FOR THOSE WHO STILL READ: DAY 3: THE RULES IN CUBA APPLY TO EVERYONE

 As we rolled into Wednesday, Day 3 of our Cuban adventure, we decided to seize full control of our vacation plans. Our agenda now included a salsa dance session, and a special request from Carmen-Elena, a professional dancer seeking to expand her repertoire with new techniques for her choreography back home. 

After two action-packed days and nights, exhaustion had caught up with us, but there was no time for lingering in bed. While others enjoyed some extra sleep, I was determined to organize our affairs efficiently.

My responsibilities for the day included contacting and delivering goodies to friends of my Jamaican friend who had come to Cuba for medical treatment and had met a compassionate nurse. He had generously provided me with a whole suitcase full of gifts, which I divided among our group, ensuring we also had everything we needed, including essential supplies like snacks, sanitisers, soap, and toilet paper. A word to the wise for future travellers: these are invaluable additions to your luggage when visiting Cuba. 

With others luxuriating in late mornings, I set my sights on the pool at 8:00 am, only to be politely reminded that it didn't open until 10:00 am. However, I was informed I could take a dip in the ocean. Unfortunately, the sea didn't beckon with its usual allure; it lacked the sandy charm I was expecting. Instead, you simply descended the steps and found yourself in the water. Not quite my idea of a beach paradise. The gym was set to open at 9:00 am, too late for my liking. I spent the next 20 minutes soaking up the sun while waiting for the Cubans to collect their share of the goodies. In the meantime, I had the pleasure of diving into Julian Jingles' book, "A Reason for Living," and took care of various other business arrangements by phone. Among these was my last-minute decision to attend Cuba's most renowned cabaret, Tropicana, the following night. I had done it the last time I was in Cuba and felt there was no need to repeat it. 

Once all was in order, I awaited the arrival of the Cubans. As they approached, I descended to greet them and extended an invitation to my room. However, hotel security intervened and explained that they were not allowed beyond the lobby. I clarified the situation, pointing out that I had a substantial load of items to deliver. A bellhop came to the rescue, and my friends were permitted to unpack the goodies in their own bags right in the lobby.

With the help of our trusty English-to-Spanish translation app on our phones, we made arrangements for the salsa class scheduled for the following day. Our evening unfolded once again at Solo 8, where we, humble Jamaicans, would indulge in a lavish spread of lobster, shrimp, and freshly caught fish prepared to order, straight from the ocean I  swear. It was seafood that quite literally melted in your mouth, with no hint of rubbery toughness or staleness. The freshly mixed cocktails, exquisite wines, and fragrant coffee complemented our meal perfectly, and we were waited on graciously, even though we had lingered past closing time. There was no rush; the focus was on savouring the moment

It is apparent that Jamaica's seafood restaurants could certainly learn a thing or two from their Cuban counterparts. Not to mention the faux fast-food Red Lobster chains in the United States, which have been exploiting customers with high prices, underwhelming portions, and subpar quality.

Cuba, we soon realized, knows how to pamper its guests while upholding its rules and regulations, a harmonious blend of hospitality and order that we were growing to appreciate more with each passing day.

Editor:

The contributor, Lois Grant has dedicated her entire career to the field of communication. She began at Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation as a news editor and later co-founded Innercity Promotions. In 1990, she launched her own production and communication company, Corporate Image Productions. Her notable achievement includes spearheading the Caribbean's acclaimed Tastee Talent contest. Grant's role as Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister further solidified her impact. as a communicator. Her commitment to education is evident through scholarships initiated under Corporate Image, benefiting Jamaica's top performing artists,, media professionals, educators, and esteemed individuals across various fields. She is the production representative for the prominent US network, NBC Sports. 

_________________________________

It's Just a Click

1. Click to register your birthday, and I will mention it on air.
2. Click to report a problem.
3. Click to hear the radio advertisement promoting SpotOn, and share it with your friends.
4. Click to join my group of supporters.
5. Click to listen to Omega Radio which broadcasts at 89.1 and 89.3 FM. SpotOn with Vernon Derby is aired from 1300 to 1600 hours EST, Monday to Friday. That is 1 pm to 4 pm in Jamaica.