ToolsOne for Trinidad, another for TobagoOn Saturday March 9, I attended the Washington Travel and Adventure Expo in Washington DC. Like the millions of visitors to the exhibition, I visited many booths and finally came upon the booth marked "Trinidad". A map of Trinidad was present on the wall, and literature about the Caribbean was on the table. I was so disappointed with the display that I did not ask any questions about my country of birth. Unlike the other booths, no aspect of our culture was highlighted. There were three persons in this booth and not one ventured to offer any more information than the booklets they were distributing. As I made my way around the crowded convention centre, about two aisles away from the Trinidad booth, I saw a booth marked "Tobago". Forgive me, but I couldn't help myself. So, I asked the gentleman who was distributing reading material about Tobago: "Isn't Tobago a part of Trinidad and Tobago?'' He looked at me and smiled, saying: "You is a Trini!'' Of course he recognised my accent. So, I proceeded to ask: "Why are there two booths for the twin-island republic we call Trinidad and Tobago?'' This was his response: "This booth was set up by the THA. We booked space at the exhibition a long time ago. Trinidad got its act together much later. That's why we have two booths.'' My reply was: what a mess we're making of these lovely isles! Elizabeth ChewLin via e-mail |
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