SATURDAY, 17 MARCH 2012
Cuba - Varadero
After Havana, we spent 4 days in Varadero staying at the Sirenis la Salina resort. It was just right as there isn't much to see in Varadero. The resort is very nice but while it is very convenient to get into town on the shuttle bus, the town is very small and it is almost there just to cater to tourists. There are two small arts and crafts markets and a few restaurants, an old church and that's about it. But the proximity of Havana certainly made the Varadero resorts popular destinations. Many people made side trips into Havana and also to see the Tropicana show.
The lobby of the Sirenis
The old church in Varadero
Inside the church
Our man in Varadero
This gives an idea of the price of meals for tourists
Another Don Quixote tableau - in the middle of nowhere, beside the road from Varadero beach to the town - the Cubans must love Cervantes
Varadero beach - the catamarans were fun
Cafe in the huge lobby of the Sirenis - great espresso!
We went to the Tropicana show when we were in Havana, but many people took a side trip from the resort to see this - certainly worth seeing but not worth a two hour bus trip.
This is my last post on Cuba for now. It's an amazing country - warm and friendly people, culturally vibrant and a great winter escape. I look forward to returning...
Now that the weather has warmed up, I'm ready to go back to Berlin!
Next post - Potsdam
SATURDAY, 10 MARCH 2012
It seems that I am reluctant to let go of Havana, at least not until the weather warms up in Toronto! So here is "new" Havana - for us, mainly a trip out to Revolution Square and environs, which included the not so new University of Havana, Vedado and then back in Old Havana, the contemporary art in the Palace of Fine Arts.
The iconic image of Che and his "Hasta la victoria siempre" in Revolution Square
Biblioteca Nacional Jose Marti - National Library of Cuba on the south side of the square
Mosaic in the ceiling - lobby of the National Library
Jose Marti Memorial with its tower from where you get a panoramic view of Havana
To the west, the offices of Castro and Miramar beyond
To the north, the University of Havana, Vedado and the Caribbean
From Revolution Square, which is in the middle of nowhere, we did what tourists do when they are on vacation - throw caution to the wind - hopped on a "Bubble Cab" (what?! no seat belts?!) to get us back into town. The University of Havana had some gorgeous buildings, here is just one of the many beautiful portals on campus.
A little unexpected - Don Quixote in Vedado
The beautiful Museum of Decorative Arts in Vedado, the place with the lovely staircase you may have seen in my earlier post Havana Stairs
A no less lovely skylight in the former mansion
The art deco Hotel Nacional at the waterfront
The lobby of the impressive Palace of Fine Arts (no broken windows in this place for sure)
You see Che everywhere in Cuba, this painting in the Palace of Fine Arts is quite special
I love this painting! Wish I haven't lost the name of the artist!
Sunday, 4 MARCH 2012
Havana, with its many gracious historical buildings spanning the centuries, was for me, the star of Cuba. I've only included a few of the highlights below to provide a flavour of this destination, which I will gladly visit again.
Courtyard, complete with peacock, of the Palacios de los Capitanes Generales - former official residence of the governors of Havana, now a museum
The Cathedral of Havana
Inside the Cathedral
The booksellers at the Plaza de Armas reminded me of Paris
Paseo del Prado - the wide leafy pedestrian boulevard that cuts through Old Havana
The art deco Bacardi building and its lobby
The famous Calle Obispo - lots of street life with no traffic
Farmacia Taquechel Museum, an old house turned into a famous pharmacy in the 19th century
Gorgeous restored building in the Plaza Vieja by day
and by night
Typical street in old Havana
Not to miss Chocolate Musuem, not so much for the artifacts but for the smoothest cocoa ever!
Building under restoration
Iglesia de San Francisco by the waterfront
Looks like this might be a coming out event in the church square
Russian Orthodox Cathedral Our Lady of Kazan
Havana at night
Inside the Rum Museum
The famous Buena VistaSocial Club playing in the Rum Museum
SUNDAY, 26 FEBRUARY 2012
Cuba - Havana Stairs
Staircases have always been a fascinating fixation for me when I travel. They were often the first thing I saw upon entering a building and immediately gave me a sense of what the rest of the building would be like. In some instances, I couldn't get into a building and a glimpse of the stairs was a teasing enticement to imagine the possibilities. Here are some from Havana, some spectacularly stunning, others more understated, but all reflect the building in which they were situated.
In a house under renovation in touristy old Havana - think of the potential!
In the Palacios de los Capitanes Generales - former official residence of the governors of Havana, a beautiful colonial building from the late 18th century
This is a nice surprise - not what I had expected to find in the 16th century old fortress Castillo de la Real Fuerza near the Plaza de Armas
Building in old Havana
Another under renovation
Imagine the possibilities!
The Rum Museum restaurant (possibly the stairs to the washroom)
Stairs to the University of Havana Library
One of the faculties at the University
Student Centre University of Havana
The exquisite National Museum of Decorative Arts
Stunning! in a nameless building that's being used as some sort of community centre that I just happened to wander into
Museum of the Revolution
A random tenement house in Havana
MONDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 2012
So I lied - that wasn't the last post on Cuba. It's still freezing outside and I have to cling to the thought of Cuba to get through this winter. What better way to do that than post my photos from my earlier trip to Havana!
This photo for me captured the essence of Havana. The incongruous mix of past grandeur and present squalor, magnificent mansions turned into utilitarian apartments for the masses - a fascinating mix that seemed to work, both for the camera and for life in Havana.
View of the harbour from our hotel room
Corner cafe where we ate our first lunch in Havana
The main drag in Havana - Paseo del Prado
The beautiful colonnade outside the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
The Opera House
Stunning lobby inside the Opera House - too bad it wasn't open
The Capitoleo - looks familiar? U. S. Capitol? Apparently it's modeled on the Pantheon in Paris. Before the revolution, it was the seat of government but now it is the home of the Cuban Academy of Sciences, and of course major tourist attraction
The Statue of the Republic - apparently the world's third largest indoors statue
Inside the Capitol, hall with inlaid marble floors
The Library
Corridor leading to the Parliament Chambers
Inside the Parliament
Next post: more on Havana
SUNDAY, 5 FEBRUARY 2012
Cuba - Houses and more
We saw some pretty dilapidated houses on the way in to Santiago downtown but we also some outrageously fancy ones in some parts of town. The one below was in an ultra affluent area, rather like embassy row in Havana.
Striking portico on this Holguin house
Not your typical Holguin house
Unusual garage!
Separate entrances for the two floors; it is very common for Cubans to build on top of an existing house, with arrangements between family members, in-laws and others. These seemed to be very typical Cuban houses - obviously relatively well off with lots of iron fencing to keep out the unwanted.
Lots of fruit stands along the highway
A well-thatched roof in the village we stopped by on our way back to the resort
This one seemed to have a roof only over part of the house
Free range turkeys and kids in the village
This one looked like a villa - also in the village! I blew up the photo and noticed the words "Officina C.P.A." on the arch. Is it possible that it's the office of the local accountant? or did C.P.A. stand for something else in Cuba? Too bad I didn't see it when the guide was there.
A half-thatched roof
Ox cart - incongruous but still everywhere
Cultural exchange between the young people on the tour and village youths - they were going to do some salsa dancing together but all it took was a moment's hesitation and the dynamics changed. The guys thought better of it - to the disappointment of this photographer. But it was still fun tagging along...
SUNDAY, 5 FEBRUARY 2012
Cuba - Holguin
Our day trip into Holguin was one of the highlights of our Cuban trip. We went on the tour with a minibusful of twenty somethings - what luck! The energy among the group was palpable and the conversation invigorating. What a difference from our day trip into Santiago with people our age!
Our first stop was at a cigar factory, no pictures allowed but it provided a very interesting glimpse of how cigars were made. I loved the pervading aroma of tobacco leaves - and I don't even smoke!
Outside the cigar factory
Did I mention energy? Awesome youthful energy...!
The 450 steps up to the Loma de la Cruz - these two guys made it to the top before the bus did.
Panoramic view of Holguin city from the top
The Cross at the top to receive pilgrims
The surrounding countryside in full view from the terrace at the top
The bus took us all the way across town for lunch at this restaurant from where we can see the hill with Loma de la Cruz and the surrounding hills from a different angle
The Provincial Library downtown with teens hanging out outside and inside, like all libraries - except this one had no computers, or many books...
Shooting the breeze in the square across from the library
The Casa de la Trova in the Centre of town
Cuban group performing inside the Casa de la Trova
Looking out on the square from inside the Casa de la Trova
Last post on Cuba coming up!
TUESDAY, 31 JANUARY 2012
Cuba: Santiago
I have mixed feelings about Santiago. I was really looking forward to visiting it thinking that it would be another Havana, in fact, even older. Maybe it was the false expectations that made it a bit of a disappointment. There were historical buildings but I was sad to see them in disrepair, even the special museum sites looked like they just got a layer of cheap paint that didn't go on very smoothly. The Hotel Casa Granda which we would have stayed at were we to do an overnight trip looked like it was barely held together, the "roof" over the internal courtyard dilapidated. Yet the view from the rooftop garden was spectacular and the building still retained an aura of past splendour. While Havana was bustling with a sense of renewal, Santiago city centre was filled with people begging and hustling, giving an impression of a city in decay. Maybe it was just a misconception over a short visit of just a couple of hours whereas we were in Havana for three whole days - I hope I'm wrong.
A "classic car" jam viewed from the rooftop garden of the Casa Granda
The Cathedral in the Parque Cespede in the city centre
The gracious outdoor dining room in the Casa Granda
The internal courtyard of the Casa Granda (note the roof)
Rooftop garden - Casa Granda
View of the city from the rooftop garden
This building was boarded up - a sneak view through the hoarding but it doesn't look like any work is being done on it.
Another part of the same building possibly the Casa de Cultura is being used as some sort of display gallery.
Museo de Ambiente Cubano, the oldest residential building in Cuba (wish we had time to visit)
Detail from the attractive front of the Ayuntamiento or town hall, originally the site of the governor's house.
Some street life near the city centre
Museo Emilio Bacardi Moreau (see what I meant about the paint?)
Our favourite - the Casa de la Trova
Duo los Cubanitos invited us in and played for us. We bought their CD - it is extraordinarily good!
SATURDAY, 28 JANUARY 2012
Cuba: El Morro, Santiago
El Morro is a fortress strategically located on a promontory at the entrance to the bay going into Santiago. Built in the 17th century to guard against pirates, it was subsequently used as a prison. It was one of our first stops on the day trip to Santiago and we got there before the crowds so it was great for picture taking. Stunning view of the Caribbean.
Many handsome angles and curves to be found on the grounds...
A chapel on the grounds
Conveyor for the cannon balls!
Some kind of lizard? (interesting tail) - well-camouflaged against the stone
This model gives you an idea of how the castle is situated
Next post: Santiago
SATURDAY, 17 MARCH 2012
Cuba - Varadero
After Havana, we spent 4 days in Varadero staying at the Sirenis la Salina resort. It was just right as there isn't much to see in Varadero. The resort is very nice but while it is very convenient to get into town on the shuttle bus, the town is very small and it is almost there just to cater to tourists. There are two small arts and crafts markets and a few restaurants, an old church and that's about it. But the proximity of Havana certainly made the Varadero resorts popular destinations. Many people made side trips into Havana and also to see the Tropicana show.
The lobby of the Sirenis
The old church in Varadero
Inside the church
Our man in Varadero
This gives an idea of the price of meals for tourists
Another Don Quixote tableau - in the middle of nowhere, beside the road from Varadero beach to the town - the Cubans must love Cervantes
Varadero beach - the catamarans were fun
Cafe in the huge lobby of the Sirenis - great espresso!
We went to the Tropicana show when we were in Havana, but many people took a side trip from the resort to see this - certainly worth seeing but not worth a two hour bus trip.
This is my last post on Cuba for now. It's an amazing country - warm and friendly people, culturally vibrant and a great winter escape. I look forward to returning...
Now that the weather has warmed up, I'm ready to go back to Berlin!
Next post - Potsdam
SATURDAY, 10 MARCH 2012
It seems that I am reluctant to let go of Havana, at least not until the weather warms up in Toronto! So here is "new" Havana - for us, mainly a trip out to Revolution Square and environs, which included the not so new University of Havana, Vedado and then back in Old Havana, the contemporary art in the Palace of Fine Arts.
The iconic image of Che and his "Hasta la victoria siempre" in Revolution Square
Biblioteca Nacional Jose Marti - National Library of Cuba on the south side of the square
Mosaic in the ceiling - lobby of the National Library
Jose Marti Memorial with its tower from where you get a panoramic view of Havana
To the west, the offices of Castro and Miramar beyond
To the north, the University of Havana, Vedado and the Caribbean
From Revolution Square, which is in the middle of nowhere, we did what tourists do when they are on vacation - throw caution to the wind - hopped on a "Bubble Cab" (what?! no seat belts?!) to get us back into town. The University of Havana had some gorgeous buildings, here is just one of the many beautiful portals on campus.
A little unexpected - Don Quixote in Vedado
The beautiful Museum of Decorative Arts in Vedado, the place with the lovely staircase you may have seen in my earlier post Havana Stairs
A no less lovely skylight in the former mansion
The art deco Hotel Nacional at the waterfront
The lobby of the impressive Palace of Fine Arts (no broken windows in this place for sure)
You see Che everywhere in Cuba, this painting in the Palace of Fine Arts is quite special
I love this painting! Wish I haven't lost the name of the artist!
Sunday, 4 MARCH 2012
Havana, with its many gracious historical buildings spanning the centuries, was for me, the star of Cuba. I've only included a few of the highlights below to provide a flavour of this destination, which I will gladly visit again.
Courtyard, complete with peacock, of the Palacios de los Capitanes Generales - former official residence of the governors of Havana, now a museum
The Cathedral of Havana
Inside the Cathedral
The booksellers at the Plaza de Armas reminded me of Paris
Paseo del Prado - the wide leafy pedestrian boulevard that cuts through Old Havana
The art deco Bacardi building and its lobby
The famous Calle Obispo - lots of street life with no traffic
Farmacia Taquechel Museum, an old house turned into a famous pharmacy in the 19th century
Gorgeous restored building in the Plaza Vieja by day
and by night
Typical street in old Havana
Not to miss Chocolate Musuem, not so much for the artifacts but for the smoothest cocoa ever!
Building under restoration
Iglesia de San Francisco by the waterfront
Looks like this might be a coming out event in the church square
Russian Orthodox Cathedral Our Lady of Kazan
Havana at night
Inside the Rum Museum
The famous Buena VistaSocial Club playing in the Rum Museum
SUNDAY, 26 FEBRUARY 2012
Cuba - Havana Stairs
Staircases have always been a fascinating fixation for me when I travel. They were often the first thing I saw upon entering a building and immediately gave me a sense of what the rest of the building would be like. In some instances, I couldn't get into a building and a glimpse of the stairs was a teasing enticement to imagine the possibilities. Here are some from Havana, some spectacularly stunning, others more understated, but all reflect the building in which they were situated.
In a house under renovation in touristy old Havana - think of the potential!
In the Palacios de los Capitanes Generales - former official residence of the governors of Havana, a beautiful colonial building from the late 18th century
This is a nice surprise - not what I had expected to find in the 16th century old fortress Castillo de la Real Fuerza near the Plaza de Armas
Building in old Havana
Another under renovation
Imagine the possibilities!
The Rum Museum restaurant (possibly the stairs to the washroom)
Stairs to the University of Havana Library
One of the faculties at the University
Student Centre University of Havana
The exquisite National Museum of Decorative Arts
Stunning! in a nameless building that's being used as some sort of community centre that I just happened to wander into
Museum of the Revolution
A random tenement house in Havana
MONDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 2012
So I lied - that wasn't the last post on Cuba. It's still freezing outside and I have to cling to the thought of Cuba to get through this winter. What better way to do that than post my photos from my earlier trip to Havana!
This photo for me captured the essence of Havana. The incongruous mix of past grandeur and present squalor, magnificent mansions turned into utilitarian apartments for the masses - a fascinating mix that seemed to work, both for the camera and for life in Havana.
View of the harbour from our hotel room
Corner cafe where we ate our first lunch in Havana
The main drag in Havana - Paseo del Prado
The beautiful colonnade outside the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
The Opera House
Stunning lobby inside the Opera House - too bad it wasn't open
The Capitoleo - looks familiar? U. S. Capitol? Apparently it's modeled on the Pantheon in Paris. Before the revolution, it was the seat of government but now it is the home of the Cuban Academy of Sciences, and of course major tourist attraction
The Statue of the Republic - apparently the world's third largest indoors statue
Inside the Capitol, hall with inlaid marble floors
The Library
Corridor leading to the Parliament Chambers
Inside the Parliament
Next post: more on Havana
SUNDAY, 5 FEBRUARY 2012
Cuba - Houses and more
We saw some pretty dilapidated houses on the way in to Santiago downtown but we also some outrageously fancy ones in some parts of town. The one below was in an ultra affluent area, rather like embassy row in Havana.
Striking portico on this Holguin house
Not your typical Holguin house
Unusual garage!
Separate entrances for the two floors; it is very common for Cubans to build on top of an existing house, with arrangements between family members, in-laws and others. These seemed to be very typical Cuban houses - obviously relatively well off with lots of iron fencing to keep out the unwanted.
Lots of fruit stands along the highway
A well-thatched roof in the village we stopped by on our way back to the resort
This one seemed to have a roof only over part of the house
Free range turkeys and kids in the village
This one looked like a villa - also in the village! I blew up the photo and noticed the words "Officina C.P.A." on the arch. Is it possible that it's the office of the local accountant? or did C.P.A. stand for something else in Cuba? Too bad I didn't see it when the guide was there.
A half-thatched roof
Ox cart - incongruous but still everywhere
Cultural exchange between the young people on the tour and village youths - they were going to do some salsa dancing together but all it took was a moment's hesitation and the dynamics changed. The guys thought better of it - to the disappointment of this photographer. But it was still fun tagging along...
SUNDAY, 5 FEBRUARY 2012
Cuba - Holguin
Our day trip into Holguin was one of the highlights of our Cuban trip. We went on the tour with a minibusful of twenty somethings - what luck! The energy among the group was palpable and the conversation invigorating. What a difference from our day trip into Santiago with people our age!
Our first stop was at a cigar factory, no pictures allowed but it provided a very interesting glimpse of how cigars were made. I loved the pervading aroma of tobacco leaves - and I don't even smoke!
Outside the cigar factory
Did I mention energy? Awesome youthful energy...!
The 450 steps up to the Loma de la Cruz - these two guys made it to the top before the bus did.
Panoramic view of Holguin city from the top
The Cross at the top to receive pilgrims
The surrounding countryside in full view from the terrace at the top
The bus took us all the way across town for lunch at this restaurant from where we can see the hill with Loma de la Cruz and the surrounding hills from a different angle
The Provincial Library downtown with teens hanging out outside and inside, like all libraries - except this one had no computers, or many books...
Shooting the breeze in the square across from the library
The Casa de la Trova in the Centre of town
Cuban group performing inside the Casa de la Trova
Looking out on the square from inside the Casa de la Trova
Last post on Cuba coming up!
SATURDAY, 17 MARCH 2012
Cuba - Varadero
After Havana, we spent 4 days in Varadero staying at the Sirenis la Salina resort. It was just right as there isn't much to see in Varadero. The resort is very nice but while it is very convenient to get into town on the shuttle bus, the town is very small and it is almost there just to cater to tourists. There are two small arts and crafts markets and a few restaurants, an old church and that's about it. But the proximity of Havana certainly made the Varadero resorts popular destinations. Many people made side trips into Havana and also to see the Tropicana show.
The lobby of the Sirenis
The old church in Varadero
Inside the church
Our man in Varadero
This gives an idea of the price of meals for tourists
Another Don Quixote tableau - in the middle of nowhere, beside the road from Varadero beach to the town - the Cubans must love Cervantes
Varadero beach - the catamarans were fun
Cafe in the huge lobby of the Sirenis - great espresso!
We went to the Tropicana show when we were in Havana, but many people took a side trip from the resort to see this - certainly worth seeing but not worth a two hour bus trip.
This is my last post on Cuba for now. It's an amazing country - warm and friendly people, culturally vibrant and a great winter escape. I look forward to returning...
Now that the weather has warmed up, I'm ready to go back to Berlin!
Next post - Potsdam
SATURDAY, 10 MARCH 2012
It seems that I am reluctant to let go of Havana, at least not until the weather warms up in Toronto! So here is "new" Havana - for us, mainly a trip out to Revolution Square and environs, which included the not so new University of Havana, Vedado and then back in Old Havana, the contemporary art in the Palace of Fine Arts.
The iconic image of Che and his "Hasta la victoria siempre" in Revolution Square
Biblioteca Nacional Jose Marti - National Library of Cuba on the south side of the square
Mosaic in the ceiling - lobby of the National Library
Jose Marti Memorial with its tower from where you get a panoramic view of Havana
To the west, the offices of Castro and Miramar beyond
To the north, the University of Havana, Vedado and the Caribbean
From Revolution Square, which is in the middle of nowhere, we did what tourists do when they are on vacation - throw caution to the wind - hopped on a "Bubble Cab" (what?! no seat belts?!) to get us back into town. The University of Havana had some gorgeous buildings, here is just one of the many beautiful portals on campus.
A little unexpected - Don Quixote in Vedado
The beautiful Museum of Decorative Arts in Vedado, the place with the lovely staircase you may have seen in my earlier post Havana Stairs
A no less lovely skylight in the former mansion
The art deco Hotel Nacional at the waterfront
The lobby of the impressive Palace of Fine Arts (no broken windows in this place for sure)
You see Che everywhere in Cuba, this painting in the Palace of Fine Arts is quite special
I love this painting! Wish I haven't lost the name of the artist!
Sunday, 4 MARCH 2012
Havana, with its many gracious historical buildings spanning the centuries, was for me, the star of Cuba. I've only included a few of the highlights below to provide a flavour of this destination, which I will gladly visit again.
Courtyard, complete with peacock, of the Palacios de los Capitanes Generales - former official residence of the governors of Havana, now a museum
The Cathedral of Havana
Inside the Cathedral
The booksellers at the Plaza de Armas reminded me of Paris
Paseo del Prado - the wide leafy pedestrian boulevard that cuts through Old Havana
The art deco Bacardi building and its lobby
The famous Calle Obispo - lots of street life with no traffic
Farmacia Taquechel Museum, an old house turned into a famous pharmacy in the 19th century
Gorgeous restored building in the Plaza Vieja by day
and by night
Typical street in old Havana
Not to miss Chocolate Musuem, not so much for the artifacts but for the smoothest cocoa ever!
Building under restoration
Iglesia de San Francisco by the waterfront
Looks like this might be a coming out event in the church square
Russian Orthodox Cathedral Our Lady of Kazan
Havana at night
Inside the Rum Museum
The famous Buena VistaSocial Club playing in the Rum Museum
SUNDAY, 26 FEBRUARY 2012
Cuba - Havana Stairs
Staircases have always been a fascinating fixation for me when I travel. They were often the first thing I saw upon entering a building and immediately gave me a sense of what the rest of the building would be like. In some instances, I couldn't get into a building and a glimpse of the stairs was a teasing enticement to imagine the possibilities. Here are some from Havana, some spectacularly stunning, others more understated, but all reflect the building in which they were situated.
In a house under renovation in touristy old Havana - think of the potential!
In the Palacios de los Capitanes Generales - former official residence of the governors of Havana, a beautiful colonial building from the late 18th century
This is a nice surprise - not what I had expected to find in the 16th century old fortress Castillo de la Real Fuerza near the Plaza de Armas
Building in old Havana
Another under renovation
Imagine the possibilities!
The Rum Museum restaurant (possibly the stairs to the washroom)
Stairs to the University of Havana Library
One of the faculties at the University
Student Centre University of Havana
The exquisite National Museum of Decorative Arts
Stunning! in a nameless building that's being used as some sort of community centre that I just happened to wander into
Museum of the Revolution
A random tenement house in Havana
MONDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 2012
So I lied - that wasn't the last post on Cuba. It's still freezing outside and I have to cling to the thought of Cuba to get through this winter. What better way to do that than post my photos from my earlier trip to Havana!
This photo for me captured the essence of Havana. The incongruous mix of past grandeur and present squalor, magnificent mansions turned into utilitarian apartments for the masses - a fascinating mix that seemed to work, both for the camera and for life in Havana.
View of the harbour from our hotel room
Corner cafe where we ate our first lunch in Havana
The main drag in Havana - Paseo del Prado
The beautiful colonnade outside the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
The Opera House
Stunning lobby inside the Opera House - too bad it wasn't open
The Capitoleo - looks familiar? U. S. Capitol? Apparently it's modeled on the Pantheon in Paris. Before the revolution, it was the seat of government but now it is the home of the Cuban Academy of Sciences, and of course major tourist attraction
The Statue of the Republic - apparently the world's third largest indoors statue
Inside the Capitol, hall with inlaid marble floors
The Library
Corridor leading to the Parliament Chambers
Inside the Parliament
Next post: more on Havana
SATURDAY, 17 MARCH 2012
Cuba - Varadero
After Havana, we spent 4 days in Varadero staying at the Sirenis la Salina resort. It was just right as there isn't much to see in Varadero. The resort is very nice but while it is very convenient to get into town on the shuttle bus, the town is very small and it is almost there just to cater to tourists. There are two small arts and crafts markets and a few restaurants, an old church and that's about it. But the proximity of Havana certainly made the Varadero resorts popular destinations. Many people made side trips into Havana and also to see the Tropicana show.
The lobby of the Sirenis
The old church in Varadero
Inside the church
Our man in Varadero
This gives an idea of the price of meals for tourists
Another Don Quixote tableau - in the middle of nowhere, beside the road from Varadero beach to the town - the Cubans must love Cervantes
Varadero beach - the catamarans were fun
Cafe in the huge lobby of the Sirenis - great espresso!
We went to the Tropicana show when we were in Havana, but many people took a side trip from the resort to see this - certainly worth seeing but not worth a two hour bus trip.
This is my last post on Cuba for now. It's an amazing country - warm and friendly people, culturally vibrant and a great winter escape. I look forward to returning...
Now that the weather has warmed up, I'm ready to go back to Berlin!
Next post - Potsdam
Cuba - Varadero
After Havana, we spent 4 days in Varadero staying at the Sirenis la Salina resort. It was just right as there isn't much to see in Varadero. The resort is very nice but while it is very convenient to get into town on the shuttle bus, the town is very small and it is almost there just to cater to tourists. There are two small arts and crafts markets and a few restaurants, an old church and that's about it. But the proximity of Havana certainly made the Varadero resorts popular destinations. Many people made side trips into Havana and also to see the Tropicana show.
 |
| The lobby of the Sirenis |
 |
| The old church in Varadero |
 |
| Inside the church |
 |
| Our man in Varadero |
 |
| This gives an idea of the price of meals for tourists |
 |
| Another Don Quixote tableau - in the middle of nowhere, beside the road from Varadero beach to the town - the Cubans must love Cervantes |
 |
| Varadero beach - the catamarans were fun |
 |
| Cafe in the huge lobby of the Sirenis - great espresso! |
 |
| We went to the Tropicana show when we were in Havana, but many people took a side trip from the resort to see this - certainly worth seeing but not worth a two hour bus trip. This is my last post on Cuba for now. It's an amazing country - warm and friendly people, culturally vibrant and a great winter escape. I look forward to returning... Now that the weather has warmed up, I'm ready to go back to Berlin! Next post - Potsdam |
SATURDAY, 10 MARCH 2012
It seems that I am reluctant to let go of Havana, at least not until the weather warms up in Toronto! So here is "new" Havana - for us, mainly a trip out to Revolution Square and environs, which included the not so new University of Havana, Vedado and then back in Old Havana, the contemporary art in the Palace of Fine Arts.  The iconic image of Che and his "Hasta la victoria siempre" in Revolution Square
 From Revolution Square, which is in the middle of nowhere, we did what tourists do when they are on vacation - throw caution to the wind - hopped on a "Bubble Cab" (what?! no seat belts?!) to get us back into town. The University of Havana had some gorgeous buildings, here is just one of the many beautiful portals on campus.
 You see Che everywhere in Cuba, this painting in the Palace of Fine Arts is quite special
 Sunday, 4 MARCH 2012Havana, with its many gracious historical buildings spanning the centuries, was for me, the star of Cuba. I've only included a few of the highlights below to provide a flavour of this destination, which I will gladly visit again.  | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Courtyard, complete with peacock, of the Palacios de los Capitanes Generales - former official residence of the governors of Havana, now a museum |
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The Cathedral of Havana Inside the Cathedral |
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| The booksellers at the Plaza de Armas reminded me of Paris |
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| Paseo del Prado - the wide leafy pedestrian boulevard that cuts through Old Havana |
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The art deco Bacardi building and its lobby  |
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| The famous Calle Obispo - lots of street life with no traffic |
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| Farmacia Taquechel Museum, an old house turned into a famous pharmacy in the 19th century |
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| Gorgeous restored building in the Plaza Vieja by day and by night |
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| Typical street in old Havana |
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| Not to miss Chocolate Musuem, not so much for the artifacts but for the smoothest cocoa ever! |
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| Building under restoration |
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| Iglesia de San Francisco by the waterfront |
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| Looks like this might be a coming out event in the church square |
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Russian Orthodox Cathedral Our Lady of Kazan Havana at night |
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| Inside the Rum Museum |
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| The famous Buena VistaSocial Club playing in the Rum Museum |
SUNDAY, 26 FEBRUARY 2012
Cuba - Havana Stairs
Staircases have always been a fascinating fixation for me when I travel. They were often the first thing I saw upon entering a building and immediately gave me a sense of what the rest of the building would be like. In some instances, I couldn't get into a building and a glimpse of the stairs was a teasing enticement to imagine the possibilities. Here are some from Havana, some spectacularly stunning, others more understated, but all reflect the building in which they were situated.
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| In a house under renovation in touristy old Havana - think of the potential! |
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| In the Palacios de los Capitanes Generales - former official residence of the governors of Havana, a beautiful colonial building from the late 18th century |
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| This is a nice surprise - not what I had expected to find in the 16th century old fortress Castillo de la Real Fuerza near the Plaza de Armas |
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| Building in old Havana |
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| Another under renovation |
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| Imagine the possibilities! |
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| The Rum Museum restaurant (possibly the stairs to the washroom) |
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| Stairs to the University of Havana Library |
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| One of the faculties at the University |
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| Student Centre University of Havana |
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| The exquisite National Museum of Decorative Arts |
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| Stunning! in a nameless building that's being used as some sort of community centre that I just happened to wander into |
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| Museum of the Revolution |
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| A random tenement house in Havana |
MONDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 2012
So I lied - that wasn't the last post on Cuba. It's still freezing outside and I have to cling to the thought of Cuba to get through this winter. What better way to do that than post my photos from my earlier trip to Havana!
This photo for me captured the essence of Havana. The incongruous mix of past grandeur and present squalor, magnificent mansions turned into utilitarian apartments for the masses - a fascinating mix that seemed to work, both for the camera and for life in Havana.
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| View of the harbour from our hotel room |
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| Corner cafe where we ate our first lunch in Havana |
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| The main drag in Havana - Paseo del Prado |
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| The beautiful colonnade outside the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes |
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| The Opera House |
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| Stunning lobby inside the Opera House - too bad it wasn't open |
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| The Capitoleo - looks familiar? U. S. Capitol? Apparently it's modeled on the Pantheon in Paris. Before the revolution, it was the seat of government but now it is the home of the Cuban Academy of Sciences, and of course major tourist attraction |
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| The Statue of the Republic - apparently the world's third largest indoors statue |
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| Inside the Capitol, hall with inlaid marble floors |
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| The Library |
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| Corridor leading to the Parliament Chambers |
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| Inside the Parliament |
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SUNDAY, 5 FEBRUARY 2012
Cuba - Houses and more
We saw some pretty dilapidated houses on the way in to Santiago downtown but we also some outrageously fancy ones in some parts of town. The one below was in an ultra affluent area, rather like embassy row in Havana.
Striking portico on this Holguin house
Striking portico on this Holguin house
Not your typical Holguin house |
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| Unusual garage! |
Separate entrances for the two floors; it is very common for Cubans to build on top of an existing house, with arrangements between family members, in-laws and others. These seemed to be very typical Cuban houses - obviously relatively well off with lots of iron fencing to keep out the unwanted. |
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| Lots of fruit stands along the highway |
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| A well-thatched roof in the village we stopped by on our way back to the resort |
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| This one seemed to have a roof only over part of the house |
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| Free range turkeys and kids in the village |
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| This one looked like a villa - also in the village! I blew up the photo and noticed the words "Officina C.P.A." on the arch. Is it possible that it's the office of the local accountant? or did C.P.A. stand for something else in Cuba? Too bad I didn't see it when the guide was there. |
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| A half-thatched roof |
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| Ox cart - incongruous but still everywhere |
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Cultural exchange between the young people on the tour and village youths - they were going to do some salsa dancing together but all it took was a moment's hesitation and the dynamics changed. The guys thought better of it - to the disappointment of this photographer. But it was still fun tagging along... |
Cuba - Holguin
Our day trip into Holguin was one of the highlights of our Cuban trip. We went on the tour with a minibusful of twenty somethings - what luck! The energy among the group was palpable and the conversation invigorating. What a difference from our day trip into Santiago with people our age!
Our first stop was at a cigar factory, no pictures allowed but it provided a very interesting glimpse of how cigars were made. I loved the pervading aroma of tobacco leaves - and I don't even smoke!
Did I mention energy? Awesome youthful energy...!
Our first stop was at a cigar factory, no pictures allowed but it provided a very interesting glimpse of how cigars were made. I loved the pervading aroma of tobacco leaves - and I don't even smoke!
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| Outside the cigar factory |
Did I mention energy? Awesome youthful energy...!
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| The 450 steps up to the Loma de la Cruz - these two guys made it to the top before the bus did. |
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| Panoramic view of Holguin city from the top |
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| The Cross at the top to receive pilgrims |
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The surrounding countryside in full view from the terrace at the top |
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| The bus took us all the way across town for lunch at this restaurant from where we can see the hill with Loma de la Cruz and the surrounding hills from a different angle |
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| The Provincial Library downtown with teens hanging out outside and inside, like all libraries - except this one had no computers, or many books... |
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| Shooting the breeze in the square across from the library |
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| The Casa de la Trova in the Centre of town |
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Cuban group performing inside the Casa de la Trova |
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| Looking out on the square from inside the Casa de la Trova |
Last post on Cuba coming up!
TUESDAY, 31 JANUARY 2012
Cuba: Santiago
I have mixed feelings about Santiago. I was really looking forward to visiting it thinking that it would be another Havana, in fact, even older. Maybe it was the false expectations that made it a bit of a disappointment. There were historical buildings but I was sad to see them in disrepair, even the special museum sites looked like they just got a layer of cheap paint that didn't go on very smoothly. The Hotel Casa Granda which we would have stayed at were we to do an overnight trip looked like it was barely held together, the "roof" over the internal courtyard dilapidated. Yet the view from the rooftop garden was spectacular and the building still retained an aura of past splendour. While Havana was bustling with a sense of renewal, Santiago city centre was filled with people begging and hustling, giving an impression of a city in decay. Maybe it was just a misconception over a short visit of just a couple of hours whereas we were in Havana for three whole days - I hope I'm wrong.
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| A "classic car" jam viewed from the rooftop garden of the Casa Granda |
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| The Cathedral in the Parque Cespede in the city centre |
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The gracious outdoor dining room in the Casa Granda |
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| The internal courtyard of the Casa Granda (note the roof) |
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| Rooftop garden - Casa Granda |
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| View of the city from the rooftop garden |
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| This building was boarded up - a sneak view through the hoarding but it doesn't look like any work is being done on it. |
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| Another part of the same building possibly the Casa de Cultura is being used as some sort of display gallery. |
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| Museo de Ambiente Cubano, the oldest residential building in Cuba (wish we had time to visit) |
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| Detail from the attractive front of the Ayuntamiento or town hall, originally the site of the governor's house. |
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| Some street life near the city centre |
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| Museo Emilio Bacardi Moreau (see what I meant about the paint?) |
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| Our favourite - the Casa de la Trova |
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| Duo los Cubanitos invited us in and played for us. We bought their CD - it is extraordinarily good! |
Cuba: El Morro, Santiago
El Morro is a fortress strategically located on a promontory at the entrance to the bay going into Santiago. Built in the 17th century to guard against pirates, it was subsequently used as a prison. It was one of our first stops on the day trip to Santiago and we got there before the crowds so it was great for picture taking. Stunning view of the Caribbean.
Many handsome angles and curves to be found on the grounds...
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| A chapel on the grounds |
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| Conveyor for the cannon balls! |
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| Some kind of lizard? (interesting tail) - well-camouflaged against the stone |
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| This model gives you an idea of how the castle is situated |
Next post: Santiago
THURSDAY, 26 JANUARY 2012
Cuba - Shopping
We dropped by this store on the way to Holguin. This would be typical general store in rural areas, open 7 to 11 am, 2 to 5 pm, leaving plenty of time for lunch and siesta. Take a look inside, merchandise is in pesos (not the convertible kind). A baseball costs 60 pesos, about the equivalent of $2.50 Canadian, quite expensive in Cuban terms. A young man on our bus bought a baseball and on the way back, gave it to a boy going home after school.
One happy kid!
This is the shopping street in Holguin, which seems to be a relatively well-off town. Department stores are bigger and there are even specialty stores.
Where tourists shop...
The butcher
The magician...?
....pulling out one rabbit after another - it's hard to decide which one to take home!
Granizado looks like it might be slush - probably welcome relief on a hot sunny day, but no one had the nerve to try it!
Cuba - Shopping
We dropped by this store on the way to Holguin. This would be typical general store in rural areas, open 7 to 11 am, 2 to 5 pm, leaving plenty of time for lunch and siesta. Take a look inside, merchandise is in pesos (not the convertible kind). A baseball costs 60 pesos, about the equivalent of $2.50 Canadian, quite expensive in Cuban terms. A young man on our bus bought a baseball and on the way back, gave it to a boy going home after school.
Where tourists shop...
The butcher
The magician...?
....pulling out one rabbit after another - it's hard to decide which one to take home!
Granizado looks like it might be slush - probably welcome relief on a hot sunny day, but no one had the nerve to try it!
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| One happy kid! |
This is the shopping street in Holguin, which seems to be a relatively well-off town. Department stores are bigger and there are even specialty stores.
Where tourists shop...
The butcher
The magician...?
....pulling out one rabbit after another - it's hard to decide which one to take home!
Granizado looks like it might be slush - probably welcome relief on a hot sunny day, but no one had the nerve to try it!
Next post: El Morro in Santiago
SUNDAY, 22 JANUARY 2012
Cuba: "Coming out"
On our day trip to Holguin, we were given an hour to wander around the town centre. The Iglesia de San Jose was a destination a few blocks from the centre. Unfortunately, it was closed and we only got a glimpse of the baroque interior through the locked gates. But we came across an unexpected find in the plaza in front of the church - a 15 year old debutante's "coming out" ritual. The public part of this started with her laying a bouquet at the memorial to dead revolutionary patriots (the irony of it!) in front of the church and then she was put in an open car and shown off to the whole town. This seemed to be such an incongruous (not to mention capitalistic) ritual in the Cuban setting, that it caught us by surprise and on the way back on the minibus, I brought this up as a question about its compatibility with the rest of Cuban society. The youthful Canadian tourists on the bus held various viewpoints about this, sparking a debate about communism and socialism - an unexpected bonus for us on what would have been just another touristy day trip in Cuba!
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| Iglesia San Jose |
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| A glimpse of the interior through the gate |
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| Here comes the debutante supported by parents |
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| A carefully rehearsed and recorded offering of the bouquet at the memorial to patriots who died during the revolution |
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| Walking carefully on the uneven stones |
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| The exchange of glances between the debutante and the worker comrades |
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| Poised and confident - obviously well-schooled |
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| The parade through the streets |
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| Where debutantes shop... |
SATURDAY, 21 JANUARY 2012
Cuba: the resort
Since there is so much interest in the Sirenis Playa Turquesa on the Trip Advisor site (I was told over 3,400 people read my review in the past week), I've decided to post some photos of the resort to give people a better idea.
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| The entrance lobby - this is not what you see when you first enter, I just like the light from this angle |
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| View from the lobby - shop to the left, theatre and snack bar to the right, the pools straight ahead |
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| This is what most units look like - two floors, 4 - 8 units in one building |
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| The bed was made up everyday with a different pattern using the blankets |
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| Every unit has a walkout balcony |
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| This is the view from the top level - these are kiddie pools |
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| Second level - we really liked the shade option on the right when we've had enough sun |
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| We called this our Chichen itza (the mayan pyramid in Mexico) because of the steep climb to the higher level pool |
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| Nice archway that takes you to a gazebo outside the snack bar that is open 24 hours |
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| A shaded descent to the lower level pool, the main one where the bar is, and closest to the beach |
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| The beach |
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| Nice fine sand on the beach - catamaran rides available |
We had a great time!
THURSDAY, 19 JANUARY 2012
Or not - gosh, it's hard work!
Transportation seemed to be a big preoccupation in Cuba - partly because of its scarcity. But there are many options. You can go by horse cabby
or by donkey
by vintage car
or by vintage truck.
More than one tour guide described this mode of transportation as how the government ensure there is transport for everyone. An official wearing top to bottom yellow uniform would be stationed at major intersections and all vehicles with yellow licences are legally required to stop and pick up extra passengers. And it looked like a lot extra...
Rain or shine
To market, to market...
More about this beauty in the next post...
TUESDAY, 17 JANUARY 2012
I can imagine Berlin being as cold as Toronto in January, so it's time to take a winter break and visit Cuba to warm up. We visited a resort near Holguin in north-east Cuba last week. It was everything we expected - hot and sunny, blue skies and turquoise seas, palm trees and fragrant flowers. But we also took some time to get a glimpse of Cuban life. We took a day trip to Santiago. One of the highlights we visited was a farmer's market near the Antonio Maceo monument.
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| Antonio Maceo Monument in Santiago - the farmer's market was just across the street from this impressive monument with its 23 machetes |
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| Locals seem to really enjoy shopping here |
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| This man used what looked like a machete to slid off the bananas from their stalks in one sweeping motion |
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| Enough bananas for you?! |
To give you an idea of prices - these are in Cuban pesos, the non-convertible kind
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| Family fun! |
More interesting glimpses of life in Cuba in the next post - transportation in Cuba!
