We had the time of our lives experiencing T&T Carnival for the first time, and although the highlight of our trip was playing mas, we truly loved spending our first few days seeing and understanding Trinidad. If you’re planning a trip to Trinidad & Tobago for fun, business, or your next carnival adventure – I truly recommend spending at least one day exploring this beautiful island!
Here are a few of our favorite moments:
Drive Through The Rainforest, Try Mango Chow:
Trinidad’s North Coast is lush with rainforest. It is truly a gorgeous drive, and the best way to reach two of Trinidad’s famous beaches: Maracas Bay and Las Cuevas. Stop at the food stalls along the way and try the local mango chow.
*note: if you get carsick, this is not for you!*
Maracas Bay
We loved spending the afternoon at Maracas Bay, a beach well known for it’s Bake & Shark (although, I must admit we didn’t try it!) For the most part it was busy, and some sections of the beach even had music playing. All around it was a lovely atmosphere, and we enjoyed the beautiful sunshine and scenery.
Roti & Doubles
Learning how to order these two items was a lesson in and of itself! After struggling through our first visit to Hott Shoppe, *cue a lot of blank stares and exasperated sighs* (we’re so sorry!), we determined that curry mango and pumpkin in our boneless chicken and channa roti (slight pepper inside!) is without a doubt THE best roti we have ever had, and all else is completely and hopelessly ruined. I guess we’ll have to patiently wait until 2020 to have another one! Don’t forget about the doubles – they’re quick, messy, spicy, and delicious!
Las Cuevas Beach:
We absolutely adored Las Cuevas Beach! As an island girl – I love beaches overflowing with palm trees, dotted with little boats, and tucked into a quiet bay. It was a perfect lazy afternoon spent after a very busy two carnival days.
Yerettê:
If Trinidad is the “Land of the Hummingbird”, Yerettê is certainly the “Home of the Hummingbirds”. Attracted by the nectar, fourteen different species of Hummingbirds flutter freely together at Yerettê, their wings bringing life to the garden. We had a beautiful tour, which included afternoon tea and an in-depth discussion with Theo Ferguson – a passionate and enthusiastic hummingbird educator. A very calming experience amidst carnival week.
http://www.yerettett.com
Fort George:
Built in the 1800’s, it’s a must see for the best views over Port of Spain!
Still On Our Must Do List:
– Take a boat “Down De Islands”
– Waterfall Hikes
– Visit Tobago
– Explore the East Coast of Trinidad
xx CC
