Fete & Festivity – Page 2 – Travel With A Purpose

The Lost Tribe's Riddim

Posted on February 6, 2017by admin

Before I proceed with my review for The Lost Tribe Carnival 2017 I would like to set the record straight on my thoughts about our Carnival fashion. I want to reiterate that Trinidad Carnival remains a haven for “creatives”. This means there is always room for more design aesthetics, creativity, new directions and new concepts that resonate with or even challenge the traditional ideals. Of course our Carnival fashion is embedded in our history and we owe all of this that we have today; our creativity, our skills, our talents to the foundation that gave the present day mas’ men and mas’ women their jump off into the Carnival scene. There are so many niches in the present and there is still room for more. As “creatives” we are entitled to critically examine art forms but we must not judge and bash each other for being too traditional or too modern because this is Trinidad Carnival. All the different facets of Trinidad Carnival encompass our Carnival fashion landscape and neither is wrong for bringing to fruition their contribution to Trinidad Carnival fashion.

Photo Credit: The Lost Tribe

The Lost Tribe Carnival had its debut in 2016. The Creative Director Valmiki Maharaj and Co – Creative Director Anya Ayoung Chee sought to expound upon a mas that was missing from the Carnival. They felt it was time to deliver the people from the lack of theatre, drama and storytelling on the Carnival road. They intended to bridge a gap between traditional mas and modern day. The Lost Tribe Carnival brands itself as an alternative concept band.This year their presentation awakens the creatives in dance, music and theatre yet again as they bring forth “The Riddim.” The cast of designers include Shawn Dhanraj, JP Richardson, Keegan Simon, Nadya Shah, Shari Cumberbatch, Simon White, Jeri-Lee Alexander & Lauren Baccus and Aaron Schneider. “The Riddim” in my words would describe the sound of Trinidad Carnival.

The Areito Section

Areito is a traditional, Amerindian based prayer ceremony. The female costume includes head piece, bra and bottom piece, full-body chain and backpack. The male costume includes head piece, chest piece, sharwani pants and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura FerreiraPhoto Credit : Laura Ferreira

The Bamboo Section

This section was inspired by the sound of the tamboo bamboo musical instrument and was designed to produce the sound off the moving Bamboo Cathedral. The female costume features head piece, bra and bottom piece, cropped top, hip chain, leggings and backpack. The male costume includes head piece, sleeves, long pants, satchel and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura FerreiraPhoto Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Cutta Section

The Cutta Drum from The Laventille Rhythm Section heavily influences this section of The Riddim. The female costume features hoodie, bra and bottom piece, leggings, bracelets, foot pieces and necklace. The male costume includes turban, dhoti pants, Indian Drum and backpack

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Djun Section

This costume is described as being an inspiration from the “Djun – Djun” drum from the Laventille Rhythm Section. This drum also fits into the category of traditional war drums. The female costume consists of headpiece, whole piece, cuffs, neck piece, necklace, cape and backpack. The male costume consists of headpiece, arm pieces, pants, neck piece, backpack and Djembe Drum.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Dudup Section

This section bears influence from the Dudup pan or as The Lost Tribe considers it; the forefather of the steel pan. The female costume includes head piece, monokini, bangles, neck piece, cape and standards. The male costume includes neck piece, belt, pants, backpack and standard.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Iron Section

This theme has connotations of the first strike, heartbeat and soul of The Laventille Rhythm Section. The female costume entails tiara, bra, monokini, cuffs, collar and backpack. The male costume includes head band, collar, khaki pants, leg pieces and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Jab Section

The Lost Tribe Carnival defines The Jab as a spirit. They believe The Jab is a profoundly dark and inspiring story rooted at the core of local culture. The Jab costume is inspired by the sounds, visualization and movement of the J’Ouvert experience. The female costumes highlight headphone head piece, bra, monokini, Obi belt, bangles and backpack. The male costume showcases headphone head piece, neck piece, joggers, Crix tin, whistle and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

After previewing these costumes I understand and appreciate The Lost Tribe Carnival’s contribution for 2017. I am fully aware that the creative process was carefully planned and executed. The costumes are synchronized with their “behind the scenes” meanings and relate to the design production. This is a revolution in Trinidad Carnival fashion and it is coherent. Their efforts to introduce theatre, drama, and storytelling are on point. There is zero mismatching of concept to creation. The cast of designers under the stewardship of the creative directors has managed to capture their stories in the essence of the costume design. However, this does not stop here as this group used the modern day facilities and technologies to make their impact and etch their brand identity in the hearts and minds of all who are interested in being part of their tribe. You can contact The Lost Tribe Carnival at 2017.losttribecarnival.com or you can take my Carnival Fashion tour which will be offered this Saturday 11^th February 2017 to learn more.

In closing my words of advice for the creative community and the spectators of Carnival Fashion are, “Embrace who we are and the bigger picture of what we are and the direction for Trinidad Carnival rather the greater vision for Trinidad Carnival, respect each others work, focus on the task at hand, at “getting it done” and to consistently and continuously work together because united we will stand and divided we will fall.”

Eastern Fusion Fashion in Trinidad

Posted on November 1, 2016by admin

Fashion has always been a way for one to express oneself and make a statement about one’s identity without saying a word. It is more profound than surface appeal to increase one’s attractiveness. It delves with a psychology of colours as each colour has its own meaning. Similarly each fabric whether silk or cotton attracts particular vibrations and energies. When the Indians arrived to Trinidad they brought their customs and their ways of dressing. Some of those remain inherent in the styles of Trinidadian styling today. Silver toe rings were worn in pairs on the second toe of each foot on a woman. It is said that this custom had certain reproductive health benefits for the woman. Also it was insisted that the ring ought to be silver to better absorb energies from the earth that would pass through the body and refresh the being wearing the toe ring. Bangles were cited as having benefits of keeping energy in the body and helping women with blood circulation. Nose rings were marked for benefits of reducing pain when the married woman goes into labour. It is believed that the nose ring would connect with a nerve that runs through that part of the body.

Photo Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/212584044881223568/

Of course there is a glaring difference in perception of colour by persons in the Western world versus persons in the Eastern parts like India and Pakistan. We live in modern day Trinidad, an island in the Western Hemisphere juxtapose to Eastern and Western influences. This makes our culture and fashion even more vibrant and dynamic. Our creatives steadily made their move in fusion fashion. Local “fashionpreneurs” who recognized the importance of ethnicity to our culture (even those who have an affinity for East meets West trends) picked up the pace to fill the gaps and deliver fashion tailored to anyone interested in the Eastern Fusion Fashion niche in Trinidad. They identified fabrics, materials, tones and trends with the Trinidadian in mind and created looks that suited the Caribbean woman. The top local Eastern Fusion Fashion designer brands are House of Jaipur, Neha Karina and Aiela Fashions.

Photo Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/Achkemus/hatecopy/

Photo Credit: http://instaliga.com/ru/hatecopy?page=1089952981849780449_2120555&loadCount=2

House of Jaipur is owned by Dhisha Moorjani. She was born to Indian parentage and raised in an Indian home in Trinidad. After her parents passed she devoted her love for them into the brand House of Jaipur. She converted her parents’ home into a beautiful boutique that offers persons the chance to experience Indian lifestyle and culture. She has several Indian fashion fusion lines, luxury resort wear, festival wear and modern Indian wear that she designed herself. There is a tea room for persons to gorge on Indian delicacies and sip from a chai bar. She also curates lifestyle pieces at her store so you can take away not only memories but a piece of the House of Jaipur experience with you. House of Jaipur located at #14 O’Connor Street Woodbrook was recently renovated and has been transformed even more to entertain and excite your senses when you visit!

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/houseofjaipur/?fref=ts

Neha Karina, the brand is very versatile. It is owned by Neha Dawar who is from India . She is of mixed parentage Trinidadian and Indian. Neha lives in Trinidad now. She has also completed her studies in India, Dubai and locally at The Caribbean Academy for Fashion and Design. Neha has an online fashion and beauty series called Coffee and Lipstick. She is also a stylist and marketing consultant. This designer focuses on youthful ethnic bridal wear, festival wear as well as contemporary wear. You are almost guaranteed to find a striking statement piece in her store and I dare you not to leave without it. Persons can also collaborate with Neha and book a custom fitting for a style they may be interested in wearing. She also stocks stationery and a few lifestyle pieces for those interested. Neha Karina is located at Hilton Hotel in Trinidad.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/nehakarinaTT/

Last but not least is ethnic designer, Sharmila Maharaj. Affectionately called Mila this designer is also a trained aesthetician, Mehendi artist and beauty expert. Born to a Brazilian mother and a Trinidadian father she grew up with two cultures. The Trinidadian community she grew up in and quality time with her friends from the East played huge roles in sculpting Mila’s attraction to the Eastern world. She is an avid jet setter and immerses herself in whichever culture and demographic that she interacts with. It is therefore no surprise to me that her journey in life has taken her creative soul on this path to create a supply of ethnic “athleisure” and contemporary ethnic fusion wear for the demand that is needed in Trinidad. She is the first person in Trinidad to create an athletic leisure “athleisure” hijab. She has also taken note of what is fashionably trending globally and used appropriate forecasting for her local debut. Her recent collection boasted of scarves, maxi shirt dresses and funky Samosa pants just to name a few. Her clothing can be described as exclusively modest and reasonably priced. Mila’s boutique is based in Central Trinidad. You can browse her boutique collection online and discover a whole new world of fashionable clothing and accessories that have been awaiting your arrival all this time.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/aielafashion/

So folks if you did not know where to get your Eastern Fusion Fashion vibes now you do!

May the positive energies from these pieces find a way to your closet!!!

May the designers continue to ignite the souls of you and others with their passion and creativity!

Matthew's Storm Party

Posted on September 27, 2016by admin

As you know Trinidad and Tobago and the Windward Islands are expecting some severe weather resulting from a cyclone that may develop into a storm called Matthew. The last time Trinidad was under such a serious weather disturbance watch I remember being on dorms with my sorority sisters. As responsible “Trinbagonians” there was always an urgency to make our Caricom brothers and sisters feel at home. So in true “Trini” style we were always prepared for this event and hosted our own “storm party”. Please note that this weather disturbance has not developed into a storm and this storm party is just another event. So I have prepared a “do it yourself” list for those of us who may need some assistance with their storm party planning! Perhaps you can call it “Matthew: The Revival” as there was a storm called Matthew in 2010.

Décor

A storm party like this requires very little décor as there is a high potential that efforts into designs could be wiped out in a heartbeat. Although some super charged LED lights, glow in the dark stickers and glow sticks can light up the night and be pretty nifty in the event of power outage.

Attire

Each person attending should arrive in whatever they feel comfortable wearing. However, they should walk with an extra change of clothing and closed toe footwear that protects their feet in the event of street and flash flooding. They should also walk with their own blankets just in case they may need it.

Location

If you are throwing this party at your home please make sure that the area is stable for example whether it is away from windows and flying objects. Choose wisely as you do not want guests to go missing. As the host/hostess you should also be informed of the nearest buildings that would be transformed into temporary shelters. Also keep a list of emergency numbers on hand (fire service, police service, office of disaster and preparedness and hospitals). It is advisable to know the floor plan for your storm party location and the evacuation routes should there be a need to exit the party quickly. Create a buddy system at your party so each person is in charge of their buddy’s whereabouts throughout the party.

Party Food

The meteorological office issued statements that we can expect strong winds and heavy rains even flash flooding. Strategically if your guests are arriving before tonight and you wish to do a three course meal then that is fine as well. you can even set up a coal pot or barbecue pit and get your roast on! My only concern is that they consume the food before the power goes. Yet if you anticipate a flood or power outage ruining your party then it would be more ideal that the party food on your table is canned. Some ideas revolve around lots of appetizers that are non perishable. These can include canned sausages, cereals, canned tuna, bread, crackers, canned fruit, peanut butter, jams, tacos, canned beans. If you do not want so much pressure on you as hostess you can ask your guests to admit one can to the party and create a list of the items so there is no repetition (please wash these cans and dry them before attending the storm party and do not forget the can opener). Ideally you should have a lot of potable drinking water so stock up on bottled water and whichever non perishable canned or bottled beverage you prefer. If there are toddlers and babies at your party then remember to stock up on their special items for their diet as well as their disposables. Disposable cutlery, cups and plates should be bought as well as garbage bags.

Activities

You are at liberty to decide which activities you would like to have at your party. You can play musical chairs, musical makeover, monopoly, karaoke, go fish and the list goes on. Jokes, story-telling and other creative exercises can keep your crowd entertained and occupied whilst anticipating further developments in the weather pattern disturbance.

Music

Of course you should have a mobile charger for your phones, tablets, ipads and electronic devices in the event that the power goes and you need to recharge your batteries. I am sure your favourite music is already on your “storm party” playlist to keep you all stress free before the lights flicker and the wind comes howling in the night. However, a battery operated radio with a replacement battery pack is advisable to have on hand so you can tune in to your favourite radio station and hear updates on the status of the developing weather pattern.

Safety

I would advise you to have a first aid kit on standby in the event the party gets into full swing and there may be a few cuts and bruises whilst bracing for the strong winds and dancing to your favourite tunes. The kit should also include some sanitizer for cleaning wounds, bandages, medication and allergy medication among other things. Tape, scissors, garbage bags, blankets should be stored in dry locked plastic containers. You can also use those hard cover suitcases or plastic buckets with lids for storage of important documents and items you wish to keep dry and safe. Flashlight, matches, candles can also be kept in storage. The power can be knocked out so I advise you to set up your backup generator if you can. Insect sprays, repellents, calamine lotion and citronella candles should also be kept as they may come in very handy if the power goes and the electronic mosquito bug mats stop working. Personal items such as toilet paper, soaps and sanitary napkins should also be stored in the event that you run out of this stock. Those of you who keep shovels, brooms and machetes in your homes you should secure them properly because the last thing you want is your guest getting accidentally hurt by a flying machete. However, they may be very useful if torrential rains and winds arrive.

See below some useful links

http://www.odpm.gov.tt/node/878

http://www.ssd.noaa.gov/goes/east/tatl/h5-loop-rb.html

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/gtwo.php?basin=atlc&fdays=5

http://www.odpm.gov.tt/node/82

https://twitter.com/Seigonie?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Peace Out Trinidad

Be Safe

Be Prepared

Enjoy the Party

Save

Simply Decadence Ltd – A Premier Gourmet Cafe

Posted on September 14, 2016by admin

I guess you can say I have a “thing” for cafes. I am not too sure why but I believe it has something to do with my love for mini escapades into a world of soulful delicacies and old world charm (perhaps too much Breakfast at Tiffany’s ha ha). I am such a café fanatic that the minute I see or get whim that a new café is being launched it is inevitable that the café will be on my “must visit soon” list. I usually visit the south land ever so often every month. Every time I notice a few changes to the scene. Over the last few months I would see this purple and gold sign with the words Simply Decadence Ltd. Immediately, my thoughts were “oh wow a dessert café in Point Fortin finally someone did it!” Obviously, this place made it on my list and I eventually got to stop by and get the “inside scoop” (no pun intended).

(Photo credit: Simply Decadence Ltd. Facebook Page)

Name

Simply Decadence Ltd.

Location

#18 Adventure Road Point Fortin (Next to Colfire)

Product

Gourmet Food and Treats (savory and sweet)

Service

Catering for all occasions

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Coffee

Contact Information

https://www.facebook.com/SimplyDecadenceLimited/

simplydecadencedesserts@gmail.com

1.868.284.5338

1.868.745.959

When I visited the café I chatted with one of the owners, Karon Felmine. I found out that the business is family owned. They have been in the catering industry for years prior to opening the cafe. This café was one of Karon’s dreams since 2012. In July 2016 there was an opportunity to realize this dream when the perfect spot became available. Karon and her family took advantage of the opportunity and today the community of Point Fortin and environs can enjoy being part of the dream.

Café Hours

Tuesdays to Wednesdays breakfast from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m.

Thursdays it is open from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays it is open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Sundays it is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The design aesthetic of Simply Decadence Ltd is kept simple with hues of blue, cream, grey and brown. Plant centrepieces adorn wood tables. Some candles replace the plants on the table that serves as the focal point for the lounge seating area. The lounge area heightens the rustic vibe with its basket weave elements and beige cushions. The lighting is not too bright or too dim for anyone to catch up on some reading whilst having their coffee. The design layout strikes a balance between an earthy and a modern ambience with a daytime city skyline backdrop on one of the walls. There is also television and wifi. The café area is clean and well maintained.

Lounge Area

(Photo Credit: David Wears)

Patrons can choose from continental breakfast on mornings. At other times there are local selections of Bees ice cream flavours, punches, hot drinks, smoothies, blended coffees, sandwiches, savory appetizers and decadent desserts. Karon says that they try to offer something different from the regular menu that patrons can get anywhere else. While I was at the café peanut ice creams with toppings and a chocolate cupcake were the items purchased from the menu by the persons in my pax. They thoroughly enjoyed their orders!

(Photo Credit: David Wears)

I am excited to see the development and progress yet to come for Karon and her family with this new venture. The hospitality is overwhelming and the staff is so friendly. My guests and I were complete strangers to Karon (since we had not met her before) yet we were treated like family. I will continue to recommend Simply Decadence Ltd to many persons who wish to walk in and get away from the city bustle, to celebrate a special occasion, to enjoy quality and affordable gourmet delights, to choose Simply Decadence Ltd as a potential caterer and to list them as a prime option for foreigners and locals visiting Point Fortin.

Congratulations Karon

Best Wishes

Save

The Best Weekend Ever is Not Coachella

Posted on March 19, 2016by admin

The world over is getting ready for The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Annual Festival (affectionately called Coachella). It is held at the Coachella Valley in the Colorado Desert. It is the most talked about event for spring breakers, hippies, wannabe hippies, cultural/art enthusiasts and celebrities. It’s a time when Spring fashion trends come out of their hiatus to thrill the gawking fashionistas and stylists with inspiration. If you have no idea what I am talking about perhaps you recall North West’s first birthday bash. She enjoyed a Coachella themed party hosted by the Kardashian tribe.

Perhaps you remember these photos of Selena Gomez and her “besties” enjoying the raves with top notch and small bands performing in genres from hip hop, rock, independent and electronic dance music whilst sparking fashion trends. Well either way this year Coachella takes place from April the 15th to April 24th 2016. So I guess it may be safe to say Coachella does not happen over the weekend so it can never be the best weekend ever (it actually spans a rough two weeks and). Moreover, the world over that has been there and done that are looking for something new to experience.

Why?
Well some of you are looking for a more intimate, cultured experience. You want to expose yourselves to new culture, cuisine, creative art, music and people. Also some of you would rather relish in doing this amid the backdrop of an exotic island whilst still “doing good” by following sustainable principles and best practices there. In addition, celebrating peace, love and unity with family, old friends and new ones all in one weekend getaway may just be your ‘cup of tea.’

Where am I taking you?
So let me introduce you to your next festival destination, a twin island state called Trinidad and Tobago. It is the most cosmopolitan island in the West Indies. It is the most southern island at the end of the chain of the West Indies close to the Amazon Forest and Venezuela. It is one of the few places on this planet where the locals are bonded by their love for culture in different ethnic cuisines, music, festivals and celebrations. This tropical island boasts of vibrant and infinite talent in their creative industry; fashion, music, art, food and even fun.

In fact, there is an organization in Trinidad called New Fire which is responsible for curating a series of musical concerts each month to showcase new music and progressive culture. New Fire is an initiative under the non-profit social enterprise called The Trinidad and Tobago Bridge Initiative. This year they are putting their mark on the local festival scene to promote a signature of theirs called New Fire Festival 2016. The team at New Fire has dubbed it, “The Best Weekend Ever”.

New Fire Festival 2016 is carded for 26th and 27th of March 2016 at Sanderson Park in Freeport Trinidad. The event promises outstanding live performances, outdoor camping (under the stars ), yoga, a midnight rave and a local shopping market featuring artisans, artists and fashion. There will be family zones, a pottery talkshop, a drum circle and musical acts from reggae to rock. All of the activities at New Fire Festival are pitted on the concept of sustainability. This includes upcycled shopping but is certainly not limited to that alone. Patrons interested in purchasing food are advised to bring reusable food containers as the New Fire team wants to reduce as much waste as they can that may harm the environment.

The partners for this event are also keepers and leaders of organizations that promote sustainability. Some of these include Wa Samaki Ecosystems (permaculture restoration), Upmarket (artisan market), Sun Eaters Organics (high quality local food products and gourmet chocolate), Soular (plantain and cocoa nibs), Sonara Sound Therapy, INIPIS (sustainable human involved planetary systems), I Am Movement (distributing information and providing workshop facilitators), Anugraha Yoga, Akasha Studio and Destination Chocolate.

There are different types of tickets available. Persons can choose from various options the type of experiences they mostly prefer and enjoy.If you would like to find out more on tickets and about The Best Weekend Ever then please have a look at the links below.
(w): http://www.newfireworld.com/
(e): newfirett@gmail.com
(fb): https://www.facebook.com/events/430322497165733/

So whatever you decide I wish you the best weekend ever!!!

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

Arty Party TT

Posted on March 11, 2016by admin

For far too long locals have grieved for something different to do in their free time. They are bombarded with the glitz and the glamour of uber chic parties and modern theater. However, they are now seemingly making trails to new discoveries or more intimate and self enriching experiences. One young lady who has realized this demand has decided to pair her knowledge, passion and experience in her niche to bring premium creative experiences to locals and persons visiting Trinidad. Sharon Burford, Trinidadian artist and illustrator is championing the local creative arts industry through her professional work at Studio 55 and her recent art initiative, “Arty Party TT.”

Photo Credit:https://www.facebook.com/artypartytt

Her work at Studio 55 ranges from live drawings at events, “cartoonize yourself” options to personalized requests and custom orders of black and white, colour, water colour, digital and many more choices in art and design. However, it is her Arty Party TT that strikes me boldly! Persons attending this party pay for a package which includes a creative art exercise, light refreshments, camaraderie of the entire group, a sense of belonging, team building skills for you and your family, friends or significant other (if you decide to go as a team). Knowledge is imparted upon the group and they leave the event rather renewed and fulfilled. The opportunity to learn differently and enjoy something differently is present here. Art Parties take place in the evenings. They are usually themed. Art Parties take place once per week and persons must book in advance to secure their seats as groups are small. Persons who are unable to attend can also book an art party for their birthday or some special occasion.

Photo Credit:https://www.facebook.com/artypartytt

Interestingly, Arty Party TT will celebrate their one year birthday on Friday 8th April with a signature Arty Party from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Gulf View Community Center. Persons who wish to attend must be mindful only 22 spaces are available for this event. The curator intends to do the theme in her version of Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss”. There is no age restriction or art experience prerequisite. Tickets are TTD$200.00 and more information is available at their pages below.

Photo Credit:https://www.facebook.com/artypartytt

Contact Arty Party TT today!!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artypartytt

Instagram: ARTYPARTYTT

Mobile Contact: (868) 717-1791

Periscope: @Sharrie9

Email: sharonburford9@yahoo.com

My Quick Picks for Valentine's Day

Posted on February 10, 2016by admin

1.Style them – The gift of style has come to be appreciated by men and women. Your significant other does not have to be a fashionista or a fashionisto to embrace fashion. I am sure they have their own sense of style whether they fancy fitness wear, artisan jewellery, handbags, spa essentials or accessories. Perhaps they are huge fans of sustainable living and they prefer ethical wear. If this is the case then I strongly suggest you make a fashion stop at Blue Basin Stores at the Cruise Complex in Port of Spain. Another bonus here is their sale of up to 50 % on local designer menswear, women apparel and accessories. Their sale ends on February 13th 2016 so visit them to find out more.

https://www.facebook.com/BlueBasin/info/?tab=overview

2. Wine them – It’s the season of love and romance is spilled from the glass of wine that runneth over; well at least for the “winos” out there. Now you can enjoy local wines aged to perfection in just five flavours: sorrel, spice, five finger, pommerac and jamun. These wines were aged for 5 years. All the wines are light to medium bodied, crisp and refreshing. They are available at Unwined Wine Bar, Trade Winds Hotel mini mart, On Deck Pub at Trade Winds Hotel, TnT Wine Cellar and of course directly from 11 Degrees North.

https://www.facebook.com/11-Degrees-North-656560257809429/?fref=ts

3. Chocolate Coat them – At #37 Fitt Street, Woodbrook on Thursday 11th February 2016 Medulla Art Gallery brings you Destination Chocolate’s Pop Up Shop. There you can purchase local artisan chocolate on sale and relish in tasting the “true trini sweet hand”. Some featured products include chocolate gift bags, cocoa products, truffles, cocoa nib brittle and dark chocolates from various local sommeliers in the local chocolate industry. You can also get your tickets for my next suggestion at this Pop Up event.

https://www.facebook.com/events/891391910981283/

4. Dine them – Locals love to adventure together into the realms of food. Mariposa Cafe in Lopinot Trinidad is nothing short of being an epic culinary journey. They are hosting their “Cocoa Inno Foosion” tasting event at Mariposa Gardens in Arouca on February 13th 2016. The highlights of the event include savoury and sweet cocoa creations, bean to bar demonstration and sampling and selling of various cocoa treats. The tickets for this event are $300.00 and are on sale at Medulla Art Gallery tomorrow. So if you or your loved one may be interested in the excitement feel free to check it out.

https://www.facebook.com/destinationchocolatett/?fref=ts

These are just a few awesome local finds right here in Trinidad for the 14th February 2016!! Whether you choose fashion, food or fun or all of them remember your dearest of them all is the gift of giving from your heart!!! Enjoy!!!

cANYAval returns for Trinidad Carnival 2016

Posted on January 13, 2016by admin

Carnival Monday Wear continues to dominate the Carnival fashion scene and carve out a niche of its own in Trinidad and the wider Caribbean. We wanted to know more about one particular brand that has been setting the pace for Carnival Fashion since the inception of Monday Wear that is cANYAval. We found out from the store manager of Exhibit A, Charissa Mohammed what she has to say about the brand.

Q: What is cANYAval?

A: cANYAval is a carnival inspired brand that offers an online retail platform (www.thecANYAvalshop.com) featuring apparel and accessories designed for the on the road, fete-ing and liming, with a host of contributing designers, whose lines are curated by founder, Anya Ayoung-Chee.

Q: Is that the only role of cANYAval?

A: cANYAval is also an events production company specializing in Carnival inspired experiences, held in Trinidad and in major cities such as New York and Los Angeles. cANYAval travels the world with carnivals collaborating with the bands throughout the world, including Toronto, Los Angeles, Jamaica, Barbados, and more.

Q: How can persons access cANYAval for purchase?

A: During the Trinidad Carnival season, Exhibit A hosts the cANYAval Pop Up Shop where all items available online are also available in store, the featured designers are hosted and carnival related activities are on constant rotation.

Q: Who are the designers for this year?

A: Keisha Als makes a return as well as lots of new collaborations from Rhion Romany to Summer Jade and so many more.

Q: Where can persons find more information on cANYAval?

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/thecanyavalshop/?fref=ts

Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/canyaval/

P.S.

There is a sale on last year’s Carnival Monday Wear

so hurry to the cANYAval website while stocks last!!!

Photo credits for article:

http://www.thecanyavalshop.com/

https://www.instagram.com/canyaval/

Mas’ Rebellion: The Rebirth of the Carnival Costume

Posted on December 30, 2015by admin

Carnival costuming has largely been a part of the fashion landscape in Trinidad’s fashion history. In the 1950’s creativity, new skills, new ideas, a more involved public, tactical and strategic wire bending, movement of costumes, architecture and engineering were recognized as key tenets in the construction of these costumes. It is in that same decade that Harold Saldenha won band of the year with his choreography and design for his presentation Imperial Rome 44 B.C. to 96 A.D. Another artist, Peter Minshall was incredibly instrumental in using architecture in his designs so costumes were lighter and their movement on masqueraders could be more balanced. He also introduced the theatrical side of Carnival with story boards for each presentation. These were relative to whatever the current situation in Trinidad was whether that was controversial, social or political.

Carnival is a rough two months away but it still falls in the year of 2016. It seems to be the year of change, rebirth and innovation in the spheres of design and fashion which are not exempted here in Trinidad. Here we see the reinvention of Carnival costumes for a new band to the mas foray. The name of that band is Mas’ Rebellion. They make their debut next year. At the heart of these rebels is their refusal of mas as just a parade through the streets. Whilst Carnival costuming has evolved and many genres of old and new and many more variations currently exist this band is affirming their rebellion against the current trends. They believe in giving life to the artform that once depicted art, beauty, politricks, commentary on state, society and humanity.

Heroes or Villains is the theme for next year’s presentation. Their storyboard for Carnival 2016 talks about the United States of Trinidad and it puts an interesting twist on the current political state of affairs in Trinidad. The characters in the band are all found in the story and they are either heroes or villains. You can read more about the story here http://masrebellion.com/index.php/storytime

Their creative director Keir Roopnarine collaborates with local designer Ayodhya Ouditt for 2016.

His biography is as follows;

Ayodhya is a designer, illustrator, and writer with a passion for science and the environment. He earned a BFA in industrial design at the Rhode Island School of Design, focusing on design for social change. His earliest memories involve scrawling dinosaurs on walls, bending wire for blue devils, and acting with Lilliput Children’s Theatre. Despite filling scores of sketchbooks with creatures and characters over the years, he eventually pursued design for social change, because of a desire to solve world problems. He has co-designed prospective medical products, illustrated for NPR’s science blogs, won ADDY awards for Collier Morrison Belgrave, hosted STEAM workshops with teachers at the Korean Gifted Summer Institute (St. John’s University, NYU), designed carnival and stage costumes for Lilliput, and produced the concept art for 2015 Carnival King, “Ahtwajé”. By day he is a design consultant with his mother and uncle (also experienced designers and artists), at Studiouditt. By night, he brings the Rebellion to life, through comics and costume. Like the others, he believes that Carnival need not compromise story and spectacle for the sake of sexiness. We can have all.

Biography & Photograph courtesy Mas’ Rebellion

(http://masrebellion.com/index.php/about-the-rebellion?id=114)

The rebellion’s design candidates who are either ‘Heroes or Villains’ include the Jacka Lantern, Red Queen, Pierrot Grenade, Soucouyant, Lagahoo, Midknight and Ibis in the story. However the Carnival costumes available for registration include Angelic Ibis, Lagahoo, Bookman, Soucouyant, Midknight, Vengeful Ibis, Blue Devil Clans and Red Devil Clans. More information on registration for the costumes is available here http://masrebellion.com/index.php/hov-costumes

Their mission and philosophy statements are as follows:

We believe in story and spectacle. You will embody a character, an idea or a concept. Your costume will be one piece of a greater whole: an epic story: told through bodies and motion; through colour, light and sound.

We believe in diversity. No one is too big or too small to be a Rebel. No one is too dark or too fair. No one is too gay or too straight. No one is too old or too young, and no one is too wassy or too stush! If you love our art and you love our costumes – you can be a Rebel! If you want to have a good time on the road – you can be a Rebel! If you want to get on bad bad bad – you can be a Rebel! If you want to stand up and take a small wine here and there – you can be a Rebel

They ask just three things from their masqueraders.

Love your body and your costume on the road
Respect each other and stay safe
Have a great time

Mission and Philosophy courtesy Mas Rebellion

(http://masrebellion.com/index.php/about-the-rebellion)

So there you have it 2016 promises to be a really interesting year for Trinidad.

To be part of the Mas’ Rebellion experience you can also follow them here

https://www.facebook.com/masrebellion/?fref=ts

"Trini" Alice in Filipino Wonderland

Posted on January 5, 2015by admin

The Honourable Dr. Eric Williams invited the Filipino community to Trinidad in 1964. This was just after his trip to the Far East. He may have realized that for such a skilled nation of 7,102 islands and over 103 million people it may have been competitive for the Filipinos to find work in their own job market. He may have also realized that this community which speaks English, Spanish and dialect Tagalog of Catholic and Muslim religions may have been similar to his multicultural state of Trinidad and Tobago. In addition, a lightning bolt idea probably struck him when he may have realized the resourcefulness and dual benefit to these citizens and to his Trinidad if he offered them employment by inviting these skilled professionals to fill the labour shortages in his country. Later they would arrive from the island of Cebu and the capital city of the Philippines, Manila to fill skill gaps as medical personnel, doctors, nurses, pharmacists and to assist with the restructuring of the then TELCO Trinidad telephone state services which were deplorable and affecting everyone including Dr. Eric Williams. Today, the estimated Filipino population in Trinidad is approximately over 1,000 persons. They are found in several skilled areas of engineering, medicine, construction, art, culture, business and culinary arts.

I have been fortunate to have been invited to their “potlucks” on several occasions (Birthdays and New Years Eve) to experience first hand Filipino culture. This is a house party with lots of Filipino food ( the Filipinos attending bring a dish or more to the table), karaoke singing and family (this does not necessarily mean blood relation but friends from the Filipino community in Trinidad). Filipino food is usually steamed or stir fried. Their diet is quite healthy and they consume less oil. Although, there is almost always the roasting of a pig over an open fire! This pig is stuffed with herbs and covered in coconut oil and roasted for flavor, texture and fat reduction! It is neither too salty or too sweet or too spicy but flavorful for the palate. Even if you are not family you are treated as though you are part of their household. There is plenty laughing and though they speak Tagalog their English is quite good and the “Trini” dialect as well! They are excellent hosts as they always make sure their guests are comfortable and happy. Their hospitality emanates like a pulsating aura of love and positive, clean, happy energy throughout their home from the minute they greet you throughout your stay even until you leave and get in your car ready to leave. One can reminisce that they went to the Philippines and returned to Trinidad as this culture immersion captivates individuals each time almost like magical realism to a “Trini” Alice in a “Filipino” Wonderland fairytale!

It is this very essence of culture immersion, adaptability and diversification that reflects how one nation, a twin island state can exist in peace with many others under one sun and one sky. Trinidad is blessed by this beautiful gem of multiculturalism. Even though we are many cultures the respect and appreciation for each other shout volumes of amplified unity and harmony as one body of a Trinbagonian identity.

So Live and Let Live,

Love and Be Loved,

Experience Culture & Respect Each Other

Represent Your Nation

Trinidad and Tobago

The True Caribbean

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago