Even though it's the middle of the summer, for some reason when I woke up this morning, I felt compelled to write about vacationing in Cuba today! I was fortunate enough to have visited the island with my family, and I can honestly say that it was a truly amazing and memorable vacation! It's been quite a few years since we were last there, but I still have plenty of memories to share.
I can still remember the exact feeling of excitement and wonder I felt when we first arrived in Havana in 2003. Even though Cuba was certainly not my first experience in the Caribbean, it felt like a whole other world. I remember feeling like we had come to a country that was frozen in time, and it fascinated me!
There was something magical about the architecture of the city, the old cars that lined the streets, the music that filled the air, and the sultry heat and passion of the Cuban people. It's mesmerizing and beautiful in a entirely unique way. If you're at all interested in history, you will absolutely love the old city of Havana.
The well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and the old American cars from the 1950s are just some of the incredible sights throughout the island. If you're interested in seeing some of the nightlife, a visit to Cuba is simply not complete without checking out the infamous Tropicana, where you can watch a fantastic cabaret show. During the day time, a trip to the Museum of the Revolution, situated in Old Havana, is a great way to brush up on some of Cuba's fascinating history.
When I visited Cuba with my family, my parents made sure that we would be able to not only enjoy a relaxing vacation at the resort, but also get a chance to see the city of Havana itself. The tour we took of the city was incredible, and I remember very clearly how interested I was in everything we got to see, taste, and smell. Whether it's taking a tour of a cigar factory or simply walking around the square and admiring the city and its people, a visit to Havana is an absolute must for anyone going to Cuba. *On a side note, we also took a city day trip in the Dominican Republic and it was nothing compared to Cuba!
Now, when it comes to where to stay in Cuba, there are plenty of wonderful options to choose from. My parents arranged for us to stay at Melia Varadero and it was amazing! It was truly an incredible resort with plenty of amenities and direct access to the beach. My younger brother and I really enjoyed the swim-up bar, where we drank copious amounts of Coca Cola and (virgin) pina coladas!
The resort is all-inclusive, which makes it an ideal choice for families, and there are plenty of activities for people of all ages. The rooms are spacious and clean, although I doubt anyone would want to spend too much time indoors with all the great things to do outside! I would absolutely love to visit Cuba again at some point, and I can't imagine staying anywhere other than Melia Varadero!
It won't be long until summer is finally here, and along with it, sunny days and warm weather! For some families, summer also means vacation time, as kids aren't in classes all day long. Since my mother is a teacher, we were very fortunate to be able to take a number of lovely trips most summers. One of my favorite trips, was when my parents rented out a beach-front cottage in Prince Edward Island.
We actually visited PEI on two separate occasions, the first time being in August 1999, and then again four years later in 2003. The first year we were there, we stayed in French River. I remember we took the scenic route by taking the train to Moncton, and then renting a car the rest of the way. My brother and I were amazed at how incredible Confederation Bridge was! While in PEI, we visited Kensington, Cavendish, Summerside, Tignish, and Charlottetown. One of my favorite memories from our trip was when we happened upon Rainbow Valley, in Cavendish. Unfortunately, it's since been closed, but I still remember how much fun we had at the family theme park.
My parents took us to Dalvay By the Sea, the hotel where Road to Avonleigh was shot. The hotel is a beautiful Queen Anne-style Victorian, with a grand tea room that overlooks the water. We also went to a smaller, but quite charming tea room called The Blue Winds, as well as the Kitchen Witch Tea Room, where my parents had their tea leaves read.
While we were staying in Summerside, my parents bought both me and my brothers "PEI Dirt Shirts", which have a distinct color from the red earth soil of Prince Edward Island. Having never seen anything quite like it, I remember being fascinated by the red earth! I think my brother and I thought we had gone to Mars!
Aside from the various attractions (Anne of Green Gables being a major one that I really couldn't leave out!), PEI is a natural beauty with lovely scenery and quiet beaches. The people are kind and friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming. It's been quite some time since I've last been, but I certainly hope to visit again!
Now, when it comes to where to stay in Cuba, there are plenty of wonderful options to choose from. My parents arranged for us to stay at Melia Varadero and it was amazing! It was truly an incredible resort with plenty of amenities and direct access to the beach. My younger brother and I really enjoyed the swim-up bar, where we drank copious amounts of Coca Cola and (virgin) pina coladas! 
