Another View: This Vincy's Perspective: MY TOP 5 REASONS FOR LOVING TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Trinidad and Tobago are the southernmost islands in the Caribbean archipelago. It comprises of the islands of Trinidad and Tobago and is known as the land of the humming bird, calypso, carnival and the home of the only musical instrument invented in the 20^th century, the steel pan. I’ve been to Trinidad and Tobago multiple times and here are my top 5 reasons for loving T&T:

5. The Sites- Trinidad and Tobago has a plethora of sites to see. From the beautiful beaches and breathtaking views in Tobago to the great sites to visit in Trinidad such as the Pitch Lake and Temple in the Sea, Trinidad and Tobago has a lot to offer.

Pitch Lake, Trinidad

One of my all time favourite trips to make in Trinidad is to the religious community at Mt. St. Benedict in Tunapuna. The Mount is the site of a Benedictine monastery which makes its own wine and honey. The views are breath taking and on the Mount one feels the peace and tranquillity away from everyday hustle and bustle of life. So the next time you’re in Trinidad, take this side trip and enjoy a little time for yourself.

View from Mt. St. Benedict, Trinidad

4. The Shopping – Trinidad and Tobago has some of the best shopping in the Caribbean. With the infamous Trincity Mall now renovated and expanded, there are even more stores offering a wide variety of brands suited to every tastes. There are several malls available for shopping ranging from the ultra chic West Mall to the friendly Long Circular Mall. There are also several great stores located in Port of Spain. From the infamous Jimmy Abouds for cloth to Francis Fashions for their great selection of men’s clothing and shoes, there is something for everyone. The exchange rate is also favourable so take along a few extra dollars to pick up something whether for your family or yourself!

Trincity Mall (Picture taken from TriniGourmet.com)

3. The Parties – Trinidad and Tobago is famous for its parties and nightlife. Tobago is known for its laid back culture. However the night life is quite enjoyable. A visit to the Bucco Reef on a Sunday night is great. I remember the sounds of steel pan belting out the sweet tunes of old soca and calypso sounds while enjoying some fish and a cold Carib. Trinidad is famous for its nightlife. There are so many clubs to choose from that it’s hard to ever not have somewhere to go. From the infamous Zen to the Thursday night party at 51 degrees to some of the lesser known country clubs in Arima, Tunapuna and Chaguanas such as Club Maharaj and Livin’ Room.

And then there is the ultimate party in Trinidad – Carnival. As soon as Christmas ends, Carnival literally starts. There is a fete every weekend and each caters to a different tastes. It all culminates the weekend before Ash Wednesday with some of the biggest parties including the International Soca Monarch, J’Ouvert and the world Renowned Carnival Tuesday Street Parade filled with colour and displaying the creativity of the mas men. No wonder it’s said that nobody can party like a Trini.

2. The People – It’s said that all Caribbean people are friendly and Trinbagonians are no exception to the rule. Trinis are known for their hospitality and welcoming of people whether you’re from near or far. From the taxi drivers to the store clerks to the waiters/waitresses to the vendor on the street, one is made to feel right at home. They will even guess the accent and where it’s from and the stories will flow from their own travels to your country to the cousin from the tanty (aunt) on their mother side is married to some from your country. It’s hard not to feel at home in T&T. With this welcome and hospitality, no wonder persons return time and time again to this Paradise.

1. And my no.1 reason for loving Trinidad and Tobago is the FOOD. Trinidad and Tobago is any diner’s paradise. From the beautiful and fresh sea food in Tobago to the culinary delights found on any street corner in Trinidad, one has to love the food there. There is a plethora of dishes to sample in Trinidad and the different influences are seen in the dishes. The influences of the Amerindian, East Indian, African, Spanish, Chinese, Lebanese and Creole can be seen in the everyday dishes served up. From the wonderful doubles in the morning to a great roti (whether sada or buss up shot) to a nice bowl of peleau, there is always some food to enjoy. On my last trip I enjoyed 2 doubles for breakfast, a nice bowl of stew lamb with macaroni pie and cassava, a nice bag of pineapple chow and two aloo pies for dinner. The drinks are endless and the best drinks to have in T&T, a cold Carib or Stag or a nice glass of rum: whether it be White Oak or Vat 19. And who can forget a nice Trini Christmas present coming to meet me: a box of pastelles. With all this food, the question is why aren’t Trinbagonians fat? Well they work it off with all that partying especially the wining in the waist.