A Well Deserved Rest & The Hustle To See It All

by Rodrigo Castillo (Canada)

A leap into the unknown Cuba

As we begin to plan a vacation all sorts of ideas and plans formulate because we want to make the most of our destination. We'll gather by the beach, listen to the waves as the sun sets while we ignite a Habano and send for more Mojitos. Being able to sleep in and eat at the cafe anytime, walk down the tropical pathways unveiling the horizon of azure, my this little slice of paradise has it all. Though that's not quite why we go on adventures, the resort supports an imitation of whats familiar as we crank the AC to make the humid air manageable. We arrive in this new land to engage in the unknown, to create memories and make friends that we may never see again. Experience a different way of life steeped in tradition and endlessly fascinating. Half the fun is getting lost and discovering what little bits of history have been waiting to see. Be prepared, be punctual, be polite. This help's when you arrive at different nation who won't hesitate to send you back for any incredulity. Cuban customs are strict and quick but if you're compliant you'll be greeted by the heavy, humid air and struck by the sun on your way to the resort. The free reign of a Varadero all-inclusive paradise awaits and sates all yearnings for relaxation. Where to begin... How about sitting in a cabana having an attendant spark your first of many cigars and quench your thirst with a pina colada spiked with rum. The ocean's nearby; calming and vast, crashing waves send tranquility on the breeze. Sometimes a bit of familiarity is needed so head to the weight room and get some, afterwards set your muscles at ease with a massage. Oh you're getting hungry, on site there's French, Italian, and Japanese cuisine. How does champagne, lobster, and dessert set on the coastline, watching the sun set and night sky transition? Pristine... something's missing, there's no time for sitting, an entire city waits to be seen and all sorts of hidden gems locals love to share. Arrange a liaison and you'll be riding in style, a restored 56' Chevy Bel-air painted purple with silver trim to hit the road toward Havana. Water will be needed since the sun is unforgiving but a quick stop for a pina colada out of a pineapple with a splash of rum rejuvenates quick. There's an electricity once you enter the city of Havana, people crossing streets without any regard for traffic, other drivers competing for fares, and average Jose's on their way to work. Take a stroll down to old Havana to see a Christo on a ridge where you can see all of New Havana, and La Plaza de la Revolucion. A vast open space with government buildings and portraits of Che Guevara and Fidel Castro. If your driver is learned they'll know of an art exhibit called Fusterlandia, made by a fellow who made his whole house into an art-piece made of colored tile. With all sorts of constructed musings of animals, women, and cultural gatherings. Onward to New Havana, walk among historical districts with cathedrals, statues of poets like Shakespere or Hemingway. The amount of bars and diners should entice you but there's one above all, Buena Vista Social Club! A stage with renowned artists and dancers, a dinner sure to sate your hunger, and music to keep you groovin' till the after party which is literally outside down the road. Yet more to do, sun rises and its time to dive. Strap on the flippers, snorkel, and swim in clear blue waters. All sorts of fish, coral, and maybe far enough out the drop off will present itself. Endless unknown we ain't made for. Gotta get a bite, here's authentic pollo con arroz grilled on the beach, home cookin! Moving on to a hidden cove of fresh water, a local hangout, and forever tainted by a tourist. Remember that seaside grill, Montezuma's getting revenge and the victims are the swimwear and bathroom tile. Now you got a little more than you bargained for, resort's got a bar present to wash away what is, forever no longer unknown.