I ventured from Havana to Trinidad and spent 2 days wandering the streets, just blissfully enjoying its rhythms. Experienced its residents busily living their lives. Interacted with many people along the way. It was a world of its own. The poverty was striking, yet their resilience and love for life were deeply admirable.
Now my Spanish was nowhere near fluent - enough to get by. In the photo to the left the little boy kept asking me for money so I shared what I had and also bought him some coconuts from one of the most kind hearted, peaceful spirits I have ever met. He had such a calm that I still remember today. His face had a long story to share. I felt drawn to him. I decided to pause from my wandering and refresh with a drink of coconut water. Then in a blink, the rain started pouring. The elderly coconut vendor beckoned me to join him for shelter and I followed his lead. We ran to a nearby store and grabbed a seat to wait for the pounding rain drops to ease - we sat, smiled, laughed, used our hands to communicate and my little spanish and had a beautiful, amazing exchange! That is the heart of the people I wanted to experience!! That filled me with so much gratitude!
The vibrant colors of the streets of Trinidad blended with the vibrant spirits of its people. A history to be told. Stories to share. Rhythms to sway in the Caribbean breeze of this hypnotic island.
And who can resist admiring the classic cars, many immaculately maintained and like a peacock, adorned in brilliant colors.
The streets of Havana were bustling with music and people and food and history. The buildings were singing their stories of a rich history that continues to morph. The Capitol building, the restaurants, hotels, living quarters, clubs, art studios - all taking center stage amidst the people performing, working, living, haggling, surviving, thriving ... I even received a beautiful serenade while absorbed in the awe of Havana! And, danced at the iconic Buena Vista Social Club!
