St. Peter’s Day

ST PETERS DAY

This weekend saw the Christian world over celebrate the 29th of June as the birthday of  Peter the fisherman and former Apostle to Jesus. This  is met with much anticipation on the Trinidad and Tobago isles of fete and frivolity! The Seafood Industry Development Company boasts that the local marine fisheries sector in 2005 contributed TT$ 63 million to the country’s Gross Domestic Product. There are 67 landing sites in Trinidad and 32 in Tobago. It is without a doubt that  episcopal church services in the Roman Catholic communities as well as its denominations continued this year with fishermen receiving their blessing from the parishes.  However, this year a 30 foot statue of Saint Peter was unveiled at newly named St. Peter’s Square in Moruga. After all Saint Peter is the patron saint of the fishermen so some recognition was definitely long overdue.

Statue

In addition, hundreds of islanders of all races and religions still turned out to the  festivities at the shores and bays of fishing villages island wide for beach parties, fun activities, delectable fish and food! The fishing village of Cedros in the south western peninsula of Trinidad is famous for this particular fete. People from all over the island come to Manmohansingh Park at St. Marie village in Cedros. The crowd thickens every year with cars lining the streets, vendors setting up shop and Dj’s on the beach hosting the inaugural “fishermen fete” Other parts of the island like Carenage had their annual cultural presentations, fish broths and danced away with frivolity, gaiety and unity. Maracas Bay is also known for its parties and their annual fishing boat race to the shores . This was another favourite this year.

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So next time you journey to the island be sure to participate in the free fun filled fisherman’s fete! You’ll be grateful!

Jhagi bhai- An Indian Arrival Day Reflection

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So they arrived in 1845 on the Nelson Island

Some of them came heavy with burden

seeking a new life

one that would save them from strife

They left India

they ventured to foreign land

Trinidad and Tobago estate Mainland

Indentured 1845-1917

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A new life they did start here

Today we have roti, curry and phlourie

Indian sweets like barfi and jalebi

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Festival of Colour

spraying of abeer says “Phagwa”

Festival of light

And the biggest Indian heritage site

Divali Nagar

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Beside a 85ft Hanuman Murti

and the old Temple by the sea

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the Indians brought their fashion

that is more visible for all to see

Indian expos and regular boutiques bring sari and shalwar

but Trinidad and Tobago’s House of Jaipur creates their own

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With a song in their heart and the beat of the people

Tassa drums and Indian classical

Mungal Patasar and Shiv Shakti dance group

The evolution of Ravi B, Rikki Jai and JMC Triveni

Chutney Bacchanal right here in Trini!

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Oh yes! They really did it!

They contributed more than a language of Hindi, film and caricature

their inherent religion of Hinduism as well

They brought a culture

and they imparted their knowledge

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Today we celebrate

A nation that has been rebirth

an Independent nation

free from indenture

Joining our brothers and sisters as one unit

one people

Our beautiful Trinidad and Tobago!

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Tastebud Spa Treatment – Yogurtland!!!

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“Those of you with the sweet tooth would know what I’m talking about here even my health fanatics. On a sweltering day in tropical heaven  or a gloomy and overcast day there’s one place where the anticipation of  “do it yourself” means much more! Be enlightened with a ‘taste bud spa treatment’ at Yogurtland!”

I was having one of those bittersweet moments you know the one where you are strung out, caught up and just don’t know what to do when I decided to try something this new dessert place called Yogurtland! Immediately I felt transformed stepping into the quarters of Yogurtland with happy vibes emanating from their pretty painted walls, chairs and the overall aesthetics. It’s not overkill it’s perfect; clean look, nice smell and just calling out my inner happiness! I was welcomed by what seemed to be my personal butler who escorted me to the yogurt machines and briefed me on flavours and textures and toppings and purchase via weight. There’s even a special promotion where if your yogurt weighs 10 ounces on a Tuesday you get it free!

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Of course I tried everything! It was so thrilling to create my own yogurt cup and weigh it with the anticipation of hoping to reach that 10 ounce scale! I had some mango, banana and some strawberry shortcake. My friend had cheesecake, cookies n cream and chocolate! I was overjoyed to spend quality time with her. I love Yogurtland because it is fantastic for sharing chit chat with family and friends! We raced to the scale and we were one ounce away from the prize! We decided to fill our cup again and weighed in but we were one ounce over the top! Nevertheless, it was some good yogurt with the milky flavours like chocolate being simply decadent  and the fruity flavors being light and sweet. I reveled at the fact that eating so many different flavours did not leave a bad after taste nor did it make me feel queasy! Undoubtedly, it changed my mood and I almost changed my name to Bliss because it evoked pure contentment!

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Thank you Yogurtland you certainly fulfilled my expectations and even a little more.

You will forever have a special place in my heart for making Trinidad and Tobago relish in this new experience of healthy eating without guilty feelings!

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xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago!

REPRESENT!

lgttlady

Destination Wedding- Trinidad & Tobago

         Destination Trinidad & Tobago

Fantasizing about the big day again, your dream wedding, the most memorable day of your life, the talk of the town? Ooh! Think Destination Weddings; a celebrity trend, exotic ecstasy, tropical allure and affordable extravaganza in sweet Trinidad and Tobago! Destination Weddings where true love is only a heartbeat away. Your happily ever after begins here. Where dreams come true & matrimonial bliss is heaven sent. What are you waiting for? Bring your love and come…

Where: Let’s go Trinidad and Tobago

Far away in the West Indies there lies the southernmost twin island state of Trinidad and Tobago. Undeniably, Trinidad is the “Manhattan” of the Caribbean stimulating international business investment in public and private sectors. Tobago is more laid back but the idyllic dream of a corporate paradise with little to zero hassle or hustle.  The energy in the city is phenomenal. If not the only, this is the most multiethnic Caribbean society in its hemisphere. The history of its people depicts a tale of battles for colonial power and ownership. Today, the country is an independent Caricom state dominating powerful interests in oil and gas territories governed by the first ever female Prime Minister and coalition government politics in the Caribbean. Don’t worry you’ll fit right in, just take a look at a line from our national anthem, “Here every creed and race shall find an equal place.”

Sooo many choices:

This island was formerly part of the beautiful Amazon jungle. The topography is sculpted with lush mountains, forests, cascading waterfalls, tranquil mangroves, rivers, brown sugar cane sandy beaches and picturesque bird sanctuaries. The beauty and bounty of these islands will sweep you of your feet and take your breath away.

 

Menu?  Tantalize those taste buds

This melting pot brews the most exotic food from gourmet dining to road side hot spots tantalizing your taste buds with a frenzy of dishes from our rich culture and interracial heritage. Just ask host and food extraordinaire of Bizarre foods, Andrew Zimmerman. The gastronomy is mind blowing enticing visitors with the national dish pelau, a one pot meal that reflects the kaleidoscope of the people who came.  Tobago, the sister isle lures you with crab and dumpling another mouthwatering delicacy. Bake and shark, doubles, corn soup, callaloo, dhal and rice, roti and pastelle are just a few more signature temptations to tease your sense of taste and leave you yearning for more.

 

                       

Wedding theme? I hope you can keep up

There are the typical options; beach, rainforest, church wedding but what if you can do so much more. The cultural and spiritual background of Trinidad and Tobago caters to you.   Just imagine one of kind themes to exchange your nuptials; a calypso wedding, a plantation wedding on a cocoa estate, an Indian wedding with half the cost, time and hassle to India. What about a traditional Tobago heritage wedding?

 

Places to go?

Discover all of these themes and amazing sites like The Caroni Bird Sanctuary, The Pitch Lake, The Wild Fowl Trust, The Asa Wright Nature Centre, The Water Front, The Main Ridge, The Mystery Tombstone in Plymouth, The Devil’s Wood yard, The Botanical Garden, The San Fernando Hills, The Temple on the Sea, the Look Out and infinite beaches, rainforests, historical, religious and cultural sites for you to choose from on both islands.

Things to do? All work and no play makes for a dull person!

Ever heard the expression “life is a party,” Down here in Trinidad and Tobago the party is always pumping and there is surely something to do for everyone.

From heritage sites, fancy nightclubs, fine dining, waterfront restaurants, aqua parks, agro parks, family entertainment, fashion houses, pilgrimages, golf  courses, plantations, chic shopping to street bargains, business expos, cultural festivals like Phagwa, Divali, Carnival, La Divina Pastora and Emancipation. Don’t forget catamaran cruises and extreme sports like power boat racing, goat racing, crab racing, scuba diving, bird watching, horseback riding, fishing, sailing, snorkeling, hiking, mountain biking, para sailing, wake boarding, banana boat riding, water skiing, kite flying and jet skiing.

Accommodation? Mi casa es su casa

Feel at home whether you are at high end international business chains like Hyatt, Mariott, Hilton, Crowne Plaza or the regal Carlton Savannah. Choose from several all inclusive beach resorts; Magdalena Grand, Salybia, Coco Reef, L’ grand Courland. Bed and breakfast inns at The Nest Visitor’s Accommodation or eco lodges like Foot prints Resort or Brasso Seco apartments on the Brasso Seco estate.

 

 

All packed?

Trinidad and Tobago continues to be astutely stout in its charge to compete with other places as a premier wedding destination. There is no other Caribbean destination quite like this one. “El secreto mejor guardado del mundo .“ It’s the best kept secret in the world so are you booking your ticket now to discover the hidden treasures that lie within or be the last to find out? Hmm, it seems like you are a bit unsure. Why don’t you take a few minutes to collect yourself and get ready for Trinidad and Tobago, The Journey, you are bound for matrimonial bliss. Enjoy!

Fashion destination – Zadd and Eastman Designs

 

Dare to be different then get acquainted with Zadd and Eastman Designs. These names are synonymous with cutting edge Caribbean fashion.  This duo is reckoned as the fashion elite among others. They belong to two different racial origins yet their platonic relationship brings out the best in their performance as always in the multiethnic society of Trinidad and Tobago. Their emergence on the global scene sets the stage for runway couture. They are noted for their ready to wear hand painted pieces. Regardless of style and design Zadd and Eastman are two patriots who always depict Caribbean hues. Truly, this keeps that Caribbean aesthetic in their garments that reflect Zadd and Eastman Designs.

Omzad Khan and Nigel Eastman are two gentlemen from South Trinidad. They originate from Point Fortin. From time immemorial these designers have been a favourite with the community first and the international stage thereafter. Their creativity in innovation is noteworthy. Yet, it is their humility, compassion and empathy with their clientele that have ensured customer loyalty. Hither to this the community continues to endorse their own. Usually, they are booked throughout the year so if one wants to get a booking this must be done early. Nevertheless, you can’t afford to miss out on owning one of their unique pieces. A Zadd and Eastman ensemble guarantees you a head turner if not a few head turns. You will be stunning in your choice of design. They brand their clothes and sell Caribbean pride.

Designers’ credibility has always been challenged and these two aced that challenge with perfect scores. They have graced the sets of Caribbean Fashion Week (CFW) in Jamaica. CFW has been dubbed by British Vogue as the most important trend setter event. Also, Zadd and Eastman participated in Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Week. They were invited to champion their designs at the biggest fashion event in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, “Fashion Caribbean 2010”. Zadd and Eastman belong to The Designer Critic Project 2011 at The University of Trinidad and Tobago. This is a program to critique and guide aspiring fashion designers. Besides this their pieces were modeled in a fashion show for the spouses of the delegates attending The Summit of The Americas in Trinidad. Miss Trinidad and Tobago’s Miss World and Miss Universe representatives have been dressed by Zadd and Eastman. They have styled and dressed celebrities some of who include Grammy award gospel artist; Dottie Peoples, Camille Mc Donald; second place winner on Tyra Banks America’s Next Top Model show and Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child. Undeniably, these south guys have surpassed critiques and won their credibility challenge.

Essentially, some of the best kept secrets are in plain sight. Zadd and Eastman Designs have been in the public domain for years. Whilst fashionistas may have a clue or two of these designs there are others who have been left in the dark. Ignorance is certainly not bliss but just passé. The ownership of one of these designs can leave you with unforgettable memories of fashion well received. Daring, different and dynamic Zadd and Eastman have broken cross cultural barriers. They have rejuvenated an industry that needs particular attention. They are national icons for bringing to light an avenue of diversification in the Trinidad and Tobago’s economy. Zadd and Eastman are real pioneers in their field. They have opened Pandora’s Box and spread the word that there is dignified skill and talent right within their country. They have placed Trinidad and Tobago on the Fashion map. These fashion moguls have proven the nation to be worthy of a second glance. Their designs represent a dream that has become a reality. Simply, Zadd and Eastman Designs are collections of rare luxuries discovered on a journey to Caribbean personification.

Food Is The Staff of Life..as it should be…in Trinidad & Tobago

Food is the Staff of life

Predominantly, the price of food has inflated. Constantly, many search for economical ways to feed themselves. Although, it would seem when one weighs the odds the preparation of homemade meals may be cost efficient. Yet, while this holds water this is not entirely true. Carefully, the consumer must investigate alternative dining options and make the average comparison.

There is an inundation of food stalls throughout Trinidad like a roadside buffet. These food carts deliver quality and affordability to all classes and masses. The public can choose from fortifying burgers and hotdogs to suit their palette. Local food like bake and saltfish buljol or smoke herring are fortifying for everyone. There are more flexible options with pies; cheese, beef, chicken, potato.  Corn soup is another divine creation which soothes and comforts one on a cold day or any other. In addition Indian delicacies prove for a more tantric taste bud teaser. Doubles, Aloo pies , Phlouries and  Saheenas are not only exotic variations but reasonable. These national food treasures do not exceed $15. Overall, dining out is none other than a showcase for history, culture and a sweet hand without the hassle of food preparation.

Moreover, local fast food eateries can host the price for your pocket and the quantity for your hunger. Chinese restaurants are invading Trinidad’s length and width. Whilst some are more ostentatious than others there are always good buys around the corner. A dozen wantons can be quoted at most $20. Spring rolls vary according to size but can start at $10 each. A daily special consistent of fried rice, chow mein, noodles and chicken started at $15 and rose to $17.This portion can make 2 servings. The Friendship Chinese Restaurant in San Fernando is a keen example of this whether dining in or taking out. It is small but offers these dishes to compliment your budget. The service is almost impeccable even though the English is not perfect this can be excused since English isn’t their mother tongue.  Barbeque pits have popped up unanimously. The prices range start at $15 for fries and increase to around $25 with meat options. Essentially, this is another meal plan that doesn’t require a quick fix at home.

In addition, delights of buys at local shops.  From time immemorial the bakery has been the choice for many. One can enjoy the warmth of island relishes like coconut tarts, currants roll, pizza, sausage rolls, sandwiches and ice cream. Prices can start at $2 and escalate in proportion to purchases. Rituals Coffee House offers a place to relax and not only have coffee, tea or latte’s that can start at $25 but delectable fancies. Donuts are less than $10 and Jamaican Patties courtesy Tastee Patties are less than $15. Again one can have the best of both world’s while eating and relaxing at the Coffee House. Also UWI Nectars can entice you in your choice of fresh Jamaican Patties at a lower cost of $10. Next, they sell fresh fruit and an ensemble of selected punches and create your own smoothie for the health conscious consumer. Then, one can look to the Supermarket for reasonable and attractive appetizers. Cakes, biscuits, sweetbreads, chips and other snacks start under $5 and increase in ratio to purchase. Drinks start at less than $5 with a chubby and vary with choice. Alas, all is not lost since a plenitude of food is readily available for our satisfaction.

Undoubtedly, food is the staff of life that should not be kept away from people. When one chooses to prepare meals at home for whichever rationale they are allowed to do so. However, one should not be restricted to those options only. Food is an adventure. One needs to explore the hidden trails and secret passageways to isles of sumptuous dishes. Meals are reasonable, affordable and delectable. So immerse yourself in the vibrancy that is food and relish in its glory. Failure to do so and wallow in boring, bland, monotonous dishes can be detrimental to your appetite. Engage yourself and experience the food of life which was not meant to be wasted or hidden from us. Tantalize your taste buds and dine out today.

 

Trinidad wedding trends

TRINIDAD WEDDING TRENDS

“What is there in the vale of life.

Half so delightful as a wife

When friendship, love and peace combine

To stamp the marriage bond divine.”

William Cowper

 

 

Welcome to a promise of heaven on earth. Participate in the most unforgettable rite of passage that many foresee but only few achieve. Seek every couple’s fantasy amid the backdrop of God’s divine tropical tapestry. Intricate perfection is crafted by Cupid in a kaleidoscope of exotic flora, fauna and romantic sunsets. Let Aphrodite’s “savoir faire” introduce you to the infinite dimensions of oriental cultures to western swaggers in a posited reflection of Trinidad, The True Caribbean. A wedding destination of cascading beauty has been “el secreto guardado mejor del mundo” for too long. Trinidad wedding trends guide the consecration of couple’s “isledo.”

Trinidad’s diverse culture envisages for an affluent experience brazened in priceless traditions and present trends. The Hindu marriage reflects origins of the islands Indian ancestors. It remains a three day celebration. Friday Night commences “maticor night”  for ladies and the bride.  A “hardi ceremony” follows with the sanctification of the bride in turmeric treatments for impurities and a natural glow. Saturday night is the “cooking night and Sunday is the wedding day where more rituals are carried out. The celebration highlights sweet and savoury Indo Caribbean dishes and festive music.

The muslim wedding ceremony or nicah provides for a mutual agreement to marry via social contract. The groom offers dowry to the bride as his commitment. The kubtah or ceremony is performed by the imam following a celebration. The catholic marriage ceremony entails Christianity beliefs from the Spanish colonizers. Couples exchange vows, rings, ignite a Unity candle, nuptial blessings, sign the marriage certificate and are pronounced as man and wife. These are some of the wedding trends in Trinidad.

Undoubtedly, bridal couture has changed Trinidad trends. The white dress sees additions such as frills and ruffles. While strapless dresses refuse to be dominated by shoulder cover ups there is an emergence of straps and sleeves. The Islamic bridal gown has been designed with a Victorian flair; beads, golden embroidery, feathers and fur line gowns with hues of gold, white and cream.

In addition, trends have blossomed in an effervescence of trio colour combinations. Famous designers showcased new wedding styles.

Moreover, the financial crisis has impacted wedding trends in Trinidad. This crisis stimulated eco friendly, cost effective and creative ideas. Couples settled for intimate settings at home. Also, natural materials favoured décor and wedding favors. Foliage, cloth and flowers are used more than paper and balloons. Nevertheless, the latter décor still finds its place at indoor sites. Wedding Favors utilize themed candles and chocolate and a purse fetish. Place cards assume photo frames, recyclable paper and shells.

The three tiered cake is constant but more creative with Trinidad’s Kiss Baking Company who realizes every couple’s fantasy.

Simply, these trends are embraced as two hands are joined and two hearts beat as one.

You were born together, and together you shall be for evermore….but let there be spaces in your togetherness. And let the winds of the heavens dance between you.
Kahlil Gibran

Tantalize your taste buds with Gastronomy in Trinidad

Tantalize your taste buds with Gastronomy in Trinidad

Often, Caribbean tourism destination has been branded for mass tourism that is the sun, sea, sand factors. While the Caribbean still boasts of these abundant features they are not the only destinations with these product offerings. One can look to the exotic Maldives and by extension the Mediterranean for such sun lust. More over it is cost efficient for European travelers and even worthwhile to experience a vacation there.  A new tourist is emerging who has experience, affluence and looks to a new experience. Now the Caribbean must act on its instinct and open their own Pandora’s box to save  tourism.  Each island is unique so the discovery of niche tourism is just a breath away from salvation for these isles. Trinidad, the energy capital of the Caribbean has hidden secrets.  In this tropical paradise there must be diversification of their product to rejuvenate a fading tourism industry. Trinidad can explore gastronomic tourism, its pros and cons with reference to similar success stories and possible suggestions for implementation.

Gastronomic tourism refers to travel to destinations where food and drink drive tourists to travel. This offers an exhaling experience that purports difference associated with the destination. Gastronomic tourism is practiced in other countries as it is a necessary element for any tourism destination. Usually, it follows tourism products, festivals, sites and attractions and tours. Generally, gastronomic tourists are professionals between 30 and 40- years who earn more than average income.  In Spain, the wineries support local development not to mention the production of garlic and olive oil. Croissants and champagne are synonymous with France. Regionally, jerk chicken and Jamaican patties are “Yardi” fancies. Nonetheless, Trinidad has its own cuisine because of its multicultural ancestry. Hence, bake and shark, pepper sauce, sour sop ice cream, chocolate, tamarind ball, toolum, doubles, pelau, corn soup, curry crab and dumpling are mouth watering desires that entice the palette. Thirsts can be quenched with mango, citrus, passion fruit wines and natural fruit punches. Angostura Limited has reintroduced rum and whiskey which suit the acquired taste buds of the avid food fan.  Essentially, Gastronomic tourism does applaud a possible diversification to Trinidad’s tourism industry.

Basically, there are many advantages for promoting gastronomic tourism in Trinidad. Financially, food tourism can generate revenue. According to The International  Culinary Tourism Association, the average tourists spend about one third of their budget on food related activities. On the other hand, deliberate food travelers spend a higher amount on food.  There is increased food production to supplement the demand. Then, employment becomes the by product for the community. Entrepreneurial activity can be fostered as locals tap into their culinary skills.Greening of the environment can be seized with sustainable practices. Also, these activities usually take place in rural areas so the community benefits too. They attain pride, ownership by decision making and participation by the locals involved in these ventures. A success story is Jamaica who diversified their tourism from mass tourism. Again this activity occurs in rural areas and locals largely participate. Jamaica promote tours to their Appleton Rum Estate and learn the history, rum making, tasting and visit the distillery. Bicycle tours to Blue Mountain are anticipated where one can taste the Blue Mountain coffee.  Devon’s ice cream House has  a variety of  natural flavours to reflect their culture. Similarly, Trinidad has packaged cocoa at Asa Wright Nature Centre for tourist but this is certainly inadequate for a land that is fertile.  There are heritage and cultural linkages.  Gastronomic tourism stimulates domestic tourism. In Debe Trinidad there is an area for vendors who sell popular Indo Trini delicacies to the public. Simply, diversification can breathe more life into Trinidad’s tourism.

Undoubtedly, there are issues that construe the success of any development even food tourism. A destination’s failure to sustain adequate resources to meet demand can plunge the niche market into despair. This emerging market is already creating competition. The main competing destinations are Europe; Spain, France and Italy. In addition, Asia has competition among, Japan, India and Thailand. A negligence to maintain competitive edge can be the deciding factor between profit and loss. Hence, Bio security risks can deteriorate this industry. Capital and accessibility to resources must be readily available to enter this business. Seasonality of products  threaten income in the industry. Prevalent to any activity are disadvantages like loss of time and availability. Stake holder cooperation can deter futuristic development of the niche where conflict arises. Realistically, there are disadvantages in the diversification of Trinidad’s tourism industry.

Significantly, gastronomic tourism diversifies and supplements the tourism industry. It gives destinations the competitive advantage over others. It must be cultivated in a sustainable way with informed best practices to make a mark in this industry. While there are negatives to any development they must be considered for fruitful bearing on the discourse of food tourism in Trinidad. Some of Trinidad’s best kept secrets hide in the food industry. The cocoa has been rated as the best on the market and are exported for use.  The bake and shark was deemed one of the top ten things foodie Zimmerman ever tasted. Trinidad food was rated on Bizarre Foods rated as The Travel Channel.  Overall, there is definitely potential for gastronomic tourism in Trinidad. Essentially, diversification of Trinidad’s tourism industry via gastronomic tourism is a niche market that can supplement and  possibly redeem the faltering  industry.

Destination Success

Success that prized virtue  held by so many in society. It’s true meaning waiting to be irrevocably traced and stamped in the palms of our hands, clasped so tightly that we never let it go.

From tender ages, parents, the community, education, media, religious institutions have placed such emphasis on this thing called success that it is now ingrained in the hearts and minds of adult individuals today. They have cultivated the desire to achieve, to accomplish fascinating objectives with the least respect for timid attempts and a shadowy fear of failure. Innately, people vicariously learn from their teachers in life and so they learn to become competitive and some if not most extremists become individualistic. They are taught to believe in a meritocratic society where effort equals reward so the more effort equates the more reward.

By all means look around you , think of the names that come to mind when you say the word success; businessmen, lawyers, politicians, celebrities, entrepreneurs and professionals. Now let’s look at this carefully of course they have accomplished some task, goal, achievement. Obviously, they have the worldly possessions that compliment their fitted lifestyle. Some may even have the luck of being fortunate enough to have the blessing of family steeped in happiness. However, are they truly successful? Have they truly maximized their potential to achieve? Is this what has been taught by society and now it has been realized and soon it will be reciprocated?

Some food for thought people success is really defined by you not by the comparison of the possessions and accomplishments of others. This is how you describe and write the literary devices that tell the story of  your life. Of course there are going to be obstacles and you will most likely be stumped by many. But it’s not about how many obstacles show up uninvited but it’s how you get through them. Ever heard of that proverb; “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Well that’s exactly what you need to do. Stop what you are doing. Sit back and analyze what’s going on and decide the steps you need to take to your path, destination success. You see the most challenging not difficult but challenging part here is to take that single step and soon  you will take more steps and before you know it you have arrived at destination success and it’s time to enjoy the fruition of your journey.

It is important that you remember the journey to your success will most likely be an arduous trek. You see if it were easy you would not learn and your experience would be least memorable. Also, you would not have been able to grow from it and share it with others. So decide your destiny, make a decision, make a step, accept the reality that this trail is going to be different and embrace everything that is about to amaze you with an open mind and open heart. Promise yourself that in the weak moments this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for you to have a second chance at life. So for those weak moments take your time and power up because you will soon be baffled by destination success as it quaintly awaits your arrival. All the best!! Enjoy ;)

Destination Trinidad; The Spa “An oasis of divinity”

From time immemorial the spa has been aligned with starry eyed approval for treatment of illness, improved health and well being. Patrons flocked to mineral water ways in search of a cure to a burgeoning epidemic or a simple cleansing. Today, the spa has been transformed from an ordinary watering hole, hot spring and bath. It has been diversified  to include day , dental, ayurvedic , cruise ship , medical, mineral springs, garden, resort and mobile spas. In addition, cosmetology practices are also hosted at institutions of beautification.  Moreover, this industry is a thriving business in the 21st century, an era obsessed with health and wellness.  There is fierce competition as persons seek not only a spa experience but that unique all round tourist experience in a secret hideaway. Undoubtedly, Trinidad  is no stranger to this niche boasting of its own oasis of divinity.

The traveler who explores the tropical  manicured and pedicured landscapes of Trinidad can complete his quest as a  fulfilled and cured guest. One’s  trek along the Northern Ranges of Trinidad can discover infinite roadside springs where the cool, pristine, mineral waters of the springs trickle down the mountain sides. On an average beautiful, breathtaking day feel free to stop and fill your bottles with spring water at its purest and natural state. Mineral water has proven qualities for reducing iron deficiencies and curing skin disorders and other ailments.  Also negative hydrogen ions are created at waterfalls when the water molecules split. The negative ions join with free positive ions and neutralize the electrical charge in the air. These negative ions are also related to increasing serotonin levels in the blood stream.  Serotonin levels improve sleeping, eating patterns and overall moods in anybody counteracting bouts of fear, depression and anxiety. The gurgling sound and spray of the waterfall also aids to relax and rejuvenate individuals. Look up your local guides for information on tours to the majestic waterfalls that pulse through Trinidad. The most popular waterfalls are Brasso Seco, Paria, Matura among so many enchanted treasures.

Further south on the island, there are more natural phenomena with immense properties. The La Brea Pitch Lake an eight world wonder is more than just a site of attraction for tourists. On a rainy day, pools of water are collected and engross the many sulphuric properties of the asphalt. Locals assure that this water can cure skin ailments like psoriasis, rashes, infections and even mosquito bites.

Trinidad has  its fair share of mud volcanoes which are not as active as those from its Caricom counterpart. These are historic and natural attractions dispersed over the island. Mud and volcanic ash are known for their high propensity in sulphur. These properties can actively destroy bacteria, disinfect the blood, stimulate bile secretion, aid oxidation reactions in the body, protect protoplasm of cells, promote synthesis of collagen in cells. The bounty of beauty remedies is significant as sulphur slows down the aging process and  protects against toxic effects of pollutants and radiation. Notably, The Devil’s Woodyard in Piparo is just one of these famous mud volcanoes.

So are you Trinidad bound yet? Your physical, spiritual and mental being is at the core of  your balance if you want to be at your best. So stop procrastinating and do yourself a favor; pack up and book the next flight to destination health and wellness.  Welcome to an exotic island of immense possibilities and prosperity where your health is first priority. Release your inhibitions and let the transformation begin!