Birthday!! One, two, three ... JUMP (who needs candles?)

I love Birthdays.  Mine, yours ... any of them, they're all great (such a good reason to celebrate truly).

For the past few years I've noted that my trend's been to include tons of friends and cross things off the bucket list.  Like in 2010 a crowd of friends flew to Newfoundland for 5 days. There was such a collection of old and new friends, that we dubbed the vacation "East Coast Blend on the Rock". So awesome.  St. John's hasn't been the same yet haha.

In 2011 I took off to Ireland to explore all four corners and reunite with dear friends.  On the date of the actual Birthday, I climbed the 7 stories of the Blarney Castle to Kiss the Blarney Stone and spend the night partying in local pubs thereafter in Killarney with 14 new pals who had signed up for the 3 day Paddy Wagon tour.  What wonderful memories.

So, what should I do for 2012's big day?   ... I know.  :)  Let's go skydiving.

My friends, Heather and Devin decide to join me (those crazies lol).  We contact Moncton Skydive 3 weeks before.  Their regular season isn't open yet but they found us a pilot who's willing to take us up.  Sweet.  Now we watch the weather and if conditions are perfect, we'll jump Friday night at 5pm.  We all decided that we'd like to do the tandem jump.  This has us strapped to an experienced jumper who'll be in control the entire time (including the landing) and will give us an opportunity to free fall at a height of 10000 feet about the earth.  Incredible.

We booked.  We waited.  We committed ourselves to the 2 hour road trip and night in a hotel on the booked date.  One hour before 'go time' we phoned Louise (at Skydive Moncton) to make sure the conditions were good and the pilot was still eager to take us up.  She confirmed. Nothing but blue sky and limited wind.  It was at this moment we realized that "OMG, WE ARE JUMPING FROM A PLANE IN LIKE ONE HOUR".  ... the room fell a little silent.  More of a reflective, excited state and not a feared or anxious one.

Once there, we met Serge who signed us up (waiver's and witnesses), told us what to expect and how it'd work and provided us with about 30 minutes of training.  Then it was a coin toss (okay, not really ... Birthday Girl goes first lol) to get suited up and in about 20 minutes from that moment, we were standing at the plane ready to board.  Derrick, who had jumped before, would be joining me in the sky, along with his expert tandem skydiver, Mike.  Including the pilot, let's just say there's not much wiggle room in the plane with six people.

The highlights of the training are, keep your head up and don't forget to breath. When the door to the plane opens, it WILL NOT suck you out.  Don't hang onto the sides of the plane (you'll see I did do this in my video).  You are securely fastened to your diver and should something happen your parachute is set to deploy at-so-many (forget the exact distance) automatically. You will step out of the plane.  On the count of three you will arch yourself when you start free fall.  "1, 2, 3" ARCH (head back, bend your knees, try to get your feet to your butt...the wind does help with this).  Don't panic.  If you can't breathe, tilt your head back further and stare out into the horizon.

Earth, Water, Air, Sky and me.  Jumping out of a plane at 10000 feet. Free falling to 5000 and having that parachute yank you back up so you can float...drift back to land.  There's nothing like it!

It's like flying. No...not really.  It's like falling. No...not really.  It's amazing. It's surreal. It's one of the most profound things I've done to date.    

Thanks Skydive Moncton (special thanks to Louise for coordinating), my tandem skydiving expert, Joey.  Serge for taking pics and video.  My friends Heather and Devin (and your skydiver experts and vid/pic jumpers) for deciding to jump with me (amazing Birthday)!! And to the weathermen for dreaming up the best forecast ever and it coming true. :)

Weekly Survey Question: Would you say you're adventurous? 43% of you said yes, try any things once.  That's awesome.  If you haven't tried skydiving, you must put it on your list!  I still can't describe in words how very very cool the experience is.  www.skydivemoncton.ca

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc. in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of this blog page). No sign up necessary, just a simple click :) A little shy?! Why not EMAIL me?

~Holiday Heidi
(be sure to check out Your Adventure Map (at the top of this page) so you can read all previous adventure posts leading up to this one).

Here's my jump 

YouTube: Holiday Heidi Skydives

... you can't tell till the very end exactly how excited I am!!

Heidi's Jump (via Blogger)

My friends, Heather and Devin's skydive experience.  All the same...all different.  Amazing.  Thanks Skydive Moncton!!  Awesome.

Devin's Jump

Heather's Jump

Montréal's wishing you'd come play ... why wait?

Canada: Montréal, Quebec (July 2008, part II)

...but seriously, who goes to  Montréal and sleeps in a tent? hahaha.

Ahh morning :) the time of day when the sun first illuminates the sky and you remember that summers heat is simultaneous with the appearance of this glowing star. You also remember what 'hot' really feels like as your tent (and all its contents) heat up under the lack of protection of the direct rays. Wow.

While you experience this 'heat', the family of 2 adults and 17 children (exaggerated, okay not 17...but sure sounded it lol), next door must have forgotten that sleeping in a tent isn't at all soundproof. After seemingly endless hours of shouting demands "no!" "No!" "NOOOoo", they finally unzip their nylon pegged house and release all 17 of their screaming little people into the park. Ay yi yi!!

No time for a test of patience today my friends, slap on that smile, we're off to explore Montréal. :) Up, ready and out of there. A short 30 minute drive (or less), weaving in and out of 2-4 lanes of fast paced traffic, we then take our exit to city centre. A blur of people, buildings, traffic lights, cars, pavement, signs, flowers...that eventually flowed into a comprehensible and beautiful scenic tour of  Montréal: East, West, North and South (or rather, Old, New and all places within the grid). 

Streets lined with row houses (mostly brick) with happily painted front doors and trusting fire scapes. Pretty flower boxes amongst the lush tree canopy.

People walking dogs, jogging and peddling their bikes along sidewalks, sidewalks that never seem to meet any hills, only slight inclines. There were Churches, office buildings, stores and so many people.

Finally, a parking spot and what luck, we found one right on Ste Catherines Street...this is THE street in Montréal "anything you want". Without hesitation, we were game to leave the views of our moving vehicle and explore this City on foot. By 'explore', I mean walk down Ste Catherine’s Street, all 11.5 km's of it, to see what we could see. It was endless :)

Shop, eat, drink, sightsee...this street had everything we'd need (and everything we didn't know we needed haha).

Within the first few minutes the temperature started to rise. Not only from the sun's heat, as we had lucked into a 43 degree Celsius day (great for roaming crowded, paved streets lol), but there were sex shops, signage, patios and clubs interlaced very tastefully amongst stores, Churches, people and restaurants. 

There were people strolling the streets wearing leather outfits, go-go boots 

and donning hair of many shades and styles. Churches (so many extraordinary Churches) and other buildings of historical significance were the backdrop scenes of these same sidewalks. They were shared with folks wearing suits, dresses, tourist garb and just plain everyday clothes. None of this seemed unusual, nor did it justify a reason to shy away, to stare or to judge. The combination of it all was consistent, in abundance and comfortable, such a natural fit for this City. 

Montréal was very different from my upbringing and all things in my current world.  It was beautiful. I had just entered the gateway to a Cultural Haven. We walked a little further only to learn that on this particular Saturday there were extra events to partake in.

Ste Catherine's was hosting a 2.0 km (no vehicle access) sidewalk sale, off on a little side street (Crescent Street) would be the excitement of a Corona Beer Festival and along the way would be many, many street performers, parades and artistic displays to entertain the droves of passer-bys. 

Here's a short video clip of an incredible drum band performing on Ste Catherine's.

We spent the entire day outside observing, living and shifting our way through the crowds. We stopped to eat at the Hard Rock Cafe (which I believe it sadly closed back in 2009), we had caricature pictures drawn street side and we shopped. Then we sat outside near the fountains of the Place des-Arts, rather enjoying the heat of this summer day. The people were friendly, the smells were (mostly) delicious and the sounds were captivating.

On this very day, I fell in Love with Montréal!!!

  

And that was that.

Night had fallen.  We made our way back to our parked car and navigated ourselves out of town to Hudson.  Once there our campsite beckoned us to have a seat, light a campfire and stare into the starry sky while we recalled the adventures of the day.  Weekends never really do last long enough and my time with Sister would be over when we awoke the next day.

The drive back was quiet and rainy, very fitting of the bleakness within the car.  It wasn't all somber. Silently I kept thinking that it takes less than a day's worth of unshared driving to return.;) And since I knew the second we drove pass the Welcome sign when we arrived Friday, this wouldn't be the first and only time I'd come here to play.  Plus, we really had just spent some great quality time with Sister, short as it was.

Next time I think we plan to visit Montréal for more than a day?!   We need to sightsee, live next door to Ste Catherine's for a night or two, experience the night life, visit the Old, the New and the Underground and step into explore these places of historical significance, such sound architectural masterpieces. We need to talk to more people, happen upon other festivals and markets and enjoy thoroughly Canada's adult playground.

Montréal truly is a City that doesn't sleep, I'm sure we can find a few pals who'd like to join us for a weekend roadtrip in the future? (>>>fast forward to 2011). Let's rebook our next adventure shall we?

Weekly Survey Question: when booking your vacation, you...? Ready to book?  33% of you will call your Travel Agent, while 46% of you will take the time to search online first, determine what you want and then call your Travel Agent and  only 21% will search, plan and book your entire vacation online yourself.  Regardless of your method, I hope that you've added Montréal to your list of must see City's.

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc. in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of this blog page). No sign up necessary, just a simple click :) A little shy?! Why not EMAIL me?

~Holiday Heidi
(be sure to check out Your Adventure Map (at the top of this page) so you can read all previous adventure posts leading up to this one).

Maiden Memories of Montréal

Canada: Montréal, Quebec (July 2008, part I) 

Early in 2008, my Sister moved to a town just outside of Montréal. When family members decide that it’s time to leave the nest and explore new places, one can only hope that their adventure is within driving distance (or that there’s an airport nearby). Montréal is a convenient distance away (some ten hours or less by automobile), so even before her departure we were discussing the details of my arrival. … ROAD TRIP haha. I had heard of this sleepless cultural haven and would finally get my very own glimpse. 

First impressions: charming, traditional, modern, friendly, hospitable, open minded, cultural, exciting and quaint. I'm trying to think of things that this city isn't...(but I've got nothing). A window to history, an adult playground, the most romantic blend of old and new, even the streets politely whisper as you pass by ... en Français of course. It's exactly the kind of place that will open your eyes, keep you interested and content, leave you wanting more, yet fulfilled at the same time. Bienvenue a Montréal. 

This trip wasn't really about Montréal...well it was, but not really. It was more for spending time in Sister's company and maybe getting to see a few sights in between. I was excited about all of it. Since this was our summer season, or as we like to refer to it, our "camping season", choice of accommodations was easy. For enjoyment, cost savings and maximum quality time, we had decided to spend the weekend in a tent at Choisy Campground (conveniently located near Sister's place and Montréal city-centre), in Hudson...perfect. 

Bon Voyage! Early Friday, as the sun smacked down its July heat, our friend Doug and I departed, bound for Quebec in thankfully an air-conditioned ride. For the first few hours I drove, that's about all I'm good for. Well okay, I guess the first few hours of driving, and then I’m great at: vehicle temperature control, suggesting mandatory washroom breaks, endless chatting, chronic radio station searching, updating the digital photo library of the entire journey and maybe some map reading if it's required. Just as we entered into "Construction Country", also known as 'the Quebec highway', Doug took the wheel for the remaining 5-6 hours (thank you, thank you). 

Once you enter the province of Quebec, you’ll instantly observe certain things. Like for example, the majority of the highway is not twined, the speed limit is 90 km / hour and reduces rather often to 60 km / hour due to construction zones (which there are many, no matter the time of year) and all the road signs are in French, which is of no surprise since this is the official language. 

There are forested areas with so many trees they blur as you pass. The same blur that periodically pauses for you to catch glimpses of the lakes, rivers, small towns and wildlife it screens. On a clear day you might be lucky enough to follow (off in the distance) the beautiful mountain range (Appalachian Mountains I believe). 

Farmland upon farmland, you won’t have a far distance to travel before you see a silo, another silo and another. To remind you that you're passing by farm country, open fields will appear on your left and your right, you may get stuck behind a farm tractor moving along about 15 km / hour unable to pass because the highway lacks passing lanes and when the conditions are right, you may end up gagging over the wafting fresh scent of manure.  My only advice:  plug your nose and cautiously speed up :) and know that this too shall pass! haha.

L H Lafontaine Tunnel

Most people within Quebec can speak French and English (thankfully bilingual).  I always try to speak the official language of where I'm visiting, out of respect for their culture but I'm certain nothing could be funnier for them than listening to me try :)  Doug and I had stopped for petro just outside of Montréal (just before passing through the tunnel) and decided that we'd order take-out before hitting the road again.  I'm not sure who's French was worse (oh dear lol), and if it hadn't been for the ability to point at the menu who knows what we'd have left there with to eat. 

We arrived at Sister's residence shortly before dark. Near midnight, we were at the campground setting up our tent in front of the car's headlights. What an adventure this day had been. Not long after the sleeping bags were taken out of the trunk and tossed in, all eyes were closed and twitching as the state of dreaming rapidly swept over the three of us. It had been decided that tomorrow we'd venture back to Montréal ...no plan except to drive, park and explore. Bon nuit.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 
When we wake up in that cozy little tent of ours, I promise we'll go to Montréal's City Centre, just not today (remember each post can only be a 7 minute read, a little vicarious mini-vacation). I don't know about you, but I'm very excited to experience this romantic, historic, exotic, interesting City.

Part II is one only week away: Montréal's wishing you'd come play ... why wait?  I think visiting a place that chimes character and boasts diversity is just the get-away we need. Hope your bags are packed (oh, and wear good shoes, we'll be exploring Montréal on foot).

Weekly Survey Question:  what do you enjoy most about travelling?
Although we all enjoy planning, booking and counting down to our next adventure, 80% have said that getting there and doing is your number one favourite thing about travel.  Mine too :)

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc.  in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of this blog page).  No sign up necessary, just a simple click :) A little shy?!  Why not EMAIL me?

~Holiday Heidi
(be sure to check out Your Adventure Map (at the top of this page) so you can read all previous adventure posts leading up to this one)  **And if you wish to drive through Montréal's L H Lafontaine Tunnel (photo shared above), you can follow this link I found on YouTube to experience it yourself Montreal Tunnel)

Until we meet again Varadero ... :)

Cuba, April 2008 (Varadero, Part VI) 

What a difference a day makes!  One day basking in the Caribbean waters soaking up rays, the next...

'Now what'?!  I stood there staring at the medical centre's "CLOSED ON SUNDAYS" sign thinking that by doing so it'd open. I was convinced that I wouldn’t be able to fly the 4 hours to get home without first visiting a doctor.  I even feared that I might not live through the overnight to get on the plane.  What a terrifying feeling. 

There are many hospitals in Cuba, they cost pricey taxi drives to get there though (even with medical insurance).  If you call an ambulance all expenses must be paid for out of pocket first and then reimbursed when you return home.   I declined.  Instead I went to find additional over the counter remedies until I could land back on Canadian soil.

This adventure led us to the mall a short distance away, what a bold, brave action on my part. I didn't really shop, I got what I needed and then benched myself while Quinnifer picked up some trinkets to bring back to family and friends.   Pleased, I hadn't lost my sense of humour through this ordeal and keeping with the start a travelling tradition, I did happen to find my Dad a small "Cuba" picture frame.  I'd now be gifting him a photo a me and my "future husband" from here. Hahah what fun.

The latter part of Sunday was spent saying good-bye to all the wonderful people we had met.  The security guard down at the beach (who had tirelessly tired to teach me Spanish), Heidy, Isabella, Miguel, the front lobby attendant, Leanne & Mack and of course, Duardo.  I hadn’t seen him since the room visit on Friday and now here he was.

By the time 11 p.m. had rolled around that night, I would have definitely been in some type of parasite coma.  Although I did recall Quinn telling me in my darkest hours on Saturday, that he had actually been there and knocked on the door.  She was in bed also and decided not to get up to answer it.  

Before leaving, apparently he slid a note under the door for me.  Now standing here face to face, we’d finally get a chance to talk about this. :)  He had no trouble believing I was ill when I ordered a fruit juice instead of an alcoholic beverage. 

It wasn’t at all like any of my other ‘last night’s on vacation”, dedicated for the all night party.  Not even close.  Instead, Quinnifer and I sat on the terrace of the lobby bar, while Duardo told us of Cuba’s history.  Learned of his family, their way of life and how things were changing.  By night’s end he and I were very much of the same understanding, while I did appreciate the flowers and the notes, I was only interested in making new friends, nothing more.

As the sun made its way to a position in the sky that’d start to heat up the beaches of Varadero, we were up doing our last minute packing and preparing for departure.  This routine was like a well-oiled machine for us really, so it’s no wonder when the phone rang we were both a little startled.  Awe, it was Duardo, just getting off his night shift, calling to wish us a safe flight home.

I did make it to breakfast this morning, first time in a few days. I thought maybe I needed to try a cracker / bread mix for the gallons of H2O plus the “as many as I can medically take, plus one more” tablets for stomach issues that I had consumed.  Whatever it took.

It was imperative that I get on that plane and make it home…without incident!  I felt pretty confident as we arrived in the lobby to wait for our transfer to the airport.  As the minutes continued to pass and quickly turned into an hour without the appearance of this bus, I began to question my ability to proceed.

Although assurance came faithfully from the security guard at the lobby, when we questioned the whereabouts of our bus.  He kept saying that we wouldn’t miss it, it hadn’t forgotten us…okay, so where was it?  We just needed to relax, “you’re on Cuba time now” he says, … “the bus is late, and you wait, its no problem”.  He was great (and rather cute).  As ill as I was and as anxious as I might have been about our missing bus, I truly had a terrific time talking to him. ;)

Finally on the plane headed for home!!  :)  I had self medicated enough that I nearly slept the entire flight.  Phew, made it!  As crazy as my world had been pre-vacation, then preceded by the incidents of a parasite, my return home was matched with equal unbalanced life instances, which continued for approximately an additional six weeks.  First things first, hospital please.

When things settled, I was able to reflect. Cuba is a fascinating place, absolutely gorgeous: so tropical, clean and friendly.  I look forward to visiting those beaches and reuniting with those spectacular people again, hopefully you’ll have your bags packed too?! :)  We’ll stay away from the peanuts though, just in case! 

Until we meet again Varadero :) ... I look forward to that day!

Choosing where to go on holiday can be a bit tricky, especially when there are so many options within the same price range. The results from the Weekly Survey Question: when thinking of your dream vacation destination, what's most important?  70% of you say the location, 29% look for places that will treat you with utmost customer service and hospitality and there are still a few of you that book according to star rating (1%).  I'd be surprised if any location within the destination of Cuba would disappoint any of you.

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc.  in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of this blog page).  No sign up necessary, just a simple click :) A little shy?!  Why not EMAIL me?

~Holiday Heidi

(be sure to check out Your Adventure Map (at the top of this page) so you can read all previous adventure posts leading up to this one)

Of Love or Peanuts...Dear Cuba, I must go Home!

Cuba, April 2008 (Varadero, Part V)

So there I sit amongst the hand-picked flowers and mysterious paper ball.  After a few moments I remember that Duardo had brought us beverages, I then got up to find my drink.  I figured after all this, I needed a little sip (half a glass, maybe a little more), who wouldn’t?! :) We continued to get ready for dinner.  With about 15 minutes to spare, I thought it was time to see what was in that ball of paper.  I was pale … and yet, somehow flush at the same time?!  Is that even possible?

One piece of paper led to another…and then another…and yet another. Oh wow!  Duardo had obviously spent the time between 5pm, when we were thought to have been back, until we actually arrived back at 7pm, to write me a letter.  Inside this full page letter were about 25 tiny pieces of paper, little one line notes.  Oh my, what beautiful things he had written.  However, after I’d read the first few, I was sure he was hoping that I’d ask for more than a beer.  … “beer” … “boyfriend” … yeah, if you say them fast, and after a few tropical mixes they could sound the same. ;)

Rock Lobster in a rich
delicious sauce 

We made our way to dinner.  Once seated we learned that Friday nights were “Seafood nights”, in addition to the regular a la carte menu.  Sweet!  What an interesting day. :)  Food comes in courses when you order and I noted after the salad (the first course), I was struggling to continue.  By the time my rock lobster (the main course) was set in front of me; I couldn’t do much more than just stare at it.  Who is this, surely not me?!  I eat, always.  And I eat well.  And I love seafood.  Sadly, I didn’t even have the strength to pick up and hold my fork.

I kept apologizing to the wait staff for not being able to finish what I’d ordered (so very bizarre).  As soon as the desserts were finished, we decided that we’d walk across the small courtyard to say good-night to Heidy who was working the buffet.  As soon as she spotted us she came right over to greet us.  Instantly she asked if I was feeling alright, to which I replied honestly, “absolutely not”.  “One moment” she says, and off she went to make me a cup of tea that should make me feel better.  What a sweetheart.

Within 20 minutes Quinnifer and I were back in the courtyard enjoying the sights and sounds of a quiet resort evening in Cuba.  What serenity:  laughter from afar, nocturnal insects gleefully chiming, dishes being cleared from tables, music rising up and mixing with the cigar-smoke filled sky.  It was definitely a moment, but only ‘A MOMENT’!

With my eyes as large as hockey pucks, shedding water like an overfilled rain bucket, I turn to Quinn with a look of horror.  I can’t describe to you the instant panic and pain that simultaneously shook my entire body!  But I can assure you, I never, EVER want to experience a moment like this again.

Within a split second I grabbed the edges of my skirt with my hands clenched on each side, lifting it slightly for fear I’d trip. I could think of nothing else as I somehow managed to get one foot in front of the other putting my dressy shoes to the test.  I bolted across the resort grounds like my life depended on it. Well, honestly, my life did depend on it.

I needed to get to our resort room; I needed to be there already.  It was only with shear heartache, that when I reached the door I then realized that my key had been left inside this evening.  :(  I must wait here until I am rescued, thankfully helped arrived within seconds. 

Once inside the confines of that room, I will remind you here that what happens on vacation will stay on vacation (you should be thankful).  But honestly, in my whole life I’ve never been as sick as I was this Friday night in Cuba.  O.M.G.  I was hot, I was cold.  I shook, I was dehydrated, I crawled on my hands and knees and I eventually became one with the little girl’s room (trapped inside those four walls behind a closed door unable to escape for hours).  I have never experienced stomach pain so deep or so vicious.

I now required 24/7 supervision.  Thus ruining the vacation of my travel companion, who was now my very own personal care attendant.  I thought I was going to die.  I ate every bit of stomach control medication we had brought with us and I still needed more.

I couldn’t eat, I couldn’t get out of bed, I couldn’t even talk for nearly two full days. Here I am in a tropical paradise, the outside weather in the mid 30’s (Celsius) and I’m cocooned in 4 heavy blankets, blankets that Quinnifer had to convince the hotel staff to let her bring back to the room.  What was this?!

There’s a rule when you travel, especially if you have a delicate stomach (I wasn’t aware I had such a thing until this moment, great timing) but if you’re staying on a resort, eat their food.  If you’re taking an excursion, pack a snack from the resorts buffet.  I know it sounds like common sense, but if you get hungry and there’s food available, you may become tempted.  Seems I had somehow contracted a parasite which would continue to cause me great illness long after I returned home.

Retracing my Havana day (and my eating habits) I can recall the most likely fateful moment.  At the Capital Building, I was starving (which isn’t uncommon for me).  There was this sweet little lady over where the buses park (further than the left in this picture) selling coins and paper packs of peanuts.  “3 Packs of Peanuts for 1 Peso” “3 Packs of Peanuts for 1 Peso” she continually sang out.  As I stepped up in to the bus I couldn’t resist the urge, I was so hungry.  I passed her a peso; she smiled as she passed me my 3 packs, in a homemade paper tube, of pre-shelled peanuts.  “red flag” …

There are other possible places for this parasite to have become part of my “all inclusive” experience truthfully.  I did brush my teeth with the tap water (don’t do this).  I did eat all kinds of new and interesting foods (but I do this all the time and will continue to try) but I guess some things may have been questionable (try to eat only things that you can peel, don’t eat the outer skins of fruits for example).  I did enjoy fresh coconut milk, (this seemed safe) which can, on extremely rare occasions, cause some people problems (suppose if it could happen, it’s likely that it’ll happen to me haha).  You know though, I didn’t think about a parasite with any of those things … and certainly not when I was inhaling those delicious home-packed, pre-shelled peanuts … they were peanuts right?!

For the next two and a half days (the remainder of our stay), if I wasn’t bedridden, I was definitely limited.  By Sunday, day before departure day, we thought it best that I seek medical attention.  Fortunately our resort had such services on site so off we went.  You’re kidding?!  As tears stung the corners of my eyes while wearing a smile that only appears in moments of disbelief, I just stood there staring at the sign in the hot afternoon Cuban sun.  The paper displayed in the window of the medical centre’s door clearly read, “CLOSED SUNDAYS”.  What? Really?!

I hate to do this to you ... but each post can only be a 7 minute read (a little vicarious mini-vacation).  Cuba's final chapter will be ready for you to enjoy shortly, Until we meet again Varadero ... :).  I obviously made it home, I'm here telling the tales, but what do you do when the medical centre's closed?  Seriously?  And what about that front lobby security guard ... haha, you won't believe it!! Perhaps we'll get to see Duardo again before leaving (I'm sure we will)?! Keep your bags packed and stay healthy!!

Weekly Survey Question:  ever gotten sick while travelling?

Getting sick while on holidays is awful!  So far, 52% of you haven’t experienced this and a lucky 17% have only been slightly ill.  However, 31% of you know exactly what getting horribly sick, while not at home, feels like.  Get travel insurance, it’s an investment … you just never know.

Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc.  in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of this blog page).  No sign up necessary, just a simple click :) A little shy?!  Why not EMAIL me?

~Holiday Heidi
(be sure to check out Your Adventure Map (at the top of this page) so you can read all previous adventure posts leading up to this one)

"Habana Bound" - we've saved you a seat

Cuba, April 2008 (Varadero, Part IV)

"Beep-Beep-Beep-BEEP-BEEPPP" ... Yay, you're awake?  Great!!  Sorry about the alarm beeping, but you've got to get up ... we've got ourselves a bus to catch. :)


First things first, breakfast out on the lobby terrace which will include Melia's delicious cafe latte (MMM, so yummy).  Then dress, pack and let's meet in the lobby before 7:45 a.m. Don't worry, we saved you a seat!  And don't rush, the bus won't be on time anyway ("Late Bus?! ... No Problem" ha-ha).  Oh, how I love this carefree, relaxed lifestyle.

Our journey led us quickly out of Varadero and onto the highway through the province of Matanzas.  We passed a few smaller towns before arriving at our destination a seemingly short 2.5 hours later, the Nation’s Capital, Havana.  I remembered from talking to many of the staff, that most people who worked in Varadero actually live in Matanzas.  The transit system would take them back and forth, 7 days a week, along this same highway. The landscape for the duration was colourful, friendly, not overcrowded and not at all heartbreaking.

Our tour bus was luxurious, especially compared to the local transit.  Leg room, seats that reclined, air conditioning, large personal windows complete with curtains!  Myrna was our tour guide. Her voice was sharp; with a very distinct Spanish accent (it was wonderful).  And while I fought strong urges of sleep (vehicle rides tend to make me surrender to the sandman), her commentary on all the nouns (persons, places and things) as we drove by forced my eyes to stay open, I'd hate to miss anything. What a history lesson, what a beautiful Country.  Of all the things I thought I knew, I honestly knew nothing of Cuba.

Our itinerary was revealed long before arriving.  Myrna told us that Havana was divided into 'new and old', we'd be exploring both.  We'd be visiting the Capital Building (a government building, similar to Canada's Parliament building or the White House in the USA), having lunch on the 32nd floor of a hotel, a walk-about in Revolution Square, visiting the Cemetario de Colon (The Christopher Columbus Cemetary), a walking tour of old Havana and before heading back, she'd let us venture into the City on our own for an hour.  YAY!!  We instantly decided that we'd make our way to the enormous market, stopping where ever we wished along the way.  

I hope you're ready?!  In an effort to bring you on this trip, to really make you feel a part of it, I'm currently working on  creating a short clip composed of pictures, videos and music of the highlights from the things we saw and did.  When visiting Cuba, it's well worth your day to visit Havana.   The culture there, the Cuban friendliness, the sights and sounds, the history ... you can’t come close to seeing it all in one day, stay for two or three.

Welcome to Havana!!  This Capital city has a total of 20% of the Country's entire population living here (that's a total of 2.1 million people living in Havana). It was a perfect balance of old and new:  the architecture, statues and even the cars ... there were so many 'old' cars in Cuba, all of them in mint condition.  One important thing to tell you (just as the bus comes to a halt), "pedestrians DO NOT have the right of way in Cuba".  Thank you Myrna ... you weren't kidding.

this will eventually be your link -> Here, see Havana for yourself 

(Coming soon:  an adventure video, vicariously exploring Cuba's Capital with Holiday Heidi)

What an incredible day.  About 5 o'clock we loaded back on the bus to return to Varadero. The solitude experienced this time around wasn't because anyone was sleeping, but more because all eyes were still gazing out the windows at scenic Cuba and everyone was trying to absorb all the information and exchanges that had occurred throughout their day.  What a place.

The bus pulled up just before 7 p.m. to our front lobby.  With dinner reservations for 9, this was perfect timing. I did mention that there were a few local staffers that had paid a bit more attention to me than the rest?!  ... See, while Quinn was sick the first few days, I spent a great deal of time at the lobby bar talking to Duardo.   Nice guy.  I did mention to him a few days back that we'd be going to Havana for the day on Friday. Yes, yes I did.


...walking through the lobby I felt a little sluggish.  Hmmm ... a little ... weird.  This would be normal for me after travelling by bus and not sleeping ...  but it felt different ... kind of weak .. hmmm.

As we walked toward our room we passed by the lobby bar, Duardo immediately beckoned for us to come over to the patio.  Once there, he greeted us both with half hugs and cheek kisses and welcomed us back. He then looks at me and says "I didn't realize you'd be gone so long today" as he proceeded to take our beverage orders.  We chatted for a moment, told him how much we loved our trip Havana, what we saw and what did and explained that we now had to rush to make our dinner reservations.  He then offered to bring our drinks to our room as soon as he was free. Perfect. Mind you, this isn't a normal service provided ...whew, special treatment.

Still feeling slightly 'off', I answered the door about 20 minutes later. With no surprise, there was Duardo but not only was he carrying our drinks, he stretched out his arm and handed me a large bouquet of flowers. Well there, that's a surprise!  These weren't just any flowers either! Oh no, these beauties were handpicked from all the flower pots and arrangements he would have passed by while walking from the lobby to our room! Hahahah.  Crazy. :)

But wait that wasn't all.  Duardo now looks at me, takes my hands, opens them, puts a ball of paper in them, and whispers "while you were in Havana."  ... I'm speechless and unable to make eye contact  "what is this" I ask ... "I'm off at 11 p.m." he says, as clasps my hands shut.  ... I don't say a word.

Duardo and I are still standing in the door.  He smiles, lets go of my hands, turns away and starts to skip down the corridor "11 p.m., I'm off work at 11." ... what just happened?!  What?!  *smiling and shaking my head* What?! Completely stunned, I turn kicking the door shut with my foot behind me and stare blankly as I set everything on the sofa, including myself.

Honestly, I wouldn't have seen Duardo at 11 p.m. anyhow ... but the events of the rest of my evening would ensure that I wouldn't see him, or anyone else in Cuba for the remainder of my stay. :(



I love anticipation, don't you? ... It'll be worth the wait :)  I'll be back soon to share the rest of our Havana Day.  What a memorable day ... from start to finish.  The next post entitled "Of Love or Peanuts...Dear Cuba, I must go Home" I'll tell you of our dinner reservation and how our brief time with Heidy that night came to a sudden  halt.  How being captive in your room isn't pleasurable, not for one day, worse if it's two and horrible when you're convinced you're not going to make it out at all. :(   And you're probably curious as to what Duardo gifted me in that paper ball. ... I can't wait for you to join me on this adventure.  CANNOT WAIT :)
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The results from the Weekly Survey Question:  how would you rate your bartering skills?

42% Excellent (always feel as thought you've achieved the best price)

29% Not bad / Not good

23% Terrible (always feel like you've paid way too much)

06% of you have never bartered.

I wouldn't necessarily say that I faired so well with the bartering system this trip.  I did do a lot better once we were in the Market setting and not just randomly on the street.  This pretty girl here normally only charges one peso for a picture with her in her pretty dress, yet somehow my price (of which I paid) was 5 pesos. lol. 


Share your comments, your stories, your travel advice etc. in the section below (comments or reaction section) and give your answer to the weekly survey (top right of the blog page).  No sign up necessary, just a simple click :) A little shy?!  Why not EMAIL me?

~Holiday Heidi