Santiago de Cuba

The second largest city in Cuba after Havana, Santiago de Cuba is a  cultural capital lying on the Santiago de Cuba Bay with the towering Sierra Maestra Mountains providing the perfect backdrop. As we sailed in this morning the skies were gray and the rain was pouring down. 

Our tour left early this morning- early for us- so we got breakfast at 7:15. Because of the rain we couldn't use our outdoor balcony dining. Finding enough empty space for the plates and cups was a challenge. 

Sailing in the Rain

Basilica de Cobre

At the time we were to depart for the buses the rain was pouring so we decided to be lazy and stay aboard. The rest of the crowd had a terrific time seeing the El Morro Castle, the Santa Infigenia Cemetery where Fidel Castro is buried, San Juan Hill, and the El Cobre Basilica. They also heard a Steel Drum performance. 

El Morro Castle

El Morro Castle was designed in 1637 by the Italian military engineer who also built El Morro Castle and La Punta Castle in Havana, its main purpose was to protect the city against pirates. Construction of the fort began in 1638 and continued intermittently for 42 years. During this time, the fort withstood attacks by the English and French as well as several earthquakes. Over the years it has served as a fortress as well as a military prison and today a UNESCO world heritage site where many come to learn of the Castle’s rich history.

We ate lunch with two other couples- one from New York and the other from Deland, Florida. At the end of the meal we slid into politics and were amazed that we all thought exactly alike about the state of the government and the country under the current administration. Was refreshing. The couple from NY had lived in Miami years ago and they remembered Alex Sink fondly since she helped him set up an art school. You never know the connections you will make as you travel.

The city’s close proximity to Jamaica and other Caribbean isles has created an extremely diverse metropolis unlike any other Cuban city. Experience the blend of Cuban and Caribbean culture reflected in the city’s art, architecture, music, and cuisine. This evening the group joined a tour that went to Trova House and heard some wonderful Cuban music. The tour included two drinks so everyone was having fun listening and even some dancing.

Our cabin steward, Mel, is doing a wonderful job since overtime she comes our cabin is a big mess since we have become the wonderful gathering spot for our little group. So fun to sit and chat and share impressions of this time together.