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Published: March 13th 2007
Varadero
Despite the fact that Varadero is filled with tourists, the beach and ocean are magical...especially after spending several months with my tuque and long pants! Cuba March 13 to April 12, 2007
Cuba is a fascinating country and travelling one month on this island has been a tremendous experience. We were glad to have made the decision to travel to Cuba while Castro was still alive...
Because of the high travelling costs and the challenge to use public transportation, we decided to restrict our exploration to the Western area of the island. Our one-month itinerary was as follow: La Havana-Varadero-Trinidad-Piñar del Rio-Maria La Gorda-Veñales-La Havana.
I will first start my Cuba story telling with Varadero and tell about La Havana in my last blog.
VARADERO
Since we never experienced a full-inclusive resort, we decided to spend four days at "Villa La Tortuga", a medium-range hotel offering all-you-can-eat breakfast,lunch and dinner in addition to 24 hour open bar...not a profitable business when backpackers drop by! I have to admit that despite the very touristic area, it was pleasant to have available food and drinks, and a clean air-conditioned room for three days! In addition, the white-sand long beaches and transparent water were a pure delight after spending weeks in the Andes with my tuque! It was therefore a real threat to
Varadero
Our first (and probably last!) experience in a all included resort! All you can eat buffet and open bar all day long...dangerous for students! read books on the beach and drink the delicious Cuban mojitos! Another interesting aspect of our stay in Varadero was the invasion of Quebecers at this particular resort! I never suspected that I would feel almost home on the island of Cuba!
TRINIDAD
Trinidad was a pleasant colonial town known to be one of the Unesco Cultural Heritage sites. However, the constant harrassing by the locals and the relative charm of the city left me a little disapointed due to all the publicity for this suppossedly amazing colonial city...But we managed to find a great casa where we were hosted by two wonderful Cubans with whom we discuss politics...I have to admit that these conversations with the local people have been the most insightful source of information regarding the affairs of this country. In addition, we went to several salsa nights where we could listen to the magical Cuban music and watch the Cubans dancing with their amazing rythm! They are definitely the kings of salsa!
MARIA LA GORDA
The week spent at the most isolated beach of Cuba was a real vacation! This magical beach away from every touristic attraction provided us with the perfect
Trinidad
One of the many stands filling the streets of Trinidad aiming at the crowds of tourists... spot to relax...while Jason was diving, I was snorkeling all day to discover the amazing life in the ocean! It was like swimming in an aquarium! After reading on the white sand beach under a palm tree, we went for dinner at the resort restaurant where we admired the sunset over the ocean while eating some fresh fish on the grill...I know...it was hard life! Our little wooden cabaña was comfortable and away from the "beach traffic"...we could hear the frogs at night...We also met an amazing English couple who generously offered us drinks and wine and with whom we shared very pleasant evenings. In summary, Maria La Gorda has been a highlight of my Cuban trip as it both offered wonders of Mother Nature and relaxing time.
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EMPIRE
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Lyth - i thought you looked like you'd got a little taller, but then i realised i had expanded the size of the picture :) Muhaha looks like you are living the life mate!