The Garifuna influence is woven into the very fabric of Hamanasi. Hamanasi means “almond tree” in Garifuna, a tree that thrives by the sea. Even the name of the resort’s award-winning restaurant, Singanga, is a Garifuna word meaning “dragonfly” — a symbol of transformation, change and adaptability in harmony with nature. On property, many of Hamanasi’s team members are Garinagu, offering guests the chance to connect personally through conversation, food, and storytelling. In the Singanga restaurant, we offer many delicious Garifuna dishes. Each week during Friday’s happy hour, we host Garifuna drummers and dancers who share the history of their culture through art. A Garifuna Paranda singer serenades Sunday dinners. Much of the art displayed throughout the resort pays homage to the local culture and reflects the community’s deep connection to the sea and land.
Guests visiting Hamanasi Resort are invited to experience the vibrant indigenous Garifuna culture in authentic and meaningful ways in the community. Through tours such as the Garifuna Cooking Class and the Hopkins Village Bike Tour, guests can immerse themselves in the living traditions of this UNESCO-recognized culture. In the cooking class, guests join in making the time-honored recipe of hudut — a flavorful blend of coconut milk, fish, and mashed plantains. During the mashing and grating, they will learn about the cultural significance of this dish. On the bike tour, guests ride through our charming seaside village of Hopkins, meeting artisans, musicians, and community members who proudly share their stories and heritage.
As part of our celebration of the national holiday Garifuna Settlement Day, some of our staff participated in a fun photoshoot to showcase traditional women’s wear. Together, all these elements create a powerful sense of place, allowing guests to not only witness Garifuna culture, but to truly feel its spirit as part of their Hamanasi experience.
