Off at 9 this morning heading for Camaguey inland through the Valley of the Sugar Mills (world heritage) and quite bit of varied countryside to Sancti Spiritus then down to Camaguey. We were going to tour the sugar mill valley while in Trinidad but the steam train was not working and we didn't get around to organizing other transport - wish I had seeing it now as we drive through - maybe next time ?!?! In Camaguey by 2pm, old hotel with basic but adequate room. ...

This country continues to amaze us and everyday brings more highlights. Today we slept in and were late for breakfast but no big deal because things happen when they happen in Cuba. Walked the city for a couple of hours back to main sights and into residential backstreets. Daily life goes on around us and we share the streets with horse and cart, children off to school, taxi carts, old motor bikes with sidecars etc and very few cars. Every corner turned brings a...

Hiking this morning in the mountains just out of Trinidad. After crossing the creek (Virginia and everyone else on the suspension bridge - Alan using sticks across the rocks) the walk was through lush green tropical growth and we saw lots of different birds, geckos, (a snake!) and cattle. Ended at a waterfall and cave where Virginia and 2 others went for a swim. Overall 2.5 hours in beautiful, serene landscape with nothing but the sound of birds and the running s...

Cold shower this morning so will be good if the Casas improve from here - but lovely family, good nights sleep and hearty brekkie so all's good. Through rural villages and farming land to Che Guevara memorial in Santa Clara - Cuban hero from the revolution so the most important site in Cuba for Cubans - interesting history but nfp here (discuss at home) Onto Trinidad and walking tour - cobblestone streets, colorful restored buildings, friendly people, lots of b...

Tour group meeting this morning with Osvaldo then off in a new tour bus (seats 20 but only 7 of us and very comfortable). We have the same bus, driver and guide all trip. Group easy to get on with - 4 Aussies, 1 Malaysian and 2 US Bay of Pigs first stop (sight of failed US organized invasion to try to overthrow Castro in 1961). Interesting museum re the battle and the Cuban revolution and amazing blue water beach for swimming, diving and snorkeling but very rock...