IMAGINE

Imagine a lush rainforest, beautiful beaches and Tobago's finest ocean front resort.
Imagine diving in some of the world's most beautiful reefs.
Imagine spacious rooms with private balconies and terraces.
Imagine a choice of three different pools.
Imagine multiple restaurants with a variety of local and international cuisine.
Imagine a spa, fitness centre, tennis courts, bike paths and an 18-hole championship golf course.

You don't hove to imogine it. Experience it ot Mogdoleno Grand.

MAGDALENA GRAND
BEACH & GOLF RESORT
TOBAGO W.I.

Tobago Plantations Estate, lowlands, Tobago, Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies • Phone: 868-{,60-8500 • inlo@MagdalenaCrand.com

www.MAGDALENAGRAND.COM
 TRINIDAD COVER ARTIST

SARAH BECKETT
Educated in
France at the
Université
d’Angers, Ecole
des Beaux Arts
Fontainebleau,

welcome
artist-poet
Sarah Beckett
has exhibited
extensively in
the Caribbean,
the UK, Holland,
Italy, the Far East and the USA. A former Board
Member of the Art Society of Trinidad and
Tobago, her work has been displayed on the

T r in i
to d Tobagoda d Oval Walls & The Hyatt Waterfront as part
of The Art Society of Trinidad and Tobago’s
initiative, "Taking Art onto the Street." She also
represented Trinidad in the Carifesta exhibition

an
in 2007 & the Cocoa Cola exhibition in Atlanta,
USA. For many years, Beckett helped raise
funds for The Cotton Tree Foundation through
the sale of her paintings, and designed a
Creative Outreach Programme for the Cotton
The Recommended In-Room Tree Foundation NGO which won the Soca
BPTT 2006 Award. Her works of art can be
Guide of The Trinidad Hotels, seen in corporate offices and homes in
Restaurants & Tourism Trinidad and Tobago. In 2017, Beckett was
commissioned by Hyatt to create a custom
Association and the Tobago painting for the refurbished Presidential Suite.

Hotel and Tourism Association.

The Ins & Outs is widely distributed locally to visitors through hotel rooms, TOBAGO COVER ARTIST
villas, guesthouses and restaurants. It reaches residents through select
merchants, conferences, seminars and business organisations. T&T’s overseas MARTIN SUPERVILLE
diplomatic missions and World Travel Market form part of the international Painter,
distribution. Download the FREE Ins & Outs APP with extensive listings of curator and
restaurants, accommodation and entertainment in Trinidad and Tobago. art dealer
See what’s on with our Calendar of Events, learn/read about our carnival, Martin
sports and festivals for 2018 along with touring information. Superville
knew he had
a passion
PROJECT CO-ORDINATORS LAYOUT for fine art
Patricia Lewis Shayam Karim and began
Soraya Gonsalves Patricia Lewis Soraya Gonsalves painting at
ADVERTISING SALES DESIGN just eight
Patricia Lewis Marie Gurley Tao Howard - Miller Publishing years-old. A
Betti Gillezeau Kathleen Maynard few years after graduating from St George's
PRODUCTION
Evy Parkinson College, Barataria, he began painting
Patrice Letren
professionally and today he has become
EDITOR PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS well-known for iconic portraits in oils as well
Anna Walcott-Hardy Nichele West-Broome as other media. His works often feature
PROOF READER Vanessa Ramtahal engaging, dynamic local scenes - a game of
Cheryl-Ann Phillips-Gonzales cricket, dancing sailors in Carnival costumes
and Belé dancers in elegant madras skirts.
PUBLISHED BY Many of these signature works are part
Caribbean Tourism Publications Ltd. of local and international private as well
The Film Centre as public collections. Having exhibited in
#9 Humphrey Street, St. James Trinidad, Washington D.C. and the Bahamas,
Trinidad and Tobago Superville moved to Tobago where he
Tel: (868) 622-0738/9 Fax: (868) 622-0426 manages The Art Gallery and also hosts
E-mail: info@insandoutstt.com seminars and workshops for young artists.
Facebook: Ins & Outs of Trinidad & Tobago Website: www.insandoutstt.com

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 © 2018 Caribbean Tourism Publications. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

2 Contents
22 At a Glance
TRINIDAD

6-128
6 Feature
10 T&T Calendar
20 Festivals
22 The Cure of Carnival
30 Multi-cultural Festivals

36 Retail Therapy
54 Revive and Restore
58 Get Out and About
60 Sights
70 Escapades
72 Beach More, Worry Less
74 Waterfalls Galore

76 Stay A While
84 Be Entertained
96 Special Events

98 Sports
106 Good Food, Good Mood
184 Hotels & Guesthouses

60
140
155

142 TOBAGO
At a Glance
130-185
130 Festivals
132 Heritage Festival
135 Tobago Festivals

136 Get Out and About

138 Sightseeing
140 Beach More, Worry Less

144 Retail Therapy

148 Investing in the Good Life
150 Limin’ Tobago Style
152 Tobago Jazz Experience
155 Tobago Fashion Week

158 Sports
161 Fun in the Water
162 Stay A While
174 Good Food, Good Mood
182 Hotels & Guesthouses
185 Fast Facts

174
W alking with Giants By Anna
Walcott-Hardy

In the land of Kairi (Trinidad) and Urupaina (Tobago), as our Republic

islands were originally called by the indigenous people, before being
claimed by Columbus for the Spanish in 1498, “yuh can’t play mas’
and ‘fraid powder”. This simply means that to truly understand the
place you have to jump in with both feet, and you won’t regret it. You
need to taste the fusion of cultures in our local delicacies, marvel
at the mix of faiths in our festivals, explore rain forest and swamps
in Trinidad and discover coral reefs and crystal clear, nylon pools in
Tobago. Living on an island can be both liberating and solitary; add
a mix of people from across the world with an indomitable spirit to
survive and overcome a challenging past, to create a new identity,
and you have the makings of a new world Babel, a special place rich
in culture and diversity.

6 Feature
 Throughout the
capital you will
find forts, churches
and homes built in
varied architectural
styles that mirror
the history of the
islands. A good
place to start is the
Magnificent Seven
around the Queen’s
Park Savannah.

Rosary R.C. Church

Photo: Maria Nunes

History Lessons
In south Trinidad, you will find the oldest pre-
Columbian archaeological site in the West Indies
at Banwari Trace. This burial site was unearthed by
Peter Harris and members of the Historical Society in
Bunji Garlin and Machel Montano
the 1960s. You can visit the Zoological Museum at The Photo: Edison Boodoosingh
University of the West Indies, St Augustine, to view the 5,000
year old remains of the Banwari skeleton and other artefacts
which have been housed at the Department of Life Sciences since 1978.
In 2017, the First Peoples were celebrated nationwide and a commitment
to revisit and document their historical importance to the region and
the world, was made by the government. Although the population was
devastated by the torturous treatment from the Spanish settlers, their
descendants continue to enrich many communities.
Throughout the capital you will find forts, churches and homes built in
varied architectural styles that mirror the history of the islands. A good
place to start is the Magnificent Seven around the Queen’s Park Savannah.
There are also many history books, novels and poems by award-winning,
critically acclaimed Trinidadian artists that address local and universal
tropes, authors including CLR James, Bridget Brereton, Sharon Millar,
Barbara Jenkins and Earl Lovelace - are brilliant buys.

Feature 7
Sugar and Spice
Our unique Trinitario cocoa beans are
renowned for their rich flavor and like fine
wines, the taste varies from estate to estate
dependent on soil, climate and flora to name a
few influencers. And we all know of the health
benefits of dark chocolate, so make sure to
tour some of the estates from the organic 15-
acre Brasso Seco plantation to the 250- acre
San Antonio Cocoa Estate, to name just a few,
or enjoy a tasting tour in Tobago, and get an
opportunity to walk through the groves where
the pods are grown and harvested, understand
the process and see the beans dried, roasted
and shelled, and even taste the nibs or
divine chocolate bars. Some chocolatiers
have selections where the chocolate bars are
combined with scorpion peppers or guava,
even rum. These selections are available at
cafés and supermarkets across the country.
At UWI you can also learn more at the Cocoa
Research Centre with its invaluable gene bank,
enroll in a chocolate-making course and taste
some of the best chocolate in the world.
The Bounty
Touring the nascent beauty of the forests
has to be on your bucket list, and if you’re
lucky, you may see up close, environmentally
sensitive species like the spotted ocelot, a
wild cat native to the Americas, or Red Howler
monkeys swinging between the silk cotton
trees of Nariva Swamp; there are also the
Caiman, and a wide variety of snakes and
butterflies in the rain forests.
Trinidad is celebrated for having so many
species in such a small concentrated area like
Bush Bush Island in the Nariva Swamp, where
there are 32 species of bats and 171 species of
birds, including scarlet macaws. There are also
owls, five species of parrots and anteaters and
the occasional deer if you’re lucky. However,
many of these species are under threat of
extinction as a result of disease outbreaks,
illegal hunting and pesticides, but there have
been attempts to correct these ills and protect
the environment over the years. One highly
successful programme has been the protection
of the hundreds of leatherbacks that travel to
the nesting grounds on beaches on the north
and east coasts of Trinidad including Grande
Rivière and Matelot. A spectacular sight if
you’re lucky enough to see it.
8 Feature
The Inherent Creativity
Trinidad has created the steelpan
and Calypso and Soca music that
have impacted profoundly on world
music. Billboard charts are exploding
with the music of Trinidadian artists
from Nicki Minaj and Major Lazer’s
Jillionaire to Bunji Garlin, Calypso
Rose and Machel Montano who are
making waves at home and abroad;
and on the contemporary jazz scene
Etienne Charles is a master composer
and musician. Few places can
compare with our small population
of just 1.4 million people. In the
field of sports it’s equally inspiring
with world renowned cricketers like
Brian Lara and the Bravo brothers,
footballer Dwight Yorke, Olympic
gold medallists Hasely Crawford
and Keshorn Walcott, and more
recently a winning team at the World
Championship, as well as Paralympic
giant, Akeem Stewart.
Discovery
There are many well-known
reasons why Trinidad and Tobago
is good for you, and many
others that are waiting to
be discovered. So now
it’s your turn to get out
there and make it
happen, create that
once in a lifetime
experience –
dance to steelpan
until the sunrise,
take a yoga
class in the lush
Savannah, sing
with paranderos
in Paramin, watch
hatchling leather
backs make their way
to the ocean, light deyas
at Divali, or just relax on the
beach with a cold beer and a
delicious shark and bake. Whatever
your choice, you will treasure your
discoveries in the Caribbean and
maybe find something new about
yourself as well.
Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool
Photo: Jason Sookermany
Inset: Stollmeyer’s Castle
Photo: Video Aerial & Ground Solutions

Feature 9
calendar
2018
January
1 New Year’s Day (Public
Holiday)
1 Soca in Moka 19 Fête
All Inclusive, Trinity
College’s Annual Carnival
All-Inclusive Fête, Trinity
Courts, Moka, Maraval,
4 pm to 11 pm, 755-1637
www.socainmoka.org
1 Tobago Love ‘The
Xperience’, Tropikist
Beach Hotel, Old Store
Bay Road, Crown Point,
Tobago, 3 pm to 10 pm,
744-5683,
www.shurwayne.com
1 ‘Start D Carnival’, TUCO
Annual Cooler Fête
Welfare Fundraiser, Grand
Stand, Courtyard, Queen’s
Park Savannah, POS, 4 pm
www.tucott.com
2-6 I love Soca Series
Feb Pre carnival musical event
11 pm to 3 am www.cicpsu.org
Barcode Sports Bar and
Grill, Scarborough, Tobago 20 ‘Battle of the Sexes’,
635-2633
8-19 Invicta Exhibit Series
featuring Hasely Crawford
sponored by NGC,
Nalis Library, Couva,
623-9673 / 624-1130,
www.nalis.gov.tt
6 ‘Tribe Ice’
10 pm - 5 am
www.carnivaltribe.com
10 Trinidad & Tobago Calendar
Inset: First
Massy All Stars
Citizens Supernova
Photos: Maria Nunes
6 Soca under the Samaan
Tree, Pre carnival event,
Tambrin Square, Tobago Stadium Training Grounds,
639-3437
13 ‘Chutney Soca Monarch’
Semi-Final, 8 pm,
653-2908,
www.southex.co.tt
13 Red Ants & QPCC Stumped
Queen’s Park Oval Car Park
9 pm - 4 am
14 ‘Carnival – The Sound of
a People’, Etienne Charles’
Production, Queen’s
Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
St. Ann's, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
14 National Single Pan
Finals, Arima Basketball
Court, Arima, 4 pm,
623-4486,
www.pantrinbago.co.tt
20 ‘Fête with the Saints’
All-Inclusive Fête, CIC
Grounds, St James, 6 pm
to 12 midnight, 624-8468,
Jean Pierre Complex, POS,
Spectakula Promotions,
628-8700
20 ‘Ronnie & Friends All-
Inclusive Carnival Party’,
155 Southern Main Road,
Couva,
8 pm to 2 am, 225-4828,
www.venturecu.com
21 ‘Nikkiland’ The Children’s All
Inclusive, Hasely Crawford
1 pm to 5 pm
21 ‘Yorke Inc. Annual Carnival’
All Inclusive, Trinity College
East, 5 pm to midnight,
776-1032
21 Bethesda Church Harvest
9 am Plymouth, Tobago
22-24 The T&T Energy Conference
2018, Hyatt Regency Trinidad,
POS 6-ENERGY, www.
ttenergyconference.org
26 15th Annual ‘Ladies Night
Out’, Randy Glasgow
Productions, Hasely Crawford
Stadium, POS, 9 pm,
628-9158, www.randyglasgow
productions.info
27 ‘Chutney Soca Monarch’
Final, Skinner Park, San
Fernando, 9 pm, 653-2908,
www.southex.co.tt
27 ‘Central Bank All Inclusive’,
Eric Williams Plaza, POS,
7 pm to 2 am, 678-6817,
tickets@central-bank.org.tt
27 Old Hilarians ‘Bishop Anstey
All-Inclusive Fête’, Bishop
Anstey High School Grounds,
POS, 4 pm, 625-5844,
bishopsfete@gmail.com
27 National Panorama Semi-
Finals – Small Bands,
Chaguanas, 623-4486,
www.pantribago.co.tt
27 QRC All-Inclusive,
Queen’s Royal College,
St Clair, 5 pm to 12 am,
622-1671, www.qrc.edu
28 National Panorama
Semi Finals – Medium
& Large Bands, Queen’s
Park Savannah, POS,
1 pm, 623-4486,
www.pantribago.co.tt
28 Bishop’s Tobago All
Inclusive - ‘BTAI 2018
Rendez-vous’
5 pm- 12:00 midnight
Bishop’s High School
Grounds, 683-1184
29 National Calypso
Queen’s Competition,
National Women’s Action
Committee, Queen’s Hall,
1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
St. Ann's, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
29 National Extempo
Preliminary, TUCO,
Queen’s Park Savannah,
7:30 pm, 627-7876,
www.tucott.com
31 ‘Take 2, The Concert:
Afro Calypso & Latin
Jazz Fusion - Journey to
Brazil’,
Jazz Alliance of T&T,
Queen’s Hall, POS, 8 pm,
www.queenshalltt.com
February
2 THA Pan Champ Finals,
Dwight Yorke Stadium
Parade Ground, 7 pm paninclusive@gmail.com
Tobago
2 Army Fête, "Safest Fête
in Carnival", Queen’s Park
Savannah
3 ‘Calypso Fiesta’ TUCO
National Calypso Monarch
Semi-Final, Skinner Park,
San Fernando, 12 noon,
627-7876, www.tucott.com
3 ‘Red Cross Kiddies
Carnival’, Queen’s Park
Savannah, 2 pm
www.ncbatt.com
3 ‘1st Chutney Soca Queen
Competition Finals’
and ‘Chutney Brass
Festival’ Randy Glasgow
Productions, Guaracara
Park, San Fernando,
7:30 pm, 628-9158,
www.randy glasgow
productions.info
3 ‘Chutney Brass
Festival’, Randy Glasgow
Productions, Guaracara
Park, San Fernando, 10 pm,
628-9158,
www.randyglasgow
productions.info
3 Fatima All Inclusive Fête,
Fatima College, Mucurapo
Road, St. James
5 pm to 12 am, 628-4735
3 Red Ants & Blue Range
Assocation Blue Flame All
Inclusive, Blue Range Park
9 pm to 3 am
www.carnivaltribe.com
4 National Junior Panorama
Finals, Queen’s Park
Savannah, POS, 9 am,
623-4486
www.pantribago.co.tt
4 Arima Panorama, Princess
Royal Basket Ball Court,
Arima, 7 pm, 623-4486,
www.pantribago.co.tt
4 Tobago House of
Assembly (THA) Pan
Champs Finals, Dwight
Yorke Stadium,
7 pm, 623-4486,
www.pantribago.co.tt
4 ‘Oneness The Party’,
St. Ann's RC Church
Production, Queen’s Hall,
1-3 St. Ann’s Road, St. Ann's,
POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
12 Trinidad & Tobago Calendar
4 ‘Pan Inclusive’, Government
Campus Auditorium,
Richmond Street, POS,
4 pm to 11 pm, 718-0175,
4 St. Georges Anglican
Church Harvest, 9 am,
Hope Village, 639-2485
5 ‘Machel Monday’,
Hasely Crawford Stadium,
POS, 6 pm,
www.machelmontano.com
5 National Junior Calypso
Monarch Final, Grand Stand,
Queen’s Park Savannah,
10 am, 627-7876,
www.tucott.com
6 ‘Tuesday on the Rocks’,
Kes in Concert, O2 Park,
Chaguaramas, 622-5616,
6 pm, www.kestheband.com
6 ‘Rapso Explosion’,
TUCO 20th Edition, NALIS
Amphitheatre, POS,
5:30 pm, 627-7876,
www.tucott.com
6 Friends Are Long Lasting
‘Fall Out Fête’, premium all-
inclusive event, La Soledad,
Maracas, St Joseph, 6 pm to
12 am, 766-5078, 685-3255,
www.fallouttnt.com/events
6-10 ‘3 Canal Show’, Queen’s
Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
St. Ann's, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com.
7 8th Annual Hyatt Regency
Trinidad ‘LIME’ All-inclusive
event, Hyatt Regency Trinidad
821-6443/6, 4 pm to 1 am,
www.hyattlime.com
7 ‘Festival of Bacchanal’,
Queen of Bacchannal
(QOB), Destra in Concert
7 Tobago Senior Kings
/ Queens /Individuals
Preliminaries & Finals
8 pm, Scotia Bank Junction
Scarborough
8 ‘Terrific Thursday-
Kaisorama’, TUCO Extempo &
Categories Final, NAPA, POS,
7 pm, 627-7876,
www.tucott.com
8 National Panorama Finals
Small Conventional Bands,
Skinner Park, San Fernando,
7 pm, 623-4486,
www.pantrinbago.co.tt
8 ‘Tribe Ignight’
Moko Jumbie 10 pm - 5 am
Photo: Maria Nunes www.carnivaltribe.com
Inset: MacFarlane Carnival 2017 - Cazabon 9 Blue Range Cooler Fête
Photo: Gary Jordan Blue Range, 10 pm - 4 am

8 Tobago Calypso Monarch
Carnival Competition
8 pm, Shaw Park Complex,
Tobago
9 The International Soca
Monarch ‘Fantastic Friday’,
Hasley Crawford Stadium,
Woodbrook, 9 pm,
298-2003, 286-0192,
www.socamonarch.net
9 Re-enactment of ‘Camboulay
Riot’, Duke Street, POS, 4 am
10 National Panorama Finals
Medium & Large Conventional
Bands, Queen’s Park
Savannah, POS, 7 pm, Pan Mass’ 4 am, all regions,
623-4486,
www.pantrinbago.co.tt
10 Republic Bank ‘Junior
Parade of the Bands’,
Kiddies Carnival, Queen’s Park
Savannah, POS, 7 am,
www.ncbatt.com
10 Tobago Junior Parade of
Bands, 10 am, Scarborough,
Tobago
10 National Panaroma Finals,
Medium & Large Bands,
Queen’s Park Savannah, POS 7 am, www.ncc.co.tt,
7 pm, www.pantrinbago.co.tt
11 ‘Brian Lara All Inclusive Fête’,
Chancellor Hill, Queen’s Park
West, POS
11 ‘Dimanche Gras’, TUCO
National Calypso Monarch
Final, Queen’s Park Savannah,
POS, 7 pm,
www.tucott.com
11 ‘PUMPED’ Ultimate cooler
experience, Price Plaza Car
Park, 8 pm to 2 am,
681-7873, www.
greenhouseevent.com
12 ‘Groovy Soca/ J’ouvert Bomb
Steelpan Competitions &
623-4486,
www.pantrinbago.co.tt
12 ‘J’ouvert’, 4:00 am South
Quay, POS, Chaguanas, Arima,
San Fernando, Scarborough,
www.ncbatt.com
12 Carnival Monday, Parade of
the Bands, Nationwide,
11 am, www.ncc.co.tt,
www.ncbatt.com
13 Carnival Tuesday, Parade of
the Bands, Nationwide,
www.ncbatt.com
Trinidad & Tobago Calendar
13 Pan On The Road, Mas &
Las Lap, all regions, 623-4486,
www.pantrinbago.co.tt
14 Ash Wednesday
15-17 ‘Talk Tent 2018’, Keensdee
Productions, Queen’s Hall,
1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
St. Ann's, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
17 ‘Champs of Steel Plus’,
Queen’s Park Savannah, POS,
7 pm, 623-4486,
www.pantrinbago.co.tt
17 ‘Call to Paradise Pool
Party’, Magdalena Grand
Beach & Golf Resort,
Lowlands, Tobago,
4 pm to 11 pm, 660-8500, 24-25 ‘Wahoo Fishing
www.magdalenagrand.com
17 ‘JAM Nation’ J’ouvert
Breakfast Party and “Blue
Range” All Inclusive
17 ‘Calypso + Comedy
Cooldown 2’, Food & Drinks
Inclusive, NAPA, POS, SAPA, San Fernando,
8 pm, www.randyglasgow
productions.info
Old Time Sailor Mas
Photo: Maria Nunes
17 Dwight Yorke Island
Vibes 2018 Cooler Fête
Pigeon Point Heritage
Park, Pigeon Point
4 pm - 12 midnight
18- ‘Music Festival 2018’,
Mar T&T Music Association,
Queen’s Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s
Road, St. Ann’s, POS,
624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com.
18-19 ‘Alternative International
Comedy Festival’, Randy
Glasgow Productions,
628-9158,
www.randyglasgow
productions.info
Tournament’, Trinidad &
Tobago Yacht Club (TTYC),
Chaguaramas, 632-6608,
info@ttgfa.com
24-26 ‘Alternative International
Comedy Festival’, Randy
Glasgow Productions,
628-9158,
www.randyglasgow
productions.info
13
March
1 Leatherback Turtle watching,
season begins in Trinidad and
Tobago. Ends August 31st
2 Phagwa Celebrations,
Aranguez, Tunapuna, Carlsen
Field and other venues
4 Mt. St George Methodist
Church Harvest St. Ann’s, POS,
7:30 am, Mt. St. George
11 ‘First Citizens National
Poetry Slam Semi-Finals 1’,
Central Bank Auditorium, POS,
5 pm, 289-1595,
FB/The2CentsMovement
17 ‘The 16th Annual Jazz Artists
on the Greens’, Farm Road,
St Joseph, 620-6920, 5 pm,
www.jaotg.org
18 ‘First Citizens National
Poetry Slam Semi-Finals 2’,
Central Bank Auditorium, POS,
5 pm, 289-1595,
FB/The2CentsMovement
23 ‘Sports Awards 2018’, First
Citizens Sports Foundation,
Queen’s Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s
Road, St. Ann’s, POS,
624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
14 Trinidad & Tobago Calendar
23-24 ‘We Flippin’, Tots &
Tumblers Gymnastics Club,
‘Beauty & the Beast’,
6-8
DC Shell Theatre, Queen’s
Woodbrook Youth Facility, Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
684-8954, St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284,
www.totsandtumblers.com www.queenshalltt.com
25 ‘Palm Sunday Concert’, 10-14 ‘Marlin Madness Game
St Francis of Assisi RC Fishing Tournament’,
Church Production, Queen’s Pigeon Point, Tobago,
Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road, 632-6608, info@ttgfa.com
12-15 ‘Season 2018’,
624-1284, Metamorphosis Dance
www.queenshalltt.com Theatre Productions,
29-1 ‘Rumpelstilskin & the Queen’s Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s
April Golden Princess’, Queen’s Road, St. Ann’s, POS,
Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road, 624-1284,
St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284, www.queenshalltt.com
www.queenshalltt.com 17-24 ‘Arabian Nights’, Carvalho
30 Good Friday Productions, Queen’s Hall,
(Public Holiday) 1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
30 Spiritual Baptist St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284,
Liberation Day (Public www.queenshalltt.com
Holiday) 23 ‘San Fernando Fashion
Week’, 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm,
April 372-8119 or 722-6059,
www.sanfernandofashion
1 Easter Sunday week.webs.com
(Public Holiday)
25-29 ‘NGC Bocas Lit Fest’ T&T
2 Easter Monday literary festival, NALIS
(Public Holiday)
Amphitheatre, Abercromby
3 ‘Tobago Easter Crab and Street, POS, 10 am to
Goat Races’, The Integrated midnight, 222-7099,
Facility, Buccoo, Tobago, info@bocaslitfest.com
Marilyn Roberts, 709-9084
Phagwa
Inset: Spiritual Baptist Liberation Day
Photos: Andrea de Silva
25 Excellent Stores Interschool
Regatta, 8 am, 333-6976,
FB/TTDBF
26 ‘Tobago Fashion Coda’,
Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf
Resort, Lowlands, Tobago,
660-8500, www.magdalena
grand.com
27-28 ‘Prime Minister’s Charity Golf
Classic Tournament’, Magdalena
Grand Beach & Golf Resort,
Lowlands, Tobago, 660-8500,
www.magdalenagrand.com
27-29 ‘Theatrical Comedy’, First
Instinct Production, Queen’s
Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com.
29 ‘First Citizens National
Poetry Slam Finals’, NAPA,
POS, 6 pm, 289-1595,
admin@2centsmovement.com
TBA ‘Tobago Jazz Experience’,
Pigeon Point, 639-2284,
www.tobagojazz experience.
com
‘Radio 90.5 fm Annual Easter
Kite Flying Competition’,
Queen’s Park Savannah, POS,
622-0451,
www.radio90fm.com
 Dragon Boat Racing
Photo: Christopher Anderson
May
3-6 ‘The Decibel
Entertainment Festival’,
Republic Bank Limited
Production, Queen’s Hall,
St. Ann's, 622-5616,
www.decibelexpo.com
5 ‘Point Fortin Pan On
The Move’, throughout
the streets of Point Fortin
11-12 ‘Gymnastics Showcase’,
Rhythmika School of
Rhythmic Gymnastics
Production, Queen’s Hall,
1-3 St. Ann’s Road, 30 ‘Sean Daniel in
St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
12-13 Annual Mother’s Day
Orchid Show - Trinidad
and Tobago Orchid
Society 350-7539, www.queenshalltt.com
Oasis Garden Terrace, San
Fernando, 10 am to 6 pm,
www.ttorchids.net
13 Mother’s Day
18-20 ‘2018 Dance Production’,
Lilliput Children’s Theatre
Production, Queen’s Hall,
1-3 St. Ann’s Road, 30 Indian Arrival Day
St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
19-20 ‘Tobago International
Sea-to-Sea Marathon’,
Lambeau Beach, Tobago,
5K starts: 6:30 am & half
and full marathon starts:
5 am, 394-2884, www.
seatoseamarathon.com
25-27 ‘Marionettes Concert’,
The Marionettes Chorale
June
Production, Queen’s 1-2 ‘10th Anniversary Salsa
Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road, Fiesta TnT 2018’, Salsa
St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284, Fiesta TnT Ltd Production,
www.queenshalltt.com Queen’s Hall, St. Ann's,
471-5898, 9 am to 3 pm,
26 ‘Jazz on the Beach’,
Mt Irvine Hotel Beach, www.salsafiestatnt.com
Mt Irvine, Tobago, 1-3 ‘10th Anniversary Salsa
2 pm to 6 pm, 639-8871, Fiesta TnT Party’, Salsa
www.mtirvine.com Fiesta TnT Ltd Production,
the Cascadia, St. Ann's,
29 ‘North Coast Jazz’,
Blanchisseuse Fishing 471-5898, 8 pm,
www.salsafiestatnt.com
Village, Blanchisseuse,
628-5835 / 683-9066 3 ‘QEDTT Concert’,
Quite Exquisitely Done
Production, Queen’s Hall,
Concert’, Island
Christians Production, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road, St. Ann’s,
POS, 624-1284,
Queen’s Hall, 1-3
St. Ann’s Road, St. Ann’s, www.queenshalltt.com
POS, 624-1284, 9 ‘Kingfish Tournament’,
Trinidad & Tobago Yacht
Club (TTYC), Chaguaramas,
30 ‘10th Anniversary
Salsa Fiesta TnT 632-6608, info@ttgfa.com
Party’, Salsa Fiesta TnT 9-10 ‘2018 Dance Production’,
Ltd Production, The Cascade Festival Ballet
Cascadia, St. Ann's, Production, Queen’s Hall,
471-5898, 8 pm, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
www.salsafiestatnt.com St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
(Public Holiday) 16-17 Tobago Dragon Boat
Festival, Festival
31 Corpus Christi
(Public Holiday) Commission, 639-4441
16 ‘2018 Concert’, Coconut
‘Trinidad and Tobago
Fashion Week 2TFW’, Productions, Queen’s Hall,
1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
706-2155, www.dus1.org,
www.2tfw.com St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
Trinidad & Tobago Calendar
17 Father’s Day
19 Labour Day
(Public Holiday)
22-24 ‘Musical Production’,
Must Come See
Productions, Queen’s
Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
St. Ann’s, POS, 624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
29-1 ‘2018 Gospel Concert’,
June Renaissance Productions,
Queen’s Hall, 1-3 St. Ann’s
Road, St. Ann’s, POS,
624-1284,
www.queenshalltt.com
30 Charlotteville Fisherman
Festival, Street Parade /
Street Party, 12 noon
Charlotteville
TBA ‘Dining with the Saints’,
CIC College Compound,
Frederick Street, POS,
624-8468,
www.cicpsu.org
‘We Beat Festival’,
week long celebration and
cultural events, St James,
www.webeat.org
‘Latin Food Festival’,
Santa Cruz, 392-4966 /
388-2114
Eid-Ul-Fitr Celebrations
(Public Holiday)
652-6061,
asjatrinidad@gmail.com,
www.asjatrinidad.org
15
July
4 Laventille Steelband
Festival, Parade  through
the streets ending at
Angostura, Eastern Main
Road, Laventille, 5 pm
5-8 ‘Trade and Investment
Convention (TIC)’,
Centre of Excellence,
Macoya, 10 am, 675-8862,
www.tic-tt.com
7 ‘Junior Angler Fishing
Tournament’, Trinidad &
Tobago Yacht Club (TTYC),
Chaguaramas, 632-6608
7-8 Speyside Fisherman
Festival, Street Gathering associationtt.com
12 noon, Speyside, Tobago
TBA ‘Trinidad & Tobago
Mango Festival’,
222-3721, www.nrwptt.net
‘Tobago Heritage Festival’,
Arts & Entertainment,
hosted at various villages,
639-5016/4441, www.
tobagoheritagefestival.com
August
1 Emancipation Day Woodbrook, 689-6518,
(Public Holiday)
Emancipation Support
Committee of T&T, 628-5008,
www.emancipationtt.com
1-31 ‘Tobago Heritage Festival’,
Arts & Entertainment
hosted at various villages,
639-5016/4441, www.
tobagoheritage festival. com
1-31 ‘Experience T&T 2018’, Awards, Fireworks
T&T Incoming Tour Operators
Association, tours at various
sites and attractions in T&T,
633-1403, www.tour operators
11 ‘Carib Great Race Parade
and Boat Roadshow’,
parade throughout the streets
of POS and East Trinidad, Pan Trinbago’s
8 am to 6 pm, www.ttpba.net
18 ‘Carib Great Race’, race starts
at 6 am at Hyatt Regency
Trinidad, POS to Scarborough,
Tobago, Prize presentation at
Esplanade, Scarborough,
www.ttpba.net
25 ‘Pan on d’Avenue
VII’, Ariapita Avenue,
allima.garcia@gmail.com
26 Castara Fisherman Fête
Street Party, Castara
Tobago, 1 pm until 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm,
635-1207/ 732-4904
31 Independence Day
(Public Holiday)
Independence Day
Military Parade, National
31 ‘Independence Cup’,
Horse Racing, Santa Rosa
Park, 646-2450/1, starts at Roxy roundabout at
www.arimaraceclub.com
31 D Lime Religious Musical
Concert, 6 pm, James
Park, Tobago
Steelband Month
www.pantrinbago.com
September
18-25 ‘trinidad+tobago
film festival 2018’,
Movietowne, POS & Against Breast Cancer 5K’,
San Fernando, UWI and
Hyatt, 621-0709,
www.ttfilmfestival.com
21-22 ‘Drummerville Festival 3’,
Worldwide Stage Events,
Queen’s Hall, POS, 781-3064,
worldwidestageevents@gmail.
com
23 ‘San Fernando Fashion Week’
372-8119 / 722-6059,
www.sanfernandofashionweek.
webs.com
24 Republic Day
(Public Holiday)
24 ‘Republic Day Invaders J’ouvert
Jump Up’, Steelband and J’ouvert
celebrations around the oval,
4:30 am to 9:30 am, 345-3442
26-30 Tobago International Cycling
Classic, Tobago, 680-1214
www.Trinibagowheelers.com
27 World Tourism Day
TBA ‘Tobago Heritage Festival’,
Arts & Entertainment at
various villages throughout
Tobago, 639-5016/4441, www.
tobagoheritagefestival.com
‘Scotiabank Women Walk
Lowlands, Tobago, Skinner’s Park,
San Fernando & Queen’s Park
Savannah, POS, 625-3566

Carib Great Race 2017 Winner - Mr. Solo

Photo: Marcus Gomez
Inset: Tobago Heritage Festival
Photo: Trinidad Media Concepts

16 Trinidad & Tobago Calendar

Trinidad & Tobago Calendar 17
October
3-7 ‘Southex International
Expo’, Gulf City,
San Fernando, 10am,
653-2908,
www.southex.co.tt
16 World Food Day
21-28 National Tourism Week
21 ‘Tobago Blue Food
Festival’, 20th Anniversary,
Bloody Bay Recreational
Grounds, Tobago, 10 am to 7
pm, 639-2125,
www.visittobago.gov.tt
Oct - ‘NGC SANFEST 2018’,
Nov Arts & Entertainment,
San Fernando Arts Council,
Creative Arts Centre,
97C Circular Road,
San Fernando, 222-4612,
657-7665,
www.sfactt.weebly.com
TBA ‘Tobago Street Fair’,
Crown Point, Tobago,
5 pm till, 879-3990,
tobagoloveyou2@gmail.com
‘Tobago Heritage Festival’, Parang
Photos: Maria Nunes
Arts & Entertainment at
various villages throughout
Tobago,
639-5016/4441, www. November December
tobagoheritagefestival.com
18 Les Coteaux Anglican Church 4 Assembly Day
‘Coco Dance Festival’, Harvest 3 pm, Les Coteaux Assembly Celebrations,
Contemporary THA, Tobago
Choreographers’ 18 Moriah Moravian Church
Collective (COCO), Harvest, 3 pm, Moriah 6 THA Tree Lighting Ceremony
Arts & Entertainment. 25 St. Andrews Anglican Church Holiday Celebration,
cocodancett@gmail.com Harvest, 10 am, 639-2485, 6:30 pm Botanical
St. Andrews, 635-2485 Gardens, Tobago
‘Calypso History Month’,
25 Christmas Day If a public
www.tucott.com 25 Mt. Gomery Moravian Church
(Public Holiday) holiday falls on
Opening of the ‘Parang Harvest, 3 pm, Mt. Gomery
a Sunday, the
Season’ by the National Oct - ‘NGC SANFEST 2018’, 26 Boxing Day holiday will be
Parang Association of T&T Nov Arts & Entertainment, (Public Holiday) observed on
(NPATT), weekend of Parang San Fernando Arts Council, 31 Old Year’s/New Year’s the Monday
& Christmas festivities, Creative Arts Centre, 97C Celebrations immediately
various venues, 667-3348 / Circular Road, San Fernando, following.
746-4466, 222-4612, 657-7665, 31 ‘Barefoot on the Beach 2017’,
Mt Irvine Beach Hotel, Mt Irvine, If two public
www.npatt.com www.sfactt.weebly.com
Tobago, 9 pm to 3 am, holidays fall on
Silver Stars: ‘Parang and TBA Annual ‘Pan, Parang & Pork’, 639-8871, www.mtirvine.com the same day,
Steel’, Tragarete Road, Liz Namsoo, Invader’s Steel the following
Woodbrook, POS Orchestra (PRO) 345-3442, TBA ‘Annual Paramin Parang
day is also a
Oval, POS Festival’, Paramin Development
‘Pan & Parang’, Carib public holiday.
Committee’s Annual Parang
Woodbrook Playboyz, ‘Food Fest and Family Day Festival, John Mader Most
Woodbrook, POS 2018’, Brasso Seco Paria Village Recreational Grounds, Paramin, businesses
‘Fatima Food Fest’, Fatima Council, 270-5116, 791-0200, 7 pm to 2 am, Free shuttle are closed
College, Mucurapo Road, www.brassosecoparia.com service to Paramin R.C., on Carnival
St. James, 7 pm to 11 pm, Divali (Diwali) 689-7524 Monday and
628-4735 (Public Holiday) Tuesday, even
‘Lighting of the Christmas
‘Santa Rosa First National Council of Indian though these
Tree’, Magdalena Grand Beach
People Heritage Week’, Culture (NCIC) 671-6242, days are not
& Golf Resort, Lowlands,
Arima, 664–1897, www. 389-8425, office@ncictt.com, public holidays.
Tobago, 660-8500, www.
santarosafirstpeople.org tibl@hotmail.com magdalenagrand.com

18 Trinidad & Tobago Calendar

Sports Calendar
January
4-8 T&T vs Leeward Islands
Regional 4 Day (Queen's
Park Oval) (Balmain, Couva)
6-7 Brechin Castle Golf Open
(Brechin Castle)
19-21 Monica Sealy Golf
Tournament (Plantations,
Tobago)
21 Trinidad International
Marathon
February
17-19 Sailing Regatta (Pigeon
Point)
16-17 Scarborough Cup Golf
(Plantations, Tobago)
17-19 Tobago Annual Kitesurfing
Carnival Regatta
(Pigeon Point)
March
9-10 Wahoo Fishing
Tournament (T&T Yacht
Club, Bayshore)
16-19 Trinidad & Tobago Open
(St. Andrews, Moka)
18 Dragon Boat Regatta
(Chagville, Chaguaramas)
23-24 Southern Games
(Guaracara Park)
30 -31 Easter Grand Prix Cycling
(Arima Velodrome, Skinner
Park & Couva)
30 FA Cup Final (Hasely
Crawford Stadium)
31 Easter Guineas
(Santa Rosa Horseracing
Complex)
April
7-8 T&T Open Golf (St
Andrews, Trinidad)
7-10 Marlin Madness Fishing
Tournament (Pigeon Point,
Tobago)
20 NGC T20 Festival Final
21-22 Sagicor Golf Tournament
(St. Andrews, Moka)
TBA West Indies v Bangladesh
Test Series
TBA Visiting Test tour of West
Indies (Queen's Park Oval)
May
5 Point Fortin Borough
Day Annual Dragon Boat
Regatta
11-13 Tobago International
Game Fishing Tournament
12 Prime Minister's Charity
Golf Tournament
(St Andrews, Trinidad)
19 Rainbow Cup International
Triathlon (Grafton, Tobago)
19- 20 Hampton International
Games (Hasely Crawford
Stadium)
23 Cotton Tree Foundation
Charity Golf Tournament
(St. Andrews, Moka)
30 Midsummer Classic
(Santa Rosa Horseracing
Complex)
June
3 Paddle for the Planet
Dragon Boat Racing
(Chagville, Chaguaramas)
19 -20 Sea to Sea Marathon
(Bloody Bay &
Scarborough, Tobago)
9-23 National Open Tennis
Championships (Eddie
Taylor Public Courts)
23 Tobago Dragon Boat
Festival (Pigeon Point)
Trinidad & Tobago Calendar
Caribbean Premier League
Photos: Allan V Crane
22-24 National Athletic
Championships (Hasely
16 Maracas
Open Water Swim
Crawford Stadium) 22-23 UWI Golf Tournament
30 National Youth Sports (Millennium, Trincity)
Festival (Eddie Hart 23 UWI Half Marathon
Grounds, Tacarigua)
24 Republic Day Cycling Classic
30 Charlotteville Fisherman (Mandela Park, Trinidad)
Festival (Tobago)
24 Republic Day Regatta
(Roxborough, Tobago)
July 29 Scotiabank Women Against
Breast Cancer 5K (Queen's Park
1-2 Coral Cup Classic Golf Savannah)
Tournament (Millennium
Lakes, Trincity) 29 -30 Tobago Tennis Open (Shaw
Park)
8 Point-a-Pierre Corporate
Golf Tournament
12-16 Tobago Motor Rally October
(Grafton)
Super Ten National Basketball
TBA West Indies v Sri Lanka Tournament (through to
Test & ODI Series December)
1- 5 Tour of Tobago
August 7 UCI Tobago Cycling Classic
3 Cycling on d’ Avenue
Caribbean Premier League
T20 Cricket (Queen's Park (Woodbrook, Trinidad)
Oval & BCLA Tarouba) 7 Dragon Boat Festival
(Various dates, several (Chaguaramas)
matches) 14 Store Bay Open Water
9-12 Tobago Open Golf Swimming Classic (Tobago)
(Magdalena) 20 National Surfing
12-14 Tarpon Fishing Championships (Mt. Irvine,
Tournament Tobago)
25 The Great Race (Port of 22 UWI Half Marathon
Spain to Scarborough)
31 Bankers Insurance Half
Marathon (Pt. Lisas)
November
3 TT ProLeague Cup Final (Hasely
Crawford Stadium)
September 2-4 Bago Beach Football
1 2018 FIFA World Cup International
Qualifier T&T v Honduras 24-26 Tobago Open Golf (Plantations)
(Hasely Crawford Stadium)
7-9 South Caribbean Open
Golf (Plantations Tobago) December
15 Trinidad Derby (Santa TBA Trinidad & Tobago Olympic
Rosa Horseracing Committee Sports Awards
Complex)
19
 Harts Carnival Band
Photo: Lisa Fernandez/Lifepyx
Crossing the
stage at Carnival
Photo: John Bryden
Inset: Blue Devil
Photo: Richard Lyder

T he Cure of Carnival By Sheldon Waithe

Stress: the global epidemic that needs the perfect cure, to reset the
mind and body to be able to cope with all that life throws at you. The
remedy is not medicinal, it’s 100% natural, just follow the prescription.
Take two weeks of T&T Carnival and call us on Ash Wednesday morning.

22 Festivals
 T&T is good for you in so many ways; it’s reflected in the songs every Carnival
season that proclaim we’re the ‘happiest people alive’ or that in the face of
adversity ‘we jamming still’. The source is the festival to end all festivals; an
extravaganza that builds from the debut of Soca songs on New Year’s Day, to the all
out explosion of colour, expression and freedom that is Carnival weekend. It’s a varied
treatment, that leaves you wanting more.
Begin by being immersed in Port of Spain with fellow ‘limers’ who now have a rhythmic,
albeit tired bounce in their step, a bit tired because they’ve been partying since January 1st
when the fêtes begin: and they’re so many - cooler fêtes, all inclusives, dressed-up galas, live
performances with fireworks and lazers, water spraying fêtes, breakfast fêtes, boat fêtes. Try them all with
the notion that on this wellness trajectory, variety is the spice of life (www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com).
It’s now time to add comedy and music to the remedial process which means a visit to the Calypso Tents that dot
the cityscape (http://www.tucott.com/). Within are political, global and local observations, together with the inevitable
‘picong’ (light banter at someone’s expense), or just plain comical performances from calypsonians that ply their trade
with rivalry and camaraderie.

Festivals 23
 The musical medication now moves into the
soothing phase, with visits to the steel pan yards for
the lead up to the all important Panorama competition
(www.pantrinbago.co.tt).
The senses now relaxed, time for theatre and a
history lesson. On Carnival Friday morning the re-
enactment of the Canboulay Riots of 1880 that take
place in downtown Port of Spain is a must.
Before that though, some shock treatment.
Remaining in the hub of activity in the Capital,
macabre characters suddenly appear as Ole Mas' takes
hold. Blue Devils and Firebreathers join ten foot tall
Moko Jumbies to walk the streets. It continues with the
beings from T&T’s forest folklore in Viey La Cou, the
La Diablesse and Papa Bois amongst them at the UWI
Campus.
You’ve had the ‘training’ of the fêtes and their varied
hours, now it’s time for the first real stamina test, the
International Soca Monarch (www.socamonarch.net/).
Every major Soca artist vies for the crown; a true dusk
‘till dawn affair and one that forces you to change into
high gear.
As the Kings and Queens of the Carnival compete,
enjoy a kaleidoscope of colours, sequins, feathers
meshed onto towering frames at the Dimanche Gras
on Sunday night.
J’ouvert, the opening of the day, is a treasured
Afro-Caribbean tradition of renewal and celebration
with bands of revellers covered in mud, cocoa or clay,
dancing through the streets until dawn. A few hours
later that very morning, the dramatic contrasting
glamour of the Parade of Bands begins. The road is
yours: dance the stress away and bank more liberation
for the year ahead; such is the abundance of revellery
for the next 48 hours.
In all this, there is a side effect, commonly known
as ‘Tabanca’, which affects every masquerader on Ash
Wednesday.
Thus far there is only one known cure: next year’s
Carnival!

Tribe Carnival Band, Kiddies Carnival and J’ouvert

Photos: RAPSO Imaging, Andrea de Silva and Damian Luk Pat
 Midnight Robber
This beloved traditional
Carnival character, is known for a
highly rhetorical "robber talk". The
Robber is a cultural mix of gunslingers
from spaghetti westerns and eloquent
African Griots (storytellers) - so
beware - when the whistle blows
you must listen!

Photo: Maria Nunes

 Hart
conceptualised
his version of Mas’,
based on creativity,
fun and an enduring
respect for
tradition.
Edmond Gerald Hart
1923-2017
meet a Trini
The Hart of Mas’
​​​By Sheldon Waithe
Fifty-eight years strong, on the road - it takes a powerful
foundation to sustain such a legacy in the ever-evolving
world that is T&T Carnival. Edmond Hart was that
cornerstone.
Together with his wife Lil, one of the first female Carnival
costume designers, Hart conceptualised his version of Mas’,
based on creativity, fun and an enduring respect for tradition.
That ethos continues to this day, as their children and
grandchildren build upon that first band that Edmond Hart
brought to Carnival in 1961.
Born in 1923 in St Joseph, Hart grew up in San Fernando.
His mother sewed Carnival costumes and a young Edmond
happily played Mas’ from the age of nine; by the time the
family moved to Port of Spain in the 1950s, he was fully
immersed in the band culture, joining the committee of band
leader Bobby Ammon.
Opportunity came his way when Ammon resigned from
his role a mere five weeks before the 1961 Carnival and the
committee pushed Hart into leadership. He duly obliged,
added his name to the banner and a movement was born.
The Customs Broker now brought his strong organisational
skills to the fore, including encouraging his wife to spearhead
the creative process.
From the beginning Lil’s perception and subsequent
conceptualisation were based around fun; she was often
quoted as listing the masquerader’s enjoyment as one of
her priorities. With their marriage also creating the union of
sound administration and imaginative themes, the sky was
the limit. ‘Edmond Hart’ began to attract people from across
the social strata. Reflecting societal change, it became the
middle-income option and with numbers swelling, soon they
were in the Big Band category.
26 Feature
By 1966 he had won his first Band of the Year title with
“Playing Cards” and would go on to take the coveted
prize a further four times over the next 22 years (evidence
of the band’s staying power).
Innovation was a key part of the repertoire. He was
responsible for hiring DJs to play on the music trucks,
introducing security measures to the band, and adding
well- stocked drink carts within the band, the precursor to
the massive trucks on the road today. The ‘bikini & beads’
costumes also found their genesis in ‘Edmond Hart’:
when they realised that some band members would cut
or alter costumes to facilitate comfort, the Harts decided
to try a ‘bathsuit Mas’ section, but with uncertainty of the
demand; it sold out.
Away from the road, he was a keen administrator and
visionary, joining with Neville Aming and George Bailey,
he liaised with then Prime Minister Dr. Eric Williams and
formed the Carnival Bandleaders Association.
Little wonder that as the nation celebrated its 50th
Anniversary of Independence in 2012, Edmond Hart was
named one of the 50 Most Influential People of T&T. It
was just recognition to match his 1973 Hummingbird Gold
Medal for his contribution to the development of Carnival.
When he died in September 2017, the Mas’ community
was shaken, but Hart and his family have built an
enduring cornerstone. Today, Harts is a much-loved
band with thousands of masqueraders, managed by his
children Gerard, Luis and Aixa and grandchildren. Just like
his favourite incarnation, “Flagwavers of Sienna” (1962),
the design that made his 176 masqueraders seem like so
many more, Edmond Hart has left an everlasting effect
upon Carnival at home and throughout the Caribbean.
Harts Carnival Band
Photo: Ryan Jagessar/Carnival Central
 The Art of
Stick-fighting
“I was born as a warrior, my father was a stick-fighter,
so I is not no pushover, now I fighting back.”
“Buss Head” Machel Montano and Bunji Garlin

By Paul Hadden

Photo: Maria Nunes

Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago is a dynamic, ever-evolving
affair. Yet there are some aspects of the celebration which have
remained true to the original rebellious spirit of festival. Stick-
fighting, an ancient martial art originally brought to these shores
by Africans, is one such form of expression which links Carnival’s
care-free modern incarnation to its roots in the tumultuous
days of slavery. A symbol of ancient strength and resilience,
the art of stick-fighting has overcome all historical attempts at
suppression and is now an integral part of the yearly Carnival
celebrations.
Stick-fighting, also known as kalenda, is a highly ritualised
fight that takes place in a gayelle, or ring, to the pulsating beat
of drums and chants, often sung in French Patois. The singing
is led by a chantuelle who alternates between encouraging and
mocking the fighters. The warriors enter the ring with nothing
but a long piece of wood, called a bois, and no padding but
their clothes. The goal of a stick-fight is simple: be the first to
draw blood from your opponent. It is a ritual which evokes the
struggle of the ancestors, for in the ring the bois-men still move
and fight to the ancient rhythms of drums.
Stick fighting has been described by many as a form of
ritualised violence. But it is as much a dance as it is a fight; the
gayelle where art and warfare combine. Stick-fighting reminds
us that the origins of Carnival date back to a time of conflict,
subjugation, and, most importantly, resistance.
These days, the National Carnival Commission hosts
an organised kalenda competition as part of the Carnival
celebrations. These fights are open to the public and tickets are
normally available at Lotto outlets throughout the country. Those
interested in learning more about the art form can also check
out the documentary ‘No Bois Man No Fraid’ available at Paper
Based Bookshop at the Normandie Hotel, St Ann’s.

28 Festivals
 Steelpan
Festivities All Year
By Paul Hadden

These islands are home to a diverse array of musical

styles and instruments, but it is the mighty steelpan
which still lies at the heart of the Trinidadian and
Tobagonian musical landscape. Aside from the annual
Panorama competition which takes place at the
height of the Carnival season, there are several events
that pan aficionados enjoy throughout the year.

Pan Trinbago’s Steelband Month

Every August, Pan Trinbago hosts a month long celebration of all things
pan. Though the itinerary is constantly evolving, with new events being added
every year, patrons can expect to be treated to a host of concerts, exhibitions,
competitions, and seminars. Great news for all those who aren’t lucky enough
to be in the country for the Carnival season!

Pan on D’Avenue
Originally launched in 2011 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the
Woodbrook community, Pan on D’Avenue is one of the most highly anticipated
events for ‘Steelband Month’. For this event, Ariapita Avenue, a hotspot for
‘liming’ and dining throughout the year, is traffic-free and transformed into a
parade route for local steelpan bands. There is no charge to attend the event,
and spectators are free to roam the avenue, dancing next to which ever pan-
side catches their attention. Spectators can also look forward to stilt-walking
Moko Jumbies, whip cracking Jab-Jab devils, and a host of other traditional
Carnival characters.

Pan in the Countryside

Another popular event for Steelband month, Pan in the Countryside offers
free performances from several prominent steelband groups that travel
throughout villages across the twin islands. As with any entertaining event,
these concerts normally have lots of food stalls.

Pan Yards
Even if you might not be here for the actual Panorama competition, the
months and weeks leading up to the event are still a wonderful time to get a
taste of pan. As the various bands prepare for the competition, the pan yards,
where they practise late into the night, are open to the public. So bring a chair,
a cooler full of cold drinks, and prepare to witness the creation and perfection
of a steelpan symphony.

Check out www.pantrinbago.com for more information

on steelpan events hosted throughout the year. Photos: Maria Nunes

Festivals 29
M
ulticultural Festivals
There are few places in the world where you can
dance to tassa drums at midnight, watch moons kiss,
paint your friends in purple and pink or light your way
with flambeaux as you walk through the city. Life in
the festival islands of Trinidad and Tobago is always
unmatched; not many places in the world can boast of
By Anna Walcott-Hardy having so many people of different faiths, ethnicities
and cultures come together to remember the past and
celebrate a promising future.

30 Festivals
 Divali Celebrations
Inset: Ganesh Utsav
Photos: Edison Boodoosingh

HINDU FESTIVALS
Phagwa
This colourful spring festival, also associated
with fertility, is rooted in a tragic religious history.
Phagwa marks the death of a king, Hiranyakashipu,
who although blessed by Brahma, used his powers
for evil instead of good. He would ultimately be
destroyed by an avatar of Lord Vishnu. On fields and
playgrounds throughout Trinidad, celebrants drench each
other in “abeer”, a brightly coloured blue, pink and purple
liquid and sing chowtals in remembrance.

Ganga Dashahara
Originally celebrated along the banks of the Ganga (Ganges) River in India,
in Trinidad worshippers meet at the Marianne River in Blanchisseuse, Arima. After fasting for
several weeks before the day in readiness for the puja, worshippers then dress in yellow, a symbolic
colour of purity, and walk along the river to the headwaters, carrying offerings of buttercups, milk
and fruit, stopping intermittently to perform pujas along the way.

Festivals 31
 Divali (Diwali)
This Hindu festival of light held in the
month of Kartik, welcomes the end of the
harvest season and usually takes place in
October or November. Across the country
deyas (small clay lamps) are placed
on walls and paths and along elegant
bamboo arches in parks and fields. On
the day, Hindus honour the goddess
Lakshmi with a puja (ceremony) at 6pm
when the first deya is lit. After fasting
for up to a month before the celebration,
homes are cleaned in preparation for the
entrance and blessings of Lakshmi. On
the day, a special feast is prepared and
shared with neighbours.

Ramleela
For ten nights the epic story of the
battle of good over evil is brought to life.
The story of Ramleela, from the Hindu
Holy book, the Ramayana, is enacted by
elaborately costumed boys and girls in
villages across the country. On the first
Friday in the month of Ashwin, during
the period known as Nowrataam, this
Obatala
Photo: Maria Nunes
dramatic performance is hosted by over
Inset: Hosay 35 groups across the country.
Photo: Andrea de Silva

MUSLIM FESTIVALS
Hosay
Make sure to travel to either St James in
the north, Tunapuna in the east or Cedros
in the south of the island to witness the
Muslim festival of Hosay which takes
place over three nights. In remembrance
of the murdered grandsons of the prophet
Muhammed – Hassan and Hosein, on the
first night, Flag Night, towering, colourful
flags (symbols of war) are waved by
One of the largest celebrants as they dance through the
religious groups in streets to the booming sounds of Tassa
Trinidad and Tobago drums. The second night features the
mosaics of the Small Tadjah, as devotees
are Christians, including push the intricately decorated replicas
Roman Catholics, of mausoleums through the town. Then
Anglicans, Methodists, on Big Tadjah night, the larger more
Presbyterians among grandiose designs are also on display;
many others. followed by the culmination of the
event with the dancing of the green and
blue crescent moons, each carried by
performers that dance and briefly “kiss”
before moving apart. The following
afternoon the Tadjahs are taken to the
Photo: Edison Boodoosingh
seaside and set afloat, a final farewell.

32 Festivals

Eid Ul Adha
On this day Muslims across the country honour the devotion
of Prophet Ibrahim, also known as Father Abraham to Christians,
who was willing to sacrifice his first born son Isaac in submission
to the will of his God. Ultimately, he was told to forego this and
instead offer a ram for sacrifice. In commemoration, Muslims
sacrifice animals such as sheep and goats and share the prepared
meal with friends, family and the less fortunate.
Ramadan & Eid Ul Fitr
After a month of self-sacrifice and fasting from dusk to dawn,
as well as prayer and charitable donations during the Holy month
of Ramadan which usually begins in May, the close is celebrated
when the moon is sighted. During this time of Eid Ul Fitr, Muslims
enjoy a feast with friends and family, prepare and share sweets as
well as give alms to the poor.
MULTI-CULTURAL
La Divina Pastora/Sopari Mai
In the Roman Catholic Church of La Divina Pastora in Siparia
sits the holy shepherdess, also known as Sopari Mai, Supari Mai,
the mother of Siparia or the Black Madonna. She is recognised by
Christians as a representation of the Virgin Mary, by Hindus as a
manifestation of Mother Durga or Lakshmi as well as celebrated
by the Orisha and indigenous peoples, among others. On Holy
Thursday and Friday large queues are formed by those waiting
patiently to pray in the presence of the elaborately dressed,
revered statue, seated on the altar. Some bring offerings of
jewellery, money, flowers and olive oil. A few weeks later, pilgrims
walk through the streets of Siparia to celebrate the feast of La
Divina Pastora, reciting the rosary and singing Marian hymns.
In 2017 a one-
off holiday in
honour of the
First Peoples took
place in October
in Trinidad
and Tobago.
Representatives
from the diaspora
including Guyana,
Suriname, Belize
and Dominica
came to celebrate
and network with
local groups.
Photo: Maria Nunes
First People Heritage celebrations
Last year the celebration of the indigenous people who inhabited
these islands, long before the arrival of Columbus in 1498, was
celebrated nationally with a holiday. The Santa Rosa
First Peoples Community in Arima (known as the place of water),
where battles of résistance against the cruelty and enslavement of
the indigenous people by the colonists were fought, is also home
to many descendants. The statue of the noble Hyarima stands at
the entrance to the city and there, as well as in Port of Spain, many
ceremonies took place in recognition of the profound contribution of
the indegenous people to national development.
Christian Holidays
One of the largest religious groups in Trinidad and Tobago are
Christians, including Roman Catholics, Anglicans, Methodists,
Presbyterians among many others. Annually, there are several key
celebrations including: Spiritual Baptist Liberation Day, Christmas
Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Monday, as well as Corpus
Christi. Many worship at the churches across the country and others
process through the streets. On Christmas Eve, midnight mass is a
popular tradition, where families attend church together and then
return home to open presents that morning or later in the day.
In December, in many villages including Petit Valley, Paramin
and Santa Cruz, the tradition of Parang is popular. To celebrate
the season, songs of celebration are sung in a Spanish patois and
paranderos move from home to home to serenade their neighbours,
with a small band of singers and musicians armed with Quatro
(small guitar) and shack-shack. They are in turn invited to share the
family’s Christmas fare - drinks of sorrel, rum and ginger beer as well
as tasty dishes of garlic pork, pastelles and ham, all in the Christmas
spirit of sharing.
Festivals 33
 Emancipation
Celebrations
By Paul Hadden

The Caribbean islands, though stunningly beautiful and rich

with culture, are home to a brutal history of colonization,
exploitation, and unimaginable suffering which was caused
by the Transatlantic Slave Trade. This dark period officially
came to an end in 1834, after nearly three centuries of
forced labour. Just over a century and half after the abolition
of slavery, Trinidad and Tobago became the first country in
the world to declare a public holiday to commemorate the
emancipation of the slaves.
This is an important day in the cultural
calendar of the island which not only
Photo: Andrea de Silva celebrates the end of slavery here in T&T,
but across all of the former colonies with
a sense of remembrance, as well as one
of celebration of the spirit of rejuvenation,
resilience and prosperity.
The annual Emancipation celebrations
include many different activities,
exhibitions, concerts, and shows, all
leading up to the dynamic Canboulay
street procession which takes place on the
holiday, August 1st. The week before the
holiday, an Emancipation Village is set up
in the heart of the Queen’s Park Savannah.
The village is created to host both a stage
used for cultural performances, as well as a
shopping centre to celebrate traditional art,
jewelry, fashion, and food. The activities
vary from year to year, but often include
cultural workshops teaching various art
forms such as stilt-walking, storytelling and
drumming.
On the day of the holiday, thousands
of participants gather on the Brian Lara
Promenade, Port of Spain, many wearing
traditional African clothing, ready to join
the Canboulay street parade. Towering
Moko Jumbie stilt-walkers, dance groups,
drummers, and steelband parade through
the streets of Port of Spain and join a
flambeaux procession in honour of the
many historic slave rebellions.
Photo: Maria Nunes

34 Festivals
 Odun Egungun By Paul Hadden

The Orisha faith, a religion deeply rooted

in ancient West African culture, is one
which managed to survive the turbulent
and corrosive laws of colonialism, and is
still practised in the islands today. After
resisting fierce attempts at suppression,
Orisha saw a fresh revival with the influx
of free blacks brought from West Africa
to work as indentured labourers on the
plantations after the abolition of slavery.

The faith is one of many colourful strands in this multi-cultural

tapestry out of which this country’s culture is woven, and, like
the many other faiths practised on the islands, it has had a deep
impact on the music, culture, and Carnival tradition. Its rites and
rituals play an integral part in the religious heritage of
Trinidad and Tobago.
In the Orisha faith, there exists many
rites which serve to honour the memory
of the ancestors, and ensure that
they continue to bless, guide, and
protect the living. One of the most
spectacular of Orisha festivities
is the Odun Egungun, or
Egungun masqueraders, where
the ancestors are believed to
be brought to life in the form
of costumed masqueraders
who, it is believed, temporarily
possess the spirits of the
ancestors.
The Egungun ceremony
begins with private religious
rituals where food is offered to
the ancestors, and praises, known
as Oriki, are sung in both English and
Yoruba to honour their memory. These rites
are sacred and are not for public viewing, but
the preceeding procession of the Egungun through
the streets can be witnessed by all. The masked Egungun walk
throughout the community, to the rhythm of drums, blessing all
in sight and clearing the area of all negativity.
Photos: Maria Nunes

Festivals 35
Photo: Laura Ferreira Studios
T
RINIDAD
Sh o ppin g 2018 By Roslyn Carrington

Vacationing in Trinidad… so much to see, so much to

do. Sightseeing — check. Sampling great food — check.
Shopping — check, check, and oh yes, check! Trinis love a
good mall crawl; it’s almost as though the term “shop ‘till
you drop” was coined just for us. Sometimes, when you
get home, a dream vacation feels like just that; a
dream. Prove to yourself — and to everyone else
— that you were actually right here in paradise
by taking something back with you that will
make you smile.

Malls
The best thing about mall shopping is how
effortlessly it merges so well into other great ways
to fill your time. Take in a movie, meet for drinks,
enjoy a concert by local artists, or just sit, sip a
latté, and watch the rush and bustle pass you by.
Movietowne
C3 Centre
Excellent Stores
Retail Therapy 39
40 Retail Therapy
 In our malls you can find the best international brands in
clothing, shoes, handbags and hats. Indulge in an on-the-spot
makeover by a make-up artist, find your signature scent, or have
a trained stylist help you change your look. Not only will you
find international brands, but you’ll also discover home-grown
designers who bring a touch of Caribbean creativity to every
piece.
Jewellery makes for perfect vacation shopping; gorgeous,
personal, timeless, yet light and easy to pack. Try to visit a local
jeweller’s studio, or keep an eye open in larger stores for their
displays.
What about something that will grace your home for years
to come? You can select ornaments in crystal or bone china or
go for locally fired pottery, leathercraft, or even paintings, all of
which are available in malls or art studios. If you think
bigger is better, you can have larger items,
including furniture, shipped back home.
We are gadget-mad, so electronics
stores abound. Get expert advice
on the latest generations of
tablets and cellular phones,
or have repairs done
quickly and efficiently.
If you’re able to Sometimes the smallest
do a little cooking memento is the most
while you’re here, our treasured. Select a pendant,
trinket, or Pandora bead that
Wet Swimwear
perfectly symbolises your visit.
Dreamstones
supermarkets offer a
selection that won’t leave
you wanting; the best cuts
of meat, fresh produce, and
all the fixin’s you desire. Don’t
forget to pick up a bottle of wine;
there are folks on hand at specialty
stores who can advise you on pairings.
Of course, shopping in Trinidad doesn’t
end with the glitter and glam of the malls. Our
teeming city streets are alive with bargains. Nip into little nooks
and rummage through shelves weighed down by wonders. If
sewing is your thing, you can buy lengths of fabric. Why not
visit a little bookstore and pick up a novel by a local author for
poolside reading? Just be careful not to wander too far off the
beaten path.
Street vendors offer almost anything for sale, from clothes to
homemade sweets to Chinese preserves. Artisans sell leather
sandals and beaded bracelets, while produce vendors will insist
you try their fresh fruit or vegetables. It’s a swirling carnival of
the senses… and you’re at the centre of it all.
So, if shopping’s at the heart of your travel itinerary, shop on!

Retail Therapy 41
42 Retail Therapy
Home Décor
The home lies at the heart of our self-
expression, and we love filling it with Food
eclectic treasures that speak volumes Pick up a cookbook on
about us. Pick up a beautiful piece for local cuisine, gather up
your home, so that a part of us will be a basket of ingredients,
with you always. and then try your own
Fens Furniture Homestore Maraval “sweet hand”.
Fens Furniture Land South and Central Malabar Farms
Mi Casa Gourmet Shop
Signature Selection RIK
Ashley Furniture Store

Vintage Wines
Fashion Honeymoon, birthday, dream getaway or
“Cutting style”: a Trini just because. So many reasons to propose
expression meaning a toast, and so many wines to choose from.
to look and feel Red, white, rosé, or champagne — how will
fabulous. Add it to you celebrate today?
your vocabulary as Uncorked Wines and Spirits Limited
you add something
Fernandes Fine Wines
memorable to your
Vintage
wardrobe.
Dufry
Shoes and More
Birkenstock
ecliff elie
Ray Cool

44 Retail Therapy
Retail Therapy 45
 Malls Unlimited
North, South, East, West, Central… when it comes to shopping in Trinidad, cardinal points don’t
matter, as you’ll find top-of-the-line malls and shopping centres at all of them. Conveniently for
everyone, most malls also have large supermarkets, banks, gyms, medical and other services
onsite.
The western peninsula is home to some of the largest and most established shopping centres.
The Falls at Westmall has over 100 stores, and MovieTowne is more than a multiplex cinema; you
can enjoy shopping and fine dining, live entertainment at their Fiesta Plaza on weekends, and a
children’s playpark.
Still in the West, you can visit the Long Circular Mall, the Grande Dame of Trinidad shopping
centres, with floor upon floor of everything you desire. If it’s a sunny day and you feel like doing
your shopping en plein air, you can choose between Starlite Shopping Plaza in Diego Martin or
Ellerslie Plaza in Maraval.
Keep an eye out for Excellent Stores’ six locations; Excellent Stores is the largest department
store in T&T, offering a wide selection of home décor, small appliances, fitness products,
convenience items, toys, souvenirs, and more. Shop at any of their 6 locations throughout the
country or online at www.excellentstorestt.com
Heading east, your first big stop is The City of Grand Bazaar: acres of open air shopping with an
exotic, Middle Eastern theme. A stone’s throw away is the Valpark Shopping Plaza, and just a few
kilometres further east, Trincity Mall, arguably the largest mall in the English-speaking Caribbean.
South-bound, stop off in Central at MovieTowne located at Price Plaza, Chaguanas, or visit
the two newest outdoor shopping malls, Heartland Plaza and Xtra Plaza situated nearby, as well
as Centre Point Mall and the Mid Centre Mall. Round off your journey at Gulf City in La Romaine
and Pennywise Complex, or the country’s newest arrivals, the C3 Centre and Southpark, off the
Solomon Hochoy highway.
The biggest problem with mall shopping in Trinidad isn’t “Are there any,” but “However are you
going to hit them all?”

46 Retail Therapy
 C3 Centre
C3 Centre, “C3” is Trinidad & Tobago’s newest world-class shopping and entertainment
destination. With over 650,000 square feet, it is one of the largest malls in the region,
owned and developed by Corinthia Development Limited. Designed to be a complete
family experience, C3 has the widest offering of shopping, health, entertainment, dining
and conference options that is unrivalled; all in one convenient location along the Sir
Solomon Hochoy Highway in Corinth, San Fernando.
C3 is built in a unique architectural style that is both ultra-modern range from Zumba, Cross Fit, Aerobics, and for all those adventurous
and multi-faceted to incorporate all our offerings. The beautiful and daring, they have the tallest rock climbing wall in the region.
architecture is very noticeable with its high ceilings, multiple skylights Shopping is definitely not an afterthought, C3 has over 120 stores
and a mixture of both indoor shopping and Courtyard ambience. ranging from national chains including Excellent Stores,
Locally designed and constructed, C3 stands proud on the undulating The Home Store, Blaanix, Jebelle, Wonderful World, Sacha Cosmetics
hills of the former Corinth Sugar Estate and is a bold statement in and Micles, to international franchises including Aldo, Skechers,
the community that was the birthplace of one of the country’s most Häagen Dazs, Dairy Queen, Little Caesars and Burger King.
famous painters, Michel-Jean Cazabon, who was born on the estate Relax and dine at any one of the many restaurants such as
over two hundred years ago. Rizzoni’s, Ruby Tuesdays, La Cantina and 519 Bar or visit the food
With the largest supermarket in the Caribbean, JTA Supermarkets court with the widest variety of cuisine.
offer the widest variety at the best prices. Kids & the kid at heart can Convenient parking is a must and with two levels of underground
be entertained at Chuck E Cheese’s or visit New York at Movietowne; parking giving direct access into the mall, it is very convenient
with 9 screens inclusive of their VIP theatre, an out of this world and accessible. C3 has brought shopping and entertainment into
movie experience. Enjoy entertainment events in the Courtyard, from a unique and refreshing light and is opened every day, including
live bands, magic shows & many more! public holidays.
C3 is the home of Central Athletics Club. This state-of-the-art facility C3 is a safe, fun and exciting destination where every member of
is open 24 hours and includes daycare services. Fitness exercises the family will enjoy a rewarding and pleasurable experience. Come
and experience the only place to be, C3!
 ARTISAN
MARKETS
Great Food and Drink,
with Fabulous Bargains
By Roslyn Carrington

Farmer and artisan markets have become quite

the place to be on the weekends. Some markets
open weekly, some monthly, some annually,
but what they all have in common is the 'lime'.
Because it’s not only about the shopping, it’s
about the experience: the food, the music, the vibe.

Friends gather at places like the Green Market or
UpMarket to sit back and enjoy fresh-pressed juices, hand-
ground local coffee and chat.
And trust us, the eating’s good! Vendors are generous
with their samples, so you can make up your mind at leisure.
Go stall to stall and mix 'n match a three-course gourmet
meal with soup or salad, for starters; there are entrées
ranging from Caribbean to Arabic to Latin American to Italian
cuisine; and follow that up with a dessert of pastry, home-
churned ice cream or artisan chocolate from local estates.
Ever tried wine made from cashew fruit, pomerac or
pommecythère? You won’t regret taking home a bottle or
two. Look out for pastel-coloured macaroons or meticulously
hand-decorated cookies that are almost too cute to eat.
Browse among the tables for handmade treasures like
jewellery, clothing, or leathercraft, paintings, batik, stained
glass… wood carvings, silverware, beaten brass… children’s
toys, toiletries, local CDs.
Some markets, like the Green Market, host mini-lectures
on a range of topics from home gardening to recycling. If
you’re lucky you can catch demos on anything from pottery-
making to cocoa-dancing. You may also find charities, such
as foundations for children or cancer survivors, selling
unique items to raise funds, so you have the chance to
expand your mind and gladden your heart.
Markets abound throughout the year, so chances are
one will be open while you’re here. Check Facebook pages,
websites or the press for more details.
• UPMARKET — Once a month (more often closer to Christmas)
at the Woodbrook Youth Centre or Trinidad Country Club.
Tel: 703-2169 • Email: info@upmarketevents.com
• THE SAN ANTONIO GREEN MARKET —
Every Saturday and Sunday, Saddle Road, Santa Cruz.
Tel: (868) 221-9116 • Email: greenmarketbookings@gmail.com
• NAMDEVCO FARMERS’ MARKETS — Alternate weekends
at the Queen’s Park Savannah, and weekly at Point Fortin, Debe,
Chaguanas, Macoya and Diego Martin.
Tel: 645-9073 • Email: contact@namdevco.com
• UPICK TT (THE FARMACY) — Chaguaramas. You can pick
your own fresh fruit and vegetables, but remember to get the relevant
approvals if you want to transport plants abroad. Thursday to Sunday.
Tel: 271-2681 • Email: upicktt@gmail.com
• THE MONTHLY ARTS MARKET — Jerningham Avenue,
Belmont, Port of Spain
• THE EASTERN MARKET – JFK Auditorium, UWI,
St. Augustine, Tel: 726-2096 • Email: gypsymalltt@gmail.com
• THE SOUTH MARKET — Monthly at Naparima College,
San Fernando. Tel: 733-3772 • Email: southmarket.tt@gmail.com
• BITS AND PIECES FOR CHRISTMAS —
An annual event, first Saturday in November.
Tel: 681-8418 • Email: vanessadallacosta@yahoo.com.
• TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO MANGO FESTIVAL —
A celebration of all things mango! Annually every June/July.
Tel: 683-4251 • Email: communications@nrwptt.net

The Green Market and Ajoupa Pottery

Photos: Christopher Anderson and Sarah Carter

48 Retail Therapy
 In Season
Heavenly delights at the Mango Festival
By Roslyn Carrington

There’s an old folk song that goes, “I want a penny to buy

mango vert, mango teen/ Gimme a penny to buy
mango vert, mango teen… Savez-vous all for me!” And why not?

If there’s a tropical fruit more tempting, more decadent, more delectable than the mango, we haven’t come across it
yet. And with over 400 varieties of mango, any discussion about which is the best can end in heated debate. The Network
of Rural Women Producers of Trinidad and Tobago works closely with small and micro-enterprises owned or managed by
women, to empower and advance professional development. Each year, these ladies host the Mango Festival, an event
as inviting as it sounds. For mango lovers, it’s a treat for the senses, an intimate setting with a country-market feel where
browsing is welcome, and sampling encouraged. If your tastes run to the savoury, you can enjoy peppery mango chows,
chutneys and preserves. If sugar is your “jumbie”, you’re in luck! You may find mango smoothies, ice cream, liqueurs and
jams. Look out for mango leather, a sweet, chewy treat made from mango purée that looks like jerky and tastes like
heaven. The versatile mango, with its rich, creamy texture, is an ideal addition to beauty products. Here you can buy
softly scented mango soaps, lip balms and body butters. There are mango seedlings on sale, but if you’d like to
try growing one, ensure you find out the key requirements of the plant from the protection organisation in your
country. Call the T&T Plant Quarantine Department at (868) 625-3266 or the 24-hour-service at Piarco
International Airport on (868) 669-4860, or Crown Point at (868) 639-0634 or (868) 639-5582, for
assistance with certification. Best of all, there are bushels of mangoes to take home and eat on
the spot. And don’t be shy; peel them with your teeth and enjoy, like Trinis do!

The Mango Festival takes

place in June/July in
San Fernando

To truly appreciate Trinidad and Tobago is to spend a few minutes or hours admiring
the contemporary art of the twin islands, the world certainly has - one of the oldest
Society’s in the Caribbean is a good place to start.
The Trinidad and Tobago Art Society began with a select
group of revolutionary painters and writers. It was an era when
Caribbean people were looking towards independence, beyond
the boundary of colonialism towards creating a genuine,
probing aesthetic. Amy Leong Pang, Hugh Stollmeyer and Sybil
Atteck among others, were known as the Society of Trinidad
Independents - these were the pioneers of the movement.
According to the society’s website, they admired the works of
Gauguin, Modigliani and had a growing fascination with African
art. “Their metaphysical leanings found a ready response in
Shango – Baptist beliefs with strong echoes of Orisha in Benin.
The group ran afoul of a fundamentalist press whose vitriolic
attacks were partially responsible for the disintegration of the
body (after nine years) in 1938. Their pioneering visual work,
however, was to have a profound influence on the development
of art in Trinidad and Tobago...This led to the establishment
of the Trinidad Art Society in 1943, through the persistence of
Sybil Atteck, a biological draughtsman and watercolourist who
later studied under the German expressionist Max Beckman...
Within a decade their emergence as a formal organisation
began to bear fruit. Patronised by the British Council which for
some twenty years provided free studios, lecturers, books and
scholarships, the society maintained an ambitious programme
of classes and critiques.”
“Today, we are a society that’s an umbrella organisation for
all art forms and our members get exposure by being part of the
group exhibition held twice a year,” explained Acting President
(2017) Ronald Ramkissoon.
The non-profit institution in Federation Park, Port of Spain,
also hosts seminars and workshops for artists of varying
proficiencies including courses for beginners, intermediates and
50 Retail Therapy
Leaning
Towards
The Light
The Trinidad & Tobago
Art Society celebrates
75 years By Anna Walcott-Hardy
advanced level and its 200-plus members get an opportunity to
exhibit work in the group shows at the gallery.
Among its many venerated teachers at the art society, who
also trained with Atteck and Leong Pang, was the unassuming
Carlisle Chang. Born in San Juan in 1921, he was a highly respected
Carnival designer, sculptor and fine artist who died in 2001. An
extraordinary painter in oils, mixed media and watercolour, who
was influenced by cubism as well as local folk art and Amerindian
iconography, he always underscored how important being raised
in a multi-ethnic society was to his imagery and development
of his unique style. Over a 60 year span he also designed the
national flag and created several prophetic murals including the
now lost, ‘Inherent Nobility of Man’, which Geoffrey MacLean
described as “possibly the most important work of art in the
Caribbean.” Peter Minshall in an interview with Nicholas Laughlin
in Caribbean Beat magazine, explained eloquently that Chang
“was among the first to understand that this place is an incredible
laboratory of the New World, an orchid house where incredible
hybrids need to be nurtured”.
Last year there were several historic restrospectives from these
New World artists, including the final exhibition by Harry Bryden.
At 87, Bryden’s ‘A Journey Though The Past’ featured watercolour
and oil paintings from the family’s private collections as well as
limited edition prints. Another much-anticipated exhibition was
‘The Light In Paint’, featuring the works of master watercolourist,
Jackie Hinkson, also held at the Trinidad and Tobago Art Society.
The show was an insightful, sober rendering of plein-air painting
that captured the history and looked towards the future of Trinidad
and Tobago.
“What I know for sure is that art has played a significant role in
all societies in the history of man,”
Above: Tassa & Hosay II by Sundiata
Right: Immortelle, Bend In The Road by Harold Bryden
 St. Mary’s Estate by Jackie Hinkson

Hinkson stated recently about the integral importance of the

arts to the development of civilization. And yet Hinkson is just
one of the myriad of consequential artists who have helped
develop the arts, and in turn, The Trinidad and Tobago Art
Society.
Many philosophers agree that the true innovators in the arts
and sciences come from the periphery and often influence the
centre or metropolis. In Trinidad and Tobago, artists from M.P.
Alladin, Edward Bowen, Isaiah James Boodhoo, Chris Cozier to
Michel-Jean Cazabon, Carlisle Chang, Embah, Lisa O’Connor,
Sundiata and Peter Minshall among others, have been inspired
by the complex socio-political culture and landscape. Others
have come here to be inspired; in 2017, world renowned painter,
Peter Doig’s show in New York featured several iconic images of
Trinidad and as did the London show by Chris Ofili, the Turner Art 6 Gallery
award-winning artist. Doig spent many years of his childhood Art6 is an intersection between artist and collectors;
here and has spoken often of being inspired by the work of the Fostering a belief that everyone should be able to afford,
late painter/sculptor Embah. collect, learn, and live with art. We are happy to guide
For many, a Hinkson watercolour is of equal proficiency to artists looking to host their exhibitions. This opportunity
that of a John Cotman or Winslow Homer, it’s just that the world allows for gallery rentals, no commission added, free
curation, and assistance in building the artist’s social
has not made this discovery as yet. So go exploring, find those
media presence. Head over to our website, Facebook and
hidden treasures in the art of Trinidad and Tobago. If you want Instagram for updates on our exhibitions.
to truly understand the islands then view the works of these
artists in the galleries and on the streets. Hopefully, the Society Tel: (868) 220-ART6 / 491-1902
will expand into having a national gallery with a permanent Scott Street, St. Clair, Port-of-Spain.
collection that promotes the profound talent of the country. Email: Info@art6.gallery | www.art6.gallery

52 Retail Therapy
On Location Art Galleries
• Exhibitions • Original Art • Prints • Framing • Art design
• Consulting • Valuations • Printing Services. We harness
over 30 years of experience in Italy, the United Kingdom,
Canada and Trinidad to provide premium picture framing, local
art works and prints to Trinidad and Tobago. We have a wide
variety of artwork by both established and top emerging artists. Chi Studio
Two convenient locations; give us a call or come in today!
Blending a variety of techniques and creative styles, our
Tel (868) 622-3403
intimate two level gallery space offers collectors a wealth of
Address 42 De Verteuil St, Woodbrook
stimulating and valuable art, including paintings, sculptures
Tel (868) 633-3404
and wearable finds. CHI STUDIO is also a creative space
Address Unit #205, The Falls at West Mall
available to anyone wishing to exhibit, examine, develop,
Email onlocationartgalleries@gmail.com
shape, and teach ideas or skills. Here, we reinforce the
Facebook www.facebook.com/onlocationartgalleries
truth that art changes and challenges the minds of people.
www.onlocationartgallery.com

Retail Therapy 53
Photos: Andrea de Silva
Revive
&Rest o re By Roslyn Carrington
Yoga & the Great Outdoors
In Trinidad we have an expression — “Are you here for your
health?” — that’s jokingly asked of someone just lounging
around, eating great food and relaxing, without a care in the
world.
Well, we’re willing to bet that you are here for your health,
and the good news is that there are so many options for you to
choose from that you’ll surely be glowing when you return home.
Many gyms offer special discounted membership for short
stays, and apart from weight stations you’ll also find classes
such as spin, aerobics boot camps, and our home-grown Soca-fit
workouts. If you’re looking for guidance and support, the I’M
Wellness Centre on Long Circular Road is a great place to start.
If you’re into martial arts, there are several dojos around the
country. Strengthen your body with open-water swimming or a
few laps around the pool, or sneaker-up and go for a run around
our many parks and savannahs. The Queen’s Park Savannah is
a popular 3.7km circuit, and nearby Chancellor Hill, overlooking
the Emperor Valley Zoo, is a challenge.
54 Revive & Restore
Trail walking is another healthy option, and you can fall into
step with many hiking clubs online. Most hikes culminate in
lots of splash-time at a waterfall, river, or beach, although never
go hiking alone. Always travel with a reputable, certified hiking
group.
Another healthy option is yoga, in a class or solo. If your
timing is right you can even celebrate International Day of
Yoga with us in late June, with a group session at dawn at the
Chaguaramas Boardwalk .
Yoga is rewarding because it’s so individualistic; almost
every pose, or asana, has variations to suit different levels of
strength and flexibility. Yoga isn’t about trying to tie yourself into
knots… although it’s cool if you can. It’s about self-exploration,
relaxation, and gently pushing back your own limits.
Most of all, it’s about immersing yourself in the moment,
connecting to your breath, and fully experiencing the now in this
place of beauty and peace.
Namaste.
Health &
Beauty Oils
By Roslyn Carrington

Many will attest to the therapeutic benefits of a massage,

from decreasing anxiety to headache relief and overcoming
insomnia. Zahra Duncombe of Spa Essencia, located at the
Hyatt Regency Hotel in Port of Spain, says that most clients
visiting the spa seek these immediate benefits.
A good massage can reduce stress and in some cases
help to relieve the pain of sports injuries. Duncombe added
that the therapist giving the massage also reaps the physical
and emotional rewards of having helped heal someone. It’s
the yin and yang of health care.
Most spas in Trinidad offer a range of packages
depending on your budget, specific needs, and how much
time you have to spend. You can pop-in for a 15-minute
back-rub, an express half hour, or a luxurious therapeutic
hour-and-a-half of pampering.
Of course, any good massage is enhanced by a high-
quality oil, to help hands glide as they warm and soothe.
With its rich history and well-documented therapeutic
properties, coconut oil is always a popular
choice. Its use hails back to the local
tradition of jharay, an ancient
Indian healing massage still
practised in local villages.
Other beneficial oils include
sweet almond and olive.
The natural benefits
of these carrier oils
are enhanced with the
addition of essential oils,
whether commonplace or
esoteric, which transform
the simplest treatment
into a transcendental
experience. Essential oil
blends, Duncombe says, can be
tailored to a client’s needs, be they
physical or emotional.
For example, lavender has become one of the
world’s most popular essential oils for its ability to soothe
and calm. Rosemary, on the other hand, makes its presence
felt. It’s robust and invigorating, and, along with compatible
oils such as eucalyptus and peppermint, is often used
by those seeking relief from nasal and chest congestion.
Citrus oils wake us up; while frankincense, sandalwood and
chamomile bring calm and emotional balance; and ylang-
ylang, jasmine and rose are more sensual. So many choices.
A professional massage will always be easily available,
affordable, an instantly rewarding opportunity for self-care.
So, while you’re here take time to relax.

Revive & Restore 55

56 Revive & Restore
Phot
o:St
ephenJay Phot
ogr
aphy
S tunning Sights
of T r in ida d By Bavina Sookdeo

The spectacular view from the air before landing at the Piarco
International Airport gives you just a taste of some of the
incredible sights waiting to be explored. If you missed the view,
then be sure to take a trek to the Mount St Benedict Monastery
which is more than 100 years old and sits at 660 feet above sea
level. A visit to The Asa Wright Nature Centre, nestled in a forested
valley, will also give you a chance to see many species of birds,
mammals, butterflies, reptiles and amphibians. (asawright.org)

60 Get Out and About


And if you enjoy history, a visit to The Amerindian Museum,
Cleaver Woods, on the Eastern Main Road is recommended.
On October 13th 2017, for the first time, the heritage and
contributions of the First Peoples of T&T was celebrated with a
public holiday.
Port of Spain
Want more? The country’s capital, Port-of-Spain, is a must-
see, but you should put aside an entire day to explore. Take
a trip to The National Museum & Art Gallery which dates
back to 1892. The art galleries exhibit century-old works, over
10,000 pieces including paintings by master artists: Michel-
Jean Cazabon, Boscoe Holder, Donald ‘Jackie’ Hinkson and
Peter Minshall.
Woodford Square should be your next stop in Port-of-
Spain. A popular landmark (sometimes referred to as the
University of Woodford Square) it’s at this small park that the
nation’s first Prime Minister, Dr Eric Williams, spoke of his
dreams of independence for the then British colony. Many
historical and modern buildings are located around the
Square including: the Hall of Justice, Trinity Cathedral, City
Hall and the Red House.
Caroni Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Devan Mulchansingh
Inset: Gasparee Caves
Photo: Stephen Broadbridge
A quick walk north
and you will enjoy the
cool breezes of our lush
central park, the ‘world’s
largest roundabout’. The Queen’s Park Savannah is approximately
3.7km and 260 acres of flowering Poui and Immortelle trees
bordering landscaped fields where many Trinidadians play
games of football, rugby and cricket. You may relax on a bench,
munch on a delicious snow-cone or drink a cold coconut water
and take-in the view of the Magnificent Seven that includes
Queen’s Royal College (QRC), Roomor, Hayes Court, Mille
Fleurs, the Roman Catholic Archbishop’s Residence, White
Hall and Stollmeyer’s Castle. Also bordering the Savannah are
The Emperor Valley Zoo, the Botanical Gardens, Queen’s Hall
Theatre and The National Academy for the Performing Arts.
Close to Port-of-Spain is also the ‘city that never sleeps’ –
St. James. Much of the country’s history is reflected here, in the
name of its streets as well as the delicious street food of Roti and
Doubles, to the festivals and churches. Overlooking the Gulf of
Paria is Fort George which offers an awe-inspiring, panoramic
view of the north of Trinidad and the offshore isles. Built in the
1700s, the windy hilltop fortress is open to the public daily.
Get Out and About 61

There is so much
to discover in the
century-old Roman
Catholic Church of
St Vincent Ferrer
in Gran Chemin,
Moruga.
Above: Arima
Market
Below: Moruga RC Church
Inset: Columbus Monument
in Moruga
Photos: Christopher Anderson
62 Get Out and About
For those who love the sea, a trip “DDI”
or “Down the islands” is a quiet and
peaceful escape for many. The five islands
off Trinidad’s north coast – Chacachacare,
Huevos, Gasparillo (or Centipede Island),
Monos, and Gaspar Grande (aka Gasparee)
– are spectacular. You can also explore the
Gasparee caves and enjoy fishing, waterskiing
and boat 'limes' in the deep blue waters
off the coast. Tours are available at
www.destinationtnt.com.
On your way to the yacht club, make sure to
tour The Military & Aerospace Museum in
Chaguaramas, an area that once housed the
American Base during World War II. Over 500
years of war history including artefacts,
vehicles and artillery are on display. Another
major attraction for locals and tourists is
the Chaguaramas Boardwalk. This relaxing
walkway is always bustling with activity even
into the late hours of the night. Just a few
minutes away, you can enjoy zip lining over
the forest and Macqueripe Beach.
For further information and bookings visit
www.destinationtnt.com.
From April to July the protected leatherback
sea turtle nests on the north-eastern beaches
of Matura and Grande Rivière. It is indeed
a sight to behold and many from across the
country journey to the beaches just to catch a
glimpse of these gentle giants. Given the rarity
of nesting grounds worldwide, guidelines are
strict and a permit to view this protected
species is required from one of the Forestry
Division offices at San Fernando (call
868-657-9450), Sangre Grande (call
868-668-2518) or Port-of-Spain (call
868-622-3217).
On your return, you should visit St Augustine
where The Eric Williams Memorial Collection
can be viewed at The University of the West
Indies. The collection at the
Alma Jordan Library archives the late Prime
Minister, scholar, historian and educator,
Dr Eric Williams who led this country to
independence in 1962 and then, to becoming
a Republic in 1976. Open to the public on the
last two Saturdays of each month from 9:00
a.m. to 1:00 p.m. For reservations and further
information, contact The UWI Alma Jordan
Library at (868) 662-2002
Exts. 82132, 83506 or 83361.
Central Sights
Heading down to Chaguanas from the Piarco
International Airport a whole other world
awaits. Just off the Uriah Butler Highway is
The Caroni Bird Sanctuary. This is an area
of 15,000 acres of marshland, tidal lagoon
and mangrove trees. Many schools, bird
watchers and tourists visit to explore the dense
vegetation and wildlife. A cruise along the canal
takes you through the mangrove where snakes
are sometimes nestled on trees just above.
There are many species of fish, birds and even
caiman. A major attraction is the spectacular
return of the Scarlet Ibis on evenings to an
island in the swamp. Guides are available at
the entrance on Felicity Road and kayaks are
also available.
Further into Central Trinidad, standing in
all its might is the 85-foot Hanuman Murti
in Carapichaima. Hanuman is a Hindu god,
and the statue is said to be the largest of its
kind outside of India. The intricately designed
architecture and the temple’s pinkish tint,
along with the other neighbouring statues,
were built according to the Dravidian style of
south India.
Close by in Waterloo is the Indian Caribbean Lopinot Estate
Museum which houses artefacts, historical
The fertile cocoa estate
books, photographs and documents over a
century old. The Indian Caribbean Museum
near to Arouca is the
of Trinidad & Tobago (Tel: (868) 673 -7007 or former home of French
icmuseumtt@gmail.com). soldier Compte Josef
Another picturesque location is the Temple Charles de Lopinot de
in the Sea. The temple was initially built by
la Fresillière, presented
Siewdass Sadhu on land which belonged
to a sugar cane company. The temple was
with these lands in
destroyed but determined and persistent, 1806 by the British for
Sadhu reclaimed the land by hand, with a service in the war.
bucket, for 25 years. Today, the temple is
complete and still stands as proof of Sadhu’s Below: San Fernando
Photo: Maria Nunes
dedication, persistence and devotion. Inset: Lopinot Estate
A little further into the Central Range, be Photo: Aartie Gosine
sure to visit Our Lady of Montserrat Roman
Catholic Church which was designed by a
French priest and named by Spaniards (after
the Montserrat Hill on which it stands). This
Church has retained its original structure
since 1878. The church administration
can be contacted at (868) 650-0082
or 636-0769.
Gran Couva in Central Trinidad
also offers a very cool and
Get Out and About 63
 relaxing drive through many
cocoa estates, including the
picturesque La Vega Estate.
Transformed into a park
and garden centre, visitors
can relax in swimming
pools, fish in the lakes
and enjoy the greenery
of the countryside. Many
pilgrims travel to La Vega
Estate to visit the shrine
dedicated to the Divine
Mercy of Jesus. You can visit
www.lavegaestate.com to find
out more.

Southern Sights
So you’ve seen the northern and central range,
now it’s time to journey south to the Pointe-à-Pierre Wild
Fowl Trust where tour guides take you along the trails to
see the: Masked Cardinal, Osprey, yellow-headed Caracara,
yellow-blackbird, Wattled Jacana, black-crowned Night-
Heron, streak-headed Woodcreeper, purple and common
Gallinules. After the tour you can relax and have a picnic in
the park. Bookings must be made two days in advance. Call
(868) 658-4200 ext. 2512 or visit www.papwildfowltrust.org.
Next stop, the city of San Fernando to tour the many
historical buildings and of course travel to the San Fernando
Hill. Many events are held here and the view of the city
is incredible. It is open daily from 9am to 6pm. The San
Fernando Office of the Forestry Division can be contacted at
(868) 653-9563 and will provide further details.
A natural wonder, the La Brea Pitch Lake is one of the
country’s major tourist attractions. It is also the largest
natural asphalt lake in the world. This lake can be compared
to a bottomless pit having what seems like an endless
supply of asphalt. This asphalt is exported internationally.
Many visitors take a dip in the neighbouring sulphur lakes
which have been said to have healing properties. For further
information, call (868) 651-1232 and please use official
guides only indicated by red jerseys with the La Brea logo
and ‘Official Tour Guide’ on the back.
If you have the time and you’re in the Princes Town
area, be sure to visit the Devil’s Woodyard, a collection of
constantly erupting, mud volcanoes. This makes for a nice
family outing since picnic areas and sporting grounds are
available.
These are just some the many spectacular sights that
Trinidad has to offer on an isle that’s good for your soul and
spirit of discovery!

Above: Toco Lighthouse

Photo: Jason Sookermany
Inset: “Last Train to San Fernando”
Photo: Maria Nunes

64 Get Out and About

T&T Tourist Transport Service Association
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.
Tel (868) 623-4419
After 3:00 p.m. (868) 683-7934; Fax (868) 624-5016
Email touristtransport1@flowtrinidad.com | www.ttttsa.com
Angostura® Museum
The House of Angostura®, Trinidad and Tobago’s manufacturer
of world renowned products that include the famous Angostura®
aromatic bitters and award winning rums, offers tours to our
facilities that gives the visitor the history of the company from
inception in 1824. As an added bonus, visitors will be able to
view the world famous Barcant Butterfly Collection, started in
1921 by Malcolm Barcant and which boasts an impressive array
of over 700 butterflies.
Tel (868) 623-1841 ext 255
Address Cor. Eastern Main Road and
Trinity Avenue, Laventille, Trinidad, W.I.
Email rbetancourt@angostura.com (Ronda) | We’re on Facebook
Short Term Rentals
This option is especially attractive to those international visitors
who are looking for something professional and safe whilst they
travel to work or otherwise. The many benefits of the short-term
lease:
• 24/7 roadside assistance • Unlimited mileage
• Insurance • Airport pickup and drop-off
• Wide selection of vehicles.
Ask about our corporate long-term lease, our affordable Tobago
rentals and/or our weekly and monthly rates.
Tel (868) 687-1020 / 493-2867
Email econo_car@hotmail.com | Website econocar.rentals
Asa Wright Nature Centre
Located in Arima, 1200 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 1300 acres. It has celebrated 50 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 its
education programmes. A birder’s paradise that is family oriented.
Reservations are required, so call for details of accommodation,
daily tours, lunches, conferences and small events.
Tel (868) 667-4655 | Facebook /AsaWrightNatureCentre
Email reservations@asawright.org | www.asawright.org
Get Out and About 65
 National Museum & Art Gallery
of Trinidad and Tobago
Photo: Stephen Broadbridge

Museums
Our Unique History By Paul Hadden
Though some may be a bit off the beaten track, it’s worth the trip as there are a host
of museums in Trinidad which offer visitors a look into our unique history.

National Museum and Art Gallery
of Trinidad and Tobago
Originally established in 1892, the National Museum and
Art Gallery of Trinidad and Tobago is home to an impressive
collection of around 10,000 pieces of historical art. The museum
is located at the entrance of the city of Port-of-Spain, minutes
away from the beautiful Queen’s Park Savannah. The building
itself, originally known as the Royal Victoria Institute has seven
galleries: Art, Social History, Natural History, Economic History,
Petroleum and Geology. In addition, there is a small art gallery
dedicated to exhibiting the paintings of the famous Trinidadian
painter Michel-Jean Cazabon; as well as a small section
highlighting various aspects of the Carnival culture. The museum
is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10 am to 6pm.
www.nmag.gov.tt
Tel: 1 (868) 623 5941
Angostura Museum and
Barcant Butterfly Collection
Angostura is a name that is synonymous with quality rum as
well as its world famous aromatic bitters. A trip to the Angostura
Museum gives a glimpse into the history of the company’s
renowned products. The journey to international success for the
company began in a small town in Venezuela from which the
founders eventually migrated, to settle in neighbouring Trinidad.
A tour of the facility includes a visit to both the Angostura Rum
Distillery, where the acclaimed rum is created, as well as a
glimpse into the Bitters’ Manufacturing Room - the only place in
the world where the famous product is made!
Visitors are also given a chance to check out the Barcant
Butterfly Collection which boasts an impressive sample of over
8000 specimens of around 700 species of local butterflies.
Advanced booking is required for this museum. Visitors can
expect the tour to last around 2 hours.
http://themuseumathoa.trinidadeventspaces.com
Tel: 1 (868) 623 1841
Indian Caribbean Museum
The Indian Caribbean Museum was created to preserve the
heritage of the East Indian Indentured labourers who have
played an integral part in shaping the history and culture of
Trinidad and Tobago. The museum contains several artefacts

66 Get Out and About

 Chaguaramas Military Museum Indian Caribbean Museum Angostura Museum and
www.facebook.com/ www.icmtt.org Barcant Butterfly Collection
militarymuseumtt/ Tel/Fax: 1 (868) 673 7007 http://themuseumathoa.trinidadeventspaces.com
Tel: 1 (868) 634 4391 Tel: 1 (868) 623 1841

which help to tell the story of the original labourers who
made their way to Trinidad to work on the plantations after
the abolition of slavery. One of the museum’s highlights is an
authentic recreation of a traditional ‘Tapia house’ which the
labourers modelled after houses in north-eastern India. The
museum is located near to the historic Temple in the Sea in
Waterloo, as well as the magnificent Temple which houses the
largest statue of Lord Hanuman to be found outside of India.
Admission is free of charge.
www.icmtt.org
Tel /Fax: 1 (868) 673 7007
The University of the West Indies
Zoology Museum
Located on the St. Augustine campus of The University of
the West Indies, this zoological museum is home to the largest
collection of animal specimens in Trinidad and Tobago. The
museum’s mission is “to collect, preserve, document, and
display the fauna” of these twin islands, yet visitors can expect
to see a wide range of indigenous specimen as well as those
from the neighbouring Caribbean and South American mainland.
The collection has been growing steadily since 1920 and now
hosts close to 70,000 specimens of preserved animals.
www.sta.uwi.edu/fst/lifesciences/zoology.asp
Tel: 1 (868) 662 2002
Central Bank Money Museum
A look into the socio-economic history of Trinidad and Tobago
will allow visitors insight into the intriguing colonial heritage of
the islands. Focusing on all things money related, this museum
will take visitors back to the first system of trade and currency
used by the Amerindians, right up to the modern role of the
Central Bank in regulating the financial affairs of the country.
There is also a gallery dedicated to the global history of money
which includes various representations of money from around
the world including samples of cowrie shells, gold bars, and
various paper monies. An educational experience right in the
heart of the financial district of Port of Spain.
www.central-bank.org.tt/node/23
Tel: 1 (868) 621 2288

Sparrow Exhibition: Division of Culture Angostura Museum and Cricket Heritage Museum
Rain-o-rama – Ms. Valerie Green Barcant Butterfly Collection www.qpcc.com
Tel: 1 (868) 632 8564 / 1 (868) 740 3451 http://themuseumathoa.trinidadeventspaces.com Tel: 1 (868) 622 3787
Tel: 1 (868) 623 1841

Get Out and About 67

 The Oilbird
Cave Dwellers By Jason Radix
The only nocturnal fruit-eating bird in the world is the Oilbird
(Steatornis caripensis). Limited in its distribution to only a
few parts of northern South America and Trinidad, it is one of
over 480 documented bird species recorded for this country.
Also unique for its gregarious cave dwelling habits, and known
to occur in eight remote colonies in Trinidad and the northerly
offshore island of Huevos; it is a must-see species for Bird-
Watchers and nature lovers alike.
A relatively large brown and white spotted bird with a wing
span of 42 inches and length of 18 inches, it is one of the larger
members of the Caprimulgifomes Order, and the only member of
its family, Steatornithidae.
Unlike other nocturnal birds such as owls, Nightjars and Night
Hawks (not bats), all of which are predators, this fructivore feeds
exclusively on the fruit of various types of palms, incenses and
laurels species. This fatty diet, combined with low predation
and a long gestation period allows the young unfledged bird
to become overweight; often reaching 50% heavier than the
adult. Native tribes favoured the young birds for their fat which
liquefies into oil once the bird is boiled, hence the name Oilbird.
68 Get Out and About
The species’ native Amerindian name is “Guacharo”
(the one that wails and moans) possibly influenced by its
snarling call, and “Diablotin” (little devil) perhaps inspired
by the birds preference for living in perpetual darkness.
As a cave dwelling and nocturnal species it is possible
that most visitors and local wildlife enthusiasts will never
see this bird, which also flies high and over long distances
to forage. The best opportunity to witness this natural
wonder is to visit one of these remote colonies during the
day while the birds roost. The most accessible spot is at
Dunston’s Cave, located at the Asa Wright Nature Centre.
Visits are restricted, short and offered only twice a week
to guests of the facility so as to limit disturbance. Other
sites include the Aripo and Cumaca caves, which require
qualified guides and/or hike leaders; while visiting the
colonies on Huevos Island requires a boat guide and
favourable tidal conditions.
Visitors wishing to discover this peculiar and sensitive
bird, be aware that it is a protected species and requires a
conservative ethic during visits.
 The best
opportunity to witness
this natural wonder is to
visit one of these remote
colonies during the day while the
birds roost. The most accessible
spot is at Dunston’s Cave,
located at the Asa Wright
Nature Centre.

Photos: Christopher Anderson

 Day Tour
Escapade By Bavina Sookdeo

One day is never enough to explore the ins and

Hanuman Murti
Photo: Jason Sookermany
outs of this lush, cosmopolitan country, but for
those with limited time here’s a day trip that’ll
awaken the senses and spirit. If you’re staying near
to the airport in Piarco or environs you can start
your travel at 9 am. and arrive at your destination
in just an hour.

The Temple In the Sea

Originally built by Siewdass Sadhu on land which belonged to a sugar cane
company, the temple was destroyed, but determined and persistent, Sadhu
reclaimed the land by hand, using just a bucket for the next 25 years. Today,
the new temple is complete and still stands as proof of Sadhu’s dedication
and devotion.

The statue of Hanuman

Temple In The Sea
Photo: Jason Sookermany
A short drive away is the monumental 85-foot Hanuman Murti in
Carapichaima. Hanuman is a Hindu god and the statue is the largest of its
kind outside of India. The intricately designed architecture of the nearby
pink-tinted temple, along with the other statues, were built according to the
Dravidian style of south India.

Our Lady of
Montserrat RC Church
Photo: Stephen Brodgbridge
Inset: Dattatreya Temple
Photo: Stephen Jay Photography
 La Vega Estate
Photos: Stephen Jay Photography
Indian Caribbean Museum
The Indian Caribbean Museum in Waterloo is your next stop.
Here, Indian indentureship and heritage are preserved through
books, artefacts, and documents over a century old. The tour is
very informative and lasts just 45 minutes.
La Vega
Next stop is the lush gardens of La Vega Estate in Gran Couva.
Just 30 minutes from the Museum in Waterloo and the landscape
along the way is stunning with views of cocoa estates and green-
blue hills. Here you can discover many species of plants, relax
in the water park or picnic by the lake. Be sure to visit the shrine
dedicated to the Divine Mercy of Jesus.
Our Lady of Montserrat
Just a fifteen minute drive and you can explore the elegant
architecture of Our Lady of Montserrat RC Church which was
designed by a French priest and named by Spaniards after the
Montserrat Hill on which it stands. This Church has retained its
original structure since it was built in 1878.
Debe
The drive to your next spot is about an hour so you may
want to stop for a quick bite. The perfect spot for a late
lunch or afternoon tea is the town of Debe, where you can
enjoy a wide variety of treats from local vendors including
delicious Doubles and Saheena.
La Divina Pastora
La Divina Pastora, here we come!
The drive to the church is approximately 35 minutes from
Debe. Many tourists visit this historic church which brings
religions together to worship and celebrate. The saint, La
Divina Pastora, is believed to grant wishes, so make yours
a special one.
Heading Home
After a day of touring it’s time to head back to the hotel,
relax and re-live the memories of the day, and enjoy
photos and souvenirs collected along the way.
Get Out and About 71
 BEACH MORE
worry less
Las Cuevas
A scenic drive along the north coast road
will bring you to Las Cuevas, named for the
small caves that bound both sides of this
spectacular bay. A world within a world, apart
from the colourful pirogues at the small fishing
village along the east side, there is the sleepy
Cuaraguate River that flows in the west end, the
leafy sand runners and almond trees nearby and
steep cliffs that make the miles of bleached sand
and blue-green waters a wonderful discovery.
Photo: Jason Sookermany
By Anna Walcott-Hardy
Macqueripe
At the foothills of the north coast, this sheltered
bay in Chaguaramas is nestled between forested
promontories. Snorkelling and scuba diving are
popular along the fringe reef, but swimmers in
the blue waters should be careful as the sea bed
is uneven and suddenly becomes quite deep.
Although usually calm, the sea can be rough
from April to November. Parking is available and
zip-lining can be done nearby, but take your time
walking down the steps to the beach.
Photo: Christopher Anderson
Mayaro
A popular holiday retreat, many enjoy bathing
in the waters, which may be deep green
because of the impact of Venezuela’s Orinoco
River. Bordered by hundreds of coconut palms,
with fronds constantly blowing in the breeze,
the bay stretches for many kilometres. The
ochre sands gently slope to waters that can
at times be dangerous, with rip tides and
strong longshore currents, as well as sea floor
depressions, so take care.
Photo: Robert Ramkissoon

Grande Rivière
Off the lush Paria Main Road, a couple miles from
the bridge that crosses the Grande Rivière River, is
this wide, undulating beach that’s over a kilometre
long. It’s a popular, protected nesting ground for the
impressive Leatherback turtle (Demorchelys coriacea)
that returns annually to our coastal waters from March
to August. Permits are required from the Forestry
Division and tour guides are stationed at the Visitors
Centre if you wish to see this incredible event
Photo: Stephen Jay Photography
Columbus Bay
Along the West coast of the island, lies
this expansive beach, nestled between
Los Gallos and Corral Point, with views
of mainland Venezuela on a clear day.
There is a coconut plantation on the
upper end of the beach and a small
wetland at the centre of the bay. The
arresting stacks of monumental rocks
out at sea, add to the seascape.
Photo: Jason Sookermany
Photo: Richard Lyder
Maracas
That this is one of the most popular bays on the island
is not surprising because the windy 1.8 km beach
with its bleached sand, lined with coconut palms and
almond trees, is stunning. The white-capped breakers
are impressive and can reach as high as 1.5 metres so
take care. Hugged by headlands with a picturesque
river and fishing village to the west, you must try the
trademark Maracas shark and bake sandwich or a tasty
corn soup on your way home. There are parking lots,
washrooms and lifeguards stationed during the day.
Photo: Patricia Lewis
Waterfalls
galore By Anna Walcott-Hardy

Three Pools
An easy 30-minute hike from Spring Bridge,
Blanchisseuse, along the Marianne River will take
you upstream to the waterfall. The river runs
over a steep escarpment to the three cascading
pools, creating a natural waterslide. The imposing
rocks, jade basins and wading pools ensure a
spectacular day for the entire family.

Paria
A challenging eight-mile hike over undulating
terrain is worth the trip when you arrive at the
serene beauty of Paria Beach and the nearby
waterfall. Along the way there are panoramic
hilltop views of the sea and if lucky, you may
spot turtles swimming in the crystal-clear waters
below. The refreshing, pristine falls are lined with
blooming tropical flowers including lilies and
heliconias.

Blue Basin
Nestled in River Estate, Diego Martin, just a
15-20 minute drive from the capital, the Blue Basin
waterfall lives up to its name, with a 298-foot
cascade into deep cobalt pools of refreshing water.
Guided tours are recommended to the waterfall –
whether on foot or bike.

Turure
It’s a one of a kind destination in Cumaca, as
the water from the Turure River dramatically falls
over a series of limestone outcrops. A moderate
30-minute hike through the forest takes you to the
steps, some spanning the width of the river, often
as wide as 50 feet and as high as 25 feet. The
wading pools are like a natural Jacuzzi, the
falls refreshingly cold and crystal clear.

Edith Falls
In the Chaguaramas Valley a 30-minute
hike just off the road to the Golf Club
through a cocoa estate will take you to this
three-tiered waterfall. Along the way you
may be fortunate to see a Howler monkey or
green-parrot in the trees before you arrive at
the 250 foot waterfall that’s most impressive in
the Rainy Season.
Blue Basin
Photo: Christopher Anderson
Inset: Rappelling at Avocat Waterfall
Photo: Edison Boodoosingh
 Hyatt Regency Trinidad
Situated in the heart of downtown Port of Spain on the waterfront, the
newly renovated Hyatt Regency Trinidad sets the standard for a new level
of comfort, service and convenience among Trinidad hotels. The upgraded
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, provides 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. WiFi is
complimentary to all our guests.
Tel (868) 623-2222 Fax (868) 821-6401
Address 1 Wrightson Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
Reservations trirt.reservation@hyatt.com
Facebook facebook.com/hyattregencytrinidad
Twitter @HyattTrinidad Instagram Hyatttrinidad
trinidad.regency.hyatt.com

Tradewinds Hotel
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 Driftwood Restaurant, our
newly opened Bottles & Bites Sushi Restaurant & Bar, conferencing,
mini-mart, gym with state-of-the-art equipment and instructors on site and
swimming pool. Only 800 metres away from Caribbean Cinemas 10/ South
Park Shopping Plaza.

Tel (868) 652-9463

Address 36-38 London Street, St. Joseph Village,
San Fernando, Trinidad
Email delia@tradewindshotel.com
www.tradewindshotel.com

Kapok Hotel
Ideally located, minutes away from Port of Spain, banks, embassies,
medical institutions, malls, the Queen’s Park Savannah and 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 WIFI, 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
with code INS&OUTS for the best rate guaranteed.
Tel (868) 622-KPOK (5765)
Address 16-18 Cotton Hill, St. Clair, Trinidad
Email stay@kapokhotel.com | Facebook facebook.com/
kapokhoteltrinidad | Instagram @kapokhotel | www.kapokhotel.com

78 Stay A While
 The Normandie Hotel
The Normandie Hotel is a boutique hotel designed by one of Trinidad’s
most acclaimed architects, John Newel Lewis, 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!
Tel (868) 624-1181-4 (868) 387-1244
Address 10 Nook Avenue, St. Ann's, Port of Spain,
Trinidad, West Indies
Email reservations@normandiett.com
www.normandiett.com

Courtyard By Marriott
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. The 119 spacious 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.

Tel (868) 627-5555

Fax (868) 627-6317
Address Invader’s Bay, Audrey Jeffers Highway,
Port of Spain, Trinidad
www.courtyardportofspain.com

Le Grand Almandier
Located 88km 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.

Tel (868) 670-1013/2294 Fax (868) 670-2294

Address 2 Hosang Street, Grande Rivière, Trinidad
Email info@legrandalmandier.com
www.legrandalmandier.com

80 Stay A While
 Royal Hotel
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, 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!

Tel (868) 652-4881

Address 46-54 Royal Road, San Fernando, Trinidad
Email info@royalhoteltt.com
www.royalhoteltt.com

CrewsInn Hotel and Yachting Centre

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”.
46 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.

Tel (868) 607-4000 (option 2)

Fax (868) 634-4175
Address Point Gourde, Chaguaramas, Trinidad, West Indies
Email inquiries@crewsinn.com
www.crewsinn.com

Acajou Hotel
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.

Tel (868) 670-3771

Fax (868) 670-4566
Address Grande Rivière, Trinidad
Email info@acajoutrinidad.com
www.acajoutrinidad.com

82 Stay A While
Stay A While 83
Carnival Medea
Photo: Maria Nunes
 Life in Mo tio n By Anna Walcott-Hardy

Trinidad and Tobago has a legacy and great love of dance,

from the traditional Bélé to the Tobago Jig and Reel, Congo
Belle, jharoo or Carnival “wine”. But you can’t talk about
dance without recognising the profound contribution made
by the unassuming Noble Douglas. The national award-
winner has taught generations of professional dancers,
inspired scores of choreographers and developed a
poignant repertoire.
COCO Dance
Photo: Nadine Eversley
Inset: Noble Douglas
Photo: Maria Nunes

Having taken ballet and music lessons from the age of eight,
Douglas grew up in Woodbrook, the youngest of six children in
a close knit family. Her father was a pharmacist and her mother
a florist and caterer with a love of music and the arts. Douglas
trained at the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance in
New York and then at the London College of Dance and Drama.
She was the first to introduce the Graham technique to Trinidad
and Tobago, and was inspired by stalwarts like Beryl McBurnie.
She also worked and toured with the Alvin Ailey American Dance
Company. Over the years, Douglas has collaborated with Andre
Largen, Peter Minshall, Derek Walcott and Wendell Manwarren
and her alumni can be found in some of the best dance
companies in the world.
At her studio on Petra Street, Woodbrook, a few miles away
from Carlos Street where she grew up, toddlers, teens and
professional dancers unlatch the gate and walk along the
pathway to the back of her house to an elegant, open-air studio
to attend classes at the dance and theatre school. Here, she
also leads a renowned dance company, as well as the award
winning Lilliput Theatre Company that produces a show each
year at the Queen’s Hall, St. Ann's, featuring dance and theatre
performances inspired by the Lilliput Children’s Carnival Band,
designed by Meryl Mahabir.
In 2017, the Noble Douglas Dance Company Inc produced
another critically acclaimed annual production, Vanishing
Pointe, that featured new works including Delton Frank’s ‘Boy
and Girl Ordeal – Bago’ as well as moving tribute by Jeffrey
Carter to the Hall’s dedicated stage manager, the late Todd Hill.
Dave Williams, senior dancer with NDDCI lauded Douglas for her
creativity, generousity and tenacity and explained why he thinks
she’s been able to achieve so much in her lifetime.
“Persistence. She’s there and remains there in an environment
that’s not really conducive to the Arts. To have that stamina, that
value and persistence that it can be done.”
Williams and Sonja Dumas co-founded the COCO Dance
Festival, a contemporary collective that has collaborated
over the past ten years with choreographers locally and
internationally from the USA, Spain and Cuba, among others,
to network, host outreach workshops in local communities
as well as study-abroad programmes. For the show in 2017,

Noble Dance Company

Photo: Maria Nunes

86 Be Entertained
Williams and Dumas worked with Danza
Contemporanea the national contemporary TRINIDAD THEATRES
dance company of Cuba and assisted with
Alice Yard Little Carib Theatre
workshops held by Fleur Darkin, the artistic 80 Roberts Street, Corner of White and Roberts Streets
director of the Scottish Dance Theatre in her Woodbrook, Port of Spain Woodbrook, Port of Spain
commission to mount a new piece on the Email: helloaliceyard@gmail.com Phone: (868) 622-4644
Cuban company, an exchange facilitated by Website: www.aliceyard.org Email: littlecarib@gmail.com
the British Council.
Big Black Box Naparima Bowl
Growing up in Trinidad, Williams always 33 Murray Street, 19 Paradise Pasture,
had a real “fascination with dance” and was Woodbrook, Port of Spain San Fernando
inspired by the Best Village performances he Email: bookbigblackbox@gmail.com Phone: (868) 652-4704
saw on TV, as well as on stage, by Douglas
and Astor Johnson. He also admired the CLR James Auditorium National Academy for the
work of Alvin Ailey, Reggie Wilson and
Cipriani Labour College Performing Arts (NAPA)
Churchill Roosevelt Highway 119 Frederick Street,
the creative genius of Peter Minshall and Phone: (868) 665-5014 Port of Spain
is focused on continuing to develop the Phone: (868) 623-2375 ext 3003
artform. Central Bank Auditorium Email: napabookings@napatt.org
“One of the things about dance and art in Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad is whether we remain relevant and
Corner of St Vincent Street & Queen’s Hall
Wrightson Road, Port of Spain 1-3 St. Ann’s Road,
have an effect with the society and connect, Phone: (868) 623-0845 St. Ann’s, Port of Spain
and realise that the society needs art for our Website: www.central-bank.org.tt Phone: (868) 624-1284/621-2911
own wellness.” Southern Academy for the
NDDCI and COCO Dance annual dance Learning Resource Centre Performing Arts (SAPA)
The University of the West Indies (UWI) Todd Street, San Fernando
shows are a must-see in October every year
St Augustine Phone: (868) 657-4380
– visit them on Facebook to learn more. Phone: (868) 662-2002 ext 82340
Email: learning.resource@sta.uwi.edu

Belmont Freetown
Cultural Arts and Folk
Performing Company
Inset: Sharon Navarro
performing with
National Steel
Symphony Orchestra
Photos: Maria Nunes

Be Entertained 87
 Fiesta Plaza, MovieTowne
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 mix 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.

Tel (868) 627-8277

Email fiestaplaza@movietowne.com | movietowne.com
Address MovieTowne, Audrey Jeffers Highway, Port of Spain

VIP Platinum Cinema and

Lounge, MovieTowne
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
welcomed. 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.
Tel (868) 627-8277
Email vipplatinum@movietowne.com | movietowne.com
Address MovieTowne, Audrey Jeffers Highway, Port of Spain

C Spot Sip n Paint Studio

Unleash your Creative Soul and share a unique and memorable fun time
together. CSpot Sip n Paint offers painting sessions that are fun, easy
and entertaining. We cater to corporate as well as private, all ages and
the ability to paint is not a factor. Perfect for date night, girls night out,
bachelorette parties, birthday/anniversary parties and team building/
bonding sessions. It’s 90% fun and 10% art.
Sessions run from Tuesday - Saturday and some Sundays.
Morning: 9/10:00 a.m. - 12noon/1:00 p.m.
Afternoon: 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Evening: 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Tel (868) 235-3624 / 620-8927 / 688-3335

Email mycspot.tt@gmail.com
2 Broome Street, St Clair, Trinidad, W.I.
FB: CSpotSipandPaint IG: cspot_sip_paint

88 Be Entertained
 Five Islands Amusement Park
The first ever theme park has finally reached our shores, Five Islands
Amusement Park located in the beautiful Chaguaramas peninsula. This
is what Trinidad has been waiting for! There is something for everyone –
thrilling Rides that take flight, a go-cart track, an ice skating rink, a surf
simulator, a trampoline park, an obstacle Ropes course and a massive
indoor arcade with exciting attractions. We welcome the rest of the World
to experience our Amusement Park with our warm Caribbean charm.
The highly anticipated Water Park will soon be added to the Five Islands
entertainment mix!
COME PLAY at Five Islands Amusement Park!

Tel (868) 612-PARK (7275)

Email info@5islandspark.com
Western Main Road, Chaguaramas, Trinidad, W.I.
5islandspark.com

Liquid Adrenalin
Experience a range of exciting water sports in the balmy waters of the
Gulf of Paria. We provide sessions for wakeboarding, water skiing, wake
surfing, standup paddleboarding and more. Or learn to fly the exciting
Dolphin Board. Professional instruction and equipment included. Great for
small groups and conveniently located in Cocorite. We are Water Sports!

Tel (868) 779-6647/704-5099

Email liquidadrenalintt@gmail.com
Facebook www.facebook.com/liquidadrenalintt
www.liquidadrenalin.com

Harry’s Water Park

At Harry’s Water Park we offer a variety of fun activities for people of
different age groups. Special attractions include: Paddle and peddle
boats, adults and children kayaking, fishing, wild life, nature trail,
swimming pools complete with water slide, sheds for liming and outdoor
cooking, cabins and conference area, kids play park, a well-stocked bar
and food court, guest rooms and many more fun-filled activities. HARRY’S
WATER PARK… The number one place that brings family and friends closer
together!

Tel/Fax (868) 798-0049 / (868) 466-9748

Address 160 Tabaquite Road, Rio Claro, Trinidad, W.I.
Email harryswaterparktt@yahoo.com
Facebook Harry’s Water Park
harryswaterparktt.com

90 Be Entertained
 Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival
Green Days by the River By Anna Walcott-Hardy

Built in 1861 as a reception hall for Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, the Princes Building
was the place to be for social galas and parties, until the building was destroyed by fire in
1979. Here, the first moving pictures were shown in Trinidad and those who could afford
the four shillings were mesmerized by the rapid stop-motion images. So it was more
than appropriate that the Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival, ttff, launched the premier of
‘Green Days by the River’ at this historic site, now home to NAPA.
Based on the 1967 novel by Michael Anthony, ‘Green Days talented Michael Mooleedhar. The film takes on the age-old
by The River’, is a coming-of-age story of a young boy, Shell, rivalry between dependency and liberation, innocence and
played with great complexity by the handsome and hugely avarice, all quietly, slowly unravelling the tale until it moves to an
talented Sudai Tafari. The story is of young love, lust, prejudice all too familiar end.
and betrayal, all played out in the fishing village of Mayaro in ‘Green Days’ was one of the 15 films in development that was
the 1950s, when Trinidad was still a British colony but moving part of the Caribbean Film Mart in 2015. Over 120 films were
towards independence, not unlike the struggles facing the screened last year at the Festival, as well as writer’s workshops
young Shell. There is the age-old battle for the spirit of the and select Q&A with directors from Trinidad and Tobago and
young boy by his Pa (Che Rodriguez), and the farmer, Gidharee the Caribbean. In 2017, there were five full-length feature films
(Anand Lawkaran), the uncovering of life in the country, where and 34 short films, many award-winners including, Maya
the realities of poverty, prejudice and institutional neglect, Cozier’s ‘Short Drop’, Oliver Milne’s ‘Salty Dog’ and Kevin Bhall’s
are buried beneath the veneer of palm trees, lush forests and animated short, ‘Temple by the Sea’.
sand-blasted beaches. Visually rich and carefully edited, the “Michael Mooleedhar’s ‘Green Days by the River’ and Vashti
screenplay thrives on contrasts and although not as subtly Anderson’s Moko Jumbie – are well crafted and beautifully shot
evocative as the novel, it certainly draws you in. Scenes like and are stories about T&T told through a local voice,” Festival
the Discovery Day party where young Shell enjoys dancing founder and director, Dr. Bruce Paddington explained in a recent
the foxtrot and mambo, yet slowly succumbs to excess and press interview. “Caribbean cinema is poised to take off. We
ultimately has a fateful night, are elegantly directed by the have to work together as a nation to ensure that it happens.”

Be Entertained 91
Bright
Lights
Big City Drama
By Sheldon Waithe

When you’re dubbed one of the world’s cities that

never sleeps, you have a lot to live up to; and in Trinidad
you'll find a dynamic theatre scene that more than lives
up to its reputation and is truly alive and kicking.

The Little Carib Theatre has been providing the platform for performers since 1947;
every conceivable manner of art form has graced its stage, from award-winning plays to
hard rock concerts, diversity remains its strength. This cornerstone of Caribbean culture
exists on a corner, White and Robert Streets in Woodbrook.
The Kaiso Blues Cafe is always abuzz with an eclectic musical mix that reflects its name
and an ambience that sets the tone for artistic appreciation. It’s ‘Unplugged’ series is
extremely popular, as are the jazz sessions at 85 Woodford Street, Port of Spain.
Nearby, on Robert Street, Woodbrook, Alice Yard offers an informal blend of indoor
and outdoor spaces for several events - from art exhibitions to poetry readings.
Recently, the stilt walking tutorials for budding Moko Jumbies as well as the Rapso
artist sessions have become favourites.
Murray Street’s Big Black Box in Woodbrook, welcomes you with its White Room,
home to many an art and photo exhibition. The venue hosts fashion shows,
an ever-popular open mic night and the thoroughly entertaining Poetry Slam
duels. Its culture is very interactive, with patrons turning the seating area into
a dance floor; such is the infectiousness of the performances.
Next on stage........who knows?!
You’ll have to visit to find out.

All the venues have their events

listed on their Facebook pages

Top: Alicia Jagassar in concert

Bottom: Bocas Lit Fest
Photos: Maria Nunes
 "... you sit
alone writing and
never really know if
it is going to touch
anyone, mean
anything.”
meet a Trini
Ingrid Persaud
Commonwealth Short Story Prize Winner
By Joel Henry
“I am a Trini to the bone in spite of not having lived
there for a long time, I take the best of our culture—the
expressive language, the humour, and I try to give it
voice.”
That expressive language and humour, coupled with
a moving narrative made Persaud the overall winner of
the 2017 Commonwealth Short Story Prize. Her story,
‘The Sweet Sop’, bested over 6,000 entrants from 49
countries.
Persaud, who grew up in San Fernando in South
Trinidad, was an only child: “I was brought up by a highly
educated, hardworking single mother. She taught me the
value of a good education. Without siblings to pester I
sank into the world of fiction.”
Persaud went on to become a legal scholar at the
prestigious Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in the
US and then to King’s College, London. She is also an
accomplished fine artist whose work has been exhibited
in Barbados and the UK.
Prior to her Commonwealth Prize win she completed
her first novel in 2014, ‘If I Never Went Home’. The
book received outstanding reviews and was selected
for a silver medal for multicultural fiction at the 2014
Independent Publisher Book Awards. Frank Birbalsingh,
Professor Emeritus of English at York University praised
the publication, calling it “simply brilliant: a debut novel
not far behind ‘Miguel Street’.”
Her two households include a husband, twin sons aged
17, two dogs and a feral chicken. “When our twins were
about six we moved from London (to Barbados) to give
94 Feature
them a chance at a proper childhood. But we are lucky and
have managed to keep our London place and so can go
back and forth. I take the best of both worlds. When I am
in London I make maximum use of theatre, music, talks,
etc and in Bim I enjoy the quiet to write and the amazing
sea.”
‘The Sweet Sop’, a story of a man bonding with
his estranged, dying father while supplying him with
chocolate, is humorous and engaging. “This is not based
on any real life experience but I draw on the experience of
caring for someone who is terminally ill and the deaths of
people close to me,” she adds. “I want to understand how
to die and make it a good experience. We all have to do it
sometime, yet we never want to have that conversation, as
if the mere mention of it will bring us closer to it.”
Persaud is closing in on the end of her second novel,
the story of a young man and his mother on a journey of
self-discovery. But focusing on that “hides the weird bits
that go with the journey” she adds. “I old – I have to hurry
up and write.”
When asked about her themes she mentions “what it
means to belong; home, loss”. But she is quick to point out
that themes are “big words that hide real stories. I don’t
think in terms of themes. I think in terms of stories.”
Of her awards she says: “It has been incredible. I have
met the other regional winners. And it has given me a little
profile so I have the confidence to show my work to others.
Yes—the confidence thing has been a big plus because
you sit alone writing and never really know if it is going to
touch anyone, mean anything.”
UWI DCFA
“Jab Jabs” fight it out at The Old Yard
Photo: Aneel Karim

The World’s a Stage By Joel Henry

For lovers of the arts in Trinidad and Tobago,

“back to school” has a special meaning
– outdoor concerts, theatre
productions, dance and art. Every
year The University of the West
Indies’ Department of Creative
and Festival Arts (DCFA)
produces a full calendar of
activities. These events are
imagined and performed by
some of T&T’s most gifted
students and teachers. Musical Arts
programme in concert
Founded more than three decades ago, DCFA has Photo: UWI DCFA

become the breeding ground for performers, artists and

professionals in nearly every sphere of festival management
and production. A major part of the UWI programme is hosting real-world
events. This has spawned many well loved annual activities.
Visual Arts
Fancy a Christmas concert? UWI Arts Chorale and UWI Arts Steel have built Final Year
a reputation for outstanding performances, melding choir with steelpan at Exhibition
Photo: UWI DCFA
some of Trinidad’s iconic churches such as the Santa Rosa Roman Catholic
Church in Arima. Over the years, the UWI Arts Chorale, led by Jessel Murray,
has won 12 Cacique Awards for its artistry and excellence.
How about a play? Every year DCFA’s Theatre Unit holds its main stage
production. The repertoire can range from international classics such as an
adaptation of Akira Kurosawa’s “Rashomon” to original works such as the
Soca musical “Stick-ey Desires”. The production is usually held in March at
the UWI St. Augustine Campus.
In April, the works of the next generation of visual artists are displayed in
an exhibition at the National Museum and Art Gallery in Port of Spain.
“Sole to Sole,” one of the major productions of the Dance Unit, includes
choreography and performances from not only degree and certificate
students, but also members of the Festival Dance Ensemble, other dance
companies and student dancers from the Secondary School Dance Festival.
Held at the Little Carib Theatre in March, it showcases many styles – folk,
modern, jazz and hip hop.
Carnival is of course the heart of T&T culture, and through the Carnival
Studies Unit, patrons experience Carnival as it once was at “The Old Yard.”
The Old Yard is an interactive experience that immerses visitors in traditional
Carnival with its costumes and characters such as the Midnight Robber, Theatre Arts Unit
Photo: Aaron Mohammed
Pierrot Grenade, Moko Jumbies and a host of others. It takes place one week
before Carnival at the DCFA in St. Augustine.

Be Entertained 95
 Photo: Gary Jordon
One of a kind
Special Events in Trinidad & Tobago By Roslyn Carrington
Whether you’re planning an event for business or pleasure,
whether you want to stage a week-long seminar, a formal end-of-
conference dinner, a wedding, or a destination reunion, you’ll never
be at a loss for finding that perfect location.
Major hotels and select restaurants offer event spaces catering
to groups of all sizes, from grand ballrooms to private party rooms
or outdoor patios with a sea view. Many offer all the amenities,
from full dinner service to valet parking. You can host your event
in a luxury location like the Movietowne Banquet and Conference
Centre, or choose one of many others in all major towns.
If you prefer the outdoors, there are waterfront patios, garden
spaces, concert stages, or even arenas available. And worry not!
There are trained, certified event planners willing to conceptualise,
plan and manage every detail.
It’s the perfect opportunity to make your event stand out.
Imagine your hall decorated in Caribbean hues, enhanced by floral
statement pieces from suppliers like Flowers to Treasure Limited,
Romance Gardens or Flowers 137.
96 Be Entertained
Step away from tried and true Continental menus.
Instead, consult with your caterer and offer your guests
an adventurous twist on local foods from Doubles and
Accra to hearty staples like Callaloo soup or Roti, which
can be created into bite-size, delicious hors d’oeuvres.
For your awards, souvenirs and tokens, shy away
from the mundane and mass-produced and turn instead
towards lovingly made bespoke items, created just for
you. Fill your swag-bags with local sweets and dark
chocolates in hand-painted miniature boxes; desktop
doodads of wood or brass; embossed notepads and
pens… all emblazoned with your logo, initials or a
symbol that speaks to your theme.
And don’t forget to dress the part: greet your guests
decked out in local designer originals, or outfit your staff
in uniforms or printed T-shirts made to order.
Make sure your event is memorable for all the right
reasons. It’s your party and you can have it your way.
Be Entertained 97
 Home & Away
T&T Sport Gains the Advantage
By Sheldon Waithe

Slowing down is not part of the Trinidad sport psyche, and over the past year,
the sportsmen and women of T&T took on the world with remarkable returns.
Similarly, on the home front there continues to be a marked increase in the
number of international events held in the country.

World Cup Qualifier T&T vs USA

Photo: Allan V Crane

98 Sport
 The tradition of significant events and performances is now
married to 21st Century infrastructure and development. The
push for sports tourism already has the base of illustrious talent
within the island. Advantage, Trinidad!
The Red Force, as the national cricket team is known, was
unable to make it three in a row in the Regional Super 50 and
continued their struggle in the regional four-day tournament.
However, the latter competition saw the first day/night pink ball
match to be staged in the Caribbean (at the Queen’s Park Oval),
perhaps a hint at the future.
The glitzy Caribbean Premier League (CPL) rolled into town,
with local franchise Trinbago Knight Riders making the most of
the home support to get four wins out of five at the Oval, while
securing enough points in the away games to make it to the
play-offs held at the new Brian Lara Academy in 2017. Despite
losing the play-off, they progressed to the Final via an Eliminator
and duly made the crowd at the new venue erupt by winning the
Circuit Racing
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan
CCCAN Swimming Championships
Photo: Allan V Crane
Brian Lara Stadium Opening Match
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan
trophy. The subsequent celebrations certainly lived up to the CPL
tagline “Biggest Party In Sport.”
Away from the Knight Riders’ dazzling squad that included
superstars Dwayne and Darren Bravo, Sunil Narine and Kevon
Cooper, other Trinidad players such as Kieron Pollard, Akeal
Hosein, Nicholas Pooran, shone across the other franchise
teams, with special mention of Evin Lewis. The left-hander
continued his upward trajectory throughout the year,
culminating with an amazing stroke filled 176 in a One Day
International versus England in London. The Trinidad cricket
conveyer belt rolls on.....
Having made it to the CONCACAF Hex group, there were
high hopes for the men’s national football team qualifying for
the 2018 World Cup. Inexplicably, the Soca Warriors lost their
momentum and with it the majority of their matches, registering
only one win. Dennis Lawrence, appointed Manager in January
2017, has a tough rebuilding road ahead, but he always had a
CPL T20 - Colin Munro from the Trinbago
Knight Riders Team with young fans
Photo: Allan V Crane
Sport 99
 long term plan - give the road to Russia the best shot and then
UANA Cup Waterpolo
Photo: Allan V Crane focus on development. This parting shot was a defeat for the USA
team in October 2017.
Central FC made it a hat-trick of victories in domestic
competition, dominating by leading for all but one of the weeks of
the 18-match day competition.
The ethos of repeat victories resounded in one of the world’s
toughest powerboat events as ‘Mr. Solo’ notched its 18th win in
the 103 mile Great Race between Trinidad & Tobago. Staying on
the water, Trinity College reigned supreme in Inter School Dragon
Boat Regatta, while the Paddle for the Planet global relay event
raised awareness and funds for marine conservation.
The Central American and Caribbean Championships was held
at the National Aquatic Centre and team T&T did not disappoint.
The hosts won the overall event - encompassing swimming, water
polo and diving disciplines - edging out previous champs, Puerto
Rico.
A packed golf calendar saw Clint Alfred’s name in the winner’s
column including the Sagicor Invitational, while the future looks
bright through the eyes of teenager Serena Mackenzie, winner of
the TTGA Classic and the women-only Nestle Open. With a brand
new National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua and numerous courts
across the island, tennis is gaining major ground especially among
the youth. T&T took part in the Global Federation Cup
competition in Panama, an invaluable experience
for the team. Also, 16 players represented the
country at an ITF Junior Tournament in St
Lucia, with most players advancing and
Kyle Kerry and Alexis Bruce claiming the
Under 14 titles.
The Pan American Track Cycling
Championships thrilled crowds at the
National Cycle Centre as the best in
the Western Hemisphere battled over
five days. T&T secured silver in the
Horse Racing at Arima
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan Team Sprint and bronze via Quincy
Alexander in the kilometre time trial.
Next, the venue seeks to host a Track
World Cup.
In 2016 it was a Kenyan, in 2017 it was
Mexican José Vare, that prevented local
Go Karting Curtis Cox from claiming the Trinidad Marathon
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan
for the host nation. After a weekend that included
cross country and 5k events, the main event saw
the usual number of supporters along the 26 mile route from
Freeport to Port of Spain, all urging on the runners as the sun rose
and the heat began.
With the World Athletics Championships taking place in London,
there was no post-Olympic ‘tabanca’ for T&T’s athletes. Jereem
Richards fulfilled the critics’ predictions with bronze in the 200M
before helping the 4x400M Relay team become World Champions
in a breathtaking final. Two weeks later Akeem Stewart also took
the title of world’s best in the Javelin at the World Para Athletic
Power Boat Racing Championships. They never slowed down, which is how Trinis do
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan
their sport, at home and abroad. Roll on 2018, we’re ready!

100 Sport
 Machel Cedenio Jareem Richards Jarrin Solomon Lalonde Gordon
Photos: Allan V. Crane
CHAMPION QUARTET
T&T take home gold at the World Champs
By Sheldon Waithe
When the teams walked through the wall of sparkles that now forms
modern athletics’ introduction of the nations, there was no showboating by T&T,
instead they exuded focus and conviction.
The relative peace and serenity of a Sunday afternoon is
pierced by sudden screams. There is no uniformity to the shrieks
at the televisions, one minute it’s positive, the next it’s uncertain.
But two minutes and fifty-eight seconds later there was only one
emotion: pure, unadulterated joy! T&T had just won the 4x400M
relay at the 2017 World Athletic Championships.
It was the last event of the Worlds and the see-sawing
fortunes during the race and subsequent result, prompted the
commentator to remark “Trinidad & Tobago bring the house
down in London, in style.” Well, they would do it that way,
wouldn’t they?
When the teams walked through the wall of sparkles that
now forms modern athletics’ introduction of the nations, there
was no showboating by T&T, instead they exuded focus and
conviction. The USA remained the traditional favourites but
given the talent and work of this twin-island quartet, the title
was there for the taking.
Jarrin Solomon gave them a good start, closing gaps before
handing over to the 200M bronze medallist Jereem Richards
whose raw speed put the team in second behind the Americans,
a position that Machel Cedenio maintained. Just as he looked
to be fading with a quarter of a lap to go, Cedenio found his
famous kick, turned on the afterburners and handed it over to
Lalonde Gordon. The USA though, was still in front. Out of the
final bend and the Americans seemed to have it sewn up. But
Gordon loves this track - he won two Olympic bronze medals on
it in 2012 - and from somewhere, straining every sinew in
his body, timed it perfectly to overtake and then distance
the USA. Gordon disappeared beneath Richards and
Solomon, while Cedenio, plagued with injuries this year,
stood nearby in some disbelief.
Once again the small nation had punched way above
its weight. In that regard the 2017 4x400 gold was the
culmination of a long line of relay progress across both
genders, for T&T. In 2001, the Ato Boldon led 4x100M team
landed Worlds silver, setting the course for a number of
medals won by both the 100M and 400M teams at World
and Olympic level over the next fourteen years. For a nation
with a population of 1.3 million people to draw upon, it is
remarkable consistency. By 2015 the women followed suit,
breaking new ground with their own 4x100 Worlds bronze.
We can dare to dream of an Olympic equivalent come
Tokyo 2020; not forgetting that the production line of 400M
runners also includes Renny Quow who ran the preliminary
rounds at the 2017 Worlds, as well as 2013 World Champion
Jehue Gordon.
They have the talent and certainly have the attitude, as
anchor leg Lalonde Gordon attests, “We knew that if we
stayed close with the US anchor that he would crack, so
I tracked him all the way, and then took the lead in the
straight and said I am gone, this is gold for Trinidad and
Tobago.”
Sport 101
 T&T: A Global Player
In Sports Tourism By Sheldon Waithe

With the recent completion of some of the

best new sporting facilities in the Western
Hemisphere, Trinidad & Tobago is pushing sports
tourism in a big way, aided by the successful
hosting of international events throughout 2017.

It’s the stepping stone to maximising the nation’s potential in one of the
fastest growing facets of the global market. The jewels of the sport tourism
crown, the National Cycling Centre, Aquatic Centre and Tennis Centre were
completed in 2016, joining the array of established stadia such as the Jean
Pierre Complex, Hasely Crawford Stadium, Shaw Park Complex, Queen’s
Park Oval, the Ato Boldon and Larry Gomes Stadium. With the Brian Lara
Cricket Academy opening in May 2017, the concrete infrastructure is not
only complete but proven. The Lara stadium was christened with a fantastic
hosting of the Caribbean Premier League final, while the Cycling Centre
held the junior and senior Pan American Championships and now
seeks to host a World Cup. Not to be outdone, the Aquatic
Centre opened with the Central American and Caribbean
Swimming Association Championships.
In every instance, top marks were given by all
global governing bodies and visiting athletes.
Quite simply, these venues are world class. There
is also the huge benefit that having one of the
healthiest stadia-to-population ratios in the
world, will result in the development of more
champions emanating from T&T, a nation that
has already proven its wealth of sporting talent
given its results on the global stage. Success
now depends upon the thrust and vision of the
Ministry, Sports Minister Darryl Smith, has begun
to explore using the facilities as satellite centres
to service respective sports, an exercise that will
“generate millions of dollars in revenue that will be
obtained as countries will now be able to utilise our
world-class facilities.”
There are also the ‘tag on’ attractions of the unique T&T
culture, the year-round warmer climate, beaches, golf courses,
culinary excellence, a glittering array of global champions across diverse
sporting disciplines and the perfect training reliever of a Trini ‘lime’. Every
year the country has put in the hard work to raise the sports tourism bar,
now all the factors have come together to enable it to take the giant leap
and compete on the world stage.

102 Sport
 National Aquatic Centre
Inset: Pan American Championships
Photos: Richard Lyder

Sport 103

Sample Menu
Appetisers
Spicy Chicken Sliders, Shrimp & Chips
FROM THE GRILL
Jack Daniel’s® Steak, Jack Daniel’s® Chicken
Mains – Wicked Chicken, Almond Crusted
Whitefish And Jalapeno Shrimp
Salads – Chipotle Yucatan Chicken Salad,
7 Spice Seared Salmon Salad
Pasta – Blackened Chicken Alfredo, Shrimp
Arrabiata
Burgers – Jack Daniel’s® Burger, Philly Cheese
Steak Burger
Dessert – Chocolate Turtle Cake, New York
Cheesecake
In 1965, Fridays™ opened its first location in
New York City. Over the years, TGI Fridays™ has
developed a rich food and beverage heritage
which includes popularising Happy Hour and
creating the Long Island Iced Tea and Loaded
Potato Skins. The heart of each TGI Fridays™
is the bar, a stage where that “Friday Feeling”
begins and infectious energy is created by
the world’s greatest bartenders serving up
innovative drinks. Whether for lunch, dinner
or late night dining, we always provide an
environment that frees our guests to let go of
restraints and be themselves. That way they
leave our restaurants feeling far better than they
did when they first walked through our doors.
Tel (868) 624-TGIF (8443)
Address bpTT Building, Port of Spain
Tel (868) 673-TGIF (8443)
Address Price Plaza, Chaguanas
Tel (868) 653-TGIF (8443)
Address Gulf City, San Fernando
www.tgif-tt.com
108 Good Food, Good Mood
Kava
Sample Menu
KAVA Pizza – Our own signature pizza!
Tomato sauce, mozzarella,
goat cheese, caramelized onions,
with toasted walnuts or capers.
Atlantic Salmon – Teriyaki and mango-glazed
Atlantic Salmon, pan-seared with parsley
potatoes and julienne vegetables.
Prosciutto Salad – Prosciutto with
mixed greens, olives, goat cheese,
balsamic dressing and pepperoncini salsa.
KAVA’s Bushwhacker – Vodka, Baileys,
Kahlua, Coconut Rum, Coconut Cream,
Amaretto, Grand Marnier and
Vanilla Ice Cream.
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.
Reservations (868) 622-KAVA (5282)
Address Kapok Hotel, Lobby Level
16-18 Cotton Hill, St. Clair, Trinidad
Email kava@kapokhotel.com
Facebook facebook.com/kapokhoteltrinidad
www.kapokhotel.com
Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway
Available for functions $$
Tiki Village
Sample Menu
Our Special Polynesian Delight
A combination of five delectable
hors d’oeuvres.
A Tiki favourite – Perfect for sharing!
Mongolian Beef – Tender beef, sautéed
in a hot, spicy hoisin sauce, served over
a thin layer of crispy vermicelli.
Jing Shek Ban – Steamed boneless fillet of fish
with ginger and chive in a soya sauce.
Walnut Shrimp – Shrimp deep fried and
tossed with toasted walnuts in an exotic sauce.
Tiki Pork – Tender slices of seasoned pork
sautéed with onions, sweet peppers,
in a spicy hoisin sauce.
Tiki Village is a unique Asian-Polynesian
Restaurant offering a stunning view of the
Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, and
the Gulf of Paria. Explore our famous Dim Sum
menu on Sundays and taste our delicately
hand-crafted Asian delights. Or join us for our
sumptuous a-la-carte lunches and dinners.
Honey-toned wooden pillars and copper
masks, locally crafted by our artisans, create
a warm ambiance and an elegant background.
Perfect for a romantic evening, business
meeting or a family outing.
Reservations (868) 622-KPOK (5765)
Address Kapok Hotel, 8th Floor
16-18 Cotton Hill, St. Clair, Maraval
Email stay@kapokhotel.com
Facebook facebook.com/kapokhoteltrinidad
www.kapokhotel.com
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway,
Available for functions $$$
 Ruby Tuesday
Sample Menu
Full Rack of Baby-Backs - Our signature
slow-cooked and fork-tender ribs that fall off
the bone! Classic barbecue, Honey barbecue
sauce - Or try one of NEW sauce options: Jerk
BBQ | Tamarind | Shadon Beni | Geera BBQ.
Ruby’s Surf & Turf Kebabs - Marinated sirloin
steak & shrimp, skewered with vegetables,
grilled to perfection and brushed with
barbecue sauce for a definite crowd-pleaser.
Cajun Shrimp Pasta - Grilled Cajun-seasoned
shrimp, specially prepared with our Chef’s
creamy, tomato-parmesan sauce.
From our bountiful, freshly-prepared salads and
flavourful, fork-tender ribs to our mouthwatering,
chef-inspired menu items. Ruby Tuesday makes
every effort to ensure you get the best casual dining
experience. You can expect the same friendly
atmosphere and great service at any of our five
locations: Movietowne, Port-of-Spain, the City of
Grand Bazaar, Price Plaza in Chaguanas, Gulf City,
La Romaine and C3 Centre, San Fernando. Don’t
have time to dine with us?... Try the convenience of
our Curbside Pick-up TOGO! Simply call the branch
closest to you! Hours: Sunday to Thursday 11 am
to 11 pm. Friday to Saturday - 11 am to 1 am.
Ruby Tuesday
More Choices,
More Taste, More Fun!
Tel (868) 624-6566
MovieTowne Complex, Port of Spain
Tel (868) 663-6566
Grand Bazaar, Churchill Roosevelt Hwy
Tel (868) 665-5369
Price Plaza, Chaguanas
Tel (868) 653-6566
Gulf City, La Romaine
Tel: (868) 657-7829
C3 Centre, San Fernando
www.rubytuesdaytt.com $$
110 Good Food, Good Mood
Waterfront
Restaurant
Sample Menu
Lunch
Vegetable Lasagna - Vegetarian cheese,
soy pesto sauce.
Seafood Broth - Miso broth, salmon, clams,
mussels, rice noodles, chives.
Jerk Red Snapper - Stewed red beans, sautéed
plantains, tamarind sauce.
Dinner
Seafood Pot - Shrimp, clams, mussels, catch,
basmati rice, thai curry sauce.
Atlantic Salmon - Green pea mash, pearl
vegetables, tomato relish, mango jus.
Rack of Lamb - Wild berry cous cous,
pimento passion fruit marmalade.
Desserts
Flavours in White - Light and hazelnut milk
pudding, coffee chantilly, vanilla ice cream.
Opera Rocher - Layers of chocolate ganache
cake, light latte mousse, dulce de leche ice cream.
Waterfront Restaurant invites you to enjoy local
and international cuisine with contemporary
flair. Featuring fresh seafood, mouth-watering
steaks and a bounty of delicious tropical fare,
Waterfront promises to take you on an amazing
culinary excursion. Savour authentic flavours,
magnificent presentations and a gorgeous
tropical setting, as you dine indoors or outdoors,
with amazing views of the Gulf of Paria.
Tel (868) 821-6550
Address Hyatt Regency Trinidad
1 Wrightson Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
Facebook www.facebook.com/
HyattRegencyTrinidad
Twitter @HyattTrinidad
Instagram Hyatttrinidad
trinidad.regency.hyatt.com $$$
The Centro
Restaurant
Sample Menu
Buffalo shrimp
Shrimp tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce.
Grilled chicken apple salad
Artisan lettuce, apples, almonds, blue cheese
with an apple cider dressing.
Smoked salmon & spinach flatbread
Caribbean jam-jam
Shrimp, chicken, sausage tossed
in spices and rice.
Charred salmon
Served with choice of any two sides.
Ray’s favorite pasta
Penne tossed with broccoli, oven dried
tomatoes, sweet peppers, Kalamata olives
& garlic served with your choice of alfredo,
marinara or olive oil.
The Centro Restaurant at the Courtyard by
Marriott offers a fast casual dining experience
serving a blend of local and international
cuisines. Our team of culinary experts will
ensure that your dining experience with us is
memorable. We’re open daily from 6:00 a.m.
until 11:00 a.m. for breakfast and from 12:00
noon until 11:00 p.m. for lunch and dinner.
Reservations are required.
Tel (868) 627-5555
E-mail cy.poscy.guestcare@courtyard.com
Courtyard by Marriott, Invaders Bay
Audrey Jeffers Highway,
Port of Spain $$$
 Texas de Brazil
Sample Menu
Seasonal Salad Area
Aged French Cheeses, Smoked Salmon,
Marinated Portobello, Lobster Bisque, Brazilian
Pasta salad, Sushi, Brazilian Black Beans with
pork, Sweet & Sour Fish.
Various Cuts of Beef, Lamb, Pork, Chicken
and Brazilian Sausage
Brazilian Picanha, Rack of Lamb, Chicken
wrapped in Bacon, Fillet Mignon, parmesan-
Crusted Pork, Hearty Flank Steak, Filet Mignon
wrapped in Bacon.
Brazilian Cocktail: Caipirniha
Our signature cocktail with fresh fruit and
sugar muddled and served shaken.
Texas De Brazil is an authentic Brazilian-
American churrascaria (steak house) offering
you an interactive dining experience unlike
anything else in Trinidad and Tobago!
Treat yourself to our 50 to 60 seasonal salad
area and traditional side items. When you are
ready for meat, turn your card to green and
prepare to be swarmed by a troop of carvers
generously serving various cuts of meat until
you can say, “No mas!” An extensive wine list,
freshly made signature cocktails, and many
decadent desserts are available to complete
your dining experience. Hours of Operation:
Sunday Brunch: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Dinner nightly: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Tel (868) 623-0022
Address Level 2 Fiesta Plaza, MovieTowne
Invader’s Bay, Audrey Jeffers Highway,
Port of Spain
www.texasdebrazil.com
Fixed pricing (All you can eat)
Available for Functions $$$
112 Good Food, Good Mood
Rizzoni’s
Ristorante Italiano
Sample Menu
Antipasti – Fuoco Gamberetti Arrosto
Fire-roasted shrimp tossed with fresh herbs,
island peppers and spicy garlic butter.
Pizzas – Pear, Prosciutto and Gorgonzola
Fresh pears, caramelised onions, prosciutto and
thyme bring out the rich flavours in this sauce-
less pizza, topped with mozzarella cheese and
crumbled fresh gorgonzola.
Pastas – Cannelloni Di Pesce
Our seafood medley of shrimp, lump crab, baby
clams and a blend of cheeses rolled in pasta
and baked with mozzarella and parmesan
cream sauce.
Chicken, Meats & Seafood –
Risotto alla Pescatora
Shrimp, calamari, clams and mussels simmered
with creamy Arborio rice.
Desserts
Alternating layers of hazelnut cream and
chocolate cream, topped with praline hazelnuts
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. Lunch
served daily: 11:00 am - 3:30 pm. Dinner: Sun to
Thur: 5:00 pm - 10:30 pm and Fri & Sat: 5:00 pm
- 11:00 pm. Download the Rizzoni’s To Go app.
Available for functions.
Tel (868) 627-RIZZ (7499), 657-RIZZ (7499)
Address MovieTowne, Level 1,
Fiesta Plaza, Port of Spain.
MovieTowne, C3 Plaza/Complex
San Fernando
www.rizzoni-italiano.com
Available for Functions $$
Samurai
Sushi Bar & Steakhouse
Sample Menu
Appetisers
Beef Tataki: Beef top sirloin, bean sprouts, baby
lettuce, onion, soy dressing.
Zuke Tuna Tataki: Flambéed marinated tuna,
garlic chips, sesame, ponzu sauce.
Sushi
Shogun Roll: Shrimp, tuna, salmon, Hamachi,
snapper, chive.
Okita Roll: Soft shell crab, orange masago,
lettuce, tomato, spicy mayo, teriyaki.
Entrée
Ishiyaki Beef Steak: 8oz Angus beef rib eye,
baby potato, bean sprout, Japanese BBQ sauce.
Dessert
Green Tea Tiramisu: Two layers of coffee liqueur
soaked ladyfingers and a butter cake layer
separated by a sweet mix of mascarpone cheese
and whipped cream topped with green tea.
Enjoy the Japanese experience at Samurai
Restaurant Sushi Bar and Steakhouse, where
Japanese born Executive Chef, Kenji Miura
creates an authentic culinary experience
enhanced with exotic Caribbean flavours.
We’re open every day with weekly specials.
Wednesdays: Sushi Buffet begins at 6:00p.m.;
Thursdays: Japanese Steak and Seafood Night
from 6:00p.m.; Fridays: Robata Japanese Grill
stirs up the after work lime on our cool and
breezy deck and Saturday we offer over 130
wines “By the Glass”. Opening Hours:
Sunday-Thursday 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Friday & Saturday: 11:00 am – 12:00 am
Tel (868) 235-3283
E-mail reservations@samuraitt.com
Address Unit 26 B&C, One Woodbrook
Place, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
www.samuraitt.com
Lunch, Dinner, Dine-in, Takeaway $$-$$$
Good Food, Good Mood 113
 Subway
Sample Menu
Breakfast
Ham & Egg, Cheese & Egg, Bacon & Egg,
Western Egg, Sunrise Subway Melt
– available in 6”, FOOTLONG or Deli.
Lunch/Dinner
Premium Subs/Salads/Wraps – Chicken
Teriyaki, Oven Roasted Chicken, BBQ Chicken,
BBQ Pork Melt, Sriracha Chicken, Fish Fillet.
Select Subs/Salads/Wraps – Steak & Cheese,
Italian BMT, Seafood & Lobster, Meatball
Marinara.
Signature Subs – Tuna, Subway Melt, Subway
Club, Veggie Patty.
Classic Subs/Salads/Wraps – Turkey Breast,
Black Forest Ham, Roast Beef, Veggie Delite
Bread Options Available: Italian, Honey Oat,
9-Grain Wheat, Roasted Garlic,
Parmesan Oregano.
Extras Available: Pineapple, Olives, Jalapeños,
Double Meat, Extra Cheese, Bacon.
Sauces: Sweet Onion, Red Wine Vinegar,
Shandon Beni, Garlic Sauce, Mayo, Olive Oil.
Also available: Cookies, Muffins, Brownies,
Toasties, Hot Drinks, Cold Drinks.
North: Arima, Barataria, Curepe, Mount Hope,
O’Meara, San Juan, Sangre Grande, Trincity
Mall, Tunapuna, UWI, Valpark, Valsayn, Piarco.
West: Ariapita Avenue, Diego Martin, Frederick
St., Glencoe, Hart St., Henry St., Independence
Square, Long Circular Mall, Maraval,
MovieTowne, Queen & Edward St., Westmall,
St. James.
South/Central: Couva, Chase Village, Debe,
Gasparillo, South Park, Gulf City Mall, High
Street, La Romain, Marabella, Mayaro,
Montrose, Penal, Point a Pierre, Point Fortin,
Point Lisas, Price Plaza, Princes Town, Siparia.
Tobago: Lowlands, Orange Hill, Scarborough.
Tel (868) 662-5716/645-8158/662-0092
Fax (868) 662 3250 $
114 Good Food, Good Mood
El Pecos Grill
Sample Menu
Meats
Chicken – Rotisserie, BBQ, Jerk, Fried,
Stewed, Curried, Geera.
Beef – Stewed, Pastelles, 100% Burger .
Pork – BBQ Ribs, Jerk, BBQ, BBQ Pigtail,
Stewed, Ham.
Fish – Grilled, Stewed, Fried,
Salt Fish and Provision.
Lamb – Stewed.
Sides
Rice – Festive, White, Bhagi, Pelau.
Provisions – Steamed Provision, Plantain,
Buttered Cassava, Parsley Potato,
Steak Fries, Seasoned Fries.
Vegetables – Chunky Vegetables, Corn,
Melongene Ratatouille, Callaloo, Corn Pie.
Salads – Green, Coleslaw, Green Fig,
Macaroni, Potato.
Other – Macaroni Pie, Peas/Beans,
Dumplings, Coo Coo.
Saturday Specials
Oxtail & Beef Soup, Pig Foot Souse.
El Pecos offers you the best in fast casual
dining, with a solid reputation for consistently
good food and value for money. Indulge
yourself in our selection of fire-grilled or slow-
cooked meats, served with a variety of superb
sides. Simply serve yourself, weigh, and pay
for your food by the pound.
Tel (868) 285-9171
Fax (868) 632-3892
Email office@elpecos.com
Address Diego Martin Main Rd.,
– 84a Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook
– Lower 6th Avenue, Barataria
– Fernandes Industrial Centre,
Eastern Main Road
Dining 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
TT$40.00 per lb. $
Arabian
Nights
Sample Menu
Meats - Lamb Chops; Beef Strips; Fish Steak;
Roasted Garlic Chicken - (leg and thigh or
boneless breast).
Kebabs - Chicken; Shrimp; Lamb; Kafta.
Gyros - Chicken; Beef; Lamb; Shrimp;
Fish; Vegetarian.
Sides - Moussaka; Garlic Potatoes; Humus or
Baba Ganoush; Kibbes (Roasted or Fried);
Falafel; Vegetable or Arabic Rice.
Salads - Tabouli; Fatoush; Green Salad; Grilled
Chicken, Bodi Lasagne; Mixed (all meats).
Arabian Nights is the place to be if you are
looking for authentic Arabian cuisine. Located
in Highland Plaza, Western Main Road, Glencoe
(which is in north-west Trinidad), our restaurant
offers unique Arabian flavours to appeal to your
taste buds. Our warm and friendly staff and
middle-eastern inspired designs are geared
toward creating the best environment for you to
indulge in your favourite authentic Arabian dishes
such as Fattoush, Hummus, Kafta, Moussaka pie
all made fresh, Kebabs, Kebbia, Gyros, Tabouli
and Shawarma. Try the ever popular Falafel
(which is the national dish of middle eastern
made with a mix of chickpeas, broad beans,
onion, garlic, coriander, cumin and exotic
spices) served with the chef’s signature tahini
sauce. Hours of Operation:
Monday – Saturdays 11:00
a.m. – 8:45 p.m. Open on
Sundays and Public Holidays
at Management’s discretion.
Tel (868) 637-3036
Address Unit #3 Highland Plaza, Western
Main Road, Glencoe, Trinidad.
Email sg.laquis@gmail.com $
Good Food, Good Mood 115
 Hakka
Restaurant & Bar
Sample Menu
Appetiser
Pepper Salt Calamari
Succulent morsels of calamari fried
to perfection and tossed with garlic, ginger,
onions, scallions and fresh Calcutta chillies.
Main Course
Konjee Crispy Chicken
Moist slices of chicken breast crispy fried,
heated with our special Calcutta red chili paste
and tossed with onions and scallions
in a sweet and spicy Konjee sauce.
Red Curry Shrimp (Thai, Spicy)
Tender pieces of shrimp and select vegetables
cooked in a rich, flavourful Thai red curry,
made to perfection, coconut milk, fragrant Thai
herbs and our red curry paste.
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.
Dining or Takeaway
11:00 am – 11:00 pm Mon. – Thur.
11:00 am – 12 midnight Fri. and Sat.
11:00 am – 10:00 pm Sunday
Tel (868) 33-HAKKA (42552)
Address 4 Taylor Street, Woodbrook, POS
Email info@hakkarestaurant.com
Facebook Hakka-Restaurant-Bar
www.hakkarestaurant.com
Lunch, Dinner, Parking Available $-$$
116 Good Food, Good Mood
Soong’s
Great Wall
Sample Menu
Phoenix Basket
A combination of assorted seafood,
meats and mixed vegetables presented
in an edible basket.
Sizzling Tenderloin Beef
Beef tenderloin slices stir-fried in black bean
sauce and served on a sizzling hot platter.
Sesame Shrimp – Golden battered shrimp
smothered in a delectable cream sauce and
sprinkled with lightly toasted sesame seeds.
Lobster Cantonese – Chunks of the finest
lobster, delicately cooked with a
cream and butter sauce.
Dasheen Pork – Slices of pork & dasheen,
layered and steamed in a special sauce.
The Great Wall of China is the world’s longest
wall built entirely by hand, making it a
remarkable engineering feat. Today, Soong’s
Great Wall prides itself on that same
personal attention that builds long-lasting
relationships, making us a world-class
restaurant. Relax and be pampered by our
highly trained staff, personally instructed in the
art of making you feel welcome. Our famous
Wednesday Night Buffet offers succulent
lobster, among many other delectable dishes.
Don’t miss our Sunday Lunch Buffet.
Reservations (868) 652-Wall (9255) /
657-5050 / 652-2583
Fax (868) 653-3834
Address 97 Circular Rd., San Fernando
Email soongsgreatwall@gmail.com
Private upper level for special
functions & seminars $$
INKA Peruvian
Restaurant
Sample Menu
Appetiser
Ceviche de Pescado
Marinated fish cubes in lime, cilantro, red
peppers with sweet potato and onion.
Tiradito Nikkei
Slices of red snapper with soy sauce and red chillis.
Main Course
Tataki de Atún
Sealed tuna, green mango, chives, teriyaki
reduction and maras salt.
Tacu Tacu en Salsa de Mariscos
Savoury Lentil and Rice Pancake, served with
sautéed seafood.
Lomo Saltado – “THE INFALLIBLE”
Traditional Peruvian dish; sautéed sirloin
cubes with onions, yellow bell peppers and
tomato. Accompanied by rice and fries.
A favourite!
INKA Peruvian Restaurant, Port of Spain’s
newest dining destination with an ambience of
sophisticated vibrance. Created with a passion
for fine seafood and a love for entertainment,
INKA serves up in a dynamic dining experience.
On the cocktail side we offer a variety of native
and signature cocktails and drinks. Located at
the plaza entrance at One Woodbrook Place,
we invite you to dine and celebrate at INKA in
an immersive atmosphere and the very best of
Peruvian gastronomy.
Tel (868) 235-3566
Address One Woodbrook
Place, Port-of-Spain
Email residenceonewoodbrook@gmail.com
Faceook.com/INKATrinidad
Instagram.com/INKATrinidad
Lunch, Dinner, Private Functions, Catering $$$
Good Food, Good Mood 117
 CHAUD
Restaurant
Sample Menu
Main Course
Tagliatelle Pasta Primavera
Broccolini, Mushrooms, Zucchini, Tomatoes,
Kale, Channa, Pinenuts, Parmesan.
Pan Roasted Atlantic Salmon
Ratatouille topping, sautéed Spinach, crispy
Panisse, Tapenade, Red Pepper Jus.
Honey-Lavender Roasted Half Duckling
Soft Polenta, Rainbow Swiss Chard, Glacé Pearl
Onions & Carrots, Blueberry Gastrique.
Moroccan Spiced Rack of Lamb
Cous Cous, Grilled Vegetables, Chermoula
Yoghurt, Harissa Sauce.
Chaud Restaurant is the result of a vision held
by Khalid Mohammed since he was a young
chef. His distinctive cuisine, intense focus
and passion for food have made his dream
a reality. Chaud Restaurant offers modern,
international cuisine with a touch of Caribbean
flair. Our elegant and intimate dining room can
accommodate up to fifty guests seated, our
private dining room is perfect for a business
lunch, meetings or special event seating
twenty five guests. We are open for lunch
Wednesday to Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00
p.m. and for dinner Tuesday to Saturday from
6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Tel (868) 621-2002, 621-3903
Address #6 Nook Avenue, St. Ann’s,
Port-of-Spain.
Email reservations@chaudkm.com
Faceook.com/ChaudRestaurant
Instagram.com/ChaudRestaurant
Lunch, Dinner, Private Functions, Catering Event Space Rental available $$$ Parking: Opposite CW Interiors (Dinner only) $$$
118 Good Food, Good Mood
More Vino /
More Sushi
Sample Menu
Appetisers
Shrimp Tempura; Edamame; Calamari;
Golden Dumplings; Sriracha Wings;
Chicken bombs; Seaweed Salad.
Hot Kitchen
Chicken Alfredo; Pad Thai;
Thai Curries; Dim Sum.
Sushi Bar
Sriracha Lobster; Double Crunchy;
Angry Crab; Iron Chef; Volcano;
Tempura Crunchy Ninja; Scorpion Pepper;
Nigiri; Sashimi.
More Vino is one of the most popular
restaurants best known for their sushi. They
combine traditional 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.
Opening Hours: Sun: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Mon-Thurs: 11:00 am – 10:30 pm
Fri-Sat: 11:00 am – 11:30 pm
Tel (868) 622-VINO (8466), 652-8466
Fax (868) 622-2710
Port of Spain – 23 O’ Connor St., Woodbrook
Tel (868) 652-VINO (8466)
San Fernando – 33 Scott St., San Fernando
Email sales@morevino.com
Facebook facebook.com/morevino
Instagram @morevinotrinidad
www.morevino.com
Lunch, Dinner, Take away, Catering,
Mélange
Restaurant
Sample Menu
Appetiser
Warm vegetable salad of mixed greens, kale,
chargrilled eggplant, bell peppers, brussel
sprouts, toasted pine nuts and polenta crisp/
white wine vinaigrette.
Entrée
Mini lamb burgers, grilled brioche, bone marrow
butter, pepperjack, tomatoes, mint pesto mayo.
Desserts
Olive oil ice cream with thyme
and roasted pistachios.
For 15 years, we have been honoured and
humbled to be able to open our doors to both
local and international guests, many of whom
we know by name and consider to be our friends
and family. Renowned Chef Moses Ruben and
his daughter Collette, a Le Cordon Bleu London
and Paris Graduate, work together to create
fresh and innovative dishes which demonstrate
a fusion of tradition and modern influences.
Everything is prepared with great passion
and attention to detail, and presented in an
atmosphere of exceptional service. Additionally,
our intimate private room- “The 26.2” (named
after Chef Moses’ love for marathon running) -
can accommodate up to 16 persons and offsite
catering is also available. Hours of Operation:
Lunch: Tues-Fri 11:30 am - 2:30 pm. Dinner:
Tues-Sat 6:30 pm - 11:00 pm. Dress Code:
Elegantly Casual.
Tel (868) 628-8687
Address 40 Ariapita Avenue and Cornelio
Street, Woodbrook, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad.
Email melangett@hotmail.com
Facebook & Instagram: @melangett
 Island Beer
Chill & Grill
Sample Menu
Appetisers
Chicken Quesadilla - A classic Mexican tortilla,
filled with salsa and chicken served with
melted cheddar cheese, guacamole,
lettuce and sour cream.
Hearty Sandwich
Brisket Cheese - Sliced, slow smoked brisket
with cheddar cheese, lettuce and BBQ sauce on
a 6 inch hoagie.
Pasta
Fettuccine Alfredo - Our creamy, full of flavour
homemade Alfredo sauce is mixed with our
pasta how mummy used to make it.
Smoked Meats:
Baby Back Ribs - Our tender and succulent pork
ribs are smoked for a minimum of 8 hours and
glazed with our signature BBQ sauce, then grilled
to perfection, served with your choice of side.
Ever tried Warsteiner Pilsner right off the tap? At
Island Beer Chill and Grill you can try over 120
different beers from around the globe such as
Lagers, Ales, Stouts as well as Ciders. Come and
treat yourself to our slow smoked meats, wings
and even pasta to compliment any palate. We
feature all major sporting events on our big
screens coupled with drink specials weekly.
Opening Hours: One Woodbrook Place:
Sun - Thurs 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm • Fri & Sat 11:00
am - 1:00 am. South Park: 11:00 am daily.
Tel (868) 235-BEER (2337)
Address Shop 41, One Woodbook Place,
Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
Tel (868) 220-IBCG (2442)
Address South Park, San Fernando.
Facebook and Instagram
/Island Beer Chill and Grill
Lunch, Dinner, Dine-in, Takeaway $-$$
Annie’s Mandarin
Restaurant & Lounge
Sample Menu
Appetisers
Hong Kong wantons;
Home styled wanton soup.
Main Course
Jasmine fried rice;
Baby patchoi;
Funci with garlic shrimp;
Steamed red snapper;
Fresh crispy skin pork.
At Annie’s Mandarin Restaurant & Lounge, we
specialise in Chinese and Mandarin cuisines.
We prepare and cook fresh food daily for lunch
and dinner and cater for all occasions. No MSG
is in any of our dishes. There are two popular
vegetarian favourites, Ma Pau tofu and hot
plate egg plant. Dine inside in air conditioned
comfort, or outside, al fresco on the balcony,
while you relax and drink some of our Chinese
tea or sip on a cocktail while listening to some
relaxing music.
Opening Hours:
Mondays - Thursdays 10:00 am - 10:00 pm.
Fridays & Saturdays 10:00 am - midnight.
Sundays & Public holidays 10:00 am - 10:00
pm.
Tel (868) 628-3021 (For Reservations)
Address Shop # 6, One Woodbrook Place,
Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
Facebook / Annies-Restaurant-and-Lounge
Takes Reservations, Good For Kids,
Take Out, Catering, Waiter Service,
Outdoor Seating $-$$$$
Good Food, Good Mood
Irie Bites
Sample Menu
Meats with two sides
Pork – Smoked BBQ, BBQ Ribs, BBQ Pigtail
Chicken – Smoked BBQ / Jerk / Stewed
Fish – Grilled/Jerk, Lamb – BBQ/Jerk
Side Bites
Jamaican rice & peas, Bhagi rice,
Stewed lentils, Steak fries, Macaroni pie,
Mixed vegetables, Jamaican festivals,
Baked mashed potatoes, Callaloo, Sautéed
cassava and Sautéed plaintain
Salads
Macaroni, Potato, Green fig, Green, Coleslaw
Daily Lunch Specials
Mon. – Stewed fried fish and two sides
Tues. – Chicken pelau, cole slaw, fresh salad
Wed. – Jamaican curry goat, white rice,
green fig, green salad
Thur. – Stewed oxtails, red beans,
white rice, green salad
Fri. – Stewed pork, calaloo, provisions
Sat. – Ackee and salt fish, provisions
OR Beef soup.
Ackee and Saltfish
Unique and flavourful,
Irie Bites combines
the earthy taste of good old Jamaica with the
excitement of Trini cuisine. Our signature brand
Irie Bites provides mouth-watering authentic
Jamaican jerk and smoked BBQ meats. These
traditional Caribbean recipies are straight from
Grannie’s kitchen table. For those on the go or
busy at the office, there’s no need to sacrifice
quality and value. Simply call, place your order
and collect. Let our red, green, yellow and black
sign lead you to a true taste of Jamaica. Irie Bites
– savour the experience!
Open Hours: Mon-Thur & Sat 10.00am-9.00pm
Fri 10.00am-9.30pm and Sun 10.00am-3.00pm
Tel/Fax (868) 622-7364
Address 71A Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook
www.iriebitesjerk.com $
119
 El Bohio
Something Different
Sample Menu
Main Course
Empanadas: beef, chicken or fish fillet,
all full of flavour.
Arepa: shells pre-cooked, frozen
and ready to stuff.
Cachapas
Our soft, flaky pastry will melt in your mouth.
All meats are halal.
Tempt your tastebuds with the very best
Trinidad and Tobago spices, blended with
authentic Venezuelan spices, and take your
next celebration, special event, picnic, party or
meeting to another level with fusion cuisine. Try
us today! To place wholesale or retail orders,
please call us at 1 (868) 799 5665, for delivery
or pick up within 72 hours.
Tel (868) 799 5665 (For orders)
Email mariabermudez15@hotmail.com
Facebook @ElBohiovenezuelanfood
Taste is our blessing! $ Caters for all occasions, Dine-in, Takeout
120 Good Food, Good Mood
Shianns Food
Palace ltd.
Sample Menu
Indian Cuisine
Curry shrimp, chicken, beef, goat, duck
Vegetables: curry pumpkin, bodi, channa and
mango (in season)
Paratha, roti, dhosti and dhalpuri.
Creole Cuisine
Grilled lamb, stewed fish, stewed chicken,
Bar B Que, oxtail etc...
Coo coo and callalloo, macaroni pie,
shepherd’s pie, fresh peas, provisions, potato
salad and fresh tossed salad.
Shianns Food Palace Ltd. is famous for Indian
and Creole cuisine menus. With a wide range
of customers, from the man on the street to
the discerning fellow business owner. What
they all have in common is a love for our curry.
The slightly piquant goat curry goes well with
buttery curried potatoes and channa, pumpkin
and a sweet and spicy curried mango that
stimulated palates, keep you coming back for
more. Soft and yummy paratha is the perfect
accompaniment. Shianns’ menu has also
extended to include grilled and barbecued
meats and salads. Indian breakfast available
Mon-Fri from 6:00 a.m - 10:00 a.m. Creole
cuisine sold on Sundays only from 11:00 a.m
- 3:00 p.m. Soup on Saturdays - Cowheel.
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri from 6:00 a.m. –
3:00 p.m. Weekends : 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Open some public holidays.
Tel (868) 304-5004
Address 62 Tragarete Road, Port-of-Spain.
shiannfoods@hotmail.com
$
Adam’s Bagels
& Specialty Breads
Sample Menu
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.
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 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.
Tel (868) 622-2435
Address 15A Saddle Rd., Maraval,
Port of Spain
Email adam@adamsbagels.com
www.adamsbagels.com
Breakfast, Lunch, Tea $-$$
 Burger Popeyes Little Caesars®
King Restaurant Pizza
Sample Menu Sample Menu Sample Menu
Breakfast Lunch & Dinner Lunch & Dinner
Croissan’wich with Ham or Bacon; Chicken (Mild/ Spicy) Classic Pepperoni Pizza
Pancakes; French Toast Chicken Tenders Cheese Pizza
Eggs; Bacon; Hash Browns. Cajun Fish Hula Hawaiian Pizza
Lunch Popcorn Shrimp Three Meat Treat Pizza
Whopper; Crispy Chicken; Sandwiches Veggie Pizza
Fish and Veggie Sandwiches; Salads Ultimate Supreme Pizza
Original Chicken Sandwich; Signature Sides Caesar Wings
Tendergrill and Tendercrisp Sandwiches; Crazy Bread
Salads and Desserts. Crazy Sauce

Throughout its history, Little Caesars has

®
The original HOME OF THE WHOPPER ,
our commitment to premium ingredients,
signature recipes, and family-friendly dining
experiences continues to define our brand.
Enjoy the diversity of our menu, with Flame-
Grilled 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, Gasparillo and C3 Centre.
Discover Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen built
around the traditional Southern American
home style 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
three Trinidad locations: Movie Towne, Trincity
Mall and Grand Bazaar.
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-N-
READY pizza offer. Visit any of our locations in
Trinidad: Gulf City Mall, C3 Centre and Valsayn
Branch Road – Valsayn.

Tel (868) 285-9031

Tel (868) 285-9031
Address Restaurant Holdings Limited
Restaurant Support Centre
14 Frederick Settlement, Caroni
Email rsc@ttrhl.com
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $
Tel (868) 285-9031 Address Restaurant Holdings Limited
Address Restaurant Holdings Limited Restaurant Support Centre
Restaurant Support Centre 14 Frederick Settlement, Caroni
14 Frederick Settlement, Caroni Email rsc@ttrhl.com
Email rsc@ttrhl.com Facebook | Instagram @LittleCaesarsTT
Facebook | Instagram @PopeyesTT Lunch, Dinner, Takeout
Lunch, Dinner $ No Calling • No Waiting • It’s Ready Now $

Good Food, Good Mood 121

 Ocean Grill Caffé Lighthouse
Tapas Lounge Del Mare Restaurant
Sample Menu Sample Menu Sample Menu
Bruschetta Breakfast Salads
Baked baguette with mezclum of tomatoes, Brioche Bun Sandwich with choice of two sides; Classic Caesar Salad
fresh basil and choka. Choice of Toast, Ciabatta or Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad
Butterfly Shrimp Bagel with sides; Fruit Bowl. Appetisers
4 Seasoned golden fried jumbo shrimp with Coffees & Teas Ahee Shrimp
potato wedges and cole slaw. Caffé Americano; Cappuccino; Macchiato; Italian Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Greek Feta Cheese Salad Dragon’s Well; English Breakfast.
Romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and Sandwiches
house dressing with Feta cheese and olives. Smoothies Beef Hamburger
Lambie CrewsInn Smoothie; Frappuccino. Club Sandwich
Lambie slowly cooked in a house coconut Soups and Salads Catch of the day
curried with basmati rice and tostones. Paninis, Wrap and Bagel Specials from the grill
Chicken Tika Masala Ham and Cheese; Turkey and Cheese; Chicken; Grilled Lobster Tail
Halal Chicken breast marinated in masala Cheese; BLT; Steak; Tuna; Mediterranean. Surf n Turf
curry, chickpeas, tomatoes and cilantro on Meat Lovers Mixed Grill
Sides
Jazmin Rice.
Sausage Patty; Virginia Ham; Bacon; Signature Steaks
Swiss Cheese; Smoked Salmon; Toast. 8 oz Tenderloin
10 oz Rib-eye

Our quaint coffee shop, Caffé Del Mare, is a

Everything tastes better ‘al fresco’, so whether
you are at Ocean Grill, just for the day or the
weekend, tempt your tastebuds with any of our
menu selections.
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.
Opening hours Monday to Thursday 8:00 am -
6:00 pm. Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays
8:00 am - 8:00 pm.
Free WIFI zone.
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 a delicate
pink and peach of the sunrise to a dramatic
gold and sapphire of the sunset, from the
breezy, open air covered deck, with the
company of our delectable cocktails.

Tel (868) 607-4000 (option 5 or 1646) Tel (868) 607-4000 (option 4 or 1645)
Tel (868) 634-4319 Fax (868) 634-4175 Fax (868) 634-4175
Address Chaguaramas, Trinidad & Tobago Address Point Gourde, Chaguaramas, Address Point Gourde, Chaguaramas,
Email info@chaquacabana Trinidad, West Indies Trinidad, West Indies
www.chaquacabana.com inquiries@crewsinn.com inquiries@crewsinn.com
Lunch, Dinner, Parking Available $$ www.crewsinn.com $ www.crewsinn.com

122 Good Food, Good Mood

 Dolce Desserts The Dreamy Creamy 519
Sample Menu Ice Cream Company Restaurant & Bar
BREAKFAST
Sample Menu Sample Menu
Crab and Cream Cheese Omelette - 3 eggs,
Real Crab Meat, Cream Cheese, Onions. Flavour Listing Lunch
Buljol Omelette Cherry Vanilla –Vanilla ice cream infused with Fish Broth;
3 Eggs * Buljol (Saltfish/Smoked Herring) A chopped maraschino Cherries. 519 Burger;
Local Favorite. Chocolate – Ice Cream made with a blend of Classic Bread Pudding.
Breakfast Skillets Hershey’s and Cadbury’s Chocolate. Dinner
LUNCH Popular Flavour Listing Curry Duck Wontons;
Kale & Quinoa Salad Barbadine – Ice cream made with fresh Chicken and Biscuits;
Barbadine fruit. Warm White and Dark Chocolate
Cranberry Romaine Salad
Coconut – Ice cream made with fresh coconut Chip Bread Pudding.
Smoked Salmon Pasta cream from coconuts grown in Trinidad.
Lobster Mac n’ Cheese Dreamy Creamy Signature Flavour Listing
Caramella Nut – Vanilla based ice cream with
$50 weekday Lunch Special chopped peanuts Hershey’s Chocolate syrup
1/2 panini 1/2 soup & iced tea. and Hershey’s Caramel syrup.
Manzanilla Madness – Coconut ice cream with
chopped peanuts and Hershey’s
chocolate pieces.

519 Restaurant & Bar is a social hub located

Nestled in the heart
of San Fernando, this
authentic and exquisitely
designed European Café
is conveniently located
with ample parking. Our
chefs enjoy preparing
creamy and delicious cakes daily, from our
gelatin-free, rich chocolate cake mousses to
our light and fresh strawberry cream cakes.
We specialise in Wedding Cakes as well as
Dessert Tables. Dolce Desserts specialises in
Artisan Stone Baked Sourdough Breads daily,
containing no artificial yeast or preservatives.
Tel (868) 221-4545
20-22 Cipero Street, Cross Crossing,
San Fernando, Trinidad, W.I.
Opens Tuesday thru Thursday 7am-6pm
Friday thru Saturday 7am-7pm
Sunday 8am-12pm Closed Mondays $
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.
Tel (868) 223-8664
Address Coffee Street, San Fernando.
• SS Erin Road, Debe. • Gasparillo Mall,
Gasparillo. • Maraval Plaza Saddle Rd, Maraval.
mrcsmith@gmail.com
Over 30 Flavours
in south Trinidad. It is a trendy open-space for
‘liming’ and dining. Guests are just as likely to
come for the famed Sweet Potato Oil Down as
they watch a prize fight or a Game of Thrones
Episode! Plus 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 sought after SexyNGrown
Bellini and Sir Courtney!
Open Hours – Monday and Tuesday at 4:00
p.m. to midnight. Wednesday, Thursday and
Sunday from noon to midnight. Friday and
Saturday from noon to 3:00 a.m.
Tel (868) 220-0519
Address Courtyard C3 Centre,
San Fernando, Trinidad, W.I.
Email 519trinidadandtobago@gmail.com
Facebook 519Trinidad
Instagram @519Trinidad
$ Takeaway, Pickup, Dine-In $

Good Food, Good Mood 123

 Flavours
Restaurant
Sample Menu
Appetisers
Panko Crusted Midbay Shrimp
Marinated deep fried Shrimps in a breaded
crust with zesty Ginger Mayonnaise.
Wood Raised Rain Forest Cream of
Mushroom Soup
Fresh Mushrooms slowly cooked
in a cream base.
Mains
Simply Lobster
Fire Grilled lobster tail served with Thai Chilli or
Grand Marnier Mornay sauce.
Black Pepper Crusted Beef Tenderlion
Beef Tenderlion served with a Brandy infused
Peppercorn sauce.
Regent Pork Ribs
Succulent rack of ribs grilled to perfection and
simmered in a signature Creole Sauce.
Shrimp Fajita
Marinated Shrimp sautéed with bell peppers
& pink onions infused with a Mexican sauce
served with black beans and flour tortilla.
Flavours Restaurant
• Modern design • Exceptional Signature Food
• Impeccable Service
• Our menus are of a unique flair influenced
from cultures around the world
• Dining Hours 6:00am to 11:00pm
The Rocks Bar & Lounge
• Extensive selection of cocktails,
local and international liquors
• VIP Lounge
• Outdoor Open Air Wooden Decks
Tel (868) 669-(STAR) 7827 Fax 669-7000
Address Regent Star Hotel
118-119 BWIA Boulevard, Piarco, Trinidad
Email info@regentstarhotel.com
www.theregentstarhotel.com $-$$$$
124 Good Food, Good Mood
Himchuli
Restaurant
Sample Menu
(ALL MEAT’S HALAAL)
Appetisers
Veg /Chicken Mo: Mo Mince Veg / Chicken
with Fresh Seasoning and Spiced Filled in
Homemade Pastry Dough (Steam).
Main Course
Chicken Tikka Masala
Tandoori Chicken Cooked in Tomato, Onion
and Cashew Paste with Indian Spices.
Thai Panang Curry
Boneless Lamb cooked with Thai spices,
Coconut Milk Powder and Fresh Herbs.
Kofta Manchurian
Mix Veg with Chef special spices deep fried
and served in a Manchurian sauce.
Naan
Garlic Naan
Peshwari Naan
Deserts
Naram Garam / Rasmalai
Himchuli Restaurant existed since the 22nd
September 2014, we are known for Authentic
Indian, Nepali Cuisine and a Variety of Indian
Sweets. We have expanded our menu with
Chinese Hakka and Thai Food. We do catering
for all occasion, private dining area, take away,
we also do reservations. No Alcohol served.
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00am
– 9:00pm
Tel (868) 675-8616, 782-8489
Address 101 El Socorro Road, San Juan
Email himchulitt@gmail.com
Lunch, Dinner, Take away, Catering,
Private dining area, Reservation $$ www.hayleysbuffetandbar.com
HAYLEY’S
Buffet & Bar
Sample Menu
Soups
Caribbean Corn Soup
Salads
Baby Spinach and Mushroom Salad, Hayley’s
Mediterranean Salad.
Appetizers
Cajun Seafood Medley; Sweet Thai Chili wings;
Tamarind Prawns; Hayley’s Surf’n Turf Taster.
Mains
Salmon Scampi with Mushroom & Spinach
pasta; Rack of Lamb; 12oz Ribeye Steak;
Hayley’s Ribs and Shrimp;
Hayley’s umami Burger.
Desserts
Warm Brownie A La Mode;
New York Cheese cake; Crème Caramel.
Hayley’s Buffet and Bar is a
casual-dining restaurant that
caters to both families and business customers.
With over 30 years in the hospitality industry,
our staff strives to ensure that your dining
experience is always memorable and that each
event held at Hayley’s is a resounding success.
These events include Wine Tastings and
Product Launches among others. Our business
customers can also create an account with us
for additional benefits.
GREAT CHEF, GREAT FOOD, GREAT TIME!
Tel: (868) 640-8539; 221-5873
Address: Trincity Industrial Estate,
Corner of Tissue Drive & Churchill
Roosevelt Highway, Tacarigua
Email: hayleysbuffetandbar@gmail.com
Takeaway, Pickup $$
 Lime Inn
Sample Menu
Starters
Creamy Crab Soup
Gazpacho with parmesan cheese
& “gambas marrakech”.
Cucumber Soup with chilli-glazed scallops
Acajou chicken salad.
Tuna Fish Salad with walnuts, Gorgonzola
& roasted beetroot.
Mains
Pesto Linguine & Grilled Eggplant
topped with parmesan cheese.
Caribbean Rub Chicken with pineapple
and papaya salsa (picture).
Grilled Red Snapper with lemongrass,
grapefruit salsa, pack choi & basmati rice.
Duck Breast with anjomole, pumpkin creme
and roast root vegetables.
BBQ Pork Loin with roast vegetables,
long beans & cauliflower creme.
Desserts
Nut and Chocolate Tart with grapefruit sorbet
Grilled Pineapple with Rum Sabayon and
Coconut Ice Cream.
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.
Tel (868) 670-3771
Fax (868) 670-4566 Tel (868) 664-2888/3888
Address Acajou Hotel, Grande Riviere,
Trinidad
Email info@acajoutrinidad.com
www.acajoutrinidad.com
Available for Functions, Lunch, Dinner
Asian Fusion
Restaurant
Sample Menu
Main Course
Spicy Shrimp and Garlic Broccoli
Stir-fried shrimp in Chinese pepper with
mouth-watering sautéed carrots and sweet
peppers. Freshly sautéed broccoli in garlic
herbed sauce.
Asian Fusion Restaurant is a place where you
can experience authentic original Chinese
cuisine, as well as home away from home
local delicious dishes with a variety of choices.
Whether you dine-in or takeaway, food is
always freshly served and we strive for 100%
satisfaction. Our restaurant is not just about
selling food but creating a family environment
for each member of your family with excellent
comfort and service. Local/Creole and
Chinese Bar available.
Open Hours: Sunday to Monday 10:00 a.m.
to 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m.
to 9:30 p.m.
Address #13 Hollis Avenue, Arima
(Opposite Veladrome)
Email Asian_Fusion620@yahoo.com
Facebook AsianFusionArima@fb.com
Dine-In, Takeaway, Catering, Functions$$
Good Food, Good Mood
TAMNAK THAI
Sample Menu
Appetiser
Tom Yum Gung
(World Famous Hot & Spicy Soup)
Clear broth with pawns and mushrooms with a
distinctive flavour of lemon grass and
roasted chilli paste
Main Course
Gaeng/Kaew-Wan Gai
Chicken curries prepared in red or green curry
paste and sautéed with fresh vegetables, coconut
milk, herbs and spices indigenous to Thailand
Kak-Ob
Spicy oven-baked rack of spring lamb stuffed with
shrimp, chicken and selected Thai seasoning,
served in chef’s special sauce
Tamnak Thai “House fit for a King”. Housed
above its sister restaurant, Apsara, newly
remodeled with furniture and fittings fit for
royalty. Japanese/Sushi is on our menu dinners
giving it an Asian culinary twist. You can choose
to enjoy meals in an enclosed glass patio
looking onto a beautiful garden or dine in one
of the exquisitely decorated dining rooms. After
the meal, diners are invited to the rooftop, to
enjoy cocktails or try our selection of cigars at
“Old Havana”; or simply dance the night away
at our luxurious, Thai-themed lounge, “Siam”.
Open for lunch Monday to Friday 11:00 a.m. to
3:00 p.m. and Dinner - Monday to Sunday 6:00
p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Tel (868) 625-0647, 625-9715,
625-6061, 621-0459; Fax: (868) 625-6061
Address Level 2, #13 Queen’s Park
Savannah East, Port-of-Spain
Email reservations@tamnakthaitt.com
Lunch, Dinner, Bar, Take Away,
Private Functions $$$
125
 Morsels Al-Haaq NICHOSSA
Sample Menu Sample Menu Restaurant
Specialty Cakes; Main Course Sample Menu
Cupcakes; We specialise in the
French Macaroons; best tasting grilled food: Breakfast – Mexican omelette,
Cake Pops; chicken, fish, lamb, shrimp. Belgian waffle, croissant.
Brownies; Sides Special Café Meals – Stuffed chicken breast,
French Desserts; roast beef and gravy, blackened shrimp.
Macaroni salad, potato salad, noodles,
Tea Plates, fried rice, fries and wedge fries, Italian – Vegetable lasagna, chicken &
Snack Boxes; sumptuous beef and chicken burgers. shrimp fettuccine Alfredo.
Savoury Menu. Salads – Sesame chicken salad,
All meats HALAL
Tex Mex steak salad.
AL-HAAQ, THE HOME OF BAR-B-QUE
and the famous “Hotter than Hot” Paninis – Grilled chicken & bacon,
AL HAAQ pepper-sauce. Portobello mushroom.
Wraps – Maracas shark, Tandoori chicken.
Burgers – Beef, turkey, salmon or vegetarian.
Sweet Things – Opera cake, French
macaroons, date squares.
Savoury Bites – Beef pies, cheese puffs,
chicken quiche.

Morsels is Trinidad’s
#1 online bakery,
focused on catering,
through online &
telecommunication
ordering processes,
promoting less in-
store hassle, easy down-
payment options via account number, drop off
or collection, fresh made when ordered items,
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 & hassle free. With an
active WIFI 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, Cake Wars.
Tel (868) 393-5066
Address Bay View, La Romaine, San Fernando
Email morsels@hotmail.com
Corporate and Private Catering,
Weddings, Birthdays, Parties,
Special Occasions, Events dinner, catering for functions $
Al-HAAQ, which means “the Truth”, had its
humble beginnings on a half-barrel. It has
a well-earned reputation for authentic BBQ
dishes, having grown to be one of the most
popular grill shops in Chaguanas. Also known
for its popular Hotter Than Hot pepper sauce,
Al-HAAQ is 100% local, and offers only the
best grilled food, prepared from the best, fresh
seasoning and finest ingredients in T&T.
Truth be told, AL-HAAQ is THE HOME of
Bar B Que.
Tel (868) 672-2903
Address Montrose Main Road, Chaguanas
Piarco International Airport Outdoor
Food Court, Trinidad
Facebook Al Haaq Bar B Que
Caribbean Ltd
Eat In or Takeaway $
Nominated in three categories at the “Table
Talk” awards in 2016 and now celebrating 16
years, we are proud to invite you to our café-
styled 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 the chocolate mousse
cake and the red velvet cheesecake. Open
Monday-Saturday 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, this
restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
Tel (868) 652-8912
Address Rainbow Plaza, Gulf View Link
Road, Gulf View, San Fernando
Email nichossa@live.com
Specialty bakery, breakfast, lunch,

126 Good Food, Good Mood

 Toppers
Restaurant & Bar
Sample Menu
Main Course
Full / Half Rack of Ribs
BBQ Pork Ribs slow-cooked, melt-off-the-bone
Pork Ribs, served with fresh hot French Fries
and Onion Rings.
Grilled Tilapia
Broiled fillet of Tilapia served on a bed of rice
pilaf and seasonal vegetables.
Top 7oz Sirloin
Tender cuts of steak, grilled to perfection, served
with fresh hot French Fries and Onion Rings.
Private Reserve Ribeye Steak
Premium Steak cut to include the flavourful
cap and the juicy tip. A luxurious cut that
leaves nothing to chance. Served with a choice
of two sides.
Enjoy the best of all worlds at Toppers
Restaurant & Bar. Choose from our international
menu of appetisers, entrees & desserts or relax
with one of our many handcrafted cocktails.
Dine indoors in air-conditioned comfort or
relax on our spacious covered outdoor deck.  a wonderful dining experience. An appetising
Thursdays we take you back with all Retro
music videos on our 15 LCD screens and ‘live’
bands at 9:00 pm. Hours of Operation:
Sun - Thur 11:00 am - 11:00 pm
Fri & Sat 11:00 am - 1:00 am
“Great food, Awesome
drinks, Exciting times...”
Tel (868) 645-8677
Address Grand Bazaar, Valsayn
Tel (868) 653-8677
Address South Park Mall, Tarouba
Facebook ToppersTT
Lunch, Dinner, Parking Available $$
J-ZZ’S
International
Steak House
Sample Menu
Appetizers/Starters
Shrimp Cocktail, Crab Back, Buffalo Wings,
Escargot, Jalapeño Poppers, Onion Rings,
J-ZZ’S Golden or Sauteed Calamari Rings.
Seafood Catch of the Day, Pink Salmon,
Lobster (Grilled/Broiled), Surf ’n Turf.
Steaks Fillet Mignon, Rib Eye,
New York Strip, T-Bone Porterhouse,
Pork Ribs.
Baby Back Ribs, Lamb, Pork
Enjoy sizzling steaks @ our international
family lounge or Lime & Dine at our world
class bars. Located in the industrial town
of Couva, one minute’s drive from Point
Lisas, in central Trinidad. With the widest
range of cocktails you could ever imagine,
J-ZZ’S has three bars, with a separate
smoke-deck bar, plus a
conference room with its
own bar and full business
and training facilities. J-ZZ’S
has over 20 screens for your
comfort and caters for private
parties and functions as well.
Entire ground floor furnished
with open Wi-Fi facility.
Reservations (868) 636-5997 (JZZS)
Address Corner Gibbs Street and
Southern Main Road, Couva, Trinidad
Web www.J-zzs.com
Special Catering and Local Cuisine
Good Food, Good Mood
The Rise
Grill & Bar
Restaurant
Sample Menu
Appetiser
Chicken Wings
Style (Jerk, BBQ, Buffalo, Hong Kong and
Pepper wings).
Geera pork , Rise Signature Pepper Lamb,
Pepper Beef.
Shrimp (Hong Kong, Pepper Shrimp, Batter
Fried, Grilled Sharable Platters Seafood platter,
Vegatarian platter, Tomato Bruchetta.
Lunch & Dinner Special
Rise Signature Pesto Burger;
Classic Smokey BBQ ribs; Bone in Ribeye;
Fillet Mignon; Parmesan Chicken;
Lobster; Catch of Day.
Sides
Baked Potato; Sweet Potato Fries;
Garlic Smashed Potato; Vegetables Rice;
Grilled Corn On the Cob; Plaintains.
The Rise Grill & Bar Restaurant invites you to
international menu to choose from while you
enjoy live entertainment. Great food and drinks
served by warm friendly customer service
representatives. Lunch specials
starting from TT$35.00.
Safe and secure parking
available.
Tel (868) 665-5627
Mobile (868) 685-1723
LP 62, Rodney Road, Endeavor Rd.,
Lange Park, Chaguanas, Trinidad, W.I.
Email riserestauranttt@yahoo.com $$
127
3D Map: Ernest Matthews
Tobago Heritage Festival
Photo: Andrea de Silva
 T
By Roslyn Carrington
obago Heritage Festival
Tobago’s annual Heritage Festival is an explosion of traditional
song, dance, drama, food, drink and …nostalgia. It’s like opening
a time capsule, unearthing a chest of ancestral gems.

The calm and sunny skies of Tobago belie a turbulent history. Over several hundred
years, the isle has been invaded by tribes hostile to the indigenous people, followed by
the French, Dutch, and English imperialists; then came annexation and independence.
With every arrival, new traditions took root. Today, Tobago celebrates this legacy during
its Heritage Festival, which runs for two weeks in villages and towns across the island,
until August 1st, the Emancipation Day holiday.
The Moriah Ole Time Wedding is an elaborate bit of street theatre that involves a
mock wedding ceremony between an elaborately dressed bride and her dapper, top-
hatted groom. They’re accompanied by men in stove-pipe hats and tails, and women in
satin gowns, their gloved hands clutching parasols or bouquets. The “wedding party”

132 Festivals
 Moriah Ole Time Wedding
Tobago Heritage Festival
Photos: Wendell Nana-Moore/ FlashBooth
makes its way through the streets towards the celebration hall,
often dancing the “brush-back” or the “reel and jig”, while the
musicians play Tambrin drums, fiddles and flutes.
On Charlotteville National Treasures Day, villagers demonstrate
“dancing the cocoa”, a process similar to grape-stomping that
prepares the beans for further processing; as well as the more
sombre funereal tradition of “washing the dead-bed”.
Musicians drum out rhythms on the Tamboo Bamboo, lengths
of bamboo with a booming echo, while dancers Limbo low.
Others bake bread in clay ovens, wash clothes on washboards
by the river, and juice stalks of sugar cane with a simple press
called a “Batty Mill”.
Select villages, such as Les Coteaux and Pembroke, host
musical performances featuring elaborately costumed
performers who sing folk songs, dance the Bele, and produce
skits. There are also presentations of old-time games that
are certain to make children put down their cell phones and
join in hoop-rolling,
top-spinning, and egg-and-
spoon races. For those who dare
climb to the top of the greasy pole, there’s a prize waiting!
Of course, you can’t celebrate our festivals without Carnival,
even if it’s out of season. The Plymouth Old-Time Carnival and
J’ouvert is as muddy, paint-splashed and fun as the original.
Another must-see is the Pulling of the Seine at Black Rock, in
which villagers gather to help fishermen bring in the nets. There’s
often a sharing of the day’s catch for anyone who helps.
Tobagonians are justifiably proud of their history, and nowhere
does it show more than in the pageantry and sheer exuberance
of the Tobago Heritage Festival.
Find out more at tobagoheritagefestival.com
or call 639-4441 /5016.
Email: tobagoheritagefestival@yahoo.com
Festivals 133
 Stewart is acutely
aware that the
trail he’s blazing is an
inspiration for budding
Paralympic athletes
across T&T
meet a Tobagonian
Photo: Allan V Crane
Akeem Stewart
Paralympic Champion
By Sheldon Waithe
He’s got the full complement of medals available on
the international stage and for good measure, a few
world records along the way. Yet Akeem Stewart - Olympic
Gold and Silver medallist, World Champion and Para-Pan
Am Games Champion - is not resting on his laurels.
Given that he secured that Rio 2016 gold with two
world record javelin throws within the space of an hour,
eclipsing his world’s best set at the World Championships
the previous year, Stewart still feels that there is work to
be done. The thirst to improve previous performances
and test the limits of his ability is a major driving factor
for the Tobagonian competitor. Stewart is acutely aware
that the trail he’s blazing is an inspiration for budding
Paralympic athletes across T&T: “These medals helped to
bring awareness within Trinidad and Tobago as I had a
lot of media attention and the public reaction was really
good.”
His phenomenal success is in good company alongside
fellow Trinidadian Keshorn Walcott, the London Olympic
2012 javelin gold medallist. Akeem takes it further, not
only pressuring that shoulder with javelin throws but also
with the weight of the discus and shot put. If the intensity
of competing in three field events seems daunting,
Stewart has the advantage of longevity and lineage, “I got
involved in athletics at the age of seven and eventually I
gravitated to the shot put because my father was a shot
putter, my brother was a shot putter, and my uncle was a
134 Feature
shot putter, so I just carried on with the family tradition.”
That tradition and the subsequent results that have
made him a Paralympic star, led to Stewart getting
a head start for the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. In late
2017, he toured Japan after accepting the offer of being
the subject of a documentary that will form part of the
promotion of the Games. While there, Stewart underwent
a number of biomechanical tests which convinced
him that he is still not fulfilling his maximum potential.
Naturally, this has created further motivation to add to
the medal tally. “I discovered what I have been doing
to contribute to my strength and power.......and my
weaknesses. I have to do more strength training.”
This is liable to cause alarm bells to his
competitors from other nations. Stewart is seeking
to become stronger? Consider that at the 2017 World
Championships he was unable to rotate during the shot
put due to injury, so instead he let fly from a standing
position and broke the world record by almost five
metres.
Away from the field and the gym, he is constantly
researching technique and learning more about his
abilities and how to maximise them. “One of the reasons
why I am able to throw far distances with little effort is
mostly because the length of my arms is longer than
usual.” Which is just as well, because Akeem Stewart
cannot stop reaching for the stars.
Tobago Festivals
By Roslyn Carrington

Tobago has an undeniable beauty and serenity,

but just like its coral reefs, there’s also life,
colour and energy teeming beneath the surface.

Tobago Carnival
Although smaller than its Trinidad counterpart, it’s great fun; join a
Carnival band, concoct your own costume, or stand on the sidelines,
snapping away and getting into the groove. Great attention is paid to
the more traditional elements of mas’ here, like old-time characters
and impromptu musical “sides”.

Crab and Goat Races

Easter time is exciting, with fairs and events being held in almost
every village. The Buccoo Village Goat and Crab Race Festival takes
place on the Tuesday after Easter. Watch “jockeys” sprint alongside
their fleet-footed goats, in a race where the competition is fierce. Even
more unusual is the crab race, in which bewildered blue crabs wander
along the track. While the winner may earn cheers at the finish line,
even success won’t keep this crab out of the curry pot!

St. Peter’s Day

As people who often depend heavily on the ocean for a
living, Tobagonians often pay homage to the sea. The Feast
of St. Peter begins with church services in seaside villages,
followed by the blessing of the boats, to ensure safe travels
and bountiful hauls over the year. This is followed by
feasting, music and laughter well into the night.

Harvest
Traditional African and Christian customs meld during
Harvest festivals, celebrated in thanksgiving for fertile land and
bountiful crops. A service in the village church is followed by the
breaking of bread among neighbours, song, drama and good cheer.

The Great Race

The Great Race is the largest of the local boat races, with powerboats
blistering their way across the waters between Trinidad and Tobago.
The event has expanded to fill an entire weekend, with round the clock
fêtes.

Blue Food Festival

Celebrating the versatility of root vegetables, especially the delicious
blue-tinged dasheen, the Blue Food Festival is part cooking contest,
part picnic. You can taste “oil down”, dasheen fritters, fries, pies… and
ice cream.

Top: Crab and Goat Races Bottom: Tobago Carnival Photos: Piotr Andrews
Inset: Curried Crab Photo: Gary Jordan

Festivals 135
 No Man's Land
Photo: Jason Sookermany
 Paradise Gained
Sight Seeing in Tobago
By Jason Radix

The branding of “Clean, Green, Safe & Serene” resonates

when travelling across Tobago’s 116 square miles. Historically,
Tobago was the most sought after territory in the Caribbean,
changing hands over 30 times from the early 1500s to the
1800s. The names of towns and villages from Les Coteaux to
Lambeau, Glamorgan to Signal Hill, the remains of plantations,
forts and churches, the landscape, language, music and cuisine
all reflect the island’s diverse heritage.

Forts & Batteries

Spread across the island, each site is
rich in history and intrigue, with rolling
hills and panoramic views of both the
Atlantic and Caribbean coasts.
Fort King George in Scarborough
is the largest of these and sits above
the Capital with an expansive view of
the Atlantic Ocean and an impressive
view of Trinidad’s north-eastern tip. It is
open daily to the public with an onsite
Museum and Lighthouse, and is widely
used for photoshoots and picnicking.
Fort James is located in the town of
Plymouth, and it is the oldest fort on
the island. Overlooking Grand Courland
Bay with views to Pigeon Point on the
Caribbean side. Its rustic structure
with the coral-façade for the powder
magazine alongside impressive cannons
all add to the ambiance. Also within
walking distance are the Mystery Tomb
of Betty Stiven and the Courlanders
Monument built in tribute to the first
European settlers.
Additionally, it is worth visiting Fort
Bennet located in Black Rock, Fort
Milford in Crown Point, Fort Granby
in Studley Park, Fort Betsey’s Hope in
Betsey Hope and Fort Cambleton in
Charlotteville. These were considerably
smaller defenses and although devoid
Fort King George of powder magazines (making them
Inset: 18th Century Cannon
Photos: Jason Sookermany Batteries), they are equally interesting
sites.

138 Get Out and About

 Overlooking Great
Courland Bay, with
four cannons pointing
to sea, this Fort was
established in the
1760s by the British.
Named after James,
Duke of Courland,
the Fort boasts a
spectacular view.

Fort James
Photo: Jason Sookermany
Inset: Argyle Waterfall
Photo: Stephen Jay Photography

Main Ridge Forest Reserve Little Tobago or

Near the middle of the island is a significant feature for
visiting nature lovers, the oldest protected forest in the western
hemisphere, which was proclaimed as a protected area in 1776.
The rainforest reserve covers an area of just under 4,000 hectares
with several demarcated hiking trails.
Guided tours can be arranged with any of the resident certified
guides who operate in the area or through the Bloody Bay Visitor
Centre. Walking tours along the forest trails are always rewarding
with regular sightings of native flora and fauna.
Waterfalls
Although few waterfalls exist on the island, they are all relatively
easy to get to with little effort. The most popular and highest of
these is the Argyle Waterfall which is open daily to the public with
guided tours led through a lush cocoa estate. Both the Castara and
Parlatuvier Waterfalls are also worth the trip.
Bird of Paradise Island
The one-kilometre sanctuary island of Little Tobago,
located just off the coast of Speyside, is another on
the list of places to visit in Tobago. Daily glass-bottom
boat tours are available from the village to witness the
diverse pelagic and perching birds seen throughout the
year.
Walking tours on the island end with intimate views
from the cliff’s edge of hundreds of nesting and foraging
sea-birds. The glass-bottom boat views and snorkelling
opportunities of the many surrounding coral reefs are
spectacular.
Trips to Buccoo Reef, Nylon Pool and No Man’s Land,
any of the many pristine beaches, amazing dive-sites,
scenic look-outs, historical buildings, cafés, restaurants,
bar and hotels, are ready for you to explore.

Get Out and About 139

 Pirates Bay
At the north-eastern tip of the island is a seafront
spot that is remote and mysterious. A beach that
is loved by all who visit. This sheltered bay was
supposedly a hide-out for roving Pirates, today it’s
one of the most popular beaches on the north end
of the island.
Photo: Jason Sookermany
Batteaux Bay
Translated as “Bay of the Boats”, it is a short shoreline
nestled between Tyrrel and Belmont Bays. It’s a popular
site for scuba, snorkelling, glass bottom boat and
bird-watching tours to and around Little Tobago Island.
The calm clear waters also make it appealing to regular
beach goers.
Photo: Jason Sookermany
Arnos Vale Beach
The favourite Tobago beach of this author is the
beautiful cove on the Caribbean Coast, accessible
from the town of Plymouth through to the horseshoe
shaped bay with its golden-sand beach. Shallow
reefs can be seen from the shore, making it one of
the best snorkelling sites on the island.
Photo: Jason Sookermany

Beach More
By Jason Radix

Wor r y L e s s

Pigeon Point
Photo: Jason Sookermany
 No Man’s Land
A signature attraction for residents and
visitors, often featured in combination with the
nearby Nylon Pool. There are daily boat tours
to the pristine uninhabited sandy fringe which
is an extension of the Bon Accord Lagoon.
Photo: Jason Sookermany
Buccoo Point
Most famous for the weekly steelband show,
live performances (called Sunday School), and
Goat Racing during the Easter Holidays, it is
also a scenic spot for swimming, horseback
riding or to simply enjoy the beautiful sunsets.
Photo: Piotr Andrews
Mt. Irvine Beach
A popular family beach with picnic sheds,
changing rooms, bar and restaurant facilities.
Most famous for the seasonal ocean swells
which attract local and visiting surfers.
Photo: Piotr Andrews
 24 Hours
IN TOBAGO
By Duane Kenny

Touring Tobago will leave you breathless, from the

scenic beauty to the folk tales that make the isle so
unique. A drive from Crown Point along Shirvan Road,
through Arnos Vale and the Northside Road, has just
the right mix of lush rainforest with stunning views
of the coast. The destination is the serene beauty of
Castara Village.

Along the way you will drive through the village of Les
Coteaux, where you can't miss the monumental Silk Cotton Tree
encroaching on the road. This tree is the inspiration for one of
Tobago's great folk tales. The story is of a mystical spirit, a witch
named Gang Gang Sarah, who flew to Tobago to emancipate
the slaves, fell in love and married, living a long, happy life in
the Caribbean island. After her spouse died, she decided to
return to her African homeland using magical powers of flight.
Unfortunately, Sarah had eaten salt earlier in the day with a meal
(which is a no-no in the witch world), as a result she lost her
powers of flight and on jumping from the tree, fell to her death.
A sad tale of love and heartbreak.
You may hear of more folklore once you arrive at Castara.
Head to a restaurant on the north side of the beach, it’s a great
place to grab a cold beer or a delicious lunch. The white sand
and emerald waters are lovely but it's also made more unique by
the visiting southern stingray, often seen in the bay.
The more adventurous can swim to the north point and the
bay beyond, where the marine life is rich and diverse. After
a lazy morning on the beach, head to Castara's waterfalls.
It's a short drive to the football field situated just opposite
to the school, then a quick walk along the south side of the
field where a river hugs the outskirts. Follow this river for 10
minutes and you will reach the waterfall where you can wash
off the salt water and rejuvenate yourself with a refreshing
bath.
After a full day of exploring, you will enjoy the nearby
restaurant that boasts one of the best views in Tobago,
overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy the local cuisine, have a
cocktail or early dinner before the drive home.
Castara Bay
Photo: Andrea de Silva
Inset: Silk Cotton Tree
Photo: Christopher Anderson

142 Get Out and About

Sherman’s Auto Rentals
This vibrant, service-oriented company is operated by a
staff that is dedicated to tourism in Tobago. We boast over
20 years in the Automobile Industry and today we offer Car
Rental Services on the beautiful island of Tobago. Our clients
are offered a choice of quality vehicles including cars, buses
and SUVs. Meeting and greeting on arrival at the airport or at
your holiday accommodation.
Tel (868) 639-2292 Fax 868) 639-3084
U.S. direct line: 1 (469) 532-2544
U.K. direct line: 1 (011) 44 (865) 594706
Address Lambeau Village, Tobago, W.I.
Email shermansautorentals@gmail.com | www.shermansrental.com
Get Out and About
Rattan’s Car Rental / Rainbow Resort
A family run business operating for over 30 years, offering
affordable car and apartment rental service. Located a two-
minute drive from the airport and walking distance to mini
marts, shopping plaza, banks/ATM and some of the best
beaches (Pigeon Point and Store Bay). Our homely apartment
comes with a full kitchenette, a/c bedrooms, private patio
and a swimming pool. FREE pick up and drop off to the airport
with the rental of a vehicle. SUVs to sedans all fully loaded.
Tel/Fax 1 (868) 639-8271 (Rattan’s Car Rental)
Tel/Fax 1 (868) 639-9940 (Rainbow Resort)
Address Milford Road, Crown Point, Tobago
rainbowresorttobago@hotmail.com | www.rainbowresorttobago.com
143
Tobago Fashion Coda
Photo: Andrea de Silva
Tobago
Shopping 2018
By Roslyn Carrington

Shopping in Tobago is such an unadulterated pleasure that

you can indulge to your hearts content and still remain guilt-free.
There’s so much creativity and colour that you’ll spend almost
as much time choosing your latest treasure as you’ll spend
using it!
The beaches, airport, port and resorts are
always populated by vendors clamouring
for your attention. The first thing to
strike you will be the assortment of
handmade candies. Tobago’s sweets
are legendary: Bene balls and
sticks — toasted sesame seeds in
a crunchy brown sugar coating —
top the most-wanted list, and are
followed by coconut sugar cakes,
nut cakes, and Toolum sticky
with molasses. Stain your fingers Photo: Stephen
Broadbridge
red with sweet and peppery
pickled plums, mangoes and
pommecythère.
Other vendors are eager
to outfit you for your days at
the beach, with sarongs, caps,
straw hats and towels. Loop
Photo: Jason Sookermany strands of beads round your neck
and wrist, and twist them into your hair
for a true vacation vibe. There’ll be souvenirs
aplenty to choose from, including statuettes and ornaments carved
in wood, leather, or clay.
It may be pushing the envelope a bit to call the array of beachside
eating places “shopping” but they’re just too good to pass up!
Store Bay is probably the best known site for foodies to visit, as
the selection of booths and variety of dishes will make your head
spin. Throw your diet sheets out the window and sample traditional
Tobagonian cuisine, like curried crab and dumplings; stewed pork,
red beans and rice; fried fish and ground provisions; or callaloo and
coo-coo (it’s like polenta, but with ochroes; you’ll love it).
Of course, there’s more to Tobago than street fair shopping,
Shoppes@Westcity in Canaan satisfies every shopper's palate and
pocket, offering a variety of clothing and shoe shops, restaurants,
cafés and a well-stocked Penny Savers supermarket.
Mini-malls have been popping up along major thoroughfares, and
Gulf City in Lowlands, located just outside of Scarborough, is home
to Movietowne.
So enjoy the many choices because it’s not a vacation unless
Photo: Stephen Broadbridge
you’re all shopped out!

146 Retail Therapy

Retail Therapy 147

Tobago Plantations Beach & Golf Resort
Photo: Christopher Anderson
148 Investing in the Good Life
Investing Life
in th e Go o d
By Paul Hadden
It’s amazing how much can change in a short
plane ride from Port-of-Spain to Crown Point.
Located just 83 kilometers off the north coast
of Trinidad, Tobago offers visitors a completely
unmatched experience. Where Trinidad sizzles
with energy and movement, Tobago sparkles with
natural beauty. Sporting glittering turquoise water
and countless white sand beaches, untouched rain
forests, vibrant coral reefs, and waterfalls, Tobago
is a haven of unspoilt natural wonder.
For the more historically minded visitor, the many forts scattered across
the island will give some insight into what the island has been through.
A quick look at the linguistic diversity of the names of towns such as Les
Coteaux, Black Rock, and Auchenskeoch also give visitors a glimpse into
Tobago’s turbulent colonial past.
Regardless of budget or accommodation preference, Tobago has
something to meet your needs. From luxury high-end villas and all inclusive
spas, to more modest bed and breakfast accommodations and cozy
cottages by the sea, there are a host of available options for the intrepid
Caribbean traveller. Staying in one of the many hotels near to the airport
will give visitors easy access to two of the more popular beaches on the
island – Store Bay and Pigeon Point, whereas a stay on the east coast
would offer a more relaxed experience, far removed from the bustle of the
touristy hot-spots.
These days, many vacationers are looking to the internet to help them
find accommodation that is just right. Sites like Tripadvisor and Hotels.com
provide visitors not just with information on the properties themselves, but
also with reviews from fellow vacationers. There are also newer options
to consider such as Airbnb which allows visitors to privately rent houses,
apartments, or even just a room in a house.
For those who don’t have the time or desire to conduct extensive
research online, or who desire a more traditional, personalised approach,
there are a host of professional real estate services which can help visitors
find the perfect short-term rental for their vacation. If you are looking for
luxury accommodation, Villas Are Us Ltd. can help you choose from a wide
range of beautiful villas. Other great options like Caribbean Estates, RAIN
Property Management and Sugar Mill Suites at Tobago Plantations, offer
property sales and a variety of both short and long-term rentals.
No matter whether you choose the traditional or the online approach,
finding great accommodation is the first step towards your rejuvenating
Tobago vacation.
RAIN Property Management
We offer a highly personalised service which includes Vacation Villa
Rentals, Property Management, Property Sales, Commercial Rentals,
Long & Short term House Rentals. We go the extra mile, tailoring our
searches to find you land or property to suite your personal needs. We
provide a friendly and efficient service, no matter what your budget. Our
knowledge of the local market enables us to advise you at a professional
level, yet with warmth and friendliness of our island people.
Tel (868) 631-0766, Mobile: (868) 796-0820/497-2955/295-0288
Crown Point Shopping Mall,
Store Bay Local Road (Green Plaza), Crown Point, Tobago
Email rainpropertymanagement@gmail.com
www.rain-properties-tobago.com

Villas Are Us Ltd.

Villas Are Us Ltd. is a small full-service, luxury vacation agency offering
villas that are all beautifully appointed and among the most ideally
situated, on the Caribbean side of the island. Though each has its own
unique appeal, all offer the very best in terms of accommodation and
necessary holiday amenities. With Villa Mirage, the one to keep in mind
for all big events near to the beach or poolside, take your pick! Our caring
staff and network of experienced providers are committed to seeing that
your every need is met.
Tel (868) 481-5986 / 326-0543 / 639-4163
Black Rock, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
Email gillian@tobagovillasareus.com
www.tobagovillasareus.com

Caribbean Estates, Lands & Villas

Whether you are looking to purchase your dream home or land, a
holiday villa getaway or a commercial investment, our friendly and
professional staff are on hand to help you find the perfect property.
Our experienced sales and rental agents have extensive knowledge
about the Tobago property and rental market and can advise you in all
aspects of buying, selling or renting.
For beautiful properties throughout Tobago,
Residential and Commercial Sales and Holiday Villa Rentals.
Tel: (868) 639-LAND / 639-5263 / 639-9663; Fax: (868) 639-2258
Address Cor. Milford & Golden Grove Roads, Canaan, Tobago, W.I.
Email: info@realestatetobago.com; www.realestatetobago.com

Sugar Mill Suites

Sugar Mill Suites (Paradise Rentals Limited) located at Tobago
Plantations Beach & Golf Resort offers luxury vacation rentals in
a beautiful manicured tropical Resort. One can choose between
our comfortable luxurious modern ‘homes’, our elegant old-
fashioned condos style units and our cozy bungalows. These types
of accommodation offers you the conveniences and excellent service
one can expect from a top-class resort. Find out more about Sugar Mill
Suites Condos, Bungalows and Villas to better accommodate you. Life
is always sweeter at Sugar Mill suites!
Tel (868) 631-1054, 639-8000
Tobago Plantations Beach & Golf Resort, Lowlands, Tobago.
Email rentals@tobagoplantations.com www.sugarmilltobago.com

Investing in the Good Life 149

Tobago Jazz Experience
Photo: Andrea de Silva
Shabba Ranks
Photo: Andrea de Silva

All That 'Bago Jazz

World Class Performances By Alva Viarruel

The integration of Caribbean music, arts and culture received a fillip last year as the
Tobago Jazz Experience (TJE) brought together musicians from across the region.

Local acts and in particular Tobago talent, were thrown
into the spotlight and provided world class performances
throughout the week of TJE, which for the first time, also featured
the screening of locally produced films and shorts at select
restaurants.
By the time the curtain came down on TJE 2017, organisers
had already decided to go back to the proverbial drawing board
to ensure that next year’s 10th anniversary show would not only
showcase world class acts, but expand the audience. Jamaican
actress and musician Grace Jones gave a timeless, dramatic
performance that included the chart topper ‘Pull Up To The
Bumper’, and showcased her trademark eclectic costumes.
The closing night Beach Jazz Fiesta featured Barbadian
saxophonist Elan Trotman as well as veteran St Lucian guitarist
Ronald “Boo” Hinkson and his troupe, with lead singer Irvin “Ace”
Loctar giving a memorable performance, as did singer Llettesha
Sylvester, before Grace Jones returned with great fanfare.
The free opening show, Jazz In The East, at the spacious and
picturesque Speyside grounds to the north-east of the island, was
almost filled to capacity by fans well versed in traditional Reggae/
conscious lyrical performances. Jamaican group Morgan Heritage
was the headline act, and Roy “Gramps” Morgan, his brother
Peter, sister Una and their band, did not disappoint.
Singing hits like ‘Perfect Love Song’, ‘She’s Still Loving Me’

152 Limin' Tobago Style

 and the infectious ‘Down By The River’ as well as ‘Mount Zion’
medley, they worked up a genuine sweat and had the crowd
dancing. A cadre of local entertainers featured prominently
at the show. Notable standouts included Gadda Knight and
Stylish Boss, whose brash Reggae routine was world-class,
as was the case with vocalists Stephanie Joseph, Kay Allen,
Janelle Winchester and Adanna.
Interestingly, the Jazz on the Waterfront show at the
Scarborough Esplanade, was a well-executed production on
three stages and provided a memorable night of entertainment.
Local singers Yolanda, Marissa Diaz, Lynette Louis and Matrix the
Band were shown great appreciation by the audience.
World Music night kicked off the weekend at the Pigeon Point
Heritage Park and saw Kes The Band (KTB) with lead vocalist Kees
Dieffenthaller, and rap artist Chromatics delivering outstanding
performances. Haitian-born US-based entertainer Wyclef Jean kept the
place pumping with his unique style of entertainment. It was a case of singing
very little but entertaining a whole lot, as he had the audience in a frenzy with
the re-mix of the Trinidad Carnival 2017 hit “Full Extreme” by Ultimate Rejects, while he
Vaughnette Bigford roamed through the crowd freely and even into the VIP section.
Photo: Andrea de Silva
Jamaican veteran Shabba Ranks brought the curtain down on World Music Night. “Mr
Loverman” performed well-loved classics including ‘Ting A Ling A Ling’ and ‘Telephone Love’
to name a few, gyrating and energising the crowd, proving that he still had what it takes to be
a great entertainer.
Although there wasn’t a Saturday night performance at TJE, a late afternoon musical fiesta
on the stunning Pigeon Point beach was well attended and provided another showcase for
local and regional talent.

154 Limin' Tobago Style

Tobago’s Fashion Weekend
Cool, Candid, Coda
By Roslyn Carrington

Some of the hottest designers and models on the

international fashion scene call the Caribbean home;
growing up surrounded by hummingbird-colours, in a
culture characterised by pageantry and fanfare has no doubt
influenced designers to redefine Caribbean couture.
Tobago Fashion Coda 6 takes place at the Magdalena
Grand Beach and Golf Resort on the 26th April, 2018
coinciding with the popular Tobago Jazz Experience. Here,
established local and international designers share the
runway with young up-and-coming talent, displaying
clothing, accessories and jewellery. Local designers include
Dayle Angus; Yesa Designs; I Say U; Charu Lochan Dass;
Ecliff Elie; and Cee Wee Designs. Organisers also include
students from nearby secondary schools.
Also making a splash is the Tobago Fashion Weekend,
which will be held in 19th to 20th May, 2018 at the Pigeon
Point Heritage Park. This event includes at least two major
fashion shows, along with workshops to boost participants’
knowledge of the process and business of fashion. “Tobago
fashion,” is described as, “fun, more vibrant, more relaxed. It
tells a story about who we are as a people”. Past designers
featured at the event include Amen Printhouse; Stacy Smith;
JESwear by Jillian Salandy; Dominic Hutch; Marie Collette;
Movement Bago; Iris Atsin; and Wadada Movement.

Visit Facebook for more on Tobago Fashion

Coda and Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Week.

Photo: Andrea de Silva

 Pigeon Point
Heritage Park
I was in Tobago recently for some much needed rest and
relaxation. I hadn’t been to Tobago for some time and
couldn’t wait to visit my all-time favourite beach, Pigeon
Point. As I was driving in to spend my afternoon at the
beach, I was pleasantly surprised to see that there was a
wedding set-up on the beach. I had heard all about the
growing popularity of beach weddings, but had not yet
witnessed one. I was impressed by the set up that was
already in place on this beautiful beach. It rivalled wedding
setups that I had seen in magazines before, with the famous
Pigeon Point jetty standing proudly in the background. The
waters lapped softly beckoning you with its hues of aquamarine.

An arch stood as the centre piece,
beautifully and elegantly decorated, purposely
simple in effect but close inspection revealed the
skill in weaving lengths of fabric that only a professional could
do. The arch was surrounded by wooden chairs that were similarly
decorated with corresponding tendrils of fabric and shells that
swayed gently in the afternoon breeze, adding to the rustic fantasy
created by this setup. On such an open beach, this setting gave a
feeling of intimacy. The beauty of the open air and nature was all
around lending its magic to what is for many, the most magical day
of their lives.
I thought of a wedding I attended recently in Trinidad, in an
enclosed ballroom with lots of expensive décor and thought to
myself, if every bride could see this, they would choose to come to
Pigeon Point. The beach is so much better!
Upon enquiring, I learnt that the reception was to be held in
the adjacent Heritage Pavilion. We were allowed a quick peek of
the Pavilion. The view from inside was breathtaking. The Heritage
Pavilion was built on the beach and designed with large glass
windows offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and
coconut trees swaying in the breeze. How clever that you can enjoy
the beauty of the beach, and still be cool in the air-conditioned
Pavilion. I have not seen another building quite like this. Its
simplicity belies the intricate architectural details that allow it to
have such high ceilings with such wide, open, floor space.
There was a gorgeous three-tiered wedding cake and it
rivalled any that I have seen in Trinidad and abroad. Not at all
what I was expecting in this quiet, laid back island of Tobago.
My curiosity got the better of me and I approached a
lady who was evidently in charge, as she bustled around
putting finishing touches to the entire set up. She was a
Wedding Planner and explained that Tobago has a growing
industry catering to Destination Weddings. There is a cadre
of professionals that fulfill your every need on the island,
so it’s all professionally done and stress free. The Tobago
Bridal Association’s membership includes Event Planners,
Decorators, Caterers, Florists and even Dress Makers. Every
need that you could possibly have is fulfilled in Tobago,
making the island even more attractive!
At Pigeon Point Heritage Park, there is also a 3 bedroom
bungalow accommodation unit. It is air conditioned and fully
self-contained and therefore very popular with small families
and wedding couples. It is ideally situated within the gardens,
steps away from the beach and in close proximity to all the
activities that take place at Pigeon Point.
I came away from this visit, resolved to share with
my friends and families the experience I had; without a
doubt, Pigeon Point Heritage Park is my next choice for
accommodation in Tobago! Now, if only I can convince my
best friend to have her wedding there ...
 Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Photo: Piotr Andrews

Tobago Sports
Round Up 2017 ​​​​​By Sheldon Waithe

Sun, sea, sand & sport: paradise encapsulated into 116 square miles which offers
every bit of geography, topography and facility to enjoy your favourite activity.
The perfect year round climate is the icing on the sporting cake that makes
Tobago the go-to-destination. Given Tobago’s size, you’re never far away from an
event and given its culture, you’re in the perfect place to recover.

158 Sport
 Massy Rainbow Cup
Photos: Richard Lyder
With a population of just 60,000, the island has produced
an incredible number of world class athletes; from football
superstar Dwight Yorke to World Athletics Championship double
medallist Kelly Ann Baptiste and Lalonde Gordon, who anchored
the T&T 4x4 relay team to gold in 2017, to add the title of World
Champion to his two Olympic bronze medals.
Akeem Stewart trains exclusively on the island before
departing to take on and beat the world, whether it’s Paralympic
or Pan Am Games or a World Championship. Sport is in the DNA
of Tobago and given its setting, it’s easy to understand why.
The gruelling Sea to Sea Marathon takes runners on a 26 mile
cross-country trek through the forest on a route that connects
the Caribbean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. In 2017, Cuban Richer
Cobas and American Auriela Rutto took the honours with
relatively fast times, while other participants punished their
bodies less along the 10 & 5K events along the same route.
If the sport of triathlon could choose a venue, Turtle Beach
on the northern side of the island would probably suffice as
‘perfect’. A long open bay for the swimming, undulating roads to
test the legs during the cycle section, followed by flat terrain that
finishes through the much-needed shade of towering trees.
The Massy Rainbow Cup ticks all these boxes and much
more. Apart from the Olympic distance main event, its growth in
popularity means that there are now eight other events on the
day to cater for all levels including the always-sold-out ‘Try A Tri’.
The Cup also serves as the T&T National Championships. In that
regard Jason Costelloe took the national title and Jenna Ross
the female equivalent, but neither won the overall event. T&T’s
immediate neighbours claimed the top prizes; Genesis Ruiz
of Venezuela topped the women with Barbadian Jason Miller
getting his second Rainbow Cup seven years after his first.
The head of a dragon on Pigeon Point waters causes no alarm
and instead solicits cheers and applause. Held around the
Labour Day holiday, June 19 in Trinidad & Tobago, it is indeed
hard work for the paddlers taking part in the Tobago Dragon
Boat Festival, which will celebrate its 8th year in 2018.
Sport 159
 Photo: Marcus Gomez

Aquaholics took the 2017 honours In August, the Great

over the two days of competition, which
Race from Trinidad to
reflects the perfect blend of sport and
recreation that the island offers.
Tobago, is one of the
More offerings from the water form most anticipated events
the basis for May’s Tobago International of the year. There is a
Billfishing Tournament. The boat ‘Surf N Turf’ set street parade showcasing
the early pace, reeling in six Blue Marlins on day
Photo: Stephen Broadbridge
the race boats and teams
one and never looked back, holding onto a slim lead
into the final, third day.
before the high-speed
The tennis facility at Shaw Park hosted the globally ranked launch.
Bmobile Junior ITF event, with Alexander Kiefer and Lucia De Santa Ana taking out the
Boys and Girls titles.
Having amazing golf courses means that equally impressive tournaments are
held annually. In 2017 they began early, January’s Monifa Sealy Tournament - named
after Tobago’s female professional golfer currently on the international circuit. AJ
Newell from the USA took the title, beating competitors from every major continent.
The annual Chief Secretary’s Charity Golf Tournament saw over 200 entrants in 2017,
while tournaments such as the Tobago Open (August) and the South Caribbean Open
(September), ensured that the island’s courses were flooded with golfers year round.
The Tobago Cycling Classic took its customary place of October, showcasing the
diversity of the island with fast flat courses, gruelling hills, coastal landscape and
shaded forests. The addition of tropical heat makes for a tough competition, so
challenging that it’s the only race in the region granted global status by the world
governing body for cycling, the UCI. The first week sees a four-stage Tour of Tobago
race, followed by the Classic two days afterwards. Dutchman Peter Schulting arrived
with enough form to win both events, the latter by a massive six minutes. When the
racing was over, the competitors engaged in the prerequisite for all sports people in
Tobago: ‘liming’!
Photo: Jason Sookermany

160 Sport

Fun in
the Water By Duane Kenny
Photo: Duane Kenny
Zoe Snorkelling Charters
Enjoy the beauty of Tobago’s coastline from the comfort of the
only jet boat on island, while we visit locations like the Coral
Garden, Nylon Pool, Arnos Vale, and many more. Our captain
will personally snorkel with you, showing off all of the reefs
natural beauty. See why TripAdvisor rates us as one of the best
boat tours on island.
Tel (868) 681-4741
Address 54 Samaan Grove, Golden Grove Road, Canaan, Tobago
Email info@snorkeltobago.com | www.snorkeltobago.com
The inspiration for ‘Robinson
Crusoe’ and ‘Treasure Island’,
the island’s stunning bays and
coral reefs are host to a plethora
of snorkelling locations for both
beginner and advanced swimmers.
Starting from the popular beach of Storebay,
its southern side offers various rock and coral
formations to explore. Buccoo Reef is often looked
down upon due to the glass bottom boat traffic
at the Coral Gardens, but the reef possesses
great snorkelling opportunities just off the main
boat thoroughfare. This is a great reef to see an
abundance of fish with regular visits from southern
grey stingray. Just make sure you visit in the low
tide and on a non-windy, calm day, as the sea
current can be a challenge.
Going further up the coast, Mt Irvine Reef has
many options for snorkelling. From the more calm
side between Grange and Mt Irvine Beach where
bearded fireworms and blue tangs are abundant, to
the more advanced Mt Irvine point where on calmer
days Queen Angelfish can be spotted swimming
amongst large school of Sergeant Majors. Always
swim with certified divers/guides and don’t attempt
this area if the sea is rough.
Arnos Vale Bay is the next stop, here you’ll
discover massive coral formations and perhaps
some eels, often found hiding among the rocks in
the crystal clear waters of Cotton Bay, which can be
only accessed by boat.
In the middle of the bay is a large submerged
rock teeming with life including Trumpetfish and
large French Angelfish. Exploring outside off the
northen side of the bay is also rewarding, but for
more advanced swimmers; and to the north of
Castara Beach is a bay with stunning elkhorn and
soft corals.
Charlotteville is a favourite for many explorers,
with frequent turtle sightings and a myriad of
striking reef fish. Both Pirates Bay and Lovers Bay
are worth the trip, so hire a boat from the village to
get out there as the road to Pirates Bay is difficult
to navigate, so driving is not recommended.
Speyside is one of the few spots on the Atlantic
side of Tobago with great snorkelling. Check out
Angel Reef which can be accessed by glass bottom
or dive boat. This reef boasts impressive brain
corals and reef fish.
But this is just a sampling of what the island has
to offer, so grab your mask and fins and explore the
wonders of Tobago’s coral reefs.
Fun in the Water 161
Blue Waters Inn
Photo: Jason Sookermany
 Blue Waters Inn
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 five consecutive years. Stay, Explore, Indulge!
Tel (868) 660-4341, (868) 660-2583
Address Batteaux Bay, Speyside, Tobago, West Indies
Email bwi@bluewatersinn.com | www.bluewatersinn.com

Magdalena Grand Beach

& Golf Resort
The Magdalena Grand in Tobago has everything you want. This new
ocean front resort gives you a choice of swimming pools, patios, beach,
spa, tennis, 5-star PADI dive centre, 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”.

Tel (868) 660-8500 | Fax (868) 660-8503

Address Tobago Plantations Estate, Lowlands, Tobago
Email info@magdalenagrand.com
www.magdalenagrand.com

Crown Point Beach Hotel

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 well-known Pigeon Point beach.
Accommodation comprises of studios, cabanas and one-bedroom
apartments. All rooms have an ocean view, kitchenette, bathroom, hair
dryer, cable television and telephone.
The The Simmer Down 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.
Tel (868) 639-8781/3 | Fax (868) 639-8731
Address Store Bay Local Road, Crown Point, Tobago.
Email reservations@crownpointbeachhotel.com
www.crownpointbeachhotel.com

164 Stay A While

 The Villas at Stonehaven
The Villas at Stonehaven is a boutique villa resort located on the Caribbean
coast of Tobago. Set on a hillside among lush tropical gardens that adjoin
a bird sanctuary, in perfect harmony with its surroundings and with
“gaze all day” panoramic ocean views, the accommodation comprises
14, four bedroom villas, each with an en-suite bathroom, a generous
open verandah with adjoining pool terrace and infinity pool. With full
kitchens, barbeque areas and your own personal housekeeper, these
villas are the perfect place for family and friends to come together and
relax. Your home away from home has an on-site restaurant, The Pavilion
Restaurant, which is open for lunch and dinner. The Pavilion Restaurant
and Clubhouse, with its half-moon infinity pool, is also a spectacular
setting for weddings, corporate retreats and entertaining.
Tel (868) 639-0361 | Fax (868) 639-0102
Address Stonehaven Bay, Black Rock, Tobago, West Indies
Email reservations@stonehavenvillas.com
www.stonehavenvillas.com

Sunspree Resort Ltd.

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. Sunspree Resort has won a
Certificate of Excellence 2013 from Trip Advisor.
Tel (868) 631-5195/ 631-5196 | Fax (868) 631-5195
Address #40 Store Bay Local Road,
Crown Point, Tobago
Email sunspreeresort@gmail.com
www.sunspreeresortltd.com

Surf Side Hotel

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 self-contained with air-condition, 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).

For rates & other information call us (868) 639 0614 / 639 9702
Address Pigeon Point Road, Crown Point, Tobago
Email surfsidetobago@gmail.com
Facebook Surf Side Hotel

166 Stay A While

 Mount Irvine Bay Resort
Mount Irvine Bay Resort combines all the amenities of world-class
accommodation with the unique charm of the Caribbean. Sit back and
relax in the splendour of fully air-conditioned luxury rooms or elegant
suites, complete with private bathrooms, balconies and complimentary
Wi-Fi. If you’d prefer even more room to breathe, the spacious garden
cottages are exactly the place.

Tel (868) 639-8871

Address 78-86 Grafton Rd, Mt Irvine,
Scarborough 901124, Tobago, West Indies
Email reservations@mtirivine.com
Facebook Mount Irvine Bay Resort
Twitter @mtrivineresort | Instagram @mtirvineresort
www.mtirvine.com

Johnston Apartments
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.
Tel (868) 639-8915, 631-5160/2 (TOBAGO)
Tel (868) 627-1927 (POS) | Fax (868) 631-5112
Address Store Bay, Tobago
Email johnapt.tt@gmail.com
www.johnstonapartments.com

Miller’s Guest House

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.

Tel (868) 660-8371, 631-0492, 772-5609 (Guest House)

Tel (868) 631-1349, 767-9574 (Restaurant)
Address 14 Miller Street, Buccoo Point, Tobago, West Indies.
office@millersguesthouse.com | www.millersguesthouse.com

168 Stay A While

 Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort Ltd
Amazing, fun filled vacations begin at Tropikist Beach Hotel &
Resort. Nestled on five acres of exquisitely landscaped property, the
view of the ocean and coastline is captivating 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; a Jacuzzi.
Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort …..Your Tropical Destination.
Tel (868) 671-9143, 671-0631 Fax (868) 665-9236
Administration Office 78–79 La Clave Street,
Lange Park, Chaguanas, Trinidad, W.I.
Tel (868) 639-8512-3 Fax (868) 639-9605
Address Crown Point, Tobago, W.I.
Email tropikistbeachhotelresort@gmail.com | www.tropikist.com

Green Palm Boutique Hotel

Located just three minutes drive from the Airport and Pigeon Point
Beach, Green Palm Boutique Hotel & Conference Centre rooms offer
an intimate, stylish decor that includes coffee maker, refrigerator, 42”
flat screen TV with cable and free WiFi. Our Studio apartments include a
kitchenette for your added convenience.
Whether you indulge yourself at our Spa, lounge in our swimming pool
or work up an appetite at our gymnasium, our Tempo Restaurant will
cater to your individual needs and with items like Lobster Limbo and
Flaming Rum Pork, you are guaranteed to have a fun dining experience.
So whether you’re planning a conference or relaxing at our pool-bar, we
can accommodate you.
Tel 1 (868) 631 8961
www.greenpalmtt.com
reservations@greenpalmtt.com
Facebook & Instagram

Rose Villas 130

Situated in Tobago Plantations, Rose Villa is guaranteed to deliver the
ideal escape for your Caribbean experience. Dare to discover Rose villa to
reconnect with yourself, loved ones and the wonder of the natural world.
This seafront vacation home is walking distance to an 18-hole PGA golf
course, clubhouse restaurants, bars and the Magdalena Grand Hotel.
Enjoy the privacy of a fully furnished villa with a fully-equipped modern
kitchen, lush backyard garden seafront patio, BBQ grill, outdoor swimming
pool, Jacuzzi and much more. Rose Villa is also home to spectacular views
from its open ocean deck. There’s nothing quite like the fiery orange and
pink sky at sunset. All of this is yours, at Rose villa Tobago.

Tel (868) 638-9675 ext 111 / (868) 792-3944

Address #130 Tobago Plantations Golf and Beach Resort,
Lowlands, Tobago
Email chitra@yorkltd.com
www.rosevillatobago.com

170 Stay A While

Stay A While 171
172 Stay A While
Make Tobago
Your Wedding Destination
By Roslyn Carrington

Thanks to more affordable travel, a

destination wedding is possible for
any bride who has ever dreamed
of standing barefoot in the sand
reciting her vows, as her fiancé
places the ring on her finger.

And Tobago, with sun-speckled beaches and wide-

open spaces, is just the island to make your romantic
wedding wishes come true. Embrace tradition by
booking a church or hall, or splash out on a hotel
ballroom. Exchange your vows underwater, or near a
waterfall. The Pigeon Point Heritage Park even has a
designated wedding venue.
Will it just be you two, your family and a handful of
loved ones? Wonderful. Were you planning the bash of
the century with all the (wedding) bells and whistles?
Yes, we can do that too!
Some hotels, resorts or villas offer wedding packages
in which they supply most of your needs, like catering,
bar, and entertainment, leaving you with more time
for the fun stuff — such as selecting handmade local
gifts for your guests, or ordering tropical-themed floral
décor.
The best rewards of a destination wedding is that
it’s both a special event and a vacation. Encourage
your guests to arrive a few days early so you can all
be happy, relaxed and tanned when you slip into your
wedding “dan-dan”. Stay on afterward, so you can
enjoy all the island has to offer.
Of course, marriage is a legal union, so there are
certain requirements that you will be expected to fulfil.
For more information, contact the Registrar General’s
Division of the Ministry of Legal Affairs at
(868) 639-1330, or email becklestr@gov.tt.
Just be sure to organise your wedding planner,
venue, catering, entertainment, transport and
accommodation early, especially in the high season,
because on that special day, it’s all about you!

Photo: Gary Jordan

 AQUA
Blue Waters Inn
Sample Menu
Batteaux Bay Shrimp Salad
Grilled blackened shrimp served over mixed
greens with mandarin oranges, strawberries,
pecans, sliced apples, blue cheese crumble
and apple cinnamon dressing.
Tuna Tartar
Yellowfin tuna, chopped and mixed with
sesame seeds, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar
and sesame oil. Topped with avocado and
wakame seaweed salad.
Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
Seared bacon wrapped filet mignon, combined
with a creamy gorgonzola sauce offered with
oven roasted fingerling potatoes and chef’s
choice of vegetable.
Cedar Plank Salmon
Fresh atlantic salmon broiled and served on
a cedar plank and topped with with roasted
corn/black bean salsa and wasabi aioli.
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.
Tel (868) 660-4341
Address Batteaux Bay, Speyside, Tobago
www.bluewatersinn.com
176 Good Food, Good Mood
The Pasta
Gallery
Sample Menu
Starters
Tomato Bruschetta, Garlic Bread, Caprese Salad
Main Course
Baked Meat Lasagne
Baked lasagne with Bolognese sauce,
Mozzarella cheese, and Béchamel.
Chicken/Shrimp/Mixed
Seafood/Vegetable Alfredo
Chicken, Shrimp, Mixed seafood, Vegetable or
any combination served over fettuccine in a
cream-based sauce with Parmesan Cheese.
Linguine al Pesto
Basil, olive oil, Parmesan cheese,
garlic and nuts.
Shrimp Marinara
Sautéed shrimp served over fettuccine with
tomato sauce.
Dessert
Tiramisu, Cheesecake, Gelato.
Gluten free and whole wheat pastas available.
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.
Tel (868) 727-8200 (PASTA-00)
Address Pigeon Point Road, Crown Point
Facebook www.facebook.com/
ThePastaGallery
www.pastagallery.net
Dine in, Takeaway, Bar $
Hummingbird
Lounge
Sample Menu
Coffee
Expresso; Double Espresso;
Macchiato; Viennese;
Americano; Cappuccino; Latte.
Teas
English Breakfast
A traditional blend of black teas.
Earl Grey
Aromatic black tea blend,
Scented with bergamot.
Voyage
A unique blend of tea with cinnamon,
cardamom, cloves & ginger.
Pure White
Selected from the young first leaves and
unopened buds of white tea bushes.
A 15-minute drive and 5 miles from ANR
International Airport. Set amidst an old
sugar and coconut plantation overlooking
the Caribbean Sea, the Mount Irvine Bay
Resort is an elegant, private hideaway.
The Hummingbird Lounge offers speciality
coffees, teas, house-baked goods, pastries,
sandwiches, paninis, wraps and juicy shrimp
or vegetable wantons. All of our blends are
of the Italian House of Lavazza, 100 percent
Arabica and also offered decaffeinated. Opens
7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. The Lobby Bar is
located in the main lobby. Opens from 11:00
a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily.
Tel (868) 639-8871
Address 78-86 Grafton Road, Mount Irvine,
Tobago, West Indies
info@mountirvine.com
OUR TEAS ARE OF TWININGS OF LONDON
 Kali’na Pembois Salaka
Restaurant Restaurant Grill
Caribbean
Fusion & Terrace Ocean front
and pool-side
upscale dining All Day Dining restaurant
Main Restaurant
Sample Menu
Sample Menu Sample Menu
West Indies Wrap
Starters Tobago Buffet Spiced chicken breast | tomato
Braised Beef Short Ribs Friday Night crispy lettuce | scallions
Red Wine Reduction & Fried Plantain. (other themed dinners on other days) cilantro & mango chutney.

Main Course Crab & Dumplings Bake and Shark

Cocoa Chilli Rubbed Pork Chop Roti Station Coconut bake | chadon beni sauce.
Sweet potato & grilled Vegetable Tower 10 Accra
Cane Rum Jus. Pholourie Chicken Roti
Baiganee West Indian curry sauce | “aloo”
Grilled Tobago Lobster Local Stew wrapped in dhalpurie
with herbed Basmati rice, sautéed vegetables, Provision pumpkin chutney.
flavourful shadon beni garlic butter sauce. and more.
Guava Barbecue
Magdalena Crab & Dumpling Chicken Breast Kebab
Let us surprise you with our chef’s creation of Roasted peppers | onion | pineapple.
this traditional dish served with curry sauce,
pickled vegetables.

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.
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.
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.

Tel (868) 660-8500 Tel (868) 660-8500 Tel (868) 660-8500

Fax (868) 660-8503
Address Tobago Plantations Estate,
Lowlands, Tobago
Email info@magdalenagrand.com
www.magdalenagrand.com
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$
Fax (868) 660-8503
Address Tobago Plantations Estate,
Lowlands, Tobago
Email info@magdalenagrand.com
www.magdalenagrand.com
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$
Fax (868) 660-8503
Address Tobago Plantations Estate,
Lowlands, Tobago
Email info@magdalenagrand.com
www.magdalenagrand.com
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

Good Food, Good Mood 177

 Café Coco
Sample Menu
Rack of Baby Back Pork Ribs
Served with spicy or regular sweet potato fries
and coleslaw.
Duo of Grilled Chicken Breast & Leg
Served with garlic mash, fresh salad and
vegetables and a rosemary flavoured
tomato sauce.
Papa John Shrimp Linguini
Medley of shrimp & linguini in a garlic sauce
Surf & Turf
Lobster Tail and Rib Eye Steak OR Rib Eye
Steak and shrimp, sautéed in garlic and herbs.
Served with your choice of sides.
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.
Reservations (868) 639-0996
Fax (868) 639-8574
Address First left off Pigeon Point Road,
Crown Point, Tobago
Email reservations@cafe-coco.biz
www.cocoreef.com
Lunch, Dinner $–$$
178 Good Food, Good Mood
Rooster’s
Restaurants
Sample Menu
Grill
Pork Chops; Baby Back Ribs;
Garlic Chicken; BBQ Pigtail; Fish.
Cutters
Jerk Wings; Buffalo Wings; Shrimp Creation;
Chicken Fingers; Rotisserie Chicken;
Geera Pork.
Sides
Green Salad; Mixed Veggies; Pasta Creations;
Potatoes Creations; Wedges.
Rotisserie
Whole Chicken; Half Chicken.
Fried
Fried Chicken & Fish with Chips
Roosters Restaurants started with its fried
Chicken & Chips in 2012. Now added is our
Rotisserie section which does grilled meat,
cutters, various sides & whole chickens.
Roosters Shirvan will be having a section
for Sushi & Pizza. Pelican Plaza opens from
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m., ANR Robinson Airport
& Shirvan Plaza open from 11:00 a.m. - 10:00
p.m.
Tel (868) 639-8563
Address Pelican Plaza,
Milford Road, Crown Point, Tobago, W.I.
Tel (868) 639-5000
Address ANR Robinson Airport, Tobago, W.I.
Tel (868) 631-1000
Address Shirvan Plaza, Tobago, W.I.
Email jnrinvestments1@gmail.com
Takeaway $
REVS
Steakhouse & Bar
Sample Menu
Bar Menu
Beer Chilli; Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail;
Chicken Wings; Irish Pot Roast Lamb Stew;
Grilled 10 oz. Burger and Veggie Burger.
Signature Steaks
Grilled Ribeye Steak with Classic Steak Butter;
Cajun Steak Fettuccine;
Backyard T-bone Steak 14 oz.
Ribs
Baby Back Ribs 1/2 Rack & Full Rack
Seafoods
Grilled Honey-Ginger &
Barbeque Sauce Jumbo Shrimp;
Catch of the Day.
Desserts
Signature Cocktails
REVS Steakhouse & Bar offers you a unique
experience for a great night out in Tobago.
While offering you a wide variety of prime
cuts from our Steakhouse menu, we also offer
lighter bites at the bar for the not so hungry!!!
Whether you relax in our beautiful ambiance
on the outdoor decking in your own private
booth, soak in the atmosphere of
our unique themed bar indoors, or
sip on one of our signature cocktails,
while watching a sport event on
multiple TV screens, REVS offers you the
ultimate liming experience!!!
Tel 639-9792/ 789-9620
Address #196 Shirvan Road,
Buccoo, Tobago, West Indies
Email revstobago@gmail.com
Dinner and Takeaway $$
 Kariwak
Village
Sample Menu
Dinner
Pumpkin soup with fresh dill
Fresh garden greens with roasted
sunflower seeds.
Mahi mahi in a coconut herb sauce OR
Baked chicken with cumin and coriander
with savoury basmati rice, ginger mixed
vegetables and grilled eggplant.
Kariwak lime pie with
homemade peppermint ice cream.
Coffee, tea or Kariwak spice tea
with bay leaf, cinnamon and ginger.
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 garden. Everything is freshly
prepared on-site, from the legendary Kariwak
rum punch with fresh lime and passion fruit, to
the homemade rosemary focaccia, served on
weekends.
Breakfast is a delight of local fruit, homemade
yogurt and muesli, along with traditional
favourites. Kariwak’s popular lunch and
dinner menus are set daily based on what is
freshly available. Generously-sized salads and
sandwiches served throughout the day… buffet
dinner and live entertainment on Friday and
Saturday nights.
Dinner: $200 to $230 TT
Lunch: $95 to $105 TT
Tel (868) 639-8442
Address Store Bay Local Road,
Crown Point, Tobago
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Bar $$
Patino’s
Restaurant & Bar
Sample Menu
Starters
Coconut Curried Mussels
Mussels simmered in our own
home-made Coconut Curry Sauce.
Main Course
Spicy Shrimp Pasta
Shrimp sauteed then mixed in a
Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce.
Sizzling Thai Lobster
Chunks of Lobster poached in a
Basil Coconut Cream Sauce.
Ribeye Steak
8oz Ribeye grilled to your liking with
sweet & spicy Steak Sauce.
Catch of the Day
Pan-seared/grill fish steak (your choice)
drizzled with Tomato Ginger Sauce.
Come experience the best in culinary cuisine
that Tobago has to offer. Patino’s Restaurant &
Bar serves up the best in International meals
specialising in seafood with mouth-watering
dishes. Dine at Patino’s/Enchanted Waters
Hotel outdoor restaurant, with its romantic and
enchanting setting. Enjoy our poolside tropical
ambience and as you dine, be hypnotised
by the soothing sounds of our cascading
waterfalls and enjoy the relaxing view of our
many Japanese Koi Fish that thrive in our
ponds!
Open Hours: Dinner - Thursday to Monday,
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm.
Tel (868) 639-9481
Address 198 - 202 Shirvan Road
Buccoo, Tobago
Email info@kpresorts.com $$
Good Food, Good Mood
The Seahorse
Restaurant & Bar
Sample Menu
Creole Crab Cakes – Seafood sauce,
red pepper coulis.
Bruschetta Trio – Tomato, fennel, feta;
Smoked Salmon, horseradish cream, capers;
Chicken liver paté, candied orange peel.
Lobster Thermidor – Classic sauce of cheese,
white wine, cream and snipped chives.
Blackened fillet of Grouper
Wilted greens, mashed potato, warm lemon
herb vinaigrette, chilli oil.
Tournedos Seahorse – 10 oz. Tenderloin
steak, roast garlic mashed potatoes,
seared fois gras. Roast shallots,
Red wine sauce.
Slow Braised Pork Belly – Crackling,
spicy shrimp & Madeira sauce.
Intimate al fresco dining under the stars, a
gentle breeze, the soothing, eternal sound of
the surf. Fabulous food before you, leatherback
turtles nesting on the beach.
It’s no wonder the Seahorse Inn is Tobago’s
premier beachside fine dining restaurant.
We were acclaimed best value small inn &
restaurant in leading UK publications the
Daily and Financial Times, Evening Standard,
Express, plus Options and Wedding & Home
magazines. Open for dinner 6:00 pm daily.
Tel (868) 639-0686
Address Grafton Beach Road,
Black Rock, Tobago
Email seahorseinntobago@gmail.com
www.seahorseinntobago.com
We Cater for Weddings & Functions
on or off premises $$$
179
 Good
Eats
Sample Menu
Breakfast
Fried Bake & Shark
Roast Bake & Saltfish
Smoked Salmon
Mini Breakfast Tortillas
Eggs & Spinach Wrap.
Lunch
(Main dishes served with two sides)
Boneless Lamb Shoulder
Slow cooked in tamarind, soya sauce, ginger,
herbs and spices.
8 oz Ribeye Steak
Served with garlic butter, cooked to your liking.
Good Eats is a recently opened take out food
outlet near the airport in Crown Point. Our sign
is visible as you exit the departure lounge of
the airport. You can enjoy a variety of tasty
items always freshly prepared and done to
order. The breakfast menu includes options
perfect for a healthy bite and local breakfast
items. Lunchtime favourites include our daily
special which supplements our regular lunch
menu.
Desserts vary daily and you can get a cup of
tea or coffee and a light snack from US$3.00
anytime during opening hours. Prices for
breakfast start at US$1.00. Lunch prices range
from US$5.00 to US$15.00. Open every day
from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. NO ALCOHOL
SERVED. ONLY HALAL MEATS USED.
Tel (868) 639 8660
Address Opposite ANR International
Airport, Crown Point, Tobago.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$
180 Good Food, Good Mood
HONEYS
Restaurant
Sample Menu
Lunch
Thursdays - Stew
Fridays - Fireside Curry
Curried Chicken, Pork, Beef, Goat, Duck, Fish
and Shrimp. Sides - Rice, Dhal, Paratha Roti
Saturdays - Soups
Sundays BBQ.
Rest of the week
Gourmet burgers, Sandwiches and Salads.
Dinner
USDA Steaks, Lobster, Shrimp, Chicken, Fish
and loaded Gourmet Burgers.
Honeys Restaurant is rustic - wood, bamboo
and carat, in an open-air setting, which is
natural and relaxing. We produce some in-
house organic herbs for our meals and source
local organic produce for our salads. We pride
ourselves in being able to provide hearty,
great-tasting meals at an affordable price.
Enjoy our Special Business Lunches from 2:00
p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and our after work ‘limes’
from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with drink and
cocktail specials from our well-stocked bar.
Lunches start at TT$25.00, and dinner starts
from TT$70 and goes up to TT$400. We have a
Kids Menu and Vegetarian options.
Tel (868) 313 2917 / 298 5249
Email honeysrestaurant@outlook.com
Address Community Lane, Mt. Pleasant
Trinidad & Tobago W.I.
www.honeysrestaurants.com $$
Luvinia’s Seafood
& Steak Restaurant
Sample Menu
Starter
Shrimp Taragon
Cold shrimp served with red onions and
drizzled with tarragon vinaigrette.
Main Course
Luvinia’s Grilled Fish
Boneless fish served with a Mediterranean red
wine, tomato and olive sauce
Miller’s Lamb
Grilled lamb chops in a special sauce
Lobster ala Espanola
Lobster sauteed’ in a mild saffron, chadon beni
and white wine sauce.
Tobago’s No. 1 beachfront restaurant, with
excellent food and a fantastic view. Sit back,
relax, converse and watch the sun rise and
set over Buccoo Bay. Our professional staff
will cater for your every need. Try one of our
refreshing cocktails on the sun terrace. Sample
the delicious fresh seafood in our open-air
restaurant, and enjoy the catch of the day from
the local fisherman at the jetty in front of the
restaurant.
Reservations (868) 631-1349 / 767-9574
Address Miller’s Guesthouse
#14 Miller Street, Buccoo Point,
Tobago, West Indies
luvinias@outlook.com
Free Wi-Fi access, Breakfast,
Lunch, Dinner, Bar, Takeaway,
Available for functions. $$-$$$

BLUEFOOD
Local Cuisine
By Alva Viarruel
How would you like to try cinnamon dusted dasheen, topped
with a rum pineapple glaze or sautéed dasheen leaves with
pumpkin? The combination of ingredients may not interest
everyone, but for those at the Blue Food Festival it’s just what
they craved. Last year, hundreds travelled to Tobago’s north-
west coast, Bloody Bay, for this annual Octoberfest. It was this
meal prepared by Yzanne Chance, that won the prize for best
innovative use of blue food (ground provision mostly comprising
dasheen or taro root) in the cooking competition. She also won
both the Cook of the Day and best tasting dasheen dish prizes.
The judges, including chef Debra Metivier, felt that Chance
was the only participant who incorporated more than one part
of the vegetable, she was also “able to use and maintain the
core flavours of the dasheen and represent it in a contemporary
manner.” To them, this competition represented “to an extent,
the growth of the festival,” over the past 19 years “from a
culinary perspective”. With an associate degree in culinary arts,
Chance is a food innovator, avid reader who enjoys watching
culinary videos and experimenting with new recipes.
The Blue Food Festival began in the quiet village of L’Anse
Fourmi in 1998 under the directive of then Secretary of Tourism,
George Stanley Baird, who got the idea while travelling around
the region.
“I felt at the time that our hotels and restaurants should have
local dishes on the menu. It was an effort to partner with the
agricultural sector to support the tourism sector to push the
Good Food, Good Mood
Photos: Andrea de Silva
“Taste of Tobago”. So we were looking at not only the cultural
aspect but developing an integrated form of cultural tourism or
community tourism at its best.”
The festival grew as a farming community project with the
two neighbouring villages of Blood Bay and Parlatuvier, and
was eventually relocated to Bloody Bay. This year, in addition
to the sale of 'blue food' in multiple forms and fashion,
together with accompanying meats, fish or crustaceans;
dasheen-based condiments including ketchup, pepper sauce
and cuchilla; pastry; wines; and cosmetic products made from
various type of 'blue food', organisers introduced a guided
“Dasheen Patch Tour”. The short trek to the Fresh Green Farms
managed by Lindsay Edwards and his father Shurwayne,
located between the festival grounds and the coastline,
promoted the farming and harvesting of a variety of dasheen
plants.
Sheena Des Vignes, vice chairman of the events committee
and marketing officer in the Division of Tourism, Culture and
Transportation said the Division is focused on enhancing the
festival each year and considers it an excellent platform to
bolster the growth of the agro-processing industry.
“The people (of L’Anse Fourmi/Parlatuvier/Bloody Bay)
are very passionate about dasheen and the festival and as it
grows, the expectations of patrons have also grown, so we’re
constantly challenged to figure out what else we can do to
improve and innovate.”
181
Tobago Hotel & Guest Houses
HOTEL LOCATION TELEPHONE E-MAIL WEBSITE
International
Access Code (868)
ADVENTURE ECO VILLAS Plymouth 639-2839 adventureecovillastobago@gmail.com www.adventure-ecovillas.com
AT GLENEAGLE’S Mt. Irvine 639-7082 swcruick@hotmail.com
BACOLET BEACH CLUB Scarborough 639-2357 info@bacoletbeachclub.com www.bacoletbeachclub.com
BANANAQUIT APARTMENTS Crown Point 639-9733 bananaquit.tobago@gmail.com www.bananaquit.com
BEVERLY’S OASIS SUITES Lowlands 639-7928 beverlys@gradstt.com www.beverlyoasissuites.com
BLUE WATERS INN Speyside 660-4341,
660-2583, 660-4077 bwi@bluewatersinn.com www.bluewatersinn.com
CANOE BAY BEACH RESORT Lowlands 631-0367 canoebay@yahoo.com www.canoett.com
CHACONIA SUITE Black Rock 291-8339 liz@tobagochaconia.com www.tobagochaconia.com
GREEN PALM BOUTIQUE HOTEL Bon Accord 631-8961
& CONFERENCE CENTER
CHOLSON CHALETS Charlotteville 639-8553 cholsonchaletsltd@yahoo.com www.cholsonchalets.com
COCO REEF RESORT & SPA Crown Point 639-8571 cocoreef-tobago@trinidad.net www.cocoreef.com
CROWN POINT BEACH HOTEL Crown Point 639-8781-3 reservations@crownpointbeachhotel.com www.crownpointbeachhotel.com
ENCHANTED WATERS HOTEL Buccoo 639-9481 info@kpresorts.com www.enchantedwaterstobago.com
FOOTPRINTS ECO RESORT & SPA Culloden 660-0416, footprints.resort.spa@gmail.com www.footprintsecoresort.com
660-0421, 660-0118
GOLDEN THISTLE HOTEL Crown Point 639-8521, 639 7060 goldenthistlehotel@gmail.com www.goldenthistlehotel.com
GREENFIELD HOLIDAY RESORT Mason Hall 639-3516 sharonthom56@gmail.com
HALF MOON BLUE Scarborough 639-3551 holidays@halfmoonblue.com www.halfmoonblue.com
HIBISCUS HEIGHTS Black Rock 471-5777 guestservices@hibiscusheights.com www.hibiscusheights.com
HOPE COTTAGE GUESTHOUSE Scarborough 639-2179 hcghtobago@hotmail.com
HUMMINGBIRD HEIGHTS Scarborough 767-9111 drles213@yahoo.com www.hummingbird-heights.com
IRON HILL GUESTHOUSE Whim 635-0725 pt6607@gmail.com
J & G’S TROPICAL APARTMENTS Bon Accord 759-9776 jgapts@outlook.com
JOHNSTON APARTMENTS Store Bay 631-5160-3 johnapt.tt@gmail.com www.johnstonapartments.com
KARIWAK VILLAGE HOLISTIC
HAVEN AND HOTEL Crown Point 639-8442 kariwak@gmail.com www.kariwak.com

182 Hotels & Guesthouses

 Photo: Patricia Lewis

KS KONDO’S Bon Accord 361-0299 kskondos@gmail.com

LE CHATEAU Signal Hill 782-0363 lechateautobago@yahoo.com www.lechateautobago.com
MAGDALENA GRAND BEACH Lowlands 660-8500 info@magdalenagrand.com www.magdalenagrand.com
& GOLF RESORT
MAN O’ WAR BAY COTTAGES Charlotteville 660-4327 patricia@cel2015.net
MILLER’S GUEST HOUSE Buccoo Point 660-8371, 631-0492, office@millersguesthouse.com www.millersguesthouse.com
MJ’S HOLIDAY VILLAS Bon Accord 765-8602 mjvilla@rogers.com www.mjaysvilla.com
MOUNT IRVINE BAY HOTEL Mt. Irvine 639-8871 info@mtirvine.com www.mtirvine.com
PAPA B’S INN Carnbee 631-0838 papabstobago@hotmail.com www.papabsinn.com
RAINBOW NATURE RESORT Goldsborough 660-4755 rainbownatureresort@gmail.com www.rainbownatureresort.com
ROSE VILLA Lowlands 638-9675 ext 111 Chitra@yorkltd.com www.rosevillatobago.com
792-3944
ROVANEL’S RESORT Bon Accord 639-9666, 639-0652 reservations@rovanelsresort.com www.rovanelsresorttobago.com
& CONFERENCE CENTRE
SANDY’S BED AND BREAKFAST Scarborough 639-2737, 660-7748 sandy@tobagobluecrab.com
STORE BAY HOLIDAY RESORT Crown Point 639-8810 store_bay@hotmail.com www.storebayholidays.com
SULLIVAN’S COURT Buccoo 639-0891 sullivanscourt_tobago@live.com www.sullivanstobago.com
SUNSPREE RESORTS Crown Point 631-5196 sunspreeresort@gmail.com www.sunspreeresortsltd.net
SURF SIDE HOTEL Crown Point 639-9702, 639-0614 surfsidetobago@gmail.com www.surfsidehoteltt.com
TARA’S BEACHHOUSE Lambeau 639-1566 info@tarasbeachhouse.com www.tarasbeachhouse.com
THE HUMMINGBIRD HOTEL Crown Point 635-0241 linda@hummingbirdtobago.com www.hummingbirdtobago.com
TOP O’ TOBAGO VILLAS Plymouth 639-3166 camille@topotobago.com www.topotobago.com
TROPIKIST BEACH HOTEL & RESORT Crown Point 639-8512, 639-8513 tropikistbeachhotelresort@gmail.com www.tropikist.com
TURTLE VIEW GUESTHOUSE Black Rock 639-1435 reservations@turtleview.com www.turtleview.de
VILLA BEING Arnos Vale 676-6165 info@being-tobago.com www.being-tobago.com
VILLA LAGOONA Bon Accord 632-5423 jeanstampfli@gmail.com www.villalagoona.com
VILLA ROSE OF SHARON APARTMENTS Bon Accord 631-8793 norasinanan@live.com www.villasroseofsharon.com
VILLA SOLEIL Plymouth 391-2073 hoveestate@gmail.com
VILLAS AT STONEHAVEN Black Rock 639-0361 reservations@stonehavenvillas.com www.stonehavenvillas.com
VIOLA’S PLACE Lowlands 639-9441 violasplace22@gmail.com www.violasplaceapthotel.com

Hotel & Guesthouses 183

Trinidad Hotel & Guest Houses
HOTEL LOCATION TELEPHONE E-MAIL WEBSITE
International
Access Code (868)
ACAJOU HOTEL Grande Rivière 670-3771 info@acajoutrinidad.com www.acajoutrinidad.com
ALICIA’S PALACE St. Ann’s 624-8553, 621-1017 info@aliciasplace.com www.aliciaspalace.com
ASA WRIGHT NATURE CENTRE & LODGE Arima 667-4655, 667-5162 reservations@asawright.org www.asawright.org
BOMBSHELL BAY HOTEL & VILLA RESORTS Chaguaramas 672-5133, 777-2785 bombshellbay.rest@gmail.com www.bombshellbayvillas.com
CARA SUITES HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE Claxton Bay 659-2271/2 reservations@carasuites.com www.carahotels.com; www.carasuites.com
CASA MARIPOSA Lopinot 669-8647 cafemariposa58@gmail.com www.mariposalopinot.com
CATTLEYA HOTEL Tunapuna 299-0646 x 321 jcmora26@aol.com www.coetnt.com
CHACONIA HOTEL Maraval 628-0941, 622-2346 gm@chaconiahotel.com www.chaconiahotel.com
CHAQUACABANA RESORT & BEACH CLUB Chaguaramas 634-4319, 333-8312 info@chaquacabana.com www.chaquacabana.com
COBLENTZ INN BOUTIQUE HOTEL Cascade 621-0541-4 coblentzinn1@gmail.com www.coblentzinn.com
CORAL COVE MARINA HOTEL Chaguaramas 634-2040, 634-2244 coralcovereservations@albrosco.com www.coralcovemarina.com
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT Port of Spain 627-5555 poscy.reservations@courtyard.com www.courtyardportofspain.com
CREWSINN HOTEL AND YACHTING CENTRE Chaguaramas 634-4000 inquiries@crewsinn.com www.crewsinn.com
CULTURE CROSSROADS INN St. James 622-8687, 680-7678 culturecrossroadstt@gmail.com www.culturecrossroadstt.com
FORTY WINKS INN Newtown 622-0484, 628-0316 pam@fortywinkstt.com www.fortywinkstt.com
GASPAREE ISLAND VACATION RESORT Chaguaramas 672-5133, 777-2785 bombshellbay.rest@gmail.com www.bombshellbayvillas.com
HILTON TRINIDAD Belmont 624-3211 reservations.trinidad@hilton.com www.trinidad.hilton.com
AND CONFERENCE CENTRE
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS SUITES Trincity 669-6209 hiexreservations@gmail.com www.hiexpress.com/trincitytt
HOTEL NORMANDIE St. Ann’s 624-1181 sales@normandiett.com www.normandiett.com
HYATT REGENCY TRINIDAD Port of Spain 623-2222 trirt.reservation@hyatt.com www.trinidad.hyatt.com
INN AT 87 Newtown 622-4343 info@innat87.com www.innat87.com
INNA CITI PLACE Woodbrook 622-0415 innacitiplace@yahoo.com www.inna-citi-place.com
KAPOK HOTEL St. Clair 622-5765 stay@kapokhotel.com www.kapokhotel.com
L’ORCHIDÉE BOUTIQUE HOTEL St. Ann’s 621-0618, 621-0063 reservations@trinidadhosthomes.com www.trinidadhosthomes.com
LE GRAND ALMANDIER Grande Rivière 670-2294, 670-1013 info@legrandalmandier.com www.legrandalmandier.com
MONIQUE’S Maraval 628-2351, 628-3334 info@moniquestrinidad.com www.moniquestrinidad.com
PAR MAY LA’S INN Port of Spain 628-2008, 628-8357 reservation@parmaylas.com www.parmaylas.com
PARIA SUITES La Romain 697-2742, 697-1442/3 info@pariasuites.com www.pariasuites.com
PAX GUESTHOUSE Tunapuna 662-4084 stay@paxguesthouse.com www.paxguesthouse.com
PLAYA DEL ESTE Salybia 691-5227 playadelesteresort@gmail.com http://playadelesteresort.com
RADISSON TRINIDAD Port of Spain 625-3361-8 rhl_sptr@radisson.com www.radisson.com/
port-of-spain-hotel-tt/ttosptr
REGENT STAR HOTEL Piarco 669-STAR (7827) info@regentstarhotel.com www.theregentstarhotel.com
SUNDECK SUITES LIMITED Port of Spain 622-9560/1 reservations@sundecktrinidad.com www.sundecktrinidad.com
THE ARIPO COTTAGE & ECO RESORT El Cerro Del Aripo 662-6770, 645-6736 thearipocottage@gmail.com www.aripocottage.wixsite.com/home
THE CASCADIA HOTEL St. Ann’s 623-3511 marketing@cascadiahotel.com www.cascadiahotel.com
& CONFERENCE CENTRE
THE CHANCELLOR HOTEL St. Ann’s 623-0883 info@thechancellorhotel.com www.thechancellorhotel.com
& CONFERENCE CENTRE
THE NORMANDIE HOTEL & CONFERENCE St. Ann’s 624-1181-4, 387-1244 reservations@normandiett.com www.normandiett.com
THE ROYAL HOTEL (1978) LIMITED San Fernando 652-4881 info@royalhoteltt.com www.royalhoteltt.com
TRADEWINDS HOTEL San Fernando 652-9463 delia@tradewindshotel.com www.tradewindshotel.com
TRINIDAD MARACAS BAY HOTEL Maracas 669-1914 trinidadmaracasbayhotel@gmail.com www.maracasbay.com

184 Hotels & Guesthouses

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.
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
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 mid-September 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.
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.
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.
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.
Head of State: President Anthony Carmona.
Head of Government: Prime Minister,
Dr. Keith Christopher Rowley.
Leader of the Tobago House of Assembly:
Chief Secretary, The Honourable Kelvin Charles.
http://www.thepresidency.tt/
http://www.opm.gov.tt/; http://www.tha.gov.tt/
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 noon & 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Bank Hours of Operation: Shopping Centres –
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Exchange Rate: TTD 6.73: 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
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/
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, India, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea,
Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Cameroon, Fiji Islands,
Mozambique, Uganda and South Africa. Visitors
from several other countries are allowed to enter
Trinidad and Tobago for periods of up to three
months without a visa. Holders of CARICOM
passports, with the exception of Haiti, do not
require a visa.
http://www.immigration.gov.tt/
Work permits are required for business stays
beyond 30 days. Visa extensions can be obtained
from the Immigration Office Government Campus
Plaza, 3-9 Richmond Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad,
Tel: 225-IMMI (4664) , while work permits can be
obtained from the Ministry of National Security,
Temple Court 2, 52-60 Abercromby Street, Port of
Spain. www.nationalsecurity.gov.tt,
www.ttbizlink.gov.tt; www.investt.org
Transportation
Airports – Piarco International Airport is located
about 45 minutes from the capital city, Port of
Spain. Trinidad and Tobago’s national airline,
Caribbean Airlines, serves the Caribbean,
North America, Toronto, New York, Miami, Fort
Lauderdale and Orlando. International flights are
also available direct from Tobago’s ANR Robinson
International Airport, Virgin, British Airways,
Thomas Cooke.
http://www.tntairports.com/
Major Airlines
T&T National Carrier:
Caribbean Airlines: (868) 625-7200
American Airlines: (868) 821-6000
British Airways: (800) 247-9297
Copa Airlines: (800) 271-2672
United Airlines: (868) 624-1737
LIAT: (888) 844-5428
Jet Blue, Charter companies
Seaports
There are two main seaports: the Port of Port of
Spain handles dry and general cargo, break bulk,
containers and passenger traffic, while the Point
Lisas Industrial Port Development Corporation Ltd.
(PLIPDECO), is mainly a bulk port for industrial
commerce. There are ferries travelling the inter-
island route daily.
Port of Spain Ferry: (868) 625-4906/3055
Tobago Ferry: (868) 639-2417/4906
A water taxi ferry connects Port of Spain and San
Fernando. Scheduled sailing times are Monday
to Friday. Tickets cost TTD 15 one-way and can
be purchased at the Water Taxi Terminal. Free
parking is available at both ports. There is a Public
Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) shuttle
service. For further information visit: www.nidco.
co.tt / www.ptsc.co.tt/Tickets_and_Travel_.html or
call 624-5137 (POS) or 800-4WTS (San Fernando).
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 185
Index
519 Restaurant & Bar...................................................... 123
Acajou Hotel........................................................... 82 & 125
Acropolis Medical Centre.................................................56
Adam's Bagels & Specialty Breads..............................120
Al Haaq..............................................................................126
Angelo's Italian Restaurant............................................115
Angostura® Limited................................................. 65 & 97
Angostura® Museum and
Barcant Butterfly Collection..........................................65
Annie's Mandarin Restaurant & Lounge......................119
Aqua Restaurant.............................................................. 176
Arabian Nights..................................................................114
Art 6 Gallery........................................................................ 52
Art Gallery................... 2, 129, 147 & Tobago Cover Artist
Asa Wright Nature Centre and Lodge............................65
Asian Fusion Restaurant................................................ 125
Banquet & Conference Centre........................................96
Birkenstock.........................................................................39
Blink|Bmobile........................................ Inside Front Cover
Blue Waters Inn............................................ 164, 165 & 176
Bmobile VISA Prepaid Card................ Inside Front Cover
Burger King .................................................................121
C Spot Sip n Paint Studio.................................................88
C3 Centre............................................................................. 47
Café Coco.......................................................................... 178
Caffé del Mare.................................................................. 122
Capil's and Co. Ltd............................................................42
Caribbean Discovery Tours Ltd.......................................64
Caribbean Estates, Land & Villas.................................149
Centro Restaurant.............................................................110
Chaquacabana Resort & Beach Club.................81 & 122
Chaud Restaurant.............................................................118
Chi Studio & Creative Space........................................... 53
Club Royal Caribbean.......................................................93
Coco Reef Resort & Spa.......................................171 & 178
Corinth Development Company..................................... 47
Courtin................................................................................. 57
Courtyard by Marriott........................................... 80 & 110
Crews Inn Hotel and Yachting Centre................ 82 & 123
Crown Point Beach Hotel Limited.....................164 & 172
Dachin Group of Companies............... 110, 111, 112 & 113
Dolce Desserts................................................................. 123
Dreamstones Ltd................................................................11
Dreamy Creamy Ice Cream Company.......................... 123
Driftwood Restaurant & Bar.............Outside Back Cover
Dufry Trinidad Limited.......................................................17
ecliff elie..............................................................................46
Econo Car Rentals Ltd......................................................65
El Cid Day Spa....................................................................56
El Pecos Grill......................................................................114
El Bohio Something Different.......................................120
Empanadas Factory........................................................120
Excellent City Center......................................................... 43
Excellent Store................................................................... 43
Face & Body Clinic............................................................. 57
FarmaVita............................................................................ 57
Fashion Optics Limited....................................................40
Fens ..................................................................................... 45
Fens Furniture Homestore Maraval............................... 45
Fens of Marabella Furniture Land
South & Central............................................................... 45
Fernandes Fine Wines and Spirits.................................39
Fiesta Plaza.........................................................................88
Five Islands Water & Amusement Park.........................90
Flavours Restaurant........................................................ 124
Flowers 137.........................................................................97
Flowers to Treasure Limited............................................97
Germaine de Capuccini.................................................... 57
186 Index
Good Eats..........................................................................180
Green Palm Hotel............................................................ 170
Hakka Restaurant & Bar.......................................116 & 117
Harmoniousinfinity............................................................56
Harry's Water Park.............................................................90
Hayley's Buffet & Bar...................................................... 124
Healing with Horses Foundation.................................. 143
Himchuli Restaurant....................................................... 124
Honey's Restaurant.........................................................180
Hummingbird Lounge..................................................... 176
Hyatt Regency Trinidad........................... 56, 78, 79 & 110
I'm Wellness Centre..........................................................56
INKA Peruvian Restaurant....................................116 & 117
Irie Bites.............................................................................119
Iron Mantis (I'M)................................................................56
Island Beer Chill & Grill...................................................119
J-ZZ's International Steak House.................................. 127
Johnston Apartments......................................................168
Kali'na Restaurant............................................................177
Kapok Hotel............................................................78 & 108
Kariwak Village................................................................. 179
Kariwak Village Holistic Haven & Hotel........... 172 & 179
Kava....................................................................................108
Lazboy Comfort Studio..................................................... 45
Le Grand Almandier..........................................................80
Lighthouse Restaurant................................................... 122
lime 365 Trinidad & Tobago................ Inside Back Cover
Lime Inn............................................................................. 125
Liquid Adrenalin................................................................90
Little Caesars Pizza..........................................................121
Luvinia’s Seafood & Steak Restaurant........................180
Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort.......1, 164 & 177
Malabar Farms Gourmet Shop.......................................40
Martin Superville....... 2, 129, 147 & Tobago Cover Artist
Mélange Restaurant.........................................................118
Mi Casa Fine Home Furnishings......................................17
Miller's Guest House...........................................168 & 180
Ministry of Tourism................................ Inside Back Cover
More Sushi.........................................................................118
More Vino...........................................................................118
Morsels..............................................................................126
Mount Irvine Bay Resort & Golf Club.......168, 169 & 176
MovieTowne Mall.............................. 39, 88, 89, 96 & 154
Nichossa Restaurant.......................................................126
Normandie Hotel...............................................................80
Ocean Grill Tapas Lounge.............................................. 122
Okazions Card & Gift Store.............................................. 53
On Location Art Galleries................................................. 53
Pandora................................................................................11
Pasta Gallery..................................................................... 176
Patino's Restaurant & Bar............................................. 179
Pavilion Restaurant......................................................... 167
Pembois Restaurant & Terrace......................................177
Pigeon Point Heritage Park................................ 156 & 157
Popeyes..............................................................................121
Prestige Holdings Limited................. 108, 109, 114 & 115
PTSC Know Your Country Tours....................................... 75
PTSC Tour & Explore......................................................... 75
Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC)............... 75
R. I. K. Services Ltd............................................................46
Rain Property Management Ltd...................................149
Rainbow Resort................................................................ 143
Rattan's Car Rental.......................................................... 143
Ray Cool...............................................................................40
RBC Royal Bank.................................................................... 3
Regent Star Hotel.................................................. 83 & 124
Republic Bank Limited ...................................... 104 & 105
Restaurant Holdings Limited.........................................121
Revs Steakhouse & Bar.................................................. 178
Rise Grill & Bar Restaurant............................................ 127
Rizzoni's Ristorante Italiano................................112 & 113
Romance Garden...............................................................97
Roosters Restaurant........................................................ 178
Rose Villas 130................................................................. 170
Rouge Sports Bar............................................................. 153
Rovanel's Resort & Conference Centre.............. 97 & 171
Royal Hotel (1978) Limited....................................82 & 83
Ruby Tuesday......................................................... 110 & 111
Rustico.................................................................................39
Salaka Grill Oceanfront
& Poolside Restaurant..................................................177
Samurai Sushi Bar & Steakhouse.................................112
Sarah Beckett.............................................Cover Artist & 2
Seahorse Restaurant & Bar........................................... 179
Sherman's Auto Rentals................................................. 143
Shiann's Food Palace Limited......................................120
Shoes and More Birkenstock..........................................39
Shoppes @ Westcity ................................................ 147
Signature Selection...........................................................42
Soong's Great Wall................................................116 & 117
spa esencia.........................................................................56
Subway....................................................................114 & 115
Sugar Mill Suites..............................................................149
Sunspree Resort Ltd.......................................................166
Surf Side Hotel.................................................................166
T.G.I. Friday's.........................................................108 & 109
Tamnak Thai...................................................................... 125
Telecommunications Services of
Trinidad & Tobago (TSTT)................. Inside Front Cover
Texas de Brazil.......................................................112 & 113
The Art Gallery (TAG).2, 129, 147 & Tobago Cover Artist
The Banquet & Conference Centre................................96
The Centro Restaurant.....................................................110
The Courtyard by Marriott.................................... 80 & 110
The Dreamy Creamy Ice Cream Company.................. 123
The Face & Body Clinic..................................................... 57
The Hummingbird Lounge............................................. 176
The Ministry of Tourism........................ Inside Back Cover
The Normandie Hotel.......................................................80
The Pasta Gallery............................................................. 176
The Pavilion Restaurant................................................. 167
The Regent Star Hotel........................................... 83 & 124
The Rise Grill & Bar Restaurant.................................... 127
The Royal Hotel (1978) Limited............................82 & 83
The Seahorse Restaurant & Bar................................... 179
The Villas at Stonehaven................................... 166 & 167
The Waterfront Restaurant.............................................110
Things Natural.................................................................. 147
Tiki Village.........................................................................108
Tobago Plantations Beach & Golf Resort...................149
Tomley Roberts ................................................................. 53
Toppers Restaurant & Bar.............................................. 127
Tradewinds Hotel...................... 78 & Outside Back Cover
Treehouse Restaurant........................Outside Back Cover
Trinidad & Tobago Tourist Transport Service
Association (T&TTTSA)....................................................65
Tropicalfit 'I'm'....................................................................56
Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort..........................170 & 172
Uncorked.............................................................................40
Villas Are Us Ltd...............................................................149
Villas at Stonehaven........................................... 166 & 167
Vintage Imports Wine Merchants....................................17
VIP Platinum Cinema and Lounge.................................88
Waterfront Restaurant.....................................................110
Wet Swimwear....................................................................40
Zoe Snorkelling Charters.................................................161