I have been in Trinidad for over one week now! Since my arrival, all the fears have been washed away by the warm air and the cheerful locals. I've been procrastinating on this post, though, leaving it to decay in my drafts for several days now. However, here I come!
There are many things I want to talk about, but I'll touch briefly on each:
My professors are incredibly relaxed. Especially just prior to Carnival (which is a massive celebration coming up in February), the professors seem to realize that students are still hyped up. It seems that at least two of my professors will be playing mas in Carnival this year (my one adorably short, West Indian male professor is a regular participant).
"Playing Mas" means you are part of the Carnival parade. These costumed paraders dance through the streets to the sounds of the steel pan drum and soca music (both of which I love!).
This past weekend was jam packed! I spent Friday on a 5-hour hike into the mountains on the north side of St. Augustine. We climbed up towards the monastery, Mount St. Benedict, and then far beyond.
That night we ventured into Tunapuna, a town just down the road from campus, and watched the steel pan drummers practice for their Carnival performance.
Steel pan drums are such cool instruments! They look basic, but each one can make a million different sounds.
The next day... Maracas Bay!
Ended the trip with coconuts, then returned to St. Augustine. Alas, this week begins with actual lectures and real work to do!
