Travel Tips

I'll just write what comes to mind in this travelogue. Was in Cuba for almost two months last year this time, my first time in the Caribbean. It was different from anything I'd seen before, though I've traveled a bit.

I'm stuck with such mixed feelings about Cuba. In general, when I think about it, I remember the people I got to know or even just encountered briefly. Most were eager to talk, I remember that well. I may not be able or willing to say what struck me most, in the right order.

My memories are always of the people I met there. I had read and still read pages here about Cuba and how beautiful and fun it is... I didn't see it that way. I think I stayed long enough not to just be a tourist and to see it as it is. Within my limits of course.

Ok then, 1-2-3: (1) the warm weather, the sunshine, it's fantastic to go out in a strapless dress anytime day or night and feel good. (2) the people, everywhere. They are genuine and wonderful, talkative and eager to make friends with you. (3) the music, the rhythm, the pace of things, swinging but relaxed. Time doesn't matter after a while.
These are the good things about Cuba that will haunt you.

The pic is of a poceta on the Malecon in Havana. Young guys showing off to you, without ever looking your way of course! They ignore the world around them and jump and scream! I can't forget them!

This square is one of the oldest in Havana. I went there to hear a concert at the Basilica de San Francisco, and I liked the serenity of it so much that I made my way back practically every day.

There are a few terraces with live music, not too loud so you can think. You can have a sandwich and a beer under a parasol and look at the children playing spinning-top in the middle of the large square. A few groups of tourists wander by but they didn't linger much when I was there. A quiet place, on the port.

Very good concerts here. At the entrance were four huge bells.
The sun was so bright every day that most of my pictures came out too light. I only learned later (thank you Richie!) that High Noon is not the best time to take photos... well, it's not easy to get there before you even wake up!