Trinidad's Queen's Park Savannah

Image by caribbeanfreephoto via FlickrOne of my new year’s resolutions (like a lot of people) is to eat healthier, lose some weight and get fitter. I’m not planning on playing mas this year (as it will be my first Trinidad Carnival and I’m not that brave) but at the same time I, like many Port of Spain residents, have taken to going to the Savannah in the afternoons to get a little exercise.

For those of you who don’t know, the Queen’s Park Savannah is the largest public space in Trinidad (260 acres) and is without a doubt the most valuable parcel of real estate in the city. As public land it is 165 years old, making it the oldest recreation ground in the West Indies. It also happens to be the largest roundabout in the world. It is used as a recreation ground for countless people, having rugby, football and cricket pitches scattered around, not to mention those who just walk the perimeter (2.2km) to get fit.

At this time of year many people are trying to get in shape for Carnival and I am told that this is the busiest I will see it – apart from Carnival Monday and Tuesday of course when the Savannah becomes the stage for thousands of parading mas troupes.

Attached to the Savannah is a picnic area – the Hollows – a beautifully maintained, leafy green area that is a perfect spot to spend an idyllic afternoon. The zoo and botanical gardens are across the road and are also worth a visit.

For a short history and some old photos of the Savannah, you can also see the Westerly Magazine’s article.