Cuban Vacation – Part II

After the show, Tobias and I set up a giant chessboard for a challenging game. My goal was to get the dark queen of the night. However, she would be my downfall. Although I reached checkmate, it would be illegal. I ended up losing in the end to the dark queen. Great match from a worthy competitor.

One would be shocked to know that I went to the gym before breakfast while on vacation. It has been long overdue actually. I enjoy running on the treadmill, gliding on the elliptical and cycling the stationary bike. It was quite a workout. The combination of my activity and the heat had me left drenched by the end. I recommend some exercise, as it is a great way to start the day of energetically.

Afterwards I would enjoy an oversized breakfast with a complimentary beer. It was time to hit up the beach. I read more of my Stephen Booth Detective novel. My colleague treated himself to a sports massage. After a morning at the beach, I ended up re-visiting the pool and enjoying the sponge floaters.

Sadly, all good times all-inclusive must end. We opted for a taxi to catch the afternoon Viazul bus to Trinidad as noted by the Tourist Office at the hotel. However, the only bus was at 8:15 AM. The employees found us a route at a premium rate of 60 C.U.C for both to Santo Spiritus via Transtor.

It added to the travel adventure, as we realized we were not taking the expressway. We stopped numerous times to exchange wares, pick up some locals and even stop to check on some motorists that were having car troubles. At Santo Spiritus we got a “chico” (driver) for 30 C.U.C. to take us the remaining 71 km to Trinidad.  According to the original bus station at Varadero it would only be 30 km and 10 C.U.C.. Nevertheless, it was well worth the cost as we rode the distance in a Cruella DeVille 1940’s or 50’s Chevrolet automobile.

The Road We Came….

We arrived at 174, the Casa populaire of Dr. Suerez and Addys. Great house! Best laughter from this women who is an amazing cook. After getting a view from the Terrace, we decided to have dinner as the music from Casa de La Musica played in the backdrop. Addys whipped up an excellent jumbo shrimp dish. I also enjoyed the delicious vanilla ice-cream with sprinkles. We decided to venture into the streets and find our way to the outdoor concert. It was quite impressive to hear and watch the performance of the musicians and dancers.

Stay tuned for Part III of my Cuban Vacation…

Live Rural NL

-Christopher C. Mitchelmore