I haven’t been back to Trinidad, since 2010. Last year, 2023 was a year of milestone birthdays in my family, so I agreed with Hubby it was time to ‘go home’. My extended family hadn’t physically met our children. A and V were now at age when the connections they made would be memorable. My home coming marked the start of my milestone birthday celebrations.
The Home Coming
Going home is always stressful for me. I think it’s the self-inflected pressure to see everyone one and do everything. Returning as a wife and mother was major. My agenda had to factor them in to ensure we all have a good time. Simply, my priorities were different. Although, the funny thing about Trinidad is once you touch the soil all apprehension melts away. Sure there were changes, especially after 13 years but the same people were doing the same things which gave a level of comfort. The vibe was ultra-relaxed unless entering government spaces, in which case dress code is in effect.
Where We Stayed
We stayed at an Airbnb that was equidistant from my family and friends, in Curepe, which east on the island. Hubby rented a car which made it easy for us to get around. Being based in Curepe we had easy access to Indo-Trini street food too. RESULT! I didn’t record any content from our base but I did for our 4 days getaway to Tobago. It was sheer bliss. Hubby and I celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary over there. Returning with our kids felt special. Our previous visit was Spring 2007 as a belated honeymoon. One of the places we stayed in Tobago was an Airbnb in Bloody Bay. I never knew Tobago had hilly areas and I visited a few times. Bloody Bay, Tobago is idyllic with lush flora and unique island fauna. It’s and perfect for retreat type to holiday.
What We Ate
Food in Trinidad is more influenced by global cuisine than when I lived there. There’s now an eating out culture now which didn’t exist back in my day. All year round entertainment at open air food courts and food truck spots is now a thing. You’ll find around the beaches the culinary treats are different and definitely worth a try. We ate our way around Trinidad and Tobago.
What we didn’t eat it was because we forgot, roti, pholourie, snow cone, coconut water, an array of island fruits and fizzy drinks, the list goes on. Eating in Trinidad and Tobago is a gastronomic delight. However, it’s worth noting although the islands are a twin island republic, their respective food scenes are different.
What We Did During My Home Coming
You may be amazed at this, but I found the beaches almost too warm. After years of longing for beaches I would simply disrobe and walk into, I know crazy eh. The fact is home is/was Trinidad is now an idea and a dream. Can I still call myself and expat if my roots have taken hold in England?! But I digress.
In terms of activities, we swam in the glorious Tobago beaches, met up with family and friends at their homes, went shopping in the malls in Trinidad a bit and even did a high tea at Pax Guest house, Mount St Benedict. I high recommend it for the ambience and views the lush mountain range; nice food too.
The two weeks vacay was short and packed. Every moment was special and it had a much bigger impact on my children that I’d ever realised. They often talk about ‘when we go back to Trinidad…’
Here are personal highlights from my Trinidad home coming. If you have ever visited, what was your best experience? If you are a Trini expat, how do you feel on your home coming? Comment below, I’d luv to hear from you.
