Route Map
Explore our planned route through Cuba's most iconic cities.
Accommodations
Discover the rental houses where we'll be staying during our trip.
- Ela's House in Havana, Cuba.
- José and Mari's house in Mariel, Cuba.
- Mayda's House in Las Terrazas, Cuba.
- Daysi's house in Bahía Onda, Cuba.
- Mary's house in La Palma, Cuba.
- Mayte's house in Viñales, Cuba.
- Beachfront house in Playa Larga, Cuba.
History of Cuba: The Revolution
Cuba's history is profoundly marked by its revolution, a transformative event that changed the course of the country and had a significant impact on world politics.
La Revolución Cubana, liderada por Fidel Castro, Che Guevara y otros, culminó el 1 de enero de 1959 con el derrocamiento del Fulgencio Batista. Este movimiento surgió de un descontento generalizado con la desigualdad social, la corrupción y la influencia extranjera.
Following the victory, the new government implemented sweeping agrarian reforms, nationalizations, and literacy and health programs, seeking to establish a more just and egalitarian society. This generated tensions with the United States, which led to the economic embargo and the Cuban missile crisis.
The revolution not only redefined Cuban identity, but also became a symbol of resistance and a model for liberation movements in other parts of the world, especially in Latin America and Africa.
Travel Diary
Follow our adventures day by day as we cycle through Cuba.
Day 1: Trip to Havana
July 25, 2025
The adventure of a lifetime begins with an overnight bus to Barajas Airport. With our hearts brimming with excitement and our saddlebags full of dreams, we eagerly await the flight that will catapult us to Havana, the starting point of our epic bicycle journey across Cuba. The preparations are complete, and the excitement is palpable in the air!
read moreDay 2: Arrival and Accommodation
July 26, 2025
After a seemingly endless transatlantic flight, we finally landed in Havana under the mysterious cloak of night, our trusty bicycles already waiting for us. We headed straight to our retreat for a well-deserved rest, recharging our batteries for tomorrow. The first glimpses of Havana night envelop us in a magical atmosphere, promising countless discoveries.
read moreDay 3: Exploring Havana
July 27, 2025
We spent the morning getting lost in the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, uncovering its secrets on a fascinating free tour. In the afternoon, the excitement overflowed as I climbed onto our bikes for the first time on Cuban soil for a short ride. The day culminated with a total immersion in the vibrant rhythms of salsa and a delicious dinner, experiencing the essence of Cuba in every note and every bite.
read moreDay 4: First day of cycling
July 28, 2025
With our SIM card in hand to stay connected, we began our bike journey from Havana, following the iconic Malecón. Little by little, the bustling city fades away, revealing a different Cuba, with crumbling historic buildings and streets full of contrasts. An unexpected flat tire introduced us to a friendly Cuban cyclist who not only rescued us but also accompanied us to Mariel, helping us find our accommodation. A lesson in Cuban hospitality with every pedal stroke.
read moreDay 5: Second stage, Las Terrazas
July 29, 2025
Our dear cycling friend Lázaro accompanies us on our second leg, heading into the heart of rural Cuba toward Las Terrazas, a stunning protected biosphere reserve. Halfway there, we savor the most exquisite mango we've ever tasted, a gift from Ela, our host from Havana. Upon arrival, Lázaro bids us farewell, and we dive into the refreshing waters of the San Juan River, a well-deserved dip after the day. The adventure culminates with the arrival of a dramatic tropical storm, adding an epic touch to our day.
read moreDay 6: Third stage, Onda Bay
July 30, 2025
We woke up at first light, ready to face the challenging climbs of our third stage. The road revealed itself as a visual spectacle, winding through lush palm forests. Finally, we arrived at Bahía Honda, a vibrant town with lively streets and bustling local businesses. We decided to stop here, following Lázaro's advice, who assured us that his friend Daisy's house offered exceptional cuisine. A feast for the palate awaits!
read moreDay 7: La Palma and an Unexpected Anecdote
July 31, 2025
After a delicious and hearty breakfast prepared by Daysi, we began a more relaxed day. We opted not to visit Cayo Levisa today, as the need to travel 40 km to catch the 10 a.m. boat felt too rushed. Our destination for the day was La Palma, the first milestone on our CubaVelo journey. About 5 km into this journey, we encountered a curious situation: a young cyclist seemed to be following us, repeatedly passing and waiting for us. Unsure how to interpret his insistence, we asked a passing motorcyclist for help, who accompanied us for a few kilometers until the young man finally stopped. It was a peculiar anecdote, which doesn't diminish our experience, as all the Cubans we've met so far have been incredibly kind and helpful. Finally, we arrived in La Palma, where Mary, our host, greeted us with a warm welcome. We also had the pleasure of meeting her husband, José, a passionate environmental educator.
read moreDay 8: From La Palma to Viñales
August 1, 2025
We woke up in La Palma to a delicious breakfast prepared by Mary and set off on the road to Viñales. The landscape transformed into a rural symphony, with cornfields waving in the wind, horse-drawn carts, and an authentic Cuban atmosphere that captivated us with every turn of the pedals. As we progressed, the majestic mogotes of Viñales began to emerge on the horizon, imposing and almost unreal, a spectacle that, no matter how hard we tried to capture in photos and videos, the lens could not do justice. We arrived in Viñales around 11 a.m., a town pulsing with tourist life, although surprisingly, we did not find the avalanche of visitors we expected; the pandemic had drastically reduced the flow of tourists. A friendly local guided us to Mayte's rental house on Sergio Fopico Street, where she greeted us warmly and offered us a range of activities to explore in the valley. After a well-deserved rest and a refreshing dip in the pool, we embarked on a horseback ride through the surrounding area, immersing ourselves in the cigar-making process. Carlos, a master cigar maker, explained every detail and demonstrated his art by rolling a cigar before our eyes, a fascinating experience that made up for the lack of tobacco plantations, as it was off-season. We also discovered the secrets of coffee and "vitamin R" (Cuban rum), delighting in a tasting that left our palates and spirits satisfied. The day culminated with an exceptional and affordable dinner at Don Tomás restaurant, followed by salsa dancing to live music at a local bar. Although we were feeling tired, we went to bed with the promise of a new adventure the next day: a taxi ride to Cayo Jutía, a Caribbean beach we had already dreamed of as paradise. Viñales had completely won us over!
read moreDay 9: Cayo Jutia
August 2, 2025
With the promise of a day of sun and sea, Mayte and I arranged a shared taxi to Cayo Jutía, coinciding with two lively Catalan girls we had met at the bar the night before. Cayo Jutía revealed itself to be a Caribbean paradise: pristine sand, inviting waters, and a vibrant atmosphere. Being a Saturday, the beach bustled with Cuban families enjoying the Eden itself. Seeking a spot of serenity, we ventured to the quieter area, where local culinary art was at its finest: fishermen preparing fresh lobsters right on the sand. We delighted in an exquisite lobster paired with rice, then dived into an underwater snorkeling adventure. The reef offered us a spectacle of colorful fish, purple coral, and starfish, a natural ballet beneath the warm, crystal-clear water. Every moment on Cayo Jutía was a pleasure, mitigating the intense heat with the freshness of the ocean. As evening fell, we shared a taxi back with our new Catalan friends, heading back to the heart of Viñales. After a well-deserved rest, the evening found us having dinner in a lively bar, where the music and dancing of the locals created an atmosphere of pure joy, even as we savored our sandwiches. Finally, the energy carried us back to the salsa bar from the night before, where our bodies moved to the Cuban rhythm one last time before surrendering to sleep, the sands of Cayo Jutía still in our thoughts.
read moreDay 10: Rest and Exploration in Viñales
August 3, 2025
In the morning, the promise of a break allowed us a leisurely breakfast. We enjoyed the tranquility of the house, spending time reading, catching up on our travel journal, and taking a refreshing dip in the pool. At noon, we returned to what we already consider our culinary sanctuary in Viñales, the Don Tomás restaurant, once again confirming its unbeatable value for money. In the afternoon, our bikes took us to conquer the viewpoint of the Los Jazmines hotel. Although the gray clouds and thunder foreshadowed an impending storm, the views of the mogotes and the lush vegetation were simply breathtaking, a hallucinatory beauty that takes your breath away. We decided to take shelter and enjoy a mojito while the rain passed. With the storm now over and a pleasant temperature surrounding us, we ventured out to visit the Mural of Prehistory. While the work itself wasn't dazzling, the real charm lay in getting lost along the paths that wound through the imposing mogotes, an experience of total immersion in nature. To top it off, we returned to Don Tomás for dinner, where the waitress, who had already considered us friends, shared that she also had a house for rent (Villa Sueño). The day culminated with another relaxing swim in our house's pool, thus capping off another truly wonderful day in Viñales.
read moreDay 11: From Viñales to Playa Larga
August 4, 2025
Today, dawn in Viñales found us ready for a new challenge. After a hearty breakfast and meticulously preparing our saddlebags, we waited for the taxi to Jagüey Grande. A minor mix-up with the trunk of the first car was resolved with the proverbial Cuban ingenuity: a second, more spacious taxi came to the rescue. In the blink of an eye, our backpacks and those of other travelers were accommodated, while our trusty bicycles found their place in the other vehicle. Trusting in Cuban friendliness, which has become a constant throughout our trip, reassured us. Mara and I rode in the first taxi with our saddlebags to the Havana interchange point, where taxi drivers, organized by zones, manage the routes. In the second taxi, we managed to fit our bikes by removing one handlebar and the wheels, with Mara ingeniously weaving her way through the equipment. We chatted animatedly with both taxi drivers, whose friendliness made the trip more bearable. Upon arriving in Jagüey Grande, our bikes were assembled without incident, ready for action. With renewed spirits, we pedaled until the sky clouded over, announcing an impending storm that forced us to seek shelter under a roof. After the obligatory break, we resumed our journey to Playa Larga. Along the way, luck smiled on us when a car offered us a rental house with ocean views. Once in Playa Larga, a brief exploration confirmed that the offer was the best option. The day culminated with a refreshing dip in the ocean and a delicious dinner on the terrace of our new home. Mission accomplished! We reached the second stage of our adventure, our bikes in perfect condition and we were full of energy, ready for more.
read moreDay 12: Zapata Swamp
August 5, 2025
After a refueling Cuban breakfast, our bikes took us to explore the crocodile farm in the mystical Zapata Swamp. Although the flow of visitors was sparse, allowing for a more intimate experience, we waited patiently to share the boat that would take us into Laguna del Tesoro. The ride was pleasant, though the anticipation didn't translate into memorable wonder; just another corner in our tapestry of Cuban adventures. On the way home, the road presented us with a mango so succulent it sweetened our souls. Our host, with her innate generosity, surprised us with delicious soup and avocado, a gesture that made us feel even more welcome. The afternoon passed with a well-deserved rest and comforting calls home, while Mara, with her adventurous spirit, delighted in a leisurely stroll along the beach, thus closing another unforgettable day under the Cuban sun.
read moreDay 13: From Playa Larga to Playa Girón
August 6, 2025
A new dawn finds us at Playa Larga, where, after a recharging breakfast, we help our hosts register their charming rental house on Maps.me, hoping more travelers will find this corner of hospitality. Today, the route takes us from beach to beach, heading for Playa Girón. The road, although straight and flanked by trees that sometimes obscure the coast, offers us a natural spectacle: hundreds of crabs scurrying at the touch of our wheels, a tiny ballet that brings a smile to our faces. The monotony of the landscape is broken by secret oases: small coves among the vegetation where we dive in for an impromptu snorkel. Swimming here is like diving into a giant fish tank, surrounded by vibrant and colorful marine life that takes our breath away. As the day nears its end, an unexpected downpour soaks us completely, but the welcome at Playa Girón is instant and warm. Jorge, nicknamed "Jorgito the Fisherman," intercepts us at the entrance to the town, inviting us to his rental house, a new paradise that's been open for just six months and looks impeccable. His kindness and his stories about today's Cuba, with its changes and challenges, captivate us. After replenishing our energy, we explored the heart of Playa Girón, observing local life from the tables of a shop, a melting pot of stories unfolding before our eyes. Evening brought us back to Jorgito's house, where a sublime dinner awaited us: fresh, juicy lobster, the icing on the cake for a day filled with contrasts, hospitality, and the unexpected beauty of the Cuban coast.
read moreDay 14: Cienfuegos
August 7, 2025
With the sun still rising, we had breakfast at 6:30 AM, eager to reach Cienfuegos. The morning breeze propelled us for miles, gliding almost effortlessly under a sky that promised a clear day. Although the landscape became monotonous in certain sections, each stop to hydrate and stretch our legs was a small oasis. Suddenly, the road presented us with an unexpected scene: rice drying in the sun on the asphalt and vast plantations where oxen plowed the land with an ancient cadence. We attempted a shortcut, but local wisdom guided us along the longer route, warning us of the impassable mud. With each pedal stroke, the kilometers added up until, finally, the streets of Cienfuegos welcomed us. Proudly, we celebrated having surpassed our personal best: 81 km in one day. Upon arriving at the emblematic Plaza de José Martí, its architectural beauty captivated us, although the contrast with the dirt and deterioration of some facades filled us with nostalgia, imagining the city in its splendor, vibrant with music and joy. A recommended rental house offered us a well-deserved rest. After a refreshing shower, we headed to Villa Mar for a dinner that exceeded all expectations: excellent food at unbeatable prices, a real find near our refuge. The day concluded with the promise of another challenging stage tomorrow, heading to Trinidad, but the sweet exhaustion invited us to a deep sleep.
read moreDay 15: Cienfuegos to Trinidad
August 8, 2025
A new day dawned in Cienfuegos, and with the sun still low, at 6:30 AM, we were ready for the next stage of our adventure. The goal: to reach historic Trinidad, although with the flexibility to stop earlier if the road dictated. We left Cienfuegos without difficulty, and the initial climbs gave us spectacular views as we delved deeper into the heart of the island. Halfway there, a delicious mango became the perfect snack. After 40 kilometers, the "peanut butter bar" at Playa Girón gave us a delicious energy boost. A downhill stretch brought us back to the coast, and the first beach bar we found became our oasis. Surrounded by locals, this place buzzed with life, offering not only a restaurant but also a beach with more beach bars. A sandwich and refilled water bottles prepared us for the second part of the day. The heat was felt on a dry stretch under the relentless sun, forcing us to seek refuge at a bus stop to enjoy the mango. But the sight of Trinidad in the distance rekindled our joy; the goal was within reach. The final climbs, though challenging, felt like a sweet victory. An ice cream to celebrate, and that's it! We had reached our destination with our saddlebags full of stories and our hearts overflowing. Now, a few well-deserved days of rest await us to fully immerse ourselves in the charm of Trinidad.
read moreDay 16: Exploring Trinidad
August 9, 2025
In Trinidad, the day began with the sweet slowness of a well-deserved rest. Later, the city unfolded before us through Alain, a local guide whose conversation flowed as naturally as that of an old friend. For nearly three hours, his stories brought every cobblestone street, square, and historic corner to life, immersing us in Trinidad's vibrant essence. After this enriching walk, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee at Café Don Pepe offered us a haven of peace and energy. The afternoon surprised us with a gesture of pure humanity: a Basque couple, confused by their cell phones, found in our host Iris the selfless help that can only be found in Cuba. Dusk invited us on a journey back in time with canchánchara, that legendary drink that, it is said, gave guerrillas courage. The night culminated in the rhythmic heart of salsa, where between sips of mojito and laughter, we tried to let ourselves be carried away by the contagious Cuban rhythm, although the space and intimacy of the moment kept us engaged in a more personal dance. It was a full day, vibrant with culture, genuine connections, and the unmistakable magic of Trinidad.
read moreDay 17: Ancón Beach and Salsa Night
August 10, 2025
The 17th dawned with the sweet laziness of accumulated fatigue, inviting us to a leisurely start. With our bikes ready, we headed to the idyllic Ancón Beach, passing through the picturesque coastal town of La Boca. On the beach, a pleasant coincidence brought us together with a Basque couple with whom we shared laughter and anecdotes from our travels around Cuba and in the van. Their company, as friendly as ever, made the time fly. While they returned to Trinidad for lunch, we surrendered to the tranquility of the hammocks under the shade of the palm trees. The threat of a thunderstorm, which ultimately didn't materialize, added a touch of drama to the atmosphere. The return bike ride, although initially lazy, turned out to be a comforting ride. The evening was filled with family warmth when Iris and her mother invited us to a delicious homemade dinner, creating a truly endearing moment. To round off the day, we met up with the Basque couple again, visibly encouraged by a few mojitos, and headed to the Casa de la Música. There, the vibrant rhythm of Sonata Trinitaria enveloped us, making our feet tap to the salsa beat as we sipped more mojitos. Another day filled with connections, beach, and the unmistakable Cuban joy.
read moreDay 18: Trinidad and the Valley of the Sugar Mills
August 11, 2025
We succumbed to Trinidad's charm and decided to extend our stay, as this colonial city proved to be the most captivating gem of our trip. The morning enveloped us in the warmth of Iris's family; we witnessed the ritual of Father roasting and grinding coffee, a scent permeating the air, and we enjoyed lively games of cards with little Tiago, truly feeling part of this Cuban home. Before noon, we ventured to the Valle de los Ingenios viewpoint, where the panoramic view extends over a sea of greenery, a testament to the former sugarcane plantations and their mills. There, we shared impressions and laughter with a Cuban cyclist who, like us, was exploring the magic of Trinidad. Our lunch was a simple but delicious feast: fried chicken and the refreshing sweetness of coconuts freshly harvested by the friendly gardener, who revealed to us the secret of their edible inner layer. After saying our goodbyes, we returned home for a respite from the warm sun. The afternoon awaits us with the promise of immersing ourselves in the bustle of the artisan market in search of souvenirs, and at dusk, we'll end the day by ascending to the highest viewpoint, seeking one last postcard of this city we now consider our own.
read moreDay 19: Javira Waterfall and Farewell to Trinidad
August 12, 2025
The 19th dawned in Trinidad with the promise of total immersion in nature. After a breakfast that infused us with Cuban vitality, our bikes glided along winding country roads, guiding us toward the majestic Javira Waterfall, hidden in the heart of Topes de Collantes National Park. Each pedal stroke was a sigh of delight, a symphony of endless green landscapes and fresh air that revitalized the spirit; the satisfaction of arriving on our own, unconnected to organized tours, added a touch of authentic adventure. We left our trusty companions near the El Cubano restaurant and set off on foot along a 3.6-kilometer trail, a green tunnel that completely immersed us in the vibrant life of the Cuban forest. After about 40 minutes of walking, the gentle roar of the water announced the appearance of the impressive waterfall, a liquid veil that gracefully fell. We were fortunate enough to immerse ourselves in its crystal-clear pools, enjoying a swim in complete solitude, swimming to the base of the waterfall with an unparalleled sense of peace and renewal. We even ventured to explore a small cave hidden behind the curtain of water, a fascinating corner inhabited by mysterious bats, whispers of nature. Just as we emerged from its refreshing waters, a lively group of Italian travelers arrived, their laughter filling the air, ready to discover the same paradise. We returned along the same path, picked up our bikes, and headed back to the vibrant center of Trinidad. There, we indulged in an exquisite and relaxed meal at the iconic Taberna La Botija, followed by a refreshing iced coffee at the cozy Don Pepe café, each bite and sip a small pleasure. The afternoon invited us to a well-deserved rest in the quiet of our home, with Mara immersed in the pages of a good book and me recharging my batteries, savoring the last moments in this colonial gem. As night fell, we bid farewell to Trinidad with one last nostalgic stroll through its charming cobblestone streets and enjoyed a simple but flavorful dinner, accompanied by the melodious live music that filled the air—a melancholic farewell to the magic of this city that had stolen our hearts. We retired early to meticulously pack our bags, already thinking about the bus that will take us back to Havana tomorrow at 8:00 AM, closing an unforgettable and deeply enriching chapter of our trip.
read moreDay 20: Return to Havana
August 13, 2025
Dawn on the 20th found us ready for our return trip. Early in the morning, a taxi with a bike rack, a gift from a Basque cycle tourist, was waiting to take us from Trinidad to Havana. The four-hour trip passed between naps and pleasant conversations with the taxi driver, whose friendliness made the journey much shorter. It was August 13th, and the city was buzzing with the anniversary of the birth of Fidel Castro Ruiz, who would have turned 99; the celebration was in the air. As we approached our accommodation, the surroundings were already familiar, and as we spotted our house, Ela, Aris, and Eva were waiting for us on the balcony with cheerful faces. We loaded our bikes and luggage, and immediately, while sipping a refreshing welcome piña colada, we shared with them the countless anecdotes and emotions of our trip, as they listened attentively. Afterward, we headed to the Doña María restaurant, just across the street, where an incredibly friendly waiter, who recognized us with a smile every time we passed, gave us a warm welcome. After a well-deserved siesta, we explored Centro Habana to the vibrant Callejón de Hamel, a corner of art and culture. To round out the day, we returned to the restaurant to bring some delicious snacks and share an impromptu dinner with everyone, sealing another unforgettable chapter of our Cuban adventure.
read moreDay 21: Havana and St. Augustine
August 14, 2025
Day 21 enveloped us in the vibrant energy of Havana. After a revitalizing breakfast, Lázaro, our friendly guide on wheels, led us on a fascinating circuit through the iconic Plaza de la Revolución, the elegant Vedado neighborhood, and the lively Miramar. With each pedal stroke, his lucid reflections on present-day Cuba painted a deeper picture of its reality. Our adventure took us 16 km west to San Agustín, the corner of town Lázaro calls home. There, Nidia, his nurse wife, welcomed us with the warmth of a tropical sun and a plate of fresh fruit. Their home, an oasis of light and calm, was filled with laughter and conversation as we shared a table with their daughter Melisa and her boyfriend, experiencing authentic Cuban hospitality. It was a moving testament to resilience to see how, with astonishing ease, the family collected water during intermittent outages; a palpable reminder of the constant dance of ingenuity for accessing basic resources. As we said goodbye to Lázaro and his family, our hearts overflowing with gratitude, the Malecón gave us one last embrace of the sea breeze. There, under the twilight sky, we shared a final refreshment. Ela and Aris, with their almost paternal affection, anxiously awaited our arrival, but we knew this day had undoubtedly been a treasure. And just before succumbing to sleep, an unexpected conversation with Vladimir, their neighbor, about technology and artificial intelligence, ignited a spark of exchange of ideas and contacts, sealing a vibrant day full of memorable connections.
read moreDay 22: Downtown Havana and farewell
August 15, 2025
With renewed energy, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant streets of Old Havana, discovering the majestic Plaza Vieja, a treasure that had eluded us. Our immersion in Cuban history continued at the fascinating Museum of the Revolution, where iconic airplanes, fragments of a downed plane, and the historic yacht Granma, a ship that challenged boundaries with its 80 brave expeditionaries led by Fidel and Che Guevara, transported us to the heart of the Sierra Maestra. We also marveled at the colonial opulence of the Count of Bayona's house museum. The day was sweetened with a culinary farewell: Ela treated us to a home-cooked meal that we shared with her family, a perfect ending to the trip. In the afternoon, after a well-deserved rest, we immersed ourselves in the effervescent world of the Cuban Art Factory (FAC). A multifaceted space that, with its exhibitions, concerts, contemporary dance, and workshops, made us feel transported to Berlin's vibrant art scene. We dared to participate in a Hip Hop workshop, amid laughter and dancing, sharing joy with Cubans and travelers. A memorable experience that capped a day filled with art, history, and authentic connections.
read moreDay 23: Farewell to Cuba
August 16, 2025
Today marks the end of an unforgettable trip. We are filled with a mixture of melancholy for saying goodbye to Cuba and profound gratitude for every experience, every sensation, and every encounter. We return with our hearts full of stories we long to share with friends and family. The morning is spent packing our bikes into their crates and organizing our luggage, with the efficiency that only travel experience can provide. For lunch, we meet up again with the endearing Basque couple from Trinidad. They guide us to the Chanchullero restaurant in Old Havana, a place they know well and which, to our delight, exceeds our expectations. Between shared anecdotes and the taste of perfect mojitos, the meal becomes a toast to our adventures. They too are in the final stages of their journey; who knows, perhaps fate will reunite us again in Bilbao or at some cider house. They escort us to our home, where we bid farewell with a warm "see you later," just before our taxi arrives. Osniel, the same taxi driver who greeted us upon landing in Cuba, is waiting for us. A passionate cyclist, we share with him how our initial concerns about the heat dissipated thanks to our early mornings, allowing us to complete our entire dream route. At the airport, we checked in our bikes without any problems, further confirmation of the success of this first aerial adventure with our two-wheeled companions. Long hours of travel awaited us home, between plane and bus, but our minds return again and again to each moment. This trip has been a resounding 10. We've rediscovered the pleasure of traveling by bike: the freedom to move at our own pace, the joy of exploring towns we would otherwise pass by, the fortune of forging unexpected friendships over a simple flat tire, the spontaneity of a dip in a secluded cove, the thrill of being caught in a torrential storm, the contemplation of the landscape transforming with each pedal stroke, the greetings and smiles of the farmers we pass, the immense satisfaction of achieving goals through our own efforts, and, above all, the enjoyment of the descents after conquering a hill. Traveling slowly has opened the doors to the authentic Cuba, allowing us to meet families, share deep conversations, and experience moments of unparalleled warmth. And none of this would have been so magical without Mara's company. Her daily joy and enthusiasm were the secret ingredient that made this trip exceed all expectations.
read more