So I have to admit, this was my first Caribana...ever! and please excuse me for saying Caribana as opposed to Scotia Bank Caribbean Carnival as that is all I have ever known.
My friend asked me to play Mas this year. For those who don't know, thats where you dance for a Mas Camp in the actual parade and get the chance to dress up in these elaborate, beautiful costumes. We were part of the Louis Saldenah Mas Camp... What an AMAZING time!!
I spent a few days before picking up my costume, getting all the accessories... the anticipation for the big day. Once I got there, the rush was unbelievable! Thousands of people dressed up, great vibe. Although it was about 11am by the time we got started, I definitely needed a drink! I probably wasn't the only one. I wasn't use to being dressed up (or underdressed) in front of so many people, but once I got out there my insecurities just disappeared.
The music, the vibe, the people...the craziness when we were at the stage and that nice feeling when your dancing near the trucks playing soca music and your body just wines. Hard to explain your first Caribana mas experience without the words overwhelming and awesome.
Once it was all over and I got home... after 8 hours in the sun dancing (and 36C plus heat) I was tired, sore but ready to do it again next year. Definitely a 9/10 day (1 point off for forgetting to put sunscreen on part of my back and getting burnt...ouch!)
