TRINIDAD & TOBAGO BRINGS A TOUCH OF THE TROPICAL TO THE RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

Trinidad and Tobago will feature in this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show (19 – 23 May) showcasing the island’s tropical flora with a garden entitled ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’.

The design is the embodiment of hope on two levels: as a literal display the garden depicts the horticultural opportunities for colour and beauty that are present even in times of dry weather; while also acting as a metaphor for recovery from these times of economic uncertainty.

The design flows from a variety of dried plant material, seeds and pods, into green foliage material, before bursting in to lush colour at the end of the ‘rainbow’ – as nature ultimately restores balance and harmony.

Joan Wilson, President of the Horticultural Society of Trinidad & Tobago, commented: “Global warming coupled with the current economic meltdown has presented the Horticultural Society of Trinidad & Tobago with adversities on an unprecedented scale.  Stressful as this may be we must seek the opportunities amidst these challenges and remain optimistic if we are to survive. 

“Even a dry, flowerless state has its own beauty. It can, and must, be utilised in order to flourish into the colour and hope that only a ‘rainbow’ can signify.”

Wilson’s 2008 “Garden of Hope” was awarded a prestigious Gold Award at last year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, and was the only exhibiting Caribbean destination to win the accolade. 

Experience the beautiful flora and fauna of Trinidad & Tobago first hand with MotMot Travel (01372 830 918 / www.motmottravel.com). Prices start from £845 per person for seven nights at The Kariwak Village Hotel in Tobago on a bed & breakfast basis. Return flights and transfers are included. MotMot Travel offers a full itinerary of tours and experiences designed to maximise any visit to Trinidad & Tobago.