by Sue Kuti
Cuba did not disappoint us!
We loved its vibrancy! Everywhere was full of life – every corner presented music and dance. Salsa was everywhere.
Old Havana is a fascinating city with amazing architecture just waiting to be restored. There was evidence that this was on its way but the lack of finances and materials hinder the progress. The people speak openly of their hope for the future when the USA will lift the embargo.
The Cuban people are friendly and welcoming. Although poor, they seem happy. The harbour presents a wonderful backdrop for the city and many people can be seen walking the Malecon.
We spent four wonderful nights in Havana. We walked Old Havana absorbing its vibe. At night we found lots of bars and music.
We were treated to a tour of Modern Havana in vintage American cars. These cars are everywhere but although our were in pristine condition, it is not unusual to see a group of Cubans under a bonnet devising a way of repairing the car till the next breakdown. Cubans are ingenious at making do with what they have. Buses were made up of old and new – all put together and as long as it works that is fine!
We tried the local transport across the harbour in an old boat to see Casa Blanca and the fort with a large statue of Jesus – not quite Rio but still a great view!
We left Havana to drive to the Vinales Valley and Las Terrazas where we visited a tobacco farm. A green contrast to Havana. Another highlight was Trinidad de Cuba. Here salsa comes to life. We spent several nights at Casa de Musica where tourists and locals dance. I am sure we provided the entertainment for the locals as we attempted the steps that we were shown in our salsa lesson in Havana. Our last stop before returning to Havana was Veradero, a wonderful beach resort. We couldn’t resist the warm. clear turqoise waters and the all-inclusive provided us with unlimited drinks! We lost count of the Pina Coladas and cervezas! Everything was perfect food, drink and sea!
We returned to Havana for what we thought were our last two nights but the Swine Flu had caused panic and the Cuban government placed an embargo on flights to and from Mexico. Two of the group managed to get flights out but by the time the main group was due to leave there were no flights. We enjoyed an extra night in Havana and used this to visit the cigar factory and the Rum Museum. We sampled the rum there and then but bought the cigars to sample back in Sydney.
We finally got our plane out of Havana to Los Angeles via Panama. Our last two days were spent in Disneyland and Universal Studios – what a contrast to our last month of travels.
So we are all back safely in beautiful Sydney – no swine flu but a tour that we fully enjoyed and an experience we were glad to share. Thankyou to the wonderful group of travelers!
Sue.
Sue Kuti is the owner of Small Group Travel. She was recently the winner of the Travel Weekly Best Consultant South America 2009. Sue runs tours to Vietnam, China, Southern Africa, Japan and of course South America. If you are interested in any of Sue’s tours call me TODAY on 02 4328 4398 and I can get you a great price for your group!
Have you ever been around the Mexican Riviera or seen any of the amazing Mayan culture of Mexico? Or maybe you have been on one of Sue’s tours? Please let me know in the comments below.
