Do's and Don'ts of Carnival
(from
www.visittnt.com)
So - you're here for Carnival in hot and sunny Trinidad and Tobago . Yes, it's the warm and friendly Caribbean , but don't let the rhythms take your common sense away! Here are some reminders to keep you safe and healthy so you can enjoy your stay.
In General:
DO wear light, comfortable clothing. Swimsuits aren't usual city wear, only on Carnival Monday and Tuesday, when anything goes! Well...almost.
DO wear comfortable shoes, e.g. sneakers. Those trekking sandals work well also. There is a lot of walking involved at Carnival time.
DO carry ID with you, including your address while in Trinidad .
DO try the local cuisine from the roadside vendors; just remember to look for the food handler's license.
DO carry and use lots of sunscreen. It is absolutely necessary that you protect yourself from those harmful UV rays. Besides, you wouldn't want to miss the party due to sunburn?
DO drink lots of fluids. Carnival falls right in the middle of our "dry season", so you can get dehydrated easily without recognising it.
DO ask for assistance if you need it. There are many uniformed police, guards, tourism officers, etc. available to direct and help you.
DO check the newspapers and local websites daily for the things to do that day.
DO follow your instincts. If it feels right, do it. If it feels wrong, don't do it.
DO bring (and wear) a shady hat (baseball caps will work) and sunglasses. The midday sun can get quite bright!
DO use common sense, and enjoy yourself.
The DON'Ts are self-evident:
DON'T flash large sums of cash.
DON'T wear lots of expensive jewellery.
DON'T walk in dark areas alone. Use the lit walkways.
In Fetes:
So, you're in Trinidad and looking for a good Fete. Here are some Do's for a memorable time:
DO have your tickets or entrance money with you, but safely tucked away.
DO walk with a waving implement (rag, handkerchief, flag, etc), to have something in hand when the band calls to put your flag in the air.
DO walk with 'vex money': extra money for a taxi to get back to the hotel etc.
DO have with you a cell-phone or a local phone card, in case of emergency.
DO carry a condom, just in case!
DO make firm transportation arrangements prior to going to the fete.
DO wear comfortable shoes -you are sure to be on your feet all night!
The DON'Ts :
DON'T go to the restroom by yourself. Always go in pairs.
DON'T accept drinks from strangers.
In the Mas Band:
So… you're getting ready for the greatest show on the earth! Remember the Boy Scout motto: be prepared!
DO carry with you a pouch or little bag that you can walk with, secured in a safe spot on your person. This may sound like lugging luggage but believe us; it does come in handy when you're out on the road all day. Pack it with the following essentials:
Sun Screen - yes, even the darkest skin burns, you need to reapply this stuff so take some with you.
Sunglasses are a definite must especially for the midday sun!
Vex money - even in an all-inclusive section you never know what you might need.
Cell Phone or Phone Card - emergencies do happen and the ability to check in is always good.
Spare makeup/glitter etc - for those touch ups when the band stops, nothing looks worse than running make-up!
Tissues - let's just say these come in really handy. Also try some wet—wipes in the event that you can't find a pipe.
Tylenol/Panadol/Advil - or your painkiller of choice.
Water - you can get really dehydrated out there, make sure and take water with you or purchase bottled water as you go.
The DON'T's :
DON'T wander off into deserted areas alone.
DON'T let yourself get dehydrated. Alcohol dehydrates so if you're drinking, make sure to chase your beer with bottled water.
DON'T forget that you have only two days to have the best time of your life! So make it memorable…
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