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 :)
- - - 

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

A Cuban Experience

Cuba, April 2008 (Varadero, Part III)

To maximize this Cuban experience, I'll have to ask that you leave the mesmerizing beaches of Varadero where I left you in Part II, just for a minute, while I share these less adventurous bits of information with you.

The currency in Cuba is the CUC (Cuban Convertible Pesos or ‘tourist pesos’). You can only purchase them once you get there (there are lots of conversion websites for you to search on Google if you're interested in knowing the exchange rate).  The rates did vary every day (slightly) but we were lucky enough that our resort did the exchange on site. 

 
Feel like getting out?  Cuba is incredibly safe.  Taxis are very cheap and very efficient and there's also Double-Decked tour buses that make several stops along the Varadero peninsula (for really cheap).


And after it was too late for me to check this place out, I did learn of Calle 64 in town.  It's the disco where everyone, vacationers and locals, meet in Varadero for music, cervezas (at a cost, because it's not all-inclusive once you leave resort) and dancing (open every night for your entertainment...or so I'm told). *sigh*

As part of our trip, we had to make a one day trip to visit five other resorts.  This one day adventure to the Melia chain of accommodations was absolutely incredible.  We saw Cuba's only golf course, took the "tram train" between three resorts (it's a free trolley service for those staying in the Melia family of close proximity), tried fresh coconut, ate lunch with the nicest guy at the Tryp resort (his name started with"Y" but I couldn't pronounce it, he was super nice and so informative) and listened to numerous live bands playing authentic Cuban music.   Just like this one...

Here's a little Cuban Flavour for you :) 

After visiting the final resort (Paradisus Princesa del Mar), I vowed that should I ever marry, Cuba would be the place we honeymoon -everything about this place is romantic!  Then top it off with a five star spa-cation!? Yes, why wouldn't you? In my opinion, every couple needs to visit "postcard Cuba" for starting (or rekindling) their love.

Of the many things that I learned, I'm still astonished that males (optional for women) had to join the military for 2 years at the age of 18 and that everyone in Cuba could attend university (everyone was so well educated). Most would choose tourism studies and languages over degrees for medical doctors (this would pay the same upon completion, but doctors wouldn't receive gratuities, crazy eh?). 

And for the first time in history, Cubans would just now be able to vacation and stay in the same hotels and resorts as those visiting from all over the world (except for residents of the United States, who unfortunately still aren't permitted to visit as history will tell you) had been enjoying for years and years.

There were times when I wondered if Quinn and I were the only English speaking visitors there (aside from the staff, I'm pretty certain we were).  This makes it a wee bit difficult to make new friends.  Although we did meet a really nice couple from Quebec (who were bilingual).

I don't ever recall in my whole life seeing so many Speedos ("I wear short shorts" hahah) in one central area, as I did on those beaches!  They seemed to have formed their own club and any male wearing a black Speedo could join, but they had to be interested in playing bocce ball. :) Seems I'd always find myself in the front row once the game started (how does this happen?  Come on, I was seated there first...I didn’t relocate either lol).

I found the food to be delicious ... but I eat anything with few complaints regardless. The customer service was amazing.  I smile as I remember the security guards, front lobby desk attendants, bartenders, our servers and those booking our excursions with Cubanana Tours, all of them were amazing!  My Cuban "Heidy" was so genuine and friendly.  She and I kept in touch for the longest time after I returned home (I hope to reunite with her again one day).  

Heidy was no different than any of the others we spoke to who worked here, most could really speak five (or more) languages.  How incredible!!  The results from the Weekly Survey Question:  how many languages do you speak?  72% of you are the same as me, only able to communicate in one language.  As for the rest of you, 16% of you speak (or attempt to) 2-3 languages, while 12% of you are fully bilingual.  How wonderful! The more languages you can speak obviously means the more friends you have the potential to make. I'm so envious.

During this vacation, I did learn how to dance the merengue on the beach (which was very entertaining).  I enjoyed trying the dancing as much as the frozen mojito drinks (fresh mint, rum, sugar, lime and club soda) of which I had waited all week before trying...what the?!

Both were about as dangerous and fun as the thousands of Cuban cigars I puffed on all week long.

Gosh, you only have to be away on vacation to realize how fast seven days can go by.  Quinn and I had decided early in the week that we'd like to take the tour to Habana (most know it was "Havana", Cuba's Capital).  We booked with a very cheerful and happy Isabella (from Cubanana Tours).  She was very excited to be sending us out to experience the sights and sounds of the Capital and explore Cuba's terrain during our two hour bus ride to get there. 

The next post entitled "Habana Bound - we've saved your seat" will conclude our Cuban adventure.  I hope you're ready for a slightly rough (yet interesting) ride until we get back home ;)

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 send me an email instead: holidayheidi@hotmail.ca

~Holiday Heidi

Visiting a postcard ... welcome to Cuba!!!!

Cuba, April 2008 (Varadero, Part II)

You know that instant awkward feeling of waking up not knowing where it is you are?  There are situations that take place long before wake up time that make this condition much more likely. (HAHA) Okay...wait!  There are billions of scenarios that can cause this, but you've all been there right?

For the purpose of this story, I was thinking things like:  arriving late after a four hour flight, spending an hour at the airport collecting things and then taking a 35 minute bus ride through the darkness.  All this followed by a very speedy check-in, a quick tour of the room and then shutting off the lights, for that much needed nap, just as soon as you locate the bed.  These would be the light and fluffy conditions after a hellish few weeks, where "life" had occured before arriving here.  ;)

It was like being caught in a twister really.  Going from all things crazy, to ... "well hello there, welcome to paradise".   It's so nice to wake up in a quiet, clean, bright, villa-like room, decorated with pastel accessories, interesting paintings and calming tiles.  Then to accentuate this postcard moment by viewing outside the door to where the palm trees tower over the other tropical vegetation...O.M.G!!  And finally to realize that this greenery is the host location for the millions of tiny birds and animals that happily keep repeating "Buenos días...¿Cómo está?...Despiertate!! ... so heavenly.

Wait, wait!!!  I know where I am!! :) I'm on a Caribbean vacation, aren’t I? "Yes, I am!! ... Yes I AM"!  I'm in Varadero, Cuba (oh my word, I...am...IN...CUBA).  And that's Quinn over there.  YAY, I was piecing it all together and my eyes were only about 1/3 open. :)  I also figured out that this was our lower level room at Melia Las Antillas...OUR HOME for the next 7 DAYS!!  ... SEVEN DAYS!  :)

My eyes were fully opened now, beaming from floor to ceiling, wall to wall and with an overwhelming feeling that enough time had already been wasted. The animals were right "Good Morning ... How are you?...Wake up".  Okay...I'm up!!  We must go find coffee, la playa and breakfast (and the staff, all the vacationers and find our way around this place). 

Melia Las Antillas is a four star, adult only, 350 room resort.  It's located almost central along the peninsula resort town of Varadero (right next to the ever popular Blau resort) only a half hour drive from the airport.

It has 3 a la carte restaurants plus the buffet, 7 bars, tennis courts, 2 swimming pools, activities programme, day & evening entertainment, a rather extensive list of general activities available, a disco and a doctor on-site (thankfully).

This resort spans over six hectares and don't worry, you don't have to stroll long before you're on the short path to the beach.  Pass the pool via a wooden route through a tropical forest, and "oh wow"... there it is.  Clear blue water, lapping waves, fine white sand stretching as far as you see in any direction and lounge chairs beckoning you to come have a seat.  Oh yeah, and some very (very) nice beach attendants ;)

This vacation week had started off a little rough.  Aside from my pre-trip insanity, Cousin arrives and instantly feels less than healthy (which seemed to hang on for a few days).  There didn't seem to be a vibrant night life here (a true retirement village after 11pm) and the weather at the start of this week was a little dismal and gray. 

We did make the most of it though.  Quinn spent evenings resting while I ventured out for meals and mingle time.  Fortunately, after a couple of days the sun returned to the skies, literally (and figuratively) and routines to hang out with our favourite resort locals fell into place, as did booking excursions off resort and making plans to fill our days.

It may have rained a couple of times ... but we were prepared for wet weather. 

The sun might have been hiding behind the clouds ... but the ocean water was so warm. 

I might have gotten bit by some very upset fire ants (more than once) ... but we brought allergy medication. 

The company we were travelling with might have had a representative (who was supposed to meet us on several occasions) ... but we left Cuba with as much knowledge of this person as when we came (her name).

Quinn might have had to visit 5 other resorts (for work) ... but we got to experience so many cool things by doing this. 

I may have been the apple of a few eyes ... but I was only here for one week (ha-ha). 

And we may have gotten a chance to visit Havana ... but this experience would eventually be more about avoiding peanuts (stupid peanuts).

Most days would start out the same:  wake up, venture to the lobby, and order a latte (YUM).  Listen to the birds, chat with the bar staff, say "hola" to every person we meet along the way and then go get ready for some beach time.  With beach time came the use of our travel mugs (Bubba Keg, that's what the brand title is) which meant saying good morning to our favourite server, Tatianna.  She was gorgeous.  Sparkly gold eye shadow, brilliant smile, such a hard worker ... married with a five year old (gorgeous) son.  She'd fill our Bubba mugs, we'd chat for a bit and then off we'd go to select our chair on the beach! ~life is good~

Okay, just hang here on the beach for a while ...

Awesome huh?  :)

The results from the Weekly Survey Question:  from this list, what's the most important item for you to pack?

46% Camera

26% Tooth Brush

13% Cell Phone

11% Itineray / Map

2% Lipstick 

For anyone who knows me, I might bring my camera (HAHA)...maybe!? lol But I definitely couldn't live without packing my lipstick (bahaha)!! ;)

Cuba is really a unique place to visit.  In my opinion, the beaches there are some of the nicest in the world (at least in comparison of my travels thus far).  The people are so kind, genuine and educated that they make you feel welcome without expectation.  It's the kind of place where you just take comfort in "being".  The next post entitled "A Cuban Experience" will be ready for you within a week :)

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 send me an email instead: holidayheidi@hotmail.ca.

~ Holiday Heidi

A Caribbean Vacation?! Okay :)

Cuba, April 2008 (Varadero, Part I)

Freezing temperatures, short days, limited sun...there's no denying that our winters seem a little unforgiving and endless at times (which can be fabulous for the frosty outdoor enthusiast). However, the popular trend for many east coast Canadians has been to escape to the sunny south for a week or two.   The islands there offer warm ocean breezes, exciting new culture (music, art, and heritage), inclusive food and beverages, some with cute decorative umbrellas.  Plus a whole lot of sunshine and potentially thousands of possible new friendships from all over the world. 

We had totally been bit by the travel bug during our 2007 Dominican Trip.  So, just as the first snowstorm in January of 2008 dumped a new 30 cm blanket of fresh snow that danced around the outdoor landscape happily in the minus 30 degree Celsius wind-chill winds, Quinnifer and I started planning for our next seasonal getaway.   Cost, flights, ideas, wants, needs ... every factor was considered.  We needed to discover what both of us wanted out of our vacation so that in the end, any expenditure would leave us mutually feeling content and satisfied.

I believe both of us had in our heads that we'd be returning to Dominicana. But with every search, the results kept suggesting the best place for us to visit was, Cuba.  Cuba eh?  Well, neither of us had ever been there and really couldn't find any good reason 'why not'?  So over the next few weeks Quinnifer watched the deals and options and before long she called to share the good news.  "Varadero Cuba, April 2008, 7 day all inclusive".  Yesss. Oh man, did I ever love the sounds of that. Let the countdown begin!! 

It's funny to think back to the events in one's life before booking this vacation and within those few months leading up to departure.  I could've written a country song over that eight month period.   I always try to be a very positive, happy, go-lucky personality, and I know that I'm extremely blessed as I often experience balance in every sector. However, I am human and thus subject to the same tests and trials offered to everyone else.  And as "together" as I might have seemed, I must tell you that during these moments, the highs and lows in my world felt almost unbearable. 

Gosh, where to start.  Late 2007, the place I called home had flooded and I had only 8 hours to pack my things for 6-10 weeks (which included Christmas).  And then to find a place for my ten year old dog, Ellie, as she wasn't allowed to stay where the insurance company had options to place me.  Immediately following that, winter arrived bringing with it above normal snowfall amounts and cold temperatures.

Happiness returned, offering many solid events.  Snowshoeing, moving back to my place, having Ellie return home, booking a Cuban vacation, starting a part time job and spending tons of time with family and friends.  The weeks flew by.  Along with x-ing of the days off the calendar, vacation excitement grew stronger and stronger! 

And then the flip side of the good times reared its ugliness once again. Ellie got sick over Easter (two weeks before our trip).  Only a week later, we sadly said goodbye to my girl :(  ... we had been inseparable from the time I held her in my hand at 10 weeks old.  I was devastated.  Four short days after that, someone decided to break into my car. 

Two days after that and with only one day before departure, my 87 year old Grandfather fell ill and was admitted to the hospital, where he'd spend his final few weeks.  He promised to be right there when I got home (a promise that fortunately God let him keep).  He wanted to hear all about this Cuba experience the moment I got back.  ... indeed a life relative to that of a country song.

If ever I needed a vacation, it might have been right then ... but it took everything I had to board that plane. 

I had spent the weeks prior packing my suitcase (thankfully).  Filling it with all sorts of tropical items: flip flops ("thongs" I guess they call them in Australia), sunscreen, dresses, skirts, bathing suits, along with gifts for the housekeeping and resort staff.  And although the excitement that was usual before pre-flight had been absent, the second I took my seat on that plane, I knew I was right where I was supposed to be.  :)

Upon arrival, I was reassured over and over that I had made the right decision.  The fresh tropical smell that greeted me the second I stepped off the plane, the voices that kept singing out "hola" and the many friendly faces and smiles that continually welcomed us, I needed this.  We arrived at Melia Las Antillas, Varadero Cuba, shortly after midnight.  Check in was fast, friendly and so efficient that within only minutes of arriving, we were escorted to our room. 

The room was fabulous.  Two twin beds, a couple of stairs to step down into our seating area.  This lead to the patio doors, where we'd find our isolated and private deck just on the other side of the glass.  We got settled and decided that we'd wait until daylight before exploring the resort. 

Varadero, Cuba!!  Who'd have ever thought. :)

The results from the Weekly Survey Question:  ever been to Cuba? An overwhelming 75% of you haven't made it to this destination yet.

So since you're right here with me now, might as well stay along for the adventure!  The white sand beach (all 20+ km's of it), the crystal clear turquoise warm salt water, the pools, the walkways, the shops, the activity club and the people!!  I would love for you to meet a couple of memorable guys from the beach and the lobby's front door. The bartenders: Amilcar and Tatiana. And my dear Heidy. :) Yes, a Cuban "Heidi" our favourite waitress.

Oh there's more.  Think about how humorous the phrase "I mean it" can be if you placed it after most things you said!! Haha.  Hilarious!  Then there's the interesting letters and flowers I received, the trip to Habana ("Havana"), Cuba's Capital City and a sad story of how I was held hostage in our room for 3 long days (by a parasite of all things)! 

So listen, I'll save you a seat right here...

...and within a week, if you're ready, you can join us on vacation in Varadero, Cuba.  Just look for the post entitled:  Visiting a postcard ... welcome to Cuba!!!!

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 send me an email instead: holidayheidi@hotmail.ca.

~Holiday Heidi