My Unfolding Journey

Trinidad is an often overlooked destination. I admit when I was looking for a place to give me my first taste of voluntourism Trinidad wasn't really even on the list. But once it got on my radar there was no question that it was meant to be. I booked my trip and counted the minutes until my plane would touch down.

The women running the guesthouse were sunny and motherly, always laughing and quick with a smile. They always made sure we had enough to eat and that we were comfortable during our stay. We even had a cooking lesson so we could take a little bit of Trinidad home with us.

Since the volunteer work was to be done in the middle of the night we were left with time to explore the beautiful town. Everyone we met, from the man at the small convenience store at the end of the street (aptly named Dis & Dat) or the guide that was prone pull over to cut us down fresh mangos to eat was so bright and happy to share their colorful and lively culture with us.

Every day I was there was full of adventure. From kayaking down a jungle river to hiking to (and jumping in) stunning waterfalls to learning about the diverse plants and animals that live in the thick jungles as we rode in the back of an open bed truck one can't help but be drawn in by such a magnificent place. The food was an adventure in itself. Trinidad has so many influences from around the world that contribute to their food, language and the rest of the incredible culture. The spices and use of local fruits and flavors gave us a new reason to hurry down for dinner every night. Even the ice cream (run out of the kitchen of another friendly local) was a new take on everyones favorite with flavors like soursop (we may have stopped there just about everyday for that one).

As if the wonderful people, colorful culture, flavorful food and jungle adventures were not enough, the nightly rounds at the beach filled me with a difference sense of awe. The stars seen from the beach were the brightest I had ever seen and the tiny bioluminescent animals in the sand made it seem like there were stars all around us. And of course there is nothing like standing next to a 1000 lb leather back sea turtle as she works to create and protect new life.

Trinidad is often overlooked but should never be underestimated.