As it always goes, my final full day in Cuba arrived in the blink of an eye. After a full day of moseying through the city, Mariska and I decided to hit the daquiri bar with The Russian as a final hurrah. He had been kind enough to charge my phone in his hotel room, … More Dirty Money–Cuba Part 5
The story goes that Hemingway went to Cuba for a fishing trip, but then loved it so much that he moved there years later. He ended up living in Cuba for 20 years. Needless to say, there are plenty of Hemingway sites to check out on a trip to Cuba which I was determined to … More Hemingway’s Havana–Cuba Part 4
Mariska and I woke up and were ready for breakfast at 9am sharp. Gerardo’s wife made us a breakfast spread that left no room for hunger: rolls, eggs, vegetables, a fruit platter, smoothies, coffee and tea. We sat at the table, stuffed, when Gerardo came in and sat down, making sure we had a good … More Blondie Abroad–Cuba Part 3
We drove down the dusty Havana back roads and arrived at our casa particular. It’s basically a home stay situation where you occupy a room in the residence of a local Cuban rather than a hotel. It’s cheaper, it’s more authentic, and I felt good supporting local people rather than a hotel. Our host, Gerardo, … More BYOTP–Cuba Part 2
Please note, I’m starting at the very beginning of my Havana trip, but my Cuba adventure series will be painted in several parts. Bear with me as I have lots of tales to tell, but plan on keeping them short and approachable. I was freaking out days before my Havana adventure, as I always do … More Flop Sweat–Cuba Part 1
It hit me yesterday morning when I woke up in a cold sweat at 2am that I was going to Cuba in 3 days and wanted to spill my cookies immediately. This happens before every trip I take. I tend to freak out and convince myself I’ve made a huge mistake every single time I … More Spilling My Cookies
I have been applying to work for Rick Steves since I was in college, long before Seattle was ever a seedling of an idea in my brain. Needless to say, I have been shut down on numerous occasions. Yet Rick Steves’ books are the Bible of travel guides in my mind. As someone who prioritizes … More The Standby Camaraderie
Transient Transplant 