, Cocoa Republic, JB Chocolates, Omaribeans Organic, Suneaters Organic, TT Fine Cocoa Company and The Lopinot Chocolate Company, among many others.

Several estates also offer tours and tastings.

For most Trinidadians, food has always been at the centre of family life.

There’s an historical connection to every meal and its preparation is both unique and universal. It’s about keeping ancient traditions alive during times of hardship, remembering loved ones and celebrating milestones.

So it’s not unusual that on an island of over 700,000 people living in cosmopolitan communities that have age-old traditions from the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, South and Central America or the First Indigenous Peoples, the cuisine is absolutely delicious and varied.

FROM TOP: Cocoa Estate, Lopinot

Photos: Christopher Anderson

INSET: Chocolate Tour Brasso Seco Chocolate Company.

Photo: Caribbean Discovery Tours

8 FEATURE

Parang in Paramin

Photo: Christopher Anderson

The rich soil, tropical climate, with seasonal rainy and dry seasons, cool nights (21 degrees Celsius) and warm days (31 degrees Celsius), moderated by the North East Trade Winds, make a haven for quality farm fresh produce.

From the street food of Doubles – a curried channa that’s topped with pepper, mango chutney and sandwiched between fried Bharra, to Callaloo – a popular soup made from the blended leaves of the plant cooked with ochroes, coconut milk, peppers and then the final touch of crab meat - the choices are vast. But don’t leave without trying a local staple, Roti, an East Indian traditional ‘bread’ made from flour, chick peas and butter, that’s used to wrap the most delicious combinations of curried chicken, duck, goat, shrimp, beef, conch, potato, pumpkin, mango, chick peas or even lobster – the possibilities seem endless, as are the flavours. You will find Roti shops throughout the island so ask for recommendations.

And of course there’s the seafood offerings from lobster to fresh fish, best enjoyed in restaurants or cafés near to an ocean breeze. If you visit Maracas Bay make sure to order a Shark and Bake, or you may prefer Shrimp or King Fish; don’t forget to add your choice of toppings from lettuce and pineapple to mango chutney or pepper and drizzle the garlic or tamarind sauce for a delectable lunch.

Over the years, waves of migrants have come to Trinidad from across the world: some kidnapped and brought as slave labour, others as indentured workers, many seeking new opportunities, others fleeing religious persecution, poverty or war, while others were given opportunities to gain “free” land through the 1783 edict, the Cedula of Population.

Whatever the reason, the island’s culinary offering is

a complex, rich brew that’s made from an innovative mix of quality ingredients and a fusion of cooking techniques.

As the gateway to the Americas, Trinidad is located just seven miles off the coast of Venezuela, you can find some of the best Arepas stuffed with cheese or meat as well as, Empañadas filled with avocado, chicken or cheese in restaurants in Woodbrook, Santa Cruz or Paramin. The picturesque hills of Paramin, where the Afro-French and Spanish heritage is alive and well, not only in the language but also in the Parang music and harvests of seasonings including chives, peppers and Shadon Beni, that form the base of many traditional meals including Pelau, is well worth the trip. Visit during sunrise or sunset and enjoy the view of the north coast and the valleys as you travel along the ridge. And during the Christmas season enjoy tasty Pastelles filled with pork or minced beef, currants, olives and pimentos and rolled into a cornmeal casing which is then wrapped in banana leaves. And a Christmas celebration is never complete without the cocktails that can range from Sorrell, a delectable drink made from the leaves of the plant, boiled and flavoured with cloves and sugar that goes perfectly well when mixed with Prosecco, to the Ginger Beer, Ponche-a-Crème and Petit Ponche.

From people who were intent on surviving and protecting their heritage by cooking memorable meals, on an island where fresh fruit hangs idly in so many gardens and a trip to the beach or river will often reap a rich harvest of fish and lobster, where chefs are intent on creating masterpieces, you won’t leave your new home-away-from-home hungry.

Bon Appetit!

FEATURE 9

INS &

CARNIVAL calendar kings & queens

13,16,21

carnival costume parades 20 13

panorama

9,16,22

SENIOR KINGS & QUEENS PRELIMINARIES Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM

CONVENTIONAL INDIVIDUALS COMPETITION Adam Smith Square, Port of Spain 7PM

16

21

18

TRADITIONAL CARNIVAL CHARACTERS PARADE Memorial Park, Victoria Square & Woodford Square 12 NOON

JUNIOR KINGS & QUEENS PRELIMINARIES Adam Smith Square 9AM

TRADITIONAL INDIVIDUAL COMPETITION Adam Smith Square, Port of Spain 7PM

DRAGON FESTIVAL George & Prince Streets 9AM

KINGS & QUEENS FINALS Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM

9

NATIONAL PANORAMA SEMI-FINALS MEDIUM & LARGE BANDS Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 1PM National Semi-Finals (Savannah Party)

16

NATIONAL PANORAMA FINALS MEDIUM BANDS Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 9AM

22

NATIONAL PANORAMA FINALS LARGE BANDS Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM

canboulay 21

RE-ENACTMENT OF CANBOULAY RIOTS Piccadilly Greens, Port of Spain 4AM

national stickfighting 7, 14, 19 PRELIMINARIES SEMI FINALS FINALS 7PM

FEBRUARY 2020 EVENTS IN TRINIDAD

24

j’ouvert!

&

25 carnival monday & tuesday 23

DIMANCHE GRAS Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM

24

J’OUVERT Nationwide 4AM MONDAY TRADITIONAL PARADE Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 9AM

kiddies

CARNIVAL!

15,22

25

SENIOR PARADE OF BANDS Carnival Tuesday Port of Spain 7AM

dimanche gras

23

24

it’s the ultimate 10

NATIONAL EXTEMPO PRELIMINARY 7:30PM

15

RED CROSS JUNIOR CARNIVAL Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 10 AM

22

REPUBLIC BANK JUNIOR PARADE OF BANDS Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 7AM CALYPSO FIESTA Skinner Park, San Fernando 12 NOON

17

NATIONAL JUNIOR CALYPSO MONARCH FINAL Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 10AM

18

RAPSO EXPLOSION

20

KAISORAMA – THE NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM

29

CARNIVAL LAGNIAPPE Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM

24

BRASS BACCHANAL Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah 9PM

24 Nov

2019

NATIO N Queen AL SINGLE PAN F ’s Park INALS Savan nah, P ort of Spain

4 Jan 2

020

NATIO NAL P ANOR SMAL AMA S LB EMI FIN Oppos ANDS ALS ite Vic toria S quare, Park S treet

11 Jan 2

020

NATIO NAL P A SMAL L BAN NORAMA F INALS DS

19 Jan

2020

NATIO NAL J UNIOR PANO RAMA F Carniv al City INALS , Quee n’s Park

Savan

nah

INS & OUTS

CARNIVAL fetes

CARNIVAL FÊTES

january 4

TRIBE ICE @carnivaltribe

HYDRATE @carnivaltribe

STUMPED!!! @redantscarnival

12 25 26

UWI FÊTE @UWIFete

february 8

14

BEACH HOUSE ON THE HILL www.beachhouse.me

ARMY FÊTE @ArmyFete

15

BLUE RANGE @redantscarnival

CARNIVAL SHOWS

17

MACHEL MONDAY @MachelMontanoMonk

TUCO RAPSO EXPLOSION @tuco.trinidadtobago

18

20

TUESDAY ON THE ROCKS 7, KES IN CONCERT @Kestheband

TERRIFIC THURSDAY –

NATIONAL CALYPSO

MONARCHS & EXTEMPO FINALS @tuco.trinidadtobago

21

THE INTERNATIONAL

SOCA MONARCH,

‘FANTASTIC FRIDAY’ @itsfantasticfriday

SOCA RAFF UP @houseofsiete

CHUTNEY SOCA MONARCH, SEMI-FINALS & FINALS @SouthexEvents

HYATT LIME 2020 @HyattRegencyTrinidad

KAISO KARAVAN CALYPSO TENT @kaisokaravan

16 19

19 20

PUNCHY WEDNESDAY TRIBE IGNITE @carnivaltribe

21

RISE AND JAM @houseofsiete

23

BEACH HOUSE 2020 www.beachhouse.me

BACK TO BASICS CALYPSO TENT NATIONAL CALYPSO QUEEN COMPETITION - National Women’s Action Committee VINTAGE FUH SO! @HNCPPA

D’ORIGINAL BREAKFAST PARTY @valevibe

CALYPSO SPEKTAKULA THRU THE YEARS @SpekEvents

FINESSE ULTRA-PREMIUM @greenhouseeventstt

CALYPSO FIESTA, TUCO NATIONAL @tuco.trinidadtobago

23

ADDICTION @shurwayne.winchester. official.personal.page

CALYPSO MONARCH SEMI-FINAL @tuco.trinidadtobago

ONENESS, THE PARTY @stannsrcchurch

NATIONAL EXTEMPO PRELIMINARY @tuco.trinidadtobago

SUNRISE BREAKFAST PARTY @sunnationjamaica CAESAR’S ARMY AM BUSH @caesarsarmy BACCHANAL ROAD 2020 @caesarsarmy BRIAN LARA ALL-INCLUSIVE SUNNY SIDE UP BREAKFAST PARTY @sunnysideuptt FETE LOVERS @trinifetelovers

12 CARNIVAL CALENDAR

KAISO FUH SO @trinidadallstars THE OLD YARD (FORMERLY VIEY LA COU) @UWI.DCFA ALTERNATIVE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL @ACF.TT.World.Wide

Nadia Batson

SCHOOL FÊTES

january 12

SOKA IN MOKA XXI

Trinity College @sokainmoka

25

OLD HILLARIANS ALL INCL @OldHilarians

25

EVOLVE ALL INCLUSIVE

Presentation Chaguanas @evolvefete

february 1

FÊTE WITH THE SAINTS

ST MARY’S COLLEGE (CIC) @CICPSU

2

HOLY NAME CONVENT

COOLER PARTY @hncpos

2

PRESTIGE – THE FESTIVAL,

PRESENTATION COLLEGE @PREStigeFete

8

FÊTE ROYAL QRC @QRCFeteRoyal

15

FATIMA FÊTE @FatimaOldBoysAssociation

21

PARTY IN PARADISE NAPARIMA COLLEGE @ NapsAssociation

ST FRANCOIS GIRLS’ COLLEGE STRAIGHT OUTTA BELMONT - St. Francis Boys College HILLVIEW COLLEGE ARIMA BOYS’ RC

CULTURAL calendar february

EGUNGUN PROCESSION AT THE OGUN FESTIVAL Celebration by the Orisha faith

march 10

30

PHAGWA-HOLI FESTIVAL Celebrated in fields and savannahs across the country.

National Council of Indian Culture NCIC FB: NCICTT/ SPIRITUAL BAPTIST/ SHOUTER LIBERATION DAY Public Holiday

may 7

FEAST OF LA DIVINA PASTORA/SOPAREE MAI Festival of La Divina Pastora La Divina Pastora RC Church, Siparia

23 or 24

30

31

2

INDIAN ARRIVAL DAY Public Holiday Re-enactment of the arrival of the Fatel Razack at various beaches throughout Trinidad and Tobago.

GANGA DASHAHARA Devotees make the pilgrimage each year to the Marianne River in Blanchisseuse

31

MAY CROSS FESTIVAL/

CRUZ DE MAYO CELEBRATION Lopinot

THE FESTIVAL

OF SANTA ROSA Arima

11-18

FIRST PEOPLES HERITAGE WEEK

FIRST PEOPLES DAY OF RECOGNITION FB: Santa Rosa First Peoples Community

14

phagwa

EMANCIPATION DAY (OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO) Public Holiday Experience the Lidj Yasu Omowale Emancipation Village in the Queen’s Park Savannah.

1, 23, 31

22

MAR

ST PETER’S DAY (Fisherman’s Fete) at Matelot Village Carenage Roman Catholic Church

august 1

EID AL-FITR Public Holiday

10

july

GANESH UTSAV Celebration of the birthday of the Hindu God Lord Ganesh.

Street Parade to Valencia River.

National Council of Indian Culture NCIC FB: NCICTT/

30 HOSAY 31 INDEPENDENCE DAY

Public Holiday

2020 EVENTS IN TRINIDAD october 3

25

LAUNCH OF PARANG FESTIVAL 2020 OCTOBER – DECEMBER Parang at various communities.

The National Parang Association of Trinidad and Tobago FB: npattofficialpage

RAMLEELA Re-enactment of the adventures of Shree Ram during his incarnation on earth. Performances have spread from fields and village streets National Ramleela Council of Trinidad & Tobago Inc. nrctt.org

OCT

3

parang! divali

NOV

14

november 14 DIVALI

Public Holiday DIVALI NAGAR Week leading up to Divali

december 25

26

CHRISTMAS DAY Public Holiday BOXING DAY Public Holiday

CULTURAL CALENDAR 15

INS &

INS & OUTS

EVENTS calendar february 3-5

T&T ENERGY CONFERENCE & TRADESHOW @TTEnergyChamber ttenergyconference.org

feb-march

CARNIVAL AT THE CASTLE Carnival exhibition Castle Killarney Queen’s Park Savannah TURTLE WATCHING Leather Back Turtle Watching, season begins in T&T. Ends 31st August Permits are required from Forestry Division Offices 657-9450; 668-2518; 622-3217

june

CAFD FASHION WEEK 2020 The Caribbean Academy of Fashion and Design UTT @thecafd

july 2-5

TRADE & INVESTMENT

CONVENTION (TIC)

Centre of Excellence, Macoya www.tic-tt.com TBA

ANGOSTURA BITTER RIVALS

august

PAN ON D’AVENUE Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook

UWI CLASSIC CONCERT Department of Creative and Festival Arts @UWI.DCFA

april 3-5

NEW FIRE FESTIVAL newfireworld.com

4,11, WOMEN IN JAZZ 18 Fiesta Plaza MovieTowne 28 JAZZ ARTISTS ON THE

GREEN Farm Road, Saint Joseph @ JazzArtistsOnTheGreens

may 1-3

THE NGC BOCAS LIT FEST www.bocaslitfest.com @bocaslitfest

2

JAZZ UNDER THE STARS Green Meadows, Santa Cruz @jazzunderthestarstt

23

NORTH COAST JAZZ FESTIVAL

Festival Grounds, Sir Solomon Hochoy Park, Blanchisseuse @NCJazz TBA

FIRST CITIZENS NATIONAL POETRY SLAM @FCNPS

16 EVENTS CALENDAR

september

9-15 TRINIDAD+TOBAGO

FILM FESTIVAL 2020 www.ttfilmfestival.com

NGC SANFEST 2020

Arts & Entertainment,

San Fernando Arts Council,

Creative Arts Centre www.sfactt.weebly.com

october

CALYPSO HISTORY MONTH www.tucott.com SOUTHEX

INTERNATIONAL EXPO

Gulf City Mall www.southex.co.tt

november

CLASSIC JEWELS XII

Trinidad All Stars trinidadallstars.org

FEATURE  17

INS &

festivals

Photo: Devi Nath Photography

INS & OUTS

Carnival the annual return

By Sheldon Waithe

Like a visit to the Fountain of Youth, the mind, body, soul & psyche craves the Carnival season to revitalize, refresh and reset. It’s the ultimate annual return, the festive few weeks that sees the revisit start with a bang and then explode into that final Carnival weekend. The journey ends of course with Mas’ and then it’s time for your ‘Carnival tabanca’, where you’re sad that it’s all over but smiling because of the time that you had.

The faint musings begin in August the previous year, with the band launches that are elaborate fashion shows and a harbinger of what’s to come in six months. This being associated with Carnival, it naturally evolves into a fête. By the time Christmas is over and the New Year is on the horizon, the first songs are hitting the airwaves; a few amongst you will initially claim that one or two tunes are not to your liking but that sacrilege is soon forgotten as the rhythm takes over your body and soon changes your mind.

By early January, steelpan notes fill the night air, as songs are chosen by various bands for the Panorama competition. Calypso Tents throw open their doors, welcoming all with lyrical dexterity as the bards within cover subjects as diverse as local politics, global issues, sporting achievements and personal relationships.

The pace ramps-up with the proliferation of fêtes. Glamorous fêtes, wet fêtes, cooler fêtes, breakfast fêtes, boat fêtes; every possible niche is covered, all delivering revelry on an unmatched scale. From lazers and fireworks at night to being soaked in colour and water as the sun rises, with singers belting out their brand of Soca intoxication, the fête is the pathway to Mas’.

20 FESTIVALS

TOP LEFT CLOCKWISE J’Ouvert

Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Carnival Band ‘K2K Alliance Through the Stained Glass Windows’ 2019

Photo: Maria Nunes

HADCO Phase II Pan Groove

Photo: Maria Nunes

The splendour extends to the stage where the Kings and Queens of the bands strike the senses with incredulity of perfection in design and construction. That fabric, beads, feathers and wire can capture the ethos of the band’s theme so magnificently, it is another realm of the Carnival.

Come the big weekend, it’s almost impossible to keep up, for on the menu are history, the macabre, competition finals and the ultimate freedom that is J’Ouvert. The clash of stick fighting breaks the early Carnival Friday dawn, the re-enactment of the Canboulay Riots is the signal that from now on it’s “pace to the end”.

That evening sees the marathon Soca Monarch competition, crowning the world’s best and continuing the velocity towards ‘d road’. Pan, sweet pan, on Saturday night is as close to a respite that you will get.

Monday brings mud, cocoa, paint and powder; doused from head to toe, you’re even unrecognizable to yourself and that’s the idea of J’Ouvert. This is liberation, Trini style.

The turnaround is both figurative and physical, for mere hours later you are glammed up, glittered and ready for the road. You spend two glorious days raving to the beat of Soca in impossibly beautiful costumes.

On Ash Wednesday, weary but happy, all that occupies your mind is how long until Carnival returns?

FESTIVALS 21

INS &

Fêtes

Every conceivable type of party caters for your needs, with every weekend from the 1st January before it ramps up to several every night in the final two weeks of the season! From all-inclusives to intimate settings; the common thread is soca music, camaraderie and a guaranteed great time.

Get the full listing at www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com

Panyards

Everything is centred on progressing to the semis and finals of the Panorama steelpan competition, making judging nights the most popular occasion to visit the panyards. Bands practise most evenings so drop into the nearest yard and listen to the skills being honed. Before you know it, you’ve become a devotee to that band. www.pantrinbago.co.tt

The Greatest Show!

INS & OUTS

FROM THE TOP Panorama

Photo: Maria Nunes

Kiddies Carnival Photo: Devi Nath Photography

Traditional Mas Photo: Maria Nunes

Kiddies Carnival

With a few warm-up events in the weeks leading up to Carnival weekend, the kids takeover the streets and stages culminating in their ‘big one’ on the final Saturday. If a child’s joy is infectious, then be prepared to catch the fever when they “jump-up” to the music. www.ncctt.org

King & Queen of Carnival

The Queen’s Park Savannah stage is resplendent with the brilliance of costume making to the nth degree as band leaders vie for the coveted crowns, with their elaborately titled works that stun onlookers. This is the personification of creativity on a global scale.

22 SECTION NAME HERE

Ole Mas

Stilt-walking Moko Jumbies, Blue Devils, Fire Eaters and Spirits take over the capital on Friday around noon. It is truly macabre, a celebration of T&T folklore highlighted by the appearances of spiritual stalwarts such as Papa Bois and the cow-heeled La Diablesse.

Soca Monarch

Also known as ‘Fantastic Friday’ for good reason, this is the official World Championship of Soca. The Hasely Crawford Stadium lights up at 7pm - and sees the finalists portray their songs with special effects, surprise guests and superb performances - until 4am.

This is the crowning moment for the songs that have kept you moving all season long. www.socamonarch.net/

Dimanche Gras

The Calypso tradition anoints its champion on Thursday, at the ubiquitous Queen’s Park Savannah stage. Satire is the order of the day but so too is melody. The lyrical content is superb, as is expected from this 80-year-old competition.

Carnival Village

If the Queen’s Park Savannah is the hub for Carnival, then it’s apt that this centre of arts & craft, entertainment and local cuisine is located at the entrance to the staging area. Located on the southeastern tip of the Savannah, it’s abuzz with visitors daily (and nightly) from the moment it opens five weeks into the season.

FROM THE TOP JAB JAB Photo: Ziad Joseph

Dame Lorraine Photo: Ziad Joseph

Carnival Tuesday ‘on the Stage’ Photo: Devi Nath Photography

CARNIVAL 23

INS &

M OKO power

INS & OUTS

By Anna Walcott-Hardy

“It’s a different world up there. I love it,” For graphic designer Kriston Chen, walking in twenty-foot wooden stilts, whether in Alice Yard or at the Queen’s Park Savannah, is a liberating experience.

“This year (2019), I played with Moko Sõmõkow’s Palace of the Peacock, as one of the forest spirits. The band has grown from last year and there’s been an incredible amount of support from the public leading up to this year’s Carnival. Winning Queen and Band of the Year is a nod to the power of Moko Jumbies and Traditional Mas’.” Kriston explained.

Having grown-up as a minority in Trinidad, he has at times been heckled as being foreign, a “Chinese” rather than as a Trinidadian.

However, as he explained in the engaging film ‘Lifted’ that premiered at the ttfilm festival at Carifesta, when people see him stilt-walking the focus is inclusive.

In 2017, after his return from studying in New Orleans at Tulane University, gaining a Master’s Degree in Public Health and an Associate’s degree in graphic design at Parsons, The New School for Design in New York City, Kriston wanted to launch a community project to help a new generation find a source of tradition and camaraderie.

From the band Moko Sõmõkow

24 FESTIVALS

The project has gone on to become a huge success and also brought a greater understanding and education on the plight of refugees from neighboring countries including Venezuela.

Known as 1,000 Mokos, the programme which was launched at Chris Cozier and Sean Leonard’s creative space, Alice Yard in Woodbrook, aims to bring communities together by teaching, for free, the art of stilt-walking. The team also hopes to break a world record of enrolling over 1,000 participants into this Afro-Caribbean art-form. Just two years later, the workshops and training sessions have ensured that they’ve crossed the one thousand mark.

As for the future - Kriston remains optimistic.

“I sometimes hear people say Traditional Mas’ is dying. It’s not. For anyone who has ever visited a Moko Jumbie Mas’ Camp, or Blue Devil or Fancy Sailor, you know very well the thing is alive. I’ve met some of the best people in these camps.

The energy is electric and the creativity is insane.

People are falling in love all over again with mas’.”

FROM LEFT CLOCKWISE Kriston Chen Photo: Maria Nunes

From the band Moko Sõmõkow Photo: RAPSO Imaging

‘Yardcore’ initiative

Photos: Shaun Rambaran

SECTION NAME HERE 25

INS &

INS & OUTS

BP Renegades Steel Orchestra INSET: Ray Holman

Photos: Maria Nunes

The Art of

Pan Arranging

A CONVERSATION WITH THE LEGENDARY RAY HOLMAN

By Paul Hadden

In the world of pan, Ray Holman needs no introduction. He is a talented composer, arranger, and pannist whose musical arrangements have won several awards over the years. As we sat in his Woodbrook home, facing a pair of Double Second Pans, Holman gave a glimpse into his approach.

26 FESTIVALS

“Visualization,” he explained, “is key, but you must be very careful about what you are focusing on. I never arrange a piece with the judges in mind. What I do instead is I try to recreate the Carnival atmosphere in my mind; I try to see the crowd listening to the song, and imagine their reaction. I think about the way that the music will make people want to dance, I see them in my mind going down the road jamming to my song. That is what will guide the kind of music I make, and the sort of vibrancy that the piece will produce.”

The annual Panorama competition for which much pan music is arranged takes place in the weeks and days leading up to Carnival, and is normally held around February or March. But as much as preparation is key to success in music, Holman spoke of the difficulties of trying to arrange pan music from September or October, before the Carnival the following year. “It’s the breeze,” he explained. “When December comes and the cool Christmas breeze starts to blow, and you can begin to feel the Carnival vibration in the air, well that’s when the inspiration truly begins to hit.”

“You can’t only depend on inspiration of course,” he continued, “time is a precious thing and you can’t waste any of it just waiting for inspiration. When it comes to music, you need to be disciplined and plan your tune well in advance. But trust me, when you get that surge of inspiration, well that’s the icing on the cake. Remember though, that you need to make sure you have a good cake before you ice it!”

The pieces, he stressed, also need to be musically solid, as well as complex and interesting. “You aren’t looking to create a flimsy sound. You never want the music to sound trite. What you want is something clean, warm, rich, and with body.”

I asked if there’s a personal deadline for completing the Panorama arrangements. “Honestly, it’s ready when it’s ready. A piece of pan music is always a work in progress, and you have to be open to changes, as well as to suggestions from others. Sometimes, a player might hit a wrong note in the panyard, and it ends up sounding better than what you had originally envisioned.” He joked about a time while composing for Starlift that he made a few quick last minute changes to the piece almost just before the band wheeled the pans on to the Savannah stage to face the judges.

Ultimately, steel pan music is dynamic, it’s just as much about the synergy of the players, the composer, and the crowd, as it is about musical technicality and expertise.

In the pan yard, it’s easy to see how the composer feeds off of the energy of the pannists, as well as those who have come to see the band practice. Holman struggles to describe the Carnival vibe, it must really be experienced to be understood. However, all you need to do is take a quick visit to a panyard during the Carnival season, watch the music come alive, and you will understand exactly what he’s talking about.

Panorama 2019 Large Conventional Band Winners 1st

BPTT Renegades 138 Charlotte Street, Port of Spain Arranger: Duvone Stewart

2nd Desperadoes

3rd

Tragarete Road, Newtown (Panorama) Arranger: Carlton ‘Zanda’ Alexander

Massy Trinidad All Stars 46-48 Duke Street, Port of Spain Arranger: Leon ‘Smooth’ Edwards

4th

Shell Invaders

Queen’s Park Oval, Car Park, Woodbrook

Arranger: Arddin Herbert

5th

6th

7th

8th

9th

10th

Caribbean Airlines Skiffle Coffee Street, San Fernando Arranger: K. Williams, O. Gonzales & M.Brooks HADCO Phase 11 Pan Groove 15 Hamilton Street Street, Woodbrook Arranger: Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe First Citizen Supernovas Surrey Village, Lopinot Road, Arouca Arranger: Amrit Samaroo Nutrien Silver Stars 56 Tragarete Road, Newtown, Port of Spain Arranger: Liam Teague Republic Bank Exodus St Johns Road, Eastern Main Road & John Road, St. Augustine Arranger: Pelham Goddard T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Southern Main Road, Enterprise Village, Chaguanas Arranger: Clarence Morris

FESTIVALS 27

INS &

INS & OUTS

Multi Cultural Festivals

By Bavina Sookdeo

Whether you are able to experience the serenity of the smoke ceremony and feast on freshly baked cassava bread at one of the oldest celebrations on the isle, the Santa Rosa Carib Festival; or bathe in a wash of pink, purple and blue abeer at Phagwa; or watch men ‘dance the moon ‘ in the streets of St James at Hosay; Trinidad is a land of mystical celebration in the streets, parks and homes and all are welcome.

28 FESTIVALS

Hindu Festivals Ramleela

One of the ancient religious traditions brought to our shores by indentured labourers from India, who came to work on sugar cane plantations in colonial times, Ramleela, portrays Rama’s life on earth through a dramatic play. Rama, an incarnation of the Lord, is a major deity in Hinduism and Ramleela takes the story from the Ramayan, a Hindu text. Like many of the celebrations on the islands, Ramleela brings communities together, regardless of religious affinity, as many help to create props, costumes and sets for the play, which takes place three weeks before Divali. Majestic, colourful costumes are donned by actors who maintain a strict fast for the religious ten-day event. During Ramleela, the drama unfolds in communities throughout the country, culminating with a highly anticipated event – the destruction of Ravana, the evil king, through the burning of a monumental effigy. The destruction by fire represents the triumph of good over evil.

Phagwa or Holi

Today, the Hindu festival of Phagwa or Holi is celebrated by all, as Chotwal groups go from community to community sharing their songs, and celebrants joyfully spray each other with the colourful dye known as abeer. This festival of purification and fertility marks the downfall of the evil king, Hiranyakashipu, and his sister, Holika and the coming of spring. Join in the celebrations, but be sure to wear old clothing since you will certainly be drenched with the colours of Phagwa.

Ganga Dashahara DATE: HELD OVER THE FIRST 10 DAYS OF THE MONTH OF JYESHTHA (IN JUNE).

Today, the world’s oldest river festival is still celebrated at the Marianne River in Blanchisseuse, Arima. The river is said to have been consecrated by water and dust from over 2000 holy rivers and revered places in India. If you decide to join in the celebrations, wear white or yellow and take along coconut husk aarti boats. The pilgrimage to the river, celebrating the descent of Ganga to earth, involves thousands of devotees performing puja (prayers) and offerings. A murti (clay model) of the goddess Ganga is also immersed in the waters of the river.

TOP LEFT Phagwa

Photo: Maria Nunes

BOTTOM RIGHT Ganga Dashahara

Photo: Lisa Fernandez/Lifepyx

FESTIVALS 29

INS &

Ganesh Utsav DATE: DURING THE HINDU MONTH OF BHADO – USUALLY BETWEEN THE MONTHS OF AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER (DEPENDING ON THE MOON)

Celebrated throughout the diaspora, Danesh Utsav has grown tremendously. Celebrated at many temples, not only in the South of Trinidad, but throughout the island, celebrating Lord Ganesha’s birthday which ends with the visarjan (immersion) of a massive murti (clay model) in rivers and seas. You can witness this at beaches across the island, including Manzanilla, Tyrico, Mayaro and several rivers.

Divali DATE: USUALLY CELEBRATED IN OCTOBER OR NOVEMBER.

Known as the festival of lights, thousands of deyas (clay pots) are lit with the traditional oil and wick but the Hindu festival also features wax deyas and electrical lights. The community spirit is still present as many nonHindus join in the welcoming of Mother Lakshmi into their homes, recognizing the conquest of good over evil, light over darkness, with puja (prayer) after fasting.

Muslim Festivals Ramadhan and Eid-Ul-Fitr

DATE: RAMADHAN FALLS WITHIN THE NINTH MONTH OF THE ISLAMIC LUNAR CALENDAR.

The month in which the Holy Quran was revealed to the holy Prophet Muhammad by Angel Gabriel is celebrated by Muslims throughout the world. Locally, Muslims maintain a strict fast throughout the month of Ramadhan and at the end, await the sighting of the moon for Eid-ulFitr to be declared. On the day of Eid-ul-Fitr, mosques or Muslim homes welcome friends and family to celebrate the day.

Eid-Ul-Adha DATE: CELEBRATED EVERY YEAR ON THE 10TH OF DHUL HIJJAH, WHICH IS A MONTH ON THE LUNAR CALENDAR.

Eid-ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, marks the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Father Abraham to Christians) to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismaeel, in obedience to the will of God. The sacrifice made by Muslims on this day is all in the emulation of Ibrahim’s willingness to end the life of his son for Allah. The meat of sheep, goats and cows are cooked and the meals shared with family, friends, and the less fortunate.

Hosay DATE: CELEBRATED IN THE MUHURRAM MONTH OF THE MUSLIM CALENDAR, 10 DAYS AFTER THE APPEARANCE OF THE NEW MOON.

You may have known Hosay to be a Muslim festival but it is important to note that it was originally performed only by the Shiites (a Muslim sect) and has changed in tone and scope over the years. Many of the events take place not only in St. James, but also in Cedros and Tunapuna. Geared towards honouring brothers Hosein and Hassan (the grandsons of Prophet Muhammad) who were murdered, the festival has maintained its structure of flag night, Small Tadjah night and Big Tadjah Night.

FROM TOP Hosay

Photo: Richard Lyder

Chowtaal

Photo: Edison Boodoosingh

Christian Festivals

Major events on the Christian calendar include Christmas, Easter, Ash Wednesday, and Corpus Christi. Some of these are observed by various churches and are even celebrated through street parades. A true Trinidadian Christmas must include the musical tradition of Parang, traditional foods including Ponche-a-Crème, Garlic Pork and Pastelles, as well as gatherings after midnight mass on Christmas Eve.

St Peter’s Day

St Peter, the Roman Catholic patron saint of fishermen, is worshipped throughout seaside villages from Chaguaramas to Cedros and Moruga. The Carenage RC Church and community host an annual procession to the seaside, accompanied by the steel pan, where the fishermen’s boats are then blessed by priest.

La Divina Pastora / Sopari Mai

Siparia comes alive on Holy Thursday as thousands flock to the renowned La Divina Pastora Church, home of the precious statue. Today, La Divina Pastora is a multi-religious celebration for Roman Catholics, Hindus, Orishas and the First Nations People. It is said that she performs miracles and grants wishes to the less fortunate. From Holy Thursday to Good Friday, vendors line the streets selling their goods and the less fortunate line the compound of the La Divina Pastora RC School (located next to the church) to receive alms from the thousands who make the pilgrimage to receive the saint’s blessings. On the third Sunday after Easter, the Festival of La Divina Pastora is marked with a grand procession.

St. Peter’s Statue, Moruga Photo: Christopher Anderson

Our Lady of Guadeloupe Catholic Church, Paramin Photo: Maria Nunes

FESTIVALS 31

INS &

INS & OUTS

Multicultural Festivals Emancipation Day

T&T’s Emancipation Day continues to grow in size and popularity, featuring lectures, workshops, concerts that are mostly concentrated around the LidjYasu Omowale Emancipation Village in the Queen’s Park Savannah. This usually begins days before the official holiday. Thousands gather on this auspicious day in T&T’s history for the Canboulay procession through the streets of the nation’s capital, Port of Spain. The Trans-Atlantic slave trade can be considered one of the greatest tragedies in human history. In 1985, Trinidad and Tobago became the first country in the world to commemorate the abolition of slavery, choosing August 1st as the date in recognition of the August 1st, 1834 enactment of the British Emancipation Act.

First Peoples Heritage Celebrations

Every October a week of festivities showcase the First People’s culture as they also embark on educating other citizens on their legacy. A trip to Arima, an Amerindian stronghold, is where you can see the smoke ceremony, performed by a shaman at the base of the statue of Hyarima, a venerated chieftain, as they honour the ancestors and the earth through prayers and song. A procession is then led through the streets by Amerindian royalty, dressed in full regalia. You can join in as feasting and celebration follows.

Odun Egungun

After centuries of African enslavement and religious persecution, those of the Orisha faith can now openly celebrate. The Ile Ijosin Otura Meji Awon Osun organizes the annual festival where sacred rituals are performed. As the spirits of the ancestors manifest through the Egungun, performers are attired in robes and masks; a lively street procession follows with dancers, drummers and singers.

Spiritual Shouter Baptist DATE: MON, 30 MARCH 2020

FROM TOP Emancipation Flambeau Parade Nona Lopez Calderon Galera Moreno Aquan, the new Carib Queen prospective of the Arima First Peoples Photos: Edison Boodoosingh

32 FESTIVALS

The Spiritual Shouter Baptists were banned from practising their religion in Trinidad from 1917 to 1951 by the Colonial government. Forcing the Baptists to meet in secrecy in hideaways at odd hours to practise their religion. In the 1920s and 1930s, their fight was gaining strength and leaders including iconic labour unionist, Tubal Uriah ‘Buzz’ Butler came forth. March 30th, 1951 Grenadian-born Elton George Griffith worked long and hard to have the Prohibition Ordinance repealed. In the year 1996, the Spiritual Shouter Baptists were granted an annual public holiday.

Today, Baptists in T&T celebrate their religion on this day.

O Come all Ye Faithful

By Bavina Sookdeo

Parang in Paramin

Almost everyone gets excited about the start of the Christmas season which begins for us on September 25th – the beginning of the Parang season. September is also Parang History Month, and just after, the increasingly popular Parang Festival begins as a gradual build up to Christmas.

President of NPATT, Alicia Jaggasar explained that the Association’s primary focus for the next three years is “to rekindle the spirit of Parranda at Christmas throughout our communities, and to inform the public about Parang, its origins and its traditions, to ensure the survival of this art form.” She added that NPATT’s current mission is also aimed at opening up regional, national and international opportunities to present, promote and effectively market the works of artists in the association. The junior leg of the annual competition, “Viva La Tradición” involves thirty primary and twenty secondary schools nationwide who compete for national honours at their respective levels.

Some of NPATT’s 2020 initiatives are: CarniParang for Carnival, Easter Parang in April, Maypole Festival in May, workshop and master classes for Bands Juniors and Seniors in July.

Start of parang season: September

For further information visit www.npatt.com

FESTIVALS 33

INS &

shopping

Photo: Patricia Lewis

COME HOME

senses TO YOUR

By Roslyn Carrington

We all love a little retail therapy; that special thrill we feel when we find the perfect gift, snap up an unexpected bargain, or discover a memento that will keep that wonderful visit to Trinidad fresh in our minds.

But shopping in Trinidad isn’t only about what we can possess; it’s about the experience.

Feast your eyes on the infinite combinations of shapes and colours you’ll find among our many art galleries and private ateliers. Styles vary from artist to artist, mood to mood. Admire paintings reminiscent of the old masters, or those with a more modern flavour.

Our innate sense of high style and fashion are always on display as local designers present creations that can hold their own on any catwalk. Flaunt the new you; snap a selfie for those back home.

Top off your outfit with a pair of designer shades from Look Opticians.

The best boutiques stock top cosmetic brands alongside local artisanal products, produced in small batches using natural local and imported ingredients. You can get these, along with a wide range of makeup and personal products, at places like Excellent Stores, the largest department store chain in the country.

Slide into crisp, fresh sheets, sink into fluffy pillows, and relax on bespoke furniture. It’s your choice: traditional

INS & OUTS

36 SHOPPING

SHOPPING  37

INS &

INS & OUTS

wood, solid wrought iron, brass, or edgy stainless steel. An inviting piece of furniture is a souvenir that will grace your home for years. Drop in at Fen Mohammed, Signature Selection or Mi Casa, three of our largest furniture stores, and view their exquisite collections. For longer stays, Batch Caribbean is the place for professional-level kitchen equipment and an impressive array of knives.

Enjoy exquisite perfumes, from sensual to woodsy to tangy and fresh; choose from perfumes, colognes, scented powders and more in department stores, mall outlets and fine boutiques. One of our favourites is DUFRY, a well-stocked duty-free shop at Piarco International Airport where you can stop on your way in and out.

Admit it; our amazing cuisine is part of the reason you came here. The spices, the delicacies, the bursts of unexpected flavour that make local food and drink unique. You’ll certainly want to eat out, but if you have the time, try a new recipe. You can buy ingredients at any of the chain supermarkets, mini-marts or specialty outlets. Gourmet shops like Malabar Farms in Maraval offer an array of meats, fruit and veggies, cheeses and canned or dried goods. But don’t you dare leave without dessert. To accompany your meal, delight your palate with wines from Vintage Imports or Fernandes Fine Wines & Spirits. Go ahead; you’re on vacation!

You may be all shopped out, but your energy will be renewed once you turn-up the volume. You can find CDs of many local artists from genres ranging from Soca to Chutney to reggae and Jazz. Of course, in keeping with the times, most local music is also downloadable.

Shopping in Trinidad is an immersive adventure.

Surround yourself, lose yourself, and give in to its allure.

Let your senses come home to a place where they can come alive again.

Look, touch, smell, taste, and listen 38 SHOPPING

SHOPPING  39

INS &

ART &Literature

ARTIST: PETER SHEPPARD @petersheppardART

INS & OUTS

40 SECTION NAME HERE

Art de Joulie

THINKARTWORKTT Studio

(868) 344-4025 artdejoulie@gmail.com; www.artdejoulie.com

(868) 769-1948 thinkartworktt@gmail.com www.thinkartworktt.com

At Art de Joulie you will discover colourful, vibrant and happy art inspired by the Caribbean lifestyle created by Trinidadian artist/director Paulette Narinesingh. The imagery featured on our merchandise is replicated from original artwork created by Paulette and makes delightful gifts or memories to treasure. Our merchandise can be found at the following locations: Karie’s Kraft Piarco Airport, Shore Things Café & Craft Lambeau Tobago, Bambu Crown Point Tobago, Sun Tings Frederick Street Port of Spain, Sapodilla Trincity Mall or call to arrange a visit to our studio.

THINKARTWORKTT Studio, founded by visual artist and mentor, Fitzroy Hoyte. Established in 2017, it is essentially a creative platform and space that facilitates the transference of artistic knowledge, skills and ideas. TAW Studio strives to promote local creatives, focusing on their individual needs, while also uplifting emerging artists through mentoring. The studio provides a platform for networking between artists of various backgrounds and artistic media as well as a plethora of services to the public of Trinidad and Tobago, both physically and virtually

SHOPPING 41

INS &

meet a Trini

INS & OUTS

Whether you’re an historian or art collector, it doesn’t matter, a trip to Trinidad isn’t complete without viewing the works of one of the island’s foremost watercolorists.

Donald Hinkson, known as Jackie, is an award-winning prolific painter with a gift for capturing the light and life of the Caribbean.

Born in 1942 in ‘Cobo Town’ , Port of Spain, he trained in Paris at the Academie Julien (1963-64) and at the University of Alberta, Canada (1965-70). He was influenced at an early age by the works of Cézanne, Turner and Winslow Homer and in later years after joining the Trinidad Art Society, recalled that he “stood in admiration before the works of Atteck, Chang, Alladin, Holder, Stollmeyer, Basso, Lamming, Salvatori and others. They all affirmed something about our culture, our landscape, our light”.

And it is this affirmation of people and place that makes Jackie’s work of interest to historians, collectors and art curators.

In the 1950s, as a young boy, he travelled with his father and brothers across the country, and what he saw left a mark.

“We accompanied our father in his working trips as a traveling officer to coconut estates and country shops. It was a rougher Mayaro, where the sea air mixed with the smell of copra.

I never forgot that Mayaro of my childhood.”

42 MEET A TRINI

Donald ‘Jackie’ Hinkson MASTER ARTIST

By Anna Walcott-Hardy For over half a century, he has tried to capture this sense of community and closeness to nature in his paintings of homes, from Mayaro to Lambeau. His dexterity as a draughtsman can be seen in the hundreds of drawings in pen, pencil or conté crayon of historical buildings, some adjacent to modern skyscrapers, many of these colonial structures having lost the battle have been demolished in a day.

His watercolour washes are Homeric, perfectly weighted, the tones incredibly accurate. He prefers plein air watercolours which in the Caribbean require tenacity, patience and agility, the weather may change from stark sunshine to rain in minutes and sometimes residents may be uncomfortable with any intrusion by a stranger. But Jackie’s unassuming manner and technical skill have allowed him to take the viewer into remarkable spaces throughout these twin-islands - from urban backyards to pristine sun-bleached beaches; the Queen’s Park Oval during a cricket match; a pan yard at midnight. The view is cinematic and subtle, the narrative unique.

Jackie Hinkson’s work is on display at The National Museum, Victoria Institute in Port of Spain, as well as at The University of the West Indies Alma Jordan Library, St Augustine and on sale at art galleries throughout Trinidad.

Buy the Book

By Anna Walcott-Hardy

MODERN CARIBBEAN CUISINE Wendy Rahamut

You can enjoy those delicious Caribbean dishes and eclectic flavours even after your holiday has come to an end. The well-known host of the TV cooking series Caribbean Flavours, Wendy Rahamut has given pages of easy-to-make recipes in colour coded-sections – from seafood and soups to salads, breads and cakes, that ensure that you take away some of that delicious fusion of West Indian flavour.

IN A WORLD OF THEIR OWN CARNIVAL DREAMERS & MAKERS Maria Nunes Robert & Christopher Publishers

For over a decade the prolific photographer, Maria Nunes, has been documenting the traditions of Trinidad’s Carnival. With over 300 colour and black and white images, this book will take you into the backyards, homes, workshops and studios of some of the most revered masters of the tradition, to the new generation of artists that are transforming the landscape. To say that she has an innate eye for detail, is an understatement, Nunes’ historical knowledge and aptitude for narrative make each image a layered, visual delight. The book also features an essay by the award-winning writer Shivanee Ramlochan, as well as excerpts from interviews with iconic artists including: Adrian Young, Etienne Charles, Narcenio ‘Senor’ Gomez, Steffano Marcano, Tracey Sankar-Charleau and Wendell Manwarren.

GOLDEN CHILD Claire Adam Faber & Faber

You can tell the quality of a book from its first paragraph, and Claire Adam takes the reader on a carefully-crafted, haunting and at times harrowing tale from the first page to the last. “Only Trixie is at the gate when he pulls up. She is sitting on her haunches staring at something across the road, her forelegs planted in front of her, solid as tree stumps.”

First-time Trinidadian novelist, now based in London, Adam writes in clear, concise yet incredibly elegant prose about a Trinidadian family’s struggle to survive in a world rank with strife, bias, opportunity, envy and ultimately love; engaging themes that run parallel to those within the wider community and country. Warning: you won’t want to put this novel down, so get ready for the ride.

BERYL McBURNIE Judy Raymond UWI Press

Known simply as Beryl to her friends, or La Belle Rosette to those who knew of her New York stage name when she performed there in the 1940s, Mc Burnie was in a league of her own.

This biography by Judy Raymond, published in 2018, examines the dedicated research and determination of the “imperious, flighty, charming” dancer and choreographer, who founded the Little Carib Theatre, a catalyst for a new generation of not only dancers, but actors, playwrights as well as musicians, during a time of socio-political upheaval and independence in the Caribbean. One in the acclaimed, innovative new series of Caribbean biographies launched by the UWI Press, the publication “portrays the woman, explores the influences that shaped Mc Burnie and those whom she influenced in turn, and tells of her struggle to realize a vision she nurtured for decades…” (UWI Press).

GARDENING IN TRINIDAD & TOBAGO: OUR STYLE The Garden Club of Trinidad

Published to mark the 25th anniversary of the Garden Club of Trinidad, this elegant coffee table book highlights some of the most stunning gardens in the island. From small urban spaces to sprawling verdant oases, landscaping techniques and traditions are featured to promote exactly what makes Trinidadian gardens so appealing. “The juxtaposition of colours, shapes and sizes of plants are truly inspirational: from the delicate perfection of orchids like the endemic yellow variety to the vibrant flowering Poui and Petrea, perfumed beauty of Ylang Ylang…this publication takes us into veritable gardens of Eden,” Dr Sterling Frost, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of First Citizens, sponsors of the publication explained. Definitely a must-buy!

SHOPPING 43

INS &

artisan MARKETS

By Roslyn Carrington

Photo: RAPSO Imaging

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the island vibe again and again is to visit the artisan markets. Hardly a weekend goes by without a gathering of artisans, chefs, entrepreneurs and farmers displaying their fare on decorated tables, while the aroma of freshly baked breads and pastries and the sound of Caribbean music fills the air.

INDULGE YOUR INNER GOURMAND Sample local delicacies . . . many of them whipped-up on the spot. Move from booth to booth and put together a threecourse meal, with appetizers like corn soup, arepas or accras; entrees like roasted meats with sweet potatoes or macaroni pie; and crave-able desserts.

Then it’s your choice of freshlysqueezed juices, coconut water or home-made wines.

INS & OUTS

44 SHOPPING

HUNT FOR BARGAINS Handmade jewellery, souvenirs and ornaments; soaps, body butters and perfumed oils; designer clothing, cotton sundresses and comfy leather sandals; fresh fruit and veggies. You won’t leave empty-handed.

LEARN & LIVE Many markets hold minilectures, demonstrations and awareness days. Discover the art of paper-making, learn how to make chocolate truffles, get tips on organic farming or recycling.

It’s food for your mind.

MAKE MEMORIES Spend a few hours sampling, tasting and trying on. Find the perfect gift—for yourself or someone else. Chat with the vendors. Reconnect with old acquaintances or make new ones.

Fill your basket with treasures . . . and fill your heart with joy at the artisan markets.

GREEN MARKET SANTA CRUZ Every Saturday (select Sundays), Saddle Road, Santa Cruz.

Facebook: GreenMarketSantaCruz NAMDEVCO FARMERS’ MARKETS Every Friday at Point Fortin; alternating Fridays at San Fernando and Rio Claro; every Saturday at Queen’s Park Savannah, Chaguanas and Diego Martin; every Sunday at Debe and Macoya; every other Sunday at Couva.

Facebook: NAMDEVCO THE EASTERN MARKET JFK Auditorium, University of the West Indies Facebook: The Eastern Market THE SOUTH MARKET Monthly at Naparima College in San Fernando.

Facebook: southmarket UPICK TT Chaguaramas. Tuesday to Sunday.

You can pick fresh fruit and vegetables.

Facebook: upicktt UPMARKET Once a month (more often closer to Christmas) at the Woodbrook Youth Facility.

Facebook: UpMarketTT

Artist Hazel Marshall Photo: Patricia Lewis

sweet HOME HOME

By Roslyn Carrington

We have some of the best varieties of cocoa in the world, and many artisans are taking up the mantle of their forefathers, producing hand-made chocolates prepared with roasted nuts, dried fruit, and spices.

Tamarind balls are still made using a traditional mix of sweet, salt and spicy flavours; while Bene balls, crunchy candy made of toasted sesame seeds, are a beloved Tobagonian treat.

There may be 101 things you can do with coconut, but sugar cake is definitely a favourite, from pinktinted shredded squares to robust chip-chip robed in caramelized brown sugar.

Candied citrus peel is a rare treat, especially from the peach-coloured shaddock, a large variety of pink grapefruit. But the candied white peel of the grapefruit is also delicious.

East Indian sweets are a favourite and widely shared during major feasts. Gulab jamool, jelabi, peera, barfi, ladoo and prasad, are as delectable as they sound. So stock up on sweets for your sweet . . . and yourself, too.

Photos: Shaun Rambaran

SECTION NAME HERE  45

INS &

INS & OUTS

coconut water Health & Beauty

TOP 5 REASONS

TO STOP AND HAVE A COCONUT WATER Apart from being nutritious, great for your health and full of antioxidants, Coconut Water is absolutely delicious.

Botanically registered as a fruit more than a nut, the cocos nucifera, takes about 8-12 months to mature as a palm tree.

The water in the green nut nourishes the fruit and as the tree matures so does the jelly, which can be grated, water added and used in local dishes like pelau and callaloo. Either way it’s been a treat for centuries in the topics, that’s now becoming a trend abroad.

1 2 3 4 5

‘ROUND THE SAVANNAH

AFTER THE GYM OR A RUN, hydrate and replenish your electrolytes with a drink straight from the shell that’s low in calories and full of nutrients. In just one cup (250ml) you’ll get- 46 calories, 3 grams of fibre, Vitamin C (10% of RDI), Magnesium 15%, Manganese 17%, Potassium 17%, Sodium 11%, and Calcium 6%.

MAY HELP LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE. In a small human study it was found that coconut water which is high in potassium, assisted with improved systolic blood pressure in 71% of participants.

MAY PREVENT KIDNEY STONES. Animal studies have proven that coconut water may assist with preventing kidney stones from attaching to the kidneys and from crystals forming.

MAY LOWER LOWER BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS and improve health markers. Studies in animals have shown that it can assist with reducing sugar levels and is also a good source of magnesium which is effective in increasing insulin sensitivity.

MIX IT UP: LOW IN CALORIES AND FULL OF NUTRIENTS, Coconut Water can add that extra pep to a vinaigrette dressing for your salad, add that punch to a tropical fruit smoothie or make that cocktail of White Rum and Coconut Water at sunset extra special.

Spa Esencia (868) 821-6500 1 Wrightson Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I. spa.esencia@hyatt.com | trirt.reservation@hyatt.com trinidad.regency.hyatt.com

Inspired by the beauty of Trinidad & Tobago’s colorful island environment, Spa Esencia is a natural reflection of the diverse heritage and celebratory culture that gives Trinidad & Tobago its unique character.

Offering authentic spa treatments based on Trinidad & Tobago’s natural bounty and non-stop festival calendar – time to PREPARE, INDULGE, DETOX and RETREAT – guests are invited to complement and extend the festivities, embrace the essence of Trinidad & Tobago and achieve their desired results.

Utilizing elements indigenous to Trinidad & Tobago as well as results-oriented, international products, our expert staff at Spa Esencia promote complete well-being and the quality of experience for each guest by further customizing treatments to meet individual needs.

46 HEALTH & BEAUTY

explore Woodland Village

Photo: Christopher Anderson

INS & OUTS

Divine Discoveries

By Sheldon Waithe

Variety, they say, is the spice of life. That being the case, Trinidad offers an assortment of must-see places across its wildly divergent regions, to satisfy that ingredient requirement and stir the senses.

50 EXPLORE

North Lopinot House

Houses don’t come more picturesque than this gem located in the Tunapuna area. With a museum full of historical artefacts within and manicured estate grounds outside, the guides will take you on a historical journey of the former cocoa estate, while Samaan trees provide nature’s shade as you picnic in the peaceful gardens. Across the sheltered wooden bridge, history, culture, fun and serenity awaits.

T: 799 9783

Paria Bay

The journey is equal to the destination with this hike through the North Coast Forest; both are breathtaking. Passing caves, natural arches, bridges and local wildlife on the way to the secluded Paria beach that is straight out of a movie. The two hour hike may seem daunting but it’s doable for the inexperienced and there’s the prospect of making it more worthwhile by camping at the final destination of unrefined beauty.

Shark River (Toco)

Stay calm; it’s not an invitation to go swimming with the infamous predators but rather the opportunity to experience the perfect mix of shallow water for wading and crystal clear deep water pools. This ‘liming spot’ near Matura has dedicated tables and seating for just that purpose while trees provide ample shade. There are also waterfalls to be found a short walk up the river for the explorers amongst you.

TOP Trail to Paragran Beach Photo: Christopher Anderson

BOTTOM LEFT TO RIGHT Turtle Rock, view from hike to Paria Bay and Waterfall Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Lopinot House Photo: Aarti Gosein

TOP RIGHT North Coast

Photo: Ziad Joseph

EXPLORE 51

INS &

North Mt Saint Benedict

The Benedictine monks picked the perfect perch for this 117 year old monastery. Epic views across Trinidad from upon high in the Northern Range reinforce the separation from the towns and cities below. Here, there is only serenity. Landscaped grounds, statues, a gift and tea shop selling jams and their famous Mount St Benedict yoghurt (produced in the same compound), add to the allure of this must-see historical site.

T: 662 2259 http://www.mountstbenedictabbey.org/

Queen’s Park Savannah

The ‘world’s largest roundabout’ is also the hub for everything cultural, social and sporting in Trinidad. If it’s happening in the Savannah, then it’s really happening!

Bordered by a mixture of historical buildings including the Magnificent Seven, and modern architecture such as the National Academy for Performance Arts, the 2.7 mile route is teeming with activity. There’s little wonder that it’s the centre of Carnival celebrations.

Downtown

The streets of Port of Spain are steeped in T&T’s colonial past, coupled with proof of the nation’s 21st century trajectory. Parliament, Ministries, Churches, Boulevards and the odd park adorn the area between the welcoming sea port and the ever expanding boundaries towards rural Trinidad. Bargains abound in the nation’s capital.

INS & OUTS

FROM THE TOP Easter Kite Flying in the Savannah Photo: Christopher Anderson

Poui trees in full bloom Photo: Aarti Gosein

52 EXPLORE

Barcant Butterfly Collection The Angostura Barcant Butterfly Collection lists approximately 5000 specimens of butterflies from all over the world, which includes over 600 different species of butterflies that make Trinidad and Tobago their home. Encased in wood and glass frames specifically created to preserve these delicate creatures, this unique collection also has on display some very rare, exotic and extraordinary butterflies, all of which can be viewed during a visit to the House of Angostura.

Museum Angostura opened its museum in 1999, to document and share the engaging history of the Siegert family. Included as part of the Angostura factory tour, thousands of visitors each year come to the museum to learn more about the almost 200 years of history of this iconic company, which holds a Royal Warrant from the Queen of England. A walk through the museum reveals much of the Siegert family’s stories, from our founder’s journey out of Germany after the Napoleonic War, to the town of Angostura in Venezuela, from there the family would move to Trinidad in the 1870s. An informative and entertaining experience for both locals and foreigners alike, the Angostura museum is a ‘one-of-a-kind’ attraction.

Contact details T: 623-1841 ext 255 E: rbetancourt@angostura.com FACEBOOK: AngosturaMuseum AndBarcantButterfly Collection/

Central Tamana Bat Caves

Reputed to be a coral reef that rose above ground over time, this remarkable site is home to over 67 species of bats. It’s a short hike up to Mount Tamana (308m above sea level) through bushes, going past the caves to catch the views of central Trinidad.

As dusk approaches, the delight is watching huge colonies of bats exit the caves en masse, changing the colour of the sky.

Temple in the Sea

It’s more than a shrine to Hinduism, it’s proof of perseverance. In Carapachima, this testament to love was built by one man - Siewdass Sadhu - not once, but twice, carrying stones by hand, on-foot and by bike, to the sea, after the first temple was destroyed, because he built it on government land. The result is a beautiful holy homage that transcends religion and radiates peace.

Caroni Swamp

Tucked away into a secluded corner of the island, this 12,000 acre sanctuary is home to the Scarlet Ibis and other exotic wildlife including caiman and boaconstrictors. Guides take you along the wetland in flat bottomed boats, where the real thrill is the afternoon arrival of the Scarlet Ibis, their red hue a reminder of nature’s remarkable paintbrush.

Hanuman Temple

The intricate artwork of the 85 foot statue of the Hindu warrior Hanuman that towers over this site is homage to the architectural style of South India. The beauty extends across the impeccably kept grounds with equally impressive detail on the smaller statues of this active temple. Ample parking and a gift shop complete the amenities of this popular Carapachima location.

INS & OUTS

FROM TOP Flamingos in Caroni Swamp

OPPOSITE PAGE L’eau Michel Mud Volcano

Hanuman Temple

Kayaking

Photo: Stephen Jay Photography

Photo: Shaun Rambaran

Donny’s Pottery

54 SECTION NAME HERE

Photo: Shaun Rambaran

Photo: Caribbean Discovery Tours

Photo: Christopher Anderson

Pottery in Chaguanas

Photo: Caribbean Discovery Tours

South San Fernando Hill

A sacred Amerindian site, this 192m hill is now a landscaped hub with flowers, trees, footpaths, a cafeteria and picnic tables, making it the perfect open air veranda. You’ll need to drive up the steep slopes, but ample parking is provided at the top, where cool breezes, play areas for the kids and a 360 degree view of south Trinidad await. For more Information call 653-9563.

L’eau Michel Mud Volcano

Near the sea in Penal and accessible via the winding drive of Bunsee Trace, is the ‘floating volcano’. So called because of the uncanny sensation bathers experience when they take a dip into its main pool, this is T&T’s natural spa. Enshrined by teak trees and cane fields, the multi-coloured clay soil gives way to the circular opening that is inviting and uncertain in equal measure. A must try for all!

Wild Fowl Trust

For over 50 years this conservation site has welcomed students, teachers, enthusiasts, tourists and nature lovers. It’s an oxymoron, a wetland haven immersed in T&T’s oil heartland, Point-a-Pierre. Stroll through the home of many endangered species of birds, or take a boat out onto the two small ponds.

The landscaped beauty offers endless exploration possibilities, while the Learning Centre, Museum and Conference area provides educational and hosting opportunities.

SECTION NAME HERE 55

INS &

East

Keshorn Walcott Toco Lighthouse

Like the athlete whose name it bears (the 2012 Olympic Javelin Gold medallist), this 72m tower of strength has a wide outlook onto the world from its Galera Point perch on the very tip of Eastern Trinidad. The rocks below dissipate into the blue waters where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. Tranquillity is provided by the surrounding picnic area and amenities.

Brasso Seco

This village is the base from which hikers, nature lovers and global scientists explore the cocoa cultivation and rainforest of the Arima/Blanchisseuse area. Fantastically popular with birdwatchers, the lush topography consists of rivers, waterfalls, ponds, while the country’s tallest peak, El Cerro del Aripo, is both imposing and picturesque. Within the village that is of Amerindian origin, accommodation, food and hospitality await.

Nariva Swamp

A nucleus of forest, mangrove, fauna and wildlife, it’s little wonder that this area of Eastern Trinidad has been declared a Wetland of International Importance.

Monkeys in the trees above, ‘caiman’ in the river below, ocelots and anacondas roaming the forest; there is an abundance of nature everywhere you turn. Access is available by hiking on foot or taking a small boat.

For info on permission and guided tours call 662-5114.

INS & OUTS

FROM THE TOP Melons on sale in Manzanilla Photo: Christopher Anderson

Nariva Swamp

Photo: Stephen Jay Photography

56 EXPLORE

Asa Wright Nature Centre (868) 667-4655 reservations@asawright.org | www.asawright.org Located in Arima, 1,200 feet above sea level, the Asa Wright Nature Centre is a not-for-profit Trust. A plantation house in the midst of a rainforest in excess of 1,300 acres. It has celebrated 52 years as a self-sustained Eco-lodge and Nature Centre. Full of rich history, it pursues its mission of conservation and protection of habitat and watersheds in the Arima Valley. Its research station hosts graduate studies and the Centre carries out community outreach via their education programs. A birder’s paradise that is family oriented.

Reservations are required, so call for details of accommodation, daily tours, lunches, conferences and small events.

EXPLORE 57

INS &

INS & OUTS

West Chaguaramas

The very Western tip of the island is one of the nation’s playgrounds. It’s a landscape that offers all the ‘ings’: hiking, biking, running, fishing, farming, climbing, exploring, swimming, kayaking, zip-lining, go-carting, liming and dining. The development of fun parks such as Five Islands and Skallywag Bay as well as the Boardwalk, make this leisure capital a source of unlimited joy for all ages. www.chaguaramas.com

Chaguaramas Radar station

Known as the ‘Tracking Station’ this abandoned site is testament to ages gone by: the Cold War era that facilitated the need of the station and the American occupation of the western peninsula. Getting there is a joy, through howler monkey habitats in the trees above, past old munitions buildings along a mixture of paved and gravel inclines. The plateau final destination is a great location to catch the sunset.

T: 225 4232

Covigne River Gorge

FROM THE TOP Chaguaramas

Photo: Ronald Daniel

Bamboo Cathedral, Chaguaramas Photo: Aarti Gosein

58 EXPLORE

Through this 30 foot high Tucker Valley gorge is an invigorating trek for all ages and one that is very popular with local hikers. The one hour journey through the old cocoa and nutmeg plantation takes you along the Cuesa river in search of the rejuvenating plunge pool and waterfall that is the end goal. It involves a rope assisted climb at the end so wear proper hiking footwear. T: 225 4232

Get ready for a

TRINIDAD ADVENTURE!

At the very end of the scenic Tucker Valley Road in Trinidad lies picturesque Macqueripe Bay. It is in the midst of this beautiful setting that you can find Zip ITT Adventure Tours, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s premier eco-facilities boasting a host of activities from trail biking and snorkelling to a dedicated kids park and thrilling zip lines.

You can experience over 2600 feet of zip lining including an incredible 800-foot line that will take you on a breath-taking ride across Macqueripe Bay. Take a trail bike tour to visit the amazing “Bamboo Cathedral” or explore numerous off-road trails, all accompanied by expert local guides. Zip ITT also provides everything you might need to explore the waters of the bay, from life vests to snorkels and fins. If you’ve never been, there’s no better time to visit, and if you have, it’s time to explore everything new we have to offer. Happy adventuring!

Zip-ITT Adventure Tours

Macqueripe Bay, Chaguaramas zipittadventuretours@gmail.com www.zipitt.net @TrinidadZipitt Call 1 (868) 303 7755 to book today

Our Kids’ Play Park and Zip Line is perfect for budding adventurers from the ages of 3 to 9, where fun and safety are our number one priority.

Facilities are also available for corporate retreats and team-building, multiple outdoor areas for activities and fully catered lunches.

SECTION NAME HERE 59

INS &

Homecoming

NATIONAL ARCHITECTURAL GEMS BROUGHT BACK TO LIFE

By Paul Hadden

Keeping a nation’s history alive is no easy task. Thankfully, many of the most iconic spots in our nation’s capital have either recently undergone repairs, or are on the brink of having their renovations completed.

First on the agenda is a stroll through Woodfood Square, which has stood in the nation’s capital since 1797. In the middle of the 20th century, the square became a gathering point for the populace, and it was here that Dr. Eric Williams, the nation’s first prime minister, would deliver illuminating lectures on leadership, constitutional reform, and the importance of good governance. One of the key features of this popular spot is a recently renovated fountain depicting the Greek goddess Aphrodite and her son Eros.

Right on the border of Woodford Square sits the Red House, the seat of parliament of Trinidad and Tobago, and a stunning example of colonial architecture. The Red House is no stranger to repairs,

after having to be rebuilt after it was destroyed by a fire in the 20th century, and is a living testament to much political intrigue and turmoil. Current restoration of the building is now entering into its final stages and soon the magnificent structure will once again be opened to the public.

As you head out from the heart of downtown and move towards the stunning Queen’s Park Savannah, you will be able to witness the Magnificent Seven, a collection of unique and dramatic colonial style buildings which line the western side of the park.

Among these, two have recently undergone extensive renovations, restoring them to their former glory and ensuing their lasting place in our nation’s built heritage. The oldest of the bunch is Castle Killarney,

Castle Killarney

Photos: Richard Lyder

BOTTOM RIGHT Woodford Square Fountain Photo: Shaun Rambaran

INS & OUTS

formerly known as Stollmeyer’s Castle, a historic house said to be modeled after a wing of Balmoral Castle in Aberdeen, Scotland. The magnificent structure was partly crafted from blue limestone found in the hills of Laventille, Trinidad, and many skilled local labourers, also from Laventille, were employed in the construction of the building. Although closed for many years, this unique building now often opens its doors to the public for tours and viewings, and is also host to numerous events, film viewings, and art and cultural exhibitions.

Right next to the castle, stands Whitehall, built over a century ago by Joseph Leon Agostini. The building, which was inspired by architectural styles popular on the island of Corsica, has served many purposes throughout its lifetime including office to the nation’s first prime minister, as well as a military base for the United States Army during World War II. Originally named Rosenweg meaning ‘the way of the roses’ for the soft pink wash used to colour the exterior, it was eventually renamed Whitehall, owing to the brilliant white imported Bajan limestone from which its walls are built. There are those who say that the ghost of Leon Agostini still haunts the building, mourning the loss of his mansion, and that his spirit can be seen at night, wandering around the large wrap-around verandah encircling most of Whitehall. As of August, 2019, after a hiatus of ten years, the Office of the Prime Minister was once again moved to this spectacular building.

All that is needed to view these important sites is a few hours of your time, and a comfortable pair of walking shoes. Feel free to end your tour with a refreshing ice cold coconut, readily available at the Savannah.

FROM THE TOP Whitehall, Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago Red House

Photos: Richard Lyder

62 SECTION NAME HERE

NATURAL DISASTERS are severe and unpredictable

There’s really not much we can do about them except get out of their way or prepare as best we can to withstand them. Here are a few tips: 1

2

3

STORE VALUABLES IN A DISHWASHER: Your dishwasher is built to keep water in, so it will also keep water out. Items like photo albums or legal documents, place in there to keep them dry.

THINK ‘PICNIC’, NOT ‘EMERGENCY’: When shopping for food reserves, many people flock to crackers and canned food. However, there are many meals you can prepare and store without electricity. Many fruits and vegetables don’t require refrigeration, other items include mayonnaise and mustard.

FREEZE WATER IN GALLON BAGS: If the grocery is out of water and you don’t have a proper storage container, fill gallon-sized plastic bags with water and freeze them. If the power goes out, your freezer will stay cold longer and you’ll have some drinking water stored.

4

5

6

USE DISPOSABLE PLATES AND CUPS: Don’t waste an already limited water supply cleaning dishes! You want to be environmentally friendly, yes, but paper will decompose over time, and a few won’t hurt if it’s for your well-being.

THINK BEYOND THE SUPERMARKET: If your supermarket is sold out of everything, remember that homeimprovement, office supply, and electronics stores sell items like water, batteries, flashlights, and other things you may need.

TURN YOUR WASHING MACHINE INTO A COOLER: Fill it with ice and put your perishables there in a power outage.

Whilst these hacks may be useful, having Home and Contents insurance is a must. It may not seem that way at first, but insurance is a silver lining in unforeseen circumstances. With Beacon’s Home and Contents insurance products, you can choose to protect buildings or contents individually, both buildings and contents as a package. Log on to our website any time for a competitive quote on insurance that protects the daily comforts you enjoy.

IT’S WHAT’S INSIDE THAT COUNTS

And what’s inside is covered by

BEACON CONTENTS INSURANCE • Choose the package that’s right for you!

• Cover your Furniture, Electronics, Appliances and more!

• Get up to $800,000 in cover for less than $3,400/year!

• Sign up in minutes! *special conditions apply

Call us at 6BEACON or log on to beacon.co.tt for a quote today!

SECTION NAME HERE 63

INS &

Marianne Beach

Maracas Bay

Las Cuevas

Photo: Damian Luk Pat

Photo: Christopher Anderson

Photo: Ziad Joseph

INS & OUTS

64 SECTION NAME HERE

Beach LIFE Las Cuevas Bay

Photo: Ziad Joseph

Paria Beach

Yarra North Coast

Matura Bay

Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Photo: Devan Mulchansingh

Photo: Ziad Joseph

SECTION NAME HERE  65

INS &

beaches Las Cuevas

One of the most pristine beaches on the island, the crystal-clear waters, almond trees, sand runners and meandering Cuaragate River, along with modern amenities, makes this bay a welcome retreat.

Maracas Bay

Nestled between lush headlands, enjoy the delicious ‘Shark and Bake’ sandwich after a leisurely stroll along the coconut-fringed beach and a refreshing swim. But take care as the crested breakers may reach as high as 1.5 metres.

Marianne

The secluded Marianne fishing village is perfect for a family outing: go fishing and then kayaking on the Bamboo bordered river, or enjoy a swim in the calm waters of the lagoon.

Matura Bay

This expansive beach, along with Grande Riviere, are well known turtle nesting sites for the Leatherback Turtles between the months of March - August. A permit is required from the Forestry Division for viewing.

Las Cuevas

Photo: Brendan Delzin

INSET Paria Arch

Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Paria Bay

After a challenging hike off of the Blanchisseuse Road, the stunning vista of its trademark arch, white sands and turquoise waters and the cascading waterfall nearby, make it all worthwhile.

Yarra

Located after La Fillette, this secluded hide-away offers aquamarine waters in a bay protected by monumental rocks, the remnants of a promontory. The bay opens out to white sands, closer to the Yarra River.

TT RideShare

ZM Executive Transport

support@ttrideshare.com | www.ttrideshare.com

(868) 728-8146/359-2649 zmexecutivetransport@gmail.com www.zmexecutivetransport.com

Every day our drivers’ commitment to our clients’ safety and positive ride experience is a testimony to our philosophy of partnership. Consequently, TT Rideshare has become the first choice of riders in households and businesses across Trinidad & Tobago, whose expectations for safety, quality service, competitive pricing and a great ride experience are met.

We value our clients as our partners and best brand ambassadors. Together with our drivers YOU make our dream of delivering a high-quality transport solution service a reality.

Get 10% off your first ride with the promo code: TT10

We offer a professional taxi service for your every demand, 24/7.

Our staff is thoroughly screened, whereby we require a certificate of character and defensive driving certificate. All chauffeurs are professionally attired. Our services include: • Airport pick-up and drop-off • Tours • Business meeting and corporate transfers • Free Wi-Fi • Easy payment options: Cash (US or TT), Credit/Debit card (VISA, MASTERCARD, LINX) • Car seat available on request

T&T Tourist Transport Service

Econo Car Rentals Ltd

(868) 623-4419 After 3:00 pm (868) 683-7934; Fax (868) 624-5016 touristtransport1@flowtrinidad.com | www.ttttsa.com

(868) 226-4CAR; 226-RENT rentals@econocartt.com | econocar.rentals

The Trinidad and Tobago Tourist Transport Service Association has been providing reliable and efficient transport services for over 20 years. We offer a 24/7 service for all popular sites and attractions in Trinidad, as well as airport transfers, special functions, weddings, funerals, meetings and conferences, schools, turtle watching (by request) and more. We have a membership of approximately 225 drivers/guides who are trained in basic tour guiding skills, defensive driving and First Aid with C.P.R. We have public liability insurance coverage.

Affordable Car Rental with Econo Car! At Econo we offer the best value car rental for your pocket. Whether for a holiday, business trip, or when your car is in for repairs, our car hire service will have you behind the wheel in a car to suit your needs at the lowest cost on the market. All our rentals include: • Unlimited mileage • 24/7 roadside assistance • Insurance • A full tank of gas upon collection We have a wide selection of vehicles at our offices in Piarco, POS, Tobago and Chaguaramas for your convenience.

EXPLORE 67

INS &

waterfalls IN TRINIDAD

By Sheldon Waithe

Fun Fact

Trinidad’s northern range has the majority of the falls, with Paria and Rincon being the A 250-ft cascade, most popular. To discover these cascades requires considerable hiking, with the former Rincon is the taking you along the Caribbean Sea coastline largest waterfall and the latter nestled deep in the forests near in the country.

Las Cuevas. Rincon is a massive 250ft fall, the largest in the country.

Adding to the monopoly, the Brasso Seco area near Arima, has eleven falls, the best of which is aptly named the Jewel of Brasso.

From 70 feet above, water drops into the small freshwater pool, giving bathers the choice of a relaxing dip after the short hike past some of the smaller waterfalls in the area, or taking a natural massage against its gigantic rock face.

Reaching both Angel and Matura Falls is more difficult, requiring rope for tricky descents to Angel and time (three hours worth) for Matura. As ever, the journey is worth it, with a veritable oasis below El Tucuche mountain creating an unforgettable visit to Angel. The surroundings at Matura are even more picturesque: a natural infinity pool that cascades over limestone rocks creating a colourful spectacle aided by sunlight.

Less arduous, Edith Falls is a calm, flat 30 minute walk through Chaguaramas; its 250 metre waterfall is also enhanced by fellow visitors - parrots and howler monkeys - seeking the same amazing refreshment courtesy of Mother Nature.

ON LEFT Avocat Waterfall, Blanchisseuse

Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

RIGHT Capuchin Monkeys

Photo: Stephen Broadbridge

business Photo: Ronald Daniel

INS & OUTS

A melting pot of

CULTURE Trinidad and Tobago is a melting pot of culture, because of its diverse ethnic and historical background.

Our cultural traditions are rooted in struggle, perseverance and passion, heavily influenced by our African and East Indian ancestry.

Playing ‘mas’ is a celebrated and cherished tradition, particularly at the junior level where the fun is at its most unadulterated and the benefit at its most pure. The Republic Bank Junior Parade of the Bands allows children to actively participate in this tradition. Similarly, they are afforded the opportunity to learn traditional mas-making artistry from veterans in the business through the Republic Bank/National Carnival Bands Association (NCBA) Mas Academy Outreach Programme. It is hoped that through these initiatives, a love for culture will be ingrained in the nation’s youth that will carry through to adulthood.

A core facet of Carnival is the steelpan. The steelpan was created in Trinidad and Tobago in the 1930’s and is the only musical instrument invented in the 20th century. The steelpan is now synonymous

72 SECTION NAME HERE

with the entire Caribbean. The Republic Bank Exodus Steel Orchestra has won the Trinidad and Tobago National Panorama competition four times and has taken steelpan to the world, performing on stages as far away as Japan. The Band has also been the recipient of various awards and accolades.

On the junior level, the Republic Bank Pan Minors Music Literacy Programme engages primary and secondary school students in 30 hours of formal music training over a 3-week period each year. The programme, in collaboration with the Department of Creative and Festival Arts at the University of the West Indies, teaches students to read, score and eventually compose steelpan music of their own.

Republic Bank’s commitment to culture, and its development, stems from our overarching vision of preserving traditions for future generations so that they can continue to confidently champion cultural excellence.

Collectively the support of these activities, under the Power to Make a Difference programme, has a time-tested ability to build bridges across the boundaries of space and culture. We continue to work alongside our partners to preserve, protect and promote the cultural traditions that form the fabric of who we are as a people in the interest of building strong, sustainable societies.

SECTION NAME HERE  73

INS &

Tel: (868) 680-6732 Email: contact@homeworktt.com Website: homeworktt.com FB: @ homeworkdesignstudio Ins: @homework_design_studio

Photo: Kerron Riley

Photos: Brian Lewis

Chaos

INS & OUTS

is my friend

By Kieran Andrew Khan

74 BUSINESS

Randall Waddell has crossed the country and parts of the Caribbean creating innovative interiors and reinventing spaces for residential and commercial use for the past decade as the Principal Designer for HomeWork Design Studio. A Member of The American Society of Interior Designers and an approved Interior Designer of the HGTV Professional Designer Network, his love for this craft is an innate one; a passion born in his youth and moulded through careful study and practice to become his life’s work.

“From as early as I could remember, I liked drawing houses and plans, but what I enjoy the most is the fact that what I do brings joy to other people. I love interacting with clients, hearing the plans they have and bringing it to fruition,” Randall explained during a short break from his work on a residential property. “While some designers may shy away from doing residential interior design – I love it. The emotional connection

Preferred Suppliers of Homework Design Studio

LUXURY FINISHES DESIGN CENTRE Suite M1, Lot 4 Diamond Vale Industrial Estate Diego Martin, Trinidad Tel: 868-222-9198 info@luxuryfinishestt.com www.luxuryfinishestt.com @ luxuryfinishestt

NOVA LIGHTING A member of the American Lighting Association 18 Rust Street, St. Clair, Trinidad Tel: 868-628-5483 (LITE) 868-622-0897 Email: NovaLtd@HadcoLtd.com Website: www.NovaLightTT.com

PARTS WORLD LIMITED 155A Eastern Main Road Barataria, Trinidad Tel: 868-638-1277, 2116, 2570 Fax: 868-638-3414 Email: barataria@partsworldlimited.com Website: https://partsworldlimited.com Facebook and Twitter: @partsworldltd

SHADES DESIGNS LTD Suite M7, MKM Industrial Plaza Lot 4A, Diamond Vale Industrial Estate Diego Martin, Trinidad Tel: 868-225-7818 info@shadesltd.com www.shadesltd.com @shadestt https://www.instagram.com /shadesdesignsltd/

TILE WAREHOUSE LP #61 Limehead Road, Chase Village, Chaguanas, Trinidad Tel: 868- 671 TILE (8453) or 868-671 4151 sales@tile-warehouse.net www.tilewarehousett @tilewarehouse

INS & OUTS

Photos: Brian Lewis

and investment that people make in their homes is something special with which to work,” he adds. A graduate of The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, his creative process has remained relatively unchanged over the years – he allows the location, space or home (in the case of a renovation) to tell its own story.

“It’s almost as if a movie starts to play in my mind when I’m in a space – I let the house, in a sense, speak to me. I consider the function of the space, and I get to work with my pad and start sketching.”

HomeWork Design Studio partners with a careful selection of contractors, suppliers, labourers and artisans. “Every project is driven by teamwork. I visit suppliers around the country almost weekly as each project has different requests and demands. I depend on my contractors and my suppliers to work cohesively to create a successful project. After all, creating an idea is one thing, but how you put it all together is another story! My contractors and suppliers are the most important pieces to the puzzle – absolute musts.”

As at least a dozen workers proceed rapidly to complete a range of tasks with this latest renovation, Randall seems to thrive in the midst of it all. What seems like chaos is where Randall thrives. “Chaos is my friend – without chaos, we would be bored.

There is good and bad chaos, of course, but in any aspect of life where there is disorder – it means that things are changing.

Chaos can be a good thing – it brings transformation,” he points out.

For anyone considering creating a new space or a new home, he actively encourages them to note what they like in the homes they’ve seen or visited and identify what works best. “Trends will date. Instead think of how you would like to use your home – after all, function follows form in design. Find ways to mix the traditional aspects with the contemporary – so what you invest in is also timeless and is an investment in your happiness too.”

76 BUSINESS

Gold Medal for the “Rhythms of Our People”

By Tevin R. Gall

After a five-year hiatus at the 2019 Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Flower

Show, emerging triumphant and bringing home a gold medal.

The team, comprising Bernard Beckles, Nigel Cornwall, Joan Hampton, Jemma Lewis, Tony Tankai, and Shane Valentine, overcame a series of hurdles to win at this acclaimed competition.

Bernard Beckles, veteran florist and owner of St James flower shop, La Tropicale related the bizarre string of events that led to the award.

The trouble began when the team learned that the bamboo stalks necessary for the display were three feet too long for the aircraft. With limited funding and without some of the material needed to bring his original concept to life, Beckles, whose team also took home the gold medal in 2013, tapped into some spur-of-the-moment creativity. “I had to walk about the compound and pick up discarded things,” he admitted.

Inspired by Rudder’s ‘Calypso Music’, the display,

entitled, ‘Rhythms of Our People,’ reflects the nation’s ethnic and cultural influences, playing on the dual theme of the sacred and the profane. The former, represented by the altar base, the latter by the Carnival and the African drums, the tabla and the steelpan. The driftwood represents Tobago, while the influences of the Spanish and French are also present.

Beckles cited Trinidad and Tobago’s decision to host CARIFESTA XIV as yet another inspiration.

Beckles relayed the joy of seeing expat Trinbagonians’ pride at the team’s participation and subsequent win. “Some of these people haven’t been home in [decades],” he explained.

“Representatives [from other countries] were curious as to how to get [certain plants],” Beckles related. “That made me respect my country more.

We don’t appreciate what we have in front of us.”

EXPLORE 77

INS &

INS & OUTS

FIRST CITIZENS TAKES AIM AT GENDER BASED ISSUES

By Kieran Andrew Khan

With an established women’s conference and a credit card aimed at raising awareness and funds towards reducing violence against women, First Citizens turned its attention to the 13-18 year old, female demographic in 2017. Under the direction of Karen Darbasie, Group CEO, this innovative financial institution created the Girls First initiative to reach this younger female audience. This was done through a series of Girls’ First Festivals, with the inaugural held in Tobago in that year.

With gender-based violence a continued cause for concern nationally, First Citizens Bank aimed to take the conversation nationwide, eventually hosting Girls’ First Festivals across the country between 2017 and 2018. These events included fun and engaging plenary sessions, workshops and presentations including self-defence, health and wellness, peer pressure, fashion and image, sex education and of course financial literacy, among others. Well-known local female personalities also shared their stories with the young audience in a bid to guide and motivate the all-female attendees. With significant feedback over the two-year period, the Group then set about to create Girls First Ambassadors to spread the vision and ethos of the movement, year-round.

78 BUSINESS SECTION NAME HERE

According to a representative of the Group, “When you add up all the ambassadors, you would have a pool of young women that can share this knowledge with their friends and family members. There is nothing like this happening consistently and given that one of the pillars at First Citizens is the advancement of women – what better way to complement our Women First initiative? With any major initiative that we embark on or engage in, the question for us is ‘Did we move the needle?’ or ‘Did we make an impact?’ and that’s what we aim to do with Girls First and Women First.”

The latter programme’s current theme is Changing the Narrative and coincides with the relaunch of their Purple Card. That card allows holders to make small but meaningful monthly payments from TT$25 to $100 to contribute to help reduce and end domestic violence against women and children. The card is the only one of its kind locally, and all funds go toward NGOs that champion ending violence against women.

INS & OUTS

L-R: Keenan Lezama Pastry, Gerard Cox Team Chef, Isaiah Trumpet Bartender, Jodi Eversley Junior Chef, Shonelle Greenidge Team Chef & Jeremy Lovell Team Captain.

Young Chefs and Bartenders

Triumph in Miami

By Tevin R. Gall

Our vibrancy and creativity continues to make waves internationally, this time, through our eclectic local cuisine. The 2019 National Culinary

Team,

led

by

Jeremy Lovell triumphed at the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s ‘Taste of the Caribbean’ Competition in June 2019, took

home

the

silver

medal in the Team of the Year

category,

among

other prizes.

80 SPECIAL EVENTS

Held at the Hyatt Regency in Miami, Florida, the competition called for recipes of the region’s rich culinary culture. The T&T team did not disappoint, presenting exciting renderings of local dishes, much to the delight of the judges.

Among the participants of the individual categories, Jodi Eversley copped the gold medal in the Junior Chef competition, while Isaiah Trumpet took home a gold medal in the Non-Alcoholic Cocktail competition, as well as a silver medal as Best Overall Bartender, after noteworthy performances in the Vodka Cocktail, Rum Cocktail and Mystery Bar competitions. Keenan Lezama won the bronze medal for his offering in the Dessert competition.

The 2019 team joins a long list of national contenders in the competition, but what is particularly remarkable about the winners is that they were all students at the time of participation. The positive responses garnered by the judges stand not only as a testament to the wide appeal of our national delicacies, but as a salute to the training undertaken at the Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (TTHTI).

The Trinidad Hotels, Restaurant and Tourism Association (THRTA) has been active in ensuring that teams from Trinidad and Tobago take part in the annual competition, and that their efforts create the opportunities for exposure for young homegrown culinary and bartending talent, which can be seen in the hundreds of medals won at the competition since 1997.

Special events

By Roslyn Carrington

While many venues welcome large groups for major celebrations such as weddings and reunions, there are ample opportunities for smaller, more intimate gatherings. An evening out with the girls, an office team-building session, or a tea party with a Caribbean twist, the good news is that there are many venues that offer event planning and will take the burden off your shoulders.

One special sanctuary that comes to mind is Glamorgan, a charming colonial building in St. Augustine, set in the shade of a sprawling 100-yearold Samaan tree. It’s the perfect spot for a small wedding or afternoon tea. You can even join them for yoga in the lush garden.

Event catering and coordination? No problem. GCG Events, experienced event planners and caterers, will swoop in and arrange everything. For something different, El Pecos will bring your every culinary desires to your doorstep.

So gather your friends and loved ones, call in your crew, and host your next event!

SPECIAL EVENTS  81

INS &

stay in style

Photo: Patricia Lewis

INS & OUTS

Hyatt Regency Trinidad (868) 623-2222 (868) 821-6401 (Fax) 1 Wrightson Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I. trirt.reservation@hyatt.com (Reservations) trinidad.regency.hyatt.com Situated in the heart of downtown Port of Spain on the waterfront, Hyatt Regency Trinidad sets the standard for a new level of comfort, service and convenience among Trinidad hotels. Upgraded in 2017, facilities offer a 423-room hotel with 15 suites and 43,000 square feet of meeting and event space, catering to business, convention and leisure travellers. The re-designed rooms, lobby, lounge, bar, sushi bar and Waterfront Restaurant with smart furnishings including an additional sofa bed and a 65” TV, and lower terrace seating, provide the perfect environment for you to relax and unwind away from home. Re-energise in our newly enhanced Spa Esencia and rooftop infinity pool with beautiful panoramic views of the Gulf. Wi-Fi is complimentary to all our guests. Visit our Waterfront Garden Retreat where fresh herbs and vegetables are picked daily and used in our food and beverage offerings.

Acajou Hotel (868) 670-3771; (868) 670-4566 (Fax) Grande Rivière, Trinidad, W.I. info@acajoutrinidad.com | www.acajoutrinidad.com

Acajou is a small, eco-friendly, family-operated hotel situated on the beautiful and dramatic northern coast of Trinidad in a small fishing village called Grande Rivière. The hotel is built as a group of traditional cottages nestled between the beach, a crystal clear river and lush rainforest-covered mountains.

What makes Grande Rivière unique is the hundreds of endangered leatherback turtles that nest here every year, from March until August.

Please visit www.tripadvisor.com for unbiased reviews about Acajou Hotel.

Tradewinds Hotel (868) 652-9463 36–38 London Street, St. Joseph Village, San Fernando, Trinidad delia@tradewindshotel.com | www.tradewindshotel.com

Situated in the breezy residential area of St. Joseph Village, San Fernando, Tradewinds Hotel has been owned and operated by the Laing family since 1990.

The 41–room “Home Away From Home” boasts friendly, helpful and courteous staff and an efficient management team. Rooms are spacious and fully equipped with minibar, cable TV, air-conditioning, safes and complimentary Wi-Fi. Other facilities include the newly opened Offside Restaurant & Sports Bar and Bottles & Bites Sushi & Tapas Restaurant, conferencing, mini-mart, gym with state-ofthe-art equipment and instructors on site and swimming pool. Only 800 metres away from Caribbean Cinemas 10/South Park Shopping Plaza.

84 STAY IN STYLE

SECTION NAME HERE  85

INS &

INS & OUTS

Royal Hotel Tel (868) 652-4881 46–54 Royal Road, San Fernando, Trinidad www.royalhoteltt.com

Royal Hotel has the charm of a bygone era, with the conveniences of the modern world. We are known for our warm southern charm, an oasis conveniently located within the city of San Fernando.

We invite you to relax in any of our 62 spacious rooms, equipped with cable TV, air-conditioning, safes and free Wi-Fi, along with a complimentary continental breakfast. Visit our Landmark Bar or Pavilion Restaurant for a taste of an eclectic mix of local and international cuisine. Our conference and meeting rooms are ideal for hosting business events, cocktail parties and wedding receptions.

Hoping to see you soon!

Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre (868) 624 3211; (868) 624 4485 (Fax) 1B Lady Young Road, Belmont, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I. reservations.trinidad@hilton.com www.trinidad.hilton.com Located on a hilltop overlooking the iconic Queen’s Park Savannah, our hotel offers the ideal location for rest and relaxation. A truly unique Caribbean experience. Choose from any of our 405 rooms, all with private balconies featuring breathtaking views of the city and the Northern Range mountains.

Enjoy our fully renovated pool outfitted with private cabanas, fully equipped fitness center with spa and sauna facilities, or try one of our outdoor tennis courts. Indulge in an eclectic international and local menu at any of our restaurants and bars, whether you’re in the mood for an on-the-go snack, or something to keep your diet on track. Make your meetings memorable with one of our flexible meeting spaces with a maximum capacity of 1,000 persons.

Cara Suites Hotel & Conference Centre (868) 659-2271; (868) 659-2202 (Fax) Pointe-a-Pierre, Southern Main Road, Claxton Bay, Trinidad carasuitespap@carahotels.com www.carahotels.com Situated just a mere 20 minutes away from the city of San Fernando and Chaguanas and 15 minutes away from Point Lisas and Couva, we position you closest to some of the newest entertainment and sporting facilities such as South Park and Cinemas 8, C3 and MovieTowne, the Aquatic Centre and the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

Meticulously appointed hotel rooms with modern amenities, spacious conference and banqueting rooms ideal for almost any occasion, a fine dining restaurant, sunken lobby bar, outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre are available to you during your stay, whether you are travelling for business or leisure.

Allow yourself to experience…a Caribbean tradition in the making!

86 STAY IN STYLE

STAY IN STYLE  87

INS &

INS & OUTS

Courtyard By Marriott (868) 627-5555; (868) 627-6317 (Fax) Invader’s Bay, Audrey Jeffers Highway Port of Spain, Trinidad www.courtyardportofspain.com

Refresh your travel experience at the Courtyard by Marriott, Port of Spain.

This contemporary hotel features a re-designed lobby, restaurant, library and business centre. Our newly upgraded guest rooms and suites offer plush beds, large work desks with ergonomic task chairs, and free Internet access. The hotel is conveniently located 40 minutes from the international airport, just 10 minutes away from the city centre, and within walking distance of the MovieTowne Entertainment Complex and the Hasley Crawford National Stadium. Host a memorable meeting or business event in any of our versatile conference rooms; the perfect setting for a small business dinner or social gathering.

Kapok Hotel (868) 622-KPOK (5765) 16–18 Cotton Hill, St. Clair, Trinidad stay@kapokhotel.com | www.kapokhotel.com

Ideally located, minutes away from Port of Spain, banks, embassies, medical institutions, malls, the Queen’s Park Savannah and Queen’s Park Oval. Our boutique hotel features a range of rooms, including balcony suites with separate living areas and cosy studio rooms with kitchenettes. Amenities include room service, complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry services, gym, pool and two full-service restaurants. Visit KAVA, located lobby level, and enjoy an eclectic menu featuring artisan brick oven pizzas and classic cocktails, or experience an evening of fine dining at our Asian restaurant, Tiki Village, on the 8th floor, and witness one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the capital city.

Book online at www.kapokhotel.com for the best rate guaranteed.

Crews Inn Hotel and Yachting Centre (868) 607-4000 (option 2) (868) 634-4175 (Fax) Point Gourde, Chaguaramas, Trinidad, West Indies inquiries@crewsinn.com www.crewsinn.com

Snuggly nestled in a natural harbour, the CrewsInn Hotel and Yachting Centre is a welcoming haven for all our valued guests.

Enjoy all the amenities of our unique hotel amidst the warm and vibrant Caribbean décor that says, “Relax, make yourself at home”.

Forty-six, rooms all with a cosy private balcony view of our Marina; pool, conference centre, restaurant, bar, all carrying modern design and décor.

Located in Trinidad’s largest national park.

88 STAY IN STYLE

The Normandie Hotel (868) 624-1181-4 (868) 387-1244 10 Nook Avenue, St Ann’s, Port of Spain, Trinidad, West Indies reservations@normandiett.com www.normandiett.com

The Normandie Hotel is a boutique hotel designed by one of Trinidad’s most acclaimed architects, John Newel Lewis, and is known as a platform for culture, art and music. The spirit of its local warmth is nothing but charming.

Within its façade it houses a conference centre, restaurant, 83 rooms (40 of them poolside) carrying modern commodities, and a market place offering fashion, skin care, and bespoke local products.

Strategically situated in the heart of St. Ann’s, minutes away from the Queen’s Park Savannah and Port of Spain. Capture charisma, revisit the values of history.

Stay at The Normandie Hotel!

STAY IN STYLE 89

INS &

INS & OUTS

Par-May-La’s Inn & Sundeck Suites Par-May-La’s Inn: (868) 628-2008/5321 Fax (868) 628-4707 # 53 Picton Street, Newtown, Port of Spain, Trinidad reservation@parmaylas.com Sundeck Suites: (868) 622-9560/9561 Fax (868) 628-4707 # 42–44 Picton Street, Newtown, Port of Spain, Trinidad reservations@sundecktrinidad.com

At Par-May-La’s Inn and Sundeck Suites, each room has air-conditioning, private toilet and bath, hot and cold water, telephone and cable TV. Sundeck Suites also has kitchenette facilities and Par-May-La’s Inn offers a complimentary continental breakfast daily.

Both properties offer free Wi-Fi and are conveniently located, walking distance away from supermarkets, hair salons, banks, US, Canadian, and other embassies, the Queen’s Park Savannah and Oval, restaurants, medical facilities, mas camps and nightlife entertainment.

Le Grand Almandier (868) 670-1013/2294; (868) 670-2294 (Fax) 2 Hosang Street, Grande Rivière, Trinidad wendy18cudj@gmail.com www.legrandalmandier.com

Located 88 km from Piarco International Airport, Le Grand Almandier lies nestled between the almond trees and the beach. Here, the forested headlands border the magnificent coastline to the north and the majestic Grande Rivière River, from which the village gets its name, to the north-east. The perfect retreat to enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer: the birds, the wildlife, the nesting leatherback turtles, fishing, boat tours and waterfall tours. The ten tastefully decorated rooms and suites sleep two to six persons. The ideal choice for anyone in search of peace and serenity in completely natural surroundings.

The Cannons Hotels (868) 682-8126 1A Meerut Street, St. James, Trinidad, West Indies thecannonshotels@gmail.com | www.thecannonshotels.com WHY CHOOSE US? Location, Location, Location!

Your home away from home, The Cannons Hotels present an alternative take on accommodations by providing concierge services to you, our guest, with our personally tailored tours delivering safety, fun and the best value for your dollar!

Join us to explore the vibrant culture, cuisine, heritage and adventure of our twin-island republic.

Whether it’s for business or a fun getaway, our hotel is strategically located in St. James next to Long Circular Mall and in close proximity to the major city and shopping districts, supermarkets, banks, restaurants, the local entertainment scene and other conveniences! It gets better ... for an extended medical stay, our property is ideally outfitted to accommodate guests before, during and after health-related procedures. Come and experience for yourself the home-grown hospitality of our team. The Cannons Hotels ... Your Home, Away From Home!

90 STAY IN STYLE

Chaquacabana Resort & Beach Club (868) 634-4319; (868) 684-7011 Lp 165 Western Main Road, Chaguaramas, Trinidad, W.I. info@chaquacabana.com www.chaquacabana.com

Chaquacabana Resort and Beach Club is one of a kind in Trinidad. It is located in Chaguaramas, at the most westerly point of the island. The Resort spans 12.5 acres with a sloping hillside that envelops it to the north and absolute ocean to the south. It prides itself on Sea, Sun, Serenity & Stay. A few of the main attractions at the all-suite hotel are the ocean restaurants, biking, kayaking, and bird watching, and even great fishing is available on the expansive 1800 ft. boardwalk.

“It’ll be a great fun experience!”

Inna Citi Place Bed & Breakfast (868) 622-0415, WhatsApp (868) 683-6132 15 Gaston Johnson Street, Woodbrook, Port of Spain innacitiplace@yahoo.com www.inna-citi-place.com

At Inna Citi Place Bed & Breakfast, we offer a warm and friendly experience in a secure and comfortable environment. Rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, flat screen cable TVs, wireless Internet, ceiling fans, small refrigerators and ensuite bathroom. Comfort, service and great value characterize our offerings.

We are located just minutes away from some of the best-known entertainment centres of Port of Spain, One Woodbrook Place, St James, Ariapita Avenue and MovieTowne. We are a mere six minutes’ drive from the historic Queen’s Park Savannah and within walking distance of the Queen’s Park Oval, banks, shopping malls, supermarkets, restaurants, churches and panyards (Phase Two, Starlift, Invaders).

Amazing Properties (868) 709-6814 14 Fourth Street East, Roland Avenue, Trincity amazemeproperty@gmail.com

Amazing Properties takes the hassle away from your search for holiday villas, beach houses, resorts and airport shuttles. We offer real estate consultations, property management, residential sales and rentals, commercial sales and rentals and financial advice.

STAY IN STYLE 91

INS &

Bentley-Potter School of Dance Photo: Edison Boodoosingh

entertainment

Pas De Deux

THE BENTLEY-POTTER SCHOOL OF DANCE

meet a Trini

By Paul Hadden

INS & OUTS

The Bentley Potter School of Dance receiving a special award from the Mayor of Port-of-Spain for their contribution to the arts in Trinidad and Tobago. L-R: Director, Evelyn Bentley; Mayor Joel Martinez; and Director, Averil Potter.

For exactly half a century the Bentley-Potter School of Dance, founded by Averil Potter and Evelyn Bentley, has been helping to enrich the lives of thousands of girls (and eventually, they hope, boys) by introducing them to the world of classical dance.

The school, as well as its offshoot the Cascade Festival Ballet Company, has been instrumental in developing the arts, offering classes in both modern dance and jazz.

However, both of the founders emphasise that the main purpose of the school is not so much to train young girls for careers as professional ballerinas, though it has produced world class performers, as to instill in the students a love for the art form. Ballet, they explain, is not just something that the students practise for the hour and a half that they are in the studio, it is a way of life. They also proudly emphasise that classical ballet instills many positive qualities in the dancers - discipline, elegance, and timemanagement.

“Ballet has it all,” says Evelyn Bentley, “dance, music, costume design…and this is why we believe that so many parents continue to send their children to learn classical dance.”

94 ENTERTAINMENT

The school, while remaining faithful to the rigours of the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, also draws inspiration from the various art forms on the island. “While we remain primarily a school for teaching classical ballet,” explains Mrs. Potter, “we have a deep admiration for the local arts in Trinidad and love to interact with them as well. We also remain very involved with the many other schools here including the Caribbean School of Dancing.” Dance, they stress, is about community, and they both agree that many of their students consider the ballet studio to be their “second home,” one which many of their dancers will treasure for life. Both Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Bentley attest to the fact that throughout the changing seasons of their own lives, the one thing that has remained a constant source of joy and inspiration, is ballet. In a world where everything is in a constant state of flux, they offer many young people a priceless gift which brings a sense of community, consistency, and transcendence to their lives – the gift of dance. www.bentleypotter.com

Calling All Choirs THE MARIONETTES CHORALE JOINS PRODUCTION AT CARNEGIE HALL

By Tevin R. Gall For decades, national choirs have performed to foreign audiences to great acclaim, so it was no surprise when the Marionettes Chorale received an invitation to join a mass choir for a performance of Christopher Tin’s Grammy Award-winning composition, Calling All Dawns. The show’s producers had come across the choir’s rendition of one of the composer’s pieces on YouTube and booked them for the concert on June 9, 2019 in Carnegie Hall.

Over the years, the choir has caught the attention of many renowned composers, including John Rutter and Andrew Carter, and has played to audiences across the Caribbean and Central America, the United States and the United Kingdom since its inception in 1963.

Assistant Artistic Director, Caroline Taylor spoke about the experience and what the invitation meant to the group. “It wasn’t something that we were expecting at all, it was a nice validation that we performed well and that all our hard work had paid off.”

The performance, held at the historic Hall, allowed the choir to collaborate with some of the world’s top choristers and musicians.

Taylor explained that while the group is a community choir, the members, under the baton of Musical and Artistic Director Gretta Taylor, strive for a professional brand of perfection.

“To their credit, the members took it very seriously, and we were, in some ways, one of the best-prepared groups,” she revealed. “People can see locally that we’re...[aiming] to set a standard, and it manifests in the product if people get it right.”

With the desire to maintain the high quality of their artistry, the choir made sure to benefit from working up close and personal with the two-time Grammy winner. Tin shared stories of his inspiration for the piece, an invaluable experience for the group’s future plans.

The Carnegie Hall trip marks the choir’s first overseas performance in over a decade, which perhaps augurs well for future appearances abroad. Taylor explained that not only is touring a costly endeavour, but syncing members’ schedules--especially the younger ones--often proves to be a challenge.

Still, the work continues: Taylor let on that the producers of the concert are mounting a production in Lincoln Centre next year. www.marionetteschorale.com

Photo: Marlon Rouse

SECTION NAME HERE 95

INS &

jazz in Trinidad & Tobago

By Tevin R. Gall

In a country where musical traditions are rooted in soulful rhythms and improvised melodies, jazz influences continue to capture the imagination of composers, artists and concert producers in Trinidad and Tobago. Chantal Esdelle, seasoned pannist, keyboardist, ethnomusicologist and founder of the Ethnic Jazz Club on Cornelio Street in Woodbrook shared her thoughts on the recent rise in these events. “‘Jazz’ is really an imperial Western way of labelling African [musical] expression in the Americas. It’s an umbrella term.” She continues, “It’s always easiest to [use that label]. We have to use another name to call the things that happen outside of calypso and soca.”

Fair enough, as most of the artists featured at the annual Tobago Jazz Festival--names like Toni Braxton, Lauryn Hill and Chaka Khan--are more Top 40 than ‘pure’ jazz. But while this may be true, their music does lend to a certain openness of expression: the artist and band are often led by the mood of the audience, while the music is peppered with improvisational riffs, using rich, layered harmonies. And that’s where the ‘jazz’ element comes in. Esdelle explains that what’s important is that the patrons can relate to the music.

“That’s the connecting thread, the thing that makes it enjoyable.”

But for a diverse people such as ourselves, can there be such a thing as ‘pure’ jazz? Esdelle explains that the jazz from each culture is different, as it takes on the influences of that culture. “Kaiso and soca inspire the jazz that we do.”

All the same, Esdelle explains that those who label themselves as jazz performers “try to be specific in what we’re doing.” She clarified, “It’s necessary to give another context.” These are the artists, like herself, who play to smaller crowds that actively seek out jazz performers. “The audiophiles...and [people who] don’t necessarily have to sing along.”

A chat with jazz vocalist Vaughnette Bigford gave more insight into the local jazz scene: “Jazz on the Greens is the staple event for the year.” North Coast Jazz, held in Blanchisseuse is “one of the newer [events] but is special [in how it] celebrates local artists and musicians.”

Bigford also produces her own annual event, the VSpot Semi-Inclusive Jazz experience, held at Clifton Hill Manor during Point Fortin Borough Day’s celebrations.

Undoubtedly, the richness of our musical influences is expertly showcased through our take on the jazz artform, with a world-class lineup of jazz and jazzflavoured events.

Vaughnette Bigford Photo: Maria Nunes

JAZZ 2020 MARCH 28h Jazz Artists on the Greens - The Greens at Farm Road, St Joseph, Trinidad

APRIL 4th | 11th | 18th | 25th Women in Jazz - Fiesta Plaza MovieTowne, Trinidad 23rd – 26th The Tobago Jazz Experience - Speyside, Signal Hill, Scarborough, Castara and the Pigeon Point Heritage Park, Tobago TBA - Jazz on the Beach - Mt Irvine Bay, Tobago TBA - VSpot Semi-Inclusive Jazz Experience - Clifton Hill Manor, Point Fortin, Trinidad

MAY 2nd Jazz Under the Stars - Green Meadows, Santa Cruz, Trinidad 23rd North Coast Jazz Festival 2020 - Festival Grounds, Sir Solomon Hochoy Park, Blanchisseuse, Trinidad

INS & OUTS

A decade of the

NGC BocasLit Fest

By Anna Lucie Smith

Trinidad and Tobago’s annual literary festival: a lively celebration of books, writers, writing, and ideas, with a Caribbean focus and international scope. The National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago (NGC) is the title sponsor of the NGC Bocas Lit Fest.

Photos: Maria Nunes

Held every year in the heart of Port of Spain in the iconic National Library and Old Fire Station, the NGC Bocas Lit Fest, with its parallel children’s festival, marks a decade in 2020. Named one of the 20 best literary festivals in the world by Penguin Random House in 2016, the festival has earned an international reputation in record time. Some of the greatest living writers have graced this intimate festival stage, such as St. Lucian Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott, British sensations Irvine Welsh and Marina Warner, and Caribbean legends like Earl Lovelace, Olive Senior, Lorna Goodison, and Vahni Capildeo.

The NGC Bocas Lit Fest is known for spotting the next big talent in Caribbean writing, and has been the launching ground of many literary careers. In 2011, Marlon James gave the Bocas audience a preview from his then work-in-progress, a manuscript that would famously become the 2015 Man Booker Prizewinning novel A Brief History of Seven Killings.

Other rising stars have moved from the Bocas New Talent showcase to publish debut work and grab prestigious international awards — among them, local poets Danielle Boodoo-Fortuné, winner of the 2019 OCM Bocas Prize for poetry, and Shivanee Ramlochan, shortlisted for the 2018 Forward Prize.

98 ENTERTAINMENT

In this small but vibrant country, there is a bubbling up of artistic talent and opportunity, and a quick look at the range of NGC Bocas Lit Fest activities shows how much there is on offer — writing workshops for all levels, new books launched by local writers every year, the epic First Citizens National Poetry Slams, run by Bocas partners the 2 Cents Movement, plus platforms for social change in high-level panel discussions, Extempo debates, and the witty performance commentary of the festival’s annual Ole Mas Competition.

For book-lovers and writers outside Port of Spain, Bocas hosted spin-off festivals in San Fernando, Chaguanas and Tobago, and helped revive U.WE Speak, the open mic series at the University of the West Indies campus, making a space for students to explore social issues through the arts. Plus every April the NGC Children’s Bocas Lit Fest storytelling caravan brings stories to life every weekend, all over T&T. And most amazingly, nearly all these public events are free and open.

1 – 3 May, 2020 @bocaslitfest www.bocaslitfest.com

INS & OUTS

film festivals SO MUCH MORE THAN MAINSTREAM

By Roslyn Carrington

Indie and fringe films are throwing out a challenge to the mainstream industry, especially now that emerging players in the Caribbean, Latin America and Africa have stepped onto the field. Trinidadians love movies and celebrate this newfound diversity by hosting several niche film festivals every year.

One of the major influencers is FilmTT, a subsidiary of the government entity CreativeTT, which is devoted to supporting the interests of the country’s creative industries.

FilmTT’s sister companies are MusicTT and FashionTT. FilmTT provides services to local and incoming productions, offering logistical and creative support as well as training and financing to maximise the country’s economic and creative talent.

If you love films, here’s your chance to experience something other than mainstream fare.

The trinidad+tobago film festival – SEPTEMBER One of FilmTT’s most popular undertakings is the trinidad+tobago film festival, an annual event that provides a forum for local and regional filmmakers, writers, actors, producers and directors. Usually held in the summer months, this week-long festival screens around 90 films at several locations, along with cultural displays, meet-andgreets and networking events. ttfilmfestival.com Facebook: @ttfilmfestival

Korea Film Week – APRIL Korea Film Week is held courtesy the Embassy of the Republic of Korea.

The embassy sees it as a fantastic medium for cultural exchange, and a way to open the eyes of film lovers to a world they may not have seen before. The beauty and artistry of Korean films can be enjoyed for free at MovieTowne Port of Spain. overseas.mofa.go.kr/tt-en/index.do Facebook @KoreanEmbassyTT

100 ENTERTAINMENT

European Film Festival – MAY Engrossing, unusual and eclectic. Two weeks of delightful films from countries throughout Europe—subtitled, of course.

Viewings are concentrated around MovieTowne Port of Spain, but a few are available at other MovieTowne locations.

Movietowne.com Facebook: @tnteff

African Film Trinidad and Tobago – MAY The explosion of fresh and fascinating films coming out of the African continent is a nomadic festival, so you can catch screenings at places like the Little Carib Theatre or Central Bank in Port of Spain, or go further afield and view them at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, or outdoor locations like the Brian Lara Promenade. africafilmtt.com Facebook @africafilmtt

Green Screen: The Environmental Film Festival – OCTOBER / NOVEMBER

Animae Caribe - AUGUST

The Green Screen festival is a forum for short films with an environmentally conscious slant. It’s hosted by SustainTT in the hopes of raising awareness and prompting action on climate change and environmental degradation in the region. It includes feature films, shorts, and a mobile short-shorts film competition. Films can be viewed at small, intimate venues like the Grundlos Kollektiv in Port of Spain. greenscreentt.com Facebook: @greenscreentt

More than a film festival, it’s a gathering of anime lovers who view films, play games, discuss industry happenings and show off their creativity through cosplay. The event encourages creatives and entrepreneurs and welcomes big names in the industry for forums and autograph signings. animaecaribe.com Facebook: @animae.caribe.animation.festival

Fiesta Plaza, MovieTowne (868) 627-8277 MovieTowne, Audrey Jeffers Highway, Port of Spain fiestaplaza@movietowne.com | movietowne.com

When the sun sets, the Caribbean nightlife heats up at Fiesta Plaza, MovieTowne.

Brimming with activity and excitement, the ambience is clearly reminiscent of Bourbon Street in New Orleans; filled with the eclectic blend of cuisine and entertainment that makes this venue one of the most talked-about spots in T&T. A diverse mix of dining choices await to satisfy any palate, and for anyone feeling lucky, why not try your hand at the casino?

Guests can also sway to the beats and pulsating rhythms of local talent with live shows taking place twice per week; every Wednesday and Saturday from 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm.

You can always find a great lime and a lively crowd at the No.1 entertainment destination in Trinidad and Tobago.

VIP Platinum Cinema and Lounge, MovieTowne (868) 627-8277 MovieTowne, Audrey Jeffers Highway, Port of Spain vipplatinum@movietowne.com | movietowne.com The VIP Platinum Cinema and Lounge is an ultra-modern, state-of-the-art venue that takes cinema-going to the next level. Indulge in the full VIP experience by dining in the lounge, while satisfying your penchant for a blockbuster movie in the private setting of the 64-seat theatre.

The lounge is open to all; no movie ticket necessary. It offers a sophisticated restaurant and bar atmosphere where dining, cocktails and meetings are welcome. You can also reserve your cinema seat ahead of time, while savouring the intimate setting of luxury seating and cosy blankets. The venue is also available for rent for any type of event and occasion. Located inside the lobby of MovieTowne Port of Spain, this is the latest entertainment offering to movie lovers with discerning tastes, nationwide.

ENTERTAINMENT 101

INS &

INS & OUTS

THE CARNIVAL OF

Hashes

WORLD INTERHASH TT By Niki Borde For the last 42 years, hashers have come together at the World Interhash to explore over 21 places across the globe including Australia, Fiji, Bali and Malaysia. Never has the event been hosted in this part of the world.

From April 23-26th 2020, the 22nd edition of the World Interhash, with over 75 countries taking part, will be hosted in Trinidad and Tobago. What’s this about? Hashing is all about enjoying a run through interesting places, be it in the forest, city or a remote village and then enjoying a couple of beastly cold beers afterwards. Simple. But there is much more to it than meets the eye.

For instance, Hash Kennels, “a drinking club with a running problem”, sets the tone for the weekend’s adventure or weekly runs closer to towns. Hashers enjoy the exercise of running and definitely the “liming” afterwards, but it’s not just a run. It’s more of a search for the correct path. You can get lost if you don’t know the signs. Hares set the course with markings to follow; these can mislead you down false trails so you have to be alert. The fun starts when the Hounds or Hash Packs set off in pursuit of the trails, with the faster runners often taking the lead from the onset. Resourceful Hares try to keep their pack together by setting false trails, sneaky checks or creating innovative loops that force the ambitious forerunners to end up right back on the original track, often meeting up with the slower or more casual hashers, allowing the main pack to finish at the same time.

102 WORLD INTERHASH TT

a drinking club with a running problem Dubbed the Carnival of Hashes, the World Interhash Trinidad 2020 will feature the addition of a few local touches including the Red Dress Run which ends at the Hadco Phase 2 Panyard, where 1002 men and women runners in red dresses, get their first taste of Carnival. Hours later they will have to wake before dawn for the J’Ouvert Run on Friday morning. With 28 run options over four days and three All Inclusive fêtes, it promises to be a hashing event like no other.

Not to be left out, Tobago will be the Pre Lube of the event, with packages for early bird participants to enjoy the delights of Tobago before hitting the trails in Trinidad.

If you want to be part of the fun, log on to Interhashtrinidad2020.com On On!

Visit Five Islands and get ready to take fun and adventure to a whole new level!

Raymond Edwards Former Chief Mixologist, current Chief Brand Educator

Sharing The House of Angostura® Stories ANGOSTURA® GLOBAL AMBASSADORS SPAN THE GLOBE

By Kieran Andrew Khan

Bartenders and mixologists the world over vie for the annual top spot in the Angostura® Global Cocktail Challenge (AGCC), now celebrating its tenth year. That winner not only receives US$10,000 but also has the opportunity to work alongside the brand for two years as the Global Brand Ambassador for the House of Angostura®, following in the footsteps of Raymond Leota from New Zealand or Neal Ramdhan and Daniyel Jones of Trinidad and Tobago - the latter now based in Paris. This year, nine finalists, selected from global competitive heats, will participate in the T&Tbased final, crafting their favourite Angostura® rum, bitters and Amaro di Angostura® cocktails in just seven minutes leveraging their knowledge of the award-winning Premium Rum Range and coupling it with their flair and finesse.

The House of Angostura’s® Global Brand Ambassador programme lies within the purview of Raymond Edwards, the former Chief Mixologist and current Chief Brand Educator for the House of Angostura®. Raymond, once a professional footballer before becoming a bartender, strongly believes in the potential of the distillery – the only one of its kind in T&T. The history of Angostura®, with the legacy of the Siegert family, founders and creators of Angostura® aromatic bitters, colliding with that of the influential rum-producing Fernandes family, is an incredible one. What started as a simple medicinal concoction in the town once called Angostura in Venezuela, created by Dr Johann Siegert, has now spawned a global spirits brand. Today, the distillery offers Angostura® orange bitters, Amaro di Angostura® (an Italian liqueur), a rum for every palate and pocket, and Angostura Lemon Lime and Bitters® in the ready-to-drink non-alcoholic segment – all under the House of Angostura®.

Raymond’s role is to have that history, story and impressive product array, play in the minds of customers around the world – through the central role of the House of Angostura® Ambassadors. “Our Global Ambassadors are the eyes and ears of the House of Angostura®. They decode and distil this knowledge of the brand to thinkers and discerning drinkers.

Our legacy has been built on Angostura® aromatic bitters, but we also have some of the most awarded and wellrespected rums. These rums are part of the central story of our own lives – from celebrations to losses. Rums that range from Legacy – once the world’s most expensive rum, to others in our range that have been a part of our shared experiences as a people,” Raymond points out. “Our rums have been part of the story of Trinidad and Tobago, and it’s something we take pride in,” he adds.

With applications for the AGCC coming from over 74 markets, the appeal of quality rum in the spirits category is undeniable. And with over 25 of the world’s finest bartenders who serve as our Ambassadors telling the story of our islands and sharing our world-class rum, we’re sharing the best of us with the globe, one sip at a time.

Strong individuals, strength in depth; these two abilities ably represent T&T sports. It’s a nation steeped in sporting excellence that is reflected by standout individual performances, team successes and increasingly, talent spread beyond the traditional hunting grounds of athletics, cricket and football.

INS & OUTS

HIGHS&Lows TRINIDAD’S SPORTING YEAR

By Sheldon Waithe

The myriad of sports played across the island is staggering, from the relative newcomers such as Aquabike and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) to local staples such as cycling, hockey and golf. If it’s being played globally and does not require snow or ice, the chances are there is a local chapter undertaking the sport on a regular basis, in a perfect year-round climate.

Sport in T&T is no longer bound by the parameters of time-honoured seasons, hence major cricket now

106 SPORT

played in July through to December. In that regard, Trinidad hosted West Indies v India in two ODIs at the Queen’s Park Oval in mid August with the visitors comfortably winning both matches.

The CPL (Caribbean Premier League), easily the most popular and successful event across the region, then rolled into town. Trinidad hosted its five group games involving the immensely popular entity, Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR), before hosting a semi-final and final for a third consecutive time. Alas, there was

to be no three-peat for TKR, but Barbados Tridents beating Guyana Amazon Warriors in front of a soldout crowd was worthy of a brilliant tournament. In November, the island also hosted the regional Super 50 competition, Kieron Pollard was named Windies ODI and T20 Captain and Phil Simmons returned as Windies Coach.

The Pan Am Games provided ample return for athletes, while at the World Relays in Japan, the then reigning 4x400 World Champions, T&T, emphasized their standing by winning gold in dominating fashion.

However, at the World Championships in Qatar, the T&T squad inexplicably failed to win a single medal, which has not occurred since 2011; but fear not, that was the year before T&T’s historic medal haul at an Olympics.

On the road, the Kenyans continued their haul in the T&T International Marathon with Stephen Njoroge, taking the men’s title and Grace Kahura the women’s.

Boxer Michael Alexander continued his upward trajectory with a quarter final placing in the Lightweight division at Russia’s World Championships, to complement his Pan Am bronze. Ross Cabral took the first big tournament of the year with his win in the T&T Golf Association Classic; there were a few familiar names in the top 15: Russel Latapy and Brian Lara may be seeking a new sport to dominate....Ben Martin secured victory in the T&T Open.

Dylan Carter booked his Olympic place as early as July 2019, with fine performances in the World Aquatics Championships, where he swam to a series of top 15 places. In powerboat racing, the new IRP Regatta series proved immensely popular; Sheriff Lobo, Iron Man and Conqueror took the various class titles.

Carlista Mohammed treated herself to a triple of Women’s, Doubles and Mixed Doubles in the National Open Tennis Championship, with Nabeel Mohammed taking the Mens Singles crown.

It was year of upheaval for domestic football, with clear effects on the national football teams.

The proposed T-League was supposed to unify the Pro League and Super League teams but ran into difficulties with opinions and finances. Meanwhile W Connection won the last Super League that is now set to continue while the woes of the national Men’s team make unhappy reading. Despite a promising draw to Japan in March, the Soca Warriors have not won a match in the 13 games played throughout the year. The national women’s team were preparing for their shot at Olympic qualification, as we went to press.

T&T’s Nicholas Paul did the unbelievable and broke track cycling’s Flying 200M World Record, capping great year-long performances from his compatriots in the Team Sprint where T&T also recorded the second best time ever. It bodes well for Tokyo 2020, where the country will be captivated by the efforts to add to an impressive overall medal haul for this small but super-talented nation.

Multi-sport events will remain at the forefront with the announcement that Trinidad will host the Commonwealth Youth Games in 2021. With the world class venues already in place, it perfectly complements T&T’s Sport Tourism push, together with a proven ability to host global events. Home and abroad, the T&T sporting scene continues to excite, entertain and evolve.

OPPOSITE PAGE FROM THE TOP Concacaf Nations League Michelle-Lee Ahye Kershorn Walcott Photos: Caribbean Action Images

FROM LEFT Cycling at the National Cycling Centre

Photo: Richard Lyder

Caribbean Premier League Cricket CPL T20 Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Continuing

the Legacy

T&T AT THE 2019 PAN AM GAMES

By Sheldon Waithe

As the last major multisport event before the big one - Tokyo 2020 - the 18th Pan American Games and 6th Parapan American Games were not just a chance to raise patriotic fervour, but to check where T&T’s athlete’s stood globally.

It was a mixed bag for the red, white and black clad athletes; 103 of them in all, across the bulk of the sporting alphabet, from Archery to Taekwondo. Reputations were solidified, new ground was broken and a few disappointments forced a reset in preparations.

The return of 13 medals (2 Gold, 8 Silver, 3 Bronze) in the Pan Am Games and 4 (2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze) in the Parapan, reflected the mix of world class competitors on the hunt for precious metal and those gaining experience for future medal expeditions.

The nation’s investment in its cyclists continued to reap rewards, with Nicholas Paul, Njisane Phillip and Keron Bramble taking the Team Sprint before the first

two men then took the top two positions in the Individual event. Teniel Campbell also doubled-up, taking silver in both the Women’s Road Race and Time Trial.

In the water, Dylan Carter added to his burgeoning collection with bronze in the 100m Backstroke, while on the water, Felice Chow broke new ground for T&T with a first ever medal in Rowing, silver in the Women’s Single Sculls. Michael Alexander’s Boxing bronze kept in the mix of Olympic qualification.

The traditional bounty still came from Athletics but there was disappointment that none were gold. Four silvers from Michelle-Lee Ahye (100m), Jereem Richards (200m), the 4x100m Relay team and Kershorn Walcott (javelin), represented areas where certainly the latter three were expected to mount the top step of the podium. But the biggest surprise was the 4x400 relay squad’s bronze, given their position as defending Pan Am and World champions.

Akeem Stewart broke another world record on his way to Discus Gold in the Parapan Games, then added silver in the Javelin. Not to be outdone Nyoshia CainClaxton took gold and bronze respectively in the classic sprinter’s double of the Women’s 100m and 200m.

The Pan Am class of 2019 can be justly proud of continuing the proud legacy T&T enjoys at these Games, now it’s onto the Olympics with the knowledge that our elite athletes are ready to go toe to toe with the rest of the world. Roll on Tokyo!

FROM THE TOP Keron Bramble Nicholas Paul Njisane Phillip Photo: Richard Lyder

Akeem Stewart

Photo: Caribbean Action Images

TRINIDAD SPORTS calendar January 26

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO INTERNATIONAL MARATHON www.ttmarathon.com

March 7-8

WAHOO FISHING TOURNAMENT T&T Yacht Club, Bayshore www.ttgfa.com

12-15

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO OPEN GOLF St Andrews Golf Course

July

31-4 APR

23-27

MARLIN MADNESS TOURNAMENT www.ttgfa.com

TEST MATCH: WEST INDIES V SOUTH AFRICA Queen’s Park Cricket Club www.windiescricket.com

April

August

5

SOUTHERN GAMES Guaracara Park, Point-a-Pierre

19-26 SEPT

CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE T20 Brian Lara Academy & Queen’s Park Cricket Club www.cplt20.com

25

TRINIDAD RALLY www.rallytrinidad.net

June

22

14

GREAT RACE Port of Spain - Scarborough ww.thettpba.com/great-race

WAR ON WHEELS (MOTORSPORT) La Vega Estate, Gran Couva Photos: Nicholas Bhajan

September 20

MARACAS OPEN WATER SWIM CLASSIC Maracas Bay www.triathlon.co.tt/events

24

TRINIDAD DERBY Santa Rosa Horseracing Complex arimaraceclub.com

October 7

BEACON CYCLING ON D AVENUE Woodbrook

17-18

CHINESE BICENTENNIAL DRAGON BOAT REGATTA The Boardwalk, Chaguaramas

SPORT 109

INS &

restaurants

More Vino / More Sushi

Rizzoni’s Ristorante Italiano

Waterfront Restaurant

(868) 622-VINO (8466) (868) 622-2710 (Fax) Port of Spain – 23 O’ Connor St., Woodbrook (868) 652-VINO (8466) San Fernando – 33 Scott St., San Fernando sales@morevino.com www.morevino.com

(868) 627-RIZZ (7499) MovieTowne, Level 1, Fiesta Plaza, Port of Spain.

657-RIZZ (7499) MovieTowne, C3 Plaza/Complex, San Fernando www.rizzoni-italiano.com

(868) 821-6550 Hyatt Regency Trinidad 1 Wrightson Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I. trinidad.regency.hyatt.com www.opentable.com

More Vino is one of the most popular restaurants on the island, best known for their sushi. They combine traditional Asian and Caribbean flavours for an undeniable explosion of taste and excitement. Also offered is an extensive selection from the hot kitchen/cooked menu. You’ll feel at home, whether you choose to sit inside or under the grape vines on the terrace. Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway, Catering, Event Space Rental and Delivery.

Our inspiration for Rizzoni’s came from generations of secret recipes and techniques from the southern coast of Naples, to northern Italy in honor of the Rizzo/Pisoni families.

Welcome to our home. Welcome to Rizzoni’s!

Undoubtedly the best Italian cuisine.

Download the Rizzoni’s To Go app.

Available for Functions.

sample menu

$$

Appetisers: Shrimp tempura, edamame, crispy chicken bombs, golden dumplings, sriracha wings.

Hot Kitchen: Pad Thai, Japanese Curry, Poke Bowls, Ramen.

Sushi Bar: Sriracha lobster, double crunchy, angry crab, iron chef, volcano, tempura crunchy ninja, scorpion pepper.

opening hours Sun: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm Mon–Thu: 11:00 am – 10:30 pm Fri–Sat: 11:00 am – 11:30 pm

INS & OUTS

112 RESTAURANTS

sample menu

$$

Starter - Creamy Shrimp Mac & Cheese Pizzas - Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pastas - Linguine di Mare Chicken, Meats & Seafood Red Snapper Picatta Italian Sandwiches & Burgers - Rizzoni-Fried Rib-Burger

opening hours Lunch served daily: 11:00 am – 3:30 pm Dinner: Sun–Thu: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm and Fri & Sat: 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Waterfront Restaurant invites you to enjoy local and international cuisine with a contemporary flair. We promise to take you on an amazing culinary excursion.

Savour authentic flavours and magnificent presentations as you dine indoors or outdoors, with amazing views of the Gulf of Paria.

sample menu

$$$$

Coconut Curry Soup Roasted Vegetables, Zucchini Bolognese Saffron Chicken Tikka Masala Herb Crusted Lamb Chop Apple Crème Brulée

opening hours Breakfast: Mon–Fri: 6:00 am – 10:30 am Sat–Sun: 6:00 am – 11:00 am Lunchfast: Sat and holidays: 11:00 am – 1:30 pm Lunch: Mon–Fri: 11:30 am – 2:30 pm (includes Lightning Lunch) Sat and holidays: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Brunch: Sun: 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm Dinner: Daily: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm Sat Night Dinner Buffet: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

JAXX International Grill (868) 625-JAXX (5299) Movietowne Complex, Port of Spain (868) 663-JAXX (5299) Grand Bazaar, Churchill Roosevelt Hwy (868) 665-JAXX (5299) Price Plaza, Chaguanas (868) 657-JAXX (5299) C3 Centre, San Fernando As a world-class grill house, an international hub, a gateway to a world of flavours – thanks to our talented chefs. We boast an eclectic fusion of foods that are delicious in any language. You’ll enjoy breathtaking cuisine from a variety of countries such as Mexico, Italy, Japan, Thailand, the United States and India. Imagine indulging in the exotic taste of Chicken Tikka Masala or sinking your teeth into a flavourful, fire grilled Mexican Fajita. Explore our delectable desserts and soul-soothing drink selections – we’ve got something for everyone.

“The World at Your Table”

sample menu

$-$$

Lemon Butter & Herb-Grilled Salmon Baby-Back Ribs Ponzu & Ginger Salmon Poke Bowl The Jaxx Heart Attack

Salt n’ Pepper Classical Indian Cuisine

INS & OUTS

114 RESTAURANTS

(868) 623-0022 Level 2 Fiesta Plaza, MovieTowne Invader’s Bay, Audrey Jeffers Highway, Port of Spain www.texasdebrazil.com

(868) 622-3938 / 339-4949 Shoppes of Maraval, Saddle Road, Maraval, Trinidad ajeshjose78@gmail.com www.saltnpeppertt.com You will find the best of subcontinental Indian cuisine at Salt N’ Pepper at a fraction of the cost paid at any fine dining restaurant.

Our food is much more than just roti and curry – as anyone who has tasted our naan or tandoori might testify. The food of India varies with – and as much as – India’s landscape and soil type. After 16 years of living in Trinidad, chef Ajesh Jose spent 11 years as head chef at one of Trinidad’s best known Indian restaurants.

sample menu

$

Starter: Samosas, Kerala fried chicken Chicken: Tikka masala, butter chicken masala Lamb: Rogan Josh and vindaloo Seafood: Fish curry, shrimp kurma Tandoori Specials: Chicken, fish, shrimp Naan: garlic, butter, peshwari Vegetarian: Mutter mushroom, Aloo gobi Rice: Basmati, biriyani, pulao

opening hours Sun–Thu: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm Fri–Sat: 11:00 am – 1:00 am

Texas De Brazil

opening hours Daily: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Texas De Brazil is an authentic BrazilianAmerican churrascaria (steak house) offering you an interactive dining experience unlike anything else in Trinidad and Tobago!

Treat yourself to our 50 to 60 seasonal salad area and traditional side items. When you are ready for meat, turn your card to green and prepare to be swarmed by a troop of carvers generously serving various cuts of meat until you can say, “No más!” An extensive wine list, freshly made signature cocktails, and many decadent desserts are available to complete your dining experience. Fixed pricing (All you can eat). Available for Functions.

sample menu

$$$

Seasonal Salad Area.

Various Cuts of Beef, Lamb, Pork, Chicken and Brazilian Sausage.

Brazilian Cocktail: Caipirniha.

opening hours Sun Brunch: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (Kids 12 and under eat free at Sunday Brunch - restrictions apply) Dinner nightly: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm

RESTAURANTS  115

INS &

Adam’s Bagels & Specialty Breads (868) 622-2435 15A Saddle Rd., Maraval, Port of Spain, Trinidad adam@adamsbagels.com www.adamsbagels.com Adam’s is a family-owned and operated bakery, restaurant, and gourmet shop located in the heart of Maraval. Believing in fresh ingredients, quality products and friendly personalised customer service, Adam has developed strong relationships with his customers over the past 23 years. Adam’s earned the title: “Best Bakery & Coffee Shop 2013” by T&T Table Talk Awards. Visit us the next time you are in the area and experience the charm and hospitality that is Adam’s.

Breakfast, Lunch, Tea

sample menu

$-$$

(868) 235-3283 Unit 26 B&C, One Woodbrook Place, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I. reservations@samuraitt.com www.samuraitt.com Enjoy the Japanese experience at Samurai Restaurant, Sushi Bar and Steakhouse, where Japanese-born Executive Chef, Kenji Miura creates an authentic culinary experience enhanced with exotic Caribbean flavours.

We feature themed night specials every week. Izakaya Mondays, Tasting Tuesday (once per month), Social Sushi Wednesdays, Steak Night (Thursday), 2.4.1 Cocktails and Platters on Fridays, Wine and Dine Saturdays and Family Sundays.

Lunch, Dinner, Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery

Breakfast Friday Special – Tomato, melongene, pumpkin and bhagi chokas with whole wheat sada roti.

Saturday Special – Fried bake and black pudding or buljol, saltfish accra with tamarind sauce.

Lunch – Different soups every day, salads and sandwiches.

Tea – Select hot coffees and teas.

Tempting in-house pastries, pies and cakes.

sample menu

opening hours

Sun – Thu: 5:00 pm - midnight Fri & Sat: 11:00 am - midnight

Mon–Sat: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm

INS & OUTS

116 RESTAURANTS

Island Beer Chill & Grill

Samurai Sushi Bar & Steakhouse

Hamachi Ponzu Ebi Tacos Ishiyaki Beef Steak Kamikaze Sushi Roll Chicken Katsu Namban Seared Scallops with Mushrooms Samurai Ice Cream Tempura

opening hours

$$-$$$

(868) 235-BEER (2337) One Woodbrook Place, Port of Spain, Trinidad (868) 220-IBCG (4224) South Park, San Fernando, Trinidad www.ibcgtt.com Ever tried Warsteiner Pilsner right off the keg? At Island Beer Chill and Grill you can try over 100 different beers from around the globe, such as lagers, ales and stouts as well as ciders. Come and treat yourself to our slow smoked meats, wings and even pasta to complement any palate. We feature all major sporting events on our big screens, coupled with drink specials weekly.

Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway, Delivery, Curbside Pickup and Available for Functions

sample menu Garlic Pork Beef Brisket Soup Guinness Chicken Cajun Lamb Chump Trini Tequeños German Hot Dog Cuban Grilled Meat Platter

opening hours One Woodbrook Place Sun – Thu: 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm Fri & Sat: 11:00 am – midnight SouthPark Daily: 11:00 am – midnight

$-$$

RESTAURANTS  117

INS &

Soong’s Great Wall (868) 652-Wall (9255) / 657-5050 / 652-2583; (868) 653-3834 (Fax) 97 Circular Rd., San Fernando soongsgreatwall@gmail.com

Hakka Restaurant & Bar

The Dreamy Creamy Ice Cream Company

(868) 33-HAKKA (42552) 4 Taylor Street, Woodbrook, Port of Spain info@hakkarestaurant.com www.hakkarestaurant.com

Tel (868) 223-8664 Coffee Street, San Fernando.

SS Erin Road, Debe.

Gasparillo Mall, Gasparillo.

Maraval Plaza, Saddle Rd, Maraval. dreamy.creamy@live.com

Nestled at the base of the iconic San Fernando Hill. Join us at Soong’s Great Wall for a dining experience just as aweinspiring as its majestic namesake. Step into our newly renovated dining room or our breathtaking outdoor deck ... relax and be pampered by our highly trained staff, personally instructed in the art of making you feel welcome. Our skilled chefs will not disappoint, preparing the finest Chinese cuisine for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

Don’t miss our Sunday Lunch Buffet featuring many delectable dishes. Private upper level available for special functions & seminars.

Hakka cuisine is an elegant fusion of Chinese recipes with distinct Indian spices and flavours. Over 100 years ago, the original recipes traveled from Mei Zhou, China to India with the Hakka Chinese people, who eventually settled in Calcutta. Over several generations, the marriage of oriental techniques and Indian ingredients evolved into a gastronomic explosion for the taste buds. Our chefs have travelled from the top Hakka restaurants in Calcutta to meticulously prepare dishes that define the sights, tastes and aromas of the HAKKA experience.

Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway, Parking Available.

sample menu

sample menu

$$

Phoenix Basket Sizzling Tenderloin Beef Sesame Shrimp Lobster Cantonese Dasheen Pork Great Wall Chicken Pepper Squid Lemon Fish

Appetiser Pepper Salt Calamari Crispy Chili Mushroom Hakka Chinese Salad Main Course Konjee Crispy Chicken Red Curry Shrimp (Thai, Spicy) Szechuan Rice

opening hours

opening hours

Sun – Thu: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm Fri – Sat: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm Closed on public holidays

Mon – Thur: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm Fri & Sat: 11:00 am – midnight Sun: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

INS & OUTS

118 RESTAURANTS

$-$$

The Dreamy Creamy Ice Cream Company opened its first store on Coffee Street, San Fernando in February 2010, selling a locally produced premium ice cream product.

Although not categorising ourselves as homemade, we use the finest ingredients we can find to give customers a product experience that is often compared to leading international brands. We still, however, take pride in staying as local as we can by using fruits, produce and the freshest cow’s milk from our local dairy farmers.

Over 30 Flavours

sample menu

$$

Old Fashioned Flavour Listing Very Strawberry Peanut Popular Flavour Listing Coffee Street Soursop Dreamy Creamy Signature Flavour Listing Chunky Fuh So Manzanilla Madness

opening hours Daily: 9:30 am – 9:30 pm

THE ART OF CHAUD At Chaud, We deliver fine dining experiences With integrity and value, Where the power of a dish lies in each detail.

Your culinary escape is closer than you think.

Join us for our lunch or dinner today!

RESTAURANTS  119

INS &

Herbs & Spices Restaurant (868) 624-3211 ext 6200 (Reservations) Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre 1B Lady Young Road poshifb@hilton.com www.opentable.com/herbsandspices Herbs & Spices offers an exciting take on “farm to table”. Our culinary philosophy features a seasonally inspired menu with selections that focus on local ingredients and fresh herbs to produce beautifully crafted dishes by our chefs. The perfect choice for all-day dining, Herbs & Spices is an excellent meeting spot with its convenient location along with its simple yet contemporary ambiance, perfect for casual dining.

sample menu

$$

Pastas: Spaghetti Arrabiata Main Course: Salmon Gremolata Tamarind Brushed Australian Rack Lamb 8oz Butchers Block: Ribeye 10oz (boneless) certified Black Angus Desserts: Trinitarian Chocolate Crème Brulee; Guava Cheese

opening hours Breakfast: 6:30 am – 10:30 am Lunch: Noon – 2:30 pm Dinner: 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm

INS & OUTS

120 RESTAURANTS

KAVA

Tiki Village

(868) 622-KAVA (5282) Kapok Hotel, Lobby Level 16–18 Cotton Hill, St. Clair, Trinidad stay@kapokhotel.com www.kapokhotel.com

(868) 622-KPOK (5765) Kapok Hotel, 8th Floor 16–18 Cotton Hill, St. Clair, Trinidad stay@kapokhotel.com www.kapokhotel.com

KAVA’s eclectic menu features artisan brick oven pizzas, salads, gourmet burgers, pastas, steaks and more. It displays a wide selection of wines, and offers a variety of internationally renowned beers. Its convenient location, along with the crisp and inviting décor, makes it an excellent meeting spot! Enjoy your choice of indoor café-styled seating or relax on our outdoor terrace, both providing the perfect setting for casual dining. Whether it’s for a quick bite for lunch, grab-and-go, or a leisurely espresso with tempting desserts, KAVA is the obvious choice. Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway and Available for Functions.

Tiki Village is a unique Asian-Polynesian restaurant offering a stunning view of the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, and the Gulf of Paria. Explore our famous Dim Sum menu on Sundays and taste our delicately hand-crafted Asian delights. Or join us for our sumptuous à-la-carte lunches and dinners. Honey-toned wooden pillars and copper masks, locally crafted by our artisans, create a warm ambiance and an elegant background. Perfect for a romantic evening, business meeting or a family outing.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway and Available for Functions.

sample menu

sample menu

$$

Bone-in ribeye steak (16oz) Herb-crusted lamb rack Roasted vegetables Brick oven pizzas Prosecco mojito

Our Special Polynesian Delight Fire Pot Jing Shek Ban Walnut Shrimp Tiki Pork

opening hours

opening hours

Mon: 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm Tue–Thu: 11:30 am – 11:00 pm Fri & Sat: 11:30 am – midnight Sun: Noon – 9:00 pm Public Holidays*: 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Mon & Tue: Wed & Thu:

Fri & Sun: Dim Sum Sun:

6:30 am – 3:00 pm 6:30 am – 3:00 pm 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm 6:30 am – 11:00 pm Noon – 2:30 pm

$$$

Popeyes Restaurant

Burger King

Little Caesars® Pizza

(868) 285-9031 Restaurant Holdings Limited Restaurant Support Centre 14 Frederick Settlement, Caroni rsc@ttrhl.com

(868) 285-9031 Restaurant Holdings Limited, Restaurant Support Centre, 14 Frederick Settlement, Caroni rsc@ttrhl.com

(868) 285-9031 Restaurant Holdings Limited, Restaurant Support Centre, 14 Frederick Settlement, Caroni rsc@ttrhl.com

Discover Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, built around the traditional Southern American homestyle cooking. At Popeyes, food is our passion and we are renowned for our chicken and seafood.

Our chicken is marinated for twelve hours to give you an unforgettable culinary experience. You will ‘Love that chicken!’ Try our signature side items to complete your meal at any of our five Trinidad locations: Movie Towne, Grand Bazaar, Trincity Mall, Churchill-Roosevelt Highway, Price Plaza.

Lunch & Dinner.

The original HOME OF THE WHOPPER®, our commitment to premium ingredients, signature recipes, and family-friendly dining experiences continue to define our brand.

Enjoy the diversity of our menu, with flamegrilled beef options, fish, crispy fried chicken, salads and desserts.

We are conveniently located at St. James, MovieTowne Invaders Bay, Maraval, West Mall, Grand Bazaar, Curepe, Tacarigua, Trincity Mall, Price Plaza, Gulf City, High Street, Marabella, Princes Town, Arima and C3 Centre. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

sample menu

sample menu

Throughout its history, Little Caesars has provided quality pizza at a great price, resulting in outstanding value for customers.

Quality and value are core values at Little Caesars, but the brand also represents passion, fun, commitment and a focus on family. Little Caesars has the well known phrase Pizza!Pizza!®. Little Caesars broke the status quo by making pizzas ready when customers walk in, with no need to call ahead or wait in line, with the launch of its HOT-NREADY pizza offer. Visit any of our locations in Trinidad: Gulf City Mall, C3 Centre, Shops of Trincity – Tissue Dr., Maraval Plaza, Village of Mandalay – Arima.

Lunch, Dinner, Takeout.

No Calling • No Waiting • It’s Ready Now.

Lunch & Dinner Chicken (Mild/Spicy) Chicken Tenders Cajun Fish Popcorn Shrimp Sandwiches Salads Signature Sides

$

$

opening hours

Breakfast Croissan’wich with ham or bacon; pancakes; French toast; eggs; bacon; hash browns.

Lunch Whopper; Crispy Chicken; Fish and Veggie Sandwiches; Original Chicken Sandwich; Tendergrill and Tendercrisp Sandwiches; salads and desserts.

Sun – Sat: Opens from 10:00 am

opening hours

opening hours

Sun – Thur: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm Fri – Sat: 7:00 am – midnight

Sun – Sat: Opens from 10:30 am

sample menu

$

Lunch & Dinner Classic Pepperoni Pizza; Crazy Bread; Three Meat Treat Pizza; Veggie Pizza; Caesar Wings; Ultimate Supreme Pizza; Crazy Sauce; Hula Hawaiian Pizza;

RESTAURANTS 121

INS &

Taryn’s The Panyol Place

Annie’s Mandarin Whipped Restaurant & Lounge

(868) 622-3989 23 Mucurapo Road, St. James, Port of Spain, Trinidad thepanyolplace@gmail.com

(868) 628-3021 (For Reservations) Shop # 6, One Woodbrook Place, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, W.I.

Cachapa Venezolana Pabellón Criollo Tequeños

opening hours Mon–Fri: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm Sat: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm

INS & OUTS

122 RESTAURANTS

Appetisers Hong Kong wantons Home styled wanton soup.

Main Course Jasmine fried rice Baby patchoi Funci with garlic shrimp Steamed red snapper Fresh crispy skin pork.

opening hours Mon–Thu 10:00 am - 10:00 pm.

Fri & Sat 10:00 am - midnight.

Sun & Public holidays 10:00 am - 10:00 pm.

$$

Salads: Kale salad Mediterranean chickpea Rice bowls: Teriyaki salmon Cuban chicken Pasta: Penne à la vodka Pesto Alfredo linguine Paninis: Banh mi Tandoori salmon BLT Savoury crepes: Thai shrimp Chinese chicken Sides: Cheddar jalepeño biscuits Mac n’ cheese Sliders: Spicy chicken sliders Lamb sliders

H| OKA | HO

W

R | HOOKAH O | BA BISTR

| DESSERTS BISTRO | BAR

| HOO KAH | DE SSE

opening hours Mon: 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm Tue – Thu: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm Fri: 11:00 am – 1:00 am Sat: 10:00 am – 1:00 am Sun: 10:00 pm – 4:00 am

| DESSERTS BISTRO | BAR | H OOKAH HOOKAH BAR | | DES RO | SERT BIST S

$-$$

$-$$$$

sample menu

RTS

sample menu

sample menu

Formerly known as ‘Whipped by Nalima’, which specialized in decadent desserts, ‘Whipped’ has now extended to a full restaurant and bar with a diversified menu, as well as a hookah station with a variety of infused flavours.

BISTRO | BAR | HOOKAH | DES SERTS SSERTS H | DE BISTR OOKA O|B R|H AR | BA

Professional, personal service and courtesy accompany our original fresh corn-based dishes, which are served every day.

Come and enjoy a wide variety of arepas, empanadas, cachapas, hallacas and much more, with various fillings, including white cheese. Enjoy fresh fruit juices. Also, Taryn’s offers a variety of dishes for lunch on a daily basis, all with a Venezuelan flavour, such as Pabellón Criollo. Try our special soups on Saturdays. Spanish spoken.

At Annie’s Mandarin Restaurant & Lounge, we specialise in Chinese and Mandarin cuisines. We prepare and cook fresh food daily for lunch and dinner and cater for all occasions. No MSG is in any of our dishes.

There are two popular vegetarian favourites, Ma Pau tofu and hot plate egg plant. Dine inside in air conditioned comfort, or outside, al fresco on the balcony, while you relax and drink some of our Chinese tea or sip on a cocktail while listening to some relaxing music. Takes Reservations, Good For Kids, Take Out, Catering, Waiter Service, Outdoor Seating

BISTRO | BAR | HOOK DESSERTS AH | D KAH | ESSER | HOO TS BAR BIST RO | RO BIST

Offering a cosy and friendly environment characterized by original traditions of Venezuela, Taryn’s, The Panyol Place, is a unique eating establishment, bringing an authentic and typical Venezuelan and Latin American cuisine to its clients.

(868) 357-9447 One Woodbrook Place Port of Spain, Trinidad, West Indies whippedbynalima@gmail.com

Ducky’s Ortoire Organic Roast Seafood (DOORS)

Smokey Joe’s

Caribbean Cuisine & Grill

(868) 313-1953 Ortoire Village, Mayaro Trinidad, W.I. doorseafood@gmail.com Ducky was born and raised in the rural fishing community of Mayaro called Ortoire.

As a fisherman, he will usually make his signature meal after a hard day’s work. This meal is roast fish. Using freshed fish from his catch, basic seasonings like lime and pepper, Ducky would roast his fish on an outdoor fireside under banana leaves. DOORS was born. Today DOORS offers a unique, original and organic experience to its customers. Its street food where one can witness the full preparation of their meal. From the cleaning of the seafood to the roasting with all the natural ingredients under banana leaves.

sample menu Roasted Lobster Roasted lobster filled with shrimps Roasted fish (all types)

opening hours Mon – Fri: 5:00 am – 11:00 pm Sat – Sun: 5:00 am – midnight

$$

(868) 627-1280 91 Ariapita Avenue, Port of Spain, Trinidad ​ (868) 346 0012 96 Frederick Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad (868) 221-1224 26 Maraval Road, Newtown, Trinidad (868) 270-2381 3–5 Chacon Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad smokeyjoesrestaurant@gmail.com www.smokeyjoestt.com At Smokey Joe’s, it’s all about taste! We aim to provide our customers with top-notch local and international homestyle cuisine at an affordable price, combined with excellent customer service. We cater for all occasions, such as corporate functions, workshops, seminars, weddings, special occasions and more. Packages are tailored to suit your individual events. We promise that our food will fire up your taste buds and have you coming back for more! Happiness is a choice.

Make yours today!

sample menu

$

Sides: Plantain pie, stuffed dumplings Chicken: Jerk, BBQ, stewed, sweet and sour Pork: Jerk, BBQ pigtail, char-siu, roast Beef: Stewed, roast, oxtail Fish: Fried, jerk, grilled, stewed Lamb: Baked, BBQ, stewed

opening hours

Irie Bites (868) 622-7364 71A Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook www.iriebitesjerk.com For a truly authentic Jamaican jerk experience, we combine the unique taste and flavours of old Kingston with the excitement of Trini cuisine. Come try our signature mouth-watering jerk and smoked BBQ meats, with traditional Caribbean recipes straight from Grannie’s cookbook. With a different lunch special each day! It’s the perfect place to sit and relax outdoors while taking in the sights and sounds of Ariapita Avenue. You can also call or go online, place your order and come collect. Fast, easy, and quality service. Look out for our sign and our red, yellow, green and black restaurant colors, and come visit us for a true Trini taste of Jamaica. Irie Bites – Got Jerk? Go Irie!

sample menu

$

Meats: Chicken, pork, lamb, fish, pigtail, pork ribs.

Sides: Steak fries, Jamaican rice and peas, mixed vegetables, stewed lentils, stir-fried noodles, bhagi rice, sauteed cassava and more...

opening hours Mon–Thu: 10:00 am – 8:45 pm Fri: 10:00 am – 9:15 pm Sat: 10:00 am – 8:45 pm Sun: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Daily: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

RESTAURANTS 123

INS &

Nichossa Restaurant

Flavours Restaurant

Lime Inn

(868) 652-8912 Rainbow Plaza, Gulf View Link Road, Gulf View, San Fernando, Trinidad nichossa@live.com

(868) 669-7000 / 669-(STAR) 7827 118–119 BWIA Boulevard, Piarco, Trinidad info@regentstarhotel.com www.regentstarhotel.com

(868) 670-3771 (868) 670-4566 (Fax) Acajou Hotel, Grande Rivière, Trinidad info@acajoutrinidad.com www.acajoutrinidad.com

Nominated in three categories at the “Table Talk” awards in 2016 and now celebrating 17 years, we are proud to invite you to our caféstyled restaurant and specialty bakery, which offer diners a comfortable yet classy dining experience of American-styled breakfasts with unique teas and coffees, followed by a wide selection of light to full meals for lunch and dinner. We produce a large variety of sweet and savoury items, ranging from local classics such as coconut drops and beef pies to truly decadent treats like chocolate mousse cake and red velvet cheesecake.

Specialty bakery, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Catering for Functions.

Flavours Restaurant: Dine in sophistication with our modern and exclusive restaurant setting. Devour in our signature food with a unique flair influenced from cultures around the world, coupled with impeccable service. Dining Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

sample menu

Appetisers Scallops Regent Star Pumpkin Delight

$

Breakfast: Mexican omelette, Belgian waffle Italian – Lasagna, Alfredo Salads – Sesame chicken salad Paninis – Grilled chicken & bacon Wraps – Maracas shark, tandoori chicken Burgers – Beef, turkey, salmon or vegetarian Sweet Things – Opera cake, date squares Savoury Bites – Beef pies, cheese puffs.

opening hours Breakfast: Mon–Sat: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

INS & OUTS

124 RESTAURANTS

The Rocks Bar & Lounge: Partake in our extensive selection of alcoholic & non-alcoholic cocktails and local & international liquors. VIP Lounges and Open Air Outdoor Decks also available.

sample menu

$-$$$

Main Simply Lobster New York Steak Au Petit “Bordeaux” Flavours Signature Veggie Burger Dessert Tiramisu Cake

opening hours Mon–Sat: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm

Reflecting our mix of Sweden and Trinidad, our menu is a lovingly created marriage between local and continental influences.

Come and relax in a setting that will completely take your breath away.

Available for functions, Lunch and Dinner

sample menu

$$

Starters Creamy crab soup Gazpacho with parmesan cheese Cucumber soup with Acajou chicken salad Tuna fish salad Main Pesto linguine & grilled eggplant Grilled red snapper Dessert Nut and chocolate tart

opening hours Open daily Breakfast: 7:30 am – 10:00 am Lunch: 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm Dinner: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Call to make your reservation.

Morsels Tel (868) 322-1743 Bay View, La Romaine, San Fernando morsels@hotmail.com Morsels is Trinidad’s #1 online bakery, focused on catering, through online & telecommunication ordering processes, promoting less in-store hassle, easy downpayment options via account number, drop off or collection, fresh items made when ordered, with the option to be collected or delivered to your door. Every attention to detail and great service is met through our exclusive order-based operation. Let us take you through your life’s sweetest, most savoury and elegant moments, deliciously and hassle free. With an active Wi-Fi connection and Internet banking you can place an order and have it delivered without ever leaving the kids, home or office.

Morsels had the opportunity to compete on the Food Network’s, Cake Wars. Corporate and Private Catering, Weddings, Birthdays, Parties, Special Occasions, Events

sample menu Specialty cakes; Cupcakes; Cake pops French macaroons; Brownies; French desserts; Tea plates; Snack boxes; Savoury menu

opening hours Mon – Fri: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Sat: 7:00 am – 3:00 pm Sun: Closed

Golden Palace Chinese Restaurant

La Petite Fleur Tea Shop

(868) 658-6557 / 1660 (Reservations) 212 Southern Main Road, Marabella, Trinidad goldenpalacemarabella@gmail.com

(868) 228-6514 22 Murray Street, Woodbrook, Trinidad, W.I.

For over 25 years, Golden Palace has been a Marabella landmark. We provide topquality food and an unmatched level of service. Enjoy our newly renovated, more comfortable environment and expanded dining choices, or simply lounge in the bar area and have a few drinks. Our chefs, trained in China, cook authentic Cantonese dishes, bringing unmatched authenticity to the culinary experience. Downstairs, the Golden Palace Food & Grill Canteen offers dining or takeaway, with a varied local breakfast. For lunch, enjoy a wide choice of local, Indian and Chinese cuisine. We cater for functions, weddings and all occasions.

La Petite Fleur is a quaint, home-styled restaurant, offering breakfast, brunch and afternoon tea service. Come enjoy our relaxed ambience, with an open-plan kitchen located within an original architecturally restored Woodbrook home with outdoor terrace overlooking the scenic Adam Smith Square. Join us for our sumptuous à la carte breakfast or lunch, or choose from our delectable desserts or leisurely afternoon tea service, all offering a delightful mix of local or international flair. Breakfast, Lunch, Takeaway and Available for Functions.

sample menu

Geera (Cumin) Pork Stuffed Plantain; Codfish Fritters (Accras) with Pineapple Salsa and Shadon Beni Aioli; Pulled Pork Waffle Sandwich; Moroccan Lamb Meatballs; Crab-Stuffed Tempura Portabello.

$-$$

Appetizers - Crab Back; Mini Spring Roll; Spicy Fried Calamari Main Course - General Tao Chicken; Roast Duck in Thai Curry Sauce; Fish in Sichuan Spicy Sauce; Beef Sautéed in Maggi Sauce

opening hours Mon – Sun: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm Canteen: Mon – Sat 6:00 am – 8:00 pm Happy Hour: 1/2 price on selected drinks Mon – Fri: 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm Sat: 12:00 midday – 4:00 pm

sample menu

$

opening hours Mon: CLOSED Tue – Sat: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Sun: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm Some Public Holidays

RESTAURANTS 125

INS &

The Centro Restaurant

The Bungalow 519 Restaurant Restaurant & Lounge & Bar

(868) 627-5555 Invaders Bay, Audrey Jeffers Highway, Port of Spain, Trinidad, West Indies www.courtyardportofspain.com

(868) 610-BUNG (2864) 20 Rust Street, St. Clair. Trinidad W.I. reservations@thebungalowtrinidad.com

The Centro, located at the Courtyard by Marriott, is a casual dining restaurant offering a distinctive blend of local and international cuisine.

The relaxed and inviting atmosphere makes the Centro a great location for reconnecting with friends and family or entertaining a few clients over lunch. The restaurant is open seven days a week for buffet breakfast and our all-day menu features a range of à la carte options for lunch and dinner.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

sample menu

$$$

Buffalo shrimp Mexican chicken salad Grilled Vegetable flatbread Seafood delight

opening hours Mon – Fri: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm Sat, Sun & Public Holiday: 7:00 am – 12:00 pm

INS & OUTS

The Bungalow Restaurant and Lounge is a modern dining experience, serving an international fusion menu of main courses, tapas and mixed drinks. Dine in our contemporary styled restaurant and continue your night relaxing in our ambient lit outdoor lounge. We have both a full dinner menu and a selection of tapas to delight your tastebuds. Join in on our Bubbly Thurdays.

There is always something new happening at the Bungalow!

sample menu

Tapas: Mediterranean Platter, Seafood Trio Poultry & Beef: Grilled Lamb Chops, Bungalow Burger Seafood and Fish: Thai Curry Shrimp, Red Pepper Pink Salmon Sides Desserts

opening hours Dinner:

126 RESTAURANTS

$$

Tue – Thu: 5:00 pm – midnight Fri: 4:00 pm – 2:00 am Sat: 5:00 pm – 2:00 am Sun: Special Events & Private Parties – 5:00 pm – til

(868) 220-0519 Courtyard C3 Centre, San Fernando, Trinidad, West Indies confianzainvestments@gmail.com 519 Restaurant & Bar is a social hub located in south Trinidad. It is a trendy openspace for ‘liming’ and dining. Guests are just as likely to come for the famed Duck Wontons as they watch a prize fight or the CPL series!

In addition to being named after legendary Jamaican quickie, Courtney Walsh, there are great jerk options available. The lunch and dinner menu are already well known for variety and affordability! 519’s cocktails run the gamut from classics to their soughtafter SexyNGrown Bellini and the Flaming Lamborghini! Takeaway, Pickup, Dine-In

sample menu Lunch Fish Broth 519 Burger Mocha Chocolate Cake Dinner Hot Honey Mustard Wings Curry Duck Wontons Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Coconut Cloud Cake

opening hours Mon – Thu & Sun: noon – midnight Fri & Sat: noon – 2:00 am

$

Himchuli Restaurant Caffé Del Mare (868) 607-4000 (option 5 or 1646) (868) 634-4175 (Fax) Point Gourde, Chaguaramas, Trinidad, W.I. inquiries@crewsinn.com www.crewsinn.com

(868) 675-8616, 782-8489 101 El Socorro Road, San Juan, Trinidad, W.I. himchulitt@gmail.com Himchuli Restaurant has existed since the 22nd September 2014, offering a wide variety of authentic Indian, Hakka, Thai and Nepali cuisines with a mixture of Indian sweets. We pride ourselves in ensuring all of our ingredients are fresh and everything is made to order. We look forward to serving you with only the finest authentic flavours.

We’re open for lunch and dinner to dine or take away and full catering services. Private dining area, Reservation. No alcohol served.

All meats Halaal.

sample menu Vegetable or chicken mo:mo Manchurian wontons Chicken tikka masala Thai red or green curry Gobi Manchurian Garlic naan or peshwari naan Jilebi or cashew tarbuj

opening hours Mon–Sat: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm Sun: Closed Public Holidays: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Lighthouse Restaurant

$$

(868) 607-4000 (option 4 or 1645) (868) 634-4175 (Fax) Point Gourde, Chaguaramas, Trinidad, W.I. inquiries@crewsinn.com www.crewsinn.com

Our quaint coffee shop, Caffé Del Mare, is a mediterranean treat and is sure to please.

With Italian coffee, leaf teas and many epicurean delights – it’s a haven of steamy goodness. Our dynamic setting is ideal for any occasion and our personalised service will make every moment a memorable one.

Free Wi-Fi.

sample menu Breakfast Caffe del Mare Breakfast Breakfast Supreme Build your own breakfast Soup/Salads/Appetizers CrewsInn Soup du Jour Fish Cakes Sandwiches, Paninis & Wraps Turkey & Cheese, Steak Café Burger Authentic Italian Pizzas & Calzones Coffees

$

Our Lighthouse restaurant is a total sensory experience. It’s the picture perfect setting in which to savour our imaginative cuisine. Our delicious international flair, flavoured with Caribbean piquancy, is sure to impress. You can witness the day change from the delicate pink and peach of sunrise to the dramatic gold and sapphire of sunset from the breezy, open-air covered deck, with the company of our delectable cocktails.

sample menu

$$

Salads Classic Caesar Salad – (Chicken/Shrimp) Sandwiches Club Sandwich Entrées Catch of the Day Lobster Thermidor Specials from the Grill Tenderloin Steak

opening hours

opening hours

Mon: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Tue – Thu: 8:00 am – 6:30 pm Fri & Sat: 8:00 am – 9:00 pm Sun: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm Public Holidays: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm

Mon – Thu: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm Fri – Sun: 7:00 am – 10:30 pm Public Holidays: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm

RESTAURANTS 127

INS &

beyond ordinary...

...Explore the extraordinary Caribbean island.

Unspoilt, untouched, undiscovered Tobago TobagoBeyond.com | #101ReasonsTobago

TOBAGO festivals carnival 24 25

INS & OUTS

FEB

february 15-17

TOBAGO LOVES SOCA WEEKEND Canoe Bay Beach Resort, Lowlands, Tobago, 774-5555

16

NATIONAL MEDIUM CONVENTIONAL FINALS Dwight Yorke Stadium, Tobago 7 PM

24

J’OUVERT

CARNIVAL MONDAY PARADE OF THE BANDS Nationwide, 11:00 a.m. www.ncc.co.tt • www.ncbatt.com

25

CARNIVAL TUESDAY PARADE OF THE BANDS Nationwide, 7:00 a.m. www.ncc.co.tt • www.ncbatt.com

april 13

TOBAGO EASTER CRAB & GOAT RACES The Integrated Facility, Buccoo, Tobago, 709-9084

23-26

TOBAGO JAZZ EXPERIENCE (TJE) 2020 @tobagojazzexperiencett

130 FESTIVALS

2020 EVENTS IN TOBAGO may 13-16

ANR TOBAGO REGATTA @anrsailingregatta

july-august TOBAGO HERITAGE FESTIVAL @tobagofestivals @ttaltobago GREAT FÊTE WEEKEND @GreatFete

october

BLUE FOOD FESTIVAL @tobagofestivals @ttaltobago

harvest

festivals Held throughout the year hosted by various communities.

blue food festival OCTOBER

FESTIVALS 131

INS &

The Battle for Bellaforma Sunken French & Dutch Warships Reveal the History of Tobago

By Anna Walcott-Hardy

Tobago has long been a place of inspiration to many, from artists to botanists and nature lovers. If cinematic views are what you crave or a Disney-like adventure into an undiscovered world, look no further.

This stunningly scenic isle is said to have been an inspiration for Daniel Defoe when he wrote the classic novel, Robinson Crusoe, and the popular film from the 1960s, Swiss Family Robinson, was filmed entirely on location, and the monumental Samaan tree house still stands today in Goodwood.

TOP Fort James Photo: RAPSO Imaging

BOTTOM Fort King George

Photo: Jason Sookermany

Fun Fact

Its vast and varied history makes the island a haven for divers and in recent times, archaeologists.

In the aqua waters of Scarborough Harbour lie the remnants of sixteen shipwrecked ships.

Named after the tobacco crop planted by the Amerindians and the Spanish colonials, the island boasts many natural wonders, from the Buccoo Reef and Bon Accord Lagoon, a renowned Ramesar wetland, to the crystal clear Nylon Pool and the largest brain coral ever-recorded 10 ft x16ft, that you snorkel around at the reef in Speyside. But much lies unseen, in the waters below.

The island was originally settled by Amerindians cultures, the Ciboney being the pioneers; followed by those we call the Caribs and Arawaks. It’s easy to see why Christopher Columbus arguably named the isle Bellaforma (beautifully formed) or Asumpcion, when he first saw it in the late 1400s; but it wasn’t until 1580 that British seamen visited the land and recorded it as uninhabited, followed by Walter Raleigh’s lieutenant, Lawrence Keymis. It was England’s King James I who claimed the isle for the crown. However, over the centuries the island would be settled by the Dutch, fought over by the French, Spanish and then British and many times, successfully protected by the First Peoples, the original settlers.

Even after over 100 European families attempted to settle, a migration advocated by the Duke of Courland, the island treasured for its strategic location, harbour and agricultural potential would change hands over 30 times. In 1783 it was ceded to Britain, captured by France in 1781 and recaptured by the British in 1793 before becoming part of the empire in 1814. After the British defeated the Spanish, they claimed neighbouring Trinidad in 1797. And in 1889 it was annexed to Trinidad for administrative purposes.

Early in the nineteenth century African slaves were brought to Tobago and their industriousness, the forced, oppressive hours of labour they worked in the sugar cane fields, proved to be a significant source of wealth to the owners of the plantations.

Today, Tobago’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, fishing and eco-tourism, with its ties to the proven oil and gas reserves of the islands.

Its vast and varied history makes the island a haven for divers and in recent times, archaeologists.

In the aqua waters of Scarborough Harbour lie the remnants of sixteen shipwrecked ships. In the battle of 1677, Rockley Bay was the site of a significant naval battle for control of the island. In 2012 a team of local and international researchers led by Dr Kroun N Batcharov, Professor of Maritime Archaeology at the University of Connecticut and Affiliated Scholar of the Institute of Nautical Archaeology were excited to look into what the wrecks could unearth about the 17th Century.

The discovery has led the Tobago House of Assembly to authorise the Rockley Bay Research project to preserve the island’s rich maritime heritage.

FEATURE 133

INS &

Fort King George

Photo:Jason Sookermany

The discoveries have led to the development of an archaeological conservation lab in the Scarborough Harbour that’s sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism.

What do the bloody battles of the Franco-Dutch war of 1672-1678 have to do with the Caribbean and this serene island in the south of the archipelago?

This historic battle that took place in the aquamarine waters of Tobago would ultimately tilt the balance of power in Europe and the world, for decades. It took place on March 3, 1677 in Rockley Bay where Dutch and French warships battled for supremacy.

The Amsterdam Admiralty sent one of their best, Commander Jacob Binckes and a squadron of ships to one of the treasured forts to face-off against the French on a raid of their possessions.

Recognizing the threat, the French sent M. le Comte d’Estree to crush the nascent Dutch colony.

After fierce battles for two weeks, the French fleet risked it all with a daring strategy of launching a two-pronged attack by land and sea. Surprising the Dutch, the French fleet sailed two ships at a time through the narrow passage-way into the harbour

Bell Tank, Fort King George Photo:Jason Sookermany

and faced the waiting cannons, head-on. However, the unexpected and highly risky manoeuvre would benefit the French as the Dutch ships were poorly manned, although they were able to sink four of the fifteen French ships, including the prized La Glorieux and the French were forced to retreat in the chaos, the carnage was worse for their foes. Ultimately eight of the ten Dutch warships would sink to the floor of the harbour, and thousands of innocent lives were lost including mariners, women and children. Months later the French would lay claim to the isle. Although in the 1990s the dredging of the harbour destroyed many of the wrecks and artefacts, some cannons and timbers have been reclaimed. Surveys continue and geometrics have been used to search hundreds of acres for new artefacts. It’s a war story that will let us understand world history and the tumultuous fight among Imperialists for this now picturesque, stunningly beautiful land.

Visit tobagoshipwrecks.com to learn more and see the virtual museum tour.

Tobago

heritage festival

By Roslyn Carrington

Tobago Media Concepts SECTION NAMEPhotos: HERE  135 INS &

Tobago Heritage Festival

During the lead-up to Emancipation Day, Tobago is abuzz with excitement. It’s time for the Tobago Heritage Festival! For two weeks, villages square-up against village in friendly competition. Who hosts the best events? Who draws the biggest crowd? And most importantly, whose chefs have the “sweetest hand”? There’s only one way to find out. Indulge in the sweet and spicy local delicacies and witness recreations of ‘long-time’ village life. The rhythms and traditions handed down through generations make the allure of the island irresistible.

Moriah Old-Time Wedding

Return to a time when gents wore top hat and tails and damsels carried parasols in gloved hands while the lacy hems of their gowns fluttered in the breeze.

Accompany the ‘bride’, decked out in her glory, as she makes her way through the streets of Moriah to meet her ‘groom’.

She’s serenaded by traditional musicians on flutes, fiddles and drums. Join in the fun and learn to dance the ‘reel and jig’, then enjoy a ‘wedding feast’.

Black Rock Sea Festival

Many in Tobago have livelihoods that are linked to the sea, moreso at Black Rock Sea Festival. It’s all hands on the net as the “seine” is pulled in, loaded with silvery fish. Enjoy the aroma of fish being cooked on the beach. You won’t go away hungry.

INS & OUTS

Dancing the Cocoa

Say it with us: we love chocolate!

Trinidad and Tobago grows some of the best cocoa in the world. Witness it being prepared the traditional way— by dancing on the bean. It’s all part of Charlotteville National Treasures Day. Taste the sweet white pith of the cocoa bean, but leave room for the “blue food” (“ground provisions” such as yams, dasheen, cassava and sweet potatoes) that’s sure to be on sale.

See how women laundered clothes in the river, or enjoy the unbelievably refreshing taste of sugar cane juice pressed fresh in a “batty mill”.

136 SECTION NAME HERE

Ole Time Carnival and Heritage Calypso Monarch

Missed Carnival? Not to worry. Dab on some body paint—or mud, if you dare— and kick off the celebrations with the Plymouth J’Ouvert. It’s followed by a street parade of ‘pretty’ and traditional Mas’. There’s also the popular battle for the Calypso Monarch title.

Other events you don’t want to miss:

Games We Used to Play: Set your inner kid free at the Mason Hall Recreation Ground.

You never really forget how to jump rope, pitch marbles or play hopscotch.

Buccoo Goat and Crab Race

Pick your favourite and place your bets.

The competition is keen and the action doesn’t stop until the last runner crosses the line.

Folk Tales and Superstitions

Our oral tradition is rich and some stories will give you goosebumps.

Read the events calendar carefully, because there are so many more. You can learn to bake bread in a clay oven, squeeze sugar cane in a “batty mill” and admire graceful Bele dancers in motion. It all culminates in one huge celebration on Emancipation Day, August 1st.

Check out tobagoheritage festival.com Facebook: @tobagofestivals

Tobago Heritage Festival Photos: Tobago media Concepts

Photo: Christopher Anderson

explore

nnmatched BEAUTY NATGEO FEATURES AUTHENTIC & UNDISCOVERED TOBAGO

By Alva Viarruel

NatGeo Traveller’s production crew made two trips to Tobago in early 2019. Among the highlights to be featured on NatGeo will be the unique sport of goat racing - where jockeys run behind their charges - as well as the white-tailed sabre wing hummingbird which can only be found in Tobago.

“Tobago is unique in that it feels relatively untouched by the rest of the world. There is an authenticity to it which other destinations lack. This makes it an incredible place to explore and an important place to protect so that future generations can enjoy its natural beauty just as much as we have,” explained Director/ Producer Thomas Windward, part of the production team from Traveller who came to Tobago along with Cinematographer Max Smith.

Tobago’s highly respected bird expert and ecologist William Trim, led the production team through the Main Ridge Forest Reserve and to the Argyle, Parlatuvier and Castara waterfalls, utilizing his expertise to spot and identify some of the 220 species of birds found on the island.

TTAL’s chief executive Louis Lewis said in an interview that the production crew were quite blown away by what they saw.

“What they discovered is flora and fauna common to the South American mainland in an island setting, so it lends itself to a wide variety of birds and wild life.”

INS & OUTS

140 EXPLORE

Tobago’s Tourism Agency (TTAL) may soon have to change its branding taglines as the world is about to discover the island’s “unspoilt, untouched, undiscovered” beauty through several features in the National Geographic Traveller – the UK edition of one of the most iconic and widely read magazines worldwide - print and digital platforms.

TOP The production team use a drone to capture the three levels of Argyle Waterfall - Tobago’s highest waterfall.

INSET Cinematographer Max Smith films birds along the trail.

OPPOSITE PAGE The process of making dirt oven bread was also captured by the crew in Castara.

Photos courtesy: Tobago Tourism Agency Limited

NatGeo’s publication will highlight five sequential features on the island, as well as videos on the webpage hub.

“The core attractions that make Tobago attractive from a tourism perspective are the natural environment, sun, sea and sand, its cultural heritage and also a romance/wedding destination. The one most attractive is its natural environment and in looking for a partner to help promote that we couldn’t find one better known than National Geographic Traveller, hence the reason for the partnership,” Lewis added.

“This puts Tobago on a showcase we’ve never had before and it synchronizes with our go to market branding strategy. The growing trend in the world is one of reduction of greenhouse gases and focusing on environmental preservation. Tobago fits right into that with this depiction of an eco-environment friendly destination. We’ve partnered with those who are prominent in that area and there is a synergy and movement that allows us to amplify our presence,” Lewis explained.

Commenting on his experience while filming in Tobago for Traveller, Winward added,”…there is obviously a very strong community at the heart of life in Tobago. It feels like home away from home, and the natural beauty is like nothing I’ve seen before.”

EXPLORE 141

INS &

meet a tobagonian

INS & OUTS

Newton George ORNITHOLOGIST

By Kieran Andrew Khan

Newton George, avid birder, former game warden and custodian for Little Tobago has been featured in several documentaries internationally including Sir Richard Attenborough’s renowned The Trials of Life. A native of Speyside Tobago and student of wildlife conservation through the Eastern Caribbean Institute for Agriculture and Forestry, his company NG & Company Nature Tours is now sharing the beauty of the twin-island as a birding destination with hundreds of visitors annually.

Newton’s love of birds came first from his father who was also the Custodian for Little Tobago – the last resident one too. Growing up in the seaside village of Speyside tucked away in the north of the island, they would spend their vacations on Little Tobago – the tiny island located just off the coast.

They would be the only residents on the island which also serves as home to dozens of species of birds once including the Bird of Paradise, last sighted by Newton in November 1981. “I was just about eight years old when my father introduced me to birding. Of course, as a boy I loved to play cricket and football too – I was very involved in sports. But once you are introduced to birding, you never go back. The colour and beauty of each of the species is something that draws you in. And given that Tobago is home to 261 documented species in just 116 square miles, there is no better place on earth to get into it. Tobago also ranks fifth per capita for birds – which is part of the innate beauty of the island. To date, I’ve seen about 3,000 species of birds on my list which is about one-third of the 10,000 that exist!” he proudly asserts.

For the last 19 years, Newton has attended the annual British Bird Watching Fair and connected with like-minds and friends from around the world.

He has also travelled to Panama, Costa Rica, Brazil and parts of Africa and India to promote Tobago and develop his interest in a life-long hobby. He has delivered talks at the British and Canadian fairs in addition to appearing on several local and international television features. After several years of service in the Tobago Forestry Division, responsible for the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere, and as custodian for Little Tobago, his early retirement allowed him to explore his pastime further, resulting in a touring business which makes daily trips to Little Tobago as well as parts of the main islands of Tobago including the rainforest he once tended.

142 MEET A TOBAGONIAN

So entwined is his life with the love of birds, that his home in Speyside is a destinationmust for visitors to the island to witness the myriad of hummingbirds that sip at the feeders scattered around the property. While his son is just getting into the family’s favourite activity, he also recently took several children under his wing and began training tours for a new generation, all at the age he was when his father first took him on birding adventures.

“I want to establish this group as a way of keeping this tradition and respect for what we have to offer alive. I want that and them, to be my legacy.”

In Full

Flight Tobago’s Rich and Rare Diversity makes it a top Birding Destination

By Alva Viarruel

Birds, whether it’s the Rufous-vented Chachalaca, the White-tailed Jacamar or the beloved Cocrico, they are certainly attracting a flock of visitors to the island.

Tobago, with its 220 species of birds, and boast of being the only place in the world where the White-tailed Sabre-wing Hummingbird resides, is in on the action and will soon see an influx of “birders” as the Tobago Tourism Agency (TTAL) ramps up its branding drive.

TTAL’s chief executive Louis Lewis notes the island’s popularity “is actually growing. Birding is a growing trend which presents a unique opportunity to showcase something rare and interesting. The National Audubon Society says Tobago has the fifth highest birding species per capita in the world. Given the size of the island and the number of species that we have it just may very well be that Tobago is the easiest place to see a rare specie of bird in the world. For us it’s a very important market and there are some interesting strong points we have that make it an ideal market for us.”

This was evident in the popularity of Tobago at the annual Birdfair in Rutland Water Nature Reserve in Leicestershire, United Kingdom, in August 2019. The booth was judged second best among exhibitors at the event which is the largest of its kind in the UK, attracting more than 23,000 visitors annually.

The team was able to educate birding enthusiasts and experts on the unique aspects of birding in Tobago and highlight the commercial travel packages that are available to birdwatchers considering the destination.

TTAL engaged BBC’s Wildlife Magazine to prominently feature Tobago in the British Birdwatching Fair Guide which allowed the destination to be exposed to 226,000 readers.

The partnership with the BBC subsidiary also allowed Tobago exposure on digital platforms, with a “website takeover” and boosted social media posts.

Tobago’s premier bird-watching and natural history guide Newton George, who was with the team in the UK, expressed joy at the experience which he looks forward to every

FROM THE TOP White-tailed Sabrewing Rufous-tailed Jacamar

Photos: Stephen Jay Photography

year. Tobago remains a “major birding destination” he said, and as more guides get involved he expects the sector to grow. “There is definitely a brighter future for birding here but the industry needs private sector investment to grow.”

EXPLORE 143

INS &

Kilgwyn Bay

Castara

Photo: Jason Sookermany

Photo: RAPSO Imaging

Best

TOBAGO BEACHES

Photo: Devan Mulchansingh

Grafton Beach

Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Mt. Irvine

Photo: RAPSO Imaging

Photo: Coco Reef Resort & Spa

Coconut Bay

No Man’s land

Photo: Devan Mulchansingh

Best TOBAGO

beaches Castara

Even from the look-out the crescent-shaped bay seems surreal. This picturesque fishing village is lined with coconut and almond trees and boasts turquoise waters and two bays, aptly named Little and Big, that are great for snorkeling.

Coconut Bay

Enjoy the warm aquamarine waters and lush gardens bordering this private beach, just minutes from the airport, that’s part of the exclusive Coco Reef Resort and Spa.

Mt Irvine

Clear jade-green waters, a coral reef teeming with a myriad of fish, as well as modern amenities, make this a popular choice for many, and for good reason.

No Man’s Land

Paradise found: an uninhabited natural spit in the Bon Accord Lagoon, with bleached coral sands and shallow, crystal-blue waters. You can enjoy a swim or sip some rum punch in the shade of a palm tree.

Grafton Beach

Broad, expansive white sands and blue-green waters that many surfers enjoy, with a few rock-pools that are great for kids to explore, make this beach a popular choice.

Kilgwyn Bay

Just north of the airport, you can bathe in the calm, shallow waters and relax in one of the comfortable beach huts. With almond trees, pink-tinged coral sands and a nearby reef, it’s perfect for a family retreat.

Photo: Devan Mulchansingh

y e Kenn

: Duan

Photo

On your visit to Tobago be sure to get in some snorkeling. You’ll find beautiful underwater landscapes and an abundant of bright and vibrant marine life, along with different species of colourful coral.

Here’s some locations visitors just can’t seem to get enough of.

• Storebay • Buccoo Reef • Mt Irvine Reef • Arnos Vale Bay • Castara • Charlotteville • Speyside

Tobago

tobago DIVE

Bioluminescence

TOUR

Have you ever wanted to feel like Peter Pan, flying over Never Never Land covered in pixie dust, then put a Tobago Bioluminescence tour on your bucket list.

Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by a living organism, and Tobago is blessed with year-round plankton. Of course like all living things you have to know when to go to get the best experience. Some nights the moon is too bright or the wind is from the wrong direction, so going with an experienced operator is paramount to getting the most of this experience. Stand Up Paddle Tobago and Radical Sports founded Bioluminescence Tours in Tobago 8 years ago and have been learning more and more about the marine creatures of the night. We have also continued to have a zero carbon foot print with our tours, with no gas, plastic or waste of any kind.

We are 100% green!

STAND UP PADDLE Tel: (868) 681-4741 www.standuppaddletobago.com

INS & OUTS

A DAY TOUR

of a lifetime

By Anna Walcott-Hardy

If you’re interested in discovering some of the most idyllic beaches and coral reefs on the island, while enjoying a sumptuous seafood lunch, then this Day Tour is made for you.

You can start with an early morning trip to the Mangrove Boardwalk at Tobago Plantations, near to the Magdalena Hotel and Golf Course. It’s a ten-minute drive from the airport. Discover the latticed beauty of one of the eight fairly small wetlands on the island. The mangrove swamp which borders the lagoon is a rich and bio-diverse habitat, where you can see brightly coloured crabs and several birds including egrets exploring the mud flats below. It’s an interesting walk along a wooden-planked trail that you’ll enjoy in the cool of the morning or at dusk.

Then after you’ve packed some water, fresh fruit and don’t forget the snorkelling gear, drive along the coast to the idyllic Mount Irvine beach.

Teeming with marine life, a refreshing swim in the emerald green waters of the bay and you may find fish, turtles and crabs on the western side of the promontory.

Then it’s the picturesque Northside Road that will take you to one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, Englishman’s Bay. After a refreshing swim in the crystal, clear water, enjoy some delicious fresh fish and chips or local provisions for lunch, topped off with coconut ice cream for dessert, at the seaside restaurant. Pick up some trinkets and then continue your journey north to Speyside just in time for the 2pm or 4pm boat-ride to Little Tobago to see the red-billed tropicbird, Audubon’s shearwater, brown booby and bridled terns. After a snorkel in the reef nearby where you can view the monumental brain coral, you’ll return for a lovely sundowner before heading home.

For the adventurous and energetic, we recommend a bioluminescence tour in the Bon accord Lagoon in the evening. It’s a magical display of phytoplankton you can enjoy from your kayak; the voyage takes you into a world where the luminous green light makes the stingrays or water cucumbers emerge in a phosphorescent glow. A perfect end to an unforgettable day.

148 EXPLORE

FROM THE TOP Mount Irvine Bay Photo: Mark Hardy

Englishman’s Bay

Photo: Christopher Anderson

away from home Personalise your vacation in a self-contained apartment or villa or just experience a comfortable, cosy bed-and-breakfast or guesthouse.

Tobago has accommodation to suit every taste and budget. Wherever you choose to rest your head, Tobago is the ideal getaway!

Caribbean Estates, Lands & Villas (868) 639-LAND / 639-5263 / 639-9663 Cor. Milford & Golden Grove Roads, Canaan, Tobago info@realestatetobago.com www.realestatetobago.com Friendly, professional staff with a wealth of experience in the Tobago real estate and villa rental markets coupled with a wide variety of properties for sale and rent has made us the industry leader. We look forward to helping you find your perfect holiday getaway or your new Tobago home.

Villas Are Us Ltd. (868) 481-5986 / 326-0543 Black Rock, Tobago, West Indies yourtobago@gmail.com gillian@tobagovillasareus.com www.tobagovillasareus.com We are Tobago’s premier full-service, luxury vacation agency. Our villas are among the most beautifully appointed and ideally situated on the island. While each has its own unique appeal, all offer the very best in accommodation and amenities. Our caring staff is committed to seeing that your every need is met.

SeaJade Investments (868) 631-JADE (5233); (868) 639-6636 P.O. Box 1107, Bon Accord, Tobago, W.I. seajadeinvestments@gmail.com www.seajadeinvestments.com Exclusively Tobago real estate agency serving this unique tourism-driven market.

Broker Dawn Glaisher represents Tobago on the board of the national Association of Real Estate Agents and Alison de Freitas is a registered Sales Associate.

Their 20 years together in real estate represent amazing breadth and depth of experience drawn on for the benefit of clients. SeaJade is FIU registered.

inspiration TOBAGO

INS & OUTS

Helen Evans draws all the inspiration for her work from the beauty of Tobago. She tries to capture this beauty through her forms and glazed surfaces, chanelling colours, textures and motifs of Tobago into her ceramics.

Having spent time away researching and developing her craft, she recreates Tobago’s natural forms and colours in her designs and it is a never-ending source of artistic inspiration.

Each new design takes about 3 months to complete as she modifies shapes and glazes until perfect and repeatable.

She produces ceramics for visitors to encourage them to return to Tobago, but she also creates pieces for residents that will fit into their beautiful island homes.

Handcrafted in Tobago

Pigeon Point Heritage Park • Pigeon Point Road, Tobago (868) 631-8101 • planetceramics.com • @planetceramics

150 SHOPPING

“Each individual item is lovingly handcrafted from stoneware clay and high-fired with my uniquelyformulated signature glazes. These materials and processes create durable, practical and decorative products that can be used, not just admired. There are different creative techniques including coiling, press moulding and throwing on the potter’s wheel,

all handmade right here in Tobago. My ceramics range from large decorative art pieces to smaller useable ceramics”.

Helen’s work is produced and sold exclusively through her Tobago studio and showroom near the jetty within Pigeon Point Heritage Park.

Interactive Experience

As a unique visitor experience, she offers the opportunity to participate in demonstrations of how the ceramic pieces are made, and organises workshops aimed at involving visitors and customers in a more interactive way. She loves to encourage the creativity of visitors and provide them with a memorable experience as well as something to take home.

So come and spend an afternoon at the studio and make your own piece of ceramic art. At the end of the workshop, choose your favourite colour from her in-house glaze collection and it will be fired and glazed for you. You are promised a fun and exciting experience!

SHOPPING 151

INS &

Photo: Christopher Anderson

entertainment

INS & OUTS

LEFT Toni Braxton INSET Michael Bolton Photos: Andrea De Silva Viarruel

154 SECTION NAME HERE

2019 Tobago

By Alva Viarruel

Jazz festivals in Tobago have been something of a hit and miss in recent times, but the 2019 Tobago Jazz Experience managed for the first time by the Tobago Festivals Commission, can be summed up in one simple phrase: short and sweet.

If we’re to believe the exit survey of the Tobago Tourism Agency (TTAL) then for certain the 2019 Tobago Jazz Experience was a success. With an impressive 75% of respondents claiming satisfaction with the product and an even higher 83% expressing a willingness to return in 2020, the organizers of the well patronized shows must be very pleased indeed.

It was no surprise, though, to see Chief Secretary Kelvin Charles and members of his executive doing the electric boogie in the VIP section at the scenic Speyside grounds, as Jamaican entertainer Marcia Griffith performed her signature song. The veteran artist had invited guests on stage to “boogie” with her and was clearly the hit of the night.

Interestingly, it was the first time the island’s Festivals Commission charged an entry fee to the venue for what is billed as Caribbean Night, but as Chief Secretary Charles noted afterward, such was the turnout, that vendors also sold-out.

Apart from the food fare, the offering on stage was certainly up to par with local artist Olatunji Yearwood wowing his audience with his trademark pumpedup performance.

Local band, Imij & Co, were also high-energy

and engaging, providing back-up for the local acts as well.

The show followed the preliminary offering of the four-day music concert series dubbed Jazz on the Waterfront, which featured a host of local acts. Newcomer LeAndra stood out, as she performed genuine jazz and classic songs, leaving the audience begging for an encore.

Local diva Vaughnette Bigford pleased fans on the International Night, closing concert performances with her polished signature act.

Desperadoes, the steelband from the hills of Laventille, rocked the house with their perfect execution of several pieces as internationally known Tobago pannist Cannon Jack joined their ranks under the guidance of the talented Clive Zanda; followed by the self-proclaimed king of soul, Jacquees.

The last in the concert trilogy had not one but two feature acts, with veteran Michael Bolton proving to be a true crowd pleaser. Ageing like fine wine, his powerful voice resonated, proving he was as powerful on stage as he is in the studio. Bolton engaged his audience with the story behind his compositions that have become timeless treasures. Closing the show was the American singing diva Toni Braxton who showed a love and appreciation for the fans as they sang along during her selection of chart-topping hits. Another successful year, for an event that continues to grow in size and talent.

FB: visittobago www.tobagobeyond.com

ENTERTAINMENT 155

INS &

INS & OUTS

weddings TOBAGO

By Tevin R. Gall

156 SECTION NAME HERE

While Trinidad brings the bustle and the Carnival beat, Tobago offers the stuff of vacation dreams, making it the perfect place to celebrate a special romance.

Richard Carrington, event planner, marketing strategist and founder of Keith Austin Creative Agency has put together many a successful wedding on the sister isle.

Photo: Christopher Anderson

With their all-inclusive packages and spacious venues, hotel ballrooms are a popular standard option for couples and can be easily customized. “Attractive group rates entitle clients to a discount on the rental,” Carrington explained. Packages often include items such as wedding candles and decorating services.

The elegant dining and cocktail facilities are juxtaposed with the allure of the beach nearby.

“Lots of couples want that beach-wedding setting,” Carrington admits. Hotels that are located near the water provide the best of both worlds, offering the sought-after beach experience, as well as the comfort of indoor facilities. “You can have a cocktail reception on the beach at sunset before moving into the pavilion to start dinner.”

In addition to the traditional hotels, there are also villas on the island with modern amenities that are wrapped in classic Caribbean design, they may offer somewhat of a more residential feel, giving the reception a breezier, more comfortable vibe. Carrington advises those who prefer this type of setting to visit Grafton Ridge, as well as in the capital, Scarborough. Facilities such as pool decks and gazebos add character to the event and can be incorporated into the reception or even the wedding ceremony.

“With the sea as a backdrop, a gazebo is the perfect touch for a ceremony site,” Carrington added. He also suggested that, unlike at most hotels where clients are restricted to the menu, villas provide private kitchen facilities and may often have housekeeping staff.

Carrington, who has spent several years living in Tobago while working in hospitality management, referred to the island as a “onestop shop” in that it offers varied premium facilities and creative services with the added vacation element. “There are several venues and a small network of talented people.” With a range of sites and services, Tobago offers all you need to make your special day a truly memorable one.

SECTION NAME HERE 157

INS &

INS & OUTS

THE ACTION ATTRACTION

By Sheldon Waithe

158 SECTION NAME HERE

Tobago’s capacity to host varied and unique sporting events, of all sizes, continued apace in 2019 and maintains the trajectory for burgeoning sports tourism on the island in 2020.

Year upon year, visitors from across the globe discover the delight of competing, or simply testing themselves, in an environment that capitalizes on the island’s amazing biodiversity coupled with modern facilities. Throw in the performances of Tobagonians that honed their talents on this stage - Dwight Yorke, Kelly Ann Baptiste, Claude Noel, Akeem Stewart (to name but a few) - and all the inspiration is provided.

The sea, of course, plays a major part in this sporting paradise. Fishing calls for experience to complement skill and it all counted for a lot as the crew of Magic Lady, repeated their 2018 Marlin Madness victory. They caught (and released) 15 Billfish on their way to the title - the 39th year that the popular tournament has been held - with the bonus of earning the chance to represent T&T at the Offshore World Championship 2020 in Costa Rica. www.ttgfa.com Somewhat faster boats took part in the aptly named Great Race, celebrating its 51st year and sealing its place as one of the longest running offshore races in the world. Great in length (between Trinidad and Tobago), great in the challenge it offers, great in excitement and a great weekend of festivities on the island ensues each year. Team Energiza overcame the ubiquitous Mr Solo Too, to set-up a mouth-watering revenge meet when the boats once again roar come August 2020. thettpba.com/great-race It wouldn’t be paradise without golf tournaments on some foremost courses, would it? In February, the Scarborough Cup made a welcome return to the Tobago sporting calendar after a three-year hiatus.

Local players teed-off with golfers from Canada and Barbados on the fabled Mt. Irvine course, kicking-off a year on the greens that included the Chief Secretary’s Charity Tournament (June) and September’s regional South Caribbean Open. www.mytobago.info

High temperatures in June made the annual Massy Rainbow Cup Triathlon even more of a challenge, particularly for the sizeable international contingent. Frenchman Clement Briere and Canadian Nina Sieh took the Olympic distance honours on Turtle Beach, with the usual plethora of events such as the Try-A-Tri, Youth and Relay events, attracting thousands. www.rainbowcuptobago.com It was also a clean sweep by foreigners in the Sea to Sea Marathon, with Richer Cobas (Puerto Rico) and Palmenia Berrio (Venezuela). The race itself is as its name suggests, unique, taking runners on an undulating course from Bloody Bay on the Caribbean Sea side, through the forests at Roxborough and along the coastal road past Scarborough, to finish at Little Rockly Bay (the Atlantic Ocean side). www.seatoseamarathon.com The annual arrival of Dragon Boat racers took on another level with Pigeon Point hosting the Pan American Club Crew Championships. The international flavour was also present at October’s Tobago Cycling Classic, with five days of varied racing culminating in USA’s Scott McGill taking the overall title. The event, like the Rainbow Cup, also offers racing for all categories of cyclists beyond the elite athletes, making it a bucket list item for riders across the globe. www.trinbagowheelers.com These mainstays on the calendar ensure that the island fulfils its international sporting potential but it’s the opportunity that Tobago offers everyone - to golf on landscaped seafront courses, windsurf across clear waters or play tennis in an ultramodern facility such as Shaw Park - that is the real action attraction of this island.

LEFT FROM THE TOP Great Race Massy Rainbow Cup INSET Surfing

Photos: Richard Lyder

RIGHT Wind Surfing

Photo: Edison Boodoosingh

SECTION NAME HERE 159

INS &

INS & OUTS

Dragon Boat

Racing in T&T

By Sheldon Waithe

The exceptional backdrop that is Pigeon Point Heritage Park served as the host with a difference for the 2019 Pan American Club Crew Championships. The event - deemed a major success - was the icing on the cake for local Dragon Boat racing, which has become extremely popular across all ages in T&T, with events ranging from the Excellent Stores Inter School Regatta to San Fernando’s annual Independence Day festival.

With over 1,000 visitors and 41 teams taking part, competition was fierce, espousing the Dragon Boat racing virtues of team work, strength in numbers and perseverance. The crucial support from the likes of Caribbean Airlines and the Tobago House of Assembly emphasized those same qualities, that stakeholders working in cohesion can produce a global standard event.

Concerns about the lack of flat water - a staple for Dragon Boat racing - subsided with the first glimpse of Pigeon Point: well Tobago does have that effect. President of the Pan American Dragon Boat Federation, Franco Siu Chong, said that “This has been an amazing tournament. All the visiting participants loved the facilities, the sun, sand and sea. The boats are exceptional and ideal to navigate Tobago’s waters. They have withstood the conditions”.

Rising to the occasion, Tobago’s very own team, Oceanus, used home advantage to take three golds, four silvers and a bronze medal while the ubiquitous Aquaholics represented Trinidad with a bronze in the open final.

The sport’s infrastructure remains solid, with a full domestic calendar, participation in global events and the considerable advantage of strong high school participation to whet the appetite for competition and make the regattas and festivals true family events. Throw in the considerable support of the private and public sectors and Dragon Boat racing in T&T will continue its growth, with everyone pulling in the same direction.

Photos: Wendell Nana-Moore - Fresh Flashbooth

160 SECTION NAME HERE

SPORTS calendar february 16-17

SCARBOROUGH CUP GOLF Plantations, Tobago TOBAGO CARNIVAL REGATTA

march 7-8

TTGFA WAHOO TOURNAMENT

31-4 APR

MARLIN MADNESS TOURNAMENT

may 13-16

ANR TOBAGO REGATTA

13-16

october

NATIONAL SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS

SEA TO SEA MARATHON Bloody Bay & Scarborough

Photo: Richard Lyder

july

june 13

12-16

25

august

TOBAGO MOTOR RALLY Grafton

RAINBOW CUP INTERNATIONAL TRIATHLON Grafton, Tobago

TOBAGO DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Pigeon Point, Tobago www.facebook.com/pg/TTDBF/ community/

22

Photo: Shaun Rambaran

THE TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO GREAT RACE Race begins at 6:00 a.m. off the Foreshore, finishes in Store Bay, Tobago, www.ttpba.net

october

STORE BAY OPEN WATER SWIMMING CLASSIC Tobago NATIONAL SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS Mt. Irvine, Tobago

november

BAGO BEACH FOOTBALL INTERNATIONAL

Photo: Richard Lyder

SPORTS  161

INS &

stay in style

Photo: Christopher Anderson

INS & OUTS

Blue Waters Inn (868) 660-4341, (868) 660-2583 Batteaux Bay, Speyside, Tobago, West Indies bwi@bluewatersinn.com | www.bluewatersinn.com Blue Waters Inn is the best kept secret in Tobago. We are surrounded by 46 acres of lush greenery, nestled in a private bay, and every room faces the turquoise waters of Batteaux Bay. This beachfront boutique resort has everything you need for your true escape. Our luxurious rooms are literally steps from sea and sand, and our stunning infinity pool and hot tub look out onto Little Tobago island. We are minutes from some of the most exciting dive sites in the Caribbean, including our newly sunk dive wreck, The Trinity, which sits in our bay. We have our own state-of-the-art PADI 5-Star dive facility on site. Experience waterfront dining and a mouthwatering menu at AQUA at Blue Waters Inn, which is also a fully functioning conference centre and event space, catering to weddings and other special functions. We are a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence winner, for six consecutive years.

Stay, Explore, Indulge!

Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort (868) 660-8500 | Fax (868) 660-8503 Tobago Plantations Estate, Lowlands, Tobago info@magdalenagrand.com www.magdalenagrand.com

The Magdalena Grand in Tobago has everything you want. This ocean-front resort gives you a choice of swimming pools, patios, beach, spa, tennis and championship golf. There are six different choices of bars and restaurants, and the dining experience couldn’t be better. The resort’s 178 rooms, including 22 suites, have incredible views, and families love our kids’ club and playground, which entertain our youngest guests. Enjoy all the wonderful amenities of Magdalena Grand and escape from the everyday. Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort has it all. Discover the “True Caribbean”.

Miller’s Guest House (868) 660-8371, 631-0492, 772-5609 (Guest House) (868) 631-1349, 767-9574 (Restaurant) 14 Miller Street, Buccoo Point, Tobago, West Indies. office@millersguesthouse.com | www.millersguesthouse.com

Overlooking unspoilt Buccoo Bay, Miller’s Guest House has fully-airconditioned, budget-friendly, self-catering apartments, dorm beds, single, double and triple rooms with free WiFi to accommodate single travellers, couples, groups and families of all sizes. We offer an informal setting, breakfast-inclusive packages and tour booking service for various activities. Everything from island tours, reef tours, fishing, golfing, mountain biking, diving, snorkelling, horseback riding to yoga or even massage therapies. Our onsite Luvinia’s Seafood & Steak Restaurant offers scenic, waterfront dining and delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner plus a full cocktail list in the evening.

164 STAY IN STYLE

INS & OUTS

Sunspree Resort Ltd. (868) 631-5195 / 631-5196 | (868) 631-5195 (fax) #40 Store Bay Local Road, Crown Point, Tobago sunspreeresort@ramlagansholdings.com www.sunspreeresortltd.com

Sunspree Resort delights guests with luxurious accommodation, gourmet dining, and close proximity to some of Tobago’s exotic beaches. The resort is five minutes’ walk from the ANR Robinson International Airport. This Caribbean getaway boasts 19 rooms, each offering a view of either our garden or our swimming pool.

Different room and suite categories accommodate families of all sizes. We offer free Wi-Fi. Sunspree Resort is suitable for those who crave action and adventure, those interested in relaxation, or even those who are looking for romance. We even provide an idyllic paradise where all your wedding and honeymoon dreams can come true. TRIPADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE 2013 WINNER!

Crown Point Beach Hotel (868) 639-8781/3 | Fax (868) 639-8731 Store Bay Local Road, Crown Point, Tobago. reservations@crownpointbeachhotel.com www.crownpointbeachhotel.com

Set on seven acres of beautifully landscaped grounds overlooking Store Bay, one of Tobago’s finest beaches. Within walking distance of the airport and the wellknown Pigeon Point beach.

Accommodation comprises studios, cabanas and one-bedroom apartments. All rooms have an ocean view, kitchenette, bathroom, hair dryer, cable television and telephone. The poolside restaurant and bar caters for all your food and beverage requirements.

Recreational facilities include swimming pool, tennis courts, table tennis and shuffleboard, and there are free Internet facilities for our guests. From our grounds you can walk down steps that lead to Store Bay beach.

Plantation Beach Villas (868) 639-9377 Stonehaven Bay Rd., Black Rock, Tobago info@plantationbeachvillas.com www.plantationbeachvillas.com

Located on Tobago’s Caribbean coast, the six well-appointed three-bedroom villas, fashioned in classical turn-of-the-century colonial architecture, are nestled in a grove of tropical trees, on a gently sloping hillside overlooking the palmfringed Grafton Beach. The emphasis is on elegant comfort amidst the serenity of nature. Each villa is fitted with all the modern amenities and your own villa attendant. The resort is ideal for a family holiday, reunion or an intimate wedding.

Our ‘family’ of friendly staff and the ambiance and warmth we provide assure a taste of paradise.

166 STAY IN STYLE

STAY IN STYLE  167

INS &

INS & OUTS

Johnston Apartments (868) 639-8915, 631-5160 (TOBAGO) (868) 627-1927 (POS) | (868) 631-5112 (Fax) Store Bay, Tobago, West Indies johnapt.tt@gmail.com | www.johnstonapartments.com

The Johnston Apartments in Tobago are magnificently located on Store Bay Beach, moments away from Crown Point International Airport, nightclubs, shopping and the island’s best food. This vacation destination is ideal in every way.

You can relax and unwind in our spacious one-bedroom apartments overlooking the sea. Each room is fully air-conditioned and self-contained, complete with a modern kitchen. Cleaning services are provided daily. Whilst staying at Johnston Apartments, you have the use of Crown Point Beach Hotel’s pool, restaurant, tennis court and conference facilities. The natural and man-made wonders will make your stay unforgettable.

Petit Point Cottage At Tobago Plantations

(868) 681-4741 54 Samaan Grove, Golden Grove Road, Canaan, Tobago duanekenny@hotmail.com

When we say we are on the waters, we are on the water!

Two en-suite bedrooms, sleeps four and located just off the waters edge in Petit Trou lagoon. The cottage has two canoes, two stand up paddle boards, is fully air conditioned and has all the amenities you could possibly need, along with high speed internet.

Surf Side Hotel (868) 639-9702 (868) 639-0614 (Tel/Fax) 8:30 am – 8:30 pm Pigeon Point Road, Crown Point, Tobago, West Indies surfsidetobago@gmail.com | www.surfsidehotel.online

Surf Side Hotel Ltd. is a family oriented business situated on the entrance to Pigeon Point Heritage Park in the heart of Crown Point. We are five minutes’ walk to the famous Store Bay beach, in close proximity to restaurants, pubs, casinos, pizza shops, mini marts and more. Our apartments are all selfcontained with air-conditioning, hot & cold shower, cable TV and free Wi-Fi. We offer accommodation for single occupancy, couples, families and groups.

Studio apartments (two persons), deluxe apartments (two persons), superior apartments (four persons), family apartments (six persons).

168 STAY IN STYLE

Kariwak Village Hotel (868) 639-8442 Store Bay Local Road, Crown Point, Tobago info@kariwak.com www.kariwak.com

Renowned for its warmth and charm, Kariwak has been a beloved home away from home for nationals and visitors alike for over 35 years. Cosy rooms are nestled in lush, peaceful gardens and tucked in around the ozonated, chlorine-free pool. The Kariwak Village Restaurant serves delicious meals with love every day. Morning yoga classes are held in the stunning open-air ajoupa and a range of massage treatments are available on-site by appointment. Hammocks and a jacuzzi in the garden and a variety of community events and wellness retreats throughout the year provide endless opportunities to relax, restore and reconnect, mind, body and soul, on your own or with family and friends.

Come home to yourself; come home to Kariwak!

Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort Ltd (868) 639-8512-3; (868) 639-9605 (Fax) Crown Point, Tobago, W.I. (868) 671-9143, 671-0631; (868) 665-9236 (Fax) Administration Office: 78–79 La Clave Street, Lange Park, Chaguanas, Trinidad, W.I. tropikistbeachhotelresort@gmail.com | www.tropikist.com

Amazing, fun filled vacations begin at Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort. Nestled on five acres of exquisitely landscaped property, it offers a captivating view of the coastline and warmly welcomes you to the warmth of island life. Its LOCATION on the south-western side of the island in the Crown Point area, five minutes away from ANR Robinson International Airport, and 10 minutes from beaches, historical sites and other amenities is unmatched. ACTIVITIES include diving, hiking, swimming, and relaxing spa treatments. Facilities comprise two restaurants, two pools – a free-form pool with a children’s pool, and a diving pool – and a Jacuzzi. Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort ... Your Tropical Destination.

STAY IN STYLE 169

INS &

restaurants

AQUA Blue Waters Inn (868) 660-4341 Batteaux Bay, Speyside, Tobago reservations@bluewatersinn.com www.bluewatersinn.com AQUA is located in the eco-chic resort, Blue Waters Inn, in Speyside, Tobago. AQUA offers breakfast, lunch and dinner with an intimate view of the dazzling turquoise waters of Batteaux Bay. Enjoy an inclusive day with us; take a dip in the infiniti pool or stroll our beach with a fresh cocktail in hand, and finish with a mouthwatering lunch on the beachfront deck. In the evening, we transform into an exquisite dining experience, where you can choose to savour our fresh and fabulous menu under the stars, or seated in our elegant indoor space.

We cater for weddings & special events.

Café Coco

The Pasta Gallery

(868) 639-0996 (Reservations) (868) 639-8574 (Fax) First left off Pigeon Point Road, Crown Point, Tobago reservations@cafe-coco.biz www.cocoreef.com

(868) 727-8200 (PASTA-00) Pigeon Point Road, Crown Point, Tobago

Café Coco is the most spectacular restaurant and bar in the region, with seating for 200.

It features waterfalls, fountains, marble bathrooms and hand-painted tiles, all synchronised to create an exotic atmosphere of charm and beauty amidst impeccable landscaping. Our chefs, from their open kitchen, offer a wide range of reasonably priced dishes, carefully selected to excite every palate. We offer a perfect venue for weddings, graduations, birthday parties and other group functions.

Available for Dinner.

Superbly located on the way to Pigeon Point, The Pasta Gallery features a unique fusion of restaurant and art gallery. Start with a refreshing salad or crispy bruschetta, then savour homemade sauce simmered to perfection over a hearty serving of pasta.

While enjoying the ‘trattoria’ experience, don’t forget to take in the local art that surrounds you. Come and relax in our cool yet cosy atmosphere and relish the simple art of good food. Feel free to call ahead to place your takeaway order.

Dine in, Takeaway, Bar.

sample menu

$

Batteaux Bay Shrimp Salad Tuna Tartar Sizzling Mango Chicken Fajitas Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Cedar Plank Salmon Lobster Baja Tacos Crab and Dumpling

Rack of baby back pork ribs Duo of grilled chicken breast & leg Papa John Shrimp Linguini Surf & Turf Local Road Coco Pizza Vegetable pasta Waterfront grilled fish

Tomato bruschetta Italian meat & cheese platter Lobster ravioli Baked meat lasagne Gluten free & whole wheat pastas available Chicken/shrimp/mixed seafood/veg alfredo Linguine al Pesto Shrimp marinara Tiramisu, cheesecake Gelato

opening hours

opening hours

opening hours

Breakfast: 7:30 am – 10:00 am Lunch: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm Bar snacks: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm Dinner: 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm

Mon–Sun: 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Thu – Mon: 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm Tue & Wed: Closed

sample menu

INS & OUTS

172 RESTAURANTS

$$

sample menu

$-$$

Kali’na Restaurant Caribbean Fusion Upscale Dining (868) 660-8500; (868) 660-8503 (Fax) Tobago Plantations Estate, Lowlands, Tobago info@magdalenagrand.com www.magdalenagrand.com Discover the unique Caribbean Fusion cuisine in an upscale and romantic environment in one of the top restaurants in Trinidad and Tobago. The chef features traditional Caribbean or Creole recipes prepared in a modern European way, as well as dishes from all over the world, refined with exotic Caribbean ingredients.

We’re open only for dinner.

sample menu Starters Caesar Salad Mini Crab Cakes Smoked Salmon Pork Kebab Main Course Pork Tenderloin Pan Seared Chicken Breast New York Striploin Steak Pan Seared Local Catch of the Day Blackened Salmon Desserts Fruit Salad Chocolate Cake Cheesecake

$$

Pembois Restaurant & Terrace All Day Dining Main Restaurant

(868) 660-8500; (868) 660-8503 (Fax) Tobago Plantations Estate, Lowlands, Tobago info@magdalenagrand.com www.magdalenagrand.com Each morning we feature an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet. The menu changes daily, so you will enjoy different hot items every day or choose eggs made to order. It’s the most popular breakfast on the island. Pembois is also open daily for lunch and dinner.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

sample menu Salads Pineapple Shrimp Fry Flying Fish & Ochro Platters & Specialties Calamari, Octopus Mussels, Pepper Shrimp Meats & Fish Fish & Coconut Bake Ginger Chicken Curry Seafood & Dumpling Desserts Chef’s Assorted Desserts

$$

Salaka Grill Ocean Front & Pool-side Restaurant (868) 660-8500; (868) 660-8503 (Fax) Tobago Plantations Estate, Lowlands, Tobago info@magdalenagrand.com www.magdalenagrand.com Salaka offers a delicious selection of pizza, salads, grilled fish, and meat or vegetarian dishes for a relaxing lunch poolside, overlooking the ocean. At night, Salaka Grill turns into a romantic seafood grill with a catch of the day and seafood pasta, along with seafood tapas and antipasto. Try our homemade pizzas.

Lunch & Dinner

sample menu

$$

Starters Bruschetta Crispy Calamari Italian Bar & Grill – Build your pasta dish We’ll then cook it to perfection using the ingredients you selected Pasta: Fettuccini, Spaghetti, Gluten Free Vegetables: Broccoli, Eggplant, Mushroom Meats: Crispy Bacon, Steak, Shrimp

RESTAURANTS 173

INS &

Luvinia’s Seafood & Steak Restaurant

The Seahorse Inn Restaurant & Bar

(868) 631-1349 / 767-9574 Miller’s Guesthouse #14 Miller Street, Buccoo Point, Tobago, West Indies luvinias@outlook.com

(868) 639-0686 Grafton Beach Road, Stonehaven Bay, Black Rock, Tobago, West Indies seahorseinntobago@gmail.com www.seahorseinntobago.com

Tobago’s No. 1 beachfront restaurant, with excellent food and a fantastic view. Sit back, relax, converse and watch the sun rise and set over Buccoo Bay. Our professional staff will cater to your every need. Try one of our refreshing cocktails on the sun terrace.

Sample the delicious fresh seafood in our open-air restaurant, and enjoy the catch of the day from the local fisherman at the jetty in front of the restaurant.

Free Wi-Fi access, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Bar and Takeaway. Available for Functions.

Intimate alfresco beach-side dining under the stars. Award-winning food and service, an exceptional wine list, extensive bar selection, in a romantic tropical setting. Regularly featured in the international media. Regarded as Tobago’s premier dining experience and a “must do” whilst on the island. Make a reservation, go early in your visit as you will want to return. Also great for viewing nesting leatherback turtles between March and September. We cater for Receptions, Weddings & Functions, both on and off premises.

sample menu

sample menu

$$-$$$

Starters Traditional Ceviche Fosforera Shrimp Tarragon Main Course Lobster A La Española House Special Luvinia’s Grilled Fish Miller’s Lamb

opening hours Tue–Sun: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm

INS & OUTS

174 RESTAURANTS

Spiced Fried Calamari Tuna Ceviche Duck Rillets Mixed Vegetable Antipasti Lobster Thermidor Crab-stuffed Grouper Fillet Pineapple-glazed Duck Breast Tenderloin & Rib Eye Steaks Shrimps Mornay Rack of Lamb

opening hours Daily for dinner: 5:30 pm – 10.30 pm

Anchor Bar & Grill (868) 660-5687 Mt. Irvine Beach Facility, Black Rock, Tobago, West Indies anchorbarandgrill.tobago@gmail.com

$$$

Tobago’s #1 beachfront restaurant and bar, with a breathtaking food and cocktail menu to choose from. Anchor Bar and Grill gives each customer the opportunity to experience a taste of paradise while enjoying the amazing sunset. Come try some of our signature cocktails, each of which cocktail is named after a significant tourist attraction on our island, one being the reef pack or Nylon Pool.

Free Wi-Fi, great customer service; we also cater to small intimate dinners such as birthdays and anniversaries.

sample menu Anchor Burger Pine & Ginger Pork Sweet & Sour Chicken Chicken Tenders Grilled/Fried Chicken Sandwich Anchor Deep Net platter Sides Parsley Potatoes Potato Salad Macaroni Salad

opening hours Daily: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

$

Kariwak Village Restaurant

Tropikist Hotel Restaurants

(868) 639-8442 Store Bay Local Road, Crown Point, Tobago info@kariwak.com www.kariwak.com

(868) 639-8512/8513 Store Bay Road, Crown Point, Tobago tropikistbeachhotelresort@gmail.com tropikist.com

Opened in 1982, Kariwak is a cosy green oasis of a hotel with an absolutely fantastic restaurant known for its creative use of herbs straight from the on-site garden.

Everything is freshly prepared from scratch, from the rum punch bursting with fresh lime and passion fruit to the rosemary garlic focaccia served at the weekend buffet dinners. Breakfast is a delight of local fruit, homemade yogurt, Tobago cocoa and traditional hot breakfast favourites. Kariwak’s lunch and dinner menus are set daily based on what is freshly available, with salads and sandwiches also served throughout the day.

Live jazz on Friday and Saturday nights.

sample menu

$$

Z’s Grill Shack

At Tropikist, enjoy your dining experience at any of our two restaurants; Bayside Restaurant and Sunset Restaurant, Bar & Grill. Perfectly located with the most breathtaking view of the ocean, which adds to the already amazing ambiance when dining. Choose from our delectable buffet breakfast or from our à la carte lunch and dinner menus. We offer a range of both local and foreign foods, drinks and cocktails, deliciously created with our unique tastes and flavours. Barbeque nights are a must to experience, as our Chefs’ scrumptous dishes are done to perfection. Come join us, let us serve you;exceptional service guaranteed.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Pumpkin soup with fresh dill Garden greens with roasted sunflower seeds Fresh fish poached in a coconut herb sauce Homemade peppermint ice cream Kariwak spice tea (ginger, bayleaf & cinnamon)

sample menu

opening hours

opening hours

Breakfast: 7:30 am – 10:00 am Lunch: 12:30 pm – 2.30 pm Dinner: 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Breakfast: 7:30 am – 10:00 am Lunch: Noon – 3:00 pm Dinner: 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm Bar hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

$$

Pan Seared Cajun Spiced Mahi Mahi Tropikist Home Styled Chicken/Beef Burgers Crispy spiced chicken sandwiches Vegetable wraps (House Special)

(868) 362-2605 Pleasant Prospect, Black Rock, Tobago, W.I. zsgrillshack.tt@gmail.com Come and enjoy a lovely lunch or dinner at Z’s Grill Shack. Our exquisite wooden design sets the perfect ambience for hanging out with friends and family. Our meats are always well prepared and perfectly done, served with our delicious sides. We always offer great service, well timed delivery of food with smiles and good chats. Our prices are always reasonable for dinner or lunch services. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to eat in or taking away, be sure to visit Z’s Grill Shack.

sample menu

$

Meats: Grilled Steak | Lamb Grilled Chicken BBQ Style Grilled Jumbo Shrimp | Snapper Grilled Catch of the day | Lobster Sides: Mixed rice, red beans, potato salad, fresh salad Dessert: Locally made ice creams

opening hours Mon: – Fri: Noon – till Sat: 2:00 pm – till Sun: Closed

RESTAURANTS 175

INS &

INS & OUTS

Fast Facts on Trinidad & Tobago Located at the gateway to the Caribbean, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is renowned for its industrialised, energy export-driven economy; vibrant culture, and multiethnic society. T&T is a leading regional economy with a population of 1.3 million. It has an international presence in the oil and gas-based energy industry, and profitable and productive manufacturing and services sectors. T&T is also pursuing a policy of economic diversification and is investing in several other sectors.

Geography and Location Trinidad – Once part of the South American mainland, Trinidad is situated 12 km (7 miles) northeast of the coast of Venezuela, and is separated from it by the Gulf of Paria. Trinidad has three mountain ranges: the Northern Range, the Central Range and the Southern Range. The highest point, El Cerro del Aripo, is 940 metres (3,084 ft) above sea level. About 40% of all land is undeveloped forest and woodlands, although the island is experiencing rapid development. Trinidad’s Pitch Lake is the largest natural reservoir of asphalt.

Time Zone Greenwich Mean Time: Minus four hours In US Winter: Eastern Standard Time plus one hour (EST +1) In US Summer: Eastern Standard Time (EST) There is no daylight savings time.

Total Area: 4,828 sq km (1,864 sq miles) 81.25 km long by 57-73 km wide (50 miles by 35-45 miles) Location: Latitude 10.5° N Longitude 61.5° W

Executive power, however, is vested in the Prime Minister and Government following elections every five years. The local government body in Tobago is the Tobago House of Assembly and its seat is in the capital city, Scarborough.

Tobago – Tobago lies 34 km (21 miles) northeast of Trinidad. Of volcanic origin, the island is a single mountain mass, although the southwest is flat or undulating and coralline. The highest peak, the Main Ridge, reaches an elevation of about 576 metres (1,890 ft). The coastline is broken by inlets and sheltered beaches, and there are several uninhabited islets.

Total Area: 300 sq km (116 sq miles) Location: Latitude 11.5° N Longitude 60.5° W Climate Trinidad and Tobago has a tropical climate. Daytime temperatures average 31°C (87°F) and are moderated by the northeast trade winds, while nights are a cool 21°C (69°F). The islands have two distinct seasons: dry, from January to May, and wet, from June to December.

There is a short dry period around midSeptember called Petit Carême. Trinidad and Tobago are just outside the usual path of hurricanes and other tropical storms, but Tobago can experience inclement weather as a result of such weather systems.

Government Trinidad and Tobago’s government is a parliamentary democracy. The head of state is the President, who is elected by an Electoral College of members of the Senate and House of Representatives for a five-year term.

Head of State: President Paula-Mae Weekes, Head of Government: Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Christopher Rowley.

Leader of the Tobago House of Assembly: Chief Secretary, The Honourable Kelvin Charles. http://www.ttconnect.gov.tt/gortt/portal/ ttconnect https://www.otp.tt; http://www.opm.gov.tt/ http://www.tha.gov.tt/

Photo: Stephen Broadbridge

176 FAST FACTS ON TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Banking Number of Commercial Banks: 8 Prime Lending Rate: 9.0% (October 2017 estimate) Bank Hours of Operation: City Centres – Monday to Thursday – 8:00 am to 2:00 pm Friday – 8:00 am to 1:00 pm & 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm RBC and Scotiabank (not mall branches) 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

8 RBC Branches open on Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Bank Hours of Operation: Shopping Centres – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Exchange Rate: TTD 6.74: USD 1 (October 2017) Meeting Places and Conference Centres Trinidad and Tobago is one of the top five Caribbean meeting and conference destinations. T&T is host to over 84,000 business travellers annually.

Business Hours Offices: Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Government Offices: Monday to Friday – 8:00 am to 4:00 pm (City Centres): Monday to Friday – 8:00 am to 4:30 pm; Saturday – 8:00 am to 1:00 pm Retail (Shopping Centres): Monday to Saturday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Photo: Stephen Broadbridge

Telecommunications International Access and Area Code: 1-868 Trinidad and Tobago’s telecommunications sector has shown strong growth. TSTT provides both landline and mobile telephone services, Digicel home phone and mobile telephone services and FLOW landline services. International direct distance dialing is available nationwide. With broad coverage throughout the islands, mobile phones are an easy option.

Wireless Internet services are readily available at hotels and cybercafés. https://tatt.org.tt/

Antigua, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana and Suriname. International and regional airlines that fly to Trinidad and Tobago include American Airlines, British Airways, Caribbean Airlines, United Airlines, West Jet, JetBlue, LIAT and several charter flight companies.

International flights are also available direct from Tobago’s ANR Robinson International Airport. Airlines that fly directly to Tobago include British Airways, Condor and Monarch. http://www.tntairports.com/

Immigration, Work Permits and Visas Visitors to Trinidad and Tobago must possess valid passports and return or ongoing tickets for successful entry.

Most Commonwealth countries do not require visas for entry, except Australia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Cameroon, Fiji Islands, Mozambique, Uganda and South Africa. For business travel and vacations lasting 90 days or less (within a 180-day period) European Union citizens do not need visas for entry. The same applies for nationals from non- European Union Schengen countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland). Holders of CARICOM passports, with the exception of Haiti, do not require visas. Visitors from several other countries are allowed to enter Trinidad and Tobago for periods of up to three months without a visa. http://www.immigration.gov.tt/

Piarco Airport American Airlines Caribbean Airlines British Airways Copa Airlines LIAT Surinam Airways United Airlines West Jet Airlines

JetBlue Rutaca

Work permits are required for business stays beyond 30 days. Visa extensions can be obtained from the Immigration Office at 67 Frederick Street, Port of Spain, while work permits can be obtained from the Ministry of National Security, Temple Court II, 52-60 Abercromby Street, Port of Spain. www.nationalsecurity.gov.tt Transportation Airports – Piarco International Airport is located about 45 minutes from the capital city, Port of Spain. It plays an important role as a vital hub for international air traffic in the Caribbean.

There are non-stop daily scheduled flights to and from major international cities.

Trinidad and Tobago’s national airline, Caribbean Airlines, serves Toronto, New York, Miami, Jamaica, Saint Maarten,

Major Airlines 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

(868) 821-6000 (868) 625-7200 (800) 247-9297 (868) 669-5189 (800) 669-2982 (868) 627-0102 (800) 864-8331 (888) 937-8538 (888) WESTJET (800) 538-2583 (868) 625-4324

connects Port of Spain and San Fernando. Scheduled sailing times are Monday to Friday. Tickets cost TT$15 one-way and can be purchased at the Water Taxi Terminal located at Flat Rock, Lady Hailes Avenue, San Fernando or the Cruise Ship Complex, Port of Spain. Free parking is available at both ports. There is a Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) shuttle service, which costs TT$3 through the city of Port of Spain. For further information, visit: www.nidco.co.tt or call 624-3281/ 674-5593 (POS) or 8004WTS (San Fernando).

Public Utilities Electricity Trinidad and Tobago has a reliable supply of electricity with rates still among the lowest in the Caribbean.

The domestic and commercial supply voltage is 110/220 volts, 60 cycles. The Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) is the agencyresponsible for the country’s electrical supply. http://www.ttec.co.tt/

ANR Robinson Airport 1 (800) 744-7477 Virgin Atlantic Condor and Thomas Cook Group Airlines 1 (868) 639-5201 1 (800) 247-9297 British Airways.

Water The Water and Sewerage Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (WASA), a state enterprise, is the sole provider of water and wastewater services in Trinidad and Tobago. http://www.wasa.gov.tt/

The following airlines/flights are sometimes scheduled to operate during peak periods.

Air Canada Rouge 1 (868) 623-2721 laser.com.ve LASER Airlines fly-inselair.com INSEL Air Conviasa Airlines 1 (868) 627-8172/6078

Post/Courier Services Regular mail, express mail and courier delivery are reliable and available from local provider TTPost at excellent rates. International courier services are efficient and readily available. http://www.ttpost.net/

Seaports The main seaports are located in Port of Spain and Point Lisas. The Port of Port of Spain handles dry and general cargo, break bulk, containers and passenger traffic. The Point Lisas Industrial Port Development Corporation Ltd. (PLIPDECO), mainly a bulk port for industrial commerce, also handles container and general cargo traffic.

There are ferries travelling the interisland route daily.

Port of Spain Ferry: (868) 625-3055 Tobago Ferry: (868) 639-2417 The CARICOM Jetty, which is located at the Port of Port of Spain and operates the passenger inter-island ferry, receives, stores and delivers CARICOM cargo and multipurpose containers for trade within the Caribbean region. A water taxi ferry

Emergency Contacts Police/Rapid Response: 999 Fire: 990 Ambulance: 811 Global Medical Response: 653-4343 Coast Guard: 634-4440 The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM): 800-ODPM (6376) - Trinidad: 640-1285/8905, 640-8653; 640-6493 - Tobago: 660-7489 Port of Spain General Hospital: 623-2951 San Fernando General Hospital: 652-3581 Scarborough General Hospital: 660-4SGH (4744) Roxborough Health Centre and Hyperbaric Facility, Tobago: 660-4392

FAST FACTS ON TRINIDAD & TOBAGO 177

INS &

INS & OUTS

Index 519 Restaurant & Bar.......................................... 126

Himchuli Restaurant.............................................127

RoSemary Hadeed....................................................2

Acajou Hotel................................................84 & 124

Homework Design Studio............... 74, 75 & 76

Royal Hotel..................................................... 86 & 87

Adam's Bagels & Speciality Breads............. 116

Hyatt Regency Trinidad..........84, 85, 46 & 112

Salaka Grill Ocean

Amazing Properties...............................................91

Inna Citi Place Bed & Breakfast.......................91

Anchor Bar & Grill.................................................174

Ins & Outs of

Front and Pool Restaurant.......................... 173 Salt N' Pepper Classical Indian Cuisine...... 114

Angostura............................................104, 105 & 53

Trinidad & Tobago........... Inside Front Cover

SeaJade Investments..........................................149

Angostura Museum...............................................53

Irie Bites..................................................................... 123

Samurai Sushi Bar & Steakhouse......116 & 117

Annie's Mandarine Restaurant & Lounge.122

Island Beer Chill & Grill.................... ……..116 & 117

Shades Designs Ltd...............................................75

Aqua Restaurant....................................................172

Island Experiences.................................................57

Signature Selection...............................................37

Art de Joulie..............................................................41

Jackie Hinkson.........................................................42

Smokey Joe's.......................................................... 123

Asa Wright Nature Centre.................................57

Jaxx International Grill ……......................114 & 115

Soong's Great Wall............................……..118 & 119

Batch Caribbean Limited...................................38

Johnston Apartments........................................ 168

Spa Esencia.............................................................. 46

Beacon.........................................................................63

Kali'na Restaurant................................................. 173

Stand Up Paddle................................................... 147

Blue Waters Inn...............................164, 165 & 172

Kapok Hotel................................................. 88 & 120

Sundeck Suites....................................................... 90

Burger King...............................................................121

Kariwak Village Hotel............................ 169 & 175

Sunspree Resort Ltd...........................................166

Café Coco..................................................................172

Kariwak Village Restaurant..............................175

Surf Side Hotel....................................................... 168

Caffe del Mar...........................................................127

KAVA...........................................................................120

Taryn's The Panyol Place.................................. 122

Capil's and Co. Ltd.................................................37

Kyawana Shaw-Abraham......................................2

Texas de Brazil.............................................114 & 115

Cara Suites Hotel &

Le Grand Almandier............................................. 90

The Angostura Barcant

Conference Centre................................ 86 & 87

La Petit Fleur Tea Shop..................................... 125

& Butterfly Collection.......................................53

Caribbean Discovery Tours Ltd.......................57

Light House Restaurant.....................................127

The Bungalow Restaurant & Lounge......... 126

Caribbean Estates, Land & Villas..................149

Lime Inn Restaurant............................................ 124

The Cannons Hotels............................................. 90

Cazabon Wine & Cocktail Bar.......................... 17

Little Caesars Pizza...............................................121

The Centro Restaurant...................................... 126

Centro Restaurant................................................ 126

Look Opticians.........................................................37

The Courtyard by Marriott........... 78, 110 & 126

Chaquacabana Resort & Beach Club............91

Luvinia’s Seafood & Steak Restaurant........174

The Dreamy Creamy

CHAUD........................................................................ 119

Luxury Finishes Design Centre.......................75

Coco Reef Resort and Spa ................167 & 172

Magdalena Grand Beach

Ice Cream Company........................................ 118 The Face and Body Clinic Limited................47

Courtin.........................................................................47

& Golf Resort..................................... 1, 164 & 173

Courtyard By Marriott.....................88, 89 & 126

Malabar Meats Gourmet.....................................38

Crews Inn Hotel and

Mi Casa Fine Home Furnishings...................... 17

Trinidad & Tobago (NGC)..................98 & 99

Yachting Centre..................................... 88 & 127

Miller's Guest House............................................164

The Normandie Hotel...........................................89

Crown Point Beach Hotel....................166 & 169

More Sushi..................................................................112

The Pasta Gallery...................................................172

Dachin Group of Companies............ 13, 101, 151

More Vino...................................................................112

The Seahorse Inn Restaurant & Bar.............174

Ducky’s Ortoire Organic

Morsels....................................................................... 125

THINKARTWORKTT Studio...............................41

Roast Seafood (DOORS)............................. 123

Morsheads Gourmet Foods..............................151

Tiki Village................................................................120

Dufry.............................................................................37

MovieTowne............................................... 13, 101, 151

Tile Warehouse........................................................75

Econo Car Rentals Ltd.........................................67

MovieTowne Tobago.............................................151

Tobago Tourism Agency Limited................. 128

El Pecos Grill..............................................................81

Nichossa Restaurant........................................... 124

Tomley Roberts........................................................41

Excellent Stores.......................................................39

Nova Lighting...........................................................75

Tourism Trinidad Ltd...........Inside Back Cover,

FarmaVita...................................................................47

Par-May-La's Inn.................................................... 90

Map

FENS – Furniture Land South & Central....39

Parts World Limited..............................................75

Tradewinds Hotel & Conference Centre.... 84

Fernandes Fine Wines.......................................... 17

Pembois Restaurant & Terrace...................... 173

Fiesta Plaza.....................................................101 & 13

Peter Sheppard....................................................... 40

Trinidad and Tobago Tourist Transport

Finesse Yacht Charters........................................57

Petit Point Cottage ............................................ 168

Service Association (T&TTTSA)..................67

First Citizens..................................................78 & 79

Planet Ceramic........................................... 150 & 151

Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort Ltd.169 & 175

Five Islands Water & Amusement Park....103

Plantation Beach Villas......................... 166 & 167

Tropikist Hotel Restaurants..............................175

Flavours Restaurant............................................ 124

Popeyes Restaurant..............................................121

TT RideShare............................................................67

GCG Events................................................................81

R.T. Morshead Ltd...................................................151

Villas Are Us Ltd...................................................149

Germaine De Capuccini......................................47

Randall Waddell................................... 74, 75 & 76

Vintage Imports Wine Merchants..........34, 36

Glamorgan Events...................................................81

Regent Star Hotel......................................... 89, 124

VIP Platinum Cinema & Lounge..............101, 13

Golden Palace Chinese Restaurant............. 125

Republic Bank Limited (RBL)...............72 & 73

Waterfront Restaurant.........................................112

Hakka Restaurant & Bar..........................118 & 119

Residence at Tradewinds....................... Outside

WHIPPED.................................................................. 122

Healing with Horses Foundation ................. 141

Back Cover

The House of Angostura.......................... 53, 105 The National Gas Company of

& Outside Back Cover

Z's Grill Shack..........................................................175

Herbs & Spices.......................................................120

Restaurant Holdings..............................................121

Zip-Itt Adventure Tours.......................................59

Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre...........86

Rizzoni's Ristorante Italiano.................. 112 & 113

ZM Executive Transport......................................67

178 INDEX