Getting a cut at DARIUS’ HAIRTALENT BARBERSHOP.
Touching down at the PIARCO, INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT in Trinidad was an exhilarating feeling. Mid- November in Trinidad is like mid-Summer in New York, (very hot and humid).
Located off of Queen St., and across the St. from the renowned restaurant CASTRO’S is, DARIUS’ BARBERSHOP. Nice and cool on the inside, and the pleasant atmosphere of the staff gives any visitor the feeling of appreciation.
If you are familiar with the city of Arima, then you will know the geographical location of the world’s famous, ‘DIAL’. Located in the heart of Arima. Surrounding the DIAL is three distinct businesses complimenting patrons with their needs. ROYAL CASTLE CHICKEN, HEARTHY FOODS, and PAY-LESS SHOE stores are respectively on each corner. Further down the street is the area known as, ‘THE DRAG MALL’.
Nestled away from all the busy-ness and noise, DARIUS’ HAIRTALENT is a community fixture as well as a landmark for quality hair-cuts. Well known and respected, established in 2005, this barbershop is like no other. As soon as you walk in, you are greeted with a cordial welcome. With Darius, Yarniek, Paul and Hayden tentatively attending to those in the chairs, they still have a moment to greet you. Right from the door you know, that you have come to the right place.
I had the humble opportunity to meet Darius at his barbershop. I spoke with him briefly about his establishment and what he means to the community. Open and candid about the love he has for his city, and the love that they had for him was apparent. As I sat on the sideline waiting for a line-up, I observed numerous patrons get their haircuts.
The buzz of the clippers, and the look of satisfaction on the faces of the freshly cut and shaved patrons reflected back on the standard of professionalism. This also reassured me that this would be a great experience and I would write about it one day.
Darius got a break from his busy craft and we were finally able to speak. We opened up with the establishment of the shop. He mentioned that it has been in the same location for over 7 years and is known all over the island. He said that they are known from: Sangre Grande to Port of Spain all the way over to San Fernando, Trinidad. For those familiar with the wide range of territory, it is impressive to have that much clientele!
Darius mentioned, that he started cutting hair over 20 years ago and he is a Registered Barber. The full name of the shop is, DARIUS HAIR TALENT. He also said that his shop is a family orientated business with much support from the surrounding community. Known by locals, Darius expressed that the community is a rough one; but a kind and loving one at the same time. A fact that I felt from day one. As we exchanged stories, Darius and I went across the street to CASTRO’S RESTAURANT and enjoyed some delicious food. The night was young, but as we sat and talked time began to slip away. Being that it was a long day for the Master Barber, we concluded our conversations and began to embark upon our travels to our next destinations. As described by Darius, he is a dedicated family man and it was time to go home to his family. Our lime was good! I felt that we had made a connection. I knew that I had established a friendship and found a great Barber in Arima, Trinidad. DARIUS HAIRTALENT, 41-41A SORZANO STREET, ARIMA TRINIDAD, WEST INDIES TELEPHONE# 1-868-757-0263
