You'd have thought my tale to Cuba would be over once I boarded my flight but there was more to come. After waiting for the lone water truck in the airport to fill all the flights we then found out a passenger wasnt on the flight so their luggage had to be removed.Our flight had been delayed arriving due to bad weather in Toronto but after all the delays on the tarmac we eventually did take off.With nothing for purchase at the airport I was looking forward to buy...

One of the most popular destinations for Canadians to head for their winter vacations is Cuba. In the 20 odd years I've lived here the thought of going for one week to an all inclusive resort and just lying on the beach had no appeal for me while I was more interested in history, architecture, and culture.With the US sanctions regime against Cuba Canadian tourists were always sought after with bus and tv ads making this one of the most popular winter destinations...

This Sept was time to decide where to go for my birthday. I'd already had a busy year with trips this year to Quebec City Carnivale in Feb, Yucatan Mexico in Mar, and Vancouver in June.One place I'd always wanted to go was Iran due to the rich Persian history, architecture, cuisine, and music. Now was a good time to go as my passport renews next year, so I can go now, renew my passport, and get rid of the stamps so I wont get stopped and questioned all the time a...

This Sunday was the annual Heart and Stroke Foundation Ride for Heart along the Gardiner and DVP highways. There are 25/50/75km options. I have participated since 2005 six times in the 50km option.Last year I did register and fund raise but it was raining heavy on event day so I had to miss out. People did comment when I fundraised again this year if I was going or not!The start line is at the CNE. Since I live along the Gardiner by High Park I tried to just go o...

This weekend was the annual Doors Open Toronto event when many public buildings not normally open to the public allow visitors, or museums waive entrance fees. Having attended for several years (see links at end) I decided this year to focus away from the cluster of buildings downtown to some of the locations further out that I'm not normally able to visit.First was Lambton House on Old Dundas St, just west of Jane St on Dundas St West. I sometimes bike past here...