It had been several years since I made it up to New York City. A friend’s movie filming and another friend’s big promotion were as good of excuses as any to get back to the City that Never Sleeps. Any time I’ve visited, no matter what the occasion, as a foodie I couldn’t help but indulge in the city’s dynamic culinary scene, and this time was no different.
The first stop on this trip was a delightful little Italian restaurant in the heart of Soho called Mamo. My dear friend knowing my foodie appetite and affinity for Italian food booked us a table, and it did not disappoint.
If you are a seafood lover, this restaurant is a must-try! But before I get to the food, what was most notable upon entering the restaurant was its warm and homey, yet elegant, upscale feel. The old-school movie posters, soft lighting, and cozy bar on the first floor offered a unique charm that was undeniable.
For an appetizer, we started with the Insalata di polpo e ceci (octopus salad), which included chickpeas, tomatoes, cherry peppers, and basil leaves. Delicioso! It was so fresh you would think they plucked that octopus right out of the sea.
Normally I would have gone for what my friend ordered, which was the angel hair with shrimp and pistachios. (I had a bite and it was yummy). But when I saw the fish of the day on the specials menu, they had me at branzino. This succulent seabass was served in a lemon butter sauce and fresh herbs. This fish for two (thanks mom for sharing) was accompanied by a fresh garden salad with a simple but delightful vinaigrette. Chef’s kiss!
Considering that Mamo also has a location in Miami and I tend to make it down there more often, a visit to the Sunshine State’s location is definitely afoot! You know, for research purposes and all (insert smile here).
The next day we headed to another restaurant with a Miami location, Zuma. Mom and I first visited the Miami location, which is located inside the beautiful Kimpton Hotel Epic, years ago and fell in love. So of course, when in New York, we had to test and see if the New York location could live up to its sister restaurant down south.
I loved even the entrance to the restaurant. It’s the attention to detail for me.
This upscale, trendy restaurant in midtown Manhattan offers both traditional and unique Japanese cuisine, in my opinion, bursting with flavor in every good way possible. We opted for lunch considering our late afternoon train back to D.C. and intentionally chose dishes that we hadn’t tried at the other location.
I started with the miso soup, which was perfect for a crisp spring day, and offered just the right amount of flavor and warmth. Next, I ventured onto the pirikara hamachi maki roll, which was a spicy yellowtail roll with serrano pepper, avocado, wasabi mayo. I normally wouldn’t choose a roll with that much kick, but I was feeling adventurous. I was assured that it was not a burn-your-mouth type of heat, and my waitress was spot on. It was absolutely delicious, especially adding the fresh sliced ginger to the mix. Mom chose two appetizers, the chicken skewers with spring onion and rock shrimp tempura with chili tofu. The sauce that they served with the latter was amazing.
Another thing to note about Zuma is the authenticity and stunning beauty of the decor. The attention to detail is unmatched. I’ve never been to Japan, but you couldn’t tell me that I wasn’t there on that afternoon. It’s also important to share that the service at both restaurants was impeccable.
Photos just don’t do this place justice.
When in New York, do yourself a favor and make it a point to visit these two dope restaurants, but please make sure you make a reservation. Others know how great they are too. You’re welcome!
On this third annual month-long respite in Anguilla, I pondered what has made this gorgeous island country so enchanting to me. Truth is there are beautiful beaches, abundant sun, delectable cuisine, and good vibes in many places all over the world. And many of them are a lot easier on your pockets.
I figured I would at least attempt to offer my Golden Life tribe a taste of what makes Anguilla so special. In fact, that’s what Parts 1, 2, and 3 have attempted to do. I’ve concluded that there is simply a je ne sais quoi about this place that can only be experienced. But while you’re here, I’d love to share with you some of my new finds and tidbits that I encountered on my most recent visit in January.
When in Anguilla…
I discovered Johnnos, a beloved beachfront restaurant among the locals accidentally. We had a reservation to visit one of Anguilla’s beautiful off-shore islands, Sandy Island (similar to Scilly Cay island we visited last time), and somehow they forgot to tell us they had a private party for the day. Fortunately, Johnnos, which is located right at the dock for the ferries to the island welcomed us with open arms. (Pro tip: When visiting a destination, go to the spots the locals enjoy. In my experience, you can’t go wrong with that. When in Rome…)
I was excited to learn that whole snapper is one of their specialties, and it comes right out of the sea, caught by a local fisherman. Can’t get any fresher than that! To top it off, they are a go-to place for live music on Sunday afternoons. My type of vibe!
Aurora has my heart
In my previous blog posts about Anguilla, I only briefly mentioned the Aurora property, but it’s been a go-to spot every visit. In my opinion, it is one of the top three most beautiful resorts on the island, and I would recommend a stay there if you have the coins to match.
Even if you aren’t a guest, you are allowed to enjoy the property’s abundant amenities such as the spa (which mom and I visited the first year) and the beachfront restaurant and bar, which has fantastic views. It is also cool to visit at night when they host live entertainment.
It’s also important to mention that the Aurora is home to the only golf course on the island, so if you’re a golfer, this is definitely your place to be!
Photo courtesy of Anguilla-Beaches.com
Zemi Take Me Away
I fell in love with Zemi at first sight. For starters, this beautiful boutique resort is located on my favorite beach on the island, Shoal Bay. It also has one of the most beautiful spas I’ve ever seen, and coming from a spa girl, that says a lot! Zemi’s vibe is all about the zen, and they nail that in every crook and cranny of the property.
This time, we enjoyed craft cocktails at their seaside bar and experienced live music and tasty bites at the The Bohio Bar & Sushi Lounge. I highly recommend this experience. And if you’re a spa bum or a boutique hotel lover like me, Zemi is your spot. It also happens to be a Hilton for you Hilton Honors members out there.
For All Seasons
I can’t remember ever visiting a Four Seasons that I didn’t like, and this one certainly did not disappoint. The Four Seasons Anguilla happens to be the only chain resort on the island. During last year’s visit, I indulged in the Spa, which was like its own resort. The views from the relaxing lounge and patio are breathtaking and of course, the massage was one of the best I’ve ever had. I recommend a full day here. You can’t go wrong at any of the restaurants.
This year, my family and friends visited on a Saturday night to check out one of Anguilla’s favorite homegrown bands Omalie 360. Absolutely amazing! Omalie, the band’s lead singer, even invited me up to sing along with him. It was a night to remember!
Omalie, the lead singer of Omalie 360. Be sure to check them out while in Anguilla, they were awesome!
You had me at aloe
I’ve been to many Caribbean islands and cities in Mexico where beach entrepreneurs occasionally sell their massage services. However, the Anguillan beach entrepreneurs made an offer that we just could not refuse – fresh aloe massages. Yes, they come prepared with fresh aloe leaves that they cut and pull fresh aloe juice from to serve as the ointment for your foot and leg massage. Yes please! I can not tell you how soft and refreshing my legs and feet felt after that treatment.
My mom and our friend on the Straw Hat terrace on NFL SundayThis massage felt like what I would imagine heaven feels like.We made fast friends with Straw Hat Manager Doris.
I’m not sure where else they offer their services, but we experienced this piece of heaven on the beach in front of Straw Hat at the Frangipani Resort. By the way, if you are a sports fan this is your spot! In addition to having a fabulous beach, the restaurant area has multiple screens sharing live sports from the US and all over the world for your viewing pleasure. As we visited during NFL playoff season, this became our Cheers every Sunday.
If you’re still not convinced that Anguilla is a place for you to visit, just know that I’m happy to continue to do the research for you (smile). Clearly, this little island has a lot to offer, and I’m looking forward to seeing what gems I will find during my next visit. You’ll certainly be the first to know!
In 2022 Mom and I started what has now become an annual tradition of spending the month of January on a beautiful little island country named Anguilla. To say that it is completely restorative and refreshing would be accurate, and also an understatement. This time away has become necessary for my overall well-being.
It is during these retreats I have been the most reflective and in turn, inspired. On this trip, I have thought a lot about what it means to be present. To me, it means being fully attuned and connected to the moment of now.
Mom taking a moment to soak in all the beautiful scenery in Anguilla, even on a cloudy day.
The time away, which consists of longer periods spent disconnected from technology, always allows me to savor the “right now” moments in my life. In fact, we can call this blog post a Part 2 to Right Now, a post I wrote two years ago almost to the day. As I reflect on the contribution that our devices have had on our growing inability to appreciate the present, I can’t help but consider how we got here.
For a moment it seemed that the global shutdown helped us in that it forced us to interact more with our loved ones at home. However, one of the many ways that it did more harm than good is that it reinforced and exacerbated our deep dependence on technology.
We have become so tethered to technology that many of us have forgotten how to be with each other. We use our devices as a crutch during silent moments. Our conversations are often interrupted by the sudden pings of not just our phones, but our smartwatches, which keep us constantly “connected.” Sadly, however, we’ve never been more disconnected. Our fixation with our gadgets has in many ways made introverted people more introverted and even caused extroverts to become introverted. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not criticizing introversion. But when it happens at the expense of our abilities as humans to communicate with each other and appreciate what is happening right in front of us “offline,” Houston, we have a problem.
How did we get here?
One click…
One like…
One text…
One post…
One binge…
One emoji…
One reel…
At a time.
So how do we coexist with and benefit from technology while also remaining present to and focused on the beautiful moments in front of us? It probably looks different for each person, but I’ll start with a few of my own new habits.
Setting boundaries around my technology. This includes keeping my phone on silent, only answering or responding during designated times throughout the day, and not letting every little ping interrupt me from what I’m focused on in the moment. It might even include at some point purposely leaving my phone behind at times. *InsertGasp here.*
Asking myself, “What is the present moment inviting me to notice or be aware of?” Searching for the beauty in each moment we get here on Earth helps me to value each minute I have. I’ve found most times, I don’t have to look very far for the beauty around me. It’s often in the people I’ve been overlooking when my face is buried in one of my devices.
Changing scenery every so often. Going away to places like Anguilla is awesome, but not practical for everyday living. I’ve found that even just working from a new place in my house from time to time gives me a newfound perspective. And with a newfound perspective comes another opportunity to see hidden gems around me.
I always thought wasting time was about doing something pointless or unnecessary. Now I see the worst type of time wasted is experiencing each precious day on Earth that we’ll never get back again and not being fully present to the beauty of the things and the people around us.
We’ve seen movies and TV shows that point to the threat of technology completely taking over our lives. And yet, we seem to be completely unbothered by the fact that fiction is slowly but surely becoming our truth.
So how do we fix it? I’m not here to judge or attempt to provide an answer because truth is, I’ve certainly been complicit in technology’s takeover. It’s a rhetorical question, but one I hope encourages all of us to ponder the individual roles we have in reclaiming our gift of the present. Because it is, in fact, a gift; and it matters to our humanity.
I’ve had two revelations recently. One – the more I age, the more I realize how little I know about this world. Sure, I’ve become wiser, as we all should as we age. But the more I know, the more I realize how little I know in comparison to all there is to know under God’s sovereignty. Before I get all philosophical and Ecclesiastes on you – because that’s not what this post is about – let me share the second revelation. With each holiday season, the less I want and the more grateful I am for what I already have.
I’ve made this personal because it’s my blog, but I have a sneaking suspicion that I’m not the only one who’s had this revelation. And while I said I was moving on from Ecclesiastes, I do want to point out something so wise, yet simple and still very relevant that King Solomon wrote in his nearly three-thousand-year-old segment of scripture. Most of what we treasure is meaningless anyway. Well, he said “everything,” but I’m trying to be a little less dramatic.
Before you get the wrong impression though, let me share why this revelation is so encouraging and full of hope. God has already given us the greatest and most valuable gift in the world. We don’t have to wait for it, nor do we have to do any toiling or spending to get it. We already have it. And that “it” I’m referring to is Jesus, in case you didn’t already know. Despite how cliche it sounds, it doesn’t make it any less true – He is in fact, the reason for the season.
I’ve believed in and accepted the gift of Jesus, and the Holy Spirit He left here with me as evidence of His presence for some time now. But the more I’ve gotten to know Him and about Him, the more I value Him and His sacrifice. And the more I value Him, the less value I place on the “stuff” of this world. And that is a gift in and of itself. It’s actually freeing to be more tied to Him and less tethered to the things of this world.
But, let me be clear. I truly appreciate and am grateful for all the “things of this world” that God has allowed me to have. They have certainly made life more comfortable than it could have been without them. What this revelation has provided me with though, is perspective. And I think we could all benefit from a little of that.
Transparently, this perspective has helped me navigate this very uncertain and uncomfortable season I’ve found myself in recently. Without it, I honestly don’t know how I’d feel. But, what I do know is that I’m grateful. I’m more grateful than I ever have been. And yet, I have less than what I’ve had in other seasons of my life, from a worldly point of view.
I’m sharing this because I know that the more commercialized this season becomes, the harder it is for us to see what really matters, not just for the season, but in life. I hope my revelation has either reminded or ignited in you a fresh perspective that fosters gratitude. Whether you have a little or a lot of what the world has to offer, it truly always is the season to be grateful.
There’s nothing quite as powerful for a mindset shift as a change in scenery.
This week I’m returning from vacation to a place that I visited for the first time earlier this year. I don’t normally visit the same place twice in one year, especially one that is out of the country. However, the first time I visited the beautiful island country of Trinidad, I spent the majority of my time working.
The purpose of my trip this time was a true vacation. Normally my vacations consist of ample time to explore and experience everything a destination has to offer. However, the hustle and bustle of my everyday life had me essentially limping onto the plane, desperate for some relief from all the demands of my life.
The words person that I am, I decided to look up the definition of the word vacation.
It comes from the Latin word vacātiō, which means “exemption from service, respite from work,” and traces back to vacāre, “to be empty, be free, have leisure.”
I felt all of that on this trip.
While I intended to see a lot more of the county on this visit, it turns out, that’s not really what I needed. I needed to rest. I needed to reset. I needed to restore. I needed to be still.
And still, I was.
I loved leisurely starting my day each morning with yoga and ginger tea.
I think many of us have come to believe that we always have to be doing something, even on our vacations. Some of us can’t even begin to understand the concept of having leisure. But recently, my pastor Keith Battle inspired me with his series entitled “Margin” to take a deeper look into why I was so drained and exhausted going into my vacation in the first place.
I lacked margin – what he calls the space between our resources (skills, wisdom, finances, time, etc), which are limited, and our responsibilities (commitments and obligations for work, family, ministry, etc.), which sometimes seem to be never ending. For most of us, that space is non-existent, and even worse, for some of us, our responsibilities exceed our resources. This lack of space between our resources and our responsibilities is exactly what has the majority of us in a constant state of exhaustion.
Going into this vacation with a newfound mindset that gave me the grace and freedom to do nothing, I came back refreshed, renewed, and restored in ways that I haven’t felt from a vacation in a long time. If you’re anything like me, you’re likely in need of a do-nothing vacation too. I know, you may be saying to yourself, I can rest at home. The reality is that most of us don’t. We need that change of scenery (and climate for me) to put us on the road to recovery.
A return visit to Maracas Bay beach was very necessary.The view from the Maracas Bay Lookout never gets old.
While I did rest a lot, I want you to know that I didn’t come back to my golden life tribe empty-handed. In addition to the Trinidadian treats I shared in the musing from my first visit, “A Trip Fit for a Queen,” I have a few more recommendations for any of you planning to visit.
I couldn’t resist capturing a photo opp under this beautiful tree in the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Take a stroll or have a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens. If you are a nature lover, or you just enjoy peaceful, serene environments, this is a must for you. With a mini zoo on the property, filled with lively, colorful birds, it offers an abundance of flora and fauna that is sure to delight your senses. This Garden, which happens to be one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, also offers areas where you can sit and enjoy a bite to eat with a friend or enjoy some “me” time. There are also fascinating views of the President’s House, as well as beautiful rolling hills that can serve as a mini hiking experience.
Grab local fare from Queen’s Park Savannah. In addition to boasting the world’s largest roundabout, and offering views of some of Trinidad’s magnificent seven buildings, including castles, this beautiful park hosts food trucks that sell some of Trinidad’s best cuisine in the evenings. They serve everything from shark and bake, a local favorite, to some North American favorites like fried chicken wings and tacos. The Queen’s Park area also hosts numerous festivals, including the Pan African Festival, which I visited back in July and August.
Take in the breathtaking view of the city at the famous lookout points. One of the most charming attributes of Trinidad is the natural beauty that you can take in from several lookouts around the capital city of Port of Spain. The Maracas Bay lookout was definitely deserving of another visit, and this time I was also able to take in the daytime and nighttime views of the Lady Young Road Lookout. While you’re there, shop some of the local vendors and sit down and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat from Tastee Tobago. This cute little restaurant has great food representing Tobago, Trinidad’s sister country, and offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and Queen’s Park Savannah.
Talking about gratitude never gets old for me. Here’s why. It’s essential for joyful living. And who doesn’t want to live with joy?
We just entered the true fall season here on the East Coast of the United States. It happens to be my second favorite season of the year. The reason that it’s not the first is primarily because of the loss of daylight hours. It’s the sun for me, or rather lack thereof. While it’s really one thing that keeps this season from being in first place, it has been significant enough for me to secretly dread the season. And where there is dread, there is no joy.
Having been on this intentional gratitude journey for some years now and seeing the wonders it has done for my mood and overall disposition, I decided to apply this same intention to how I felt about the change in seasons. Here’s what I learned.
By focusing my attention on what I loved about the season – the beauty of fall foliage, the soothing satisfaction of warm beverages, the comfort and style of fall gear – I shifted my perspective. The perspective shift brought a new level of joy to this season that I hadn’t felt before.
2. As I made a conscious decision to express gratitude for the people and things around me in this season, the more there was to take delight in and savor. It’s as if I began to see with new eyes.
When I choose to be fully present in each moment and experience and find something to be grateful for in all of them, there is an abundance of joy that I can find in the darkness as well as the light.
As you experience this fall season, whether it is your favorite or not, I encourage you to consider adding intentional gratitude into your daily routine. You might just learn some lessons of your own that you can carry into the next seasons and beyond.
To say I appreciate great entertainment is an understatement. As a young child into my early 20’s I lived on the stage. The performing arts were always my safe space. Whether I was dancing, singing, or modeling in my childhood living room or performing to sold-out audiences at Constitution Hall, a large music venue in my hometown of D.C., I gave you everything I had. And I loved every minute of it. While at some point I decided to cultivate other talents and pursue different dreams, the love of performing arts never left me.
My girl group Visions circa 1998, around the time Destiny’s Child released their first album.
That’s why from the first time I was introduced to Beyonce as a teenager, a member of a girl group myself, I held a lot of respect for her. Whether or not someone likes her music or her as a person is and always will be subjective. What can not be debated is the fact that she is one of the greatest entertainers of our time. And her most recent Renaissance tour proved that fact.
The final numbers are still coming in from her tour, which just ended last week, but it has already surpassed previous tours in revenue. Ultimately, it is projected to be the highest-selling tour in history…perhaps by anyone. But beyond revenue generated from actual ticket sales and Beyonce branded merchandise, the economic impact of her mere presence in each city she visits is nothing short of phenomenal.
From the moment Mom and I touched down in Houston, Beyonce’s hometown, the Beyonce effect had already taken hold. As the flight attendant welcomed all of us from D.C. to Houston, nearly half the plane erupted in cheers. On our journey to baggage claim, we were met with lifesize cardboard versions of Beyonce. Of course, her fans could not resist snapping photos and videos in front of them. This was only minutes into our trip. I’m certain non-Beyonce fans were already sick of us.
I’m familiar with how entertainment can impact the economic development of a city having served as communications director of the Film Office in D.C. for several years. It was the very point of the agency’s existence – to attract film and TV projects to the nation’s capital in order to bring valued dollars into the city by way of productions spending time there patronizing restaurants, hotels, and basically anywhere you spend money.
Renaissance was on a whole other level.
Couldn’t resist snapping a photo in front of this cool mural in the Galleria mall.
On our first day in Houston, we ventured out to Houston’s Galleria Mall, which happens to be the largest mall in Texas. On any given weekend the mall is no doubt bustling with shoppers. However, the way the checkout line at Sephora was wrapped around the entire store you would have thought it was Black Friday. In each store we went to, shoppers were either eyeing, trying on, or buying out all the silver items in the store. (If you hadn’t heard, in late August, Queen Bey requested that all her fans wear silver to all her remaining shows in honor of Virgo season.) The restaurants had wait times of at least an hour.
Speaking of restaurants, be sure to visit Lucille’s while in Houston. The food was delish!
What impressed me most, however, was Houston’s BeyHive homecoming party “HOU Run the World” on Avenida Plaza on Saturday night. Mom and I were thankful we had tickets to Bey’s Sunday night concert so we could attend. Let me tell you, Houston knows how to throw a party for their girl!
The night included a local DJ, an amazing hour of old-school and new-school tunes from The Drywater Band, and a dope 15-minute fireworks and drone show that featured more than 400 Beyonce-themed drone displays. Even the mayor of Houston Sylvester Turner gave opening remarks. The show, mostly geared towards Beyonce fans who couldn’t attend her concert, brought out thousands who were dressed in their Bey-inspired gear and purchased signature cocktails and other refreshments. Restaurants along the plaza, like Pappadeaux where we dined that evening, extended their hours to accommodate all of the diners who were hungry after the free show. You know what that meant for the city of Houston. Cha-ching!
The drone show featured everything from the signature silver Renaissance horse to the single ladies’ ring.
I know it goes without saying that the show was amazing in every way. No doubt you’ve seen the millions of videos on social media since the start of her tour confirming as much. For me, what was almost as fascinating as the show itself, was how her fans showed up. The effort and energy that the Bey Hive put into their costumes and making an experience out of attending her concerts was mesmerizing. The people-watching was entertainment in itself. People of all ages, sizes, colors, genders, sexual orientations, and any background you could think of came out to slay.
My mom was ready…isn’t she the cutest?!Mom and I waiting for the show to start!I did NOT buy a silver outfit…Beyonce is not the boss of me lol! But I did wear silver earrings in solidarity. 🙂
In the opening line of the trailer for a movie documenting the Renaissance Tour experience Beyonce proclaims in her signature breathy tone, “When I am performing, I am nothing but free. The goal for this tour was to create a space where everyone is free.” As I watched each fan express themselves uniquely and confidently in their Bey-inspired gear throughout the weekend, whether they went to the concert or not, it was clear that Beyonce crushed that goal.
Throughout history, there have been many artists to sell out stadiums and attract visitors to cities sparking economic development on their tours. But from my vantage point, there is no one who has done that quite like Beyonce.
Last week I had an opportunity to be a part of and witness something really special. It’s hard to quite capture the dopeness of it all, but let me at least try.
My mentor, Juanita ‘Busy Bee’ Britton, who you’ve seen featured in my last two blog posts, is not only a phenomenal travel curator of cultural experiences, and Queen Mother in Ghana. She is first and foremost, the consummate businesswoman. Not that she had anything to prove, but she further demonstrated her business prowess by adding yet another retail operation to her portfolio of more than a dozen restaurants and shops in Ronald Reagan National Airport and Dulles International Airport through her partnership with award-winning airport retailer and restaurateur Paradies Lagardère. And I was blessed to provide communications support for the grand opening of this amazing new store.
The new Goods@DCA, is the first of its kind, boasting 24-7 automation services by way of Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology; Clockwork Automated Manicures, a revolutionary technology that delivers flawless, automated manicures in just 15 minutes for $15; state of the art vending machines that offer fresh selections even when the store is closed; and the new “Lift and Learn” Technology, powered by Perch, allowing shoppers to engage with books in an innovative way.
Speaking of books, let me share what amazed me most about this new business concept. Not only did Juanita partner with big corporate entities like Amazon, Starbucks (which opens later this year), and istore Express, which features high-end electronics; she invited DC-based independent bookstore and beloved local treasure MahoganyBooks to be a part of the deal as well. She took this as an opportunity to help elevate the brand and offer national exposure and expansion for another local black-owned business. Now that’s dope!
But let me share with you what brought me the most joy and inspired me to write this month’s musing. At every turn and corner of this grand opening event, I saw a black woman shining. As a black female entrepreneur it was truly inspiring and heartwarming to witness the wildest dreams of my ancestors unfolding in real life.
Nikki Harland offering praise to Juanita during her remarks.Can’t wait to dig into April Ryan’s new book!Juanita having a sweet moment with her mother.
As I watched the Chief Operating Officer of billion-dollar retailer Paradies Lagardère Nikki Harland come to the podium and offer her warm remarks, I smiled proudly. As I chatted with April D. Ryan, the only Black female reporter covering urban issues from the White House who hosted a book signing for her third book, “Black Women Will Save the World, An Anthem,” my heart fluttered. As I observed award-winning MahoganyBooks co-founder Ramunda Young work the room and warmly smile for photos, I grinned with joy. As I witnessed Denise Rolark Barnes, the publisher and second-generation owner of The Washington Informer, one of the oldest and premiere multimedia organizations serving the African American community in the DMV, capture the moments of the occasion, I nodded in amazement. Naturally, as I watched Juanita Britton, my mentor, stand at the center, orchestrating and coordinating it all, my whole being jumped for joy. And as she continued to humbly uplift and recognize her General Manager of 20+ years Nivlem Dickens, my heart beamed with pride.
Juanita commanding the room, as usualJuanita, my beautiful mother, and NivlemIt’s official…the ribbon has been cut!
Last month, I hosted the second installment of a business concept I started during Women’s History Month this year entitled, SheShines. The purpose of this event series is to honor, feature, and support the businesses of black female entrepreneurs in the DMV (District, Maryland, Virginia region). Essentially, it’s a smaller scale version of what I was able to witness at the Goods@DCA, and it has no doubt further broadened and brightened my vision and dreams for the future. Oh the things we could accomplish by bringing all of our unique, God-given talents and skills into one place! I pray that some day the women of SheShines will inspire the next generation of black females in business because what’s evident is that we shine brighter when we all shine together.
Note: The next time you’re traveling and you happen to be in Terminal 2, Concourse D, be sure to stop by The Goods@DCA to help a sister shine brighter.
A country that had been on my “places to visit” list for more than a decade. A prayer request to do what I love most and get paid for it. A phone call that converged these two desires into a reality came on a Monday, and by Friday I was living in it.
The phone call came from a mentor and dear friend Juanita Britton, affectionately known as “Busy Bee.” A serial entrepreneur since childhood, she is most well-known for her successful retail businesses across the DMV (District, Maryland, Virginia), including a portfolio of more than a dozen airport stores. She also hosts an annual Holiday Gift & Art Show that attracts thousands of shoppers every year and manages an educational and cultural travel service company, which arranged the Cuba trip I wrote about last month. Oh and by the way, she also happens to be a Queen Mother in Ghana. Hence the pathway that led us to Trinidad…
How it all started
In October 2011, Juanita was officially enstooled as Queen Mother Botwe Nana Adobea II of Konko Village in the Eastern Region of Ghana, West Africa. She was bestowed this high honor through her non-biological connection with a family matriarch in Ghana known as a “King Maker.” Considering her extensive entrepreneurial success, in this role she is responsible for development projects and educational improvements for a community of nearly 600 citizens of Timber Nkwanta. Just in her short time as Queen Mother, she has helped to pave a 12-mile road there connecting her community with vital resources in other towns along the road, helped to build or fix nearly a dozen wells, and started a handful of businesses that are fostering economic development. She’s also supported the opening of a 3,000 sq foot library and medical post among other educational programs through Literacy Empowerment Action Project (LEAP) (By the way, they are in need of donations so if you’re looking for a great cause to support, consider donating!) On top of all that, she’s begun planning for a major festival that will further help to put this quaint town on the map, literally.
It was in this capacity as Queen Mother that she was invited to be part of the official welcoming and ceremonial cultural presentation for the Ashanti King of Ghana’s visit to the annual Pan African Festival commemorating the Emancipation Day celebration in Trinidad. Each year this major festival (only second to the festival of all festivals – Carnival) is held the last week of July, culminating on Emancipation Day, August 1. This day marks the day the enslaved Africans throughout the British Empire were liberated. Nearly 20,000 people from all over the Caribbean, Africa, and other countries across the world converge on the streets of Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad and Tobago, to celebrate freedom and build a sense of identity and pride in their African roots. To sum up the experience in a few words…it was soul awakening.
The Home of Carnival
Upon arriving, we fully immersed ourselves in the Trinidad experience by indulging in some hot doubles, a local street food made of fried dough and curried chickpeas. I’m typically not into certain types of curry or chickpeas, but being the foodie that I am, you know I had to try! The verdict – delicious!
Next, we stopped by the Emancipation Village, also known as Queens Park Savannah, which is where most of the festival activities were held. It was here that I fell in love with the country and its people. From the talented vendors who sold their unique clothing, art, and food, to the performers who came from all sects of the African Diaspora to share their gifts with festival goers, it was truly a heart-warming and fulfilling experience.
Our Home in Trinidad
Our home for six days was the festival host hotel, the Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre. Sitting on a hilltop, the hotel overlooks Queen’s Savannah Park where we spent most of our days, so the hotel couldn’t have been more convenient. Out of all the things I enjoyed about this hotel, it was the views for me. A long corridor connecting the main building to the towers in which we stayed offered a breathtaking view of the Trinidad skyline and gorgeous sunsets. On the other side of the corridor was the hotel’s expansive pool area. I would’ve slept in that hallway if I could have.
While the executive suite where we stayed was quite spacious and offered two bathrooms and two large balconies, the furniture and decor left much to be desired. The hotel in general is in need of some upgrades, but fortunately, everything was clean and the entire staff was kind, welcoming, and accommodating. I give them major kudos for that considering the hotel was at capacity due to the festival and several other big events happening in the area.
As far as food goes, breakfast was my favorite meal of the day. The hotel offers a complimentary buffet breakfast that includes an omelet station, an assortment of fruit & pastries, meats, and even brunch items like roasted vegetables. Even if you don’t normally eat breakfast, a piece of advice – don’t skip it here!
I couldn’t help but snap a shot of this beautiful red piano under the staircase leading to the hotel’s restaurant.As a side note, be sure to stop by Yardie Jerk & Barbecue while in town. This brother taught himself how to cook, and from the taste of his food, he is truly anointed!
Beach Bums
While Tobago, the smaller of the dual-island combo of Trinidad & Tobago is better known for its beaches, we ventured out to Maracas Beach on our free day. A scenic one-hour drive to the beach from Port of Spain led us through a beautiful rainforest, which turned out to be one of the best and more memorable highlights of this trip. In addition to amazing photo ops, we indulged in souvenirs and local treats from vendors along the narrow rainforest road.
Upon arriving at the beach, which is located on Maracas Bay between a collection of mountains, we couldn’t resist indulging in another popular local treat – bake and shark. The bake part is fried flatbread and the shark is, well, pretty self-explanatory. Yes, in this beautiful island country, they eat the shark, not the other way around. What does it taste like you may ask? A really yummy fish!
The Queen’s Court
I was blessed to be invited on this trip to serve as a communications liaison for Queen Mother Juanita, along with two other Ghanaian beauties who were assigned the roles of linguist and assistant. Upon arrival, we immediately deemed ourselves “The Queen’s Court.” It was our responsibility to make sure that she showed up on every occasion representing well, and we were grateful to do so.
But don’t get it twisted, the queen’s court was not all work and no play. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves during our time off shopping in the village, sitting poolside at the hotel, and of course schmoozing at the lobby bar, the center of all the action. By the way, if you visit the Hilton Trinidad, be sure to grab a drink from my favorite bartender Micaiah and tip him well. He was awesome (not to mention easy on the eyes)! Tell him I sent you.
The King is Here!
Each year, a new dignitary from a country within the African Diaspora visits Trinidad for the purpose of experiencing how the continent is recognized and celebrated in this country. This trip for the Ashanti King Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II, known as the Asentehene, was no different. Arriving a few days before Emancipation Day, he received a grand welcome from the Ghanaian delegation in town for the festival at the hotel. From what I understand, on the spectrum of welcoming presentations, it was pretty low-key, but to me, it felt like I was in a real-life version of Coming to America. Though this movie would be called Coming to Trinidad (smile).
By the way, I can say that I had another first on this trip. I got to meet a real life King! Of course, his handlers wouldn’t allow photos, but having the memory etched in my brain is enough for me.
To prepare for this welcome, Queen Mother’s court went to work dressing her in the finest of Ghanaian kente cloth and footwear. What struck me most about documenting this experience was the level of care and respect that is offered in honoring these traditions and celebrating their heritage. From the undergarments to the jewelry, everything is placed and worn for a specific reason and communicates something different.
Let Freedom Ring
Of course, on Emancipation Day, the grand welcome and fanfare went up several notches. A red carpet was rolled out, dignitaries were escorted on stage according to their roles and positions, and the crowd assembled on the other side of the red carpet to take in the momentous occasion. The speaking program included a range of speakers from local leaders and organizers of the festival to the Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago and foreign diplomats. The nearly two-hour program celebrated a rich African history, while also educating the diverse crowd on lesser-known facts about the country’s challenges with overcoming the effects of slavery.
The speaking program was followed by a lively parade and street procession filled with dance troupes, trucks carrying steel pan bands and African drummers, and colorful Moko Jumbies (stilt walkers) dancing among the crowd. It was quite an experience to be in the mix of it all. The Pan-African Festival website articulates perfectly that it is “a profound experience of ancestral reverence and joyful celebration of the triumph of the human spirit over tyranny.” It truly lives up to its claim of being the best and biggest celebration of the continent outside of Africa.
If you are someone like me who has had the desire to visit Trinidad, specifically for Carnival, consider the Pan African Festival and Emancipation Day as an alternative, or in addition, if you have the coins to swing it. Not only will you get the excitement and spirit of the country, but you will also get a true immersion experience into the rich African culture that exists at its foundation.
I first visited the beautiful island country of Cuba six years ago. If you know anything about the relations between Cuba and the USA, a lot has changed since 2017. But I was grateful to have had the opportunity to visit again and experience one thing that hasn’t changed – its magic. (Click here to read Part I “Review: My Cuban Adventure”).
As the title of this post suggests, thanks to my good friend Juanita “BZB” Britton’s Off the Beaten Path Tours, I was able to see much more of this magical island than I did the first time. And while the main tourist attractions are still worthwhile experiences, learning more about the rich African culture made this visit to Cuba even more special.
Me and my good friend Juanita who curated this amazing experience.
There’s no place like home
Before I get into the new adventures I experienced, let me first share a little about our home for six days. Since my favorite travel buddy and I cruised the first time, we didn’t have the hotel experience. I had heard that many of them were a bit outdated and not up to American standards so I was glad we cruised the first time. This time we stayed at the less than a year-old Grand Aston La Habana Hotel, which was absolutely beautiful. Not only did it have the most gorgeous artwork displayed around the property, the rooms and common areas had the most lovely decor. Additionally, the infinity pool overlooking the Havana Bay was delightful and I saw the most amazing sunrises every morning from our room.
A few things to note about the hotel though…other than breakfast (which is included), you’re better off going somewhere else for food. They advertise room service, but they didn’t have many of the items on the menu, which is already limited. Every one of us who had massages thoroughly enjoyed our services, but it is not a full-service spa with amenities. You’re in and you’re out.
Off the beaten path
Anyone who knows me knows that I’m the ultimate beach bum, but I do love me a little culture as well (smile). This time, I was really excited to see “the other side of Cuba” beyond the traditional tourist sites. We got to experience what Juanita, our tour curator called “indigenous cultural tourism.”
A beautiful view of the valley on the way to Matanzas
Our first step off the beaten path was to visit an artist village and learn more about the rich Yoruba (ethnic group originating in West Africa) traditions steeped in the culture. We visited homes, walked the streets lined with mural-adorned walls, and enjoyed music and dance performances by the beautiful people who welcomed us to learn more about their heritage and experience their way of life.
I just had to snap this photo of my gorgeous mama against this dope backdrop. Isn’t she lovely?!
One of my favorite parts of the day was exploring the street art of Havana’s Callejon de Hamel, created by talented muralist and artist Salvador Gonzalez. He helped to transform what was formerly a crime-ridden slum into a charming two-block alley-way filled with stunning Afro-Cuban art that pays homage to the Yoruba Santeria culture and religion. On Sundays, the day we visited, you can enjoy charming, energetic dancers who accompany the sounds of their native rumba music. We wore white in honor of the Santeria culture and religion that is practiced in Cuba.
On another day, we took a day trip to Matanzas, an African community 56 miles east of Havana. It is known for its Afro-Cuban folklore and is the birthplace of the music and dance traditions danzón and rumba. We visited a site that held artifacts from the descendants of the Dahomey kingdom in West Africa. So dope!
The food, the music, the art, oh my!
Since I offered a pretty comprehensive overview in Part I I won’t go into extensive detail here. But I must say, as far as food is concerned, it was the paladares for the win again! As a refresher, paladares are small, family-run restaurants, usually in converted homes. We found time to visit our beloved paladar next door, Casa Mia, twice for their delicious tostones (and the fine Cuban waiters…ssshh don’t tell anybody lol)! I also thoroughly enjoyed my experience at El Chiquirrin Restaurant in Matanzas, as not only the food was good, we were serenaded by their wonderful house band!
The music and art was pretty much abundant wherever we went, but there was one particular place we went that captured it all. That was the Cuban Art Factory (Fabrica de Arte Cubano). Set in a former cooking oil factory, this cultural arts center has a little bit of something for everyone from visual and culinary art to an energetic rumba class and fashion show. We got to experience it all! I definitely recommend a visit.
A few more things to know before you go…
As of the time of this blog post, US citizens need a valid passport (must not expire within 6 months of travel), a Cuban Tourist Card or Visa, travel insurance, and a signed affidavit indicating you are traveling under one of the 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba. (We went in support of the Cuban people, justified by bringing art supplies, feminine hygiene products, and other goodies that we donated to the communities we visited.)
For US travelers, cash is king. Do not expect your credit or debit cards attached to any American bank to work there. The locals love (and prefer) your US dollars so there really isn’t a need to exchange them for Cuban pesos.
Be sure to bring toilet tissue with you, as not every restroom (especially in the remote parts) is created equal.
The hotels in Cuba are like many other countries in the world that do not believe in washcloths. So if you’re used to bathing with them, bring them!
The sun is especially oppressive there so be sure to bring and wear lots of sunblock and something to cover your head if you’re going to be outside for long periods of time.
Wifi is sparse so prepare to unplug unless you have an international mobile plan that includes Cuba. We were really only able to access wifi in the hotel.
Check out the show at the Nacional Hotel, it was great! But skip dinner there. Try out one of the nearby paladares instead. You’ll thank me later!
Don’t skip the classic car rides. It was so nice, we went back and did it twice!
This rest stop on the way to Matanzas had the best pina coladas EVER!I’m smiling because it was delicious!This rest stop had the nicest, cleanest toilet…with no TP! lolThis all female band on the Hotel Nacional patio was dope!To be so fancy, the Hotel Nacional restaurant was a huge disappointment.They put on a good show though!I loved the vibrancy of the colors in the costumes and the performers.This paladar had good food, particularly the appetizers and dessert.We didn’t get much salad while there so I’m glad I took a picture of this one lol.Not only was this dessert pretty, it tasted good too.There’s nothing quite like the classic car rides.
Golden Life Musings 