A visit to the Queen's Park Savannah


Hi Folks,

My last set of post has been about sites to visits and a bit deeper historical and cultural aspect, so I will keep this one a bit simple.  Have you ever been to the largest round about in the world; yes, that’s right, it’s in Trinidad.  The Queen’s Park Savannah, called the Savannah buy locals is located in the capital Port of Spain, its perimeter is 2 miles (3.5 km), lined with Samaan and Poui trees it is the largest open recreational area for outdoor activities in the capital.




 Poui Trees at the Queen's Park Savannah. Source: afar.com


The Savannah is the center stage for Carnival but outside of Carnival one can find joggers and health fanatics, sports (cricket and football is a must), family picnics, couples on romantic walks and at the top of the list good Trini food.  Vendors are found all around the Savannah; one can find from doubles, roti, coconut, corn soup, burgers just about every Trini street food.  Of course, there are other planned activities during the year such as kite flying competition, 5K health walks, concerts and the likes.

Around the Savannah there is the Hollows (once a reservoir), the Botanic garden, the Emperor Valley zoo, the National Museum, the National Academy for Performing Arts, heritage building from the early 20th century such as the Queen’s Royal College, Hayes Court (Anglican Bishop’s residence), Whitehall, Stollmeyer’s castle (Scottish Balmoral Castle).  There are also many fine dining restaurants as well as sports bars such as the TGI Fridays and most of the more popular hotels are located just off the exit along the Savannah.


The Savannah with NAPA and down town POS in background. Source: afar.com

So if you are stating in Port of Spain, then come by the Savannah and have a corn soup (be careful of the hot sauce), take a jog if you are health enthusiast, take in a breath of fresh air and beautiful weather (there is always beautiful weather in Trinidad) and observe all the happenings.   If you happen to be visiting when the Poui trees are flowering it is quite a sight; take off your shoes and walk on the grass bear feet and just let life pass you by, it will do wonders for your stress level (even if the Poui trees are not flowering) and it is much cheaper than a shrink…


Comments

  1. KikiApril 28, 2018 at 6:13 PM

    I went to Queen's Royal College, which is located at the Queen's Park Savannah. wonderful experience. Love the sno-cone, coconut water and the Poui trees. Of course I played my fair share of hockey in the QPS. And of course who can forget Independence Day Fireworks - August 31...can't be beat spectacular light show

    ReplyDelete
  2. NRApril 30, 2018 at 9:36 PM

    I feel our Poui trees are not as abundant as they once were. So sad. The sights of these trees on the mountainside were so spectacular.

    ReplyDelete
  3. UnknownMay 2, 2018 at 8:26 PM

    I've never been to the Savannah to see the fireworks but it's definitely something I have to do in the near future but my best memory is going for the food the chicken wings on the Savannah are to die for you know for sure once there's a long line the food tasting good lol

    ReplyDelete

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