From South Florida Caribbean News

Port-of-Spain, Trinidad – Destination Trinidad is the focus of a 14-page feature entitled, “The Song of Trinidad” in the August-September issue of National Geographic Traveler Magazine.

The article focuses on elements of Carnival, the destination’s “liming” culture, and ecological sites and attractions.

Authored by Eric Felten with photographs by Aaron Huey, the piece features nine full pages of spectacular photography of Carnival imagery like steelbands in action and “ole mas” characters as well as stunning images of Paria Beach and hummingbirds.

The National Geographic Traveler feature is a direct result of a Media Familiarisation Trip for North American Markets, hosted by the Tourism Development Company in February 2016.

Felten and Huey, along with nine other journalists and photographers from North American publications like Rolling Stone Magazine, Ebony Magazine and others, each came with a unique destination focus, ranging from music and culture, to steelpan and outdoor travel, Carnival, and Caribbean Lifestyle.

Their itinerary included attending Panorama Finals, participating in J’Ouvert, visiting mas camps and touring the island’s various sites and attractions.

The main objective of the trip was to increase consumer awareness of Carnival and the destination through editorial coverage in major US publications, and to showcase the diversity and creativity behind the events.

Mr Warren Solomon, TDC’s Acting CEO stressed the importance of media familiarisation trips to destination marketing. “Being able to attract reputable media outlets with extensive and targeted reach remains a priority of the TDC. Not only does this enable us to tell the Trinidad & Tobago story to a far-reaching audience, but it also takes our engagement with that audience to new and exciting levels. As the country continues to grapple with declining income, the TDC, as the agency responsible for marketing and promoting Trinidad & Tobago, continues to find more cost-effective ways to ensure that the destination remains in the list of vacation options for international travellers,” he said.

National Geographic Traveler is the world’s most widely read travel magazine. Through powerful storytelling and photography, each issue inspires curious readers with stories that show the transformative power of travel. Go beyond the usual tourist fare for authentic experiences—many from a local’s point of view—with expert advice and tips for travel that is sustainable and smart.

To view the digital version of the article, please visit: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/destinations/caribbean/trinidad-and-tobago/steel-drum-music-trinidad/

IMAGE: Trinidad Carnival Blue Devils costume.

For more on this story go to: http://sflcn.com/trinidad-featured-national-geographic-traveler-magazine/