I remember when I was a teenager, a classmate of mine made a joke about my family. “It’s like you have four mothers,” my friend said. I’m sure it was in response to me complaining about not being able to do something or go somewhere. Either way, my friend’s statement stuck with me and back in those days, it did feel that way.

Of course there’s my mom, Peggy. But it truly does take a village to raise a child, so allow me to introduce you to the rest of my village.

From left to right – my big sister Petal, who was the person responsible for encouraging me to be a reader and a writer. So many of my childhood memories are of just me and her, going to the bookstore or library or just driving around St. James and Port of Spain with her. Petal comments frequently on the blog as Pets, so some of you have encountered her before, maybe without knowing! My big sister helped to raise me into the person I am today. AND she’s one of the best real estate agents in Trinidad so if you need a real estate agent, contact her!

My mom’s in the green cardigan and navy dress. Then in front of me is my niece Dominique – Little Afrobella has grown up!

Aunty Gemma is to my right – longtime readers of the site will remember her from this post about her dealing with breast cancer. She’s doing great! Aunty Gemma is still teaching piano lessons and sharing a love of music with her students every day (including my nieces)!

Aunty Opal is in the coral top with the green bag and she’s really the de facto caretaker of the kids in the family. My mom always was a busy, working mom with a demanding career. Aunty Opal is the one who I came home from school to watch Sesame Street with, who made delicious Chelsea Buns on our special occasions, and who was always there with a snack or a hug when I needed one before my mom came home from work. 

And next to her is my other niece, Isabella! She’s such a little cutie

These women helped to raise me and steer me on the right path in life. They are always there for me when I need them, and all I hope to ever do is to make them proud. I think I’m doing alright so far!

And this is my whole family!

From left to right:

Back row – my big brother Dominic, my dad, my husband Steve, my big brother Patrick, and Ken the very sweet and accomodating owner of the Chinese Dragon restaurant in Debe, Trinidad.

Second row – my sister Petal, my mom, me, Aunty Gemma and Aunty Opal.

Front row – Dominique and Isabella

And today they’re all gathering together to celebrate Mother’s Day. I’m about to call home and let them know just how much I love them, and that I wish I could be there to celebrate with them.

Whether you’re a mother with your own kids, or you’ve adopted a family, or if you’re a loving sister or aunt or grandma who really plays a motherly role in the lives of little ones, I wish you a very happy Mother’s Day. Thank you for all you have done to shape a child’s life! It ALL counts. Thank you for being part of someone’s village. You’re more appreciated than you may know.

Happy Mother’s Day, bellas!!!

My visit back to Trinidad was everything and then some. I got to see old friends and spend time with family and revisit my past. I also got to experience new places and things, and appreciate my country and culture in a whole new way. It was a whirlwind visit and just let me know that I need to go home more often, and for longer periods of time.

While I was at home, I made sure to visit Trinidad’s beauty meccas. I went back in time to my earliest beauty experiences, and then visited some boutiques and tried out some products that represent the future of beauty in Trinidad. Allow me to share my experiences!

– Fabi Cosmetique

The lovely gentleman you see in the above photograph is Mr. Frank Blake, better known to me as Uncle Frank (we call family AND friends Uncle and Aunty as a sign of respect where I come from)! When I was seven or eight, I won a question and answer contest at a fashion event. Uncle Frank gifted me with my first fancy beauty item, a bottle of Fendi body wash. That Christmas, I helped out at Uncle Frank’s store — then located in what was known as Westmall, which is now The Falls at Westmall. Fabi Salon was the origin of my beauty story, and helping out there at such a young age shaped who I am today. It was SUCH a pleasure to take a drive down hustling bustling Ariapita Avenue, and find Fabi in a brand new location! And Uncle Frank looking well as ever!

Fabi Salon is now Fabi Cosmetique and it’s located at 62 Ariapita Avenue, Port of Spain which is an utterly brilliant location, especially around Carnival! Besides popular mainstream fragrances and cosmetics, they also offer bottles of liquor for sale, and there’s a large refrigerator with a variety of beers and beverages. It’s a store both men and women wouldn’t mind shopping in!

– Body Beautiful on d’Avenue

One or two stores down from Fabi, and right across the street from excellent, popular Trinidadian restaurant Veni Mange, is Trinidad’s new natural hair mecca. I was SO impressed by Body Beautiful on D’Avenue — click to check out their Facebook page! Fully stocked with all the popular natural hair lines including Kinky Curly, Curls, Shea Moisture and Naturalista Cosmetics, and natural body products like Tree Hut and Afrikan Republic! I stopped by and met Allison Goddard, one of the owners.

She is lovely and so helpful!! And while I was there she hooked me up with some Sunny Isle Jamaican Pimento castor oil and my scalp is LOVING it. Thank you!!

– Hair It Is

I have always loved Woodbrook and the neighborhood has changed so much! Now old timey Trinidadian residences share the street with cool local boutiques, mas camps, and restaurants. At 21 DeVerteuil Street, an old school friend of mine — the stunning and super sweet Danielle Jones — has opened a hair emporium! Hair It Is sells products for locks, weaves & everything in between. If you’re looking for high quality clip in hair, or products like Moroccan Oil and Mixed Chicks, this is where you go! Click here to follow them on Facebook!

– Cher-Mere

If you know anything about Caribbean made hair products then I am sure you are familiar with Cher-Mere, the original natural hair spa and product line of the islands! Most of Cher-Mere’s products are made with extracts of aloe vera, tea tree, and rachette — NOT “ratchet” like how it’s used in American slang today. Rachette is also known as Opuntia Vulgaris, a species of cactus related to the prickly pear, that is popular in West Indian hair care (especially amongst rastas. This Black Hair Media thread breaks it down). Cher-Mere’s creator biochemist Cheryl Bowles is a family friend — I am so in love with her Aunty Joyce, she’s like a godmother to me! And I love stopping by their store in Long Circular Mall to pick up products — another beloved relative, Elsie, runs things there and is quite the expert on what products you should try. Love what they do!

– Immortelle Beauty

Immortelle Beauty is a new product line out of Trinidad, dedicated to giving Caribbean feet the pampering and love they deserve! Formulated by cosmetic chemist Kathryn Nurse, she launched the beauty line in 2008, and last year my sister and mom attended a lovely product launch she had in Trinidad. Immortelle’s foot spa products are made with Himalayan sea salt, and essential oils of Jamaican allspice, African bitter orange, and French lavender, and they smell decadent and delightful. Loving it so far!

– Sacha Cosmetics

Sacha Cosmetics is THE O.G of Caribbean cosmetics. Founded 30 years ago in Trinidad, it is makeup dedicated to the range of skintones that Caribbean skin comes in. I grew up using Sacha — my very first lipstick was Copper Rosa, and when I went home my wonderful Aunty Gemma gave me a special gift — a brand new tube of Copper Rosa! It’s just as beautiful as I remembered. Travelers to Trinidad, keep your eyes peeled for a big, beautiful Sacha Cosmetics booth just past the security checkpoint, where the departure gates are at Piarco!

Those were my greatest finds and experiences at home, regarding beauty products and places to buy them. I didn’t get out of the Port of Spain area so I hope next time to share some finds from the South and the East of Trinidad!

Trini bellas, where did I miss and where should I visit next time?

While I’m at home visiting my family, I’d love to share a few photos from my visit to Trinidad! Epic posts to come when I am back in the USA. For now, enjoy!

Gran Couva, Trinidad

Today my family visited a 100+ year old cocoa plantation in Gran Couva, Trinidad. It was so amazing and so cool to see exactly how the world’s best chocolate is made! Epic post and lots of photos to come!

I’m standing on cocoa beans!

The title of this post is inspired by a classic calypso by The Mighty Sniper.

Bellas, fellas — consider this your virtual away message. Right now as you read this, this is where I am.

Photo via Wikipedia.

I’m in Trinidad — the most southerly island of the Caribbean, land of steelpan, calypso, limbo (and Carnival)! I’m not here for the two-day festival of debauchery, alas — I’ll be back in Chicago by then. I’m here to relax, unwind, get some time away from a computer screen for a change, and most importantly, spend time with my family. My two little nieces here are now ages 3 and 6 and we’ve got many games to play, coloring books to color in, and puzzles to put together! They drew me ADORABLE welcome home signs that I got when I came home to my old teenage bedroom.

Of course Mama and Papa Bella have a full schedule of plans for my husband and I. I haven’t been back home to visit my family since 2009, and my husband hasn’t been with me in like 5 years. We’re even going back to Coco Reef, where we had our honeymoon a decade ago. This is SO long overdue!

Throughout the week I plan to post photos of my visit so you too can see Trinidad through my eyes and bask in the beauty of my homeland. Posts will probably be a bit slow this week, but I hope you enjoy my photos!

And if you’re an old friend or blogging buddy who lives in Trinidad, if you see a person with humongous hair who looks like me out and about say HELLO! It’s probably me! I may not be able to meet up in person just because of the hectic timing, but on the next visit I want to attend a tweet up and get to know you all better!

Talk soon!!!

Even though I’m far away, Trinidad will always be my home. And on days like today I miss the simple pleasures.

Like spending time with my family, going to visit my friends, eating good food like roti and doubles, shark and bake, pholourie, and pelau. I miss drinking Shandy and having the best rum available at the ready. I miss hearing the lapping waters of the ocean while looking back at verdant mountain ranges.

To my friends, family, and fans at home in Trinidad and Tobago, and my Trinis scattered around the world — Happy Independence Day!

Portrait of Trinidad – Mighty Sniper

“Trinidad is my land
And of it I am proud and glad
But I can’t understand
Why some people does talk it bad.
All of them who runnin’ dey mouth
Don’t know whey they talkin’ bout
They will paint here black everyday,
But the right things they would never say…”

I had to open this post with a quote from the Mighty Sniper’s timeless song Portrait of Trinidad. Even though it was a hit in 1965, the words still ring true today. Trinidad is a beautiful island with a terrible reputation right now. I wouldn’t be a responsible blogger if I didn’t get that out of the way. But Trinidad is my homeland. Of it I am proud and glad. Despite everything, it remains an island with unparallelled music, cuisine, and cultural experiences to be enjoyed.

I was born and raised in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, and I lived in Trinidad until 1998. In my college days I made it back home pretty often, but ever since I joined the ranks of the employed (and then the unemployed), it became more difficult to get back home. Not having spring, summer, or winter break will do that to you.

Before this past Mother’s Day, the last time I’d been home was 2006, Before Afrobella. Just last Christmas I broke Mama Bella’s heart by not being able to make it home for Christmas. Then came Carnival and I had to dash her hopes yet again. Then my husband and I quit the jobs that were holding us back from following our dreams. Needless to say, after that a trip to Trinidad was not on the horizon. So when my dad suggested a surprise trip home for Mother’s Day, it was impossible to resist. After all, I was about to move from sunny Miami to the Windy City – I needed to soak up the tropical rays and family love while I could!

It turned out to be impossible to contain the excitement in my close-knit, chatty family. Mama Bella’s Mother’s Day surprise wasn’t exactly a surprise… but I know I made her very happy nonetheless. I spent some much-needed family time and got back to basics. It was lovely.

Going home feels like returning to an old self. In so many ways — even my skin and hair rebelled against the 90 degree temperatures, leaving me looking like a crazy-haired spotty teenager. No matter. I was there for fun, sun, family, and good food. While I was visiting, it hit me — how on EARTH had I never written an Afrobella guide to Trinidad before? Saying “my bad” feels like an understatement. Without further ado, here are my top five favorite places in Trinidad and Tobago. Excluding my house because that’s too obvious. =)

1. Maracas Beach. I’m convinced Trinis don’t always realize how good they have it. 80 degree temperatures year round. Lush green mountains and sparkling blue waters. Nonstop fun and great food to be discovered, if you know where to look. Maracas Beach is a great place to start for all of the above, and it’s a must for any first time visitor to T&T.

The roads are steep, winding and can be unpredictable (beware of landslides and crazy drivers!). But the vista at the lookout point will absolutely take your breath away. Maracas is a beautiful beach, but people don’t just go there to wiggle their toes in the sand. Oh no. Maracas is the famous home of bake and shark.

Click ahead to 2:35 to begin the Maracas segment. And please note that the worldly Travel Channel Bizarre Foods host Andrew Zimmern saw fit to call it “the best fish sandwich I’ve ever eaten…one of my all time top ten favorite foods, not just of this trip, not just of this year. Ever.” So you don’t just have to take it from me, take it from a man with a truly adventurous palate. The New York Times also called it “just about the best fish sandwich in the world.” I agree completely. This humble fried fish sandwich is a fine reason to beeline for the beach. Most people head straight for Richard’s, undoubtedly the most popular venue. But there’s always an insane line at Richard’s. Besides his, there are a dozen or so stands, and my dad introduced me to his favorite – Uncle Sam’s. His bake & shark is to die for, trust! Laden it with as many condiments as you can stand — pickled cucumbers, tamarind sauce, mango chutney – the list is endless. One bite and you’ll be hooked for life!

2. The Savannah. For architecture, flora, and yes – good food (this is a theme you’ll notice throughout), you can’t miss a trip around the Savannah. Actually you probably won’t be able to miss a trip around the Savannah in general — at 260 acres, it’s touted as “the world’s largest roundabout.” The Savannah is home to the Magnificent Seven — turn of the century mansions that reflect the skill, craftsmanship and creativity of Trinidad’s architects and developers. It’s also home to the Emperor Valley Zoo, which when I last visited was in such a glum state I wished with my whole heart I could buy it, restore it to glory, and bring some joy and dignity to the animals that must be so unhappy to live there. It’s a heartbreaking experience for an animal lover, and I sincerely hope the government invests money into Trinidad’s languishing cultural landmarks, including the zoo, the Botanic Gardens, and the museum. It’s been reported that a renovation has been planned and I sincerely, sincerely hope it comes to fruition. OK, off soapbox. Tour guide hat back on.

The Savannah is another spot for unique cuisine and cultural experiences. At Carnival it is the blazing epicenter of the costume and steelpan competitions. It’s home to Apsara, the Indian restaurant rated #1 in the country according to Trip Advisor. And it’s the best place to come for coconut water straight from the nut, and for Indian delicacies like pholourie and saheena.

This photo captures two things I sincerely miss about home — All Saints Church, the church I grew up attending. I can honestly say the priest I had there as a child, was the coolest, most interesting, wonderful priest I could ever have hoped for. Father Winston Joseph can now be found in West Palm Beach at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and if you’re in the area and looking for a house of worship, I heartily encourage you to check him out! I miss good ol’ All Saints, and coconut water. I could go for a fresh, cold coconut water right this minute! That’s gonna be REALLY hard to find in Chicago!

3. St. James. Tony Bennett might have left his heart in San Francisco, but mine may be wandering somewhere around St. James, drinking rum at Smokey & Bunty or Arthur’s Place — RIP, Mr. Goddard — or somewhere on Western Main Road buying a roti. Trinis affectionately call it the city that never sleeps, but anyone who’s been to the Big Apple (or any other major city in the world) will find that title amusing. Still, it’s undeniable that something crazy and probably drunken is poppin’ off in St. James at any hour of the night or early morning. My trip home isn’t complete without a drive through, just for the people watching.

4. Woodbrook. If you’re looking for fine dining of any kind, this neighborhood should be your first port of call. There’s Italian, Chinese, and other cuisines common to the Western palate… but why eat stuff you can get anywhere in the world? When in Trinidad, I enjoy as much Trini food as possible. I haven’t been to Woodford Cafe in a while, but I’ve always enjoyed my meals there. I love the vibe at Sweet Lime. And on my last visit I fell head over heels with Veni Mange, the quirky, colorful, vibrant restaurant owned by cultural icon Allison Hennessey and her fantastic sister Roses Hezekiah. It’s all about tropic ambiance — art explodes off the wals and even the tables and chairs are painted, and the jalousies add an old time Trini touch that I loved. I’m mad at myself that I didn’t order the chip chip cocktail (even Fodors gave it a mention!) but I loved the stewed beef and dumplings I ordered. Another awesome New York Times review makes me want to go back. Their callaloo really is to die for.

5. Tobago. In general. It is with great regret that I admit that I haven’t been back to Tobago since my honeymoon (which as of this week was seven years ago)! I’ve been meaning to go back ever since. Trinidad is built up and busy. Tobago remains a beachy, laid back jewel of an island. I miss it. Store Bay is the place for local souveniers and Tobago’s culinary specialty, curry crab and dumpling. Glass bottom boats take tourists out to the coral reefs from the beach at Store Bay and the gorgeous Pigeon Point, it’s an enjoyable trip even for a non-seafarer like me.

There are lush accomodations to be found in Tobago for sure. If you’re looking to live the lavish life complete with cocktails on the beach, I highly recommend the stunning Coco Reef. I assure you, it can provide the idyllic island escape of your dreams. For nature lovers looking for a more rustic experience, I urge you to check out the ArnosVale Hotel. At 4 p.m. every day the hotel offers a truly amazing high tea that bird watchers the world over flock to witness. Set high in the thickly vegetated hillside, the restaurant’s balcony features a long, deep trough that is filled with fruit. Birds from all over the island come to enjoy the bounty. I’m talking about brightly colored, beautiful songbirds the likes of which you hardly ever see! It’s something to be experienced, for sure.

And there you have it – some of my favorite spots in Trinidad and Tobago. It’s smart to visit just about any of these places with a large group, as much as I hate to admit it, my homeland isn’t as safe as it used to be. But if you’re a smart, savvy traveler with your head on your shoulders and the brains to be aware of your surroundings, stash your money safely and flash your wealth at your own risk — you should be just fine.

It must be noted that I’m from Port of Spain AKA “the West,” so I know I’ve left out a legion of fantastic places to visit throughout the rest of Trinidad. And Tobago, for that matter. All the more reason for me to go back home soon! For even more Trini delights, check out this stunning NY Times multimedia feature. I’d LOVE to hear feedback from my fellow Trinis in the comments — where did I forget to mention? Where should I visit next time I come home? What did I miss?