Understand that the most difficult task is deciding which island to attend Carnival. Trinidad and Tobago is well-known for its brilliant Carnival and festivities. But you might want to consider some of the smaller islands' Carnival celebrations. Not all Carnivals are celebrated during the pre-Lent time of the year. Some have moved to the summer months such as those in St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Jamaica and St John. Check with the islands' tourism website for the exact Carnival schedule. You will want to be there for the final three days when the action heats up to a boiling point. Carnival preparations actually begin months in advance, but the last three days are the culmination of those events. This is your opportunity to really see the culture of the Caribbean and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of its vast history.
Once you have decided on your destination and time of the year, book your trip and pack as you normally would for a Caribbean destination. Light, cotton clothing and swimming gear is easy and comfortable for the warm weather and sandy beaches. No special clothing or equipment is needed to enjoy Carnival.
Upon arrival at your destination, hit the streets and enjoy yourself. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the colorful costumes and people you will encounter. Due to the crowds, leave your expensive jewelry locked in the hotel safe, along with your passport, extra cash and credit cards. Just bring a little cash onto the streets to purchase your food and drinks and a few souvenirs. It is acceptable to join in with the street parades and party hearty. You don't need a costume, but you are welcome to wear one if wish. Carnival is a time of wild abandonment, where people feel free to express themselves in many different ways.
Know that the rhythmic music is the very heart and soul of Carnival, so be sure to attend one of the final music competitions. Typically you will find steel pan drum music called Panorama, as well as Soca, Zouk, Kaiso and Calypso.
End the festivities with a bang. Once the final Carnival parade goes well into the night, the following morning is reserved for the closing ceremonies, which on some islands ends with a burning of King Momo, a giant black figure designed to burn as a symbol of evil. There is a massive blow out with a large crowd, music and display of fireworks to celebrate the ending of the festivities. This is your signal to head to the resort pool or beach to relax and recover.
