THE RECOMMENDED IN-ROOM GUIDE

of The Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants

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

PROJECT CO-ORDINATORS LAYOUT PUBLISHED BY

Patricia Lewis Shayam Karim Caribbean Tourism
Soraya Gonsalves Patricia Lewis Publications Ltd.
The Film Centre
ADVERTISING SALES Soraya Gonsalves
#5 Humphrey Street,
Patricia Lewis Marie Gurley DESIGN St. James
Betti Gillezeau Christine François Tao Howard Trinidad and Tobago
Kieran Khan Katherine Mc Donald Miller Publishing Tel: (868) 622-0738/9
Fax: (868) 622-0426
EDITOR PRODUCTION E-mail: info@insandoutstt.com
Anna Walcott-Hardy Patrice Letren @ insandoutstt
insandoutstt.com
PROOF READER PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
Roslyn Carrington Vanessa Ramtahal

TRINIDAD COVER ARTIST TOBAGO COVER ARTIST

RoSemary HADEED KYAWANA SHAW-ABRAHAM

Always artistically Painting for almost two
inclined, Rosemary decades, Kyawana is
Hadeed opted for probably best known for
a degree in Interior her signature paintings
Design. After thirty of the island’s flora and
successful years, birds. A self-taught
she transitioned artist, her work over the
to the use of oils, years has been a diverse
acrylics and inks, portfolio of iconic local
adopted the artist cultural portraits, taken
name RoSemary, from Carnival or the
and used social Tobago Heritage Festival,
medial as the as well as paintings of
springboard to an children at play. Often
active career in rendered in oil or acrylic,
fine art. RoSemary infused with colour and
describes herself expression, her pieces
as a ‘spontaneous abstract impressionist artist’. Her offer an unique intimacy and vibrancy. Several pieces of
style is typified by bold colours and strong brush- Kyawana’s work are housed at the Shaw Park Cultural
strokes. She manipulates the paint by brush and Complex in Tobago and she currently has work exhibited at
knife to create texture and perspective. Horizon’s Art Gallery, Mucurapo in Trinidad.

FB: @rosemary.hadeed.9 Email: abefam2@gmail.com • Tel: 782-9054

While every care has been taken in the compilation of information contained in this guide, such information is subject to change without notice.
The publishers accept no responsibility for such changes. Copyright © 2020 Caribbean Tourism Publications Ltd.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.
 What’s Inside trinidad
Feature 6 Exploring 48
Calendar 10 Business 70
Festivals 18 Accommodation 82
Shopping 34 Entertainment 92
Health & Beauty 46 Restaurants 110

18
FESTIVALS
48 EXPLORE

12
FETES
106
SPORTS
What’s Inside tobago
Calendar 130 Shopping 150
Feature 132 Entertainment 152
Festivals 135 Accommodation 162
Touring 138 Restaurants 170
Real Estate 149 Fast Facts 176

BEACHES 144
152
ENTERTAINMENT

170
RESTAURANTS
 L-R
Chive Fields
Photo: Christopher Anderson

Moruga Hill Rice

- Vista Dora Estates
Photo: @vistadoradoestate

INSET:
Lettuce field

Home
Photo: Christopher Anderson

Grown
A Culinary Journey Through Trinidad
By Anna Walcott-Hardy

INS & 6 FEATURE

OUTS
 If you travel to Moruga, you will see hills of a lost variety
of wholegrain rice that’s not only delicious, but enriched
with fibre, iron, potassium, calcium and vitamins, that
was brought to Trinidad in 1815 by the Merikins. The
Merikins were African-American marines who fought in
the War of 1812 on the side of the British against the
...the island’s
Americans and after initially serving in Bermuda were culinary offering
given land. These former slaves from the Trans-Atlantic
trade would settle in six Company villages in the is a complex, rich
south of the island, and as landowners they and their
children would become pioneers in several professions brew made from an
including: farming, business, science, medicine, the arts
and academia. Today, farmers like Mark Forgenie, have
innovative mix of
improved the harvesting methods for this unique red,
organic wholegrain rice that has become a staple in
quality ingredients
restaurants across the country.
Miles away in the lush valley of Lopinot, lies the home
and a fusion of
of the infamous Charles Joseph Comte Lopinot de cooking techniques.
la Fresilliere (1738-1819), a Lieutenant-General in the
French Army, who fought with the British, he petitioned
the British Secretary of State for compensation for
lands lost in another island and was granted over 400
acres in Trinidad. Arriving in 1800 in Trinidad with his
family and about 100 slaves he was not granted the

FEATURE  7 INS &

 initial request and instead purchased a sugar estate.
However, he later gained more land as he rose in
rank to Brigadier-General in the Militia. A few years
later, he planted cocoa in the serene valley of La
Reconnaissance estate, that is now owned by the
Government and houses the Lopinot museum. But
Lopinot is just one of many cocoa and sugar estates
that once made Trinidad a world leader. Here is where
it gets even more interesting. Although the cocoa
industry declined in productivity over the years,
there has been a re-surgence, buoyed by innovative
research and training at the Cocoa Research Centre
at The University of the West Indies led by Professor
Umaharan, which also houses a vast gene bank; in
addition a new generation of farmers and chocolatiers
have invested in this global passion for our high grade,
Trinitario chocolate, in an industry that’s expected to
grow exponentially over the next decade. You can
buy local milk or dark chocolates, cocoa nibs, and
cocoa powder in stores nationwide. Some of the
most delectable award-
winning brands include
Brasso Seco Chocolate
Co, Cocobel Chocolates,
Cocoa Republic, JB
Chocolates, Omaribeans
Organic, Suneaters
Organic, TT Fine Cocoa
Company and The Lopinot
Chocolate Company,
among many others.
Several estates also offer
tours and tastings.
For most Trinidadians,
food has always been at
the centre of family life.
There’s an historical connection to every meal and
its preparation is both unique and universal. It’s
about keeping ancient traditions alive during times of
hardship, remembering loved ones and celebrating
milestones.
So it’s not unusual that on an island of over 700,000
people living in cosmopolitan communities that
have age-old traditions from the Caribbean, Africa,
Asia, the Middle East, Europe, South and Central
America or the First Indigenous Peoples, the cuisine
is absolutely delicious and varied.

FROM TOP:
Cocoa Estate, Lopinot
Photos: Christopher Anderson

INSET:
Chocolate Tour -
Brasso Seco Chocolate Company.
Photo: Caribbean Discovery Tours

INS & 8 FEATURE

OUTS
 Parang in Paramin
Photo: Christopher Anderson
The rich soil, tropical climate, with seasonal rainy
and dry seasons, cool nights (21 degrees Celsius) and
warm days (31 degrees Celsius), moderated by the
North East Trade Winds, make a haven for quality
farm fresh produce.
From the street food of Doubles – a curried
channa that’s topped with pepper, mango chutney
and sandwiched between fried Bharra, to Callaloo –
a popular soup made from the blended leaves of the
plant cooked with ochroes, coconut milk, peppers
and then the final touch of crab meat - the choices
are vast. But don’t leave without trying a local staple,
Roti, an East Indian traditional ‘bread’ made from
flour, chick peas and butter, that’s used to wrap the
most delicious combinations of curried chicken, duck,
goat, shrimp, beef, conch, potato, pumpkin, mango,
chick peas or even lobster – the possibilities seem
endless, as are the flavours. You will find Roti shops
throughout the island so ask for recommendations.
And of course there’s the seafood offerings from
lobster to fresh fish, best enjoyed in restaurants or
cafés near to an ocean breeze. If you visit Maracas
Bay make sure to order a Shark and Bake, or you may
prefer Shrimp or King Fish; don’t forget to add your
choice of toppings from lettuce and pineapple to
mango chutney or pepper and drizzle the garlic or
tamarind sauce for a delectable lunch.
Over the years, waves of migrants have come to
Trinidad from across the world: some kidnapped
and brought as slave labour, others as indentured
workers, many seeking new opportunities, others
fleeing religious persecution, poverty or war, while
others were given opportunities to gain “free” land
through the 1783 edict, the Cedula of Population.
Whatever the reason, the island’s culinary offering is
a complex, rich brew that’s made from an innovative
mix of quality ingredients and a fusion of cooking
techniques.
As the gateway to the Americas, Trinidad is located
just seven miles off the coast of Venezuela, you can
find some of the best Arepas stuffed with cheese
or meat as well as, Empañadas filled with avocado,
chicken or cheese in restaurants in Woodbrook, Santa
Cruz or Paramin. The picturesque hills of Paramin,
where the Afro-French and Spanish heritage is alive
and well, not only in the language but also in the
Parang music and harvests of seasonings including
chives, peppers and Shadon Beni, that form the base
of many traditional meals including Pelau, is well
worth the trip. Visit during sunrise or sunset and
enjoy the view of the north coast and the valleys as
you travel along the ridge. And during the Christmas
season enjoy tasty Pastelles filled with pork or
minced beef, currants, olives and pimentos and rolled
into a cornmeal casing which is then wrapped in
banana leaves. And a Christmas celebration is never
complete without the cocktails that can range from
Sorrell, a delectable drink made from the leaves of
the plant, boiled and flavoured with cloves and sugar
that goes perfectly well when mixed with Prosecco, to
the Ginger Beer, Ponche-a-Crème and Petit Ponche.
From people who were intent on surviving and
protecting their heritage by cooking memorable
meals, on an island where fresh fruit hangs idly in so
many gardens and a trip to the beach or river will
often reap a rich harvest of fish and lobster, where
chefs are intent on creating masterpieces, you won’t
leave your new home-away-from-home hungry.
Bon Appetit!
FEATURE  9 INS &
 CARNIVAL calendar
kings &
queens

13,16,21
carnival costume parades
13 20
SENIOR KINGS & QUEENS CONVENTIONAL
PRELIMINARIES INDIVIDUALS COMPETITION
Carnival City, Adam Smith Square,
Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM Port of Spain 7PM

16 21
JUNIOR KINGS & QUEENS DRAGON FESTIVAL
PRELIMINARIES George & Prince Streets
Adam Smith Square 9AM 9AM

panorama 18 TRADITIONAL CARNIVAL

CHARACTERS PARADE

9,16,22
TRADITIONAL INDIVIDUAL Memorial Park, Victoria
COMPETITION Square & Woodford Square
Adam Smith Square, 12 NOON
Port of Spain 7PM
KINGS & QUEENS FINALS
Carnival City,
Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM

9
NATIONAL PANORAMA
SEMI-FINALS
MEDIUM & LARGE BANDS
Carnival City,
Queen’s Park Savannah 1PM
National Semi-Finals
(Savannah Party)

16
NATIONAL PANORAMA

canboulay
FINALS
MEDIUM BANDS
Carnival City,

national
Queen’s Park Savannah 9AM

22 21
NATIONAL PANORAMA
RE-ENACTMENT OF
CANBOULAY RIOTS stickfighting
FINALS
7, 14, 19
Piccadilly Greens, Port of Spain
LARGE BANDS 4AM
Carnival City,
PRELIMINARIES
Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM
SEMI FINALS
FINALS 7PM
 FEBRUARY 2020 EVENTS IN TRINIDAD

24 j’ouvert! 24
&
25 it’s the
carnival monday & tuesday ultimate
23
DIMANCHE GRAS
Carnival City, kiddies 10
NATIONAL
EXTEMPO
18
RAPSO EXPLOSION

CARNIVAL! 20
Queen’s Park PRELIMINARY
Savannah 7:30PM
KAISORAMA – THE NIGHT

15,22
7PM

24 15 OF CHAMPIONS
Carnival City,
Queen’s Park Savannah 7PM
RED CROSS
J’OUVERT JUNIOR
Nationwide
4AM
CARNIVAL
Carnival City, 29
Queen’s Park CARNIVAL LAGNIAPPE
MONDAY Savannah Carnival City,
TRADITIONAL 10 AM Queen’s Park Savannah
PARADE 7PM
Carnival City,
Queen’s Park
22 24
REPUBLIC BANK
Savannah BRASS BACCHANAL
JUNIOR PARADE
9AM Carnival City,
OF BANDS

25 Carnival City, Queen’s Park Savannah

Queen’s Park 9PM
SENIOR PARADE Savannah
OF BANDS 7AM
Carnival Tuesday
Port of Spain 7AM CALYPSO
FIESTA
Skinner Park, 24 Nov
San Fernando NATIO 2019
dimanche gras
N
Queen AL SINGLE
12 NOON ’s Park
Savan
PAN F
INALS
nah, P

17 4 Jan 2

23
ort of
Spain
NATIO
NAL P
ANOR
020
NATIONAL SMAL
LB AMA S
Oppos ANDS EMI FIN
JUNIOR ite Vic
toria S
ALS
quare,
CALYPSO
11 Jan 2 Park S
treet
MONARCH
FINAL
NATIO
SMAL
NAL P
A
020
L BAN NORAMA F
Carnival City, DS INALS
Queen’s Park
19 Jan
Savannah
10AM
NATIO
PANO
NAL J 2020
UNIOR
RAMA
Carniv F
al City INALS
, Quee
n’s Park
Savan
nah
 CARNIVAL fetes
CARNIVAL FÊTES CARNIVAL SHOWS

january 17
MACHEL MONDAY
@MachelMontanoMonk
4 TRIBE ICE TUCO RAPSO
@carnivaltribe EXPLOSION
12 HYDRATE @tuco.trinidadtobago
@carnivaltribe 18 TUESDAY ON
25 STUMPED!!! THE ROCKS 7,
@redantscarnival KES IN CONCERT
@Kestheband
26
UWI FÊTE
@UWIFete 20
TERRIFIC THURSDAY –
NATIONAL CALYPSO

february MONARCHS & EXTEMPO

FINALS
@tuco.trinidadtobago
8 BEACH HOUSE ON THE HILL
www.beachhouse.me 21
THE INTERNATIONAL
SOCA MONARCH,
14
ARMY FÊTE ‘FANTASTIC FRIDAY’
@ArmyFete @itsfantasticfriday
Nadia Batson
15 BLUE RANGE
@redantscarnival CHUTNEY SOCA MONARCH, SCHOOL FÊTES
16 SEMI-FINALS & FINALS

january
SOCA RAFF UP
@houseofsiete @SouthexEvents

19
HYATT LIME 2020 KAISO KARAVAN CALYPSO TENT
12
SOKA IN MOKA XXI
@HyattRegencyTrinidad @kaisokaravan
Trinity College
19 PUNCHY WEDNESDAY BACK TO BASICS CALYPSO TENT @sokainmoka

20 TRIBE IGNITE
NATIONAL CALYPSO QUEEN
COMPETITION
25
OLD HILLARIANS ALL INCL
@carnivaltribe @OldHilarians
- National Women’s Action
21
RISE AND JAM
Committee 25
EVOLVE ALL INCLUSIVE
Presentation Chaguanas
@houseofsiete VINTAGE FUH SO! @evolvefete
23 @HNCPPA

february
BEACH HOUSE 2020
www.beachhouse.me
CALYPSO SPEKTAKULA
23
D’ORIGINAL BREAKFAST THRU THE YEARS
1 FÊTE WITH THE SAINTS
PARTY @valevibe @SpekEvents
ST MARY’S COLLEGE (CIC)
CALYPSO FIESTA, @CICPSU
FINESSE ULTRA-PREMIUM TUCO NATIONAL 2 HOLY NAME CONVENT
@greenhouseeventstt @tuco.trinidadtobago COOLER PARTY
@hncpos
ADDICTION CALYPSO MONARCH SEMI-FINAL
@shurwayne.winchester.
official.personal.page
@tuco.trinidadtobago 2 PRESTIGE – THE FESTIVAL,
PRESENTATION COLLEGE
ONENESS, THE PARTY NATIONAL EXTEMPO @PREStigeFete
@stannsrcchurch PRELIMINARY
@tuco.trinidadtobago
8
FÊTE ROYAL QRC
SUNRISE BREAKFAST PARTY @QRCFeteRoyal
@sunnationjamaica KAISO FUH SO 15
FATIMA FÊTE
CAESAR’S ARMY AM BUSH @trinidadallstars @FatimaOldBoysAssociation
@caesarsarmy
BACCHANAL ROAD 2020
THE OLD YARD 21 PARTY IN PARADISE
(FORMERLY VIEY LA COU) NAPARIMA COLLEGE
@caesarsarmy
@UWI.DCFA @ NapsAssociation
BRIAN LARA ALL-INCLUSIVE
ALTERNATIVE INTERNATIONAL ST FRANCOIS GIRLS’ COLLEGE
SUNNY SIDE UP COMEDY FESTIVAL STRAIGHT OUTTA BELMONT
BREAKFAST PARTY @ACF.TT.World.Wide
@sunnysideuptt - St. Francis Boys College
HILLVIEW COLLEGE
FETE LOVERS ARIMA BOYS’ RC
@trinifetelovers

INS & 12 CARNIVAL CALENDAR

OUTS
CULTURAL calendar
february
EGUNGUN PROCESSION AT
THE OGUN FESTIVAL
Celebration by the Orisha faith

march
10 PHAGWA-HOLI FESTIVAL
Celebrated in fields and
savannahs across the country.
National Council of Indian
Culture NCIC
FB: NCICTT/

30 SPIRITUAL BAPTIST/
SHOUTER LIBERATION DAY

july
Public Holiday

may 2 ST PETER’S DAY

7 FEAST OF LA DIVINA (Fisherman’s Fete)
PASTORA/SOPAREE MAI at Matelot Village
Festival of La Divina Pastora Carenage Roman Catholic
La Divina Pastora RC Church, Church

august
Siparia

23 or 24 1 EMANCIPATION DAY
EID AL-FITR
(OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO)
Public Holiday
Public Holiday
30 INDIAN ARRIVAL DAY Experience the Lidj Yasu
Public Holiday Omowale Emancipation
Re-enactment of the arrival Village in the Queen’s Park
of the Fatel Razack at various Savannah.
beaches throughout Trinidad
and Tobago.
1, 23, 31
31 GANGA DASHAHARA THE FESTIVAL
Devotees make the pilgrimage OF SANTA ROSA
each year to the Marianne Arima
River in Blanchisseuse
11-18
31
MAY CROSS FESTIVAL/ FIRST PEOPLES
CRUZ DE MAYO HERITAGE WEEK
CELEBRATION
Lopinot
14 FIRST PEOPLES DAY
OF RECOGNITION
FB: Santa Rosa First Peoples
Community

22
MAR
GANESH UTSAV
Celebration of the birthday of

10
the Hindu God Lord Ganesh.
Street Parade to Valencia River.
National Council of Indian
Culture NCIC
FB: NCICTT/

30 HOSAY
31 INDEPENDENCE DAY

phagwa
Public Holiday
 2020 EVENTS IN TRINIDAD

october
3 LAUNCH OF PARANG
OCT
3
FESTIVAL 2020
OCTOBER – DECEMBER
Parang at various
communities.
The National Parang
Association of Trinidad
and Tobago
FB: npattofficialpage

25 RAMLEELA
Re-enactment of the
adventures of Shree Ram

parang!
during his incarnation
on earth. Performances
have spread from fields
and village streets
National Ramleela
Council of Trinidad &
Tobago Inc.
nrctt.org

NOV
divali
14

november
14 DIVALI
Public Holiday

DIVALI NAGAR
Week leading up to Divali

december
25 CHRISTMAS DAY
Public Holiday

26 BOXING DAY
Public Holiday

CULTURAL CALENDAR  15 INS &

 EVENTS calendar
february june
3-5
T&T ENERGY

CAFD FASHION WEEK 2020
The Caribbean Academy
CONFERENCE &
TRADESHOW of Fashion and Design
@TTEnergyChamber UTT @thecafd

july
ttenergyconference.org

feb-march
CARNIVAL AT THE CASTLE
Carnival exhibition
Castle Killarney
Queen’s Park Savannah
2-5
TRADE & INVESTMENT
CONVENTION (TIC)
Centre of Excellence, Macoya
www.tic-tt.com
TBA ANGOSTURA BITTER RIVALS

august
TURTLE WATCHING
Leather Back Turtle Watching,
season begins in T&T.
Ends 31st August PAN ON D’AVENUE
Permits are required from Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook
Forestry Division Offices
657-9450; 668-2518; 622-3217
UWI CLASSIC CONCERT
Department of Creative
and Festival Arts
@UWI.DCFA

april
3-5
NEW FIRE FESTIVAL
newfireworld.com

4,11, WOMEN IN JAZZ

18 Fiesta Plaza MovieTowne
28 JAZZ ARTISTS ON THE

GREEN
Farm Road, Saint Joseph september
@ JazzArtistsOnTheGreens 9-15 TRINIDAD+TOBAGO
may
FILM FESTIVAL 2020
www.ttfilmfestival.com

1-3
THE NGC BOCAS LIT NGC SANFEST 2020
FEST Arts & Entertainment,
www.bocaslitfest.com San Fernando Arts Council,
@bocaslitfest Creative Arts Centre
www.sfactt.weebly.com
2
JAZZ UNDER THE STARS
Green Meadows, Santa
Cruz
@jazzunderthestarstt
october
CALYPSO HISTORY MONTH
www.tucott.com
23
NORTH COAST JAZZ
FESTIVAL SOUTHEX
Festival Grounds, Sir INTERNATIONAL EXPO
Solomon Hochoy Park, Gulf City Mall
Blanchisseuse www.southex.co.tt
@NCJazz

TBA FIRST CITIZENS

november
CLASSIC JEWELS XII
NATIONAL Trinidad All Stars
POETRY SLAM trinidadallstars.org
@FCNPS

INS & 16 EVENTS CALENDAR

OUTS
FEATURE  17 INS &
festivals
Photo: Devi Nath Photography
 Carnival
the annual return By Sheldon Waithe

Like a visit to the Fountain of Youth, the mind, body, soul & psyche craves the
Carnival season to revitalize, refresh and reset. It’s the ultimate annual return, the
festive few weeks that sees the revisit start with a bang and then explode into that
final Carnival weekend. The journey ends of course with Mas’ and then it’s time for
your ‘Carnival tabanca’, where you’re sad that it’s all over but smiling because of
the time that you had.
The faint musings begin in August the previous year, with the band launches that are elaborate fashion
shows and a harbinger of what’s to come in six months. This being associated with Carnival, it naturally evolves
into a fête. By the time Christmas is over and the New Year is on the horizon, the first songs are hitting the
airwaves; a few amongst you will initially claim that one or two tunes are not to your liking but that sacrilege
is soon forgotten as the rhythm takes over your body and soon changes your mind.
By early January, steelpan notes fill the night air, as songs are chosen by various bands for the Panorama
competition. Calypso Tents throw open their doors, welcoming all with lyrical dexterity as the bards within
cover subjects as diverse as local politics, global issues, sporting achievements and personal relationships.
The pace ramps-up with the proliferation of fêtes. Glamorous fêtes, wet fêtes, cooler fêtes, breakfast fêtes,
boat fêtes; every possible niche is covered, all delivering revelry on an unmatched scale. From lazers and
fireworks at night to being soaked in colour and water as the sun rises, with singers belting out their brand of
Soca intoxication, the fête is the pathway to Mas’.

INS & 20 FESTIVALS

OUTS
 TOP LEFT CLOCKWISE
J’Ouvert
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Carnival Band ‘K2K Alliance -

Through the Stained
Glass Windows’ 2019
Photo: Maria Nunes

HADCO Phase II Pan Groove

Photo: Maria Nunes

The splendour extends to the

stage where the Kings and Queens
of the bands strike the senses with
incredulity of perfection in design
and construction. That fabric, beads,
feathers and wire can capture
the ethos of the band’s theme so
magnificently, it is another realm of
the Carnival.
Come the big weekend, it’s almost
impossible to keep up, for on the
menu are history, the macabre,
competition finals and the ultimate
freedom that is J’Ouvert. The clash of
stick fighting breaks the early Carnival
Friday dawn, the re-enactment of
the Canboulay Riots is the signal that
from now on it’s “pace to the end”.
That evening sees the marathon
Soca Monarch competition, crowning
the world’s best and continuing the
velocity towards ‘d road’. Pan, sweet
pan, on Saturday night is as close to
a respite that you will get.
Monday brings mud, cocoa, paint
and powder; doused from head to
toe, you’re even unrecognizable
to yourself and that’s the idea of
J’Ouvert. This is liberation, Trini style.
The turnaround is both figurative
and physical, for mere hours later you
are glammed up, glittered and ready
for the road. You spend two glorious
days raving to the beat of Soca in
impossibly beautiful costumes.
On Ash Wednesday, weary but
happy, all that occupies your mind is
how long until Carnival returns?

FESTIVALS  21 INS &

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

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

The
Greatest FROM THE TOP
Panorama

Show! Photo: Maria Nunes

Kiddies Carnival
Photo: Devi Nath
Photography

Traditional Mas
Photo: Maria Nunes

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

King & Queen of Carnival

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

INS & 22 SECTION NAME HERE

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

Soca Monarch
Also known as ‘Fantastic Friday’ for good reason,
this is the official World Championship of Soca. The
Hasely Crawford Stadium lights up at 7pm - and sees
the finalists portray their songs with special effects,
surprise guests and superb performances - until 4am.
This is the crowning moment for the songs that have
kept you moving all season long. www.socamonarch.net/

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

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

FROM THE TOP

JAB JAB
Photo: Ziad Joseph

Dame Lorraine
Photo: Ziad Joseph

Carnival Tuesday ‘on the Stage’

Photo: Devi Nath Photography

CARNIVAL  23 INS &

 MOKO
power By Anna Walcott-Hardy

“It’s a different world up there. I love it,” For graphic

designer Kriston Chen, walking in twenty-foot wooden
stilts, whether in Alice Yard or at the Queen’s Park
Savannah, is a liberating experience.
“This year (2019), I played with Moko Sõmõkow’s
Palace of the Peacock, as one of the forest
spirits. The band has grown from last year and
there’s been an incredible amount of support
from the public leading up to this year’s
Carnival. Winning Queen and Band of the
Year is a nod to the power of Moko Jumbies
and Traditional Mas’.” Kriston explained.
Having grown-up as a minority in
Trinidad, he has at times been heckled as
being foreign, a “Chinese” rather than as
a Trinidadian.
However, as he explained in the
engaging film ‘Lifted’ that premiered
at the ttfilm festival at Carifesta, when
people see him stilt-walking the focus
is inclusive.
In 2017, after his return from
studying in New Orleans at Tulane
University, gaining a Master’s
Degree in Public Health and
an Associate’s degree in
graphic design at Parsons, The New School
for Design in New York City, Kriston wanted to launch a
community project to help a new generation find a source
of tradition and camaraderie.

From the band

Moko Sõmõkow

INS & 24 FESTIVALS

OUTS
 The project has gone on to become a huge success
and also brought a greater understanding and education
on the plight of refugees from neighboring countries
including Venezuela. Known as 1,000 Mokos, the
programme which was launched at Chris Cozier
and Sean Leonard’s creative space, Alice Yard in
Woodbrook, aims to bring communities together by
teaching, for free, the art of stilt-walking. The team also
hopes to break a world record of enrolling over 1,000
participants into this Afro-Caribbean art-form. Just
two years later, the workshops and training sessions
have ensured that they’ve crossed the one thousand
mark.
As for the future - Kriston remains optimistic.
“I sometimes hear people say Traditional Mas’ is
dying. It’s not. For anyone who has ever visited a
Moko Jumbie Mas’ Camp, or Blue Devil or Fancy
Sailor, you know very well the thing is alive. I’ve
met some of the best people in these camps.
The energy is electric and the creativity is insane.
People are falling in love all over again with mas’.”

FROM LEFT CLOCKWISE

Kriston Chen
Photo: Maria Nunes

From the band Moko Sõmõkow

Photo: RAPSO Imaging

‘Yardcore’ initiative
Photos: Shaun Rambaran

SECTION NAME HERE  25 INS &

 BP Renegades Steel Orchestra

INSET:
Ray Holman
Photos: Maria Nunes

The Art of
Pan Arranging
A CONVERSATION WITH THE LEGENDARY RAY HOLMAN
By Paul Hadden

In the world of pan, Ray Holman needs no introduction. He is a talented

composer, arranger, and pannist whose musical arrangements have won
several awards over the years. As we sat in his Woodbrook home, facing a
pair of Double Second Pans, Holman gave a glimpse into his approach.

INS & 26 FESTIVALS

OUTS
 “Visualization,” he explained, “is key, but you must be
very careful about what you are focusing on. I never
Panorama 2019
arrange a piece with the judges in mind. What I do instead Large Conventional
Band Winners
is I try to recreate the Carnival atmosphere in my mind; I
try to see the crowd listening to the song, and imagine
their reaction. I think about the way that the music will
make people want to dance, I see them in my mind going
down the road jamming to my song. That is what will 1st BPTT Renegades
guide the kind of music I make, and the sort of vibrancy 138 Charlotte Street,
that the piece will produce.” Port of Spain
The annual Panorama competition for which much pan Arranger: Duvone Stewart
music is arranged takes place in the weeks and days leading
up to Carnival, and is normally held around February or 2nd Desperadoes
March. But as much as preparation is key to success in Tragarete Road,
music, Holman spoke of the difficulties of trying to arrange Newtown (Panorama)
pan music from September or October, before the Carnival Arranger: Carlton ‘Zanda’ Alexander
the following year. “It’s the breeze,” he explained. “When
December comes and the cool Christmas breeze starts to 3rd Massy Trinidad All Stars
blow, and you can begin to feel the Carnival vibration in 46-48 Duke Street, Port of Spain
the air, well that’s when the inspiration truly begins to hit.” Arranger: Leon ‘Smooth’ Edwards
“You can’t only depend on inspiration of course,” he
continued, “time is a precious thing and you can’t waste 4th
Shell Invaders
any of it just waiting for inspiration. When it comes to Queen’s Park Oval, Car Park,
music, you need to be disciplined and plan your tune Woodbrook
well in advance. But trust me, when you get that surge of Arranger: Arddin Herbert
inspiration, well that’s the icing on the cake. Remember
though, that you need to make sure you have a good cake 5th Caribbean Airlines Skiffle
before you ice it!” Coffee Street, San Fernando
The pieces, he stressed, also need to be musically solid, Arranger: K. Williams,
as well as complex and interesting. “You aren’t looking to O. Gonzales & M.Brooks
create a flimsy sound. You never want the music to sound
trite. What you want is something clean, warm, rich, and 6th HADCO Phase 11 Pan Groove
with body.” 15 Hamilton Street Street, Woodbrook
I asked if there’s a personal deadline for completing the Arranger: Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe
Panorama arrangements. “Honestly, it’s ready when it’s
ready. A piece of pan music is always a work in progress, 7th First Citizen Supernovas
and you have to be open to changes, as well as to Surrey Village, Lopinot Road, Arouca
suggestions from others. Sometimes, a player might hit a Arranger: Amrit Samaroo
wrong note in the panyard, and it ends up sounding better
than what you had originally envisioned.” He joked about 8th Nutrien Silver Stars
a time while composing for Starlift that he made a few 56 Tragarete Road,
quick last minute changes to the piece almost just before Newtown, Port of Spain
the band wheeled the pans on to the Savannah stage to Arranger: Liam Teague
face the judges.
Ultimately, steel pan music is dynamic, it’s just as much 9th Republic Bank Exodus
about the synergy of the players, the composer, and the St Johns Road,
crowd, as it is about musical technicality and expertise. Eastern Main Road & John Road,
In the pan yard, it’s easy to see how the composer feeds St. Augustine
off of the energy of the pannists, as well as those who Arranger: Pelham Goddard
have come to see the band practice. Holman struggles to
describe the Carnival vibe, it must really be experienced to 10th T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps
be understood. However, all you need to do is take a quick Southern Main Road,
visit to a panyard during the Carnival season, watch the Enterprise Village, Chaguanas
music come alive, and you will understand exactly what Arranger: Clarence Morris
he’s talking about.

FESTIVALS  27 INS &

 Multi Cultural Festivals
By Bavina Sookdeo

Whether you are able to experience the serenity of the smoke

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

INS & 28 FESTIVALS

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

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

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

TOP LEFT
Phagwa
Photo: Maria Nunes

BOTTOM RIGHT
Ganga Dashahara
Photo: Lisa Fernandez/Lifepyx

FESTIVALS  29 INS &

Ganesh Utsav
DATE: DURING THE HINDU MONTH
OF BHADO – USUALLY BETWEEN THE
MONTHS OF AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER
(DEPENDING ON THE MOON)
Celebrated throughout the
diaspora, Danesh Utsav has grown
tremendously. Celebrated at many
temples, not only in the South
of Trinidad, but throughout the
island, celebrating Lord Ganesha’s
birthday which ends with the visarjan
(immersion) of a massive murti (clay
model) in rivers and seas. You can
witness this at beaches across the
island, including Manzanilla, Tyrico,
Mayaro and several rivers.
Divali
DATE: USUALLY CELEBRATED
IN OCTOBER OR NOVEMBER.
Known as the festival of lights,
thousands of deyas (clay pots) are lit
with the traditional oil and wick but the
Hindu festival also features wax deyas
and electrical lights. The community
spirit is still present as many non-
Hindus join in the welcoming of
Mother Lakshmi into their homes,
recognizing the conquest of good
over evil, light over darkness, with
puja (prayer) after fasting.
Muslim Festivals
Ramadhan and Eid-Ul-Fitr
DATE: RAMADHAN FALLS WITHIN THE NINTH MONTH
OF THE ISLAMIC LUNAR CALENDAR. 
The month in which the Holy Quran was revealed to the holy Prophet
Muhammad by Angel Gabriel is celebrated by Muslims throughout the
world. Locally, Muslims maintain a strict fast throughout the month of
Ramadhan and at the end,  await the sighting of the moon for Eid-ul-
Fitr to be declared. On the day of Eid-ul-Fitr, mosques or Muslim homes
welcome friends and family to celebrate the day.
Eid-Ul-Adha
DATE: CELEBRATED EVERY YEAR ON THE 10TH OF DHUL HIJJAH,
WHICH IS A MONTH ON THE LUNAR CALENDAR.
Eid-ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, marks the willingness of the Prophet
Ibrahim (Father Abraham to Christians) to sacrifice his beloved son,
Ismaeel, in obedience to the will of God. The sacrifice made by Muslims
on this day is all in the emulation of Ibrahim’s willingness to end the life of
his son for Allah. The meat of sheep, goats and cows are cooked and the
meals shared with family, friends, and the less fortunate.
Hosay
DATE: CELEBRATED IN THE MUHURRAM MONTH OF THE MUSLIM
CALENDAR, 10 DAYS AFTER THE APPEARANCE OF THE NEW MOON.
You may have known Hosay to be a Muslim festival but it is important to
note that it was originally performed only by the Shiites (a Muslim sect)
and has changed in tone and scope over the years. Many of the events
take place not only in St. James, but also in Cedros and Tunapuna. Geared
towards honouring brothers  Hosein  and Hassan (the grandsons of
Prophet Muhammad) who were murdered, the festival has maintained
its structure of flag night, Small Tadjah night and Big Tadjah Night.
FROM TOP
Hosay
Photo: Richard Lyder
Chowtaal
Photo: Edison Boodoosingh
Christian Festivals
 

Major events on the Christian calendar include  Christmas,

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

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

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

Our Lady of Guadeloupe Catholic Church,

Paramin
Photo: Maria Nunes

FESTIVALS  31 INS &


FROM TOP
Emancipation Flambeau Parade
Nona Lopez Calderon Galera
Moreno Aquan, the new Carib
Queen prospective of the Arima
First Peoples
Photos: Edison Boodoosingh
INS & 32 FESTIVALS
OUTS
Multicultural
Festivals
Emancipation Day
T&T’s Emancipation Day continues to grow in size and popularity,
featuring lectures, workshops, concerts that are mostly
concentrated around the LidjYasu Omowale Emancipation Village
in the Queen’s Park Savannah. This usually begins days before the
official holiday. Thousands gather on this auspicious day in T&T’s
history for the  Canboulay  procession through the streets of the
nation’s capital, Port of Spain.  The Trans-Atlantic slave trade can
be considered one of the greatest tragedies in human history.  In
1985, Trinidad and Tobago became the first country in the world to
commemorate the abolition of slavery, choosing August 1st as the
date in recognition of the August 1st, 1834 enactment of the British
Emancipation Act.
First Peoples Heritage Celebrations 
Every October  a week of festivities showcase the First People’s
culture as they also embark on educating other citizens on their
legacy. A trip to Arima, an Amerindian stronghold, is where you
can see the smoke ceremony, performed by a shaman at the base
of the statue of Hyarima, a venerated chieftain, as they honour the
ancestors and the earth through prayers and song. A procession is
then led through the streets by Amerindian royalty, dressed in full
regalia. You can join in as feasting and celebration follows.
Odun Egungun
After centuries of African enslavement and religious persecution,
those of the Orisha faith  can  now openly celebrate. The
Ile  Ijosin  Otura  Meji  Awon  Osun  organizes the annual festival
where sacred rituals are performed. As the spirits of the ancestors
manifest through the Egungun, performers are attired in robes and
masks; a  lively  street procession follows  with  dancers, drummers
and singers.
Spiritual Shouter Baptist
DATE: MON, 30 MARCH 2020
The Spiritual Shouter Baptists were banned from practising
their religion  in Trinidad from 1917 to 1951 by the  Colonial
government. Forcing the Baptists to meet in secrecy in hideaways
at odd hours to practise their religion. In the  1920s and 1930s,
their fight was gaining strength and leaders including iconic
labour unionist, Tubal Uriah ‘Buzz’ Butler came forth. March 30th,
1951  Grenadian-born Elton George Griffith  worked long and hard
to have the Prohibition Ordinance repealed. In the year 1996, the
Spiritual Shouter Baptists were granted an annual public holiday.
Today, Baptists in T&T celebrate their religion on this day.
O Come all
Ye Faithful
By Bavina Sookdeo
Parang in Paramin

Almost everyone gets excited about the start of the

Christmas season which begins for us on September
25th – the beginning of the Parang season. September is
also Parang History Month, and just after, the increasingly
popular Parang Festival begins as a gradual build up to
Christmas.
President of NPATT, Alicia Jaggasar explained that the Association’s Start of
primary focus for the next three years is “to rekindle the spirit of
Parranda at Christmas throughout our communities, and to inform parang
the public about Parang, its origins and its traditions, to ensure the
survival of this art form.” She added that NPATT’s current mission season:
is also aimed at opening up regional, national and international
opportunities to present, promote and effectively market the works
September
of artists in the association. The junior leg of the annual competition,
“Viva La Tradición” involves thirty primary and twenty secondary
schools nationwide who compete for national honours at their
respective levels.
Some of NPATT’s 2020 initiatives are: CarniParang for Carnival,
Easter Parang in April, Maypole Festival in May, workshop and master
classes for Bands Juniors and Seniors in July.

For further information visit www.npatt.com

FESTIVALS  33 INS &

shopping

Photo: Patricia Lewis

 COME
HOME
senses
TO YOUR
By Roslyn Carrington

We all love a little retail therapy;

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

But shopping in Trinidad isn’t only

about what we can possess; it’s about the
experience.
Feast your eyes on the infinite
combinations of shapes and colours you’ll
find among our many art galleries and
private ateliers. Styles vary from artist to
artist, mood to mood. Admire paintings
reminiscent of the old masters, or those
with a more modern flavour.
Our innate sense of high style and
fashion are always on display as local
designers present creations that can hold
their own on any catwalk. Flaunt the new
you; snap a selfie for those back home.
Top off your outfit with a pair of designer
shades from Look Opticians.
The best boutiques stock top cosmetic
brands alongside local artisanal products,
produced in small batches using natural
local and imported ingredients. You
can get these, along with a wide range
of makeup and personal products, at
places like Excellent Stores, the largest
department store chain in the country.
Slide into crisp, fresh sheets, sink into
fluffy pillows, and relax on bespoke
furniture. It’s your choice: traditional

INS & 36 SHOPPING

OUTS
SHOPPING  37 INS &
 wood, solid wrought iron, brass, or edgy stainless
steel. An inviting piece of furniture is a souvenir
that will grace your home for years. Drop in at Fen
Mohammed, Signature Selection or Mi Casa, three of
our largest furniture stores, and view their exquisite
collections. For longer stays, Batch Caribbean is the
place for professional-level kitchen equipment and an
impressive array of knives.
Enjoy exquisite perfumes, from sensual to woodsy
to tangy and fresh; choose from perfumes, colognes,
scented powders and more in department stores,
mall outlets and fine boutiques. One of our favourites
is DUFRY, a well-stocked duty-free shop at Piarco
International Airport where you can stop on your way
in and out.
Admit it; our amazing cuisine is part of the reason
you came here. The spices, the delicacies, the bursts
of unexpected flavour that make local food and drink
unique. You’ll certainly want to eat out, but if you have
the time, try a new recipe. You can buy ingredients at
any of the chain supermarkets, mini-marts or specialty
outlets. Gourmet shops like Malabar Farms in Maraval
offer an array of meats, fruit and veggies, cheeses
and canned or dried goods. But don’t you dare leave
without dessert. To accompany your meal, delight your
palate with wines from Vintage Imports or Fernandes
Fine Wines & Spirits. Go ahead; you’re on vacation!
You may be all shopped out, but your energy will
be renewed once you turn-up the volume. You can
find CDs of many local artists from genres ranging
from Soca to Chutney to reggae and Jazz. Of course,
in keeping with the times, most local music is also
downloadable.
Shopping in Trinidad is an immersive adventure.
Surround yourself, lose yourself, and give in to its allure.
Let your senses come home to a place where they can
come alive again.

Look, touch,
smell, taste,
and listen

INS & 38 SHOPPING

OUTS
SHOPPING  39 INS &
 ART &Literature

ARTIST: PETER SHEPPARD

@petersheppardART
INS & 40 SECTION NAME HERE
OUTS
Art de Joulie
(868) 344-4025
artdejoulie@gmail.com; www.artdejoulie.com
At Art de Joulie you will discover colourful, vibrant and happy
art inspired by the Caribbean lifestyle created by Trinidadian
artist/director Paulette Narinesingh. The imagery featured on
our merchandise is replicated from original artwork created by
Paulette and makes delightful gifts or memories to treasure. Our
merchandise can be found at the following locations: Karie’s Kraft
Piarco Airport, Shore Things Café & Craft Lambeau Tobago, Bambu
Crown Point Tobago, Sun Tings Frederick Street Port of Spain,
Sapodilla Trincity Mall or call to arrange a visit to our studio.
THINKARTWORKTT Studio
(868) 769-1948
thinkartworktt@gmail.com
www.thinkartworktt.com
THINKARTWORKTT Studio, founded by visual artist and mentor,
Fitzroy Hoyte. Established in 2017, it is essentially a creative
platform and space that facilitates the transference of artistic
knowledge, skills and ideas. TAW Studio strives to promote local
creatives, focusing on their individual needs, while also uplifting
emerging artists through mentoring. The studio provides a platform
for networking between artists of various backgrounds and artistic
media as well as a plethora of services to the public of Trinidad and
Tobago, both physically and virtually
SHOPPING  41 INS &
meet a Trini
Whether you’re an
historian or art collector,
it doesn’t matter, a
trip to Trinidad isn’t
complete without
viewing the works of one
of the island’s foremost
watercolorists.
Donald Hinkson,
known as Jackie, is an award-winning prolific
painter with a gift for capturing the light and
life of the Caribbean.
Born in 1942 in ‘Cobo Town’ , Port of Spain,
he trained in Paris at the Academie Julien
(1963-64) and at the University of Alberta,
Canada (1965-70). He was influenced at an
early age by the works of Cézanne, Turner
and Winslow Homer and in later years after
joining the Trinidad Art Society, recalled that
he “stood in admiration before the works of
Atteck, Chang, Alladin, Holder, Stollmeyer,
Basso, Lamming, Salvatori and others. They
all affirmed something about our culture, our
landscape, our light”.
And it is this affirmation of people and
place that makes Jackie’s work of interest to
historians, collectors and art curators.
In the 1950s, as a young boy, he travelled
with his father and brothers across the country,
and what he saw left a mark.
“We accompanied our father in his working
trips as a traveling officer to coconut estates
and country shops. It was a rougher Mayaro,
where the sea air mixed with the smell of copra.
I never forgot that Mayaro of my childhood.”
INS & 42 MEET A TRINI
OUTS
Donald ‘Jackie’ Hinkson
MASTER ARTIST
By Anna Walcott-Hardy
For over half a century, he has tried to capture
this sense of community and closeness to
nature in his paintings of homes, from Mayaro
to Lambeau. His dexterity as a draughtsman
can be seen in the hundreds of drawings in pen,
pencil or conté crayon of historical buildings,
some adjacent to modern skyscrapers, many of
these colonial structures having lost the battle
have been demolished in a day.
His watercolour washes are Homeric, perfectly
weighted, the tones incredibly accurate. He
prefers plein air watercolours which in the
Caribbean require tenacity, patience and agility,
the weather may change from stark sunshine
to rain in minutes and sometimes residents
may be uncomfortable with any intrusion by
a stranger. But Jackie’s unassuming manner
and technical skill have allowed him to take
the viewer into remarkable spaces throughout
these twin-islands - from urban backyards to
pristine sun-bleached beaches; the Queen’s
Park Oval during a cricket match; a pan yard at
midnight. The view is cinematic and subtle, the
narrative unique.
Jackie Hinkson’s work is on display at The
National Museum, Victoria Institute in Port of
Spain, as well as at The University of the West
Indies Alma Jordan Library, St Augustine and
on sale at art galleries throughout Trinidad.
Buy the Book By Anna Walcott-Hardy
BERYL McBURNIE
Judy Raymond
UWI Press

Known simply
as Beryl to her
MODERN friends, or La Belle
CARIBBEAN CUISINE Rosette to those
Wendy Rahamut who knew of her
New York stage
You can enjoy those delicious name when she
Caribbean dishes and eclectic flavours performed there
even after your holiday has come to in the 1940s, Mc
an end. The well-known host of the Burnie was in a
TV cooking series Caribbean Flavours, league of her own.
Wendy Rahamut has given pages This biography by
of easy-to-make recipes in colour Judy Raymond,
coded-sections – from seafood and published in
soups to salads, breads and cakes, 2018, examines
that ensure that you take away some the dedicated
of that delicious fusion of West Indian research and
flavour. determination of the “imperious, flighty,
charming” dancer and choreographer, who
founded the Little Carib Theatre, a catalyst
for a new generation of not only dancers,
IN A WORLD but actors, playwrights as well as musicians,
during a time of socio-political upheaval
OF THEIR OWN and independence in the Caribbean. One
CARNIVAL DREAMERS in the acclaimed, innovative new series of
Caribbean biographies launched by the
& MAKERS UWI Press, the publication “portrays the
Maria Nunes woman, explores the influences that shaped
Robert & Christopher Publishers Mc Burnie and those whom she influenced
in turn, and tells of her struggle to realize
For over a decade the prolific a vision she nurtured for decades…” (UWI
photographer, Maria Nunes, has been Press).
documenting the traditions of Trinidad’s
Carnival. With over 300 colour and
black and white images, this book will GARDENING IN TRINIDAD
take you into the backyards, homes, workshops and studios of some of
the most revered masters of the tradition, to the new generation of artists & TOBAGO: OUR STYLE
that are transforming the landscape. To say that she has an innate eye The Garden Club of Trinidad
for detail, is an understatement, Nunes’ historical knowledge and aptitude
for narrative make each image a layered, visual delight. The book also Published to
features an essay by the award-winning writer Shivanee Ramlochan, mark the 25th
as well as excerpts from interviews with iconic artists including: Adrian anniversary of
Young, Etienne Charles, Narcenio ‘Senor’ Gomez, Steffano Marcano, Tracey the Garden Club
Sankar-Charleau and Wendell Manwarren. of Trinidad, this
elegant coffee
table book
highlights some
GOLDEN CHILD of the most
Claire Adam stunning gardens
Faber & Faber in the island. From small urban spaces
to sprawling verdant oases, landscaping
You can tell the quality of a book from its first techniques and traditions are featured to
paragraph, and Claire Adam takes the reader on a promote exactly what makes Trinidadian
carefully-crafted, haunting and at times harrowing gardens so appealing. “The juxtaposition of
tale from the first page to the last. “Only Trixie is colours, shapes and sizes of plants are truly
at the gate when he pulls up. She is sitting on her inspirational: from the delicate perfection
haunches staring at something across the road, her of orchids like the endemic yellow variety
forelegs planted in front of her, solid as tree stumps.” to the vibrant flowering Poui and Petrea,
First-time Trinidadian novelist, now based in London, perfumed beauty of Ylang Ylang…this
Adam writes in clear, concise yet incredibly elegant publication takes us into veritable gardens
prose about a Trinidadian family’s struggle to survive in a world rank with of Eden,” Dr Sterling Frost, Deputy Chief
strife, bias, opportunity, envy and ultimately love; engaging themes that Executive Officer of First Citizens, sponsors
run parallel to those within the wider community and country. Warning: of the publication explained. Definitely a
you won’t want to put this novel down, so get ready for the ride. must-buy!

SHOPPING  43 INS &

 artisan
MARKETS
By Roslyn Carrington
One of the best ways to
immerse yourself in the island
vibe again and again is to visit
the artisan markets. Hardly a
weekend goes by without a
gathering of artisans, chefs,
entrepreneurs and farmers
displaying their fare on
decorated tables, while the
aroma of freshly baked breads
and pastries and the sound of
Caribbean music fills the air.
INDULGE YOUR INNER
GOURMAND
Sample local delicacies . . .
many of them whipped-up on
the spot. Move from booth to
booth and put together a three-
course meal, with appetizers
like corn soup, arepas or accras;
entrees like roasted meats with
sweet potatoes or macaroni
pie; and crave-able desserts.
Then it’s your choice of freshly-
squeezed juices, coconut water
or home-made wines.
INS & 44 SHOPPING
OUTS
Photo: RAPSO Imaging
HUNT FOR BARGAINS
Handmade jewellery, souvenirs
and ornaments; soaps, body
butters and perfumed oils; designer
clothing, cotton sundresses and
comfy leather sandals; fresh fruit
and veggies. You won’t leave
empty-handed.
LEARN & LIVE
Many markets hold mini-
lectures, demonstrations and
awareness days. Discover the art
of paper-making, learn how to
make chocolate truffles, get tips
on organic farming or recycling.
It’s food for your mind.
MAKE MEMORIES
Spend a few hours sampling,
tasting and trying on. Find the
perfect gift—for yourself or
someone else. Chat with the
vendors. Reconnect with old
acquaintances or make new ones.
Fill your basket with treasures . . .
and fill your heart with joy at the
artisan markets.
GREEN MARKET SANTA CRUZ
Every Saturday (select Sundays),
Saddle Road, Santa Cruz.
Facebook: GreenMarketSantaCruz
NAMDEVCO FARMERS’ MARKETS
Every Friday at Point Fortin; alternating Fridays
at San Fernando and Rio Claro; every Saturday
at Queen’s Park Savannah, Chaguanas and
Diego Martin; every Sunday at Debe and
Macoya; every other Sunday at Couva.
Facebook: NAMDEVCO
THE EASTERN MARKET
JFK Auditorium,
University of the West Indies
Facebook: The Eastern Market
THE SOUTH MARKET
Monthly at Naparima College
in San Fernando.
Facebook: southmarket
UPICK TT
Chaguaramas. Tuesday to Sunday.
You can pick fresh fruit and vegetables.
Facebook: upicktt
UPMARKET
Once a month
(more often closer to Christmas)
at the Woodbrook Youth Facility.
Facebook: UpMarketTT
Artist Hazel Marshall
Photo: Patricia Lewis
 sweet HOME
HOME
By Roslyn Carrington

We have some of the best varieties of cocoa in the

world, and many artisans are taking up the mantle of
their forefathers, producing hand-made chocolates
prepared with roasted nuts, dried fruit, and spices.
Tamarind balls are still made using a traditional mix of
sweet, salt and spicy flavours; while Bene balls, crunchy
candy made of toasted sesame seeds, are a beloved
Tobagonian treat.
There may be 101 things you can do with coconut,
but sugar cake is definitely a favourite, from pink-
tinted shredded squares to robust chip-chip robed in
caramelized brown sugar.
Candied citrus peel is a rare treat, especially from
the peach-coloured shaddock, a large variety of pink
grapefruit. But the candied white peel of the grapefruit
is also delicious.
East Indian sweets are a favourite and widely shared
during major feasts. Gulab jamool, jelabi, peera, barfi,
ladoo and prasad, are as delectable as they sound. So
stock up on sweets for your sweet . . . and yourself, too.

Photos: Shaun Rambaran

SECTION NAME HERE  45 INS &

 coconut water
1
Apart from being
nutritious, great for your
health and full of anti-
2
oxidants, Coconut Water
is absolutely delicious.
Botanically registered as
a fruit more than a nut,
the cocos nucifera, takes
3
about 8-12 months to
mature as a palm tree.
The water in the green
nut nourishes the fruit
4
and as the tree matures
so does the jelly, which
can be grated, water
added and used in local
5
dishes like pelau and
callaloo. Either way it’s
been a treat for centuries
in the topics, that’s
now becoming a trend
abroad.
INS & 46 HEALTH & BEAUTY
OUTS
Health & Beauty
TOP 5
REASONS
TO STOP AND HAVE A COCONUT WATER
‘ROUND THE SAVANNAH
AFTER THE GYM OR A RUN, hydrate and replenish your electrolytes
with a drink straight from the shell that’s low in calories and full of
nutrients. In just one cup (250ml) you’ll get- 46 calories, 3 grams
of fibre, Vitamin C (10% of RDI), Magnesium 15%, Manganese 17%,
Potassium 17%, Sodium 11%, and Calcium 6%.
MAY HELP LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE. In a small human study it was
found that coconut water which is high in potassium, assisted with
improved systolic blood pressure in 71% of participants.
MAY PREVENT KIDNEY STONES. Animal studies have proven that
coconut water may assist with preventing kidney stones from
attaching to the kidneys and from crystals forming.
MAY LOWER LOWER BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS and improve health
markers. Studies in animals have shown that it can assist with
reducing sugar levels and is also a good source of magnesium which
is effective in increasing insulin sensitivity.
MIX IT UP: LOW IN CALORIES AND FULL OF NUTRIENTS, Coconut
Water can add that extra pep to a vinaigrette dressing for your
salad, add that punch to a tropical fruit smoothie or make that
cocktail of White Rum and Coconut Water at sunset extra special.
Spa Esencia
(868) 821-6500
1 Wrightson Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
spa.esencia@hyatt.com | trirt.reservation@hyatt.com
trinidad.regency.hyatt.com
Inspired by the beauty of Trinidad & Tobago’s colorful island environment, Spa
Esencia is a natural reflection of the diverse heritage and celebratory culture that
gives Trinidad & Tobago its unique character.
Offering authentic spa treatments based on Trinidad & Tobago’s natural bounty
and non-stop festival calendar – time to PREPARE, INDULGE, DETOX and RE-
TREAT – guests are invited to complement and extend the festivities, embrace
the essence of Trinidad & Tobago and achieve their desired results.
Utilizing elements indigenous to Trinidad & Tobago as well as results-orient-
ed, international products, our expert staff at Spa Esencia promote complete
well-being and the quality of experience for each guest by further customizing
treatments to meet individual needs.
explore
Woodland Village
Photo: Christopher Anderson
 Divine
Discoveries
By Sheldon Waithe

Variety, they say, is the spice of

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

INS & 50 EXPLORE

OUTS
North
Lopinot House
Houses don’t come more picturesque than this gem located in the
Tunapuna area. With a museum full of historical artefacts within
and manicured estate grounds outside, the guides will take you on
a historical journey of the former cocoa estate, while Samaan trees
provide nature’s shade as you picnic in the peaceful gardens. Across
the sheltered wooden bridge, history, culture, fun and serenity awaits.
T: 799 9783

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

Shark River (Toco)

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

TOP
Trail to Paragran Beach
Photo: Christopher Anderson

BOTTOM LEFT TO RIGHT

Turtle Rock, view from hike
to Paria Bay and Waterfall
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Lopinot House
Photo: Aarti Gosein

TOP RIGHT
North Coast
Photo: Ziad Joseph

EXPLORE  51 INS &

 North
Mt Saint Benedict
The Benedictine monks picked the perfect perch for
this 117 year old monastery. Epic views across Trinidad
from upon high in the Northern Range reinforce the
separation from the towns and cities below. Here, there
is only serenity. Landscaped grounds, statues, a gift
and tea shop selling jams and their famous Mount St
Benedict yoghurt (produced in the same compound),
add to the allure of this must-see historical site.
T: 662 2259 http://www.mountstbenedictabbey.org/

Queen’s Park Savannah

The ‘world’s largest roundabout’ is also the hub for
everything cultural, social and sporting in Trinidad. If it’s
happening in the Savannah, then it’s really happening!
Bordered by a mixture of historical buildings including
the Magnificent Seven, and modern architecture such
as the National Academy for Performance Arts, the 2.7
mile route is teeming with activity. There’s little wonder
that it’s the centre of Carnival celebrations.

Downtown
The streets of Port of Spain are steeped in T&T’s
colonial past, coupled with proof of the nation’s 21st
century trajectory. Parliament, Ministries, Churches,
Boulevards and the odd park adorn the area between
the welcoming sea port and the ever expanding FROM THE TOP
Easter Kite Flying in the Savannah
boundaries towards rural Trinidad. Bargains abound in Photo: Christopher Anderson
the nation’s capital.
Poui trees in full bloom
Photo: Aarti Gosein

INS & 52 EXPLORE

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

Museum Contact details

T: 623-1841 ext 255
Angostura opened its museum in 1999, to document
E: rbetancourt@angostura.com
and share the engaging history of the Siegert FACEBOOK:
family. Included as part of the Angostura factory AngosturaMuseum
tour, thousands of visitors each year come to the AndBarcantButterfly
museum to learn more about the almost 200 years Collection/
of history of this iconic company, which holds a Royal
Warrant from the Queen of England. A walk through
the museum reveals much of the Siegert family’s
stories, from our founder’s journey out of Germany
after the Napoleonic War, to the town of Angostura
in Venezuela, from there the family would move to
Trinidad in the 1870s. An informative and entertaining
experience for both locals and foreigners alike, the
Angostura museum is a ‘one-of-a-kind’ attraction.
 Central
Tamana Bat Caves
Reputed to be a coral reef that rose above ground
over time, this remarkable site is home to over 67
species of bats. It’s a short hike up to Mount Tamana
(308m above sea level) through bushes, going past
the caves to catch the views of central Trinidad.
As dusk approaches, the delight is watching huge
colonies of bats exit the caves en masse, changing
the colour of the sky.

Temple in the Sea

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

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

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

FROM TOP OPPOSITE PAGE

Flamingos in Caroni Swamp L’eau Michel Mud Volcano
Photo: Stephen Jay Photography Photo: Caribbean Discovery Tours

Hanuman Temple Kayaking

Photo: Shaun Rambaran Photo: Christopher Anderson

Donny’s Pottery

INS &
Pottery in Chaguanas
Photo: Shaun Rambaran
54 SECTION NAME HERE
Photo: Caribbean Discovery Tours

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

L’eau Michel Mud Volcano

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

Wild Fowl Trust

For over 50 years this conservation site has
welcomed students, teachers, enthusiasts, tourists
and nature lovers. It’s an oxymoron, a wetland haven
immersed in T&T’s oil heartland, Point-a-Pierre. Stroll
through the home of many endangered species of
birds, or take a boat out onto the two small ponds.
The landscaped beauty offers endless exploration
possibilities, while the Learning Centre, Museum and
Conference area provides educational and hosting
opportunities.

SECTION NAME HERE  55 INS &

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

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

Nariva Swamp
A nucleus of forest, mangrove, fauna and wildlife,
it’s little wonder that this area of Eastern Trinidad has
been declared a Wetland of International Importance.
Monkeys in the trees above, ‘caiman’ in the river below,
ocelots and anacondas roaming the forest; there is an
abundance of nature everywhere you turn. Access is
available by hiking on foot or taking a small boat.
For info on permission and guided tours call 662-5114.

FROM THE TOP

Melons on sale in Manzanilla
Photo: Christopher Anderson

Nariva Swamp
Photo: Stephen Jay Photography

INS & 56 EXPLORE

OUTS
Asa Wright Nature Centre
(868) 667-4655
reservations@asawright.org | www.asawright.org

Located in Arima, 1,200 feet above sea level, the Asa Wright Nature
Centre is a not-for-profit Trust. A plantation house in the midst of
a rainforest in excess of 1,300 acres. It has celebrated 52 years as a
self-sustained Eco-lodge and Nature Centre. Full of rich history, it
pursues its mission of conservation and protection of habitat and
watersheds in the Arima Valley. Its research station hosts graduate
studies and the Centre carries out community outreach via their
education programs. A birder’s paradise that is family oriented.
Reservations are required, so call for details of accommodation,
daily tours, lunches, conferences and small events.

EXPLORE  57 INS &

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

Chaguaramas Radar station

Known as the ‘Tracking Station’ this abandoned site
is testament to ages gone by: the Cold War era that
facilitated the need of the station and the American
occupation of the western peninsula. Getting there
is a joy, through howler monkey habitats in the trees
above, past old munitions buildings along a mixture
of paved and gravel inclines. The plateau final
destination is a great location to catch the sunset.
T: 225 4232

Covigne River Gorge

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

INS & 58 EXPLORE

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

You can experience over 2600 feet of zip

lining including an incredible 800-foot line
that will take you on a breath-taking ride
across Macqueripe Bay. Take a trail bike tour
to visit the amazing “Bamboo Cathedral” Zip-ITT Adventure Tours
or explore numerous off-road trails, all Macqueripe Bay, Chaguaramas
accompanied by expert local guides. Zip zipittadventuretours@gmail.com
www.zipitt.net @TrinidadZipitt
ITT also provides everything you might Call 1 (868) 303 7755 to book today
need to explore the waters of the bay, from
life vests to snorkels and fins. If you’ve never
been, there’s no better time to visit, and
if you have, it’s time to explore everything
new we have to offer. Happy adventuring!

Our Kids’ Play Park and Zip Line is perfect

for budding adventurers from the ages of 3
to 9, where fun and safety are our number
one priority.

Facilities are also available for corporate

retreats and team-building, multiple out-
door areas for activities and fully catered

INS &
lunches.
SECTION NAME HERE  59
Homecoming
NATIONAL ARCHITECTURAL GEMS BROUGHT BACK TO LIFE
By Paul Hadden
Keeping a nation’s history alive is no easy task. Thankfully, many of the most iconic
spots in our nation’s capital have either recently undergone repairs, or are on the
brink of having their renovations completed.
First on the agenda is a stroll through Woodfood
Square, which has stood in the nation’s capital since
1797. In the middle of the 20th century, the square
became a gathering point for the populace, and
it was here that Dr. Eric Williams, the nation’s first
prime minister, would deliver illuminating lectures on
leadership, constitutional reform, and the importance
of good governance. One of the key features of
this popular spot is a recently renovated fountain
depicting the Greek goddess Aphrodite and her son
Eros.
Right on the border of Woodford Square sits
the Red House, the seat of parliament of Trinidad
and Tobago, and a stunning example of colonial
architecture. The Red House is no stranger to repairs,
after having to be rebuilt after it was destroyed by
a fire in the 20th century, and is a living testament
to much political intrigue and turmoil. Current
restoration of the building is now entering into its
final stages and soon the magnificent structure will
once again be opened to the public.
As you head out from the heart of downtown and
move towards the stunning Queen’s Park Savannah,
you will be able to witness the Magnificent Seven,
a collection of unique and dramatic colonial style
buildings which line the western side of the park.
Among these, two have recently undergone extensive
renovations, restoring them to their former glory
and ensuing their lasting place in our nation’s built
heritage. The oldest of the bunch is Castle Killarney,
Castle Killarney
Photos: Richard Lyder

BOTTOM RIGHT
Woodford Square Fountain
Photo: Shaun Rambaran
 formerly known as Stollmeyer’s Castle, a
historic house said to be modeled after
a wing of Balmoral Castle in Aberdeen,
Scotland. The magnificent structure
was partly crafted from blue limestone
found in the hills of Laventille, Trinidad,
and many skilled local labourers, also
from Laventille, were employed in the
construction of the building. Although
closed for many years, this unique
building now often opens its doors
to the public for tours and viewings,
and is also host to numerous events,
film viewings, and art and cultural
exhibitions.
Right next to the castle, stands
Whitehall, built over a century ago by
Joseph Leon Agostini. The building,
which was inspired by architectural
styles popular on the island of Corsica,
has served many purposes throughout
its lifetime including office to the
nation’s first prime minister, as well as
a military base for the United States
Army during World War II. Originally
named Rosenweg meaning ‘the way
of the roses’ for the soft pink wash
used to colour the exterior, it was
eventually renamed Whitehall, owing
to the brilliant white imported Bajan
limestone from which its walls are
built. There are those who say that
the ghost of Leon Agostini still haunts
the building, mourning the loss of his
mansion, and that his spirit can be seen
at night, wandering around the large
wrap-around verandah encircling most
of Whitehall. As of August, 2019, after
a hiatus of ten years, the Office of the
Prime Minister was once again moved
to this spectacular building.
All that is needed to view these
important sites is a few hours of your
time, and a comfortable pair of walking
shoes. Feel free to end your tour with
a refreshing ice cold coconut, readily
available at the Savannah.

FROM THE TOP

Whitehall,
Office of the Prime Minister of the
Republic of Trinidad & Tobago

Red House
Photos: Richard Lyder

INS & 62 SECTION NAME HERE

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

1 STORE VALUABLES IN A DISHWASHER: Your 4 USE DISPOSABLE PLATES AND CUPS:

dishwasher is built to keep water in, so it will also Don’t waste an already limited water
keep water out. Items like photo albums or legal supply cleaning dishes! You want to be
documents, place in there to keep them dry. environmentally friendly, yes, but paper
2 THINK ‘PICNIC’, NOT ‘EMERGENCY’: When will decompose over time, and a few
shopping for food reserves, many people flock won’t hurt if it’s for your well-being.
to crackers and canned food. However, there 5 THINK BEYOND THE SUPERMARKET:
are many meals you can prepare and store If your supermarket is sold out of
without electricity. Many fruits and vegetables everything, remember that home-
don’t require refrigeration, other items include improvement, office supply, and
mayonnaise and mustard. electronics stores sell items like water,
3 FREEZE WATER IN GALLON BAGS: If the batteries, flashlights, and other things
grocery is out of water and you don’t have a you may need.
proper storage container, fill gallon-sized plastic 6 TURN YOUR WASHING MACHINE
bags with water and freeze them. If the power INTO A COOLER: Fill it with ice and
goes out, your freezer will stay cold longer and put your perishables there in a power
you’ll have some drinking water stored. outage.

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

IT’S WHAT’S INSIDE

THAT COUNTS

And what’s inside is covered by

BEACON CONTENTS INSURANCE

• Choose the package that’s right for you!
• Cover your Furniture, Electronics, Appliances and more!
• Get up to $800,000 in cover for less than $3,400/year!
• Sign up in minutes!
*special conditions apply

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

SECTION NAME HERE  63 INS &

 Marianne Beach Maracas Bay Las Cuevas

Photo: Damian Luk Pat Photo: Christopher Anderson Photo: Ziad Joseph

INS & 64 SECTION NAME HERE

OUTS
Beach
LIFE

Las Cuevas Bay

Photo: Ziad Joseph

Paria Beach Yarra North Coast Matura Bay

Photo: Nicholas Bhajan Photo: Devan Mulchansingh Photo: Ziad Joseph

SECTION NAME HERE  65 INS &

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

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

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

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

INSET
Paria Arch
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

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

Yarra
Located after La Fillette, this secluded hide-away offers
aquamarine waters in a bay protected by monumental
rocks, the remnants of a promontory. The bay opens
out to white sands, closer to the Yarra River.
TT RideShare
support@ttrideshare.com | www.ttrideshare.com
Every day our drivers’ commitment to our clients’ safety and
positive ride experience is a testimony to our philosophy of
partnership. Consequently, TT Rideshare has become the first
choice of riders in households and businesses across Trinidad &
Tobago, whose expectations for safety, quality service, competitive
pricing and a great ride experience are met.
We value our clients as our partners and best
brand ambassadors. Together with our drivers
YOU make our dream of delivering a
high-quality transport solution service a reality.
Get 10% off your first ride with the promo code: TT10
T&T Tourist Transport Service
(868) 623-4419
After 3:00 pm (868) 683-7934; Fax (868) 624-5016
touristtransport1@flowtrinidad.com | www.ttttsa.com
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.
ZM Executive Transport
(868) 728-8146/359-2649
zmexecutivetransport@gmail.com
www.zmexecutivetransport.com
We offer a professional taxi service for your every demand, 24/7.
Our staff is thoroughly screened, whereby we require a certificate
of character and defensive driving certificate. All chauffeurs are
professionally attired. Our services include:
• Airport pick-up and drop-off • Tours
• Business meeting and corporate transfers • Free Wi-Fi
• Easy payment options: Cash (US or TT),
Credit/Debit card (VISA, MASTERCARD, LINX)
• Car seat available on request
Econo Car Rentals Ltd
(868) 226-4CAR; 226-RENT
rentals@econocartt.com | econocar.rentals
Affordable Car Rental with Econo Car!
At Econo we offer the best value car rental for your pocket. Whether
for a holiday, business trip, or when your car is in for repairs, our
car hire service will have you behind the wheel in a car to suit your
needs at the lowest cost on the market. All our rentals include:
• 24/7 roadside assistance • Unlimited mileage
• Insurance • A full tank of gas upon collection
We have a wide selection of vehicles
at our offices in Piarco, POS, Tobago
and Chaguaramas for your convenience.
EXPLORE  67 INS &
waterfalls
IN TRINIDAD
By Sheldon Waithe

Trinidad’s northern range has the majority

of the falls, with Paria and Rincon being the
Fun Fact
most popular. To discover these cascades A 250-ft cascade,
requires considerable hiking, with the former Rincon is the
taking you along the Caribbean Sea coastline
largest waterfall
and the latter nestled deep in the forests near
Las Cuevas. Rincon is a massive 250ft fall, the in the country.
largest in the country.
Adding to the monopoly, the Brasso Seco
area near Arima, has eleven falls, the best of
which is aptly named the Jewel of Brasso.
From 70 feet above, water drops into the small freshwater pool, giving bathers
the choice of a relaxing dip after the short hike past some of the smaller waterfalls
in the area, or taking a natural massage against its gigantic rock face.
Reaching both Angel and Matura Falls is more difficult, requiring rope for
tricky descents to Angel and time (three hours worth) for Matura. As ever, the
journey is worth it, with a veritable oasis below El Tucuche mountain creating
an unforgettable visit to Angel. The surroundings at Matura are even more
picturesque: a natural infinity pool that cascades over limestone rocks creating a
colourful spectacle aided by sunlight.
Less arduous, Edith Falls is a calm, flat 30 minute walk through Chaguaramas;
its 250 metre waterfall is also enhanced by fellow visitors - parrots and howler
monkeys - seeking the same amazing refreshment courtesy of Mother Nature.

ON LEFT
Avocat Waterfall,
Blanchisseuse
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

RIGHT
Capuchin Monkeys
Photo: Stephen Broadbridge
business
Photo: Ronald Daniel
 A melting pot of
CULTURE
Trinidad and Tobago is a melting
pot of culture, because of its diverse
ethnic and historical background.
Our cultural traditions are rooted in
struggle, perseverance and passion,
heavily influenced by our African
and East Indian ancestry.
Playing ‘mas’ is a celebrated and cherished
tradition, particularly at the junior level where the
fun is at its most unadulterated and the benefit at its
most pure. The Republic Bank Junior Parade of the
Bands allows children to actively participate in this
tradition. Similarly, they are afforded the opportunity
to learn traditional mas-making artistry from veterans
in the business through the Republic Bank/National
Carnival Bands Association (NCBA) Mas Academy
Outreach Programme. It is hoped that through these
initiatives, a love for culture will be ingrained in the
nation’s youth that will carry through to adulthood.
A core facet of Carnival is the steelpan. The
steelpan was created in Trinidad and Tobago in the
1930’s and is the only musical instrument invented in
the 20th century. The steelpan is now synonymous
INS & 72 SECTION NAME HERE
OUTS
with the entire Caribbean. The Republic Bank
Exodus Steel Orchestra has won the Trinidad and
Tobago National Panorama competition four times
and has taken steelpan to the world, performing
on stages as far away as Japan. The Band has also
been the recipient of various awards and accolades.
On the junior level, the Republic Bank Pan Minors
Music Literacy Programme engages primary and
secondary school students in 30 hours of formal
music training over a 3-week period each year. The
programme, in collaboration with the Department of
Creative and Festival Arts at the University of the
West Indies, teaches students to read, score and
eventually compose steelpan music of their own.
Republic Bank’s commitment to culture, and its
development, stems from our overarching vision of
preserving traditions for future generations so that
they can continue to confidently champion cultural
excellence.
Collectively the support of these activities, under
the Power to Make a Difference programme, has
a time-tested ability to build bridges across the
boundaries of space and culture. We continue to
work alongside our partners to preserve, protect and
promote the cultural traditions that form the fabric
of who we are as a people in the interest of building
strong, sustainable societies.
SECTION NAME HERE  73 INS &
 Tel: (868) 680-6732
Email: contact@homeworktt.com
Website: homeworktt.com
FB: @ homeworkdesignstudio
Ins: @homework_design_studio

Photo: Kerron Riley Photos: Brian Lewis

Chaos Randall Waddell has crossed the country and parts of the
Caribbean creating innovative interiors and reinventing spaces
for residential and commercial use for the past decade as the

is my
Principal Designer for HomeWork Design Studio. A Member of
The American Society of Interior Designers and an approved
Interior Designer of the HGTV Professional Designer Network,
his love for this craft is an innate one; a passion born in his youth

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

INS & 74 BUSINESS

OUTS
Preferred Suppliers
of Homework
Design Studio

LUXURY FINISHES DESIGN CENTRE

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

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

PARTS WORLD LIMITED

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

SHADES DESIGNS LTD

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

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

and investment that people make in their homes is something

special with which to work,” he adds. A graduate of The Art
Institute of Fort Lauderdale, his creative process has remained
relatively unchanged over the years – he allows the location,
space or home (in the case of a renovation) to tell its own story.
“It’s almost as if a movie starts to play in my mind when I’m in
a space – I let the house, in a sense, speak to me. I consider the
function of the space, and I get to work with my pad and start
sketching.”
HomeWork Design Studio partners with a careful selection of
contractors, suppliers, labourers and artisans. “Every project is
driven by teamwork. I visit suppliers around the country almost
weekly as each project has different requests and demands. I
depend on my contractors and my suppliers to work cohesively
to create a successful project. After all, creating an idea is
one thing, but how you put it all together is another story! My
contractors and suppliers are the most important pieces to the
puzzle – absolute musts.”
As at least a dozen workers proceed rapidly to complete a
range of tasks with this latest renovation, Randall seems to thrive
in the midst of it all. What seems like chaos is where Randall
thrives. “Chaos is my friend – without chaos, we would be bored.
There is good and bad chaos, of course, but in any aspect of
life where there is disorder – it means that things are changing.
Chaos can be a good thing – it brings transformation,” he points
out.
For anyone considering creating a new space or a new home,
he actively encourages them to note what they like in the homes
they’ve seen or visited and identify what works best. “Trends will
date. Instead think of how you would like to use your home –
after all, function follows form in design. Find ways to mix the
traditional aspects with the contemporary – so what you invest
in is also timeless and is an investment in your happiness too.”

INS & 76 BUSINESS

OUTS
 Gold Medal
for the “Rhythms of Our People”
After a five-year hiatus at the 2019 Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Flower
Show, emerging triumphant and bringing home a gold medal.
The team, comprising Bernard Beckles, Nigel
Cornwall, Joan Hampton, Jemma Lewis, Tony Tankai,
and Shane Valentine, overcame a series of hurdles to
win at this acclaimed competition.
Bernard Beckles, veteran florist and owner of St
James flower shop, La Tropicale related the bizarre
string of events that led to the award.
The trouble began when the team learned that the
bamboo stalks necessary for the display were three
feet too long for the aircraft. With limited funding
and without some of the material needed to bring
his original concept to life, Beckles, whose team also
took home the gold medal in 2013, tapped into some
spur-of-the-moment creativity. “I had to walk about
the compound and pick up discarded things,” he
admitted.
Inspired by Rudder’s ‘Calypso Music’, the display,
By Tevin R. Gall
entitled, ‘Rhythms of Our People,’ reflects the
nation’s ethnic and cultural influences, playing on
the dual theme of the sacred and the profane. The
former, represented by the altar base, the latter by
the Carnival and the African drums, the tabla and the
steelpan. The driftwood represents Tobago, while the
influences of the Spanish and French are also present.
Beckles cited Trinidad and Tobago’s decision to host
CARIFESTA XIV as yet another inspiration.
Beckles relayed the joy of seeing expat
Trinbagonians’ pride at the team’s participation and
subsequent win. “Some of these people haven’t been
home in [decades],” he explained.
“Representatives [from other countries] were
curious as to how to get [certain plants],” Beckles
related. “That made me respect my country more.
We don’t appreciate what we have in front of us.”
EXPLORE  77 INS &
 FIRST CITIZENS TAKES
AIM AT GENDER BASED ISSUES
By Kieran Andrew Khan

With an established women’s conference and a

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

According to a representative of the Group, “When

With gender-based violence a continued cause
for concern nationally, First Citizens Bank aimed to
take the conversation nationwide, eventually hosting
Girls’ First Festivals across the country between 2017
and 2018. These events included fun and engaging
plenary sessions, workshops and presentations
including self-defence, health and wellness, peer
pressure, fashion and image, sex education and of
course financial literacy, among others. Well-known
local female personalities also shared their stories
with the young audience in a bid to guide
and motivate the all-female attendees. With
significant feedback over the two-year period,
the Group then set about to create Girls
First Ambassadors to spread
the vision and ethos of the
movement, year-round.
you add up all the ambassadors, you would have a pool
of young women that can share this knowledge with
their friends and family members. There is nothing like
this happening consistently and given that one of the
pillars at First Citizens is the advancement of women
– what better way to complement our Women First
initiative? With any major initiative that we embark
on or engage in, the question for us is ‘Did we move
the needle?’ or ‘Did we make an impact?’ and that’s
what we aim to do with Girls First and Women First.”
The latter programme’s current theme is Changing
the Narrative and coincides with the relaunch of their
Purple Card. That card allows holders to make small
but meaningful monthly payments from TT$25 to
$100 to contribute to help reduce and end domestic
violence against women and children. The card is the
only one of its kind locally, and all funds go toward
NGOs that champion ending violence against women.

INS & 78 BUSINESS

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

Young Chefs and Bartenders

Triumph in Miami
By Tevin R. Gall

Our vibrancy and creativity Held at the Hyatt Regency in Miami, Florida, the competition called
for recipes of the region’s rich culinary culture. The T&T team did not
continues to make waves disappoint, presenting exciting renderings of local dishes, much to the
internationally, this time, delight of the judges.
Among the participants of the individual categories, Jodi Eversley copped
through our eclectic local
the gold medal in the Junior Chef competition, while Isaiah Trumpet took
cuisine. The 2019 National home a gold medal in the Non-Alcoholic Cocktail competition, as well as a
Culinary Team, led by silver medal as Best Overall Bartender, after noteworthy performances in
the Vodka Cocktail, Rum Cocktail and Mystery Bar competitions. Keenan
Jeremy Lovell triumphed Lezama won the bronze medal for his offering in the Dessert competition.
at the Caribbean Hotel The 2019 team joins a long list of national contenders in the competition,
but what is particularly remarkable about the winners is that they were
and Tourism Association’s
all students at the time of participation. The positive responses garnered
‘Taste of the Caribbean’ by the judges stand not only as a testament to the wide appeal of our
Competition in June 2019, national delicacies, but as a salute to the training undertaken at the
Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (TTHTI).
took home the silver The Trinidad Hotels, Restaurant and Tourism Association (THRTA) has
medal in the Team of the been active in ensuring that teams from Trinidad and Tobago take part
in the annual competition, and that their efforts create the opportunities
Year category, among for exposure for young homegrown culinary and bartending talent, which
other prizes. can be seen in the hundreds of medals won at the competition since 1997.

INS & 80 SPECIAL EVENTS

OUTS
Special
events By Roslyn Carrington

While many venues welcome large groups for

major celebrations such as weddings and reunions,
there are ample opportunities for smaller, more
intimate gatherings. An evening out with the girls,
an office team-building session, or a tea party with
a Caribbean twist, the good news is that there are
many venues that offer event planning and will take
the burden off your shoulders.
One special sanctuary that comes to mind is
Glamorgan, a charming colonial building in St.
Augustine, set in the shade of a sprawling 100-year-
old Samaan tree. It’s the perfect spot for a small
wedding or afternoon tea. You can even join them for
yoga in the lush garden.
Event catering and coordination? No problem. GCG
Events, experienced event planners and caterers, will
swoop in and arrange everything. For something
different, El Pecos will bring your every culinary
desires to your doorstep.
So gather your friends and loved ones, call in your
crew, and host your next event!

SPECIAL EVENTS  81 INS &

stay
in style

Photo: Patricia Lewis

 Hyatt Regency Trinidad
(868) 623-2222 (868) 821-6401 (Fax)
1 Wrightson Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
trirt.reservation@hyatt.com (Reservations)
trinidad.regency.hyatt.com

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

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

Acajou is a small, eco-friendly, family-operated hotel situated on the beautiful

and dramatic northern coast of Trinidad in a small fishing village called Grande
Rivière. The hotel is built as a group of traditional cottages nestled between the
beach, a crystal clear river and lush rainforest-covered mountains.
What makes Grande Rivière unique is the hundreds of endangered leatherback
turtles that nest here every year, from March until August.
Please visit www.tripadvisor.com for unbiased reviews about Acajou Hotel.

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

Situated in the breezy residential area of St. Joseph Village, San Fernando,
Tradewinds Hotel has been owned and operated by the Laing family since 1990.
The 41–room “Home Away From Home” boasts friendly, helpful and courteous
staff and an efficient management team. Rooms are spacious and fully equipped
with minibar, cable TV, air-conditioning, safes and complimentary Wi-Fi. Other
facilities include the newly opened Offside Restaurant & Sports Bar and Bottles
& Bites Sushi & Tapas Restaurant, conferencing, mini-mart, gym with state-of-
the-art equipment and instructors on site and swimming pool. Only 800 metres
away from Caribbean Cinemas 10/South Park Shopping Plaza.

INS & 84 STAY IN STYLE

OUTS
SECTION NAME HERE  85 INS &
 Royal Hotel
Tel (868) 652-4881
46–54 Royal Road, San Fernando, Trinidad
www.royalhoteltt.com

Royal Hotel has the charm of a bygone era, with the conveniences of the modern
world. We are known for our warm southern charm, an oasis conveniently locat-
ed within the city of San Fernando.
We invite you to relax in any of our 62 spacious rooms, equipped with cable TV,
air-conditioning, safes and free Wi-Fi, along with a complimentary continental
breakfast. Visit our Landmark Bar or Pavilion Restaurant for a taste of an eclectic
mix of local and international cuisine. Our conference and meeting rooms are
ideal for hosting business events, cocktail parties and wedding receptions.
Hoping to see you soon!

Hilton Trinidad &

Conference Centre
(868) 624 3211; (868) 624 4485 (Fax)
1B Lady Young Road, Belmont, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
reservations.trinidad@hilton.com
www.trinidad.hilton.com

Located on a hilltop overlooking the iconic Queen’s Park Savannah, our hotel
offers the ideal location for rest and relaxation. A truly unique Caribbean
experience. Choose from any of our 405 rooms, all with private balconies
featuring breathtaking views of the city and the Northern Range mountains.
Enjoy our fully renovated pool outfitted with private cabanas, fully equipped
fitness center with spa and sauna facilities, or try one of our outdoor tennis
courts. Indulge in an eclectic international and local menu at any of our
restaurants and bars, whether you’re in the mood for an on-the-go snack, or
something to keep your diet on track. Make your meetings memorable with one
of our flexible meeting spaces with a maximum capacity of 1,000 persons.

Cara Suites Hotel &

Conference Centre
(868) 659-2271; (868) 659-2202 (Fax)
Pointe-a-Pierre, Southern Main Road, Claxton Bay, Trinidad
carasuitespap@carahotels.com
www.carahotels.com

Situated just a mere 20 minutes away from the city of San Fernando and Cha-
guanas and 15 minutes away from Point Lisas and Couva, we position you closest
to some of the newest entertainment and sporting facilities such as South Park
and Cinemas 8, C3 and MovieTowne, the Aquatic Centre and the Brian Lara
Cricket Academy.
Meticulously appointed hotel rooms with modern amenities, spacious conference
and banqueting rooms ideal for almost any occasion, a fine dining restaurant,
sunken lobby bar, outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre are available to
you during your stay, whether you are travelling for business or leisure.
Allow yourself to experience…a Caribbean tradition in the making!

INS & 86 STAY IN STYLE

OUTS
STAY IN STYLE  87 INS &
 Courtyard By Marriott
(868) 627-5555; (868) 627-6317 (Fax)
Invader’s Bay, Audrey Jeffers Highway
Port of Spain, Trinidad
www.courtyardportofspain.com

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

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

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

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

Crews Inn Hotel and Yachting Centre

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

Snuggly nestled in a natural harbour, the CrewsInn Hotel and Yachting Centre is
a welcoming haven for all our valued guests.
Enjoy all the amenities of our unique hotel amidst the warm and vibrant Caribbe-
an décor that says, “Relax, make yourself at home”.
Forty-six, rooms all with a cosy private balcony view of our Marina; pool, confer-
ence centre, restaurant, bar, all carrying modern design and décor.
Located in Trinidad’s largest national park.

INS & 88 STAY IN STYLE

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

The Normandie Hotel is a boutique hotel designed by one of Trinidad’s most

acclaimed architects, John Newel Lewis, and is known as a platform for culture,
art and music. The spirit of its local warmth is nothing but charming.
Within its façade it houses a conference centre, restaurant, 83 rooms (40 of them
poolside) carrying modern commodities, and a market place offering fashion,
skin care, and bespoke local products.
Strategically situated in the heart of St. Ann’s, minutes away from the Queen’s
Park Savannah and Port of Spain. Capture charisma, revisit the values of history.
Stay at The Normandie Hotel!

STAY IN STYLE  89 INS &

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

Sundeck Suites: (868) 622-9560/9561 Fax (868) 628-4707

# 42–44 Picton Street, Newtown, Port of Spain, Trinidad
reservations@sundecktrinidad.com

At Par-May-La’s Inn and Sundeck Suites, each room has air-conditioning, private
toilet and bath, hot and cold water, telephone and cable TV. Sundeck Suites also
has kitchenette facilities and Par-May-La’s Inn offers a complimentary continen-
tal breakfast daily.
Both properties offer free Wi-Fi and are conveniently located, walking distance
away from supermarkets, hair salons, banks, US, Canadian, and other embassies,
the Queen’s Park Savannah and Oval, restaurants, medical facilities, mas camps
and nightlife entertainment.

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

Located 88 km from Piarco International Airport, Le Grand Almandier lies nestled

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

The Cannons Hotels

(868) 682-8126
1A Meerut Street, St. James, Trinidad, West Indies
thecannonshotels@gmail.com | www.thecannonshotels.com

WHY CHOOSE US? Location, Location, Location!

Your home away from home, The Cannons Hotels present an alternative take
on accommodations by providing concierge services to you, our guest, with our
personally tailored tours delivering safety, fun and the best value for your dollar!
Join us to explore the vibrant culture, cuisine, heritage and adventure of our
twin-island republic.
Whether it’s for business or a fun getaway, our hotel is strategically located in
St. James next to Long Circular Mall and in close proximity to the major city and
shopping districts, supermarkets, banks, restaurants, the local entertainment
scene and other conveniences! It gets better ... for an extended medical stay, our
property is ideally outfitted to accommodate guests before, during and after
health-related procedures. Come and experience for yourself the home-grown
hospitality of our team. The Cannons Hotels ... Your Home, Away From Home!

INS & 90 STAY IN STYLE

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

Chaquacabana Resort and Beach Club is one of a kind in Trinidad. It is located

in Chaguaramas, at the most westerly point of the island. The Resort spans 12.5
acres with a sloping hillside that envelops it to the north and absolute ocean to
the south. It prides itself on Sea, Sun, Serenity & Stay. A few of the main attrac-
tions at the all-suite hotel are the ocean restaurants, biking, kayaking, and bird
watching, and even great fishing is available on the expansive 1800 ft. boardwalk.
“It’ll be a great fun experience!”

Inna Citi Place Bed & Breakfast

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

At Inna Citi Place Bed & Breakfast, we offer a warm and friendly experience in a
secure and comfortable environment. Rooms are equipped with air-conditioning,
flat screen cable TVs, wireless Internet, ceiling fans, small refrigerators and en-
suite bathroom. Comfort, service and great value characterize our offerings.
We are located just minutes away from some of the best-known entertainment
centres of Port of Spain, One Woodbrook Place, St James, Ariapita Avenue and
MovieTowne. We are a mere six minutes’ drive from the historic Queen’s Park
Savannah and within walking distance of the Queen’s Park Oval, banks, shopping
malls, supermarkets, restaurants, churches and panyards (Phase Two, Starlift,
Invaders).

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

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

STAY IN STYLE  91 INS &

Bentley-Potter School of Dance
Photo: Edison Boodoosingh
entertainment
 Pas De Deux
THE BENTLEY-POTTER SCHOOL OF DANCE
By Paul Hadden
meet a Trini
The Bentley Potter School of Dance receiving a special award from the Mayor of Port-of-Spain for their
contribution to the arts in Trinidad and Tobago. L-R: Director, Evelyn Bentley; Mayor Joel Martinez; and
Director, Averil Potter.
For exactly half a century the Bentley-Potter
School of Dance, founded by Averil Potter and
Evelyn Bentley, has been helping to enrich the
lives of thousands of girls (and eventually, they
hope, boys) by introducing them to the world of
classical dance.
The school, as well as its offshoot the
Cascade Festival Ballet Company, has been
instrumental in developing the arts, offering
classes in both modern dance and jazz.
However, both of the founders emphasise that
the main purpose of the school is not so much
to train young girls for careers as professional
ballerinas, though it has produced world class
performers, as to instill in the students a love
for the art form. Ballet, they explain, is not just
something that the students practise for the
hour and a half that they are in the studio, it is
a way of life. They also proudly emphasise that
classical ballet instills many positive qualities
in the dancers - discipline, elegance, and time-
management.
“Ballet has it all,” says Evelyn Bentley, “dance,
music, costume design…and this is why we
believe that so many parents continue to send
their children to learn classical dance.”
INS & 94 ENTERTAINMENT
OUTS
The school, while remaining faithful to
the rigours of the Royal Academy of Dance
syllabus, also draws inspiration from the
various art forms on the island. “While we
remain primarily a school for teaching classical
ballet,” explains Mrs. Potter, “we have a deep
admiration for the local arts in Trinidad and
love to interact with them as well. We also
remain very involved with the many other
schools here including the Caribbean School
of Dancing.” Dance, they stress, is about
community, and they both agree that many
of their students consider the ballet studio to
be their “second home,” one which many of
their dancers will treasure for life. Both Mrs.
Potter and Mrs. Bentley attest to the fact that
throughout the changing seasons of their
own lives, the one thing that has remained
a constant source of joy and inspiration, is
ballet. In a world where everything is in a
constant state of flux, they offer many young
people a priceless gift which brings a sense of
community, consistency, and transcendence
to their lives – the gift of dance.
www.bentleypotter.com
 Calling All Choirs
THE MARIONETTES CHORALE
JOINS PRODUCTION AT CARNEGIE HALL
By Tevin R. Gall
For decades, national choirs have performed to
foreign audiences to great acclaim, so it was no
surprise when the Marionettes Chorale received an
invitation to join a mass choir for a performance
of Christopher Tin’s Grammy Award-winning
composition, Calling All Dawns. The show’s
producers had come across the choir’s rendition
of one of the composer’s pieces on YouTube and
booked them for the concert on June 9, 2019 in
Carnegie Hall.
Over the years, the choir has caught the
attention of many renowned composers, including
John Rutter and Andrew Carter, and has played
to audiences across the Caribbean and Central
America, the United States and the United
Kingdom since its inception in 1963.
Assistant Artistic Director, Caroline Taylor spoke
about the experience and what the invitation
meant to the group. “It wasn’t something that we
were expecting at all, it was a nice validation that
we performed well and that all our hard work had
paid off.”
The performance, held at the historic Hall,
allowed the choir to collaborate with some of the
world’s top choristers and musicians.
Photo: Marlon Rouse
Taylor explained that while the group is a community
choir, the members, under the baton of Musical and Artistic
Director Gretta Taylor, strive for a professional brand of
perfection.
“To their credit, the members took it very seriously, and
we were, in some ways, one of the best-prepared groups,”
she revealed. “People can see locally that we’re...[aiming]
to set a standard, and it manifests in the product if people
get it right.”
With the desire to maintain the high quality of their
artistry, the choir made sure to benefit from working up
close and personal with the two-time Grammy winner. Tin
shared stories of his inspiration for the piece, an invaluable
experience for the group’s future plans.
The Carnegie Hall trip marks the choir’s first overseas
performance in over a decade, which perhaps augurs well
for future appearances abroad. Taylor explained that not
only is touring a costly endeavour, but syncing members’
schedules--especially the younger ones--often proves to
be a challenge.
Still, the work continues: Taylor let on that the producers
of the concert are mounting a production in Lincoln Centre
next year.
www.marionetteschorale.com
SECTION NAME HERE  95 INS &
jazz
in Trinidad & Tobago
By Tevin R. Gall
 In a country where musical traditions are rooted
in soulful rhythms and improvised melodies, jazz
influences continue to capture the imagination of
composers, artists and concert producers in Trinidad
and Tobago. Chantal Esdelle, seasoned pannist,
keyboardist, ethnomusicologist and founder of the
Ethnic Jazz Club on Cornelio Street in Woodbrook

JAZZ
shared her thoughts on the recent rise in these events.
“‘Jazz’ is really an imperial Western way of labelling
African [musical] expression in the Americas. It’s an
umbrella term.” She continues, “It’s always easiest to

2020
[use that label]. We have to use another name to call
the things that happen outside of calypso and soca.”
Fair enough, as most of the artists featured at the
annual Tobago Jazz Festival--names like Toni Braxton,
Lauryn Hill and Chaka Khan--are more Top 40 than
MARCH
‘pure’ jazz. But while this may be true, their music does
lend to a certain openness of expression: the artist 28h
and band are often led by the mood of the audience, Jazz Artists on the Greens
while the music is peppered with improvisational riffs, - The Greens at Farm Road,
using rich, layered harmonies. And that’s where the St Joseph, Trinidad
‘jazz’ element comes in. Esdelle explains that what’s
important is that the patrons can relate to the music. APRIL
“That’s the connecting thread, the thing that makes it
enjoyable.” 4th | 11th | 18th | 25th
Women in Jazz - Fiesta Plaza
But for a diverse people such as ourselves, can there
MovieTowne, Trinidad
be such a thing as ‘pure’ jazz? Esdelle explains that the
jazz from each culture is different, as it takes on the 23rd – 26th
influences of that culture. “Kaiso and soca inspire the The Tobago Jazz Experience
jazz that we do.” - Speyside, Signal Hill,
All the same, Esdelle explains that those who label Scarborough, Castara and
themselves as jazz performers “try to be specific in the Pigeon Point Heritage
what we’re doing.” She clarified, “It’s necessary to give Park, Tobago
another context.” These are the artists, like herself,
TBA - Jazz on the Beach
who play to smaller crowds that actively seek out jazz
- Mt Irvine Bay, Tobago
performers. “The audiophiles...and [people who] don’t
necessarily have to sing along.” TBA - VSpot Semi-Inclusive
A chat with jazz vocalist Vaughnette Bigford gave Jazz Experience - Clifton Hill
more insight into the local jazz scene: “Jazz on the Manor, Point Fortin, Trinidad
Greens is the staple event for the year.” North Coast
Jazz, held in Blanchisseuse is “one of the newer [events] MAY
but is special [in how it] celebrates local artists and
musicians.” 2nd
Bigford also produces her own annual event, Jazz Under the Stars
the VSpot Semi-Inclusive Jazz experience, held at - Green Meadows,
Santa Cruz, Trinidad
Clifton Hill Manor during Point Fortin Borough Day’s
celebrations.
23rd
Undoubtedly, the richness of our musical influences North Coast Jazz Festival
is expertly showcased through our take on the jazz 2020 - Festival Grounds,
artform, with a world-class lineup of jazz and jazz- Sir Solomon Hochoy Park,
flavoured events. Blanchisseuse, Trinidad

Vaughnette Bigford
Photo: Maria Nunes
 A decade of the
NGC BocasLit Fest
By Anna Lucie Smith

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

Photos: Maria Nunes

Held every year in the heart of Port of Spain in the
iconic National Library and Old Fire Station, the NGC
Bocas Lit Fest, with its parallel children’s festival,
marks a decade in 2020. Named one of the 20 best
literary festivals in the world by Penguin Random
House in 2016, the festival has earned an international
reputation in record time. Some of the greatest living
writers have graced this intimate festival stage, such
as St. Lucian Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott, British
sensations Irvine Welsh and Marina Warner, and
Caribbean legends like Earl Lovelace, Olive Senior,
Lorna Goodison, and Vahni Capildeo.
The NGC Bocas Lit Fest is known for spotting the
next big talent in Caribbean writing, and has been the
launching ground of many literary careers. In 2011,
Marlon James gave the Bocas audience a preview
from his then work-in-progress, a manuscript that
would famously become the 2015 Man Booker Prize-
winning novel A Brief History of Seven Killings.
Other rising stars have moved from the Bocas New
Talent showcase to publish debut work and grab
prestigious international awards — among them,
local poets Danielle Boodoo-Fortuné, winner of the
2019 OCM Bocas Prize for poetry, and Shivanee
Ramlochan, shortlisted for the 2018 Forward Prize.
In this small but vibrant country, there is a bubbling
up of artistic talent and opportunity, and a quick look
at the range of NGC Bocas Lit Fest activities shows
how much there is on offer — writing workshops
for all levels, new books launched by local writers
every year, the epic First Citizens National Poetry
Slams, run by Bocas partners the 2 Cents Movement,
plus platforms for social change in high-level panel
discussions, Extempo debates, and the witty
performance commentary of the festival’s annual Ole
Mas Competition.
For book-lovers and writers outside Port of Spain,
Bocas hosted spin-off festivals in San Fernando,
Chaguanas and Tobago, and helped revive U.WE
Speak, the open mic series at the University of the West
Indies campus, making a space for students to explore
social issues through the arts. Plus every April the NGC
Children’s Bocas Lit Fest storytelling caravan brings
stories to life every weekend, all over T&T.
And most amazingly, nearly all these public events
are free and open.
1 – 3 May, 2020
@bocaslitfest
www.bocaslitfest.com

INS & 98 ENTERTAINMENT

OUTS
 film festivals
Indie and fringe
films are throwing
out a challenge to the
mainstream industry,
especially now that
emerging players in
the Caribbean, Latin
America and Africa
have stepped onto the
field. Trinidadians love
movies and celebrate
this newfound diversity
by hosting several niche
film festivals every year.
One of the major
influencers is FilmTT,
a subsidiary of the
government entity
CreativeTT, which is
devoted to supporting
the interests of the
country’s creative
industries. FilmTT’s
sister companies are
MusicTT and FashionTT.
FilmTT provides
services to local and
incoming productions,
offering logistical and
creative support as
well as training and
financing to maximise
the country’s economic
and creative talent.
If you love films,
here’s your chance to
experience something
other than mainstream
fare.
INS & 100 ENTERTAINMENT
OUTS
SO MUCH MORE THAN MAINSTREAM
By Roslyn Carrington
The trinidad+tobago film
festival – SEPTEMBER
One of FilmTT’s most popular
undertakings is the trinidad+tobago film
festival, an annual event that provides
a forum for local and regional film-
makers, writers, actors, producers and
directors. Usually held in the summer
European Film
months, this week-long festival screens
around 90 films at several locations, Festival – MAY
along with cultural displays, meet-and- Engrossing, unusual
greets and networking events. and eclectic. Two
ttfilmfestival.com weeks of delightful
Facebook: @ttfilmfestival films from countries throughout
Europe—subtitled, of course.
Korea Film Viewings are concentrated around
MovieTowne Port of Spain, but a few
Week – APRIL
are available at other MovieTowne
Korea Film Week
locations.
is held courtesy
Movietowne.com
the Embassy of the
Facebook: @tnteff
Republic of Korea.
The embassy sees
it as a fantastic African Film
medium for Trinidad and
cultural exchange, Tobago – MAY
and a way to open the eyes of film The explosion of fresh and
lovers to a world they may not have fascinating films coming out of
seen before. The beauty and artistry of the African continent is a nomadic
Korean films can be enjoyed for free at festival, so you can catch screenings
MovieTowne Port of Spain. at places like the Little Carib Theatre
overseas.mofa.go.kr/tt-en/index.do or Central Bank in Port of Spain, or
Facebook @KoreanEmbassyTT go further afield and view them at
the University of the West Indies, St.
Augustine, or outdoor locations like
the Brian Lara Promenade.
africafilmtt.com
Facebook @africafilmtt
 Green Screen: The
Environmental Film Festival
– OCTOBER / NOVEMBER
The Green Screen festival is a forum
for short films with an environmentally
conscious slant. It’s hosted by SustainTT in the hopes
of raising awareness and prompting action on climate
change and environmental degradation in the region. It
includes feature films, shorts, and a mobile short-shorts
film competition. Films can be viewed at small, intimate
venues like the Grundlos Kollektiv in Port of Spain.
greenscreentt.com
Facebook: @greenscreentt
Animae Caribe
- AUGUST
More than a film
festival, it’s a gathering
of anime lovers who view films, play games, discuss
industry happenings and show off their creativity
through cosplay. The event encourages creatives
and entrepreneurs and welcomes big names in the
industry for forums and autograph signings.
animaecaribe.com
Facebook: @animae.caribe.animation.festival

Fiesta Plaza, MovieTowne

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

When the sun sets, the Caribbean nightlife heats up at Fiesta Plaza, MovieTowne.
Brimming with activity and excitement, the ambience is clearly reminiscent
of Bourbon Street in New Orleans; filled with the eclectic blend of cuisine and
entertainment that makes this venue one of the most talked-about spots in T&T.
A diverse mix of dining choices await to satisfy any palate, and for anyone feel-
ing lucky, why not try your hand at the casino?
Guests can also sway to the beats and pulsating rhythms of local talent with live
shows taking place twice per week; every Wednesday and Saturday from 8:30
pm – 9:30 pm.
You can always find a great lime and a lively crowd at the No.1 entertainment
destination in Trinidad and Tobago.

VIP Platinum Cinema

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

The VIP Platinum Cinema and Lounge is an ultra-modern, state-of-the-art venue

that takes cinema-going to the next level. Indulge in the full VIP experience by
dining in the lounge, while satisfying your penchant for a blockbuster movie in
the private setting of the 64-seat theatre.
The lounge is open to all; no movie ticket necessary. It offers a sophisticated
restaurant and bar atmosphere where dining, cocktails and meetings are wel-
come. 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 Movi-
eTowne Port of Spain, this is the latest entertainment offering to movie lovers
with discerning tastes, nationwide.

ENTERTAINMENT  101 INS &

 THE CARNIVAL OF
WORLD INTERHASH TT By Niki Borde
Hashes
For the last 42 years, hashers have come together
at the World Interhash to explore over 21 places
across the globe including Australia, Fiji, Bali and
Malaysia. Never has the event been hosted in this
part of the world.
a drinking
From April 23-26th 2020, the 22nd edition of the
World Interhash, with over 75 countries taking part,
club with
will be hosted in Trinidad and Tobago. What’s this
about? Hashing is all about enjoying a run through
a running
interesting places, be it in the forest, city or a remote
village and then enjoying a couple of beastly cold
problem
beers afterwards. Simple. But there is much more to
it than meets the eye.
For instance, Hash Kennels, “a drinking club with
a running problem”, sets the tone for the weekend’s
adventure or weekly runs closer to towns. Hashers Dubbed the Carnival of Hashes, the World Interhash
enjoy the exercise of running and definitely the Trinidad 2020 will feature the addition of a few local
“liming” afterwards, but it’s not just a run. It’s more touches including the Red Dress Run which ends at
of a search for the correct path. You can get lost if the Hadco Phase 2 Panyard, where 1002 men and
you don’t know the signs. Hares set the course with women runners in red dresses, get their first taste of
markings to follow; these can mislead you down false Carnival. Hours later they will have to wake before
trails so you have to be alert. The fun starts when dawn for the J’Ouvert Run on Friday morning. With
the Hounds or Hash Packs set off in pursuit of the 28 run options over four days and three All Inclusive
trails, with the faster runners often taking the lead fêtes, it promises to be a hashing event like no other.
from the onset. Resourceful Hares try to keep their Not to be left out, Tobago will be the Pre Lube of
pack together by setting false trails, sneaky checks the event, with packages for early bird participants
or creating innovative loops that force the ambitious to enjoy the delights of Tobago before hitting the
forerunners to end up right back on the original track, trails in Trinidad.
often meeting up with the slower or more casual If you want to be part of the fun, log on to
hashers, allowing the main pack to finish at the same Interhashtrinidad2020.com On On!
time.

INS & 102 WORLD INTERHASH TT

OUTS
Visit Five Islands and get ready to take fun and adventure
to a whole new level!
 Bartenders and mixologists the world over vie for the
annual top spot in the Angostura® Global Cocktail Challenge
(AGCC), now celebrating its tenth year. That winner not
only receives US$10,000 but also has the opportunity to
work alongside the brand for two years as the Global Brand
Ambassador for the House of Angostura®, following in the
footsteps of Raymond Leota from New Zealand or Neal
Ramdhan and Daniyel Jones of Trinidad and Tobago - the
latter now based in Paris. This year, nine finalists, selected
from global competitive heats, will participate in the T&T-
based final, crafting their favourite Angostura® rum, bitters
and Amaro di Angostura® cocktails in just seven minutes -
leveraging their knowledge of the award-winning Premium
Rum Range and coupling it with their flair and finesse.
The House of Angostura’s® Global Brand Ambassador
programme lies within the purview of Raymond Edwards, the
former Chief Mixologist and current Chief Brand Educator
for the House of Angostura®. Raymond, once a professional
footballer before becoming a bartender, strongly believes in
the potential of the distillery – the only one of its kind in T&T.
The history of Angostura®, with the legacy of the Siegert
family, founders and creators of Angostura® aromatic
bitters, colliding with that of the influential rum-producing
Fernandes family, is an incredible one. What started as
a simple medicinal concoction in the town once called
Angostura in Venezuela, created by Dr Johann Siegert, has
now spawned a global spirits brand. Today, the distillery
offers Angostura® orange bitters, Amaro di Angostura®
Raymond Edwards
(an Italian liqueur), a rum for every palate and pocket, and
Former Chief Mixologist, current Chief Brand Educator
Angostura Lemon Lime and Bitters® in the ready-to-drink
non-alcoholic segment – all under the House of Angostura®.
Raymond’s role is to have that history, story and impressive

Sharing
product array, play in the minds of customers around the
world – through the central role of the House of Angostura®
Ambassadors. “Our Global Ambassadors are the eyes and

The House ears of the House of Angostura®. They decode and distil this
knowledge of the brand to thinkers and discerning drinkers.

of Angostura®
Our legacy has been built on Angostura® aromatic bitters,
but we also have some of the most awarded and well-
respected rums. These rums are part of the central story

Stories
of our own lives – from celebrations to losses. Rums that
range from Legacy – once the world’s most expensive rum,
to others in our range that have been a part of our shared
experiences as a people,” Raymond points out. “Our rums
ANGOSTURA® GLOBAL have been part of the story of Trinidad and Tobago, and it’s
something we take pride in,” he adds.
AMBASSADORS SPAN With applications for the AGCC coming from over 74
THE GLOBE markets, the appeal of quality rum in the spirits category is
undeniable. And with over 25 of the world’s finest bartenders
By Kieran Andrew Khan who serve as our Ambassadors telling the story of our
islands and sharing our world-class rum, we’re sharing the
best of us with the globe, one sip at a time.
 Strong individuals, strength in
depth; these two abilities ably
represent T&T sports. It’s a nation
steeped in sporting excellence
that is reflected by standout
individual performances, team
successes and increasingly, talent
spread beyond the traditional
hunting grounds of athletics,
cricket and football.

HIGHS&Lows TRINIDAD’S SPORTING YEAR

By Sheldon Waithe

The myriad of sports played across the island is
staggering, from the relative newcomers such as
Aquabike and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) to local
staples such as cycling, hockey and golf. If it’s being
played globally and does not require snow or ice,
the chances are there is a local chapter undertaking
the sport on a regular basis, in a perfect year-round
climate.
Sport in T&T is no longer bound by the parameters
of time-honoured seasons, hence major cricket now
played in July through to December. In that regard,
Trinidad hosted West Indies v India in two ODIs
at the Queen’s Park Oval in mid August with the
visitors comfortably winning both matches. The
CPL (Caribbean Premier League), easily the most
popular and successful event across the region, then
rolled into town. Trinidad hosted its five group games
involving the immensely popular entity, Trinbago
Knight Riders (TKR), before hosting a semi-final and
final for a third consecutive time. Alas, there was

INS & 106 SPORT

OUTS
to be no three-peat for TKR, but Barbados Tridents
beating Guyana Amazon Warriors in front of a sold-
out crowd was worthy of a brilliant tournament. In
November, the island also hosted the regional Super
50 competition, Kieron Pollard was named Windies
ODI and T20 Captain and Phil Simmons returned as
Windies Coach.
The Pan Am Games provided ample return for
athletes, while at the World Relays in Japan, the then
reigning 4x400 World Champions, T&T, emphasized
their standing by winning gold in dominating fashion.
However, at the World Championships in Qatar, the
T&T squad inexplicably failed to win a single medal,
which has not occurred since 2011; but fear not, that was
the year before T&T’s historic medal haul at an Olympics.
On the road, the Kenyans continued their haul in the T&T
International Marathon with Stephen Njoroge, taking the
men’s title and Grace Kahura the women’s.
Boxer Michael Alexander continued his upward
trajectory with a quarter final placing in the
Lightweight division at Russia’s World Championships,
to complement his Pan Am bronze. Ross Cabral took
the first big tournament of the year with his win in the
T&T Golf Association Classic; there were a few familiar
names in the top 15: Russel Latapy and Brian Lara
may be seeking a new sport to dominate....Ben Martin
secured victory in the T&T Open.
Dylan Carter booked his Olympic place as early as
July 2019, with fine performances in the World Aquatics
Championships, where he swam to a series of top
15 places. In powerboat racing, the new IRP Regatta
series proved immensely popular; Sheriff Lobo, Iron
Man and Conqueror took the various class titles.
Carlista Mohammed treated herself to a triple of
Women’s, Doubles and Mixed Doubles in the National
Open Tennis Championship, with Nabeel Mohammed
taking the Mens Singles crown.
It was year of upheaval for domestic football,
with clear effects on the national football teams.
The proposed T-League was supposed to unify the
Pro League and Super League teams but ran into
difficulties with opinions and finances. Meanwhile W
Connection won the last Super League that is now
set to continue while the woes of the national Men’s
team make unhappy reading. Despite a promising
draw to Japan in March, the Soca Warriors have not
won a match in the 13 games played throughout the
year. The national women’s team were preparing for
their shot at Olympic qualification, as we went to
press.
T&T’s Nicholas Paul did the unbelievable and broke
track cycling’s Flying 200M World Record, capping
great year-long performances from his compatriots
in the Team Sprint where T&T also recorded the
second best time ever. It bodes well for Tokyo 2020,
where the country will be captivated by the efforts to
add to an impressive overall medal haul for this small
but super-talented nation.
Multi-sport events will remain at the forefront
with the announcement that Trinidad will host the
Commonwealth Youth Games in 2021. With the
world class venues already in place, it perfectly
complements T&T’s Sport Tourism push, together
with a proven ability to host global events. Home and
abroad, the T&T sporting scene continues to excite,
entertain and evolve.
OPPOSITE PAGE
FROM THE TOP
Concacaf
Nations League
Michelle-Lee Ahye
Kershorn Walcott
Photos: Caribbean
Action Images
FROM LEFT
Cycling at the
National
Cycling Centre
Photo: Richard Lyder
Caribbean Premier
League Cricket
CPL T20
Photo: Nicholas Bhajan
 Continuing
the Legacy
T&T AT THE 2019 PAN AM GAMES
By Sheldon Waithe
As the last major multi-
sport event before the big
one - Tokyo 2020 - the 18th Pan American
Games and 6th Parapan American Games
were not just a chance to raise patriotic
fervour, but to check where T&T’s athlete’s
stood globally.
It was a mixed bag for the red, white
and black clad athletes; 103 of them in all,
across the bulk of the sporting alphabet,
from Archery to Taekwondo. Reputations
were solidified, new ground was broken
and a few disappointments forced a reset
in preparations.
The return of 13 medals (2 Gold, 8
Silver, 3 Bronze) in the Pan Am Games
and 4 (2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze) in the
Parapan, reflected the mix of world class
competitors on the hunt for precious
metal and those gaining experience for
future medal expeditions.
The nation’s investment in its cyclists
continued to reap rewards, with Nicholas
Paul, Njisane Phillip and Keron Bramble
taking the Team Sprint before the first
two men then took the top two positions
in the Individual event. Teniel Campbell
also doubled-up, taking silver in both the
Women’s Road Race and Time Trial.
In the water, Dylan Carter added to his
burgeoning collection with bronze in the
100m Backstroke, while on the water, Felice
Chow broke new ground for T&T with
a first ever medal in Rowing, silver in the
Women’s Single Sculls. Michael Alexander’s
Boxing bronze kept in the mix of Olympic
qualification.
The traditional bounty still came from
Athletics but there was disappointment
that none were gold. Four silvers from
Michelle-Lee Ahye (100m), Jereem
Richards (200m), the 4x100m Relay team
and Kershorn Walcott (javelin), represented
areas where certainly the latter three were
expected to mount the top step of the
podium. But the biggest surprise was the
4x400 relay squad’s bronze, given their
position as defending Pan Am and World
champions.
Akeem Stewart broke another world
record on his way to Discus Gold in the
Parapan Games, then added silver in the
Javelin. Not to be outdone Nyoshia Cain-
Claxton took gold and bronze respectively
in the classic sprinter’s double of the
Women’s 100m and 200m.
The Pan Am class of 2019 can be justly
proud of continuing the proud legacy T&T
enjoys at these Games, now it’s onto the
Olympics with the knowledge that our elite
athletes are ready to go toe to toe with the
rest of the world. Roll on Tokyo!
FROM THE TOP
Keron Bramble
Nicholas Paul
Njisane Phillip
Photo: Richard Lyder
Akeem Stewart
Photo: Caribbean Action Images
TRINIDAD SPORTS calendar
January
26
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
INTERNATIONAL MARATHON
www.ttmarathon.com

March
7-8
WAHOO FISHING TOURNAMENT
T&T Yacht Club, Bayshore
www.ttgfa.com

12-15
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
OPEN GOLF

July
St Andrews Golf Course

31-4 APR
MARLIN MADNESS 23-27
TOURNAMENT TEST MATCH: WEST INDIES
www.ttgfa.com V SOUTH AFRICA

April
Queen’s Park Cricket Club
www.windiescricket.com

5
SOUTHERN GAMES
August
Guaracara Park, Point-a-Pierre 19-26 SEPT
25 CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE
T20
TRINIDAD RALLY
www.rallytrinidad.net Brian Lara Academy
& Queen’s Park Cricket Club

June
www.cplt20.com

22
14 GREAT RACE
WAR ON WHEELS Port of Spain - Scarborough
(MOTORSPORT) ww.thettpba.com/great-race
La Vega Estate, Gran Couva

Photos: Nicholas Bhajan

September
20
MARACAS OPEN WATER SWIM CLASSIC
Maracas Bay
www.triathlon.co.tt/events

24
TRINIDAD DERBY
Santa Rosa Horseracing Complex
arimaraceclub.com

October
7
BEACON CYCLING ON D AVENUE
Woodbrook

17-18
CHINESE BICENTENNIAL
DRAGON BOAT REGATTA
The Boardwalk, Chaguaramas

SPORT  109 INS &

restaurants
 More Vino /
More Sushi
(868) 622-VINO (8466)
(868) 622-2710 (Fax)
Port of Spain – 23 O’ Connor St., Woodbrook
(868) 652-VINO (8466)
San Fernando – 33 Scott St., San Fernando
sales@morevino.com
www.morevino.com
More Vino is one of the most popular
restaurants on the island, best known for
their sushi. They combine traditional Asian
and Caribbean flavours for an undeniable
explosion of taste and excitement. Also
offered is an extensive selection from the hot
kitchen/cooked menu. You’ll feel at home,
whether you choose to sit inside or under the
grape vines on the terrace. Lunch, Dinner,
Takeaway, Catering, Event Space Rental and
Delivery.
sample menu $$
Appetisers: Shrimp tempura, edamame,
crispy chicken bombs, golden dumplings,
sriracha wings.
Hot Kitchen: Pad Thai, Japanese Curry,
Poke Bowls, Ramen.
Sushi Bar: Sriracha lobster, double crunchy,
angry crab, iron chef, volcano, tempura
crunchy ninja, scorpion pepper.
opening hours Fri & Sat: 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Sun: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Mon–Thu: 11:00 am – 10:30 pm
Fri–Sat: 11:00 am – 11:30 pm
INS & 112 RESTAURANTS
OUTS
Rizzoni’s
Ristorante Italiano
(868) 627-RIZZ (7499)
MovieTowne, Level 1, Fiesta Plaza,
Port of Spain.
657-RIZZ (7499)
MovieTowne, C3 Plaza/Complex,
San Fernando
www.rizzoni-italiano.com
Our inspiration for Rizzoni’s came from
generations of secret recipes and techniques
from the southern coast of Naples, to north-
ern Italy in honor of the Rizzo/Pisoni families.
Welcome to our home. Welcome to Rizzoni’s!
Undoubtedly the best Italian cuisine.
Download the Rizzoni’s To Go app.
Available for Functions.
sample menu $$
Starter - Creamy Shrimp Mac & Cheese
Pizzas - Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Pastas - Linguine di Mare
Chicken, Meats & Seafood -
Red Snapper Picatta
Italian Sandwiches & Burgers
- Rizzoni-Fried Rib-Burger
opening hours Sat–Sun: 6:00 am – 11:00 am
Lunch served daily: 11:00 am – 3:30 pm
Dinner: Sun–Thu: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm and
Waterfront
Restaurant
(868) 821-6550
Hyatt Regency Trinidad
1 Wrightson Road, Port of Spain,
Trinidad, W.I.
trinidad.regency.hyatt.com
www.opentable.com
Waterfront Restaurant invites you to
enjoy local and international cuisine with
a contemporary flair. We promise to take
you on an amazing culinary excursion.
Savour authentic flavours and magnificent
presentations as you dine indoors or outdoors,
with amazing views of the Gulf of Paria.
sample menu $$$$
Coconut Curry Soup
Roasted Vegetables, Zucchini Bolognese
Saffron Chicken Tikka Masala
Herb Crusted Lamb Chop
Apple Crème Brulée
opening hours
Breakfast:
Mon–Fri: 6:00 am – 10:30 am
Lunchfast:
Sat and holidays: 11:00 am – 1:30 pm
Lunch: Mon–Fri: 11:30 am – 2:30 pm
(includes Lightning Lunch)
Sat and holidays: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Brunch: Sun: 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Dinner: Daily: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sat Night Dinner Buffet: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
 JAXX
International Grill
(868) 625-JAXX (5299)
Movietowne Complex, Port of Spain
(868) 663-JAXX (5299)
Grand Bazaar, Churchill Roosevelt Hwy
(868) 665-JAXX (5299)
Price Plaza, Chaguanas
(868) 657-JAXX (5299)
C3 Centre, San Fernando
As a world-class grill house, an international
hub, a gateway to a world of flavours –
thanks to our talented chefs. We boast an
eclectic fusion of foods that are delicious
in any language. You’ll enjoy breathtaking
cuisine from a variety of countries such as
Mexico, Italy, Japan, Thailand, the United
States and India. Imagine indulging in the
exotic taste of Chicken Tikka Masala or
sinking your teeth into a flavourful, fire
grilled Mexican Fajita. Explore our delectable
desserts and soul-soothing drink selections –
we’ve got something for everyone.
“The World at Your Table”
sample menu $-$$
Lemon Butter & Herb-Grilled Salmon
Baby-Back Ribs
Ponzu & Ginger Salmon Poke Bowl
The Jaxx Heart Attack
opening hours (Kids 12 and under eat free at Sunday Brunch
Sun–Thu: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Fri–Sat: 11:00 am – 1:00 am
INS & 114 RESTAURANTS
OUTS
Salt n’ Pepper
Classical Indian
Cuisine
(868) 622-3938 / 339-4949
Shoppes of Maraval, Saddle Road,
Maraval, Trinidad
ajeshjose78@gmail.com
www.saltnpeppertt.com
You will find the best of subcontinental
Indian cuisine at Salt N’ Pepper at a fraction
of the cost paid at any fine dining restaurant.
Our food is much more than just roti and
curry – as anyone who has tasted our naan
or tandoori might testify. The food of India
varies with – and as much as – India’s land-
scape and soil type. After 16 years of living
in Trinidad, chef Ajesh Jose spent 11 years as
head chef at one of Trinidad’s best known
Indian restaurants.
sample menu $
Starter: Samosas, Kerala fried chicken
Chicken: Tikka masala, butter chicken masala
Lamb: Rogan Josh and vindaloo
Seafood: Fish curry, shrimp kurma
Tandoori Specials: Chicken, fish, shrimp
Naan: garlic, butter, peshwari
Vegetarian: Mutter mushroom, Aloo gobi
Rice: Basmati, biriyani, pulao
opening hours Dinner nightly: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Daily: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Texas De Brazil
(868) 623-0022
Level 2 Fiesta Plaza, MovieTowne
Invader’s Bay, Audrey Jeffers Highway,
Port of Spain
www.texasdebrazil.com
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 más!” An extensive wine list,
freshly made signature cocktails, and many
decadent desserts are available to complete
your dining experience. Fixed pricing (All
you can eat). Available for Functions.
sample menu $$$
Seasonal Salad Area.
Various Cuts of Beef, Lamb, Pork,
Chicken and Brazilian Sausage.
Brazilian Cocktail: Caipirniha.
opening hours
Sun Brunch: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
- restrictions apply)
RESTAURANTS  115 INS &
 Adam’s Bagels
& Specialty Breads
(868) 622-2435
15A Saddle Rd., Maraval,
Port of Spain, Trinidad
adam@adamsbagels.com
www.adamsbagels.com
Adam’s is a family-owned and operated
bakery, restaurant, and gourmet shop
located in the heart of Maraval. Believing
in fresh ingredients, quality products and
friendly personalised customer service, Adam
has developed strong relationships with his
customers over the past 23 years. Adam’s
earned the title: “Best Bakery & Coffee Shop
2013” by T&T Table Talk Awards. Visit us the
next time you are in the area and experience
the charm and hospitality that is Adam’s.
Breakfast, Lunch, Tea
sample menu $-$$
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.
opening hours Sun – Thu: 5:00 pm - midnight
Mon–Sat: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
INS & 116 RESTAURANTS
OUTS
Samurai
Sushi Bar &
Steakhouse
(868) 235-3283
Unit 26 B&C, One Woodbrook Place,
Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
reservations@samuraitt.com
www.samuraitt.com
Enjoy the Japanese experience at Samurai
Restaurant, Sushi Bar and Steakhouse, where
Japanese-born Executive Chef, Kenji Miura
creates an authentic culinary experience
enhanced with exotic Caribbean flavours.
We feature themed night specials every
week. Izakaya Mondays, Tasting Tuesday
(once per month), Social Sushi Wednesdays,
Steak Night (Thursday), 2.4.1 Cocktails and
Platters on Fridays, Wine and Dine Saturdays
and Family Sundays.
Lunch, Dinner, Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery
sample menu $$-$$$
Hamachi Ponzu
Ebi Tacos
Ishiyaki Beef Steak
Kamikaze Sushi Roll
Chicken Katsu Namban
Seared Scallops with Mushrooms
Samurai Ice Cream Tempura
opening hours Sun – Thu: 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Fri & Sat: 11:00 am - midnight
Island Beer
Chill & Grill
(868) 235-BEER (2337)
One Woodbrook Place, Port of Spain, Trinidad
(868) 220-IBCG (4224)
South Park, San Fernando, Trinidad
www.ibcgtt.com
Ever tried Warsteiner Pilsner right off the
keg? At Island Beer Chill and Grill you can
try over 100 different beers from around the
globe, such as lagers, ales and stouts as well
as ciders. Come and treat yourself to our
slow smoked meats, wings and even pasta to
complement any palate. We feature all major
sporting events on our big screens, coupled
with drink specials weekly.
Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway, Delivery, Curbside
Pickup and Available for Functions
sample menu $-$$
Garlic Pork
Beef Brisket Soup
Guinness Chicken
Cajun Lamb Chump
Trini Tequeños
German Hot Dog
Cuban Grilled Meat Platter
opening hours
One Woodbrook Place
Fri & Sat: 11:00 am – midnight
SouthPark
Daily: 11:00 am – midnight
RESTAURANTS  117 INS &
 Soong’s Great Wall
(868) 652-Wall (9255) / 657-5050 /
652-2583; (868) 653-3834 (Fax)
97 Circular Rd., San Fernando
soongsgreatwall@gmail.com
Nestled at the base of the iconic San
Fernando Hill. Join us at Soong’s Great
Wall for a dining experience just as awe-
inspiring as its majestic namesake. Step
into our newly renovated dining room or
our breathtaking outdoor deck ... relax and
be pampered by our highly trained staff,
personally instructed in the art of making
you feel welcome. Our skilled chefs will not
disappoint, preparing the finest Chinese
cuisine for you and your loved ones to enjoy.
Don’t miss our Sunday Lunch Buffet
featuring many delectable dishes. Private
upper level available for special functions &
seminars.
sample menu $$
Phoenix Basket
Sizzling Tenderloin Beef
Sesame Shrimp
Lobster Cantonese
Dasheen Pork
Great Wall Chicken
Pepper Squid
Lemon Fish
opening hours opening hours Manzanilla Madness
Sun – Thu: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Fri – Sat: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Closed on public holidays
INS & 118 RESTAURANTS
OUTS
Hakka
Restaurant & Bar
(868) 33-HAKKA (42552)
4 Taylor Street, Woodbrook, Port of Spain
info@hakkarestaurant.com
www.hakkarestaurant.com
Hakka cuisine is an elegant fusion of Chinese
recipes with distinct Indian spices and
flavours. Over 100 years ago, the original
recipes traveled from Mei Zhou, China to
India with the Hakka Chinese people, who
eventually settled in Calcutta. Over several
generations, the marriage of oriental
techniques and Indian ingredients evolved
into a gastronomic explosion for the taste
buds. Our chefs have travelled from the top
Hakka restaurants in Calcutta to meticulously
prepare dishes that define the sights, tastes
and aromas of the HAKKA experience.
Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway, Parking Available.
sample menu $-$$
Appetiser
Pepper Salt Calamari
Crispy Chili Mushroom
Hakka Chinese Salad
Main Course
Konjee Crispy Chicken
Red Curry Shrimp (Thai, Spicy)
Szechuan Rice
Mon – Thur: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Fri & Sat: 11:00 am – midnight
Sun: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
The Dreamy Creamy
Ice Cream Company
Tel (868) 223-8664
Coffee Street, San Fernando.
SS Erin Road, Debe.
Gasparillo Mall, Gasparillo.
Maraval Plaza, Saddle Rd, Maraval.
dreamy.creamy@live.com
The Dreamy Creamy Ice Cream Company
opened its first store on Coffee Street, San
Fernando in February 2010, selling a locally
produced premium ice cream product.
Although not categorising ourselves as
homemade, we use the finest ingredients
we can find to give customers a product
experience that is often compared to leading
international brands. We still, however, take
pride in staying as local as we can by using
fruits, produce and the freshest cow’s milk
from our local dairy farmers.
Over 30 Flavours
sample menu $$
Old Fashioned Flavour Listing
Very Strawberry
Peanut
Popular Flavour Listing
Coffee Street
Soursop
Dreamy Creamy Signature Flavour Listing
Chunky Fuh So
opening hours
Daily: 9:30 am – 9:30 pm
 THE ART OF CHAUD
At Chaud,
We deliver fine dining experiences
With integrity and value,
Where the power of a dish lies in each detail.
Your culinary escape is closer than you think.
Join us for our lunch or dinner today!

RESTAURANTS  119 INS &

 Herbs & Spices
Restaurant
(868) 624-3211 ext 6200 (Reservations)
Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre
1B Lady Young Road
poshifb@hilton.com
www.opentable.com/herbsandspices
Herbs & Spices offers an exciting take on
“farm to table”. Our culinary philosophy
features a seasonally inspired menu with
selections that focus on local ingredients and
fresh herbs to produce beautifully crafted
dishes by our chefs. The perfect choice for
all-day dining, Herbs & Spices is an excellent
meeting spot with its convenient location
along with its simple yet contemporary
ambiance, perfect for casual dining.
sample menu $$
Pastas:
Spaghetti Arrabiata
Main Course:
Salmon Gremolata
Tamarind Brushed Australian Rack Lamb 8oz
Butchers Block: Ribeye 10oz (boneless)
certified Black Angus
Desserts: Trinitarian Chocolate Crème Brulee;
Guava Cheese
opening hours Tue–Thu: 11:30 am – 11:00 pm
Breakfast: 6:30 am – 10:30 am
Lunch: Noon – 2:30 pm
Dinner: 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm
INS & 120 RESTAURANTS
OUTS
KAVA
(868) 622-KAVA (5282)
Kapok Hotel, Lobby Level
16–18 Cotton Hill, St. Clair, Trinidad
stay@kapokhotel.com
www.kapokhotel.com
KAVA’s eclectic menu features artisan brick
oven pizzas, salads, gourmet burgers, pastas,
steaks and more. It displays a wide selection
of wines, and offers a variety of internation-
ally renowned beers. Its convenient location,
along with the crisp and inviting décor,
makes it an excellent meeting spot! Enjoy
your choice of indoor café-styled seating or
relax on our outdoor terrace, both providing
the perfect setting for casual dining. Whether
it’s for a quick bite for lunch, grab-and-go, or
a leisurely espresso with tempting desserts,
KAVA is the obvious choice. Lunch, Dinner,
Takeaway and Available for Functions.
sample menu $$
Bone-in ribeye steak (16oz)
Herb-crusted lamb rack
Roasted vegetables
Brick oven pizzas
Prosecco mojito
opening hours opening hours
Mon: 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Fri & Sat: 11:30 am – midnight
Sun: Noon – 9:00 pm
Public Holidays*: 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Tiki Village
(868) 622-KPOK (5765)
Kapok Hotel, 8th Floor
16–18 Cotton Hill, St. Clair, Trinidad
stay@kapokhotel.com
www.kapokhotel.com
Tiki Village is a unique Asian-Polynesian
restaurant offering a stunning view of the
Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain,
and the Gulf of Paria. Explore our famous
Dim Sum menu on Sundays and taste our
delicately hand-crafted Asian delights. Or
join us for our sumptuous à-la-carte lunches
and dinners. Honey-toned wooden pillars
and copper masks, locally crafted by our
artisans, create a warm ambiance and an
elegant background. Perfect for a romantic
evening, business meeting or a family outing.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Takeaway and
Available for Functions.
sample menu $$$
Our Special Polynesian Delight
Fire Pot
Jing Shek Ban
Walnut Shrimp
Tiki Pork
Mon & Tue: 6:30 am – 3:00 pm
Wed & Thu: 6:30 am – 3:00 pm
6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Fri & Sun: 6:30 am – 11:00 pm
Dim Sum Sun: Noon – 2:30 pm
Popeyes Restaurant
(868) 285-9031
Restaurant Holdings Limited
Restaurant Support Centre
14 Frederick Settlement, Caroni
rsc@ttrhl.com
Discover Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, built
around the traditional Southern American
homestyle cooking. At Popeyes, food is our
passion and we are renowned for our chicken
and seafood.
Our chicken is marinated for twelve hours
to give you an unforgettable culinary
experience. You will ‘Love that chicken!’ Try
our signature side items to complete your
meal at any of our five Trinidad locations:
Movie Towne, Grand Bazaar, Trincity Mall,
Churchill-Roosevelt Highway, Price Plaza.
Lunch & Dinner.
sample menu $
Lunch & Dinner
Chicken (Mild/Spicy)
Chicken Tenders
Cajun Fish
Popcorn Shrimp
Sandwiches
Salads
Signature Sides
opening hours salads and desserts.
Sun – Sat: Opens from 10:00 am
Burger King
(868) 285-9031
Restaurant Holdings Limited,
Restaurant Support Centre,
14 Frederick Settlement, Caroni
rsc@ttrhl.com
The original HOME OF THE WHOPPER®,
our commitment to premium ingredients,
signature recipes, and family-friendly dining
experiences continue to define our brand.
Enjoy the diversity of our menu, with 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, Arima and
C3 Centre. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
sample menu $
Breakfast
Croissan’wich with ham or bacon;
pancakes; French toast;
eggs; bacon; hash browns.
Lunch
Whopper; Crispy Chicken;
Fish and Veggie Sandwiches;
Original Chicken Sandwich;
Tendergrill and Tendercrisp Sandwiches;
opening hours opening hours
Sun – Thur: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
Fri – Sat: 7:00 am – midnight
Little Caesars® Pizza
(868) 285-9031
Restaurant Holdings Limited,
Restaurant Support Centre,
14 Frederick Settlement, Caroni
rsc@ttrhl.com
Throughout its history, Little Caesars has
provided quality pizza at a great price,
resulting in outstanding value for customers.
Quality and value are core values at Little
Caesars, but the brand also represents
passion, fun, commitment and a focus on
family. Little Caesars has the well known
phrase Pizza!Pizza!®. Little Caesars broke
the status quo by making pizzas ready when
customers walk in, with no need to call ahead
or wait in line, with the launch of its HOT-N-
READY pizza offer. Visit any of our locations
in Trinidad: Gulf City Mall, C3 Centre, Shops
of Trincity – Tissue Dr., Maraval Plaza,
Village of Mandalay – Arima.
Lunch, Dinner, Takeout.
No Calling • No Waiting • It’s Ready Now.
sample menu $
Lunch & Dinner
Classic Pepperoni Pizza; Crazy Bread;
Three Meat Treat Pizza;
Veggie Pizza; Caesar Wings;
Ultimate Supreme Pizza;
Crazy Sauce; Hula Hawaiian Pizza;
Sun – Sat: Opens from 10:30 am
RESTAURANTS  121 INS &
 Taryn’s
The Panyol Place
(868) 622-3989
23 Mucurapo Road, St. James,
Port of Spain, Trinidad
thepanyolplace@gmail.com
Offering a cosy and friendly environment
characterized by original traditions of
Venezuela, Taryn’s, The Panyol Place, is a
unique eating establishment, bringing an
authentic and typical Venezuelan and Latin
American cuisine to its clients.
Professional, personal service and courtesy
accompany our original fresh corn-based
dishes, which are served every day.
Come and enjoy a wide variety of arepas,
empanadas, cachapas, hallacas and much
more, with various fillings, including white
cheese. Enjoy fresh fruit juices. Also, Taryn’s
offers a variety of dishes for lunch on a daily
basis, all with a Venezuelan flavour, such as
Pabellón Criollo. Try our special soups on
Saturdays. Spanish spoken.
Annie’s Mandarin Whipped
Restaurant & Lounge
(868) 357-9447
(868) 628-3021 (For Reservations) One Woodbrook Place
Shop # 6, One Woodbrook Place, Port of Spain, Trinidad, West Indies
Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, W.I. whippedbynalima@gmail.com
At Annie’s Mandarin Restaurant & Lounge, Formerly known as ‘Whipped by Nalima’,
we specialise in Chinese and Mandarin which specialized in decadent desserts,
cuisines. We prepare and cook fresh food ‘Whipped’ has now extended to a full
daily for lunch and dinner and cater for all restaurant and bar with a diversified menu,
occasions. No MSG is in any of our dishes. as well as a hookah station with a variety of
There are two popular vegetarian favourites, infused flavours.
Ma Pau tofu and hot plate egg plant. Dine
inside in air conditioned comfort, or outside, sample menu $$
al fresco on the balcony, while you relax
and drink some of our Chinese tea or sip on Salads: Kale salad
a cocktail while listening to some relaxing Mediterranean chickpea
music. Takes Reservations, Good For Kids, Rice bowls: Teriyaki salmon
Take Out, Catering, Waiter Service, Cuban chicken
Outdoor Seating Pasta: Penne à la vodka
Pesto Alfredo linguine
sample menu $-$$$$ Paninis: Banh mi
Tandoori salmon BLT
Appetisers Savoury crepes: Thai shrimp
Hong Kong wantons Chinese chicken
Home styled wanton soup. Sides: Cheddar jalepeño biscuits

W
sample menu $-$$
| DESSERTS BISTRO
R | HOOKAH | BAR
O | BA | HOO
BISTR KAH
H| | DE

Mac n’ cheese
OKA SSE
| HO

Main Course

RTS
AR
O|B

BIST
BISTR

RO |
BAR |
SERTS

HOOKAH
BISTRO | BAR | HOOKAH | DES

Jasmine fried rice Sliders: Spicy chicken sliders

| DESSERTS BISTRO | BAR | H
Cachapa Venezolana Lamb sliders
SSERTS

Baby patchoi OOKAH

H | DE
OOKA

| DES
R|H

SERT

Pabellón Criollo
| BA

S
BIST RO
RO |
BAR BIST

Funci with garlic shrimp

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

Tequeños opening hours

Steamed red snapper
Fresh crispy skin pork.
opening hours Mon: 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
opening hours Tue – Thu: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Mon–Fri: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm Fri: 11:00 am – 1:00 am
Sat: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm Sat: 10:00 am – 1:00 am
Mon–Thu 10:00 am - 10:00 pm.
Fri & Sat 10:00 am - midnight. Sun: 10:00 pm – 4:00 am
Sun & Public holidays 10:00 am - 10:00 pm.

INS & 122 RESTAURANTS

OUTS
Ducky’s Ortoire
Organic Roast
Seafood (DOORS)
(868) 313-1953
Ortoire Village, Mayaro
Trinidad, W.I.
doorseafood@gmail.com
Ducky was born and raised in the rural
fishing community of Mayaro called Ortoire.
As a fisherman, he will usually make his
signature meal after a hard day’s work. This
meal is roast fish. Using freshed fish from his
catch, basic seasonings like lime and pepper,
Ducky would roast his fish on an outdoor
fireside under banana leaves. DOORS was
born. Today DOORS offers a unique, original
and organic experience to its customers. Its
street food where one can witness the full
preparation of their meal. From the cleaning
of the seafood to the roasting with all the
natural ingredients under banana leaves.
sample menu $$
Roasted Lobster
Roasted lobster filled with shrimps
Roasted fish (all types)
opening hours Beef: Stewed, roast, oxtail
Mon – Fri: 5:00 am – 11:00 pm
Sat – Sun: 5:00 am – midnight
Smokey Joe’s
Caribbean Cuisine & Grill
(868) 627-1280
91 Ariapita Avenue, Port of Spain, Trinidad ​
(868) 346 0012
96 Frederick Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad
(868) 221-1224
26 Maraval Road, Newtown, Trinidad
(868) 270-2381
3–5 Chacon Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad
smokeyjoesrestaurant@gmail.com
www.smokeyjoestt.com
At Smokey Joe’s, it’s all about taste! We aim
to provide our customers with top-notch
local and international homestyle cuisine at
an affordable price, combined with excellent
customer service. We cater for all occasions,
such as corporate functions, workshops,
seminars, weddings, special occasions and
more. Packages are tailored to suit your
individual events. We promise that our food
will fire up your taste buds and have you
coming back for more! Happiness is a choice.
Make yours today!
sample menu $
Sides: Plantain pie, stuffed dumplings
Chicken: Jerk, BBQ, stewed, sweet and sour
Pork: Jerk, BBQ pigtail, char-siu, roast
Fish: Fried, jerk, grilled, stewed
Lamb: Baked, BBQ, stewed
opening hours Sat: 10:00 am – 8:45 pm
Daily: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Irie Bites
(868) 622-7364
71A Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook
www.iriebitesjerk.com
For a truly authentic Jamaican jerk
experience, we combine the unique taste and
flavours of old Kingston with the excitement
of Trini cuisine. Come try our signature
mouth-watering jerk and smoked BBQ
meats, with traditional Caribbean recipes
straight from Grannie’s cookbook. With a
different lunch special each day! It’s the
perfect place to sit and relax outdoors while
taking in the sights and sounds of Ariapita
Avenue. You can also call or go online, place
your order and come collect. Fast, easy, and
quality service. Look out for our sign and
our red, yellow, green and black restaurant
colors, and come visit us for a true Trini taste
of Jamaica. Irie Bites – Got Jerk? Go Irie!
sample menu $
Meats: Chicken, pork, lamb, fish,
pigtail, pork ribs.
Sides: Steak fries, Jamaican rice and peas,
mixed vegetables, stewed lentils, stir-fried
noodles, bhagi rice, sauteed cassava and
more...
opening hours
Mon–Thu: 10:00 am – 8:45 pm
Fri: 10:00 am – 9:15 pm
Sun: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
RESTAURANTS  123 INS &
 Nichossa Restaurant Flavours Restaurant Lime Inn
(868) 670-3771
(868) 652-8912 (868) 669-7000 / 669-(STAR) 7827 (868) 670-4566 (Fax)
Rainbow Plaza, Gulf View Link Road, 118–119 BWIA Boulevard, Piarco, Trinidad Acajou Hotel, Grande Rivière, Trinidad
Gulf View, San Fernando, Trinidad info@regentstarhotel.com info@acajoutrinidad.com
nichossa@live.com www.regentstarhotel.com www.acajoutrinidad.com

Nominated in three categories at the “Table
Talk” awards in 2016 and now celebrating 17
years, we are proud to invite you to our 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 chocolate
mousse cake and red velvet cheesecake.
Specialty bakery, Breakfast, Lunch,
Dinner and Catering for Functions.
sample menu $
Breakfast: Mexican omelette, Belgian waffle
Italian – Lasagna, Alfredo
Salads – Sesame chicken salad
Paninis – Grilled chicken & bacon
Wraps – Maracas shark, tandoori chicken
Burgers – Beef, turkey, salmon or vegetarian
Sweet Things – Opera cake, date squares
Savoury Bites – Beef pies, cheese puffs.
opening hours Breakfast: 7:30 am – 10:00 am
Breakfast:
Mon–Sat: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Flavours Restaurant:
Dine in sophistication with our modern and
exclusive restaurant setting. Devour in our
signature food with a unique flair influenced
from cultures around the world, coupled with
impeccable service. Dining Hours: 6:00 a.m.
to 11:00 p.m.
The Rocks Bar & Lounge:
Partake in our extensive selection of
alcoholic & non-alcoholic cocktails and local
& international liquors. VIP Lounges and
Open Air Outdoor Decks also available.
sample menu $-$$$
Appetisers
Scallops
Regent Star Pumpkin Delight
Main
Simply Lobster
New York Steak Au Petit “Bordeaux”
Flavours Signature Veggie Burger
Dessert
Tiramisu Cake
opening hours Lunch: 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Mon–Sat: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Reflecting our mix of Sweden and Trinidad,
our menu is a lovingly created marriage
between local and continental influences.
Come and relax in a setting that will
completely take your breath away.
Available for functions, Lunch and Dinner
sample menu $$
Starters
Creamy crab soup
Gazpacho with parmesan cheese
Cucumber soup with Acajou chicken salad
Tuna fish salad
Main
Pesto linguine & grilled eggplant
Grilled red snapper
Dessert
Nut and chocolate tart
opening hours
Open daily
Dinner: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Call to make your reservation.

INS & 124 RESTAURANTS

OUTS
Morsels
Tel (868) 322-1743
Bay View, La Romaine, San Fernando
morsels@hotmail.com
Morsels is Trinidad’s #1 online bakery,
focused on catering, through online &
telecommunication ordering processes,
promoting less in-store hassle, easy down-
payment options via account number, drop
off or collection, fresh items made when
ordered, with the option to be collected
or delivered to your door. Every attention
to detail and great service is met through
our exclusive order-based operation. Let us
take you through your life’s sweetest, most
savoury and elegant moments, deliciously
and hassle free. With an active Wi-Fi
connection and Internet banking you can
place an order and have it delivered without
ever leaving the kids, home or office.
Morsels had the opportunity to compete on
the Food Network’s, Cake Wars. Corporate
and Private Catering, Weddings, Birthdays,
Parties, Special Occasions, Events
sample menu Main Course - General Tao Chicken; Roast
Specialty cakes; Cupcakes; Cake pops
French macaroons; Brownies;
French desserts; Tea plates;
Snack boxes; Savoury menu
opening hours Canteen: Mon – Sat 6:00 am – 8:00 pm
Mon – Fri: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat: 7:00 am – 3:00 pm
Sun: Closed
Golden Palace
Chinese Restaurant
(868) 658-6557 / 1660 (Reservations)
212 Southern Main Road, Marabella, Trinidad
goldenpalacemarabella@gmail.com
For over 25 years, Golden Palace has been
a Marabella landmark. We provide top-
quality food and an unmatched level of
service. Enjoy our newly renovated, more
comfortable environment and expanded
dining choices, or simply lounge in the
bar area and have a few drinks. Our chefs,
trained in China, cook authentic Cantonese
dishes, bringing unmatched authenticity
to the culinary experience. Downstairs, the
Golden Palace Food & Grill Canteen offers
dining or takeaway, with a varied local
breakfast. For lunch, enjoy a wide choice of
local, Indian and Chinese cuisine. We cater
for functions, weddings and all occasions.
sample menu $-$$
Appetizers - Crab Back; Mini Spring Roll;
Spicy Fried Calamari
Duck in Thai Curry Sauce; Fish in Sichuan
Spicy Sauce; Beef Sautéed in Maggi Sauce
opening hours
Mon – Sun: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Happy Hour: 1/2 price on selected drinks
Mon – Fri: 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Sat: 12:00 midday – 4:00 pm
La Petite Fleur
Tea Shop
(868) 228-6514
22 Murray Street,
Woodbrook, Trinidad, W.I.
La Petite Fleur is a quaint, home-styled
restaurant, offering breakfast, brunch and
afternoon tea service. Come enjoy our
relaxed ambience, with an open-plan kitchen
located within an original architecturally
restored Woodbrook home with outdoor
terrace overlooking the scenic Adam Smith
Square. Join us for our sumptuous à la
carte breakfast or lunch, or choose from our
delectable desserts or leisurely afternoon
tea service, all offering a delightful mix of
local or international flair. Breakfast, Lunch,
Takeaway and Available for Functions.
sample menu $
Geera (Cumin) Pork Stuffed Plantain;
Codfish Fritters (Accras) with Pineapple
Salsa and Shadon Beni Aioli;
Pulled Pork Waffle Sandwich;
Moroccan Lamb Meatballs;
Crab-Stuffed Tempura Portabello.
opening hours
Mon: CLOSED
Tue – Sat: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sun: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Some Public Holidays
RESTAURANTS  125 INS &
 The Centro
Restaurant
(868) 627-5555
Invaders Bay, Audrey Jeffers Highway,
Port of Spain, Trinidad, West Indies
www.courtyardportofspain.com
The Centro, located at the Courtyard by
Marriott, is a casual dining restaurant offering
a distinctive blend of local and international
cuisine.
The relaxed and inviting atmosphere makes
the Centro a great location for reconnecting
with friends and family or entertaining a few
clients over lunch. The restaurant is open
seven days a week for buffet breakfast and
our all-day menu features a range of à la
carte options for lunch and dinner.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
sample menu $$$
Buffalo shrimp
Mexican chicken salad
Grilled Vegetable flatbread
Seafood delight
opening hours Desserts
Mon – Fri: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Sat, Sun & Public Holiday: 7:00 am – 12:00 pm
INS & 126 RESTAURANTS
OUTS
The Bungalow 519 Restaurant
Restaurant & Lounge & Bar
(868) 610-BUNG (2864)
20 Rust Street, St. Clair. Trinidad W.I.
reservations@thebungalowtrinidad.com
The Bungalow Restaurant and Lounge is
a modern dining experience, serving an
international fusion menu of main courses,
tapas and mixed drinks. Dine in our
contemporary styled restaurant and continue
your night relaxing in our ambient lit outdoor
lounge. We have both a full dinner menu
and a selection of tapas to delight your
tastebuds. Join in on our Bubbly Thurdays.
There is always something new happening at
the Bungalow!
sample menu $$
Tapas: Mediterranean Platter, Seafood Trio
Poultry & Beef: Grilled Lamb Chops,
Bungalow Burger
Seafood and Fish:
Thai Curry Shrimp,
Red Pepper Pink Salmon
Sides
opening hours Curry Duck Wontons
Dinner: Tue – Thu: 5:00 pm – midnight
Fri: 4:00 pm – 2:00 am
Sat: 5:00 pm – 2:00 am
Sun: Special Events &
Private Parties – 5:00 pm – til
(868) 220-0519
Courtyard C3 Centre, San Fernando,
Trinidad, West Indies
confianzainvestments@gmail.com
519 Restaurant & Bar is a social hub located
in south Trinidad. It is a trendy openspace
for ‘liming’ and dining. Guests are just as
likely to come for the famed Duck Wontons
as they watch a prize fight or the CPL series!
In addition to being named after legendary
Jamaican quickie, Courtney Walsh, there
are great jerk options available. The lunch
and dinner menu are already well known for
variety and affordability! 519’s cocktails run
the gamut from classics to their sought-
after SexyNGrown Bellini and the Flaming
Lamborghini! Takeaway, Pickup, Dine-In
sample menu $
Lunch
Fish Broth
519 Burger
Mocha Chocolate Cake
Dinner
Hot Honey Mustard Wings
Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Coconut Cloud Cake
opening hours
Mon – Thu & Sun: noon – midnight
Fri & Sat: noon – 2:00 am
Himchuli Restaurant Caffé Del Mare
(868) 675-8616, 782-8489
101 El Socorro Road, San Juan,
Trinidad, W.I.
himchulitt@gmail.com
Himchuli Restaurant has existed since the
22nd September 2014, offering a wide
variety of authentic Indian, Hakka, Thai and
Nepali cuisines with a mixture of Indian
sweets. We pride ourselves in ensuring all of
our ingredients are fresh and everything is
made to order. We look forward to serving
you with only the finest authentic flavours.
We’re open for lunch and dinner to dine or
take away and full catering services. Private
dining area, Reservation. No alcohol served.
All meats Halaal.
sample menu $$
Vegetable or chicken mo:mo
Manchurian wontons
Chicken tikka masala
Thai red or green curry
Gobi Manchurian
Garlic naan or peshwari naan
Jilebi or cashew tarbuj
opening hours
Mon–Sat: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Sun: Closed
Public Holidays: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
(868) 607-4000 (option 5 or 1646)
(868) 634-4175 (Fax)
Point Gourde, Chaguaramas, Trinidad, W.I.
inquiries@crewsinn.com
www.crewsinn.com
Our quaint coffee shop, Caffé Del Mare, is a
mediterranean treat and is sure to please.
With Italian coffee, leaf teas and many
epicurean delights – it’s a haven of steamy
goodness. Our dynamic setting is ideal for
any occasion and our personalised service
will make every moment a memorable one.
Free Wi-Fi.
sample menu $
Breakfast
Caffe del Mare Breakfast
Breakfast Supreme
Build your own breakfast
Soup/Salads/Appetizers
CrewsInn Soup du Jour
Fish Cakes
Sandwiches, Paninis & Wraps
Turkey & Cheese, Steak
Café Burger
Authentic Italian Pizzas & Calzones
Coffees
opening hours opening hours
Mon: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tue – Thu: 8:00 am – 6:30 pm
Fri & Sat: 8:00 am – 9:00 pm
Sun: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Public Holidays: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Lighthouse
Restaurant
(868) 607-4000 (option 4 or 1645)
(868) 634-4175 (Fax)
Point Gourde, Chaguaramas, Trinidad, W.I.
inquiries@crewsinn.com
www.crewsinn.com
Our Lighthouse restaurant is a total sensory
experience. It’s the picture perfect setting in
which to savour our imaginative cuisine. Our
delicious international flair, flavoured with
Caribbean piquancy, is sure to impress. You
can witness the day change from the delicate
pink and peach of sunrise to the dramatic
gold and sapphire of sunset from the breezy,
open-air covered deck, with the company of
our delectable cocktails.
sample menu $$
Salads
Classic Caesar Salad – (Chicken/Shrimp)
Sandwiches
Club Sandwich
Entrées
Catch of the Day
Lobster Thermidor
Specials from the Grill
Tenderloin Steak
Mon – Thu: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
Fri – Sun: 7:00 am – 10:30 pm
Public Holidays: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
RESTAURANTS  127 INS &
 beyond ordinary...

...Explore the extraordinary Caribbean island.

Unspoilt, untouched, undiscovered Tobago

TobagoBeyond.com | #101ReasonsTobago
 TOBAGO festivals
february

carnival 24 FEB 15-17

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

16

25
NATIONAL MEDIUM
CONVENTIONAL FINALS
Dwight Yorke Stadium, Tobago
7 PM

24
J’OUVERT

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

25
CARNIVAL TUESDAY
PARADE OF THE BANDS
Nationwide, 7:00 a.m.
www.ncc.co.tt • www.ncbatt.com

april
13
TOBAGO EASTER
CRAB & GOAT RACES
The Integrated Facility,
Buccoo, Tobago, 709-9084

23-26
TOBAGO JAZZ
EXPERIENCE (TJE) 2020
@tobagojazzexperiencett

INS & 130 FESTIVALS

OUTS
 2020 EVENTS IN TOBAGO

may
13-16
ANR TOBAGO REGATTA
@anrsailingregatta

july-august
TOBAGO HERITAGE FESTIVAL
@tobagofestivals
@ttaltobago

GREAT FÊTE WEEKEND

@GreatFete

october
BLUE FOOD FESTIVAL
@tobagofestivals
@ttaltobago

harvest
festivals
Held throughout
the year hosted by
various communities.

blue food
festival
OCTOBER
FESTIVALS  131 INS &
The Battle for Bellaforma
Sunken French & Dutch Warships
Reveal the History of Tobago
By Anna Walcott-Hardy

Tobago has long been a place of inspiration to many, from artists to

botanists and nature lovers. If cinematic views are what you crave or
a Disney-like adventure into an undiscovered world, look no further.
This stunningly scenic isle is said to have been an inspiration for
Daniel Defoe when he wrote the classic novel, Robinson Crusoe, and
the popular film from the 1960s, Swiss Family Robinson, was filmed
entirely on location, and the monumental Samaan tree house still
stands today in Goodwood.
 Named after the tobacco crop planted by the
Amerindians and the Spanish colonials, the island
boasts many natural wonders, from the Buccoo
Reef and Bon Accord Lagoon, a renowned Ramesar
wetland, to the crystal clear Nylon Pool and the
largest brain coral ever-recorded 10 ft x16ft, that you
snorkel around at the reef in Speyside. But much lies
unseen, in the waters below.
The island was originally settled by Amerindians
cultures, the Ciboney being the pioneers; followed by
those we call the Caribs and Arawaks. It’s easy to see
why Christopher Columbus arguably named the isle
Bellaforma (beautifully formed) or Asumpcion, when
he first saw it in the late 1400s; but it wasn’t until 1580
that British seamen visited the land and recorded it as
uninhabited, followed by Walter Raleigh’s lieutenant,
Lawrence Keymis. It was England’s King James I who
claimed the isle for the crown. However, over the
centuries the island would be settled by the Dutch,
fought over by the French, Spanish and then British
and many times, successfully protected by the First
Peoples, the original settlers.
Even after over 100 European families attempted
to settle, a migration advocated by the Duke of
Courland, the island treasured for its strategic
location, harbour and agricultural potential would
change hands over 30 times. In 1783 it was ceded to
Britain, captured by France in 1781 and recaptured by
the British in 1793 before becoming part of the empire
in 1814. After the British defeated the Spanish, they
claimed neighbouring Trinidad in 1797. And in 1889 it
TOP was annexed to Trinidad for administrative purposes.
Fort James Early in the nineteenth century African slaves were
Photo: RAPSO Imaging brought to Tobago and their industriousness, the
BOTTOM
forced, oppressive hours of labour they worked
Fort King George in the sugar cane fields, proved to be a significant
Photo: Jason Sookermany source of wealth to the owners of the plantations.
Today, Tobago’s economy is heavily dependent on
agriculture, fishing and eco-tourism, with its ties to
the proven oil and gas reserves of the islands.
Its vast and varied history makes the island a

Fun Fact
Its vast and varied history
haven for divers and in recent times, archaeologists.
In the aqua waters of Scarborough Harbour lie the
remnants of sixteen shipwrecked ships. In the battle
of 1677, Rockley Bay was the site of a significant naval
battle for control of the island. In 2012 a team of
makes the island a haven local and international researchers led by Dr Kroun
for divers and in recent N Batcharov, Professor of Maritime Archaeology at
times, archaeologists. the University of Connecticut and Affiliated Scholar
In the aqua waters of of the Institute of Nautical Archaeology were excited
Scarborough Harbour lie to look into what the wrecks could unearth about the
the remnants of sixteen 17th Century.
shipwrecked ships. The discovery has led the Tobago House of
Assembly to authorise the Rockley Bay Research
project to preserve the island’s rich maritime heritage.

FEATURE  133 INS &


The discoveries have led to the development of an
archaeological conservation lab in the Scarborough
Harbour that’s sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism.
What do the bloody battles of the Franco-Dutch
war of 1672-1678 have to do with the Caribbean and
this serene island in the south of the archipelago?
This historic battle that took place in the aquamarine
waters of Tobago would ultimately tilt the balance
of power in Europe and the world, for decades. It
took place on March 3, 1677 in Rockley Bay where
Dutch and French warships battled for supremacy.
The Amsterdam Admiralty sent one of their best,
Commander Jacob Binckes and a squadron of ships
to one of the treasured forts to face-off against the
French on a raid of their possessions.
Recognizing the threat, the French sent M. le
Comte d’Estree to crush the nascent Dutch colony.
After fierce battles for two weeks, the French fleet
risked it all with a daring strategy of launching a
two-pronged attack by land and sea. Surprising the
Dutch, the French fleet sailed two ships at a time
through the narrow passage-way into the harbour
Bell Tank, Fort King George
Photo:Jason Sookermany
Fort King George
Photo:Jason Sookermany
and faced the waiting cannons, head-on. However,
the unexpected and highly risky manoeuvre would
benefit the French as the Dutch ships were poorly
manned, although they were able to sink four of the
fifteen French ships, including the prized La Glorieux
and the French were forced to retreat in the chaos,
the carnage was worse for their foes. Ultimately eight
of the ten Dutch warships would sink to the floor of
the harbour, and thousands of innocent lives were
lost including mariners, women and children. Months
later the French would lay claim to the isle. Although
in the 1990s the dredging of the harbour destroyed
many of the wrecks and artefacts, some cannons
and timbers have been reclaimed. Surveys continue
and geometrics have been used to search hundreds
of acres for new artefacts. It’s a war story that will
let us understand world history and the tumultuous
fight among Imperialists for this now picturesque,
stunningly beautiful land.
Visit tobagoshipwrecks.com
to learn more and see the virtual museum tour.
 Tobago
heritage festival By Roslyn Carrington

135 INS &

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

Moriah Old-Time Wedding

Return to a time when gents wore top
hat and tails and damsels carried parasols
in gloved hands while the lacy hems
of their gowns fluttered in the breeze.
Accompany the ‘bride’, decked out in her
glory, as she makes her way through the
streets of Moriah to meet her ‘groom’.
She’s serenaded by traditional musicians
on flutes, fiddles and drums. Join in the
fun and learn to dance the ‘reel and jig’,
then enjoy a ‘wedding feast’.

Black Rock Sea Festival

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

Dancing the Cocoa

Say it with us: we love chocolate!
Trinidad and Tobago grows some of
the best cocoa in the world. Witness
it being prepared the traditional way—
by dancing on the bean. It’s all part
of Charlotteville National Treasures
Day. Taste the sweet white pith of the
cocoa bean, but leave room for the
“blue food” (“ground provisions” such
as yams, dasheen, cassava and sweet
potatoes) that’s sure to be on sale.
See how women laundered clothes
in the river, or enjoy the unbelievably
refreshing taste of sugar cane juice
pressed fresh in a “batty mill”.

INS & 136 SECTION NAME HERE

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

Other events you

don’t want to miss:
Games We Used to Play: Set your inner kid
free at the Mason Hall Recreation Ground.
You never really forget how to jump rope,
pitch marbles or play hopscotch.

Buccoo Goat and Crab Race

Pick your favourite and place your bets.
The competition is keen and the action
doesn’t stop until the last runner crosses
the line.

Folk Tales and Superstitions

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

Read the events calendar

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

Check out
tobagoheritage
festival.com
Facebook:
@tobagofestivals

Tobago Heritage Festival

Photos: Tobago media Concepts
Photo: Christopher Anderson
explore
 nnmatched
BEAUTY
NATGEO FEATURES AUTHENTIC & UNDISCOVERED TOBAGO
By Alva Viarruel

NatGeo Traveller’s production crew made two trips to Tobago Tobago’s Tourism Agency (TTAL)
in early 2019. Among the highlights to be featured on NatGeo may soon have to change its branding
will be the unique sport of goat racing - where jockeys run taglines as the world is about to
behind their charges - as well as the white-tailed sabre wing
discover the island’s “unspoilt,
hummingbird which can only be found in Tobago.
untouched, undiscovered” beauty
“Tobago is unique in that it feels relatively untouched by
the rest of the world. There is an authenticity to it which other through several features in the
destinations lack. This makes it an incredible place to explore and National Geographic Traveller – the
an important place to protect so that future generations can enjoy UK edition of one of the most iconic
its natural beauty just as much as we have,” explained Director/ and widely read magazines worldwide
Producer Thomas Windward, part of the production team from - print and digital platforms.
Traveller who came to Tobago along with Cinematographer Max
Smith. TOP
The production team use a drone to
Tobago’s highly respected bird expert and ecologist William capture the three levels of Argyle
Trim, led the production team through the Main Ridge Forest Waterfall - Tobago’s highest waterfall.
Reserve and to the Argyle, Parlatuvier and Castara waterfalls,
utilizing his expertise to spot and identify some of the 220 INSET
Cinematographer Max Smith films birds
species of birds found on the island. along the trail.
TTAL’s chief executive Louis Lewis said in an interview that
the production crew were quite blown away by what they saw. OPPOSITE PAGE
“What they discovered is flora and fauna common to the South The process of making dirt oven bread
was also captured by the crew in Castara.
American mainland in an island setting, so it lends itself to a wide
variety of birds and wild life.” Photos courtesy: Tobago Tourism Agency Limited

INS & 140 EXPLORE

OUTS
 NatGeo’s publication will highlight five sequential
features on the island, as well as videos on the
webpage hub.
“The core attractions that make Tobago attractive
from a tourism perspective are the natural
environment, sun, sea and sand, its cultural heritage
and also a romance/wedding destination. The one
most attractive is its natural environment and in
looking for a partner to help promote that we couldn’t
find one better known than National Geographic
Traveller, hence the reason for the partnership,” Lewis
added.
“This puts Tobago on a showcase we’ve never had
before and it synchronizes with our go to market
branding strategy. The growing trend in the world is
one of reduction of greenhouse gases and focusing
on environmental preservation. Tobago fits right
into that with this depiction of an eco-environment
friendly destination. We’ve partnered with those who
are prominent in that area and there is a synergy and
movement that allows us to amplify our presence,”
Lewis explained.
Commenting on his experience while filming in
Tobago for Traveller, Winward added,”…there is
obviously a very strong community at the heart of life
in Tobago. It feels like home away from home, and the
natural beauty is like nothing I’ve seen before.”

EXPLORE  141 INS &

meet a tobagonian Newton George
ORNITHOLOGIST
By Kieran Andrew Khan

Newton George, avid birder, former game warden

and custodian for Little Tobago has been featured
in several documentaries internationally including
Sir Richard Attenborough’s renowned The Trials of
Life. A native of Speyside Tobago and student of
wildlife conservation through the Eastern Caribbean
Institute for Agriculture and Forestry, his company
NG & Company Nature Tours is now sharing the
beauty of the twin-island as a birding destination
with hundreds of visitors annually.
Newton’s love of birds came first from his father
who was also the Custodian for Little Tobago – the
last resident one too. Growing up in the seaside
village of Speyside tucked away in the north of the
island, they would spend their vacations on Little
Tobago – the tiny island located just off the coast.
They would be the only residents on the island
which also serves as home to dozens of species
of birds once including the Bird of Paradise, last
sighted by Newton in November 1981. “I was just
about eight years old when my father introduced
me to birding. Of course, as a boy I loved to play
cricket and football too – I was very involved in
sports. But once you are introduced to birding, you
never go back. The colour and beauty of each of the
species is something that draws you in. And given
that Tobago is home to 261 documented species
in just 116 square miles, there is no better place
on earth to get into it. Tobago also ranks fifth per
capita for birds – which is part of the innate beauty
of the island. To date, I’ve seen about 3,000 species
of birds on my list which is about one-third of the
10,000 that exist!” he proudly asserts.
For the last 19 years, Newton has attended the
annual British Bird Watching Fair and connected
with like-minds and friends from around the world.
He has also travelled to Panama, Costa Rica, Brazil So entwined is his life with the love of birds,
and parts of Africa and India to promote Tobago that his home in Speyside is a destination-
and develop his interest in a life-long hobby. He must for visitors to the island to witness
has delivered talks at the British and Canadian the myriad of hummingbirds that sip at the
fairs in addition to appearing on several local and feeders scattered around the property. While
international television features. After several his son is just getting into the family’s favourite
years of service in the Tobago Forestry Division, activity, he also recently took several children
responsible for the oldest protected rainforest in under his wing and began training tours for
the Western Hemisphere, and as custodian for Little a new generation, all at the age he was when
Tobago, his early retirement allowed him to explore his father first took him on birding adventures.
his pastime further, resulting in a touring business “I want to establish this group as a way of
which makes daily trips to Little Tobago as well as keeping this tradition and respect for what we
parts of the main islands of Tobago including the have to offer alive. I want that and them, to be
rainforest he once tended. my legacy.”

INS & 142 MEET A TOBAGONIAN

OUTS
 In Full
Flight Tobago’s
Rich and Rare
Diversity makes it a
top Birding Destination
By Alva Viarruel

Birds, whether it’s the Rufous-vented

Chachalaca, the White-tailed Jacamar
or the beloved Cocrico, they are
certainly attracting a flock of visitors
to the island.

Tobago, with its 220 species of birds, and boast of being

the only place in the world where the White-tailed Sabre-wing
Hummingbird resides, is in on the action and will soon see
an influx of “birders” as the Tobago Tourism Agency (TTAL)
ramps up its branding drive.
TTAL’s chief executive Louis Lewis notes the island’s
popularity “is actually growing. Birding is a growing trend
which presents a unique opportunity to showcase something
rare and interesting. The National Audubon Society says
Tobago has the fifth highest birding species per capita in the
world. Given the size of the island and the number of species
that we have it just may very well be that Tobago is the easiest
place to see a rare specie of bird in the world. For us it’s a
very important market and there are some interesting strong
points we have that make it an ideal market for us.”
This was evident in the popularity of Tobago at the annual
Birdfair in Rutland Water Nature Reserve in Leicestershire,
United Kingdom, in August 2019. The booth was judged second
best among exhibitors at the event which is the largest of its
kind in the UK, attracting more than 23,000 visitors annually.
The team was able to educate birding enthusiasts and experts
on the unique aspects of birding in Tobago and highlight the
FROM THE TOP
commercial travel packages that are available to birdwatchers White-tailed Sabrewing
considering the destination. Rufous-tailed Jacamar
TTAL engaged BBC’s Wildlife Magazine to prominently Photos: Stephen Jay Photography

feature Tobago in the British Birdwatching Fair Guide which

allowed the destination to be exposed to 226,000 readers.
The partnership with the BBC subsidiary also allowed Tobago
exposure on digital platforms, with a “website takeover” and
boosted social media posts.
Tobago’s premier bird-watching and natural history guide
Newton George, who was with the team in the UK, expressed
joy at the experience which he looks forward to every
year. Tobago remains a “major birding
destination” he said, and as more guides
get involved he expects the sector to
grow. “There is definitely a brighter future
for birding here but the industry needs
private sector investment to grow.”

EXPLORE  143 INS &

Kilgwyn Bay Castara Grafton Beach

Photo: Jason Sookermany Photo: RAPSO Imaging Photo: Nicholas Bhajan

Best
TOBAGO
BEACHES

Photo: Devan Mulchansingh

 Mt. Irvine Photo: Coco Reef Coconut Bay No Man’s land
Resort & Spa

Photo: RAPSO Imaging Photo: Devan Mulchansingh

 Best
beaches
TOBAGO

Castara
Even from the look-out the crescent-shaped
bay seems surreal. This picturesque fishing
village is lined with coconut and almond trees
and boasts turquoise waters and two bays,
aptly named Little and Big, that are great for
snorkeling.
Coconut Bay
Enjoy the warm aquamarine waters and lush
gardens bordering this private beach, just
minutes from the airport, that’s part of the
exclusive Coco Reef Resort and Spa.
Mt Irvine
Clear jade-green waters, a coral reef teeming
with a myriad of fish, as well as modern
amenities, make this a popular choice for many,
and for good reason.
No Man’s Land
Paradise found: an uninhabited natural spit in
the Bon Accord Lagoon, with bleached coral
sands and shallow, crystal-blue waters. You
can enjoy a swim or sip some rum punch in the
shade of a palm tree.

Grafton Beach y
e Kenn
Broad, expansive white sands and blue-green : Duan
Photo
waters that many surfers enjoy, with a few
rock-pools that are great for kids to explore,
make this beach a popular choice.

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

Photo: Devan Mulchansingh

 tobago
On your visit to Tobago
be sure to get in some
snorkeling. You’ll find
beautiful underwater

DIVE
landscapes and an
abundant of bright and
vibrant marine life, along
with different species of
colourful coral.
Here’s some locations
visitors just can’t seem
to get enough of.
• Storebay
• Buccoo Reef
• Mt Irvine Reef
• Arnos Vale Bay
• Castara
• Charlotteville
• Speyside

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

Bioluminescence
emission of light by a living organism,
and Tobago is blessed with year-round

TOUR
plankton. Of course like all living things
you have to know when to go to get the
best experience. Some nights the moon is
too bright or the wind is from the wrong
direction, so going with an experienced
operator is paramount to getting the
most of this experience. Stand Up Paddle
Tobago and Radical Sports founded
Bioluminescence Tours in Tobago 8 years
ago and have been learning more and
more about the marine creatures of the
night. We have also continued to have
a zero carbon foot print with our tours,
with no gas, plastic or waste of any kind.
We are 100% green!

STAND UP PADDLE
Tel: (868) 681-4741
www.standuppaddletobago.com
 A DAY TOUR
of a lifetime By Anna Walcott-Hardy

If you’re interested in discovering some of the most idyllic

beaches and coral reefs on the island, while enjoying a
sumptuous seafood lunch, then this Day Tour is made for you.

You can start with an early morning trip to the Mangrove Boardwalk at
Tobago Plantations, near to the Magdalena Hotel and Golf Course. It’s a
ten-minute drive from the airport. Discover the latticed beauty of one of
the eight fairly small wetlands on the island. The mangrove swamp which
borders the lagoon is a rich and bio-diverse habitat, where you can see
brightly coloured crabs and several birds including egrets exploring the
mud flats below. It’s an interesting walk along a wooden-planked trail
that you’ll enjoy in the cool of the morning or at dusk.
Then after you’ve packed some water, fresh fruit and don’t forget the
snorkelling gear, drive along the coast to the idyllic Mount Irvine beach.
Teeming with marine life, a refreshing swim in the emerald green waters
of the bay and you may find fish, turtles and crabs on the western side
of the promontory.
Then it’s the picturesque Northside Road that will take you to one of
the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, Englishman’s Bay. After a
refreshing swim in the crystal, clear water, enjoy some delicious fresh
fish and chips or local provisions for lunch, topped off with coconut
ice cream for dessert, at the seaside restaurant. Pick up some trinkets
and then continue your journey north to Speyside just in time for the
2pm or 4pm boat-ride to Little Tobago to see the red-billed tropicbird,
Audubon’s shearwater, brown booby and bridled terns. After a snorkel
in the reef nearby where you can view the monumental brain coral, you’ll FROM THE TOP
return for a lovely sundowner before heading home. Mount Irvine Bay
For the adventurous and energetic, we recommend a bioluminescence Photo: Mark Hardy

tour in the Bon accord Lagoon in the evening. It’s a magical display of Englishman’s Bay
phytoplankton you can enjoy from your kayak; the voyage takes you Photo: Christopher Anderson

into a world where the luminous green light makes the stingrays or
water cucumbers emerge in a phosphorescent glow. A perfect end to
an unforgettable day.

INS & 148 EXPLORE

OUTS
 away from home
Personalise your vacation in a self-contained apartment or villa or just
experience a comfortable, cosy bed-and-breakfast or guesthouse.
Tobago has accommodation to suit every taste and budget. Wherever
you choose to rest your head, Tobago is the ideal getaway!

Caribbean Estates, Villas Are Us Ltd. SeaJade

Lands & Villas
(868) 639-LAND / 639-5263 / 639-9663
Cor. Milford & Golden Grove Roads,
Canaan, Tobago
info@realestatetobago.com
www.realestatetobago.com
Friendly, professional staff with a wealth
of experience in the Tobago real estate
and villa rental markets coupled with a
wide variety of properties for sale and
rent has made us the industry leader. We
look forward to helping you find your
perfect holiday getaway or your new
Tobago home.
(868) 481-5986 / 326-0543
Black Rock, Tobago, West Indies
yourtobago@gmail.com
gillian@tobagovillasareus.com
www.tobagovillasareus.com
We are Tobago’s premier full-service,
luxury vacation agency. Our villas are
among the most beautifully appointed
and ideally situated on the island. While
each has its own unique appeal, all offer
the very best in accommodation and
amenities. Our caring staff is committed
to seeing that your every need is met.
Investments
(868) 631-JADE (5233); (868) 639-6636
P.O. Box 1107, Bon Accord, Tobago, W.I.
seajadeinvestments@gmail.com
www.seajadeinvestments.com
Exclusively Tobago real estate agency
serving this unique tourism-driven market.
Broker Dawn Glaisher represents Tobago
on the board of the national Association
of Real Estate Agents and Alison de
Freitas is a registered Sales Associate.
Their 20 years together in real estate
represent amazing breadth and depth of
experience drawn on for the benefit of
clients. SeaJade is FIU registered.
 inspiration
TOBAGO

Helen Evans draws all the inspiration for her work

from the beauty of Tobago. She tries to capture
this beauty through her forms and glazed surfaces,
chanelling colours, textures and motifs of Tobago
into her ceramics.
Having spent time away researching and
developing her craft, she recreates Tobago’s
natural forms and colours in her designs and it
is a never-ending source of artistic inspiration.
Each new design takes about 3 months to
complete as she modifies shapes and glazes
until perfect and repeatable.
She produces ceramics for visitors to encourage
them to return to Tobago, but she also creates
pieces for residents that will fit into their beautiful
island homes.

Pigeon Point Heritage Park • Pigeon Point Road, Tobago
(868) 631-8101 • planetceramics.com • @planetceramics
Handcrafted in Tobago
“Each individual item is lovingly handcrafted from
stoneware clay and high-fired with my uniquely-
formulated signature glazes. These materials and
processes create durable, practical and decorative
products that can be used, not just admired. There
are different creative techniques including coiling,
press moulding and throwing on the potter’s wheel,

INS & 150 SHOPPING

OUTS
all handmade right here in Tobago. My ceramics range from large decorative
art pieces to smaller useable ceramics”.
Helen’s work is produced and sold exclusively through her Tobago studio
and showroom near the jetty within Pigeon Point Heritage Park.

Interactive Experience
As a unique visitor experience, she
offers the opportunity to participate in
demonstrations of how the ceramic
pieces are made, and organises
workshops aimed at involving
visitors and customers in a more
interactive way. She loves to
encourage the creativity of
visitors and provide them
with a memorable experience
as well as something to take
home.
So come and spend an
afternoon at the studio and
make your own piece of ceramic
art. At the end of the workshop,
choose your favourite colour from
her in-house glaze collection and it
will be fired and glazed for you. You are
promised a fun and exciting experience!

SHOPPING  151 INS &

Photo: Christopher Anderson
entertainment
 LEFT
Toni Braxton

INSET
Michael Bolton

Photos:
Andrea De Silva Viarruel

INS & 154 SECTION NAME HERE

OUTS
 2019 Tobago
Jazz festivals in Tobago have been something of a hit and miss in recent
times, but the 2019 Tobago Jazz Experience managed for the first time
by the Tobago Festivals Commission, can be summed up in one simple
phrase: short and sweet.
If we’re to believe the exit survey of the
Tobago Tourism Agency (TTAL) then for
certain the 2019 Tobago Jazz Experience
was a success. With an impressive 75% of
respondents claiming satisfaction with the
product and an even higher 83% expressing
a willingness to return in 2020, the organizers
of the well patronized shows must be very
pleased indeed.
It was no surprise, though, to see Chief
Secretary Kelvin Charles and members of his
executive doing the electric boogie in the
VIP section at the scenic Speyside grounds,
as Jamaican entertainer Marcia Griffith
performed her signature song. The veteran
artist had invited guests on stage to “boogie”
with her and was clearly the hit of the night.
Interestingly, it was the first time the island’s
Festivals Commission charged an entry fee
to the venue for what is billed as Caribbean
Night, but as Chief Secretary Charles noted
afterward, such was the turnout, that
vendors also sold-out.
Apart from
the food fare,
the offering
on stage was
certainly up to par
with local artist
Olatunji Yearwood
wowing his
audience with his
trademark pumped-
up performance.
Local band, Imij & Co,
were also high-energy
By Alva Viarruel
and engaging, providing back-up for the local
acts as well.
The show followed the preliminary offering
of the four-day music concert series dubbed
Jazz on the Waterfront, which featured a host
of local acts. Newcomer LeAndra stood out,
as she performed genuine jazz and classic
songs, leaving the audience begging for an
encore.
Local diva Vaughnette Bigford pleased fans
on the International Night, closing concert
performances with her polished signature act.
Desperadoes, the steelband from the hills of
Laventille, rocked the house with their perfect
execution of several pieces as internationally
known Tobago pannist Cannon Jack joined
their ranks under the guidance of the talented
Clive Zanda; followed by the self-proclaimed
king of soul, Jacquees.
The last in the concert trilogy had not one but
two feature acts, with veteran Michael Bolton
proving to be a true crowd pleaser. Ageing
like fine wine, his powerful voice resonated,
proving he was as powerful on stage as he is in
the studio. Bolton engaged his audience with
the story behind his compositions that have
become timeless treasures. Closing the show
was the American singing diva Toni Braxton
who showed a love and appreciation for the
fans as they sang along during her selection
of chart-topping hits. Another successful year,
for an event that continues to grow in size and
talent.
FB: visittobago
www.tobagobeyond.com
ENTERTAINMENT  155 INS &
 weddings
TOBAGOBy Tevin R. Gall

INS & 156 SECTION NAME HERE

OUTS
 While Trinidad brings the bustle
and the Carnival beat, Tobago
offers the stuff of vacation dreams,
making it the perfect place to
celebrate a special romance.
Richard Carrington, event planner,
marketing strategist and founder
of Keith Austin Creative Agency
has put together many a successful
wedding on the sister isle.

With their all-inclusive packages and

spacious venues, hotel ballrooms are a popular
standard option for couples and can be easily
customized. “Attractive group rates entitle
clients to a discount on the rental,” Carrington
explained. Packages often include items such
as wedding candles and decorating services.
The elegant dining and cocktail facilities are
juxtaposed with the allure of the beach nearby.
“Lots of couples want that beach-wedding
setting,” Carrington admits. Hotels that are
located near the water provide the best of
both worlds, offering the sought-after beach
experience, as well as the comfort of indoor
facilities. “You can have a cocktail reception
on the beach at sunset before moving into the
pavilion to start dinner.”
In addition to the traditional hotels, there are
also villas on the island with modern amenities
that are wrapped in classic Caribbean design,
they may offer somewhat of a more residential
feel, giving the reception a breezier, more
comfortable vibe. Carrington advises those who
prefer this type of setting to visit Grafton Ridge,
as well as in the capital, Scarborough. Facilities
such as pool decks and gazebos add character
to the event and can be incorporated into
the reception or even the wedding ceremony.
“With the sea as a backdrop, a gazebo is the
perfect touch for a ceremony site,” Carrington
added. He also suggested that, unlike at most
hotels where clients are restricted to the menu,
villas provide private kitchen facilities and may
often have housekeeping staff.
Carrington, who has spent several years
living in Tobago while working in hospitality
management, referred to the island as a “one-
stop shop” in that it offers varied premium
facilities and creative services with the added
vacation element. “There are several venues
and a small network of talented people.” With
a range of sites and services, Tobago offers
all you need to make your special day a truly
memorable one.
Photo: Christopher Anderson

SECTION NAME HERE  157 INS &

 THE ACTION ATTRACTION
By Sheldon Waithe

INS & 158 SECTION NAME HERE

OUTS
 Tobago’s capacity to host varied and unique
sporting events, of all sizes, continued apace in 2019
and maintains the trajectory for burgeoning sports
tourism on the island in 2020.
Year upon year, visitors from across the globe
discover the delight of competing, or simply testing
themselves, in an environment that capitalizes on the
island’s amazing biodiversity coupled with modern
facilities. Throw in the performances of Tobagonians
that honed their talents on this stage - Dwight Yorke,
Kelly Ann Baptiste, Claude Noel, Akeem Stewart (to
name but a few) - and all the inspiration is provided.
The sea, of course, plays a major part in this
sporting paradise. Fishing calls for experience
to complement skill and it all counted for a lot as
the crew of Magic Lady, repeated their 2018 Marlin
Madness victory. They caught (and released) 15
Billfish on their way to the title - the 39th year that
the popular tournament has been held - with the
bonus of earning the chance to represent T&T at the
Offshore World Championship 2020 in Costa Rica.
www.ttgfa.com
Somewhat faster boats took part in the aptly
named Great Race, celebrating its 51st year and
sealing its place as one of the longest running
offshore races in the world. Great in length (between
Trinidad and Tobago), great in the challenge it
offers, great in excitement and a great weekend
of festivities on the island ensues each year. Team
Energiza overcame the ubiquitous Mr Solo Too, to
set-up a mouth-watering revenge meet when the
boats once again roar come August 2020.
thettpba.com/great-race
It wouldn’t be paradise without golf tournaments
on some foremost courses, would it? In February,
the Scarborough Cup made a welcome return to the
Tobago sporting calendar after a three-year hiatus.
Local players teed-off with golfers from Canada
and Barbados on the fabled Mt. Irvine course,
kicking-off a year on the greens that included the
Chief Secretary’s Charity Tournament (June) and
September’s regional South Caribbean Open.
www.mytobago.info
High temperatures in June made the annual Massy
Rainbow Cup Triathlon even more of a challenge, particularly
for the sizeable international contingent. Frenchman
Clement Briere and Canadian Nina Sieh took the Olympic
distance honours on Turtle Beach, with the usual plethora
of events such as the Try-A-Tri, Youth and Relay events,
attracting thousands. www.rainbowcuptobago.com
It was also a clean sweep by foreigners in the Sea to Sea
Marathon, with Richer Cobas (Puerto Rico) and Palmenia
Berrio (Venezuela). The race itself is as its name suggests,
unique, taking runners on an undulating course from Bloody
Bay on the Caribbean Sea side, through the forests at
Roxborough and along the coastal road past Scarborough,
to finish at Little Rockly Bay (the Atlantic Ocean side).
www.seatoseamarathon.com
The annual arrival of Dragon Boat racers took on another
level with Pigeon Point hosting the Pan American Club
Crew Championships. The international flavour was also
present at October’s Tobago Cycling Classic, with five days
of varied racing culminating in USA’s Scott McGill taking
the overall title. The event, like the Rainbow Cup, also
offers racing for all categories of cyclists beyond the elite
athletes, making it a bucket list item for riders across the
globe. www.trinbagowheelers.com
These mainstays on the calendar ensure that the
island fulfils its international sporting potential but it’s
the opportunity that Tobago offers everyone - to golf on
landscaped seafront courses, windsurf across clear waters
or play tennis in an ultramodern facility such as Shaw Park
- that is the real action attraction of this island.

LEFT FROM THE TOP

Great Race
Massy Rainbow Cup

INSET
Surfing
Photos: Richard Lyder

RIGHT
Wind Surfing
Photo: Edison Boodoosingh

SECTION NAME HERE  159 INS &

 Dragon Boat
Racing in T&T By Sheldon Waithe

The exceptional backdrop that is Pigeon Point Heritage Park

served as the host with a difference for the 2019 Pan American
Club Crew Championships. The event - deemed a major success
- was the icing on the cake for local Dragon Boat racing, which
has become extremely popular across all ages in T&T, with
events ranging from the Excellent Stores Inter School Regatta
to San Fernando’s annual Independence Day festival.
With over 1,000 visitors and 41 teams taking part, competition
was fierce, espousing the Dragon Boat racing virtues of team
work, strength in numbers and perseverance. The crucial support
from the likes of Caribbean Airlines and the Tobago House of
Assembly emphasized those same qualities, that stakeholders
working in cohesion can produce a global standard event.
Concerns about the lack of flat water - a staple for Dragon
Boat racing - subsided with the first glimpse of Pigeon Point: well
Tobago does have that effect. President of the Pan American
Dragon Boat Federation, Franco Siu Chong, said that “This has
been an amazing tournament. All the visiting participants loved
the facilities, the sun, sand and sea. The boats are exceptional
and ideal to navigate Tobago’s waters. They have withstood the
conditions”.
Rising to the occasion, Tobago’s very own team, Oceanus,
used home advantage to take three golds, four silvers and a
bronze medal while the ubiquitous Aquaholics represented
Trinidad with a bronze in the open final.
The sport’s infrastructure remains solid, with a full domestic
calendar, participation in global events and the considerable
advantage of strong high school participation to whet the
appetite for competition and make the regattas and festivals
true family events. Throw in the considerable support of the
private and public sectors and Dragon Boat racing in T&T will
continue its growth, with everyone pulling in the same direction.

Photos: Wendell Nana-Moore - Fresh Flashbooth

INS & 160 SECTION NAME HERE

OUTS
SPORTS calendar
february
16-17
SCARBOROUGH CUP GOLF
Plantations, Tobago
TOBAGO CARNIVAL REGATTA

march
7-8
TTGFA WAHOO TOURNAMENT

october
31-4 APR
MARLIN MADNESS TOURNAMENT

may
13-16 NATIONAL SURFING
ANR TOBAGO REGATTA
CHAMPIONSHIPS
13-16 Photo: Richard Lyder

SEA TO SEA MARATHON

Bloody Bay & Scarborough

june july
13 12-16
TOBAGO MOTOR RALLY
RAINBOW CUP
Grafton
INTERNATIONAL TRIATHLON
Grafton, Tobago

25 august
TOBAGO DRAGON
BOAT FESTIVAL 22
Pigeon Point, Tobago THE TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
www.facebook.com/pg/TTDBF/ Photo: Shaun Rambaran GREAT RACE
community/ Race begins at 6:00 a.m.
off the Foreshore,
finishes in Store Bay, Tobago,
www.ttpba.net

october
STORE BAY OPEN WATER
SWIMMING CLASSIC
Tobago

NATIONAL SURFING
CHAMPIONSHIPS
Mt. Irvine, Tobago

november
BAGO BEACH FOOTBALL
INTERNATIONAL

Photo: Richard Lyder

SPORTS  161 INS &

stay in style
Photo: Christopher Anderson
 Blue Waters Inn
(868) 660-4341, (868) 660-2583
Batteaux Bay, Speyside, Tobago, West Indies
bwi@bluewatersinn.com | www.bluewatersinn.com

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

Magdalena Grand Beach

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

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

Miller’s Guest House

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

Overlooking unspoilt Buccoo Bay, Miller’s Guest House has fully-airconditioned,

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

INS & 164 STAY IN STYLE

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

Sunspree Resort delights guests with luxurious accommodation, gourmet dining,

and close proximity to some of Tobago’s exotic beaches. The resort is five min-
utes’ walk from the ANR Robinson International Airport. This Caribbean getaway
boasts 19 rooms, each offering a view of either our garden or our swimming pool.
Different room and suite categories accommodate families of all sizes. We offer
free Wi-Fi.
Sunspree Resort is suitable for those who crave action and adventure, those
interested in relaxation, or even those who are looking for romance. We even
provide an idyllic paradise where all your wedding and honeymoon dreams can
come true. TRIPADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE 2013 WINNER!

Crown Point Beach Hotel

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

Set on seven acres of beautifully landscaped grounds overlooking Store Bay, one
of Tobago’s finest beaches. Within walking distance of the airport and the well-
known Pigeon Point beach.
Accommodation comprises studios, cabanas and one-bedroom apartments. All
rooms have an ocean view, kitchenette, bathroom, hair dryer, cable television and
telephone. The poolside restaurant and bar caters for all your food and beverage
requirements.
Recreational facilities include swimming pool, tennis courts, table tennis and
shuffleboard, and there are free Internet facilities for our guests. From our
grounds you can walk down steps that lead to Store Bay beach.

Plantation Beach Villas

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

Located on Tobago’s Caribbean coast, the six well-appointed three-bedroom

villas, fashioned in classical turn-of-the-century colonial architecture, are nestled
in a grove of tropical trees, on a gently sloping hillside overlooking the palm-
fringed Grafton Beach. The emphasis is on elegant comfort amidst the serenity
of nature. Each villa is fitted with all the modern amenities and your own villa
attendant. The resort is ideal for a family holiday, reunion or an intimate wedding.
Our ‘family’ of friendly staff and the ambiance and warmth we provide assure a
taste of paradise.

INS & 166 STAY IN STYLE

OUTS
STAY IN STYLE  167 INS &
 Johnston Apartments
(868) 639-8915, 631-5160 (TOBAGO)
(868) 627-1927 (POS) | (868) 631-5112 (Fax)
Store Bay, Tobago, West Indies
johnapt.tt@gmail.com | www.johnstonapartments.com

The Johnston Apartments in Tobago are magnificently located on Store Bay

Beach, moments away from Crown Point International Airport, nightclubs, shop-
ping and the island’s best food. This vacation destination is ideal in every way.
You can relax and unwind in our spacious one-bedroom apartments overlooking
the sea. Each room is fully air-conditioned and self-contained, complete with a
modern kitchen. Cleaning services are provided daily. Whilst staying at Johnston
Apartments, you have the use of Crown Point Beach Hotel’s pool, restaurant,
tennis court and conference facilities. The natural and man-made wonders will
make your stay unforgettable.

Petit Point Cottage

At Tobago Plantations

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

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

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

Surf Side Hotel

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

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

INS & 168 STAY IN STYLE

OUTS
Kariwak Village Hotel
(868) 639-8442
Store Bay Local Road, Crown Point, Tobago
info@kariwak.com
www.kariwak.com

Renowned for its warmth and charm, Kariwak has been a beloved home away
from home for nationals and visitors alike for over 35 years. Cosy rooms are nes-
tled in lush, peaceful gardens and tucked in around the ozonated, chlorine-free
pool. The Kariwak Village Restaurant serves delicious meals with love every
day. Morning yoga classes are held in the stunning open-air ajoupa and a range
of massage treatments are available on-site by appointment. Hammocks and a
jacuzzi in the garden and a variety of community events and wellness retreats
throughout the year provide endless opportunities to relax, restore and recon-
nect, mind, body and soul, on your own or with family and friends.
Come home to yourself; come home to Kariwak!

Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort Ltd

(868) 639-8512-3; (868) 639-9605 (Fax)
Crown Point, Tobago, W.I.
(868) 671-9143, 671-0631; (868) 665-9236 (Fax)
Administration Office: 78–79 La Clave Street,
Lange Park, Chaguanas, Trinidad, W.I.
tropikistbeachhotelresort@gmail.com | www.tropikist.com

Amazing, fun filled vacations begin at Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort. Nestled on
five acres of exquisitely landscaped property, it offers a captivating view of the
coastline and warmly welcomes you to the warmth of island life. Its LOCATION
on the south-western side of the island in the Crown Point area, five minutes
away from ANR Robinson International Airport, and 10 minutes from beaches,
historical sites and other amenities is unmatched. ACTIVITIES include diving, hik-
ing, swimming, and relaxing spa treatments. Facilities comprise two restaurants,
two pools – a free-form pool with a children’s pool, and a diving pool – and a
Jacuzzi. Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort ... Your Tropical Destination.

STAY IN STYLE  169 INS &

restaurants
 AQUA
Blue Waters Inn
(868) 660-4341
Batteaux Bay, Speyside, Tobago
reservations@bluewatersinn.com
www.bluewatersinn.com
AQUA is located in the eco-chic resort, Blue
Waters Inn, in Speyside, Tobago. AQUA
offers breakfast, lunch and dinner with an
intimate view of the dazzling turquoise
waters of Batteaux Bay. Enjoy an inclusive
day with us; take a dip in the infiniti pool
or stroll our beach with a fresh cocktail in
hand, and finish with a mouthwatering lunch
on the beachfront deck. In the evening,
we transform into an exquisite dining
experience, where you can choose to savour
our fresh and fabulous menu under the stars,
or seated in our elegant indoor space.
We cater for weddings & special events.
sample menu $$
Batteaux Bay Shrimp Salad
Tuna Tartar
Sizzling Mango Chicken Fajitas
Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Cedar Plank Salmon
Lobster Baja Tacos
Crab and Dumpling
opening hours opening hours opening hours
Breakfast: 7:30 am – 10:00 am
Lunch: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Bar snacks: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Dinner: 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm
INS & 172 RESTAURANTS
OUTS
Café Coco
(868) 639-0996 (Reservations)
(868) 639-8574 (Fax)
First left off Pigeon Point Road,
Crown Point, Tobago
reservations@cafe-coco.biz
www.cocoreef.com
Café Coco is the most spectacular restaurant
and bar in the region, with seating for 200.
It features waterfalls, fountains, marble
bathrooms and hand-painted tiles, all
synchronised to create an exotic atmosphere
of charm and beauty amidst impeccable
landscaping. Our chefs, from their open
kitchen, offer a wide range of reasonably
priced dishes, carefully selected to excite
every palate. We offer a perfect venue for
weddings, graduations, birthday parties and
other group functions.
Available for Dinner.
sample menu $-$$
Rack of baby back pork ribs
Duo of grilled chicken breast & leg
Papa John Shrimp Linguini
Surf & Turf
Local Road Coco Pizza
Vegetable pasta
Waterfront grilled fish
Mon–Sun: 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm
The Pasta Gallery
(868) 727-8200 (PASTA-00)
Pigeon Point Road,
Crown Point, Tobago
Superbly located on the way to Pigeon
Point, The Pasta Gallery features a unique
fusion of restaurant and art gallery. Start
with a refreshing salad or crispy bruschetta,
then savour homemade sauce simmered to
perfection over a hearty serving of pasta.
While enjoying the ‘trattoria’ experience,
don’t forget to take in the local art that
surrounds you. Come and relax in our cool
yet cosy atmosphere and relish the simple art
of good food. Feel free to call ahead to place
your takeaway order.
Dine in, Takeaway, Bar.
sample menu $
Tomato bruschetta
Italian meat & cheese platter
Lobster ravioli
Baked meat lasagne
Gluten free & whole wheat pastas available
Chicken/shrimp/mixed seafood/veg alfredo
Linguine al Pesto
Shrimp marinara
Tiramisu, cheesecake
Gelato
Thu – Mon: 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Tue & Wed: Closed
Kali’na Restaurant Pembois Restaurant Salaka Grill
Caribbean Fusion & Terrace Ocean Front &
Upscale Dining All Day Dining Pool-side Restaurant
Main Restaurant
(868) 660-8500; (868) 660-8503 (Fax) (868) 660-8500; (868) 660-8503 (Fax)
Tobago Plantations Estate, Lowlands, Tobago (868) 660-8500; (868) 660-8503 (Fax) Tobago Plantations Estate, Lowlands, Tobago
info@magdalenagrand.com Tobago Plantations Estate, Lowlands, Tobago info@magdalenagrand.com
www.magdalenagrand.com info@magdalenagrand.com www.magdalenagrand.com
www.magdalenagrand.com
Discover the unique Caribbean Fusion cuisine Salaka offers a delicious selection of pizza,
in an upscale and romantic environment Each morning we feature an all-you-can-eat salads, grilled fish, and meat or vegetarian
in one of the top restaurants in Trinidad breakfast buffet. The menu changes daily, so dishes for a relaxing lunch poolside,
and Tobago. The chef features traditional you will enjoy different hot items every day overlooking the ocean. At night, Salaka Grill
Caribbean or Creole recipes prepared in a or choose eggs made to order. It’s the most turns into a romantic seafood grill with a
modern European way, as well as dishes popular breakfast on the island. Pembois is catch of the day and seafood pasta, along
from all over the world, refined with exotic also open daily for lunch and dinner. with seafood tapas and antipasto. Try our
Caribbean ingredients. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner homemade pizzas.
We’re open only for dinner. Lunch & Dinner
sample menu $$
sample menu $$ sample menu $$
Salads
Starters Pineapple Shrimp Fry Starters
Caesar Salad Flying Fish & Ochro Bruschetta
Mini Crab Cakes Platters & Specialties Crispy Calamari
Smoked Salmon Calamari, Octopus
Pork Kebab Mussels, Pepper Shrimp Italian Bar & Grill – Build your pasta dish
Main Course Meats & Fish We’ll then cook it to perfection
Pork Tenderloin Fish & Coconut Bake using the ingredients you selected
Pan Seared Chicken Breast Ginger Chicken Pasta: Fettuccini, Spaghetti, Gluten Free
New York Striploin Steak Curry Seafood & Dumpling Vegetables: Broccoli, Eggplant, Mushroom
Pan Seared Local Catch of the Day Desserts Meats: Crispy Bacon, Steak, Shrimp
Blackened Salmon Chef’s Assorted Desserts
Desserts
Fruit Salad
Chocolate Cake
Cheesecake

RESTAURANTS  173 INS &

 Luvinia’s Seafood The Seahorse Inn Anchor Bar & Grill
& Steak Restaurant Restaurant & Bar
(868) 660-5687
(868) 631-1349 / 767-9574 (868) 639-0686
Mt. Irvine Beach Facility, Black Rock,
Miller’s Guesthouse Grafton Beach Road, Stonehaven Bay,
Tobago, West Indies
#14 Miller Street, Buccoo Point, Black Rock, Tobago, West Indies
anchorbarandgrill.tobago@gmail.com
Tobago, West Indies seahorseinntobago@gmail.com
luvinias@outlook.com www.seahorseinntobago.com
Tobago’s #1 beachfront restaurant and
bar, with a breathtaking food and cocktail
Tobago’s No. 1 beachfront restaurant, with Intimate alfresco beach-side dining under the
menu to choose from. Anchor Bar and Grill
excellent food and a fantastic view. Sit back, stars. Award-winning food and service, an
gives each customer the opportunity to
relax, converse and watch the sun rise and exceptional wine list, extensive bar selection,
experience a taste of paradise while enjoying
set over Buccoo Bay. Our professional staff in a romantic tropical setting. Regularly
the amazing sunset. Come try some of our
will cater to your every need. Try one of featured in the international media. Regarded
signature cocktails, each of which cocktail is
our refreshing cocktails on the sun terrace. as Tobago’s premier dining experience and
named after a significant tourist attraction on
Sample the delicious fresh seafood in our a “must do” whilst on the island. Make a
our island, one being the reef pack or Nylon
open-air restaurant, and enjoy the catch of reservation, go early in your visit as you
Pool.
the day from the local fisherman at the jetty will want to return. Also great for viewing
Free Wi-Fi, great customer service; we
in front of the restaurant. nesting leatherback turtles between March
also cater to small intimate dinners such as
Free Wi-Fi access, Breakfast, Lunch and and September. We cater for Receptions,
birthdays and anniversaries.
Dinner, Bar and Takeaway. Available for Weddings & Functions, both on and off
premises.
Functions. sample menu $
sample menu $$-$$$ sample menu $$$
Anchor Burger
Pine & Ginger Pork
Spiced Fried Calamari
Starters Sweet & Sour Chicken
Tuna Ceviche
Traditional Ceviche Chicken Tenders
Duck Rillets
Fosforera Grilled/Fried Chicken Sandwich
Mixed Vegetable Antipasti
Shrimp Tarragon Anchor Deep Net platter
Lobster Thermidor
Main Course Sides
Crab-stuffed Grouper Fillet
Lobster A La Española Parsley Potatoes
Pineapple-glazed Duck Breast
House Special Potato Salad
Tenderloin & Rib Eye Steaks
Luvinia’s Grilled Fish Macaroni Salad
Shrimps Mornay
Miller’s Lamb
Rack of Lamb
opening hours
opening hours
opening hours
Daily: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Tue–Sun: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Daily for dinner: 5:30 pm – 10.30 pm

INS & 174 RESTAURANTS

OUTS
Kariwak Village
Restaurant
(868) 639-8442
Store Bay Local Road, Crown Point, Tobago
info@kariwak.com
www.kariwak.com
Opened in 1982, Kariwak is a cosy green
oasis of a hotel with an absolutely fantastic
restaurant known for its creative use of
herbs straight from the on-site garden.
Everything is freshly prepared from scratch,
from the rum punch bursting with fresh
lime and passion fruit to the rosemary garlic
focaccia served at the weekend buffet
dinners. Breakfast is a delight of local fruit,
homemade yogurt, Tobago cocoa and
traditional hot breakfast favourites. Kariwak’s
lunch and dinner menus are set daily based
on what is freshly available, with salads and
sandwiches also served throughout the day.
Live jazz on Friday and Saturday nights.
sample menu $$
Pumpkin soup with fresh dill
Garden greens with roasted sunflower seeds
Fresh fish poached in a coconut herb sauce
Homemade peppermint ice cream
Kariwak spice tea (ginger, bayleaf &
cinnamon)
opening hours opening hours
Breakfast: 7:30 am – 10:00 am
Lunch: 12:30 pm – 2.30 pm
Dinner: 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Tropikist Hotel
Restaurants
(868) 639-8512/8513
Store Bay Road,
Crown Point, Tobago
tropikistbeachhotelresort@gmail.com
tropikist.com
At Tropikist, enjoy your dining experience
at any of our two restaurants; Bayside
Restaurant and Sunset Restaurant, Bar
& Grill. Perfectly located with the most
breathtaking view of the ocean, which adds
to the already amazing ambiance when
dining. Choose from our delectable buffet
breakfast or from our à la carte lunch and
dinner menus. We offer a range of both
local and foreign foods, drinks and cocktails,
deliciously created with our unique tastes
and flavours. Barbeque nights are a must to
experience, as our Chefs’ scrumptous dishes
are done to perfection. Come join us, let us
serve you;exceptional service guaranteed.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
sample menu $$
Pan Seared Cajun Spiced Mahi Mahi
Tropikist Home Styled Chicken/Beef Burgers
Crispy spiced chicken sandwiches
Vegetable wraps (House Special)
Breakfast: 7:30 am – 10:00 am
Lunch: Noon – 3:00 pm
Dinner: 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Bar hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Z’s Grill Shack
(868) 362-2605
Pleasant Prospect, Black Rock,
Tobago, W.I.
zsgrillshack.tt@gmail.com
Come and enjoy a lovely lunch or dinner
at Z’s Grill Shack. Our exquisite wooden
design sets the perfect ambience for hanging
out with friends and family. Our meats are
always well prepared and perfectly done,
served with our delicious sides. We always
offer great service, well timed delivery
of food with smiles and good chats. Our
prices are always reasonable for dinner or
lunch services. Whether you’re looking for
somewhere to eat in or taking away, be sure
to visit Z’s Grill Shack.
sample menu $
Meats:
Grilled Steak | Lamb
Grilled Chicken BBQ Style
Grilled Jumbo Shrimp | Snapper
Grilled Catch of the day | Lobster
Sides: Mixed rice, red beans,
potato salad, fresh salad
Dessert:
Locally made ice creams
opening hours
Mon: – Fri: Noon – till
Sat: 2:00 pm – till
Sun: Closed
RESTAURANTS  175 INS &
 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 Time Zone Banking

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.
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 Paula-Mae Weekes,
Head of Government: Prime Minister,
Dr. Keith Christopher Rowley.
Leader of the
Tobago House of Assembly:
Chief Secretary,
The Honourable Kelvin Charles.
http://www.ttconnect.gov.tt/gortt/portal/
ttconnect
https://www.otp.tt;
http://www.opm.gov.tt/
http://www.tha.gov.tt/
Number of Commercial Banks: 8
Prime Lending Rate: 9.0%
(October 2017 estimate)
Bank Hours of Operation:
City Centres – Monday to Thursday
– 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
Friday – 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
& 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
RBC and Scotiabank (not mall branches)
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
8 RBC Branches
open on Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bank Hours of Operation:
Shopping Centres
– 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Exchange Rate:
TTD 6.74: USD 1 (October 2017)
Meeting Places and Conference Centres
Trinidad and Tobago is one of the top
five Caribbean meeting and conference
destinations. T&T is host to over 84,000
business travellers annually.
Business Hours
Offices: Monday to Friday
8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Government Offices:
Monday to Friday – 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
(City Centres):
Monday to Friday – 8:00 am to 4:30 pm;
Saturday – 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
Retail (Shopping Centres):
Monday to Saturday
10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Photo: Stephen Broadbridge

INS & 176 FAST FACTS ON TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

OUTS
 Photo: Stephen Broadbridge
Telecommunications
International Access and Area
Code: 1-868 Trinidad and Tobago’s
telecommunications sector has shown
strong growth. TSTT provides both
landline and mobile telephone services,
Digicel home phone and mobile
telephone services and FLOW landline
services. International direct distance
dialing is available nationwide. With
broad coverage throughout the islands,
mobile phones are an easy option.
Wireless Internet services are readily
available at hotels and cybercafés.
https://tatt.org.tt/
Immigration, Work Permits and Visas
Visitors to Trinidad and Tobago must
possess valid passports and return or
ongoing tickets for successful entry.
Most Commonwealth countries do not
require visas for entry, except Australia,
New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New
Guinea, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Cameroon,
Fiji Islands, Mozambique, Uganda
and South Africa. For business travel
and vacations lasting 90 days or less
(within a 180-day period) European
Union citizens do not need visas for
entry. The same applies for nationals
from non- European Union Schengen
countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway
and Switzerland). Holders of CARICOM
passports, with the exception of Haiti, do
not require visas. Visitors from several
other countries are allowed to enter
Trinidad and Tobago for periods of up to
three months without a visa.
http://www.immigration.gov.tt/
Work permits are required for business
stays beyond 30 days. Visa extensions
can be obtained from the Immigration
Office at 67 Frederick Street, Port
of Spain, while work permits can be
obtained from the Ministry of
National Security, Temple Court II,
52-60 Abercromby Street, Port of Spain.
www.nationalsecurity.gov.tt
Transportation
Airports – Piarco International Airport
is located about 45 minutes from the
capital city, Port of Spain. It plays
an important role as a vital hub for
international air traffic in the Caribbean.
There are non-stop daily scheduled
flights to and from major international
cities.
Trinidad and Tobago’s national airline,
Caribbean Airlines, serves Toronto, New
York, Miami, Jamaica, Saint Maarten,
Antigua, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago,
Guyana and Suriname. International
and regional airlines that fly to Trinidad
and Tobago include American Airlines,
British Airways, Caribbean Airlines,
United Airlines, West Jet, JetBlue, LIAT
and several charter flight companies.
International flights are also available
direct from Tobago’s ANR Robinson
International Airport. Airlines that
fly directly to Tobago include British
Airways, Condor and Monarch.
http://www.tntairports.com/
Major Airlines
Piarco Airport
American Airlines 1 (868) 821-6000
Caribbean Airlines 1 (868) 625-7200
British Airways 1 (800) 247-9297
Copa Airlines 1 (868) 669-5189
LIAT 1 (800) 669-2982
Surinam Airways 1 (868) 627-0102
United Airlines 1 (800) 864-8331
West Jet Airlines 1 (888) 937-8538
1 (888) WESTJET
JetBlue 1 (800) 538-2583
Rutaca 1 (868) 625-4324
ANR Robinson Airport
Virgin Atlantic 1 (800) 744-7477
Condor and Thomas
Cook Group Airlines 1 (868) 639-5201
British Airways. 1 (800) 247-9297
The following airlines/flights are
sometimes scheduled to operate during
peak periods.
Air Canada Rouge 1 (868) 623-2721
LASER Airlines laser.com.ve
INSEL Air fly-inselair.com
Conviasa Airlines 1 (868) 627-8172/6078
Seaports
The main seaports are located in Port of
Spain and Point Lisas. The Port of Port
of Spain handles dry and general cargo,
break bulk, containers and passenger
traffic. The Point Lisas Industrial
Port Development Corporation Ltd.
(PLIPDECO), mainly a bulk port for
industrial commerce, also handles
container and general cargo traffic.
There are ferries travelling the inter-
island route daily.
Port of Spain Ferry: (868) 625-3055
Tobago Ferry: (868) 639-2417
The CARICOM Jetty, which is located at
the Port of Port of Spain and operates
the passenger inter-island ferry, receives,
stores and delivers CARICOM cargo and
multipurpose containers for trade within
the Caribbean region. A water taxi ferry
FAST FACTS ON TRINIDAD & TOBAGO  177
connects Port of Spain and San
Fernando. Scheduled sailing times are
Monday to Friday. Tickets cost TT$15
one-way and can be purchased at the
Water Taxi Terminal located at Flat
Rock, Lady Hailes Avenue, San Fernando
or the Cruise Ship Complex, Port of
Spain. Free parking is available at
both ports. There is a Public Transport
Service Corporation (PTSC) shuttle
service, which costs TT$3 through the
city of Port of Spain. For further
information, visit: www.nidco.co.tt or
call 624-3281/ 674-5593 (POS) or 800-
4WTS (San Fernando).
Public Utilities
Electricity
Trinidad and Tobago has a reliable
supply of electricity with rates still
among the lowest in the Caribbean.
The domestic and commercial
supply voltage is 110/220 volts, 60
cycles. The Trinidad and Tobago
Electricity Commission (T&TEC) is the
agencyresponsible for the country’s
electrical supply. http://www.ttec.co.tt/
Water
The Water and Sewerage Authority of
Trinidad and Tobago (WASA), a state
enterprise, is the sole provider of water
and wastewater services in Trinidad and
Tobago. http://www.wasa.gov.tt/
Post/Courier Services
Regular mail, express mail and courier
delivery are reliable and available from
local provider TTPost at excellent
rates. International courier services are
efficient and readily available.
http://www.ttpost.net/
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
INS &
 Index
519 Restaurant & Bar.......................................... 126
Acajou Hotel................................................84 & 124
Adam's Bagels & Speciality Breads............. 116
Amazing Properties...............................................91
Anchor Bar & Grill.................................................174
Angostura............................................104, 105 & 53
Angostura Museum...............................................53
Annie's Mandarine Restaurant & Lounge.122
Aqua Restaurant....................................................172
Art de Joulie..............................................................41
Asa Wright Nature Centre.................................57
Batch Caribbean Limited...................................38
Beacon.........................................................................63
Blue Waters Inn...............................164, 165 & 172
Burger King...............................................................121
Café Coco..................................................................172
Caffe del Mar...........................................................127
Capil's and Co. Ltd.................................................37
Cara Suites Hotel &
Conference Centre................................ 86 & 87
Caribbean Discovery Tours Ltd.......................57
Caribbean Estates, Land & Villas..................149
Cazabon Wine & Cocktail Bar.......................... 17
Centro Restaurant................................................ 126
Chaquacabana Resort & Beach Club............91
CHAUD........................................................................ 119
Coco Reef Resort and Spa ................167 & 172
Courtin.........................................................................47
Courtyard By Marriott.....................88, 89 & 126
Crews Inn Hotel and
Yachting Centre..................................... 88 & 127
Crown Point Beach Hotel....................166 & 169
Dachin Group of Companies............ 13, 101, 151
Ducky’s Ortoire Organic
Roast Seafood (DOORS)............................. 123
Dufry.............................................................................37
Econo Car Rentals Ltd.........................................67
El Pecos Grill..............................................................81
Excellent Stores.......................................................39
FarmaVita...................................................................47
FENS – Furniture Land South & Central....39
Fernandes Fine Wines.......................................... 17
Fiesta Plaza.....................................................101 & 13
Finesse Yacht Charters........................................57
First Citizens..................................................78 & 79
Five Islands Water & Amusement Park....103
Flavours Restaurant............................................ 124
GCG Events................................................................81
Germaine De Capuccini......................................47
Glamorgan Events...................................................81
Golden Palace Chinese Restaurant............. 125
Hakka Restaurant & Bar..........................118 & 119
Healing with Horses Foundation ................. 141
Herbs & Spices.......................................................120
Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre...........86
INS & 178 INDEX
OUTS
Himchuli Restaurant.............................................127
Homework Design Studio............... 74, 75 & 76
Hyatt Regency Trinidad..........84, 85, 46 & 112
Inna Citi Place Bed & Breakfast.......................91
Ins & Outs of
Trinidad & Tobago........... Inside Front Cover
Irie Bites..................................................................... 123
Island Beer Chill & Grill.................... ……..116 & 117
Island Experiences.................................................57
Jackie Hinkson.........................................................42
Jaxx International Grill ……......................114 & 115
Johnston Apartments........................................ 168
Kali'na Restaurant................................................. 173
Kapok Hotel................................................. 88 & 120
Kariwak Village Hotel............................ 169 & 175
Kariwak Village Restaurant..............................175
KAVA...........................................................................120
Kyawana Shaw-Abraham......................................2
Le Grand Almandier............................................. 90
La Petit Fleur Tea Shop..................................... 125
Light House Restaurant.....................................127
Lime Inn Restaurant............................................ 124
Little Caesars Pizza...............................................121
Look Opticians.........................................................37
Luvinia’s Seafood & Steak Restaurant........174
Luxury Finishes Design Centre.......................75
Magdalena Grand Beach
& Golf Resort..................................... 1, 164 & 173
Malabar Meats Gourmet.....................................38
Mi Casa Fine Home Furnishings...................... 17
Miller's Guest House............................................164
More Sushi..................................................................112
More Vino...................................................................112
Morsels....................................................................... 125
Morsheads Gourmet Foods..............................151
MovieTowne............................................... 13, 101, 151
MovieTowne Tobago.............................................151
Nichossa Restaurant........................................... 124
Nova Lighting...........................................................75
Par-May-La's Inn.................................................... 90
Parts World Limited..............................................75
Pembois Restaurant & Terrace...................... 173
Peter Sheppard....................................................... 40
Petit Point Cottage ............................................ 168
Planet Ceramic........................................... 150 & 151
Plantation Beach Villas......................... 166 & 167
Popeyes Restaurant..............................................121
R.T. Morshead Ltd...................................................151
Randall Waddell................................... 74, 75 & 76
Regent Star Hotel......................................... 89, 124
Republic Bank Limited (RBL)...............72 & 73
Residence at Tradewinds....................... Outside
Back Cover
Restaurant Holdings..............................................121
Rizzoni's Ristorante Italiano.................. 112 & 113
RoSemary Hadeed....................................................2
Royal Hotel..................................................... 86 & 87
Salaka Grill Ocean
Front and Pool Restaurant.......................... 173
Salt N' Pepper Classical Indian Cuisine...... 114
SeaJade Investments..........................................149
Samurai Sushi Bar & Steakhouse......116 & 117
Shades Designs Ltd...............................................75
Signature Selection...............................................37
Smokey Joe's.......................................................... 123
Soong's Great Wall............................……..118 & 119
Spa Esencia.............................................................. 46
Stand Up Paddle................................................... 147
Sundeck Suites....................................................... 90
Sunspree Resort Ltd...........................................166
Surf Side Hotel....................................................... 168
Taryn's The Panyol Place.................................. 122
Texas de Brazil.............................................114 & 115
The Angostura Barcant
& Butterfly Collection.......................................53
The Bungalow Restaurant & Lounge......... 126
The Cannons Hotels............................................. 90
The Centro Restaurant...................................... 126
The Courtyard by Marriott........... 78, 110 & 126
The Dreamy Creamy
Ice Cream Company........................................ 118
The Face and Body Clinic Limited................47
The House of Angostura.......................... 53, 105
The National Gas Company of
Trinidad & Tobago (NGC)..................98 & 99
The Normandie Hotel...........................................89
The Pasta Gallery...................................................172
The Seahorse Inn Restaurant & Bar.............174
THINKARTWORKTT Studio...............................41
Tiki Village................................................................120
Tile Warehouse........................................................75
Tobago Tourism Agency Limited................. 128
Tomley Roberts........................................................41
Tourism Trinidad Ltd...........Inside Back Cover,
Map
Tradewinds Hotel & Conference Centre.... 84
& Outside Back Cover
Trinidad and Tobago Tourist Transport
Service Association (T&TTTSA)..................67
Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort Ltd.169 & 175
Tropikist Hotel Restaurants..............................175
TT RideShare............................................................67
Villas Are Us Ltd...................................................149
Vintage Imports Wine Merchants..........34, 36
VIP Platinum Cinema & Lounge..............101, 13
Waterfront Restaurant.........................................112
WHIPPED.................................................................. 122
Z's Grill Shack..........................................................175
Zip-Itt Adventure Tours.......................................59
ZM Executive Transport......................................67