VOX POP

WITH NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL 2020 TAKEN OFF THE ROAD, WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND? AND WHAT WILL YOU MISS THE MOST?

Jahan Masquerader North London

As a masquerader, my spirit is restless and meh foot hot. Ah have real tabanca. The spirit of carnival is missing this year, and my heart aches. The freedom of owning the road, dancing in the streets to the sweet sounds of soca on the music trucks, drinking rum and winin’ wit meh family, friends and dem whole day, unity and community spirit... people of all nationalities coming together to enjoy the Caribbean island experience of fabulous costumes, steelbands, reggae and house sound systems, food and drinks. I know there will be many private parties taking place this Bank Holiday weekend, and I will definitely be looking to party somewhere. As the song goes, “Once ah Trini reach in de fete is niceness”.

Natasha Olibert Masquerader @Likefinewine36 I don't have any solid plans for the August Bank Holiday weekend yet, although I know of a few activities happening then. It's difficult to make a decision right now, but whatever I decide to do will most definitely be some sort of tribute to a carnival lost.

I will miss the sweet sounds of soca and the absolute freedom of dutty mas on Sunday. As much as I love having my makeup done and getting dressed up in feathers and gems on Monday, dutty mas is the day that I can be unapologetically myself, surrounded by like-minded people, in full celebration of our culture. No discrimination; all in! Farrah Grant Miss Caribbean UK Finalist

The cancellation of Notting Hill Carnival was a sad one for me, as it's a time where I get to fully embrace my Caribbean culture and be surrounded by people who are not only embracing their culture but people who enjoy the Caribbean culture, music, dance and pretty costumes. Notting Hill Carnival is a time where everyone is in unison, it’s like all the problems in the world are gone for that weekend as we fete and party, and it’s honestly a lovely aura/ energy to be around. I think that will be what I miss the most about Notting Hill Carnival this year. Whilst the big carnival isn’t happening, I will definitely be having my own carnival in my garden with my family over the Bank Holiday weekend; Carnival must go on!

TRAVEL SAINT LUCIA

She is Saint Lucia

COME AND REFRESH YOUR MIND BODY AND SOUL IN A NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL ENVIRONMENT FOR A HOLIDAY TO REMEMBER

Saint Lucia is beautiful in so many ways. Her scenery is breathtaking - from the iconic Piton Mountains, lush rainforests and palm-fringed beaches to beautiful bays and stunning waterfalls. Her people are her pride and joy, renowned for their warm and friendly natures.

Her culture is rich and varied, offering unique experiences found nowhere else in the Caribbean. As for her food; get ready for your taste buds to explode with flavour. Talented chefs combine fresh, local ingredients with seasoning and spices influenced by Saint Lucia’s diverse cultural heritage to create mouthwatering dishes. Many of the restaurants on island offer spectacular views, which help to add to the memorable dining experience.

When looking for a place to stay there are so many great options to choose from, whether you're travelling solo, with friends and family or a partner. Opt for a boutique hotel, an all-inclusive resort, a spacious villa or perhaps a small guest house, self-catering apartment or luxurious resort; there is something to suit all tastes and budgets.

With an array of activities including chocolate making, rum and wine tasting, Creole cooking classes to zip-lining through the rainforest, boat tours, paddle-boarding, hiking and Segway tours plus many more, you are spoilt for choice.

Saint Lucia is home to a wide variety of natural attractions. Dip into the mud baths at the Sulphur Springs; meander along rainforest trails; marvel at the beautiful flowers of Diamond Botanical Gardens or hike up the Tet Paul Nature Trail for stunning views of the Petit Piton Mountain.

She is Saint Lucia. Let Her Inspire You.

Visit stlucia.org for more information.