Upon returning to Parque Central the following day, Jim and I were mesmerized for over two hours by the activities and relationships around us: A group of men engaged in an dynamic and heated conversation - one man, hands held behind his back listening intently; another, arms crossed in front not quite agreeing; an ancient man leaning his ear in toward the speaker. The one monopolizing the talking is stabbing the air emphatically making definitive points, words f...

Havana is one worn down yet equally vibrant city! It has a magic that immediately soaks into your pores. And what a contrast from the paradise beach-bubble of all-inclusive resort life of Varadero to the bustling city with exhaust fumes to rival the streets of New Delhi. Although there are far fewer - and far more unique - cars on the road than in Canadian cities, they are making a lot noise and emitting lung-choking exhaust. Almost no car is newer than the 1980s...