Trinbago Adventures – Page 3 – Travel With A Purpose

Trinidad Carnival: The New Fashion Season

Posted on January 30, 2015by admin

International fashion gurus better stop the clock and change their calendar as there is a new fashion season in town. Although Carnival Fashion has been here a while its stamp is further embossed this year as it has grown to accommodate new fashion niches. Fashion is at an all time high during this time of the year! Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago is very different from the fashion weeks or fashion shopping months of other destinations. In this twin island state, Carnival may be perceived as two days of celebration but really it is a year round production as the cycle never ends. There are various genres of fashion as well as different concepts of “fashion houses” as they are mostly known as “mas camps” . Regardless, there is almost a certainty of some degree of creativity and expression reflected in design. This sentiment is transferred to the client who wears the item and immerses himself or herself to become one with the costume to play the role of masquerader.

(Photo Credit: http://www.redbullmusicacademy.com/magazine/moko-jumbies )

Trinidad Carnival has come a long way with wire bending, mental works and craft cutting skills that even require some knowledge of aerodynamics for some innovations. The evolution of Carnival has spanned many decades since the inception of emancipation. The freed colony donned shorts, skirts, blouses, head ties and t- shirts to play mas. The face mask was also popular. Even when they got banned from Carnival attire the emancipated people engineered a way to use the face mask as handheld masks. They would more often than not put them on in the event of the casual riots that took place after Carnival. But the creative people could only dream more fascinating costumes and decidedly crafted Sailor , Blue Devil, Moko Jumbie costumes to connect with African culture and reenact it in their newly adopted homeland.

(Photo Credit: http://www.tntisland.com/carnivalcharacters.html )

After World War II, Trinidad become home to many military folk. Hence, the inspiration to design military couture; gladiator style costumes, Grecian combat gear were inventive and spurred the design evolution on further. Pioneers like Peter Minshall came on the scene and used imported equipment and technology to speed up production for the demand or the output turnover of costumes in the mas camp . He continues to remain an icon for his contributions and portrayals that reflected the art of theater depiction and narrator style story telling in his Carnival mas concepts and productions.

(Photo Credit : https://www.facebook.com/pages/Peter-Minshall-Mas-Fans/477738325205 )

Over the years, a greater majority has pushed the Carnival artisans to their limit of filling this costume demand. Hence, the packaging of Carnival experience and costumes became prevalent. Today, there are younger masqueraders and designers. Nonetheless, the design has shifted to a ” less is more “ type of costume for some Carnival bands which are more popular with the young and upwardly mobile demographic who are concerned with their image.

( Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/PassionCarnival)

(Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pages/KIRK-THOMAS-MAKEUP-ARTISTRY/57188897348 )

There are a few designers who still contribute to avant garde costuming. Another evolution is the idea of Carnival Monday Wear. Designers found a new niche to satisfy clients who do not have the time to sift through boutiques or cut up t-shirts and create their own wear for Carnival Monday or simply “fete couture”. Notwithstanding, the colour of Carnival resonates throughout this type of apparel as it did for decades. Yet, now more than ever embellishments and accessories such as ear cuffs, nail glam, make up even hair dyes and hair cuts are speaking volumes of style by their far from evanescent hues.

(Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/k2kcarnival )

(Photo Credit: http://instagram.com/p/yZ9oGTMT7V/?modal=true )

(Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/chandramaharajswimwear )

A spin off from all of this is the fitness fixation to get that body ready for the two day Carnival Street Party. Again another fashion niche is well put together for this arena. Colourful leggings and fitness gear customized to enable flexibility, comfort and confidence for the masquerader who is sweating off those Christmas carbohydrates and fatty tissues at the gym.

(Photo Credit: http://instagram.com/chandramaharaj/?modal=true)

Overall, Trinidadian designers have creativity pulsing in their blood and passion for the arts as their veins. So whilst change continues in Carnival fashion the number of Carnival participants increases annually and the desire to create, differentiate and celebrate is still burning at the heart of every artisan. There is no doubt that Carnival fashion is the new season of this year’s fashion calendar for local and regional “fashionpreneurs” and experts. It won’t surprise me if international fashion associations, designers, stylists, models and entrepreneurs flee their snow ridden countries for a chance to capture a glimpse of the ethereal fashion experience of Trindad Carnival Fashion (often celebrities and socialites are welcomed to participate in the festivities every year). After all who would pass up embracing this opportunity up close and personal in the sunny isles of paradise!

Photo Credit:

( http://www.ncctt.org/new/index.php/media-centre/news/56-downtown-carnival-celebrations-events.html )

"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

COCO Dance Festival

Posted on October 3, 2014by admin

The COCO Dance Festival began in 2009 with dance professionals and founders Nancy Herrera, Sonja Dumas, Nicole Wesley and Dave Williams. This festival gives choreographers and dance professionals the opportunity to pioneer approaches to choreography and explore contemporary and post modern forms of dance. Moreover, there is much space to experiment with dance aesthetics. This festival is a dynamic force for propelling the Trinidad and Tobago Dance Industry. It fosters the development of collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches in the production of art, performance and lecture with The University of the West Indies and the University of Trinidad and Tobago’s dance programmes. Basically, it offers mentorship for emerging choreographers by giving them a professional platform for performance and experimentation with direction for development as their steward.

(NeoIndigenA – Santee Smith)

So far the work of founders as well as creative art and dance professionals from Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Canada and the U.S.A have been showcased. This year the festival has a guest cast of the New York Battery Dance Company (supported by the Embassy of the United States of America), The University of South Florida’s Dance Program, The University Dance Company of Texas Tech University (supported by Texas Tech University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts). The COCO screening committee also chose Akuzuru, Brittany Williams, Deliece Knights, Jacob Cino, Jelae Stroude-Mitchell, Jillene Forde, Juan- Pablo Alba- Dennis, Kinesha Charleau, Sade Chance and Santee Smith to perform. The COCO community outreach programme has selected finalists from the Prime Minister’s Best Village Trophy competition to make their contribution. Other dance entities participating include Ibis Dance Company directed by Sherma Burke, New Edition by Jodie Daniel, Eh Beh Oui Don Don directed by Kizzy Murray. founders and directors like Sonja Dumas and Dave Williams will also feature their work.

(Summer Fall – Sean Scantlebury – New York Battery Dance Company)

The calendar of activities include a free film series( four french films in collaboration with L’Alliance Francaise), the annual COCO awards and the COCO Dance Festival programme of performances. There is also the community outreach initiative with a series of master dance classes that are being facilitated by local and foreign dance professionals at TTD$40.00 per class. The types of dance forms include contemporary modern, contemporary Amerindian, Zena Rommet Floor Barre and Modern African Caribbean techniques. The COCO Dance Festival itinerary starts on Friday October 3, 2014 at 6:30 p.m. (inclusive of the COCO Awards). On Saturday October 4, 2014 there will be outdoor/indoor spatial presentation at 6:30 p.m. However, showtime is at 7:30 p.m. On Sunday October 5, 2014 there is an outdoor/indoor spatial presentation at 5:30 p.m with showtime at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are only TTD$100.00. They are available at Alliance Francaise, The Bread Basket in St. Ann’s and Woodbrook, participating choreographers and Queen’s Hall.

(Oshe – Sherma Burke – Ibis Dance Company)

After being invited to attend the dress rehearsal for the COCO Dance Festival last evening at the Queen’s Hall we realize the commitment that this country (public and private stakeholders) has made to its creative arts industry. This is not to be taken lightly. An industry can only grow and develop further from partnership, collaboration, stakeholder relationship, excellent quality and quantity of resources, zero tolerance for laissez faire attitudes, an ambition to improve, a strong recognition for standards and their maintenance of them. They identify that dance is an art form and like true connoisseurs of this art form Sonja Dumas and her team appreciate that there is no room for sub standards. Rehearsal after rehearsal they must get it right because the international stage is watching. But this is not the only reason. Aside from the fact that this is the social media era where any click on a camera phone literally puts Trinidad and Tobago on the map Sonja and everyone participating must ensure that quality of production is up to par because this affects end result of production.

(Intomergence – Jeane Travers)

The design thinking behind costumes, choreography, musical arrangements, programme structure all tie together to evoke emotions and convey the visionary’s (committee’s ) concept. Last evening, locals and foreigners performed on the same stage. There was a high rank of execution and delivery to the audience. However, there was enough clarity to distinguish among the Caribbean, American and Canadian dance professionals. Simply, each contingent owned their dance aesthetic identity which is most important in any art form. I could not choose a favourite for the night because they were all exceptional. They communicated a plethora of undertones; love, happiness, sadness, pain, struggle, freedom,celebration and so much more which were easily identifiable. The couples, solos, trios, groups were all on point. Their exchange and collaboration made for the perfect night allowing the viewers to vicariously live through their performance. (Yes it was that authentic even though we were just observing!) Yet, it was the design management of the production that allowed for the COCO Dance Festival to be identified as such a superior creative arts brand in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean.

(Striking – Jacob Cino)

Overall, the advent of training sessions, the exposure to foreign work and these outstanding dance personas, the support of local dance institutes, production companies, the passion for dance and the national pride exist to promote the art form as an international brand with its distinct aesthetic. They signify advance development for the creative arts sector in Trinidad and Tobago. The “powers that be” should carefully consider the magnanimous implications of future development and promotion of the creative arts sector. The COCO Dance Festival is already a box office hit. One can only suggest that creative arts as a solution to the migraine of diversification in Trinidad and Tobago (an ironically already diverse destination) would result in the catapulting of a more sustainable and stronger economy.

So what are you still waiting for?

Go get your tickets!

Don’t miss out on this experience!

https://www.facebook.com/COCODanceFest

Thank you Liza Miller ( Estuary PR)

for your invite to cover

The COCO Dance Festival

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

The Nest Visitors Accommodation

Posted on September 3, 2014by admin

Basically, this bed and breakfast chateau is easily accessible, affordable and exonerating. I have known the property owner for some years and it is safe to say his guests are undeniably in some of the most hospitable hands of the south land. Rarely, you would meet a proprietor who has developed a business for their genuine passion; travel, hospitality, tourism and people than monetary gain. I believe this is what sets him apart from the other operators. This love and passion is transferred to business caricature by extension client and owner relationships. This is a service industry; hospitality and tourism so people remember how you make them feel!

The Nest Visitors Accommodation is located at Hunte Street, De Gannes Village Siparia. Yes Siparia the neighbour to “Barra Town” or Debe Food Stalls, Fun Splash Water Park, La Divina Pastora ( The Black Madonna) and Daisy Voisin, a former parandero. This culturally steeped community is nestled in the countryside of the south land. However, it is certainly not all quaint as one can be at the heartbeat of the bustling commercial centre and local farmers’ market in two minutes. Other towns and areas are also easily accessible from there.

At The Nest Visitors Accommodation there are 3 self contained units for the guests. Each room can hold between one to four persons. Each apartment has a kitchenette, dining area, common area, toilet and bath, cable television, air conditioning, free wi-fi, hot and cold shower. The first unit has washing facilities. There is off street parking. The local police units are only five minutes away. It is a safe area for guest who want to escape and relax in their own nest. The rooftop view is simply amazing as on clear sky days one can see the breathtaking San Fernando Hill. Also, guests can request meals, pick ups and guided tours if they need to since these amenities are available. The rates are usually from USD$50.00 – USD$70.00 but this may depend on the season. The Nest Visitors Accommodation can also be used to facilitate your next event.

So far The Nest Visitors Accommodation attracts many international guests researchers, couples, families, culture enthusiasts and local “staycationers”. So if you have not been there yet I recommend you go check them out!

Click the links to find out more!!

http://www.rentmeavacation.com/rental2752

https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Nest-Visitors-Accommodation-Siparia/143941335639851

Maday Maday! Resort Bug Alert!

Posted on July 8, 2014by admin

While Trinidad has been famed for being the New York of the Caribbean or The Metropolitan Hub of the West Indies it is only obvious that we would see meetings, investment, conventions and enterprise developments to ally with our tourism sector. Special interest tourism niches have been developing to keep close to our vision from our National Tourism Policy as part and parcel to diversify our economy. A nation dependent on oil and gas and industrial and manufacturing sectors for its GDP rations has yet again been receiving continued support from the private sector to boost the nation’s identity and what may seem as a step backward may be a step into the future.

Private entities are exploring options of the scenic landscapes of Trinidad and are capitalizing on developing five star resorts for visitors and tourists as well as locals. It seems that an attempt to push the country back to a 1980’s status of resort ridden images of mass tourism that could create a tourist arrival boom yet destroy the harmony that coexists here may not be so ideal. Even our tourist specialists and tourism research consultants might be spitting out their callaloo in uproar and gasping at the blatant disregard for Butler’s Tourist Area Life Cycle (stages of destination in its tourism life cycle) or Plog’s theory ( type of tourists attracted to a destination). However, these entrepreneurs may be on to something when they decided to promote accessibility for locals in a staycation type campaign.

(callaloo)

The inescapable terrors of last minute booking to our sister isle paradise can be soon subsided as new options promote secure, clean, green, attractive accommodations and entertainment for families, couples and friends who love to take the “lime” with them. Why not give back to the people who work hard to develop their nation, support their families and yes contribute to increasing the annual GDP? Don’t they deserve something nice that they can call their own that is not too far out of reach for them?

I think it’s about high time people woke up and smelled the “bush tea”. Come on man! Citizens who feel that they are part of a nation and that they contribute or can enjoy the fruits of their labour and feel proud of their destination will either instantly or eventually realize their role to pick up the slack and become their country’s brand ambassador and brother and sister’s keeper. Perhaps, bonuses include increased self esteem, ownership, sense of pride, more linkages, sense of belonging and hopefully in the not so far future there will be more solidarity! (Well I guess we just have to watch and see how this turns out shall we?!)

(lemon grass also called fever grass for fever grass tea)

The two resorts that I have seen pop up on the scene are Clifton Hill Beach Resort and Queen’s Beach Hotel and Holiday Resort Ltd. Queen’s has been opened in 2012 which is fairly recent and its location is in Mayaro. Clifton Hill Beach Resort is in Point Fortin and has been gradually opening to the public as they complete each stage of development in 2014. The irony of these two locations may be that they are both located in oil and gas industrial districts yet exist in the ecosystem of serene and beautiful beaches, southern hospitality, mouth watering cuisine and non stop activity. Locals can now explore their other avenues than guest houses and bed breakfast units.

Moreover, locals and tourists can actually mingle.Tourists can also benefit by getting a more authentic experience as they actually interact with the locals. Since Clifton Hill has been opened it has been receiving an overwhelming turn out from locals island wide. So all you have to do is take a road trip to the resort and check it out yourselves or try the age old ‘word of mouth’ reviews. “Trinis” are our own harshest critics( although I still think “Seeing is believing”). So heads up Airport and Port Authority you just might have a situation (no not the Jersey Shore dude with the Abs) when the skies get busy and the roles are reversed just a bit for our fellow “Tobagonians” courtesy the attack of the Trinidad Resort Bug!

In case you have been bitten please try to contact the following units immediately!!!!

1. Queens Beach Hotel and Holiday Resort

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Queens-Beach-Hotel-Holiday-Resort-Limited/1896480677574372

2. Clifton Hill Beach Resort

https://www.facebook.com/cliftonhillbeachresorttt

Meanwhile try to contact every possible friend and relative who may be able to help you with the following

My ‘Do Not Forget’ List

UV Sunglasses
Camera / Underwater Camera
Organic Sunscreen (I like organic)
Swim wear and glam wear (not necessary but the choice is yours)
Open mind
Open heart
Leave your stress and worries at home
Add whatever else you want…

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

REPRESENT

Steve Ouditt Unrehearsed

Posted on April 10, 2014by admin

He is unrehearsed, unforgiving, and a relentless brawn of a one of a kind Trinidadian artist. Conveniently, his studio is currently located in Woodbrook, Trinidad upstairs the Costa Rican embassy at 38 Carlos Street next to the Church of God. I advise the visitor to leave your preconceived notions about art at the roadside before you enter that gate. Try to walk in like a blank canvas to soak in the wealth of expression and inspiration about to be bestowed upon you. Oh yes, Steve Ouditt is definitely the game changer you need to be wary of because antics, skill, creativity and perspective will blow you away! ( Of course I did not take any pictures! In other words… “get up and go see yourself.”)

Steve Ouditt is an entrepreneur, designer , artist who exudes the beacon of pioneer. His education and practice has taken him global with several documented publications on his work in Germany, China, Jamaica, India, Holland, London, Australia and the USA to name a few. It’s amazing how he’s been able to realize his potential internationally then to return to share that knowledge and experience in his life with whomever he has that interaction and his profession where he lectures at The University of the West Indies. Often some artists are chauvinistic, egocentric and tend to be more boldface than their work. However, Steve Ouditt has the tenacity to expose to society the reality of life in his fearless, daring and sometimes disturbing pieces of work. Yet, he maintains that keen sense of humility often reflected in his hospitality. Humility, undying passion for social change, art and design, his global experience, Trinidadian identity can only spur him on to move more mountains.

Its amazing to see an artist who has carved out a distinct niche of art form that is exceptional and full of caricature. I feel proud to be Caribbean being at his studio. I see my Trinidadian aesthetic and heritage brought out in every drawing and work of art. The aesthetic I see is not so much of fruits and vegetables but a reflection of our identity, psychology our genetic and societal being that’s been consumed by the artist, absorbed and spilled out on a canvas in perspectives inspired by our life. He is known for his work with mental health as this was his first showing in his home country since being away for so long. It’s astounding how the location of this studio is so ideal. It is smack in the middle of the heart beat of the island where one can observe the human puppets playing out a sweet strain of life jeered on by the puppet master that is society. Every visitor feels welcomed at the studio with open arms and “irie” island vibes. You are treated like you belong rather like you have the blessing of being witness to life unfolding in different bits or pieces.

So artisans, future designers and creative junkies and you my dear reader get up and go check it out ..this is not your typical design studio… I promise!

Also see his Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/steve.ouditt

The Magnificent Hayes Court- Project Restoration

Posted on January 13, 2014by admin

Pilgrims walk the holy land of Israel, visit the Taj Mahal Temple in India and take a journey to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. In Trinidad a romantic stroll, a jog or a drive by Hayes Court just one of The Magnificent Seven around the Queen’s Park Savannah has similar bearing and contributory value to society. Hayes Court is a residence for Anglican Bishops. It is a beautiful landmark with British and French architectural influences she stands proud just across the street from Queens Royal College. Her aged and withered soul has 140 years of an earful and eyeful of cataclysmic change in the land. She was named after Bishop Thomas Hayes who has never been able to occupy residence there. Today, her 5 bedrooms are uninhabitable.

A cocktail launch last Friday served as the kick starter for pledges to restore Hayes Court. A dance recital by the The Continuum Dance Project, a literary affair from a Pierrot Grenade and imparting of knowledge from the Bishop animated the evening’s itinerary. Attendees included former Hayes Court architect , The Honorary Consul to Barbados, Mr. Audley Walker, The Minister of National Diversity and Social Integration, The Honourable Senator Rodger Samuel, German Ambassadors, other distinguished guests, the media and a warm hosting by Liza Miller and her business partner from Estuary PR company. It was noted that former bake sales by the Anglican church have raised a quarter of a million dollars for the restoration of Hayes Court. Yet, this is not enough to absorb the total repair cost in excess of 24 million Trinidad and Tobago dollars. However, other plans to start tours and open the garden premises to host groups for garden parties and weddings are also on the agenda for boosting funds for restoration of Hayes Court. If proceeds do not meet the need for restoration in a timely manner then this relic would be lost in time forever.

Anglicanism spread throughout the world by teachings from the Anglican missionaries. In 1534 CE this period of reformation set the tone for the birth of a hybrid religion between the Protestant and Catholic faith. It was called Anglicanism. In 2006, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams declared Anglicanism to be distinct from other Christian faiths based on the following. It was the reformed commitment to the priority of the Bible. It also became a Catholic loyalty to the Sacramento and threefold ministry of bishops, priests and deacons. It is noted for a habit of cultural sensitivity and intellectual flexibility that does not seek to close down unexpected questions too quickly. Today it has approximately 80 million members and is the third largest Christian community after Roman Catholicism and The Eastern Orthodox Church. It is these tenets that encompass a faith that embossed the reformation and freedom.

Yet, today as an industrial twin island state we are poised forward as the business hub of the Caribbean. The diversified economy and attractive climate for investment takes us up a notch on the scale of developing country status. While the state is nowhere near its colonized state one can rest assured that this former colony has come a long way to be such a diamond in the rough. However, it is quite odd that a stalwart that symbolizes and boasts of a faith that sparked the ingenuity for change, equal rights, freedom and independence is held with such little regard by its own independent republic state. Hayes Court is an extraordinary marvel of architecture that depicts a pretty picture worth more than a thousand words. It is a statutory emblem of a plight and fight of a people once held captive but now free. The failure to repair and maintain this building will only lead to the axing of one of The Magnificent Seven which adorns the world’s largest roundabout Queen’s Park Savannah. It will serve as the demarcation of a memory and history of the people. But most importantly it will remain an agony to the existing Trinidad and Tobago society and the generations yet to come.

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago would like to extend a heartfelt gratitude to estuary Pr and Hayes Court for hosting us !

Join the movement! – #fashionconsciouscricketcouture

Posted on August 7, 2013by admin

The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Twenty20 Cricket Tournament is a hot topic with locals in Trinidad. Recently, Marylebone Cricket Club drafted a dress code which permits entrance into the Lord’s Cricket grounds. Some of these include shirts with collars for gentlemen but no polo shirts, T-shirts or anything made of denim. Whilst the ladies are banned from wearing bikini tops, bare midriffs, leggings without skirt. There is even a picture card to reinforce what the ideal dress code looks like. This immediately makes me think whether our cricket club needs to instill a few of these rules at Queen’s Park Oval? Our islanders are noted for wearing the said banned clothing items.Basically, this could be a good thing or a bad thing. My personal opinion is that this definitely spurs a fashion conscious cricket movement that could sweep the entire Caribbean!

So if we were to endorse these rules I still think our Caribbean designers would be able to add pomp and flair to Cricket Couture. The Art of Wear has a retro collection that maintains that golden era look with Hollywood pizzazz and an exotic twist of colour. Some of the designer’s dresses are at knee length and would work wonderfully for the event. Meiling has a few pieces in her Shirt Tales collection that speak volumes about classy couture that can be included for a Cricket finish. While there are other designers that would be on demand I believe Deron Attz and his tribal prints can make an eloquent but maintain the Caribbean’s ethnic aesthetic in its appearance at the cricket pavilion. These are my quick picks for CPL Cricket Couture!

Come out and support your team Red Steel Trinidad and Tobago!

Join the movement- #fashionconsciouscricketcouture

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago!! REPRESENT!!

Hafiz Grill and Pasta Hut

Posted on July 29, 2013by admin

It was a breezy tropical night on the beautiful isle of Trinidad. I was starving as my dinner time had already expired. There was so little time with my other engagement taking place in about 2 hours. I had to find a restaurant and I really was not settling for a typical fast food night. Finally, my friends and I decided to head down to Dinsley Junction. We turned left and continued on the main road. The hunt was definitely on for some quality food and ambiance at a reasonable price! I know way too much wishful thinking right! As we approached some food shops I saw a grill and pasta hut that looked clean and the car park was near full. I wailed for the driver and my friends to stop! We scampered out the vehicle and into Hafiz Grill & Pasta Hut for a very chillax evening!

The interior decor at Hafiz is chic but not overdone. The decor boasts of warm tones of red and green with chic chandeliers. The couches are perfect for customers waiting to pick up their order. The dining area also has some classy looks with details of glass tables. The seating at the window is accompanied by soft lit candles for couples or pairs. It stirs ample vibes for friendship, close family and loved ones. The music is hip and not too loud just enough to keep the ambiance lively without people falling asleep or turning it into a sports bar! Hafiz Grill and Pasta Hut is fabulous for family and the loved ones to catch up on old times or spend quality time together. Obviously, they put a lot of thought into every stage of decor and site planning. There is even an employee outside in the car park for security and parking purposes. How cool is that?! Especially since that particular main road is always enveloped with traffic!

Hafiz Grill and Pasta Hut has a variety of menu selections. There are lamb, fish, chicken combos, popcorn chicken, burgers, pastas, smoothies, dessert cakes and milk shakes. The smiling, dancing very skilled chef gives you the food! You can see what’s going on in the kitchen since it is directly in front of you.The price is right at Hafiz Grill and Pasta Hut. There were 5 orders with drinks and we could not complain about the food bill because it was under TTD$200.00. The quantity is more than enough for one serving! Usually, when I order an overpriced dinner I never have leftovers. My pasta primavera was steeped in marinara sauce and I was able to have 3 portions from that one serving. My friends were surprised when they ordered combos and I was the first to be served. They anticipated that pasta would have taken longer and I would have been served last. They were even more astonished that the popcorn chicken came in such a huge quantity and was so yummy even including a side of fries.

I am such a food critic when it comes to dining out. I guess my experience from being around international chefs from high end hotels and restaurants when I travel can be blamed for this as well as my passion for hospitality and tourism. I look at customer service, cleanliness, ambiance, quality, quantity of food and pricing among other things. They topped my checklist. My friends and I all loved the “Hafiz Experience” . The owners obviously have a vision for this place and I can’t wait to see only better, more exciting and fabulous things to come from Hafiz Grill and Pasta Hut!

If you are ever in the area I recommend Hafiz Grill and Pasta Hut!

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

REPRESENT!!

Summer Love – Romance Isle Tobago

Posted on July 12, 2013by admin

So while the Brits are swooning, cuddled up and smooching in their parks we remember its summer time. While we do not quite have summer here we have two seasons and our July / August months are mistakenly and affectionately called summer. It’s that time of the year where we profess our love for the beach, the cooler parties and band launches and yes as the latest reggae/ dancehall and soca vibes have been crooning “couple up” season. There is no sweeter place to “couple up” than Trinidad and Tobago.So this time around I will definitely say cheers to our sister isle Tobago.

Unlike the party hard sister isle of Trinidad, our Tobagonian counterpart is better known for the most photographed jetty in the world. It has the more laid back attitude and even more gorgeous ambiance of coral reef waters and a very irie romance vibe. The beautiful thing about Tobago is this Summer love can last a life time because these favourable weather conditions exist year round! So you can let the beach waves romance you and dive into the spunky activities on the island like kite surfing, scuba diving or snorkeling. “Couple up” and sail out on a sunset cruise that ends with a beach party. Don’t forget to savor the warm sunsets while horseback riding on the beach or swim with the horses while the Caribbean breeze plays with your hair. An island tour can be done in a day so escape to your romance destination today.

If you are worried about dining options you can relax. The isle has intercontinental, Italian, German, French cuisines, island seafood and due to several indigenous influences it still has its own signature dishes such as curry crab and dumpling. Cocoa Estates, hoteliers, cafes and restaurants like Ciao Cafe or King’s Bay Cafe has enough menu options to keep you and that special someone steeped in interest so there is never a dull moment. So be sure to check out our food review experts online at Trinichow and make your checklist for your future visit to Romance Isle Tobago.

Summer Love is in the air and you have your ticket in hand already but you are unsure about your accommodation. This totally depends on your couple personality. Yes I said it couple personality! If you want to rediscover your romance and spark your love’s interest there are a plethora of options on the island with some unique twists. If you are searching for an eco resort then check out the salt water pool at the main eco resort on the island at Cuffie River Nature Retreat which is situated near one of the oldest rainforests in this side of the hemisphere, The Main Ridge. Cuffie River is the eco tourism resort model on the island and also an award winning resort for its sustainability. However, if you are interested in holistic wellness and spiritual bonding then you need to check out Kariwak which has complimentary yoga and tai chi sessions. Also they won the table talk food award for best lunch this year. Other than that there are luxury options such as The Villas at Stonehaven or The Magdalena Grand situated on an elegant golf course and former plantation.

An underwater love affair awaits my diving buddies in Tobago. My scuba diving fanatics, the Manta Lodge is your scuba haven. Tobago has several prized diving locations that are also available throughout the year. Mostly, the coral reef protects it from bad weather conditions and change in under water climate. . This island has been dubbed the Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe Island . The details in the author’s book suggest the island is near the mouth of the Great “Orinoque” River. The 4^th edition of Defoe’s book depicts a map of an island within 2 degrees latitude of Tobago. Crusoe’s ship is shown sailing on the North Coast of Brazil heading toward Barbados but also being in line with the ship wreck at Rockly Bay on the South West coast of Tobago. So this could very well be the Robinson Crusoe island. Get ready to be enchanted!

So darlings your summer love awaits you! Do savor the moment an act upon love’s true quest! Come to Romance Isle !

Come to Tobago Today!