Captivating Cuba

Hi there. I'm not sure what happened to November, but it seems to have flown past and people are starting to discuss how to celebrate New Year. I was trying to think of my favourite New Year's celebration so far and I wanted to tell you about it in case you're still trying to decide where you're going to welcome 2010.

The best New Years I ever celebrated was when I was in Cuba on my holidays. To Cuba, the first of January is a particularly significant date, as it is not just New Years Day, but also the date on which the Cubans officially celebrate Liberation Day. This celebration marks the triumph of the Cuban revolution, ended by Fidel Castro and his troops as they drove out Batista's dictatorship. With two reasons to celebrate, it is not surprising that Cubans tend to see in New Year with a bang.

Having been told that Havana was where the most spectacular celebrations were held, I made sure I was back in the capital for the 31st December. I planned to see in the New Year on the seafront, where people gather in their hundreds to watch the magnificent fireworks display that is held each year. The fireworks certainly did not disappoint, although in the end I was not amongst those watching from the seafront.

Picture Flickr - sonewfangled

For those 300 people lucky enough to get tickets, Cathedral Square is the real place to start the New Year and I was fortunate enough to know somebody with a spare. The square is a must see for anyone going on their holidays to Cuba, as it is full of life and festivity all year round. However, the atmosphere on New Year's Eve is unmatched on any other day of the year. The square is closed to the public whilst those with tickets enjoy a gala dinner, seated at tables that are laid out by the only restaurant located in the square, El Patio. Drinks flow all night long, with waiters and waitresses topping you up with wine, beer, champagne and especially with the famous Habana club rum, as you enjoy a combination of Cuba's finest cuisines.

Picture Flickr - Lauras512

But there is more to New Year in Cathedral Square than just the food and drink. A stage is built towards the end of December, and on New Year's Eve this stage becomes the platform for a truly magnificent display of Cuban music and dance. Watch the variety show, and join the crowds as they dance along to some of the most impressive musicians and dancers that Cuba has to offer. This truly is one of the most spectacular performances you are likely to see, and once it has finished, the fireworks are the perfect finale.

New Year at Cathedral Square is an impressive celebration, but if you're unable to get tickets, there are plenty of other restaurants around Havana that will be hosting similar festivities. There's no doubt that the Cubans know how to celebrate New Year better than anybody else, and if you're in the midst of planning your holidays to Cuba, I'd advise you to make sure you're in Havana at the turning of the year.

Now, who's going to buy me a ticket to Cuba for Christmas?
Jasna

posted at: 12:02 | path: /jasna | permanent link to this entry | 5 comments

Hello! I can't believe its November already! This year seems to have flown past, and it only seems like yesterday that I was saying 'I can't believe it's November already!' ... last year!

Anyhow, it got me thinking about this time a few years ago when I was in Havana myself for a much-needed break. It is my favourite time of the year in Cuba. Hotels and business are quieter than summer and the island has a different feel to it. But in November there is one amazing event that turns Havana into a massive race track and brings people from all over the world. It's called the Marabana and it's Cuba's answer to the New York Marathon! It actually finishes off a week of athletic events that take place in Havana, but the race itself, held on the third Sunday of every November for the past twenty years, is the main attraction.

Picture flickr - Josiah McKenzie

Over a thousand people from all different levels compete every year. Some are professional international runners, but some are just are normal everyday people, who come from all over Cuba to take part. It has been said that it's not the destination, but the journey itself which makes the Marabana so special. I have to agree. There is so much camaraderie between the runners and even language is not a barrier. There are also a lot of handicapped competitors who take part, and it is a really wonderful sight to see the able-bodied helping them out too. Anyhow, as I was there at the right time a few years ago, I decided it would be an amazing thing to do and so me and my friends signed up for the race!

It honestly has to be one of the best experiences I have ever had. There is such a buzz in the city as everyone gathers to begin. The race starts and finishes in the Old Town but you don't have to complete the full 21km as there is also a half marathon route. The circuit takes you through the streets of Havana and past many well-known sights of Cuba. Hotels and businesses right on the circuit provide 'pit stops' with loads of volunteers giving out oranges and water. I felt like I was on a high-speed tour of Havana, with all the familiar and famous sights flashing by me as I whizzed past! Well, jogged anyhow! We also ran along the sea wall of Havana ' the Malecon ' which has some amazing views and gave us an opportunity to catch a cool breeze too.

Picture flickr - neijs

I managed to complete the half circuit (no records broken I'm afraid!) although at times I wasn't sure my legs would hold out. I felt like I'd run right around Cuba! Hotels, hot showers and beds were the order of the day for me and my friends! Next time my goal is to return fit enough to complete the entire marathon.

The best moment came at the end of the race as people were crossing the finish line. Many of the foreign runners took off their shoes and gave them to the Cuban locals who had run the entire course barefoot. It's turned into a tradition for them to do this and it was such a lovely sight it really made me proud. And even though it meant handing over my favourite trainers - I too became a part of the wonderful tradition of the Marabana.

Till next time
Peter

posted at: 11:55 | path: /peter | permanent link to this entry | 0 comments