Maraval

Maraval is one of the northern suburbs of Trinidad's capital, Port of Spain a valley in northern Trinidad in Trinidad and Tobago. It is situated at the bottom of the hills of Paramin and located east of the Diego Martin valley to which it is connected directly by Morne Coco Road, and west of Santa Cruz valley, to which it is connected by Saddle Road.

Maraval is considered one of the major high-income residential areas in the country, and, in combination with the Westmoorings/Goodwood Park/ Glencoe area, is the home of much of the island's elite. Some of the highest income enclaves within Maraval are Champs Elysees, Fairways, Andalucia, Haleland Park, La Seiva and Moka, with many properties in these neighbourhoods commanding prices in excess of $1 million dollars.

Similarly, many diplomats reside within this area, so there is a sizable ex-pat community in Maraval.

Maraval is sometimes referred to as 'Diego Martin East'. It is home to Trinity College secondary school and St. Andrew's Golf Course/Club, and the Trinidad Country Club, and arguably provides the best route of access from the capital to the North Coast.

Along with Santa Cruz, Maraval is located close to the best beaches on the island, allowing its residents quick access to downtown business and entertainment, stunning views of the mountains and easy access to the best beaches on the island.

Entertainment & Popular Culture

Maraval is also the home to many restaurants and take-out places, offering something to please just about any diner. There is an excellent range of higher-end Middle-Eastern food at "Joseph's" (specializes in Lebanese) and then the more everyday dine-in or take-out at Lawrence of Arabia in Shoppes of Maraval. Other cuisines to be found in the area include Chinese, Indian and Italian. It is also home to one of the branches of the locally owned "Rituals" coffee house, as well as the American Haagen-Dazs cafe. In Maraval there is also a Linda's Bakery as well as the fashionable brunch spot, Adam's Bagels, which also offers take-out fare.

For shoppers, the readily accessible Ellerslie Plaza provides almost anything one could need, including clothing, sporting goods, crafting supplies, restaurants, drugstore, shoes, gourmet ingredients, books and games for children. In addition, there are other smaller shopping areas along the central Saddle Road.

After dark, Maraval is buzzing with life. Even though it is a highly residential area, several dining and nightlife options along Saddle Road keep the area teeming with life well into the night.

Business & Banking

Maraval has branches of the major locally-operating banks, such as Scotiabank and well as RBTT, so residents do not have to go downtown to conduct business.

Fun Facts

As with many urban and suburban areas in Trinidad, Maraval is prone to flash floods during the rainy season. During this period, houses built along the main roads or close rivers and streams are in danger of being flooded.

The West Indian cricketer Learie Constantine included 'Maraval' in his full title when, in 1969, he became a Life Peer and member of the British House of Lords.

Coordinates: 10°42′N 61°31′W / 10.7°N 61.517°W / 10.7; -61.517