SO MANY SITES TO VISIT DURING CARNIVAL!

Enjoy a scenic drive along the North Coast road where you can see the amazing panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea to the west and the lush green forest and varying green and brown tones of bamboo found in the Northern Range rainforest. You may also spot the hills of Paramin cultivated with herbs and spices.

Along the way stop at the Maracas Lookout which is perched on a hillside. You can taste many local snacks as vendors happily answer your many questions about what preservatives were used and what fruit is sweet and what snack is spicy. There is also a beautiful view of the surrounding bays where you can take photos and videos. As you continue your descent towards the beach you will come upon the ‘I Love Maracas’ signage where you can stop for some cool photos by.

You’ll then proceed to the carpark and across the road from there you will come upon the food vending booths where you will find the Trinidadian specialty- Bake and Shark (sandwich) which can be adorned with a million dressing options including tartar sauce, tamarind sauce, local pepper sauce, shadon beni sauce; think of it and it’s there. You can also add toppings from their wide selection like lettuce, pineapples, onions and tomatoes to name a few.

You can then proceed across the sand to the beach, which being on the Atlantic coast is a bit rough for bathing but doable. The sounds of soca will most likely be heard being played by some crew liming or by the very same food kiosks. There you can enjoy a little dance (wine to the soca) or relax on the beach chairs and umbrellas provided by the company ‘Living Trini’. Enjoy the island vibe and sea breezes while you bite into your Bake and Shark and sip on your Stag or Carib beer.

Q&A Trinidad Carnival post COVID

You are probably wondering like most if you are ready to do Carnival so close after COVID. You are probably wondering what its like on the ground. If either of these questions pertain then this blog is for you.

1. Things are back to normal, normal

Trinis are limers and feters at heart and the pandemic cause a yearning for normalcy. Since the gradual reopening of bars, then the transition to feteing in pods it is quite evident that we are ready for the next stage. Back to large fetes and back to the big stage. I do suspect that some fete promoters and mas bands will maintain a ‘safe zone’ for vaccinated persons only but everything else will be the same. The same vibe, spirit and atmosphere that is Trinidad Carnival will greet you.

2. What if I get COVID-19?

Trinidad and Tobago, like the USA and UK have health care facilities fully equipped to handle COVID-19 and provide you with the care you need on island. Having full comprehensive insurance of course should still be a requirement though for peace of mind to cover the cost of your lost trip and planned activities should this be the case. The reality is that we have to live post COVID-19 so put things in place, pack your bags and go!

3. Would persons find me weird if I wear a mask to fetes?

Persons wore all types of facial masks before so I doubt anyone would cast a second look. But who cares? You are in Trinidad for Carnival- do whatever will make you feel better and have fun! There are many local designers that can create spectacular beaded or bejewelled masks for you or you can have fun and create it yourself!

4. What are the Trinidad entry requirements?

These change periodically so it may be best to visit the Ministry of Health website or Caribbean Airlines website for current entry requirements.

FETEING 101 – Carnival Basics that all Trinidad Carnival Virgins MUST note

Lesson 1- TYPES OF FETES – There are six main types of fetes.

  1. All Inclusive – This type of fete can be described as classy with good vibes. It usually attracts a more mature crowd. There are two main reasons for this: The cost of the ticket and the ambiance. These fetes generally start its cost from upwards of 150USD and includes an array of food, drinks, a unique setup as well as stage performances. Persons tend to sway to the music as opposed to the “jump and wave, mash up the place” that is evident in what we call ‘Big Fetes’.

Dress Code: Elegantly Casual to Dressy: for the ladies… heels, wedges, strappy sandals, long maxi dresses, shorts with dressy tops, dressy long pants romper, hair and makeup on fleek… for the fellas … chinos, shorts, whole shoes, short sleeve shirts, long sleeve shirts, All must look SHARP and classy.

  1. Cooler Fete – As the name suggests this is a fete where you are allowed, sometimes mandated (as no drinks may be on sale), to bring your own alcohol! The need for ice and soft drinks to chase means that a cooler is the best option to house these things. Coolers over the years have become easier to maneuver and also come in varied shapes and sizes! Making them a nice and practical accessory to these fetes.

Cooler fetes are generally a chill vibe but dress codes may differ as cooler fetes can be both dressy or relaxed.

Dress Code: Cool and Comfy: For the ladies…shorts, a nice top, mini dress, short romper, flat and comfortable shoes. For the fellas… boat shoes, loafers, sneakers, shorts, t-shirts, short sleeve shirts etc.

  1. J’ouvert – DUTTY UP! This is an event that most times is facilitated through a street parade at 4am. Persons dress up in basic costumes (e.g. T-shirt and tights, swim suits, etc.) or wear their own gear and hit the streets to the sound of a music big truck while they get dirty with mud, paint, oil, water, chocolate or whatever product your J’ouvert band is using.

Dress code: Functional and Comfortable. For the ladies… sneakers, t-shirt, boy shorts, tights, vest tops etc. For the fellas … sneakers, t-shirts, shorts

Ensure that whatever you choose to wear is not necessarily something you want to use after J’ouvert.

  1. Boat Ride: This type of fete takes place on a boat. The boat can be a catamaran or yacht or a larger boat… they are all referred to as ‘party boats’. The guests are gathered on board and the boat will either stay docked with music playing or will sail around for a short distance before returning to shore/dock. This type of fete is great fun and usually lasts for only few hours (3-6).

Dress Code: Casual Chic/Beach Chic – rule number one when dressing for a boat ride: NEVER WEAR HEELS TO A BOAT RIDE (unless they are wedges and you are A PRO). For the ladies… a swim suit of some sexy sort, short shorts, cover ups, short rompers, anything that is beach sexy and cute. For the fellas, shorts, tshirts, open collar tees or shirts with boat shoes etc. Don’t forget your shades!

  1. Breakfast Fete: The hour these are scheduled as well as the food menu creates this category of event. They begin usually around 4/5am and go till 11am- 12 noon!!! We loveeeee a good breakfast fete! There’s something about the sun rising while your grooving to sweet soca… but I digress.

Dress code: Chic with SHADES.

  1. Big Fete: Okay Okay … so this one refers to those fetes that are catering to a significant crowd size!! Like Army Fete, Soca Monarch etc. They are usually held on a large grassy area such as a savannah or football field. The real excitement is that full soca bands are usually in performance not just artists and you are bound to see flag crews in all their glory!!! Soca heaven! These fetes can be a real treat if you are okay with large crowds of persons in close proximity to you… sometimes touching you, and long bathroom and bar lines. If you are posh/boujee… sometimes these events have a VIP/VVIP section which gives that All Inclusive vibe. Best of both worlds for a little more money.

Dress code: These used to be short pants, tshirt, sneakers and rag kinda vibes…. But now… you can dress up a bit for this as well. Shorts, rompers, comfortable shoes… and fellas… same, shorts, tshirts, short sleeve shirts, comfy closed toe footwear.

Top 5 reasons to book PLAN TNT for your Trinidad Carnival Experience!!

  1. STRESS FREE
    As the name suggests, we are professional planners!! We love to organize and schedule. Let us do that work for you so that all you need to do is show up with your awesome self and ENJOY to the MAX.
  2. ACCESS
    Trinidad Carnival is its own beast of a carnival. Gaining access to events, tickets and parade bands most times prove difficult. Having the ‘know how’ and good links is a must! We have that, so let the professionals do the job for you!

  3. De VIBES CYAH DONE!
    When you secure a Trinidad Carnival Package with Team PLAN TNT you always have a vibes crew to fete with! Even if you travel alone you will have a crew to enjoy and party!

  4.  CARNIVAL VIRGINS ‘R US!
    We cater specially to Carnival Virgins!!! You do not want to tackle the MECCA that is Trinidad Carnival on your own for the first time. Allow our team of experts to guide you on how to survive this experience.

  5. FETE AFTER FETE!!!
    Calling all pumpers and Carnival VETERANS! If you make it through PLAN TNT’s entire Fete List, then U IZZA BOSS! We have the most fetes per package offered and also the widest range. Your Trinidad Carnival with us will definitely be unrivalled.

THREE (3) INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT PLAN TNT

  1. 10 PLUS YEARS in the business!!!! PLAN TNT was Established in 2009 in London, England by Trinidadian Sisters, who were living there at the time, to facilitate friends who were interested in experiencing Trinidad Carnival. They have since relocated back to Sweet Trinidad and Tobago and operate this small family business there.

  2. PREMIUM PACKAGAES. PLAN TNT offers the most premium of packages for the best price. This end to end product/service caters to your every carnival need. And whatever is not included in your package can be added on. All you have to do is contact a representative and make your request known.

  3. PLAN TNT provides an unforgettable experience for individuals travelling alone as well as groups! We create the perfect feting team and experience. Safe transport to and from events, reliable liaisons and we bring the VIBES. This ensures that the only word you leave Trinidad Carnival saying is E P I C!

Don’t believe me? Come see for yourself. Booking is easy and there are payment plan options.