Cool, crisp air envelops us and my friend visiting from the U.S. shivers, expressing surprise that it gets this cold in T&T. Four of us were having an afternoon adventure in Paramin, and while we were waiting for our guide at the start of the Saut d’Eau trail, we began to explore. The clouds rolled down the mountainside enveloping us in mist. It was beautiful and obviously well known, as while we were there at least six car loads drove up, the passengers jumping out to relax on a tree log bench or under a shed in a clearing.
Home of the Blue Devils, world renowned seasoning and a popular Parang festival, there is so much to experience in Paramin. Nestled high in the hills between Maraval and Diego Martin, the numerous panoramic views and patterns created by the picturesque crops growing on this hillside enchanted us as we journeyed through the serene village.
Normally I drive through Paramin with friends, going to spots I already know, but on this trip, I wanted to gain more knowledge about this scenic village. Steffano Marcano, born and raised in the area and one of the more well-known Blue Devils, was up to the task to take us to a few new spots. He was very friendly, easy going yet bubbly and he led us to Socolo’s Peak, a property that is perched on its own on an expanse of land, surrounded by mountainous views. At the property, which accommodates many types of events, he spoke passionately about his village, giving us an informative talk about the culture of the Blue Devils. The next stop was to Mario’s cave and getting out the car, we were stunned by the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. Crops were planted on adjoining hillsides which folded together to meet at the bottom. Farmers were busy at work, planting crops on the steep terrain, and far in the distance houses dotted the landscape and more mountains peeped through. It was absolutely breath taking. The breeze was chilled and almost trance inducing as it whipped past us. “You don’t need a fan up here,” one farmer commented. We ambled our way on a dirt path along the hillside till the mouth of the cave came into view. Walking through the small opening, the cave opened up into a large cavern. A couple bats flew about, accompanying us as we spent some time exploring. To me this spot was magical. As we made our way back to the car we all remarked how peaceful we felt. Saying goodbye and thanking Steffano, we started the journey down the steep hills to head home. “Paramin was very beautiful, it was peaceful.” Priya said. “I really got a sense of community and unity. Driving around with Steffano and seeing people hailing him out, reminded me of growing up in Diamond Vale 20 - 30 years ago. We had that kind of community spirit and I think that is lacking from a lot of areas now. It was nice to see that it is still so present in Paramin.” After pausing to maneuver around a sharp bend, the conversation turned to fashion as Priya commented on how happy she was about the length of the blue denim jumpsuit she was wearing, as the correct length for her height was one of the things she looked for when shopping for clothes.
P: If I ever find a long dress I will buy it in a heartbeat because at 5 10’, finding pieces that are the length that I want is not easy. I don’t have many pants either for that very reason, so if I find something that’s long enough then I don’t think twice about getting it.
A: How would you describe your overall style?
P: I don’t think I have one particular look but I would say my overall style is comfortable yet fashionable. I think I can dress for any occasion. I can be very casual or I could spruce it up and give you something totally different. I like that I can do that.
A: What is one fashion must for you?
P: Long, flowy dresses. I have to have a long dress. I think you could, for example, tie to the side so it looks a little shorter, you could put a belt with it, you could dress it up with accessories but I can never go wrong with a long, flowy dress. Super comfortable and easy to throw on, you could wear it to the beach, you could wear it out to a birthday lime, you could wear it to dinner.
A: What is a piece that every woman should have in her closet?
P: I think every woman should have a long, loose romper. You could wear that with sandals, wedges, throw a belt on it and fix up your hair. You could have so many different looks with it and I think it’s the easiest thing to throw on and be ready in 15 mins. I think they wear well on any shape or height.
A: Do you have a local or regional favorite designer?
P: I don’t have one but I can say now that through social media, I’m definitely getting to know more of the Caribbean designers. Social media has definitely opened up the market for a wider range of people to see what the local and regional designers have to offer.
To find out more about Tours in Paramin, contact Steffano Orlando Marcano | 1-868-489-6647
Article and photographs by Ariann Mieka Photography. Follow her on IG @mynorthsea
Shop This Look Here:
