As we returned to Havana, we stopped at a small highway rest stop where a snake handler displayed his wares and a large bison was available for rides. Coming back into Havana, our Cuban guide pointed out her street, a very narrow one which our large bus could not get through. There was enthusiasm for seeing her home but she was reluctant, and concerned that she could get in trouble for bringing us inside. By this time we were all very warmly connected and everyone pressed her to let us come in, and she relented. Her house was tiny, with a small living, dining area and two small bedrooms, one for her and her husband and one for her two young kids. Her husband was a doctor, and so he had a computer with internet access since he was potentially on call. A washer and dryer were under an outdoor metal roof. As soon as we arrived, her husband opened a bottle of rum and offered us drinks.

We had one more special trip before our last day. We went to an artist village, with vibrant structures and tile work. It was another place for rice and beans, but the more meaningful part of the visit was meeting the artists and then capturing the photos of some of the children. Like every child we saw in Cuba, they were exceptionally beautiful and reflected the blending of heritage through Cuban history.

On our last night in Havana, we went to see the legendary Buena Vista Social Club perform.

Then we traveled in the old cars to an elegant dinner in a historic club-like atmosphere with traditional shields on the paneled walls. The following morning we departed Cuba.

— Sue Prenner