Parang

At Christmas time the Trinis become a little Spanish. The island was a Spanish colony for a long time, but other than Spanish place and surnames the Latin influence is little felt nowadays. At the end of the year, however, it surfaces in the traditional Christmas songs sung in Spanish.

Lopinot

Trinidad has a diverse cultural history that includes Spanish, French, Indian, African and British influences. As Christmas time approaches the Spanish influence is felt, particularly in the village of Lopinot. Originally settled by a French count, Lopinot is now home to descendants of Venezuelan cocoa farmers.

Every year there is a cultural festival in the village, when people can enjoy the parang music as well as delicacies such as pastelle.

Maracas

A stay in Trinidad is not complete without a visit to Maracas Bay. Less than 20 miles from the hustle and bustle of Port of Spain, Maracas is tropical serenity and an ideal place to connect to that inner laziness. Maracas is also home to one of T&T's delicacies: Bake 'n Shark. A succulent filet of shark, deep fried in batter and served on a hamburger bun with a host of extras such as lettuce, hot peppers and a range of sauces. One cannot come to Trinidad and not have it!!

Back in Trinidad

After five years (far too long!!) I am back in Trinidad. Not for a holiday, alas, but to be present at the Commonwealth Business Forum that is held in Port of Spain as part of the annual Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2009.

To take advantage of our visit, we have planned several meetings with old friends and new business contacts. Nevertheless, after a long day we can relax and enjoy the tropical sunset and a delicious cocktail.

My new nephew

Our family was delighted today by the arrival of the newest addition: a brother for Luca and cousin for Boaz and Noemi named Matthies Christiaan Arend.