I have to admit, “X” was a tough one. The only “X” words that came to mind were “x-ray” and “xylophone.” So I spent a bit of time on the internet looking through Scrabble guides for “X.” When I saw “xenophile,” I knew I had a winner. A xenophile is a person attracted to or has an interest in that which is foreign, foreign peoples, manners, language, and customs. At My Irie Time, we are undoubtedly xenophiles, particularly with respect to the Caribbean. Before each trip, we research the history of each country, the influences of other nations upon it, and the traditions and customs of each island, with respect to religion, politics, language, mannerisms, celebrations, food and drink.
It is this love for embracing other countries and their traditions which attracted us to the Mayoumba Folkloric Theatre, a group which performs on Thursday evenings at Anacaona Boutique Hotel on Meads Bay in Anguilla. The group shares stories of the island’s inhabitants along with many traditional folk songs. Prior to traveling to Anguilla, I had read a few books about the island’s history, so I was somewhat familiar with the background, but this group brought that history to life.
For more of our most recent trip to Anguilla and our stay at Anacaona, read our 2010 Trip Report here. For more reports from Anguilla, including our favorite beach bars, browse through our Anguilla reports.
For the whole series of “The Caribbean from A to Z,” click here!