Cuba may be poor and lack so many resources, but it is a beautiful island.

We spend an hour in the morning walking through the national park ” El Cubano” in the mountains of Escambay, just a thirty minute drive outside Trinidad.  The area is lush with a diversity of plants, birds and animals.  We had a guide who first attempted to narrate us through the biodiversity of the area, but we were rebelling that morning and were focused on reaching the end of the trail where a waterfall awaited.

Of course it was hot. Of course it was humid. It’s a tropical island.

The walk was up and down easy hills and we were all drenched in sweat when we reached our destination. The waterfall cascaded into a clear pool of cold water. Most of our group stripped to our swim suits and jumped in.

Our pace one tour was slowing down.  We only had another day together and by now, clusters of friends had formed: the under 40 New Yorkers; the two families bonded withe  50-something couple from New York; the 60-something couple from Oregon protecting the married mom traveling alone;the two single men from California each kept to themselves, but not awkwardly so.  The group worked well together during our nearly two weeks together.

We asked question of our guide and office other about Cuban politics and life; American politics; each others jobs… not surprisingly a high percentage of the group worked in non-profits or higher education.  We were balanced by our New Yorkers working in advertising, law and “investments.”

Dinner was at Playa Ancon.

Our bus stopped at what seemed to be someone’s house.  It was our caterer and our musicians for our evening on the beach.  The beach was almost vacant and what few people  were there left soon after our arrival because a storm was blowing our way. We thought for sure were we about to be hit with a tropical storm,  but, Dady, our lead guide said, “Let’s see…”

Everyone left the beach except us.

We were rewarded for our faith.

The few raindrops didn’t even dampen our clothes.

The sunset performed for us along with our musicians. Fresh fish, veggies and rum…an abundance of rum along with a few Cuban cigars.

Celebration in the joy of Cuba’s beauty.