Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant culinary traditions have taken center stage in a recent feature by CruiseCritic, highlighting how the twin-island nation’s history and cultural diversity are best savored through its food. Authored by Rafael Peña, the article titled “From West African Stews to Latin Spices, Antigua’s Flavors Run Deeper Than the Waters” positions the Caribbean destination as a place where cuisine narrates tales of heritage, resilience, and cultural fusion. The piece delves into the island’s culinary evolution, tracing its roots to colonial influences, including Spanish introductions of garlic, onions, and rice, alongside Mesoamerican staples like beans and tomatoes. These elements, combined with African traditions and local produce, have created a layered and distinctive gastronomic identity. Peña emphasizes that Antigua’s story is not told through generic cruise offerings but through bold flavors of pepper, smoke, and citrus, echoing centuries-old kitchens. The feature spotlights local establishments such as Papa Zouk in St. John’s, celebrated for its fresh fish and extensive rum collection, and OJ’s Beach Bar & Restaurant in Johnson’s Point, known for its buttery lobster and freshly caught snapper. Island Fusion also earns praise for blending Latin influences with Caribbean classics like jerk and conch fritters. By showcasing Antigua’s authentic culinary scene, the article underscores the island’s ability to stand out in the competitive cruise market, offering travelers a taste of living history. With its rich flavors gaining international recognition, Antigua and Barbuda is emerging not just as a tropical paradise but as a must-visit food destination that reflects the depth of its cultural heritage.
分类: entertainment
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Write-Tukubuli showcase: J.R.R Casimir’s kin reads from penned biography of Dominican luminary
The inaugural Write-Tukubuli Virtual Literary Festival, held from September 15 to September 20, featured a compelling Authors Showcase spotlighting Kathy Casimir MacLean, a Dominican-born writer based in the UK. During the event, MacLean shared a poignant excerpt from her memoir, “Black Man Listen,” which delves into the life and legacy of her grandfather, J.R. Ralph Casimir. The memoir serves as a tribute to a man whose contributions to Dominica’s cultural and literary history had been largely overlooked.
In a November 2022 interview with Dominica News Online, MacLean revealed her inspiration for the book, stating, “I wanted to write ‘Black Man Listen’ to honor my grandfather and to tell his story, as it has been absent from our island’s historical narrative.” J.R. Ralph Casimir, a native of St. Joseph village, was a multifaceted figure—poet, editor, journalist, and bookseller. He is celebrated for publishing Dominica’s earliest poetry anthologies and for his pioneering Pan-Africanist ideals. Casimir was also a founding member of Marcus Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association, further cementing his influence on global Black empowerment movements.
Beyond her grandfather’s biography, MacLean has contributed to the anthology “Montage Dominik,” showcasing her versatility as a writer. Her participation in the Write-Tukubuli Festival not only highlights her literary talent but also underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating Caribbean heritage through storytelling.
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Discover Dominica CEO projects nine-fold return on World Creole Music Fest 2025
The 25th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), set to take place from October 24 to 26 at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Dominica, represents a substantial financial commitment of over $13 million. Marva Williams, CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), emphasized the festival’s economic significance during an interview on the Crele HeartBeat Program with Ambassador Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles. Williams highlighted that the investment is not only substantial but also highly rewarding, with each dollar spent expected to generate a ninefold return.
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A beast of a car show
On Sunday, August 31, Hope Botanical Gardens in Jamaica became the epicenter of automotive enthusiasm as Velocity Jamaica hosted its much-anticipated event, Beasts & BBQ. This free car show brought together car enthusiasts, families, and food lovers for an afternoon of high-octane entertainment and community bonding. The event featured an impressive array of vehicles, ranging from modified classics to high-performance machines, all showcased against the lush backdrop of the gardens. Attendees were treated to a dynamic display of automotive artistry, with cars constantly rotating in and out of the venue, creating a visual spectacle that kept the crowd engaged throughout the day. The event’s unique setting, combined with its creative execution, set it apart from traditional car meets, earning widespread acclaim from participants and spectators alike. Raheem Hall, director of Velocity Jamaica, expressed his pride in the team’s efforts, emphasizing their dedication to delivering unparalleled entertainment. Co-directors Daniel Fraser and Justin Campbell highlighted the event’s success in fostering a sense of community among car enthusiasts while offering a platform for creativity and shared passion. The overwhelming positive feedback has already sparked anticipation for future events, solidifying Velocity Jamaica’s reputation as a leader in the automotive entertainment scene. Sponsors such as VM, Porsche, Red Bull, and All Power played a crucial role in bringing the vision to life, earning gratitude from the organizers and attendees. Beasts & BBQ not only celebrated Jamaica’s vibrant car culture but also demonstrated the power of community-driven events to inspire and unite.
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Dancehall’s newest sex symbol?
D’Yani, the Jamaican dancehall sensation, is rapidly ascending to global stardom, captivating audiences both locally and internationally. His magnetic stage presence and sensual performances have earned him a reputation as a heartthrob, particularly among his female fan base. However, a recent incident during his London tour highlighted the challenges that come with such adoration. While performing, D’Yani was momentarily stunned when a pair of panties was thrown onto the stage, narrowly missing his face. The incident, captured on video and widely shared on social media, briefly interrupted his set but was met with humor and grace by the artist. Addressing the crowd, D’Yani playfully urged his fans to refrain from throwing items, emphasizing the need for mutual respect. In an interview with the Jamaica Observer, D’Yani reflected on his growing status as a sex symbol in the dancehall scene. While acknowledging the label, he expressed a preference for being remembered as an artist who connects with his audience through style, elegance, and authenticity. He emphasized that his music, though sometimes sexually charged, aims to celebrate love and sensuality in a sophisticated and uplifting manner. D’Yani also shared his thoughts on the balance between being a heartthrob and maintaining respect. He admitted that while he appreciates the love and admiration from his fans, he is still navigating the complexities of his newfound fame. D’Yani’s intentional approach to his image, often seen in tailored suits, reflects his commitment to presenting himself as a gentleman in music. He believes that his appearance is a way of showing respect for his art and his fans. Looking ahead, D’Yani expressed gratitude for his successful 2025 and shared ambitious plans for 2026, including expanding his musical catalogue and connecting with new audiences. He remains focused on delivering music that resonates with his fans while staying true to his mission of spreading love and positivity.
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DDA announces plans to host a series of press conferences leading up to WCMF
The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) has announced a series of media briefings to mark the countdown to the 25th World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), set to take place from October 24 to 26, 2025. The briefings, which begin on Thursday, September 18, 2025, will feature key stakeholders including festival sponsors, event organizers, performers, and DDA officials. These sessions aim to provide updates on the festival’s preparations, showcase collaborative efforts, and promote fringe activities designed to heighten excitement for the event. Scheduled at 10:00 AM on various dates leading up to the festival, the briefings will be accessible live via the Dominica Festivals Facebook page and partner media outlets. Celebrating its silver jubilee, the WCMF is Dominica’s flagship cultural event, drawing tourists, boosting the local economy, and elevating the island’s global standing. The festival highlights a diverse array of local and international artists, serving as a vibrant platform for Creole music and heritage while solidifying Dominica’s reputation as a premier Caribbean events destination. The DDA encourages the public and diaspora to stay engaged through these updates as the festival weekend approaches.
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Gassie Ink collaborates with Little Kirk, Robertha, Ras Oneily, and Pehtrol for God Bless The Children
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Renowned singer and producer Gassie Ink has unveiled his latest musical masterpiece, ‘God Bless the Children,’ a heartfelt collaboration with artists Little Kirk, Robertha, Ras Oneily, and Pehtrol. Released on July 24 under Gassie Ink Records, the track is a nostalgic ode to the singer’s childhood and the communal spirit of yesteryears.
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Saint Kitts and Nevis to gather in praise ahead of Independence Day
As Saint Kitts and Nevis prepares to mark its 42nd Anniversary of Independence on September 19, 2025, the nation is set to come together in a spirit of gratitude and celebration. The National Service of Gratitude and Gospel Concert, scheduled for Sunday, September 14, 2025, will serve as a heartfelt expression of thanks for the blessings bestowed upon the twin-island Federation. The event will take place at 4 p.m. at the Zion Moravian Church on Victoria Road in Basseterre, offering an intimate setting for attendees to connect spiritually and communally. Pastor Clive Saunders, a sub-committee member of the Independence 42 Planning Committee, emphasized the significance of the occasion, stating, ‘It’s a time for us to reflect on the goodness of God. We are coming to sing, clap, shout, dance, and celebrate how far God has brought us as a nation.’ To accommodate the expected turnout, tents, chairs, and big screen televisions will be set up around the church grounds, ensuring that those outside the sanctuary remain fully engaged. Following the service, a vibrant gospel concert will commence, featuring some of the best praise and worship teams from across Saint Kitts and Nevis, alongside special performances by Minister Blessed Ogbum and the Shekinah Dance Ministry. Pastor Saunders encouraged the public to attend with their families, highlighting the event as an opportunity for collective worship and celebration. This year’s Independence theme, ‘Perpetual Progress – A Sustainable Future in View: Independence 42,’ underscores the nation’s commitment to ongoing development and resilience.
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Nevis Welcomes OCTET Productions as Island’s Film Sector Expands
Nevis is making significant strides in establishing itself as a premier destination for the film industry, with the recent completion of an international romance feature film produced by OCTET Productions. The project, which wrapped up filming on the island, highlights Nevis’ scenic beauty and growing local talent pool. Premier Mark Brantley, the Minister of Tourism, emphasized the island’s commitment to fostering a thriving film sector during a press conference. He expressed pride in the active participation of local actors and crew members, who have contributed to the authentic portrayal of Nevisian culture. The film, titled ‘St. Kissed,’ showcases iconic locations such as Chrishi Beach, the Four Seasons Resort, and the historic Hamilton Estate ruins. Premier Brantley thanked OCTET Productions’ co-founders, Chuck and Bree West, for choosing Nevis and expressed optimism about future collaborations. The Wests, based in Washington, DC, praised the island’s welcoming community and stunning landscapes, which played a key role in their decision to film there. This initiative is part of Nevis’ broader strategy to diversify its economy and position itself as a hub for creative industries, building on previous successes with international productions like MSR Media’s nine films and appearances in ‘The Real Housewives of Potomac.’
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A window into Fidel’s soul
The exhibition ‘All the Glory of the World,’ curated by Alex Castro Soto del Valle, offers an intimate and multifaceted portrayal of Fidel Castro, the Commander-in-Chief of Cuba. Opening at the José Martí Memorial on August 12, 2025, the exhibition features 50 snapshots that capture Castro in various settings—from private moments at home to public engagements, and from casual conversations to intense discussions. The images, taken by his son Alex, aim to humanize and complexify the iconic leader, presenting him through a lens that is both personal and profound.
