Trinidad Cuba

"Trinidad" 24"x30" oil on gesso board

     I started this painting over a year ago when I returned home from our big family trip (nine of us) to Cuba. When we visit Cuba it's to spend time with my husband's family, so since I only stay for a week, I stick close to them. This last time however, the nine of us, with my grandson along as well, piled into a too small van, and headed to the beautiful city of Trinidad for an overnight stay. 

     To make a reasonable income, many Cubans have fixed up their homes as bed and breakfasts. I highly recommend staying in one of these homes! You get more of the feel of the cuban culture and they bend over backwards to make your stay comfortable. The breakfast we were served on the upstairs balcony (remember, this is their modest home) was absolutely delicious! Abundant with fresh items and homemade care. Do not hesitate to stop where you see a sign hanging at someone's home advertising a meal or a place to lay your head for the night! Not only does it help the cuban people but the food is 100% better and the people are so appreciative. I read something once that said people traveling to Cuba should be prepared for bland food. That's for the people eating in hotels and fancy restaurants. Homemade cuban food is delicious!

     Sad fact: Many Cuban people have no idea how beautiful their own country is. Cubans themselves do not often make enough money for vacations and day trips, and up until very recently they weren't even allowed into many places like hotels, resorts, and restaurants.

     My husband, step-daughter and son-in-law stayed in Cuba for a second week and were able to take a few Cuban family members to some more of these beautiful places that they would never have had the opportunity to see. 

     Below are three photos from our trip to the beach with as many family members as were able to come. We rented a truck and let me tell you, not only was the beach beautiful and fun, but that trip bouncing along in the truck with the tropical air messing up our hair and the cuban songs being sung and the joy of being on a trip like that together . . . unforgettable.