San Fernando Hills and Thrills

This Journey through Trinidad and Tobago has really done a lot, both for me as a citizen of this beautiful country but also for you; the readers. I have definitely learned that the power of social media is truly underrated and taken for granted in most instances. Before this project I did not understand the power of me posting a video of Maracas beach on Youtube and how it would affect the opinions of hundreds if not thousands of persons viewing it.

Not only does Social media have an effect on those persons using it but it also has an effect on those in it. I was happily pleased to know that by doing this Travelogue and visiting all these places and using all these different sites to promote my journey, social media was able to bring my direct "competition" and I together for the ultimate "must see spot in Trinidad".  

Today we finally brought our Travel blogs to a close by visitng San Fernando hills as a theme. We both utilised the same social media to get us to the location (Google maps and Wikipedia) and also similar social media sites to promote our journey afterwards.

I would have to say this was the perfect end to a wonderful fifteen weeks. We ended it on a peaceful note with the serene surroundings of San Fernando hill, the beautiful views, the yummy culinary and perfect company. Check us out closing off our respective journey's at San Fernando Hill.

Check out our Journey at:

http://teneilnurse91.blogspot.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TriniTravelGuide

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0renjhE-vc&feature=youtu.be

http://www.travelblog.org/Central-America-Caribbean/Trinidad-and-Tobago/blog-759485.html

Use these to start planning your own Journey

https://maps.google.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Fernando_Hill

Much more than Kershorn (Toco)

Today I found myself taking that two hour drive to Galera Point just north east of 

Toco. First of all I must say the scenery was incredible. There were so many coconut vendors, cucumber stalls and different shops along the way. One particular site that really made me stop in my tracks was this house that had these interesting and beautiful pieces of wooden art hanging in front it.  I stopped and enquired as to what they were and who was making it and was greeted by a colourful individual named Marcus Frection. His art as well as his character is unique as each piece is significant.

In addition to the gorgeous scenic drive up to Toco we also saw a lot of patriotism for Kershorn Walcott, this countries latest Gold Medal Olympic Winner. There were banners and graffiti on many walls congratulating him and showing their support and appreciation for him.

We finally got to Galera Lighthouse and boy was it a sight to see. The light house though over one hundred and fifteen years old was as gorgeous as the first day it was built (I can only imagine as I am not 115 years old lol). 

We then followed the paved trail from the lighthouse to Galera Point lookout. The view was breathtaking and nerve racking all at the same time. There were signs surrounding the cliffs warning of "Approach at own risk" "Management does not accept liability for any loss or damage" along with a couple others. I took these warnings VERY seriously. I did manage to get a couple pictures and to take in the Panoramic view of the Caribbean sea and the Atlantic Ocean. 100% worth the trip.

Continue to follow my journey on

http://www.facebook.com/TriniTravelGuide
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riQiLWwP36E
http://www.travelblog.org/Central-America-Caribbean/Trinidad-and-Tobago/Trinidad/blog-759002.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toco

The Beauty of Religion

For those of you who have never been to Mt Saint Benedict or The Mount as Trinis refer to it, then you have basically lost two years on your life already. Surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains and aesthetically sound architecture Mt Saint Benedict and its surrounding landscapes is a must see on your trip around this beautiful island we call Trinidad. Though people know it as a highly religious place that houses many Roman Catholic buildings, I would like to take it from a visual rather than a historical point of view.

I am still in awe of the beauty that surrounds this gorgeous Church on the hill. Though I know some of us may share different religious beliefs, one belief I know to be true, the view from on top those hills will leave you breathless. There is something about being so high up that makes me feel closer to God, it's almost like if when you are up there you are seeing things from God's point of view. You don't see individual people, you don't see suffering, you don't see problems, all you see is beauty and endless possibilities. The sky is truly the limit when you are up there. 

You can't help but feel overwhelmed with feelings of peace and serenity. 

They say that a picture speaks a thousand words so I will let the photos tell you the story of my journey.

To see more photos check out my Facebook page.....

http://www.facebook.com/TriniTravelGuide

Has social media changed the travel experience for the better or worst

I just want to take a little time out from my usual style of blogging to pose a serious question that has arisen out of my current travel project.  Has social media changed the travel experience for the better or worst?

The journey thus far has lead me not only to some interesting places in Trinidad but my research has also lead me to discover a lot of different information circulating on the web about travel and social media. I came across this one article in particular that has peaked my interest.

The article states that social media and technology have not only enhanced the way we travel but it has also changed it completely. Those persons who once depended on friends advice or pictures from their vacation photo album to determine if they wanted to visit a destination have moved away from word of mouth information and rely solely on the information they receive from their different social media outlets. You now have applications that tell you when is the best time to travel, what the weather is like, many different sites to compare rates and get the best and cheapest prices, among other things.

Social media in this situation is not only taking away the "experience" that goes along with planning a trip but it takes away the "social" portion of the experience. We no longer have to go to a travel agency to book a ticket, all we need is a cell phone with internet and a travel app on our smartphone and we are basically set. According to the article "More than 80% of international vacationers use their smartphones while abroad." 

Is this what a vacation constitutes of now? Using the app Foursquare to tell the world where you are or posting a photograph of everything you do on Facebook, or maybe tweeting every single thing you eat...... 

Just to drive the point home a bit, have we become so much attached to our smartphones and devices that we have integrated it into our very way of life?

Geez and crackers..... Was it really necessary for Bmobile to install 4G coverage on Maracas Beach, a place meant for relaxation? Is this what we have come to? Are we really so wrapped up in social media that we no longer have time to be social?????

What do you think?

Feel free to read the article below

http://mashable.com/2012/03/24/how-tech-is-changing-travel-infographic/

In memory of

Everyday as a little girl my parents would take the same route to drop me to school; over the Lady Young road, around the Savannah and down Victoria Avenue. Just before we would hit Frederick street I would see a great big park on my left with towering trees and freshly cut green grass and wonder to myself "Why couldn't we stop there and play?"

After almost 18 years of wondering I have finally got my answer; the grounds of the Memorial park were to be paid tribute to and not trampled on.

Situated in what could be seen as the recreational centre of Port of Spain, the Memorial park is truly a sight to see.  With the great big trees that I remember from my childhood and green grass that looks like something out of a painting, the Memorial Park is as beautiful as it is peaceful. A great contrast to the hustle and bustle that takes place on the roadways surrounding the park; it is truly a sanctuary in our chaotic everyday lives. A historical monument with cultural and spiritual significance.

The Cenotaph (empty tomb) serves as a constant reminder to everyone around that our right to freedom though free, needs to be defended at times. Adorned with statues of what may be Guardian angels scraping the sky and well crafted soldiers up in arms, this location is truly an artistic wonder and a must see destination.

Follow my journey at:

http://www.travelblog.org/Bloggers/Trini-Travel-Girl/

http://www.facebook.com/TriniTravelGuide?fref=ts

http://www.youtube.com/user/VergeMarketingAgency?feature=mhee

The "other" Heart of Port of Spain

This week's journey took me to a place that all of us know but may not truly appreciate for all that it is. It has played a very significant role in the Trinidad we know today. 

Are you wondering where can this place be????? I'm talking about the "other" heart of Port of Spain; The Queen's Park Savannah. The world's largest and greenest traffic roundabout located just north of the capital city of Port of Spain.

These 296 acres of greenery holds a lot of historical and cultural significance to this place we call home. The Savannah was originally part of a Sugar cane plantation called Paradise Estate up until the early 1800's. It was bought over in 1817 by then Governor Sir Ralph Woodford and deemed a place of recreation, exercise and amusement for all to enjoy. It is today still known for its recreational and cultural purposes amongst other things.

This 200 year old park has seen the likes of animal grazing, sporting events, Carnival celebrations, a horse racing track, an exercise space and even survived the 1934 landing of Graf Zeppelin; a German airship. 

(Sang about by Calypsonian Atilla the Hun http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-xcUzC0LXM)

Not only is this space one of our national treasures but its surrounding landscaping and architecture also have a great story to tell. With surrounding sites such as (NAPA) the National Academy for the Performing Arts, Knowsley Building, the Memorial Park, The Botanical Gardens and most notably a group of architecturally flamboyant style of mansions termed  the Magnificent Seven. 

These are; Queen's Royal College, the residences of the Anglican bishop and the Roman Catholic archbishop, Whitehall, the office of the Prime Minister, Mille Fleurs, Roomor, and Stollmeyer's Castle.

The QPS offers beautiful scenery, architecture, recreation, sports, Carnival, history, culture and so much more. What else can you ask of a perfect vacation destination?????

Follow my Journey at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2cT3-C8GPQ

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.356359321120923.83138.349690828454439&type=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen's_Park_Savannah

http://caribbeanhistoryarchives.blogspot.com/2011/08/queens-park-savannah.html

A Panoramic View (Lady Young Rd Lookout)

I found myself once again driving through the curves and 

bends of the Northern Range to find myself at destination five; The Lady Young Road Lookout nestled in the quiet community of Morvant. 

To get to the Lady young road look out I had to take the Lady Young road from Morvant Junction for about five minutes worth of driving.

This particular spot is famous for its panoramic view of the capital city of Port-of-Spain as we can see on the right.

It is not often that you can find a place in this busy country of Trinidad where you can go and be at peace with yourself and with your thoughts. 

Though the Lady Young Road lookout does not necessarily have any great historical or cultural significance in Trinidad, it definitely does the job of adding to this nation's beauty and splendour.

Surrounded by what appears to be a never ending expanse of greenery and blue skies in the daytime this is the perfect place to visit if you just needed to get away or even wanted to get a little bit closer to the heavens and the stars at night.   

                          

My Drive up to the Lady Young Road Lookout through Morvant

Follow my Journey at:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.354687157954806.82669.349690828454439&type=3
http://www.youtube.com/user/VergeMarketingAgency?feature=mhee
https://foursquare.com/v/lady-young-road/4cf5171899c6236a7f324967
http://www.mapquest.com/maps?cat=lady%20young%20road&city=Port-of-Spain&country=TT#bffb60dca138e0010592b519

The Beauty in my Backyard

I have lived D'abadie for the past twenty years and never once have I looked at the Arima Borough as a place of beauty and significance in Trinidad and Tobago. Arima is literally a five minute drive away from my home in D'Abadie so hence the term "my backyard".

I have always attended the Borough day celebrations and Carnival in Arima but never have I given it a second thought as a place of great historical significance.

Doing research for this project has really opened up my eyes to some of the beautiful and historical places that Trinidad and Tobago has to offer.

I took my five minute drive in to Arima this afternoon with the intention of making the Arima Dial my third must see destination in Trinidad but instead my focus was drawn to a grand gold statue on my right hand side as soon as I entered Arima. Bear in mind that I have never noticed this statue before but I have driven that route hundreds of times before.

Hyarima Statue

After I made the full circle of the Arima Veldrome, I was greeted by a statue of an Amerindian Chief named Hyarima who is the reason for Arima being named what it is today. 

Though I did manage to visit the Arima Dial and the bust dedicated to Arima's son the late great calypsonian Lord Kitchener I chose to make the focus of my project Chief Hyarima.

My journey today though very informative it also taught me a life lesson "never ignore the beauty in your own backyard".

Follow my journey at:

http://www.facebook.com/TriniTravelGuide

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-zioMNZCe0&feature=youtu.be

http://www.i955fm.com/ttportal/tt-directory/item/136/1643.html

A fair mix of Business & Pleasure

Whoever said that you should not mix business with pleasure never visited Maracas Bay on an assignment like mine.  Today was like a long awaited mini vacation even though I went to "work".

Maracas Bay is one of the unique beaches located on the Northern coast of Trinidad and Tobago.

Though the weather was not that of the typical "beach day" it was good enough for me to enjoy the time with my family and friends.

The Sun Sand and Sea came up short on the Sun but it was still a day to remember. The scenery heading through the northern hills to Maracas Bay was breathtaking. We were surrounded by sights, sounds and smells that you could not find in the bustling towns of Trinidad. 

Adorning the hillsides is the Balisier, this country's national flower. With the  poignant smell of salt water in the air, this gives the passengers on the roadways a gentle reminder that they are almost to a place of relaxation.

The weather held up just enough for me to be able to document some of the beautiful scenery that Maracas Bay and its environs had to offer.

Contributing to one of Trinidad's cultural experiences, the perfect mix of a rural and urban setting this beach helps to show the true personality and attitude of our twin nation. Just a ninety minute drive outside of our nation's capital its a must see location.

Here are my top three reasons why Maracas should definitely be on your "must visit" list-:

The sights of the coconut trees swaying in the cool breeze
The sound of sweet Trini soca music coming from Uncle Sam's bar
The smell emanating from the many Bake and Shark tents located in the parking lot across from the beach.

Get details on my journey and locations at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQTDWO95NdA
http://www.facebook.com/TriniTravelGuide 
https://maps.google.tt/maps?hl=en&authuser=0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&NR=1&v=G5XRbJmIbuM

Memorial erected in Sesdass Sadhu's honour in 1994 when Trinidad and Tobago commemorated 150n years on indentured labourers in the country

The Trouble in Trying

So today I set out on the first day of my fifteen week journey to visit some of the sites and landmarks in Trinidad and Tobago that has played a significant role in shaping our country's culture and way of life.

Day one of my journey was actually supposed to take me to the San Fernando hills. First off I figured that just by knowing the general direction I should go in to get to San Fernando that this meant I would be able to find San Fernando hills on my own. Boy was I wrong!! 

In addition to not knowing how to get into San Fernando to find these hills the traffic to get in and out of San Fernando was dreadful. With absolutely no patience and no sense of direction I turned around and began to head home.

On my way back down the highway a sign caught my eye "Temple in the Sea next left". I figured why not? It always peaked my interest as to how far out in the sea this Temple was built and what was stopping the mighty ocean from demolishing it.

Needless to say it was pretty simple to find as it was at the end of a very long road.

So after the door of opportunity closed on me due to the lack of proper direction another window opened up which resulted in the Sewdass Sadhu Temple in the Sea being my first must see destination in my journey across TnT.

Check me out at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XN6qX9EaA8o
http://www.facebook.com/amanda.verge.5

Waterloo Temple in the Sea Trinidad

Welcome!!!!!! Your one stop guide to exploring TNT's True Beauty

Trinidad and Tobago can be called the land of Sand and Sea. Its made up by two islands with two totally different takes on what life should be. Trinidad is more fast paced and energetic and full of people hustling and bustling. Tobago on the other hand is a more laid back type of people, the perfect destination to just kick back, relax and take in the beauty it has to offer. When combined its the perfect tourist destination.

The purpose of this blog is to give a little insight to those persons living both inside and outside of Trinidad and Tobago on our nations history and rich culture. 

Over the course of the next fifteen weeks my goal is to visit 10-15 of the popular and not so popular sites, locations and landmarks that help to make Trinidad and Tobago the rich and multi cultured nation that it is. 

I will be documenting my progress and findings using three social mediums and referring you guys to couple of travel and historical links along the way.

You can look out for some interesting fun facts and information on what makes TnT the nation we have come to know and love. The many historical and religious influences that have helped to shape our culture and our lives.

I hope that you take this journey with me!!!!!