The contradictions at every turn and the warmth of the people is what makes Cuba magical. The diversity keeps the surprises coming. There is much to ponder and even more to discover.
We were in Havana for a week last year, with a quick day trip to the beautiful beaches of Veradero. This time, 10 adventurous friends from our Useppa Florida island joined us as we travelled west to the incredible Vinales Valley. Tobacco plantations, farming cooperatives, schools, clinics, cave exploring and horseback riding. And that was just the first 48-hours.
The 5 days that followed in Havana and the surrounding area was fantastic. We can see many changes in the one short year since our last visit. Progress is wonderful for the people who live here, but selfishly, we can easily imagine the charm beginning to slip away as Cuba steps toward joining the rest of the world.
Another return visit? It's highly likely.