Each month we highlight a place of interest around the globe that we consider as unique as Borgo di Vagli. The tips are selected as they either show respect for the environment, nature, and architectural beauty or are deeply indigenous to their individual origin. This month we have to thank our marvelous Resort Director Stefania Civitelli for sharing her experiences about her trip to Cuba with us.
"My trip to Cuba was a very much a last minute decision and, as such, I did not want to put too much expectation on this journey. I decided that I was going to relax at the beach and perhaps take a few trips to discover some of the natural beauty spots that the island is renowned for… As soon as I landed in L'Avana I met friendly people, and I immediately realised that this trip was going to take a completely different turn…
The 3 hour drive to the village that I had booked, was in an old green Cuban car from the 60s, with its old leather seats and a strong smell of gasoline… laughter started to fill the vehicle as soon as we left the airport and after a few stops for the most delicious mojitos and piña coladas, I knew my heart was going to get hooked to this country…The sea was magnificent as expected, but what I did not know about was…the people! A warm, happy smile can be found everywhere at anytime, an unusual positivity in a country where little freedom is allowed and where the average monthly wages would pay for a simple dinner for one of us here in Tuscany …
The days started to pass quickly and together with a couple of well worth while nights out in the historical city of L'Avana, I decided to venture down to the town of Trinidad, a 6 hour journey through the tobacco plantations, the cattle ranches and the Zapata park where crocodiles can often be spotted lying in the swamps…Once in town, I had the feeling that time had stopped about a century ago…: the cobblestone streets, the horse carriages, the colorful houses and the people waving from the windows inviting me to stay with them at their Casa Particular. The casas particulares are the most common accommodation in Cuba and I must say a wonderful option to mix with the locals… at a little cost they offer accommodation (a bed) and an experience that will last a lifetime!
The entire family gather to welcome you, livestock included, and their curiosity about the world outside Cuba is immediate... travelling for them is unimaginable and very few Cubans leave the island but it seems to be less painful for them when imagining our world far away.
Before you know, a bit like at I'cche c'e' c'e', the ladies start to emerge from the kitchen with dishes full of rice, black beans and a steaming tray of lobster a' la cubana! Everybody eats together and continues to share stories until the decibels reach the highest pitches and we all head out in the streets to take part of the Semana de la Cultura celebrations, that are essentially salsa as well as the newly famous reggeaton music being played in the streets and everyone dancing away, like there's no tomorrow! Bueno, as they say, the nights in Cuba continued to be filled with music and laughter and I already look forward to my next visit to this beautiful Caribbean island…hasta la proxima!"
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