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Published: February 25th 2015
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Hola Everyone!
Our final tour days took us to the town of San Diego where we stayed at the lush mountain resort of Soroa known as the rainbow of Cuba. The resort was built back in the 50's and much of the decor and facilities represented that era. This is where Americans came for holidays before the revolution. The area of Soroa is a rainforest and there has been a lot of re-forestation since the days when much of the land was cleared for sugar cane and coffee plantations. Much of the area reminded us of Costa Rica. We hiked up a steep 2km climb to the top of a mountain with a stunning view. It was quite a work out!!
Next door was a lovely orchid garden with about 70 different varieties of orchids both native to Cuba and from all different countries of the world. It was an orchid lovers paradise! We were given a tour and were amazed at all the different types of orchids.
On the way back we stopped at Les Terrazas which is a unique community of 1200 people where bascially no one ever leaves and the only ones to join are
when they marry outside of the community. It's built on mountain terraces and is very eco friendly sustaining itself with locally produced goods. There are many artists and musicians from the area. One of the most interesting crafts we came upon was a family who makes essential oils and perfumes from plants in the surrounding area. The aromas were so nice and we purchased a bottle of Tobacco cologne for Warren and some Jasmine perfume for me. It was very inexpensive but seems of high quality.
We had a great experience one morning on the bus. We happened to come on a group of school children with their teacher having a little playtime. Our tour leader Andy said this would a great opportunity to give any little gifts we may have brought. So we handed out candies and pencils. The kids were so excited and grateful as was their teacher!
An interesting place we stopped at back in Havana was the square of Independence which consists of a huge open area and a very tall tower that signifies Cuba's rebellion and their freedom from the United States. It was here they gathered in massess to begin their action
towards independence. Interestingly enough, this is where the US/Cuba talks were taking place.
We spent our last evening in Havana enjoying drinks, dinner and music with our new friend Natalie who was on the tour. As well, we met up with a few local friends who lived next door to the casa we were stying at the previous week. They have just opened up a lovely 2 room casa and are busy decorating and advertising. They are hoping to have a web site soon and we would highly recommend it.
Our flight leaves for Cancun tomorrow where we will begin our Mexican holiday in Isla Mujeres. Adios for now!!
Mallory and Warren
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