Stepped off the plane and were thrilled to bits to see that our bikes arrived intact. Nevermind that in Toronto they made us unpack the boxes and take everything (everything!!) out of the box for inspection. That’s why they say to be at the airport three hours early. Our pre-arranged taxi driver found us and delivered us to our Casa Particular in Holguin where Oscar our host made us feel very welcome. Oscar we learned, had been working as an accomplished lawyer but now chooses to spend his time operating his Casa.
Randy re-assembled the bikes on a lovely outdoor balcony overlooking what appears to be a park where we saw happy Cuban kids skateboarding (sans cellphones) and hanging out just having fun. Overlooking the balcony we see the road users, and it’s definitely not all cars: an equal mix of bicycles, horses pulling buggies, rickety buses, motorcycles, pedestrians, and some cars.
The Myth of Cuban Food: Busted!!
Yep, The bland food myth–busted! It may be too soon to call it, but based on our first (and only meal today) in an authentic Cuban restaurant we are smiling ear to ear having each ordered up some mystery chicken and a side of rice. (Chicken = $4 and rice = $1). Lesson learned here: Cuban portions are huge. Chicken arrived all sizzly and inviting, and the rice….they know how to make rice! Happy, happy, Randy and Anita.
Cuban culture, sans-cellphone style
The bad news is that cell service is far too expensive for Cuban citizens to be addicted to their cell phones. The good news is that in the town square on Saturday night you see families socializing! Kids roller skating, people talking, sitting on benches everywhere just being happy and enjoying life. Absent are cell phones. There is a carnival type atmosphere.
Conclusion: We Love Cuba!
(Apparently, the internet here is very very slow. Until we get a faster connection, photos are darn near impossible to upload!)
Our taxi that met us at the airport.
Randy gets busy re-assembling the bicycles for the journey.
Across the street there appears to be a celebration happening.
People still use pay phones in Cuba.
Aviles restaurant in Holguin (recommended by Oscar)
The interior of Aviles restaurant.
The exterior of Casa Oscar, a 1930s style architectural style.
Fantastic!!!!! So jealous! enjoy every minute ( as I know you will!)
We’ll try our darndest, Tara! 😉
We hope you have a wonderful journey – look forward to following your adventures! Brenda and Wayne
Just amazing! Sounds great so far!
And absent cell phones…..even mooore amazing ☺️
I remember being at that town square on a Friday night
Glad you arrived safely and enjoyed a good meal
Looks like you’re off to a good start and I’m glad that the food question has been resolved – you won’t starve, Anita! Your dinner looks delicious! Great photos.