Trinidad And Tobago is lovely in the Caribbean. It is composed of two main islands, Trinidad and Tobago. Each island offers something different.
History of Trinidad and Tobago
Discovered in 1498 by Christopher Columbus, Trinidad would be used as a staging post by the Spanish on their voyages of exploration. He took the island in possession of Spain. Tobago was also discovered by Columbus again. But it was passed back and forth among various European countries so many times.
Both islands became independent from Britain in 1962. They have since had a rich and varied cultural life. The history of the islands is marked by a complicated dance of African, Indian, European and indigenous influences.
Video Credit: The Beach
Culture and Festivals
Trinidad and Tobago culture These people are actually quite colorful. Daily life Music and dance play large roles in daily life. This was where Calypso and Soca music were born. Trinidad is also the birthplace of the steelpan musical instrument created from oil drums.
The celebrated festival is the Carnival. It happens the week before Lent. Elaborate costumes are worn by people who dance to lively music. But Carnival is supposed to be a season of merriment and revelry. Visitors come from all over the world.
Another major festival is called Diwali. It is observed by Hindu religion. Houses are illuminated with oil lamps and lights. It is the triumph of light over darkness.
Credit: www.bbc.com
Natural Beauty
Trinidad-Tobago has been gifted with abundant beauty. Each island is home to gorgeous beaches, rich rainforests and unique wildlife. In Trinidad, visit the Asa Wright Nature Centre. An ornithologist’s dream. The Caroni Swamp is also a must-see. You can boat tour and see the Scarlet Ibis, which is a bright red bird.
The waters surrounding Tobago are home to clear blue, coral-filled waters. The Bucco Reef is a great place for snorkeling and diving. You visit also travel the Main Ridge Forest Reserve. It is the oldest protected rainforest in the western hemisphere.
Food and Cuisine
The food is loaded with flavor in Trinidad and Tobago. Its food also reflects the nation’s varied culture. One popular dish is roti. It’s a kind of stuffed flatbread that’s filled with curried meat or vegetables. Another favorite is doubles. The patties are two pieces of fried dough with curried chick peas inside.
Seafood is also very popular. New fish, shrimp and crab are commonly used in it. One not-to-miss dish is the bake and shark. It is a sandwich constructed using fried shark and any of various toppings. For dessert, enjoy some local sweets such as coconut drops or sugar cake. And these sweet and savory snacks will definitely do the trick.
Trinidad and Tobago Creoles
English is the official language of the country and the majority of people in Trinidad and Tobago speak the language. Today, the most spoken language in the country is Trinidadian and Tobagonian Creole, which is based on languages that represents the history of the country’s multiculturalism as well as its colonial history.
Smaller groups in Trinidad speak languages such as Spanish and Trinidadian Hindustani. Trinidadian Hindustani was introduced by Indian indentured laborers during the middle of the 19th century. In the long run both Spanish and Trinidadian Hindustani are falling into disuse and are primarily spoken by the country’s cultural, religious, and family traditions.
Dance
The limbo is a Trinidadian dance that takes place at wakes in Trinidad. The limbo has African roots. Origins and popularity Developed in the 1950s, the dance gained popularity in the 1960s and has always been strongly associated with rock and roll music.
However, there are numerous other Indian dances in Trinidad and Tobago. Popular Indian Classical dance forms in Trinidad and Tobago are Kathak, Odissi, Bharatanatyam. Indian folk dances, including launda ke naach, and Bollywood dances are common; chutney dancing is also popular.
Public holidays of Trinidad and Tobago
One of the most famous exports from the island is the annual Carnival. Middle Eastern and Oriental festivals introduced in the islands by different religions are common. Some of the Hindu festivals are Diwali, Phagwah, Nauratri, Vijayadashami, Maha Shivratri, Krishna Janmashtami, Ram Naumi, Hanuman Jayanti, Ganesh Utsav, Saraswati Jayanti, Kartik Nahan, Makar Sankranti, Pitru Paksha, Raksha Bandhan, Mesha Sankranti, Guru Purnima, Tulasi Vivaha, Vivaha Panchami, Kalbhairo Jayanti, Datta Jayanti and Gita Jayanti.
Muslim festivals such as (Ashura), Ramadan, Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha), Lailat al Miraj, Laylat al-Qadr, Shab-e-barat, Shab-e-Miraj; Jumu’ah and Milad are celebrated.
Literature of Trinidad and Tobago
Two Nobel Laureates for Literature were born here, St Lucian-born Derek Walcott and V. S. Naipaul. Other well-known writers are Michael Anthony, Neil Bissoondath, Vahni Capildeo, Merle Hodge, C. L. R. James, Earl Lovelace, Rabindranath Maharaj, Kenneth Ramchand and Samuel Selvon.
Credit: www.britannica.com
Music of Trinidad and Tobago
Tassa is a form of Indian drumming in Trinidad-Tobago. Calypso and steelpan are the national instruments of Trinidad and Tobago. A unique fusion of music, cooking and dance can be found in Trinidad, derived from the embrace of the calypso and chutney music of the island.
Media and theatre
Indian theatre is also popular in various parts of Trinidad-Tobago. Nautankis and dramas were carried by Indians to Trinidad and Tobago such as Raja Harishchandra, Raja Nal, Raja Rasalu, Sarwaneer (Sharwan Kumar), Indra Sabha, Bhakt Prahalad, Lorikayan, Gopichand and Alha-Khand but they and had virtually begun to extinct before efforts began .
Town and communities in Trinidad and Tobago
There are many communities in Trinidad-Tobago. Each is a colorful and valuable thread in the tapestry of the nation. The inhabitants are noted for their kindness and generosity.
To learn more about different communities around the world, visit www.ccnworlds.com/category/world-community.
Travel Tips
- If you’re headed to Trinidad -Tobago, here’s what to consider:
- Best time to visit is dry season (January to May).
- Keep sunscreen and insect repellent on hand at all times.
- Eat local and hit local markets.
- Honor the customs and traditions of the locals.
Now, Trinidad and Tobago is lovely place. History, culture and natural beauty exist side-by-side there. Whether you fancy a lazy day at the beach or a day exploring the rainforest – there’s something for everyone. let your hair down and prepare for a memorable experience in Trinidad and Tobago!
F A Q
Capital Of Trinidad -Tobago?
The capital is Port of Spain.
Languages Spoken In Trinidad -Tobago?
The official language is English.
What Is The Money In Trinidad -Tobago?
The currency is TTD ( Trinidad-Tobago Dollar).
What Is So Special About Trinidad -Tobago?
Maracas Beach, Queen’s Park Savannah and Asa Wright Nature Centre are popular locations.
