Posts Tagged With: Barbados

Cricket… Not the insect.

Posted on August 5, 2014 by erikamae82

Cricket: a bat-and-ball game played between two teams of 11 players each on a field at the centre of which is a rectangular 22-yard long pitch. (Thank you internet definition)

The original game itself can last anywhere between a few hours to a few days. Yes folks, that’s not a typo. In fact, the record for longest game is 150 hours and 14 minuts. The shortened version that I attended on this day was called Twenty20. Each team is allowed only one inning that’s restricted to 20 overs (google it) and tends to run about three hours. I was warned by a dear friend to bring a pillow just in case I fell asleep. We’ll see.

Walking up to any stadium always sends a unique chill throughout my body. Maybe it’s the energy from the excited fans or the view over looking the massive field. Whatever it is, I feel it.

The Kingston oval was no different as we peaked over the stairs to our seats, a childlike “goosy” sensation ran over my body.

Sitting from my seat, I was able to capture a few good shots of the field and some random entertaining pictures.

Snack time? This guy was selling peanuts and grapes. Classic.

People often ask me if I ever see hairstyles around the world that inspire new ideas. Hmmm….

The marching band certainly made a show with instrumental versions of Soca music. Good stuff!

Cheerleaders? Of course! …and look who joined them.

The mini break (I would refer to it as the half time show) consisted of hip hop dancers tumbling around the field.

Hours later of learning of runs, overs, hits and such, it came down to the last 2 pitches. Barbados needed to score 6 points with 2 balls left. If you’re not familiar with the game, this would be like an American football game with an even score at the 10 yard line with 2 seconds left. A baseball game maybe bases loaded, last inning with 2 outs. You get the drift that the crowd was on their feet waiting for the pitch. Lucky for me (and every other fan) they hit it solid and won the game! Does cricket have a new fan? Possibly.

I feel like I need to come up with a different phrase other than “thank you” for Ryan. So many experiences that I would have never been a part of without his guidance and willingness to let a happy little backpacker tag along.

How do I ever repay him for this experience and new found sport?

Haircuts for the whole family!

I didn’t bring my proper tools this trip because I carried on my bags and protective TSA (enter sarcastic smile here) would have taken my shears. I wasn’t too concerned though, as we could just use what they had, right?

Spray bottle? Nah, we have a water hose. Perfect!

An average size combing device? Umm, nope. The pink comb would have better used to brush the mane of lion and the small black one was technically for the beard/mustache. “There’s no need to fear… Erika is here!” Only funny to those of you who watched American cartoons anytime from 1964-1990.

Here’s Ryan, he went first. A pointless funny side note: Neither one of us knew about the faces we were making.

Now his sister Melodie, her husband Kris and their precious baby boy Tiernan (who’s little noggin was the perfect fit to the mustache comb).

If this beautiful family looks familiar it’s probably because in years past they’ve been a part of my Barbados journey. Quick pic recap!

Last but far from least is their mother, Barbara. Not only was she brave enough to let me play with her hair, she was kind enough to welcome us into her guest studio apartment for the last week of our stay.

Wherelse better for a Bajan haircut than under a mango tree!

Categories: Uncategorized | Tags: Barbados, Cricket, haircuts, Kingston Oval, mango tree, Twenty20 match | Leave a comment

Handstand of 2013! The winner is…

Posted on January 28, 2014 by erikamae82

I absolutely loved watching the votes roll in, thank you! Plain and simple, here are the winners starting with the runners up and working to #1!

The honorable mentions start with an open green area in Cusco, Peru. This area made up just a small part of the exciting journey we spent exploring the streets and unique markets. To this day, it’s still one of my favorite cities in the world!

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most internationally recognizable structures in San Fransisco, California . Definitely handstand worthy!

After Machu Picchu hit the top of the polls for best photo of 2012, I thought it would be refreshing to introduce another wonder of the world. Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England was a classic set up for a proper handstand photo.

The sunset over looking The Thimble Islands was a surprise treat while visiting my longtime friends on the east coast of the United States. The colors were not touched up in this photo… All natural beauty!

The Cologne Cathedral is the largest gothic church in Germany which made it a bit of challenge to get me and the very tip of the building in the same shot. Well done Hayden!

Santa Catalina is a beach town on the west coast of Panama where I was volunteering as a staff member of Cabañas Time Out resort. What an office view!

Then there’s my precious family in good ol’ Oklahoma. These are my five siblings that are always eager to help out with the handstand shot. This year we chose to do it in front of our snow woman before she melted away.

In third place, we have the Mahogany Cathedral that welcomes you to the north coast of my favorite island. Barbados holds a special place in my heart and I highly suggest a visit if you’re ever in need of a well rounded beach holiday.

With a close second place, it’s not a surprise that the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia caught your attention. From the peaceful monks walking around to the thousands of stairs and doorways, this scene was easy to get lost in… both physically and emotionally.

With a solid win in first place, I share with you the colorful handstand photo from Chiang Mai, Thailand. These lights almost define this magical place and the vibrancy that naturally exists throughout the city. Well done Asia.

Categories: Polls, Travel talk, Uncategorized | Tags: Angkor Wat, Barbados, Chiang Mai, cologne, cusco, handstand, Oklahoma, San Francisco, Santa Catalina, thimble islands, winner | 1 Comment

The rest of Barbados is a coconut shell

Posted on August 20, 2013 by erikamae82

Time to wrap up the eventful visit to my favorite island of Barbados. You’ve seen the controlled chaos of the mud and paint party in Jouvert followed by the boat cruise of big kids pretending to be adults. Hopefully you giggled at the 5 “not so” well known facts and thoroughly enjoyed the energy of Kadooment!

Now it’s time to bring you the other side of my journey through the land of “The bearded ones”, which is the original name given do to the islands fig trees that have hanging roots resembling a beard. Since we’re already talking about fig trees, lets just jump into more scenery that you may find while driving, walking or exploring around.

This is on the path to Cherry tree hill for the gorgeous panoramic view overlooking the “Scotland District”. What used to be an orchard of Cherry trees, is now a street lined with towering mahogany trees, perfect for a handstand picture!

Once reaching the peak, you have a wide view of the north part of the island, better known as the parish of St.Andrew. Another handstand for sure, this time accompanied by Ryan and his inverted pose as well!

Let’s dive right into the beaches! None of the photos below have been edited to enhance the color of the water, sand or sky… It’s just that gorgeous! In fact, the first photo was taken from a car window while driving south on the west coast.

What a glorious convenience that my dear friend and host Ryan teaches stand up paddle boarding. I score every time it’s “take your buddy to work” day!

This is the end of his “sunset lesson”. If you’re headed to the island and desire some SUP (stand up paddle boarding) please contact me… I know a phenomenal instructor!

Houses, markets, street sights and more!

This girl (that’s me) loves to eat and it’s easy to do so around here! Between the Caribbean treats and the local flare, it’s hard to go hungry on this island of flavor. Please don’t hesitate to let the next set of photos make you drool, ok maybe just strike a bit of hunger.

This is one of my favorite dishes to get here and its not hard to find being one of the most popular quick bites on the island. Although the origin of the Roti is from India, it’s also well known in Trinidad and has made its way into other parts of the Caribbean. From various meat to shrimp or just good ol vegetables, the curry sauce and mango chutney won’t do you wrong. You can get it wrapped up or my personal favorite way, with the “insides” on a plate and the Roti wrap separate to be torn and dipped with your digits!

Fish cakes are another ideal Barbadian snack food that can be served in rustic rum shops as well as elegant cocktail parties. Deep fried with salt fish, flour, egg and spices it certainly makes for a greasy treat that leaves you either wanting more… or a gym.

Sushi on an island? Of course! This was privately ordered through a local woman who makes every dish directly from her home kitchen to yours. Due to the popularity and effort she puts forward, you have to order at least 24 hours in advance before you drive out and pick it up.

Since chain fast food restaurants are limited (thank you Barbados!) you’re more likely to find a street vendor offering fresh made food and side dishes. Here’s one of our favorites that’s conveniently located on the drive home, The Rock Net Grill. With juicy options and service with a friendly smile, you can’t go wrong with this late night treat!
Side note: Its an average of 2 Barbadian to 1 US dollar.

On the side of the road you can find home mixed juices ranging from Golden apple with ginger to the floral flavor of Sorrel. Considering this is where sugar cane is harvested and Rum is said to be created right here, “Rum punch” is the top seller of mixed drinks.

Fun fact: George Washington insisted on a barrel of Barbados rum at his 1789 inauguration!

Keeping a healthy choice in mind, this gorgeous place holds one of the number one purest forms of liquid next to clean water… coconut water! For a longer list of this amazing drink and its benefits, I found a great website to checkout at www.coconutwaterlife.com

My favorite fun fact of this magical beverage: During World War II, coconut water was injected into the veins of soldiers when medics were out of blood plasma because it has the same electrolyte balance, thus appropriately called “the fluid of life.”

Although they sell it in stores and off the street, I’m lucky enough to watch my friends gather their own right in the backyard! Bajan cherries and coconut water for a snack, yes please!

The hidden treasure below won’t be found in the “top 10 things” to do in Barbados…. But it should be! From jewelry to coffee, organic veggies to fresh meals, this place starts every Sunday off just the way it should be.

My favorite magnetic stall is ran by two angelic characters that greet you with smiles and an abundance of positive energy that I’m sure comes from their products! Serving up power oat smoothies, homemade herbal seasonings and my personal favorite, Kombucha tea (if you’ve never heard of it, please do your mind, body and spirit a favor and research it)!

To finish up strong, I’m going to bunch together a group of random photos that didn’t make a specific post. Please enjoy this bundle of quality people, great memories and more reasons I’ll be back to the unforgettable island of Barbados.

Care to see what it looks like when a I’m packing for my next journey aside a Bajan heading to Costa Rica?

Turns out Ryan and I were on the same flight to Miami! After that, he heads to Central America and I’m off to visit my dear friend outside of New York!

I seem to always have a lack of words to fully describe my gratitude towards the warm open arms and sincere friends that welcome me wherever I go. Once again, I feel like “thank you” would be an understatement to my family in Barbados. Till next time friends… peace, love and sandy sunsets…

Categories: Edibles!, Travel talk, Uncategorized | Tags: Barbados, beaches, cherry tree hill, coconut water, holders market, kombucha tea, Roti Den, rum punch, sushi | 2 Comments

Down de road – Kadooment 2013

Posted on August 16, 2013 by erikamae82

Drum roll please (my mom used to say that before big announcements) the post has finally come to expose another brilliant day of Kadooment!

Last year, I experienced my first Cropover here in Barbados and as usual I’ll give you the link to that adventure. To see details of the controlled chaos and more photos from the collage below, click here.

For this post, I’m going to teach a small lesson based off of my experiences to date.

First and foremost, it’s always more entertaining to get ready with a group. Everyone can use a little help from their friends! Meet Ethan, a kind hearted little man that was not only eager to apply my jewels, but did’t hesitate to dish out the compliments to me and his beautiful mother. “You are pretty girls… I come with you?” Its no surprise he’s such a gentle character coming from his parents Aldo and Jane, who are equally welcoming and full of warm energy.

Ready, set, oh shoots… we’re late! Lesson number two, here in Barbados, “time” is just a general suggestion of when one may or may not think about arriving. All this means for us, is that instead of starting at a snails pace like the others, we get a tiny workout by actually walking to catch up with everyone.

Side note: You’ll never be the only one running late. In fact, you have a better chance of being the only one there early!

Once the bands (a designated group in which you are representing) have gotten into order, we cross the big stage to officially kick off the 7 mile parade of dancing, chipping, whining and… are you ready for it? Wuk’n up!

Definitions:
Chipping – a dance step that is flat footed, knee bent and moving forward, almost as if to “chip” away the street.
Whining – a movement in which people attach themselves to one another by their ‘middle section’ and pulse, sway and thrust to the rhythm in every conceivable manner.
Wuk’n up – to gyrate the waistline upon another persons waistline, specifically to soca and/or calypso music.

A few photos from the crowds perspective followed by our view of the spectators, leads me to the next unspoken rule: just because you’re not in costume doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to get involved!

Unofficially official participants of Cropover.

You might be wondering, why is everyone holding those cups and where did we get the liquid to fill them? Reminding you of the brilliant Barbadian way of keeping the adults fully hydrated (enter questionable sarcastic tone) by having mobile bars that travel with the parade. Just walk along next to it and request your next drink. Looking down with a smile, they’re at your service!

All righty, the next portion of todays lesson requires an increased rating to PG-13 due to the dancing techniques and adult beverages now taking affect. Welcome to the world of open minded, bent knee, fun loving people “jus doin deir ting”!

Moving on to our next lesson, staying cool. If you care about your makeup looking perfect utill the end (you probably shouldn’t have come) anyhow, stay to the left! Although rain here during Cropover isn’t rare, it’s always guaranteed that you’ll have a refreshing source of water to drench you down during the walk.

Like some festivals I’ve experienced, there’s an over all vibe of “only doing it once, so go big” or “I’m never going to see any of these people again”! Not here. That alone is one of my favorite things of Kadooment, the loyal participants both local and traveling that return to share this unique holiday!

Lets have some fun and finish up this assignment with a few past and present shots of returning friends. So exiting to see you all again!

Remember Nisha? She’s the friendly girl I met last year who shares the health food passion in her shop here on the island. The first shot is us at her store last year followed by a photo from this Carnival.

Check this one out! Here are two of my favorite people Melodie and Kris, observing last year from the side lines, why not participating? Inside her tiny belly was little Tiernan from the next photo!

The first picture is me with sweet Jason at Soca Titans last year and the following photo is him with his beautiful new wife Beth!

Mikie my buddy with all smiles from last years boat cruise and this years Cropover!

It’s darling Jane!

The list goes on and on of precious people that surround this memorable event. Although its tempting to show you all 618 of my pictures (no exaggeration), I’ve got to pull it together and end this fun post. As you can imagine, plans for next year are already in order! I’ll leave you now with a collage of photos from my favorite local photographer Luke De Freitas!

Categories: Fashion from a backpack, Fitness, Travel talk, Uncategorized | Tags: bands, Barbados, Calypso, Carnival, Chipping, Costume, Cropover, Dancing, holiday, Kadooment, Parade, Soca | 3 Comments

5 “not so” well known facts of Barbados!

Posted on August 12, 2013 by erikamae82

You’d have to hear it for yourself to understand #1– The accent of the Barbadians! Yes, they speak English (so they say) but upon arriving and listening to locals socialize amongst themselves, you’ll quickly find out that there’s a separate language here.

– They put the emphasis on the second syllable. For example “Dis weekEND I goin to de marKET”.

– To really stress a specific thought, they repeat it three times.
“It be hot-hot-hot… or …sweet-sweet-sweet”.
“Boy yuh betta be quick-quick-quick”!

– Most words and/or sentences are cut short.
“I think she is cute” = “She cute”
“I don’t know about that” = “I ain kno bout dah”

-They use the word please in unusual places.
Me: “Do you have soda water here?”
Them: “Yes please”.
(What do you say to that? I just awkwardly smiled until they asked if I wanted one).

Me: “Are you guys still open for business.”
Them: “No please”.
Me: Confused

Fun phrases you may hear around the island:

-“Gol’ (gold) teet (teeth) doan suit hog mout (mouth)” = Fancy things don’t suit those that aren’t accustomed to them.
-“Ef greedy wait hot wud (would) cool” = Patience will be rewarded.
-“De higha de monkey climb, de more he show he tail” = The more you show off the more you show your faults.
-“Wuh ain’ see you, ain’ pass you” = Just because you got away with something so far does not mean that it won’t catch up with you later.

Not so well known fact #2 – You wouldn’t experience this by staying in a luxury hotel or massive bed and breakfast, but in your typical home, an iphone or rooster isn’t needed for an alarm clock. When the sun is just rising, you’d think there’s a team of monkeys practice gymnastics on the roof. Well there is! Directly above your bed, a family of monkeys are playing games and taking into no consideration that some of us sleep beyond 5am. I dare not complain though, as it wakes me with a giggle every morning.

Remember these guys from last year?

They’re still here!

Neat find #3– The Government had originally installed over 400 stand pipes where people could go to collect free water for their household. The stand pipe naturally became a busy common area of activity for social interaction – from gossip, to courtship, to political discussion, to confrontation. With the introduction of running water to virtually every Barbadian home, many of the stand pipes are no longer in use. However, there are still a few in operation to stop off for a drink while out and about.

Fun fashion fact #4 – You may know the fashion here in Barbados ranges from typical surf wear to high heels and suits. One thing extra that has been a common sight for my eyes, is no matter what the age or genre, they love to match! Shoes to purse, hat to pants, they’ve nailed it! I sat curbside during this street market and take a look at what I captured in just 30 minutes.

Little known fact #5 – During the period 1841-1845, Barbados was considered the healthiest place in the world to live. With having 1 death per 66 people, compared to world averages of approximately 1 death per 35 people. Curious why? I’m not.

Some photos above curtesy of my dear friends Ryan and Jason… Love you boys!

Categories: Travel talk, Uncategorized | Tags: accent, Bajan slang, Barbados, beaches, dress attire, language, Monkeys, stand pipe, stand up paddle boarding | 1 Comment

Big kids pretending to be adults

Posted on August 6, 2013 by erikamae82

This is my third time to the amazing island of Barbados which speaks volumes considering I rarely return to a destination unless there’s friends, family or a culture that speaks to me. Here, I feel like there’s all three!

To get warmed up for the week ahead (that you should be very excited about), I’m going to share the annual boat cruise on MC Buccaneer. This limited, invite only event (yes, I feel extremely special to be one of the attendees) is a gathering to take in the sun, enjoy some drinks, and move to Caribbean music.

Flash collage from last years cruise! To see the full post, click here.

This year brought just as much fun with the same incredible people and even more memories to pile into the book of Barbados. First things first, meet the bartenders and the entertaining DJ Puffy.

And we’re off! The music steps up and the games begin!

Ooh look, we have a birthday today! Sweet Aldo gets cup cakes and punch right out the fruit! Oh grown-ups pretending to be children… or should I say big kids pretending to be adults?

Wait 30 min after eating to swim? Nope. Remember the safety flotation devices from last year? They’re back, just for our protection.

Time to head back to the dock. Which really just means more dancing, more smiles and the overall energy kicking up a notch!

Another success my friends! Thank you Daniel, Sean and Dwayne.

Categories: Uncategorized | Tags: Barbados, blue water, Crop over, Cruise, Dancing, Friends, MC Buccaneer, Music | 3 Comments

An “Orbit Gum” commercial, Bajan style!

Posted on August 6, 2013 by erikamae82

I’ve been lucky enough be inducted into the local scene of Carnival here on my favorite (yes I said it, favorite) island in the world, Barbados. Crop Over festival is the most popular and colorful event hosted here and I’m honored to be a part of it! Its origins can be traced back to the 1780’s, a time when Barbados was the world’s largest producer of sugar. At the end of the sugar season, there was always a huge celebration to mark the culmination of another successful sugar cane harvest, hence the name “Crop Over”.

With several different options for excitement, it’s in ones best interest to pick the favorites and go big! One of events I most look forward to is Jouvert, pronounced joo-veh -meaning “day break”. This coincides with the emancipation from slavery in 1838 when people smeared themselves with mud or paint to avoid being recognized while partying down the street late while the wealthy were sleeping.

The collage below is a splash of last years shinanugins. Click here and enjoy the mud and paint post from 2012!

This year I’ve returned to visit my darling friends and of course partake in the high energy parade full of Calypso music, dancing, mud and paint! What a perfect combo for a welcoming party. Let the Foreday Morning Jam begin!

Step one – prep the shirt.

Step two – Eat a solid dinner that will last you for the next 12 hours. We went with local fish, steamed veggies, beans and rice, sweet potato, garden salad and plantains.

Step three – Get to the bus that shuttles you to the starting point and let the morning begin!

If you recognize this fun gentleman, that’s because Ryan was my host last year as well. We met years ago and have maintained a connection while being oceans apart.

This is what the crowd looks like as we all eagerly await the moving of the midnight launch.

1:15am – A typical Bajan late start with no worries and all smiles!
With the motion of the drink trucks (a mobile bar that travels with the parade so that all participating remain hydrated with adult beverages), the shuffling of 10,000 excited participants start what is the next hours of dancing covering 3.5 km (a little over 2 miles).

1:45 – Mud has been distributed ever so equally and gently amongst the… Yeh right! Mud and paint has started to fling, smear, fly and cover the crowd with the excitement gaining momentum. I could narrate the next set of photos, but I’ll just let them do all the talking!

All righty, I’m assuming by now that you’ve got the point. There’s mud, there’s paint, there’s people and a whole abundance of white teeth!

As the sun starts to rise, we round the final corner where we can find the shower (a water truck unloading gallons of water through a fountain). This is also accompanied by breakfast which is fish or chicken sliders and corn soup.

We sit, eat, rinse and head home for a bed time of 8:30am.

A quick shout out to an up and coming local photographer that clearly has a talent behind the camera. Here are a few energetic shots captured by Luke De Freitas. For more of his work, please check out his website at www.lukedefreitas.com

Categories: Uncategorized | Tags: Barbados, Calypso, Dance, drink trucks, foreday morning jam, J'ouvert, Mud, Paint, Parade | 1 Comment

Bajans in Frankfurt and Americans in Wiesbaden

Posted on October 16, 2012 by erikamae82

Who gets up before sunrise, takes a train to one of the largest international airports with fingers crossed in hopes that they can find a friend in passing just for a hug? Ooh, pick me pick me! (pretend my hand was eagerly raised like a hyper school girl).

This is the segway polo team that I met at the world cup in California, celebrated with them during crop over in Barbados and now get a 20 minute visit with them in the Frankfurt airport.
As I left the hostel, a fellow backpacker asks if I want her to come with me to help spot out the group. With a small giggle I explain how no “help” would be needed. Not because there was a dozen of them but due to their unforgettable accent and natural energy, I can feel them from afar!
Here we are in years past.

Sure enough, I could hear the sweet sounds of the Bajan tone as they approached the departure counter. A couple of quick pics and priceless hugs before they head back to the sunny island of Barbados.

This beautiful couple is always shining from the inside out. Great friends (and hair clients) from Folsom that have traveled the distance to participate in the Euro Segway cup with the Bajans. What an extra bonus to snag a hug from these warm smiles before they head back to the west coast of North America.

This was the start of my last day in Frankfurt… Perfect! Now for some city sights:

We lost points on our driving test in the States if our tire even swiped the curb… They post signs of encouragement here!

For the few who know and understand my love for Cherimoya, you can imagine the excitement I had to control when I spotted out these at a local health food store. It’s a fruit from South America that became a part of my regular diet when I was volunteering in Peru. Since then, I only dream of it in my best nights sleep. Not today, I get to indulge… Does that means it’s a “dream come true”?

Although this shop looked tempting, I was too busy with my cherimoya so here’s a couple pictures from the outside.

What’s this? A double surprise! I do believe my dear friend Tiffany is the only person on this earth who can fully appreciate the fact that I found Dinkles! Last year, she allowed me to,stop on every German health food store with high hopes in relocating these treats I had discovered the year prior. They’re made of spelt, with only a few ingredients and no additives. Oh happy days!

A jog around Frankfurt before my final stop in Weisbaden . Here’s what I caught when I actually remembered that I had a camera on me!

Love the love!

My jog led me to the botanical gardens which was the perfect cool down. I misuse through the rose garden to get to the cactus showing. Spent most of my time in the hibiscus room and enjoyed watching everyone near the water. If you come to Frankfurt, this is a great escape from the city.

On the way out I snagged a sample of this basil spread on a pumpkin seed cracker. They asked which jam I wanted to try so I picked then one that all the bees were in… It must be their favorite right?

My last weekend in Germany was spent in the city of Wiesbaden. I don’t have many pictures to show you because honestly I was too busy enjoying the peace of staying in a home with a couple that I absolutely adore. This is Brooke and Tim, an American duo finishing up their 3rd year stationed here.

Tim is a proud man serving his country with an abundance of energy and the ability to quote any comedic line from a film to make the room laugh. So refreshing! Brooke is one of those people on earth that quickly makes an impression much farther than the surface. She naturally exudes a calm warmth that extends throughout her household with an outlook on life that comes from hard work and self discipline. I felt comfortable with them last year and even more so this year.

Here is Brooke, Tiffany and I last October, followed by Brooke and I this trip.

First things up, I got to play babysitter! Funny how things are so exciting when they’re removed from your usual routine. I even got to cut the hair of this little guys mom as well, Thank you!

They took me to a Market Bizarre that was put on by the families from the Army base, definitely a different experience that I’ve ever had.

Tim, you crack me up. Brooke, you make my heart smile. I look forward to the next path crossing… Hoping it will be somewhere new!

Next stop is Malaysia! I’ll be staying with Kuldip, a backpacker I met in New Zealand. During our volunteering she invited me for a visit which of course I dare not pass up… See ya soon Kuldip!
Here we are last February on the South Island of New Zealand.

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: Barbados, city, Dinkles, garden, Germany, Malaysia, orchids, park, Segway | 1 Comment

Calories – Love to consume them… love to burn em!

Posted on August 12, 2012 by erikamae82

“Th Ackee Tree” – otherwise known as “The home of the one pound Roti”.

What’s a roti? Delicious. It starts with a thin wrap (skin) pressed together with dried chickpeas in almost hummus form. Then they fill it with your choice of meat, veggies and sauces. Today I got shark with chickpeas and pumpkin. Added some tamarind, pepper sauce and a hint of curry. It’s wrapped up in almost burrito form and served a la carte.

Can you see the two separate wraps with the dried hummus in the middle?

I decided to destroy it and eat it with my fingers by tearing the wrap and pinching the filling into each bite. As I was feeling a little silly (just a little), Ryan informed me that I was eating it the traditional way. The roti “burrito” is fairly modern and more for convenience.

Coconut jelly is the meat in a green young coconut (the white part before it turns hard). It can be so soft that it reminds you of gelatin. I dont think it’s like anything near what your typical coconut tastes like. This is mildly sweet and personally one of my new favorite flavors!

Catch of the day choices at an outdoor restaurant called “Just Grillin”. After you pick your fish or meat you can make it a sandwich, salad or plate and pick from a variety of sides. www.justgrillinbarbados.com .

This is Souse, the national dish of Barbados. Traditional a Saturday night food to serve with a pudding made from either sweet potato or blood. Back in the slavery days the owners of the land would butcher the pigs and keep all of the “good” meat and pass the left over “parts” to the workers. They would then pickle and season with peppers and spices, topping it off with onion or cucumber. When eating this authentic dish you may encounter an ear, hooves, a tail, or maybe even a shoulder.
The dark brown you can barely see to the top right is the pudding. The other side is green banana, a fruit that compliments the flavor of the souse.

These stands are the common “fast food” choices.

The menu

The grill master

Ryan got the barbecued chicken with fried plantains, chips and salad shown in the pictures. I ordered the grilled fish, chips and salad but ate it before it dawned on me to take a picture.

Time to burn off some of those calories!

For those of you who aren’t familiar with my past in gymnastics, I never did it as a child but started coaching at 14. Through training and teaching, I worked my way through the upper levels until reaching the head coach position of a completive team. I then finished up my journey in the gymnastics world as a judge and member of NAWGJ.

Although coaching is where my heart stays, it was so much fun to be on the other side as a student. I got to try new things in the hands of one of the best. No, seriously… This is Shane De Freitas. He is the only gymnasts to have ever represented Barbados in the 1996 Olympics!

His cheerful and laid back attitude combined with an extreme amount of knowledge made a perfect match for this class.

From left to right: Ryan, me, Shane, Michelle and Jodie.

Time to stretch-out and warm up.

A little floor with handstands, cartwheels, back walk overs and more.

Beam- I dedicate these two pics to all of my gymnasts from years past. Great memories girls!

Bars brought a lot of laughs. It seems pretty typical for little girls to “play” on a set, so childhood memories of recess came to mind. We started with some swings, then holds and the last photo is mid rotation of a back hip circle (which sounds cooler than it is) but I did it after all these years!

Although Ryan claims to not be a natural (and never had lessons), here he is with extreme height and great rotation in a back tuck. “I just like to jump off of things”.

Palma horse is a men’s event that we got to give a try. Attempting some of the most basic skills brought an entire new level of respect for the athletes that make it look so easy.

To say he was showing off would be like accusing a doctor of showing off by knowing the alphabet. This stuff was extremely elementary for him and really entertaining to watch.

I have no idea what this is called but it was fun! You grip two separate bars and proceed to elevate your body sideways to an inverted position. Yeh… Right. With Shane’s boost, I was able to get a feel for it, thanks pal!

Girls just wanna have fun! Our three attempts for a perfect rope picture. I wouldn’t say we failed, just had creative results. All great times ladies!

Final photo of the night with the whole crew. Just a bunch of big kids with big hearts and bigger smiles. A personal thanks to this group for the open arms (and monkey toes) to send me on my way… High-fives!

Categories: Edibles!, Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: Bajan, Barbados, Bars, Beam, Flip, Floor, food, Gymnastics, Pudding, Roti, Souse | 1 Comment

Cool Runnings and the M.C. Buccaneer

Posted on August 9, 2012 by erikamae82

Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises exceeded my expectations for what I had in mind of a “day cruise”. Not only were they voted 2nd Most Popular Attraction by the globally recognised Zagat Survey, they were titled ‘the Rolls-Royce of catamaran excursions’ in Barbados. When I went to check them out on tripadvisor.com, it was clear with the awards of excellence and top ratings that this company has been raising the bar for years. I’m fortunate enough to have personally met the minds behind this company (including my host Ryan who designed the logo) and let me assure you, this is more than a business… Its a family wanting to provide a quality experience for everyone involved!
Check out their website for amazing pics of the water, turtles, and other variety of cruises they offer at coolrunningsbarbados.com .

The crew prepping for our day of snorkeling, swimming with the turtles, eating, drinking and dancing!

This is Eddie our captain. He “has” to guide these sails all day with people having the time of their life to the background noise of reggae, calypso and dance hits. Do you feel for him or what?

He let me sneak up there and chat with him and one of the other crew members. I’m sure everyone gets to go up there, but I felt special.

Meet Raymond, remember Raymond and let me remind you Raymond in a far future post. This island guy is ready to travel and I happen to always have an open seat… Cheers till next time new friend!

First picture is obviouslty me and Ryan and the second photo is one of our views from the catamaran.

Check for turtles before you jump in… All clear? Go!

Lunch time! More traditional Bajan food: flying fish, veggies, rice, salad and Rum Punch. (They left out the macaroni pie, friend bread fruit and plantains).

What a memory to add to the list… Thank you Ryan, Anika, Eddie, Raymond and all the crew members.

ON THE WATER PART 2

The M.C.Buccaneer is a cruising ship that you can sign up for a day of food, drinks, fun and more fun. Thisdj urnsy was a private party that I was so very lucky to be a part of (much appreciation to Daniel, Sean Dwayne and Mikie). This annual celebration involves a group of friends kickstarting, to say the least, the Kadooment Day that awaits us. That post is coming soon and I feel you should prepare yourself.

Here is the boat looking empty and innocent.

As we were standing there getting ready to head out, I gazed down to see what looked like a swimming pool on the lower deck. Nope, that’s the ocean water that the was beneath us!

The crowd before departure. Take note of the fully clothed, calm adults having pleasant conversation.

It’s Mikie again! He had the responsibility of inflating all of the safety apparatus’s -aka- the floaty animals! (As you can find in the second picture in which I’m checking for any damaged or unsafe materials).