Vacation Do Over!

I’ve been getting a lot of feedback reminding people to be proud of our Trinbagonian treasures. And people have been asking where else worldwide are great places to visit.

Many people are unaware of the many locations you can visit with your updated, valid T&T passport. There are over 104 countries you don’t need a Visa to visit.

It’s time for a Vacation Do Over. We’re so accustom to travelling to the United States, but the world is far bigger than the “States”. Here’s an updated list of locations that’s just a plane ride away:

Anguilla Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Aruba Austria Bahamas Barbados Belize Bermuda Botswana Brazil British Virgin Islands Cayman Islands Chile Colombia Costa Rica Croatia Czech Republic Denmark Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador El Salvador Estonia

Fiji Finland France French Guiana Gambia Ghana Gibraltar Germany Greece Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland Ireland Israel Jamaica Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Lesotho Liechtenstein (see Switzerland)

Italy Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Malawi Malaysia Malta Martinique Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Montserrat Netherlands Netherlands Antilles Nicaragua Niue (South Pacific island) Norway Pakistan Palau (Micronesian islands) Panama Peru Phillipines Pitcairn Island Poland Portugal

Reunion (Indian Ocean) Slovakia Slovenia Spain St Helena St Kitts & Nevis St Lucia St Martin St Vincent & the Grenadines Samoa Seychelles Singapore Solomon Islands South Africa South Korea Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Tanzania Turkey Tuvalu United Kingdom Uruguay Vanuatu Venezuela Zambia Zimbabwe

But you’re asking yourself: How am I going to afford this? Here are some tips from travelling gurus from around the world:

Look out for free flights

There are so many ways to earn free flights, sign up for a few travel credit cards, collect miles, and then fly for free. Most cards offer sign-up bonuses of 50,000 points, collect miles and hotel points through credit card rewards, online bonuses, category bonuses, surveys, and special offers. Here are some ways you can use:

Austria, no Visa necessary with a T&T valid passport.

Source those great deals

Sign up for all the airline mailing lists. The special bonus offers airlines have on cars, restaurants, and hotels.

Croatia, no Visa necessary with a T&T valid passport.

Shop online at their member stores

All airlines have special offers with all the big stores: Amazon, Apple, Best Buy, Target, etc. Shopping at those preferred stores will earn you 2–4 miles per dollar spent, sometimes even more. If you spend $1,000 a month, you can earn up to 3,000 miles just by going through their websites.

Hong Kong, no Visa necessary with a T&T valid passport.

Credit card is king

Put everything on your card, from bills to groceries. That’s more miles for in your mileage account.

Mexico, no Visa necessary with a T&T valid passport.

Live local

Bypass the traditional travel industry with sharing economy websites and gain access to locals using their own assets and skills to become small tourism companies with cheaper prices. Locals know where to find deals. They know which supermarket is cheapest, which stores offer the best sales, and where to find the best restaurants and bars with the tastiest food at the lowest prices. The top websites include:

• Airbnb (accommodation)
• Vayable (tours)
• BlaBlaCar (ridesharing)
• EatWith (meals)

So, make that decision to see the world with this vacation do over! Share your travelling experiences and let me know where is the next location you will be visiting.

A Mental Do Over!

With conflicts brewing, racism, sexism and tensions mounting people are losing their sense of humanity. This will have a catastrophic effect everywhere in the world.

There is a famous saying, “God must be a trini.” We often forget how blessed we are on the islands Trinidad and Tobago; where many races or differing religions live in relative harmony.

We may be going through serious changes financially and socially, but never forget the splendor of the islands! Rediscover the beauty of Trinidad and Tobago with this mental do over! Here are just some to be proud off:

Main Ridge Reserve, Tobago

Main Ridge Forest Reserve, Tobago

The 14,000 acres of the Main Ridge Forest Reserve in Tobago (rising to 876m/1,890ft) encompasses the oldest protected rainforest in the western hemisphere. It became a reserve in 1776, and is full of hiking trails and opportunities for eco adventure.

Grand Riviere turtle nesting site

Grand Riviere turtle nesting site in Trinidad.

Grande Rivière (in northeast Trinidad) is the second largest leatherback turtle nesting site in the world, with 18% of the total global population nesting here. During turtle nesting months (March to September, and sometimes as early as January) — Trinidad and Tobago become two of the world’s most important turtle nesting grounds, and not only for the endangered leatherbacks. Hawksbill, green turtles, and other species — all of which are legally protected on our shores — come up on north and east coast beaches to nest during nesting season.

Steelpan to the world

Exodus steel band at the 2016 Panorama finals in Trinidad.

Steel bands exist all over the globe, from the US to Japan and Australia. Local ones have performed at prestigious venues world-wide. In 2015, a steelpan concerto (the second ever composed) was premiered at the Kennedy Centre in Washington by the US National Symphony Orchestra, featuring pannist Liam Teague. And in case you need the refresher, the steel pan — forged in the Laventille hills above Port of Spain, Trinidad some 80 years ago — is the only acoustic instrument invented in the 20th century.

The majestic La Brea pitch lake

La Brea pitch lake in south Trinidad.

The Pitch Lake at La Brea is one of only three natural asphalt lakes in the world (the other two are in Venezuela and California). The result of a fault in the sandstone 250 feet down, through which crude oil or bitumen seeps, the pitch has been exported for decades, for use on roofs and road surfaces. Though you can walk on its surface, objects have been swallowed up, sometimes reappearing years later as the pitch slowly swirls.

The hottest of hot peppers

Moruga Scorpion Pepper

The Trinidad Moruga Scorpion Pepper was ranked as the world’s hottest pepper by the Guinness Book of Records.

The Nylon Pool, Tobago

The Nylon Pool, Tobago

The Nylon Pools are sand beds in the middle of the ocean, with water as clear as nylon stockings. Only assessable on boat; its mandatory to go with a tour guide. 

The best “Bitters”

Angostura Bitters

The world-renowned Angostura Bitters, while first formulated by Dr JGB Siegert in Venezuela, it has been manufactured in and exported from Trinidad since 1875. Siegert and his family — and the family business — migrated to the island around that time. The Port of Spain company, the House of Angostura, has kept their legendary recipe a secret since 1824.

King of “King Cocoa”

Trinidad and Tobago Cocoa beans

Trinidad & Tobago’s fine flavour cocoa is some of the best in the world. It won first prize in the category of “spicy” in the prestigious Salut du Chocolat in Paris, France, in 2011. Entrepreneurs are working on creating delicious, branded chocolate from cocoa grown right here.

These are just a few facts that bring pride in the hearts of this Trinbagonian. It’s time we have a mental do over!

Share in the comments section what you're proud of from our sweet T&T!

Christmas tree decorating Do Over!

Christmas Tree décor for your delight

I’ve gotten so many questions about the Christmas décor do over. Especially about adding some additional ornament ideas to the Christmas tree. Many people set up their tree in the later part of November, from there, it's all about decorating.

From left: Colors red, green and gold with untraditional ornaments. While silver and white completed the look.

Creative Christmas tree themes can be fun and unusual ways to decorate your tree, with adornments such as family photos, paper stars, flags, starfish, and more. Here are some great tips:

How to decide on a theme?

Chosen theme with Christmas boxes.

Examine your collection closely and ask yourself: Is there an ornament that is particularly meaningful this year? Is there something that must (out of tradition) be present every year? How do you envision your tree to look? For example, are you leaning towards bold and bright or would you prefer to keep the mood soft and serene? Then focus on your favorites and set aside the ones that naturally belong together. Commit to pulling this look together from top of the tree to bottom.

Challenge: Mixing and Matching the Old with the New

Angel heirloom tree topper.

Your tree wouldn't be complete without those cherished heirlooms: your great grandmother's angel; the handmade star that your daughter made; the Santa your husband bought your first Christmas together. Yet, it doesn't stop you from buying that gorgeous ball hanging in the window of your favorite local stores across Trinidad and Tobago (Bright Ideas, Excellent Store, Miguel Moses, Yufee’s). Your collection keeps growing.

How to decorate on budget?

Left: drift wood tree branch while burlap is used to decorate Styrofoam balls.

Skip the classic evergreen tree and pick up on in a totally different color (white, silver or gold), even go ultra-creative and use a drift- wood branch. The more untraditional, the bigger the impact which allows you the flexibility to go a little smaller in size. When it comes to ornaments, you can use your existing one, stick to one bold color so it really pops like red, magenta, lime green or turquoise.

Remember: Get to know the different types of Christmas tree lights, learn some basic safety and care tips so it doesn’t pose a fire hazard.

Keep the questions coming in and email me your Christmas Tree photos to inspire other Christmas Tree Do Overs!

Relationships Do Over!

We’ve all been there, the “bad breakups.” At times, the hardest part of the break up is starting over. Know this, this relationship do over will involve you and you alone. The process of understanding yourself after a disaster just means you can take away what you learnt about yourself and what you want in a friend/lover/husband or wife. Here are some steps you can consider when going through that heartache:  

1. Accept what cannot be changed

Everything you fight brings more pain, heartache, discomfort, bitterness and fear. Everything you accept brings a sense of peace, surrender, and resilience.

2. Act as if this breakup is the best thing in your life right now

Close your eyes and pretend that you WANTED this breakup, that you’re HAPPY to be starting over after a bad relationship. Rest in the knowledge that this is the best thing for you, that starting over is the best thing that could ever happen in your life. Acceptance is the key to starting over after a bad relationship.

3. Don’t believe the lies

What lies are you hearing about yourself, your body, your future, your personality? What lies do you believe? What lies are you telling yourself? “I’ll never find anyone else to love me, because all the good ones are taken” and “I’ll never be able to stop obsessing about my ex or get on with my life.” STOP IT!

4. Believe your ex’s actions over his/her words

Your ex may say everything from “this is all your fault” to “I love you, I’ll never hit you again, I’m sorry. But, how does he/she show you his/her love? Does he/she put you first in life, respect your wishes, and do things to make you happy?  Believe what he/she does, not what he/she says. Let them talk ‘til the cows come home, but if his/her actions don’t support his/her words, then they’re lying to you and them self. Starting over after a bad relationship is about believing people when they tell you who they are.

5. Own your role in the breakup

Usually, relationships don’t work out because of both partners’ actions, personalities, or beliefs. It’s not often one partner who creates a bad relationship. To start over after a bad relationship, figure out your role in the relationship. Don’t feel guilty or blame yourself for anything – just accept that your actions may have contributed to the breakup – or the growth of the unhealthy aspects of the relationship.

6. Remember that everything happens for a reason

Maybe your ex wasn’t ready to be in a relationship, or you weren’t ready to be in a relationship, or you two are not good together. For some reason, it was an unhealthy relationship that had to end. Even if you don’t believe God, trust that synchronicity or the universe or karma is making things unfold exactly the way they should. Starting over after a bad relationship is about believing that the breakup was meant to be.

7. Get help if your ex is struggling with emotional issues

Your ability to heal and start over after your relationship ends can be hobbled by your ex’s psychological or emotional health issues. If your ex – or you – are dealing with depression, anxiety, or other issues, I urge you to talk to a counselor. Even just calling a local help line can help you gain clarity and insight. Don’t rely on the internet for help with something as serious as starting over after a bad relationship with someone who is severely depressed or abusive.

8. Allow yourself time to start over after a bad relationship

Sometimes it takes a long time to heal after a breakup. There is no “normal” amount of time for healing – it takes some people years, while others can bounce back more quickly. To help yourself heal, don’t focus on the pain and guilt. Instead, focus on what you love about yourself, your life, and your future. Where are you going, where do you want to be in one year?

Let me know what you guys are thinking? Share your thoughts on getting over a bad breakup.

Christmas Design Do Overs

Copper and Silver wire Christmas trees 

Many Trinbagonians celebrate Christmas no matter their religion. It's what truly makes us a unique, special group. Nothing beats a sweet "Trini Christmas."

Your checklist always includes great food and friends sharing special moments. But, thinking about how to decorate your home this Christmas?

Times are tough right now, but you can still create amazing Christmas décor in every room of your home. From the front door, the Christmas tree and table tops. If your old decorations are looking like they've had their day or you fancy a change this year, why not have a go at making your own?

Here are some easy, quick fixes; you can get your supplies from Excellent Stores, Bright Ideas even one of the book stores. It's going to be your Christmas Décor Do Over!

Easy traditional Christmas wreath

Make your own gorgeous Christmas wreath this year

You will need:

• Faux green wreath
• Large red, green and gold bows
• 3m of 25mm gold organza ribbon
• Scissors
• Wire cutters
• Glue gun

Easy Traditional Christmas Wreath 

Easy table top "knick knacks"

Make your own cute Christmas table top décor this year

You will need:

• 3 wine bottles
• White, red and brown paint
• Red ribbon
• Brown ribbon
• Twine
• Scissors
• Wire cutters
• Glue gun

Easy table top knick knacks

Easy penguin Christmas ornaments

Make your own creative Christmas ornaments 

You will need:

• Used light bulbs
• White, grey, gold and black paint
• White or gold twine
• Scissors
• Wire cutters
• Glue gun

Easy penguin Christmas Ornament

Easy Christmas table top designs

Make your own gorgeous Christmas décor

You will need:

• Faux green garland
• Large red, green and gold balls
• 3m of 25mm gold organza ribbon
• Christmas lights
• Scissors
• Wire cutters
• Glue gun

Easy table top designs

Do you have any Christmas Design Do Overs you will like to share? Let me know in the comments section.

Turning blogging into business...Career Do Over

"Saucy", the woman behind one of the most popular online sites for ALL Carnival related activities.

The car pulls up and a voice note is sent, “I’m outside”, three minutes later wearing a flowing floral pattern dress, six inch heels and accessories; a complementing clutch and most importantly her smart phone AND portable charger - the last two items are a pre-requisite walks out the social media guru known as “Saucy”. As the founder of one of the most popular social media forums about all things “Carnival”, Trinidad Carnival Diary’s (TCD) Saucy enters the vehicle and immediately goes online to update her various social media pages.

Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago in the 90’s, the internet was in its infancy stage of development. The incremental innovation and tools available online to chat, send emails and converse allowed persons to use the internet for frank, real discussions about areas that were passionate to them.

The individual behind the username Saucy was a part of one such online forum. As an avid lover of Carnival, its events, its costumes and everything in between she discussed her viewpoint about all Carnival related items.

Trinidad Carnival Diary website: www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com

By 2006, Saucy took her passion for this online method of “blogging” and specifically developed her very own blog known as “Trinidad Carnival Diary”, there she discussed her views on all Carnival related topics. The blog’s founder pioneered TCD as an avenue where readers, especially women, who relied on her influence on costumes, fetes, do’s and don’ts, gossip and the exclusives on all key related carnival topics.

The evolution of the TCD brand as an essential component of Trinidad & Tobago’s Carnival for tourists, locals, masqueraders, veterans, newbies and carnival enthusiasts didn’t happen overnight. The efforts of Saucy and her TCD team continued to evolve with the methods to disseminate Carnival information.

TCD celebrates its 10th Anniversary

Flash forward to 2016 as TCD celebrates its 10^th Anniversary and its social media gold, its Facebook followers are over 200,000 and growing, its website provides Carnival and Events information about locations around the world. Its Instagram page, Snapchat, even YouTube pages have a cult following.

TCD Facebook page with over 200,000 followers

What started out as a “blog” grew into a business, as TCD services now include:

·        Masquerader advice and FAQs

·        Band Launch coverage

·        Fete coverage and reviews

·        Carnival Exclusives

·        Exclusive Interviews

·        Photography

·        Caribbean Carnival coverage

·        Event advertisement and promotions

TCD Snapchat

Saucy and by extension her brand TCD is living up to its mission: To be the premiere source for all things Carnival. How did she take this passion for blogging and turned it into a profitable business?

"Frontline" the TCD Carnival event on Carnival Wednesday each year.

Here are her top three tips:

Your number one motivation should be your passion for the craft and not to make money or be popular.

Always operate from a place of honesty, if you give criticism let it be constructive. Remember that and someone will always be offended, stand by your beliefs and defend them if you will but do not subject yourself to pleasing the masses so as not to ruffle a few feathers.

Find your niche, set yourself apart from what everyone else is doing by setting trends and not being a follower. Strive to be an innovative leader in your industry always.

To follow Saucy and TCD check them out on:

Website: www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com

FB/IG: Trinidad Carnival Diary
Snapchat: carnivaldiary