Drinking fresh coconut water, eating tropical fruits in season, enjoying cool breezes and views of swaying coconut tree leaves. The many treasures of spending time on an island. Here is me drinking fresh coconut water and enjoying the pure country life.
Some Trinidad highlights!
Lady Chancellor Hill. The is a hike with views of Port-of-Spain which is the capital of Trinidad. It is not far from Queen’s Park Savannah: a carnival hotspot. I would not say that it is a super difficult hike. It is about two miles. The views are breath-taking and that is my favorite part about it.
Views
Bamboo Cathedral. It is located in Chagaraumas, Trinidad not far from Macqueripe Beach. Hardest hike of my life. It is literally an upward hill that does not end or at least it felt that way. There were 27 markers with 27 being the last marker.
There were some very encouraging messages on the way to the top (being sarcastic)
Whoever did this should be in jail haha
Absolute mockery lol
While me and my mother were scoffing for air and had to pause, we saw an older man coming down and we asked, “how much longer,” in which he replied 27, while I believe we were at marker 15 or 16. He definitely made us look out of shape as he chuckled but stated that we made it past the hardest part. I do not know if I fully believe that to be a true statement.
Anyways, after some more trekking, we finally made it to the end. You will see an older abandoned building from when this location was a U.S. base. Going up those steps was scarier than it looked. Inside was just broken glass and junk.
Though this hike was difficult, I felt so good at the end of it. Relating this back to life, the harder your path is, the more fulfilling and rewarding the fruit will be.
After this hike, we cooled off at Macqueripe Beach.
I know this may not seem like the typical island highlight, but I will say the movies. In Trinidad, the most popular place to catch a movie is called Movie Towne, but it literally looks like a movie town. It is clean and the food is great. Me, my brother, and uncle went to see Superman, and before the movie began, we were already chowing down.
Wings and Fries
Lastly, Las Cuevas Beach. This is a beach in North Trinidad so it is a good drive from the South. It is in the hills so the views are spectacular. There is the Maracas Lookout on the way to the beach that we always stop at to get goodies and stretch our legs.
Las Cuevas Beach
And when we come to Las Cuevas, we can’t NOT get bake and shake. We went by Uncle Sam’s Bake and Shark and it did not disappoint.
Overall a refreshing time. Looking forward to next time.
I have been traveling to Trinidad since childhood for summer vacation. I am blessed to have a great amount of family that still lives on the island, though many relatives have moved abroad, mostly to the U.S. With that being said, my stays in Trinidad along with the beach days and tropical adventures, also consist of many many visits to the houses of relatives including aunts, uncles, grandparents, great aunts and uncles etc.
As I have gotten older into adulthood, those visits have become shorter and shorter for various reasons, the biggest reason being death. I remember visiting at least 7-10 homes when I was younger to our various relatives’ homes, and just recently, we only visited one house of our great(older) relatives. And of course there are some relatives that we do not always get to see during every visit, just to clarify.
This causes a feeling of sadness and nostalgia for how life used to be but a level of maturity in accepting the cycle of life.
There was a seat my grandfather used to sit in located in the kitchen of my grandma’s house that is just now an empty space. I remember I used to grab his arm and he would squeeze my hand and I would just mess with him. I have many videos of him dancing and laughing in that space and other spaces around the house, and there is just this emptiness and sadness without him there.
My paternal grandmother’s house still has her presence and legacy, but without her, it is just not the same. I think of all of the memories of visiting her, eating plums from her plum tree, and enjoying a well-prepared meal of rice, stewed chicken, red beans and callaloo. I had an uncle who used to live there who also passed away, and his presence is still felt, though not there, but missed greatly.
Another painful yet necessary part of life is seeing relatives age and having to adjust to a different dynamic. The conversations become shorter and our interactions a little less lively. They can no longer accompany you on some of your adventures as their bodies do not have the strength anymore. They may have to go to bed a little earlier. They may have even forgotten you.
My grandfather was born in Trinidad. His name is Stewart but we all either called him, “grandpa,” or “Stewarty Boy.” In Trinidad, it is super common to give people names other than their real name.
My earliest memories of him are around age 4, though my mother tells me we’ve been close since birth. When I was a baby and could not speak, I would communicate to my grandfather by pointing and using signals, and he understood.
I have memories of him in the U.S. and Trinidad.
My grandfather was one of a kind. He could be described as adventurous, generous, a little sneaky, funny, charismatic, and very organized(he drove us crazy with this one haha). He was always smiling, dancing, and happy. He never stayed upset for super long, so I have very few memories of him, angry. If I could show you the many pictures or videos of him, he was either smiling, talking, or dancing. He had such an appetite for life, even in his old age.
In Trinidad, he would take me and my cousins for rides. He was not someone who could stay at home for long and was always on his feet. While driving around certain areas, he would point to houses and say, “that’s all allyuh family,” while we try not to laugh.
He would tell us stories and sing different tunes. One of his specialties was making fried pork. We used to beg him to make it, and were never disappointed. My grandfather loved to play card games such as “All Fours, Rummy, Go to Pack, and much more. It is very rare that he ever lost a game and his cheating game was strong too, LOL. He also was always cleaning the yard, whether it be sweeping away water, dust, and leaves or picking up leaves from the ground. It would bother him too much to leave it as it was.
When I was younger, he was in the U.S. for some time. You have to remember, my grandfather is accustomed to small island life in Trinidad where everyone knows each other and it is community-centered, so when he came to the states, he would act very foreign, and it was hilarious. He would feed the birds, and once a bird really flew into the house. He would sometimes yell people’s names in public and talk to strangers about lord knows what. When he saw a deer, rabbit, or small animal, he wanted to hunt it to eat. Also, whenever I got a cut or bruise, he SWORE putting salt on it would cure it, and he would NEVER let me escape it.
Fun memory: My grandfather made us a cricket bat and bench out of wood in our backyard.
Funny story: my cousin’s rabbit died. What did my grandfather do?
He performed CPR, gave the rabbit a tablet with milk, and guess what? The rabbit was revived for a little but eventually died.
But this all goes to show you how my grandfather operated. He was truly one of a kind.
Unfortunately, as my grandfather grew older, he had slight dementia. Because of this, we had to stop allowing him to drive, because he could get lost or be in a dangerous situation. He was confined to being home for about the last 10 years, and it was hard for him at first, as he was always on the go. At first, he would constantly beg to go on drives, (which people did take him on from time to time), and try to escape, but eventually, he settled.
He was still himself in that he would clean the yard, talk excessively, dance, and wander around, which was a good thing.
My last time seeing him was this past Christmas. I have to tell you, it was the quietest I’d ever seen him. He still talked, but very gently, and it was harder for him to move around compared to the past. He did seem a little sad, but once you talked to him and engaged him, he would smile and open up. He only ate a very little and lost a significant amount of weight.
I did not think it would be my last time seeing him but I did sense that his time was probably coming. I remember hugging him and taking a few selfies before heading to the airport. I was a wreck inside but kept it together.
With all of that being said, I am so thankful that God gave my grandfather 93 long years and even let us spend our last time with him for Christmas. He is the best grandfather a girl could have and I am so blessed to have had him in my life.
He is already missed so much but he is with Jesus and we will reunite.
I had the great pleasure of going to Trinidad this summer for two weeks. It has been five years since I was last there, so this trip was very special.
Before I could even start walking, I was covered in Trinidad sand(many photos to show). I have been going to Trinidad since childhood. The beauty of that is I have a second home and an unbreakable bond.
Upon exiting the airport, I smelled the fresh island air, and it felt so good. Memories and sentiments started to flood my soul. “SHE’S BACK”, I whispered to myself.
With all of that being said, my vacations in Trinidad are not the typical resort, beach, and sand vacation. Because I have family on the island, I stay with family, particularly by my grandma’s house in the countryside. You know what that means? Waking up to roosters, longer drives, nice breezes, more space, and one thing about the countryside is there are more vendors and family businesses. If you wanted some McDonalds or Subway, it would be a good drive(not that I recommend that HAHA).
What I love about staying with family is I get to experience real life in Trinidad. I get to experience driving around different areas, going to local markets/vendors, taking public transportation, eating authentic cuisine( everything tastes better in Trinidad, no lie), going to the mall or movies, different beaches and overall just doing more than what I would usually do on any other island. It literally feels more like I am living there as opposed to a vacation, which is very cool.
I admire the pureness of the countryside. Residents do not seem to care about appearance and their way of life is very simple. I could not help but notice how different island life is, compared to life in the United States. It is just very slow, unbothered, and chill, which is why it makes for a great escape from the bustling life of the USA.
Keeping it real though, whenever going on an island, like Trinidad, you have to make some adjustments!
Let’s talk about THE MOSQUITOES. Ya girl got RAVISHED. The thing about Trinidad is it is hot all year, and therefore, houses such as the one I stayed in, may have small holes as a design, meaning any bug or creature can come in. Doors and windows also remain open for fresh breezes. So, it is not uncommon to see a lizard running on top of the ceiling, a swarm of ants somewhere, or being devoured by mosquitoes inside. It felt like my legs were on FIRE. Like 100 mosquitoes attacking me at once. The insects in the Caribbean are just on another level, if you know, you know.
Driving in the countryside requires a bit more effort and patience, because some of the roads are not in the best condition (potholes, bumps, narrowness) and there are many twists and turns. Where we stayed was a good distance from the beach and other sites, so the rides could be bumpy, swirly, and long, depending on the area.
It gets dark around 7 so the day may feel shorter and some businesses close early, so there is that to consider. You do not have the luxury to just jump on the road and try to make a late-night run, depending on the area. You have to be mindful of traffic, because you may not have an alternate way to get to a specific destination. You have to be mindful of crime, especially if you are in an unfamiliar area. The police are not as reliable as in the U.S.A, so you have to follow your instincts.
Bottom line, there is just more to consider. I REALLY noticed that during this trip. I have to make another post about this topic, because there is just so much to say.
MY NUMBER ONE highlight of my trip was spending time with family!!! My maternal grandmother is the only grand-parent who can still travel and use technology, so thankfully I still get to see her in both countries. However my maternal grandfather and paternal grandmother are in their 90’s and cannot travel anymore. I loved the quality time I was able to spend with all of them. My grandfather still dances, is a neat freak and is always cleaning the yard, and still has his goofy personality. My paternal grandmother is still sharing stories and on her feet. Man, what a blessing that is, to still have them.
GRANDPAAAAPATERNAL GRANDMA ❤
I also enjoyed time with my aunts, uncles, and immediate family by going to the beach, restaurants, relative’s homes, day trips to Port-of-Spain and Paramin, and just being in the motherland!!
There is just something special about being in the place that birthed many of my ancestors and plays a role in my identity. I always feel so warm in T&T!!!!
My favorite activities were the Caroni Bird Sanctuary, Paramin Tour, U-Pick farm restaurant, Macqueripe Beach, and Port-of-Spain.
The Caroni Bird Sanctuary is a swamp ride through the Caroni River. The highlight of the tour is seeing the Scarlet Ibis birds, very bright red and beautiful birds. The first hour of the ride, we were surrounded by trees, and the tour guide would stop to point out snakes, crabs, other creatures, and history. My favorite part of the tour was seeing the birds. The birds are the most visible in the most open and spacious part of the river. We passed flamingos, and the boat motor was turned off at this part. One word to describe this: tranquil. Breathing in the tangy marshy air, seeing the birds fly graciously over the trees, and feeling overwhelmed by the sound of the river, was indescribably peaceful.
U-Pick Farm Restaurant is near Macqueripe beach. We originally wanted to have breakfast under the bamboo trees, but an event was taking place there. Instead, we had breakfast inside of the building. The ingredients are fresh, so do not expect a super sweet smoothie, haha, but I love that the food and drinks are healthier. I had the chicken and waffles with a berry refreshing smoothie: the waffles were AMAZING and the chicken was 7/10. I enjoyed my smoothie and loved that it was in a cute mason jar. I definitely recommend it.
Macqueripe Beach is in northern Trinidad. It is one of my favorite beaches because the water is clear and refreshing. It is also very scenic. This is a beach where you have to be careful, because there is a drop. It used to be a submarine base.
PARAMIN TOUR!!!!
I had never been to Paramin before this trip. Paramin is a mountainous village located in Northern Trinidad. It is part of Maraval. Two words to describe it: MOUNTAINOUS YET MARVELOUS. A tour guide drove us around the area. No lie, it felt like I was on a roller coaster: there were ups, downs, and swirls. I was really praying on this ride (LOL), because of how narrow the roads are and the fact that it is on a mountain, you have to be very careful and strategic, or else you can get into a serious accident.
The tour guide drove us around while explaining the history of the area, teaching us some of the french-creole that is spoken in the area, and folklore. We stopped by a high point where you could see Port-of-Spain, a church, a wine lady(HER WINE WAS BOMB), a house where ladies were selling goodies (fudge, tambran balls, sugar cake, nut cake, kurma, and more, just pure heaven), a cave, an area with pomerac trees and sour cherries, and the best part, the highest point! The views were breathtaking. This tour was very insightful, fun, and beautiful. I 10/10 recommend!!! Our tour guide was Carlos and he was the best!!!
See what I was talking bout????Peep Port-of-Spain in the back Highest point: Paramin lookoutgrandma ❤Would you live on a hill like this?
Paramin lookout
Isn’t this so beautiful? I SEE YOU GOD
Port-of-Spain
This is the capital of Trinidad, maybe most known for carnival! This is where everyone parades around in their costumes to loud soca music. My aunt took me and my brother around the city. We saw historical landmarks, carnival hotspots, went by Queen’s Park Savannah, souvenir shops, chinatown, and the cathedral basilica of the Immaculate Conception. It was very nice, definitely a totally different vibe from the countryside. The buildings were very old-fashioned, and there were more American franchises(subway, dairy queen, etc). The views are hilly and beautiful. My aunt would point out where she used to hang out and where my dad used to work, when they were still living in Trinidad. It was very sentimental and delightful. Took the water ferry back home!
cathedral of Immaculate Conceptionpassion fruit snow cone gave me life
That is it for Trinidad’ 22. Always a good time!!!!!! Till next time!!!!
My parents were born in the sweet Caribbean island of Trinidad and Tobago. What did that mean for me? I grew up in a TRINI household in America! I called my warm bottle of Nesquik chocolate milk that I drank every night before bed as a child, “tea-tea.” I knew how to wine before I turned five. I remember calling my friends, “allyuh,” in the playground during elementary school, and they all looked at me like I was crazy. I remember having a debate with one of my substitute teachers in first grade, on the pronunciation of vegetables, which I defended the Trini way of saying it ( VEGGUH-TEBBLES) as opposed to (VEGG-TEBLES). I used to “steups,” at everything. Those who know, they know!!! When all is said and done, though, being of Trini descent plays a big part of my identity, and I will tell you why I LOVE IT SO MUCH.
First of all, let’s talk about Trinidad! My parents took me there as a baby and throughout my childhood-adolescence for summer vacation. Trinidad is like a second-home to me, though it sometimes feels more like home than America does in many interesting ways.
What I love most about Trinidad is the warm, family-oriented vibe I get. It is such a small island that it seems as if everyone knows each other. Whenever my parents run into someone they are familiar with or someone else recognizes them (which happens a lot), there is a honking of a car involved, or a huge “YEOOOO,” that is shouted. Sometimes I just may be walking up the street to go to the store to buy an Apple J( apple flavored soda) or big foot cheese snack, and some random person will come up to me and ask “ You “so and so” daughter or niece??” It is like they know me just by my resemblance to someone in my family or because Trinis like to “maco” or (mind others’ business haha). All in all, I like how warm and friendly Trinidadians are. You are sure to be welcomed with a “hello good day,” or “goodnight.” Whereas in America (which I am guilty of), we try to avoid eye contact with each other!
One of the many reasons I love going to Trinidad is to spend time with my family. I have grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles there along with family-friends. My relatives may invite my family over and cook a nice warm meal, while we hang and chat. We have many beach limes, where we bring food to the beach, and just enjoy the day in the water. Trinidad water HIT DIFFERENT. We also take trips to mall, the markets in Princes Town and San Fernando, and long drives to different beaches/sites. We also go to Trinidad’s twin island, Tobago! It is a smaller island, filled with beautiful beaches and good vibes. I 10/10 recommend!
Castara Bay, Tobago
I especially love spending time with my grandparents and just embracing their perspective and way of life which is so different from life in the states. It makes me appreciate my culture and heritage. I like to sit outside with my grandfather as we watch cars pass by. He sings, hums, and is always asking us (his grandchildren) to do him favors. I like going into town with my mother and grandmother to the market where they buy their vegetables, herbs, spices, fruits, and groceries for the delectable meals they plan to make. I like going to my other grandma’s house which is down the street from my maternal grandmother’s house, where we just enjoy family time and the country ambiance. There is many sweet breezes and pure vibes. Her home is super special to me, because it is where my father and his siblings grew up. It means a lot to me to get to embrace what was/is home for them. I try to cherish my grandparents as much as I can.
There is something special about being in an island that your family and other previous generations lived in. I always feel very warm and passionate, when in Trinidad. I used to cry on the airplane ride back home because of how much I did not want to leave. Anyone who goes to Trinidad will tell you that the vibe in undeniable.
Secondly, our food! I mean, have you ever tried, DOUBLES???? Doubles is my hands down, favorite Trini delicacy. Doubles consist of two fried flat breads that hold curried chickpeas. If you ever go to Trinidad, it is a MUST that you try it.
I grew up eating bake and salt-fish, provision, rice and dahl, pelau, callaloo, curry chicken, curry goat, curry duck, curry potatoes, different types of roti, macaroni pie, sponge cake, sugar cake, stewed chicken, pholourie, and the list goes on. Trinidadians know how to throw it down in the kitchen. All of my aunts and uncles know how to cook so well, and though their food all have a unique taste, their food is always super favorable and made with love. My mother is the best cook I know! Her knowledge and usage of different herbs, spices, and seasonings is divine. Not a day goes by where she is not cooking a meal for my family, and the meal never disappoints! Can’t nobody touch her sponge cake!
Eating Trini food takes me right back to the island. When my house is smelling of sponge cake, black cake, curry, sweet bread etc, especially during the holidays, I am overwhelmed with warmth and joy. It is like, though in a different country, our traditions and culture is standing strong. I love it and hope to pass it down to my future children.
Lastly, our MUSIC. Trinidad and Tobago is home to so many genres of music such as Soca, Calypso, Chutney, Parang, etc. T&T is home to the steel pan and has one of the best carnivals in the world. To be a descendant of a place that is filled with so much creativity and excellence is something I take pride in.
Anyone who knows me, KNOWS, that Soca is my last name. For me, Soca is a love language. If Soca is playing at my funeral, I will be dancing in my grave. Whenever I hear Soca, I get so ecstatic, like I do not know what to do with myself. Something definitely comes over me. If I hear “EVERYBODY TAKE AH JUMP, TAKE AH JUMP, TAKE AH JUMP, UP NOW,” best believe, I will drop everything to start dancing. Soca is a very upbeat, rhythm filled genre, that you will hear during carnival or at caribbean parties. The intention of the genre is to get you to dance, have a good time, and forget your worries. I listen to Soca when I exercise and for fun, because it just makes me remember the good memories in my life, and just changes the atmosphere. It magnifies my love for my culture. Chutney, Parang, and Calypso, have a similar effect on me, as well. These genres all have their own unique spin: Chutney has Indian influence, Parang has Spanish influence, and Calypso is old-fashioned Soca music. The music from these genres make me feel closer to my heritage and to Trinidad, even when I am not physically there. It connects me to my roots in a very sentimental way.
I also would like to point out that the Trini accent is very soothing and is like verbal candy for my ears. I subconsciously speak in it when I am in my element. Search it up and you will see what I mean.
Trinidad and Tobago will always play a significant part of my identity and I am proud to be a descendant of that island!
Dominique 