Varadero, Cuba was where I rang in the new year. Technically, I watched a movie in my room at our resort instead of partying, but that's beside the point. I was in a warm climate with people I love, taking a break after a busy year of work and other activities.
My youngest daughter, Dani, had invited me to travel to Cuba with her and her family (who don't share family photos on social media). I was delighted to accept the invitation. I've travelled a lot over the years, but I'd yet to go to Cuba. I had heard responses from other travellers who either loved Cuba or really disliked it, with not much in between. We, fortunately, chose a great resort and had a lovely time at the Iberostar Bella Costa. Our resort had friendly staff, comfortable and clean rooms, a great pool and beach, local musicians entertaining us at mealtime and in the evenings, and a variety of foods for every meal. The New Year's Eve buffet was exceptional!
Here's a glimpse at my Cuba vacation - in photos...
The beach in front of the Iberostar Bella Costa, Varadero - Deana J Driver photos
A wall of photos inside the Bella Costa resort, Cuba
Wall art
Cuban musicians entertained us at mealtime
More local music, including some Santana faves
Countryside on the way to Havana
Banyan (ficus) tree in Havana
I met a friend in Havana who loves books as much as I do! Too bad I didn't bring a sampling of my own books for him to read.
I did not understand this statue in Havana of the nude woman riding a chicken. Turns out I'm not alone in wondering. The artist has not talked about its meaning, but there are some interesting theories (see https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/viaje-fantastico).
A town square, Havana
Old cars in Havana are maintained with whatever parts can be found from washing machines, etc. that might work.
Revolution Square in Havana
This was American novelist Ernest Hemingway's favourite bar in Havana. Many famous people stop by, and some who are not as famous too.
They invented the Daiquiri here at El Floridita.
This pelican landed near us before taking off on another flight and dive for food.
Ocean swimming was not allowed on days when the tide brought Portuguese man o' war animals onto the beach. It's technically not a jellyfish, and its sting and tentacles will leave large welts and worse.
A full sand dollar washed up on the beach beside some coral.
We joked that this sand sculpture we saw on the beach was the Cuban version of our Saskatchewan snowmen.
Hibiscus flowers
A New Year's Eve tree made from wine bottles
The Royal Palm tree is Cuba's national tree and one of my faves.
The New Year's Eve buffet at the Bella Costa had many wonderful food sculptures.
The cold meats section alone went on and on.
The bread selection was amazing and I didn't even take a photo of the hot foods!
When the delicious chocolate cake clock strikes midnight... (in my belly!) This was only one of the many scrumptious desserts offered on New Year's Eve.
We walked on the beach at least twice a day, enjoying the sun and sand in Varadero, Cuba.
The sun setting on the last night of our great vacation.
If you choose to visit Cuba, I recommend that you book your trip through a travel agent (we booked through CAA and were pleased we did). Check the online reviews of the various resorts and locations, and pay a little extra, if you can afford it, for a higher-rated resort. Read about the country and its history and amenities, as you should for all of your travel destinations. Before you go to Cuba, pack some of your favourite Canadian snack foods in your suitcase along with crackers, peanut butter and jam (for those who have specific diets). We were glad we did. Happy travelling!
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