After the party, it’s the after-party

So carnival is over, your feet hurt, your skin is a darker shade and peeling, bank account is empty but where/when is the next party? That’s right, as the Carnival season ends, ‘Trinis’ look forward to Easter weekend…well after Lent is over anyway. Who say Tobago, boat cruises and steady clubbing? Making the transition from Carnival fetes to clubbing is not always an easy one but we somehow find a way to pull it off.
Already flyers and invitations have been distributed advertising parties for April month and clubs have been busily making plans for their return events. From Club Zen to 51 Degrees soon enough their ‘loyals’ will be returning ready to ‘turn up the heat’ and party like there’s no tomorrow. But what keeps these persons coming back even after Carnival and we all know how much persons had to spend for their costume. Let’s not even mention the prices of the All-Inclusive Parties or the outfits that were worn to attend these parties, but somehow, just somehow, ‘Trinis’ do it. Soon the lines will be long and winding outside the most popular clubs and girls will be dressed in their four-inch heels flanked by guys in their square tips, no more sneakers guys, pack it up.
Pool parties or Poolside parties are back in abundance and though these are more seen around the July-August holidays, some promoters start the water parties early. If not pool parties, some events are held poolside and here the word ‘Elegantly Casual’ gets tossed around. Events such as ‘The Gentleman’s Ball’ and ‘The Showtime Affair’ are annual soirees that are definite must-attend. Pier One is also a hit when hosting pool side parties and the name alone attracts a fair number of persons. Tobago is also an island for parties at least for ‘Trinis’; a lot of us visit the island for the Easter weekend whether for camping, parties or the annual Great Race. Talk about pace!
Boat cruises have been getting a lot of attention over the last couple of months with the Treasure Queen maintaining an almost weekly schedule. So busy is it that promoters often have to book the boat at least four months in advance, maybe even further back depending on the time of year and the sailing time. But, because of the turnout it attracts, any promoter will tell you it’s a battle worth fighting. A boat cruise incorporates music, with vibes, sexy girls and equally sexy guys. Plus, with complementary Johnnie Walker Black and Baileys available for tasting before boarding, you might as well get intoxicated before boarding. Apart from the sea breeze or the smell of the ocean you often need to remind yourself that you’re actually on a boat. (It may also depend on your level of sobriety- drunk or not so drunk is the question)
Let’s not forget though, that there are certain clubs who actually cater for those who really spent all their money during festival time, but still want to have fun. We introduce Sabor Latino or ‘Attic’ as the true patrons refer to it as. Really who calls it Sabor Latino? Not even the residents of Maraval. Given the moniker because it resembles the shape and size of an attic found in homes, Attic offers a lax dress code and with approximately $60 for entry fee, you are guaranteed a great time here. Clubs like these and other low budget hang out spots are frequented after Carnival. Why pay $20.00 for a beer when it’s only $15.00 at a bar and especially after Carnival. No sir, try the avenue for a change where there is music and the comical passersby who humour you with their actions. (Who say Saucy Pow?) Another hang-out spot is in St. James. ‘The city that never sleeps’ is truly this area’s slogan and even before Carnival ends, on Carnival Tuesday, band members chip through the streets for their version of ‘Last Lap’.
Who says you need the transition from Carnival to Clubbing is hard?