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(4) mischa oak F A L L 2 0 1 4 | G O I N G P L A C E S 27 does. We depart María la Gorda, and the high winds and whitecaps kick up. T wo days earlier those same high winds had closed stretches of Havana's famous eight-km- long Malecón seawall. So, on our fi rst day in Cuba, we took a whirlwind tour arranged by our host Alan Law of GLP Worldwide Expedition Travel and Tours. First up: a horse-and-carriage ride from the Capitol building along the edge of Old Havana, emceed by the ever-ebullient Angelo. After establish- ing his Canadian credentials – "I love the Guess Who and Nickelback" – he barked out tour highlights: "Photo op! Bacardi!" (the art deco Bacardi building, now home to Santiago de Cuba Rum); "Photo op! Afghanistan!" (a bullet-riddled balcony dating back to the 1959 revolution); and every make, model and year of many aged, post-war American cars on the streets. Next on our schedule was a walk with a govern- ment-accredited guide Nubia, who escorted us into the heart of Old Havana, pointing out many of the city's 35 museums, including the gorgeous Museo de la Ciudad and its tastefully displayed exhibits of grand, colonial Cuba; four main squares – Plaza de Armas, Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza de Vieja and Plaza de San Francisco; and three Hemingway haunts, including the immaculately restored and cared-for Hotel Ambos Mundos where the American writer lived from 1932 to 1939. We took the wrought-iron and wood elevator Papa once rode to the terrace for revealing views of the city and enjoyed a friendly exchange with six young Russians working on a round of mojitos at 10:30 in the morning. High winds prevailed into the afternoon, and our scheduled 5 p.m. departure on the Panorama was delayed by a day. Cruise coordinator Lissett off ered the option of a day trip by tour bus to the cigar and rum factories of Pinto Rio or another day at our lei- sure in Havana. Lori and I chose Havana. We used landmarks from Nubia's tour to connect Experience Cuba's beauty, history and culture like never before aboard Cuba Cruise. ® Call CAA Travel to book this authentic Cuba adventure! Cuba Departures Each winter, the island of Cuba is a popular destination for Canadians. Whether it's the warm sun and sand that draw you in or the Cuban culture, this Caribbean paradise has something for everyone – and CAA Travel has the all-inclusive vacation for you! Iberostar Mojito 3.5 stars 7-night all-inclusive to Cayo Coco with WestJet Vacations From $829* + taxes Melia Las Dunas 4.5 stars 7-night all-inclusive to Cayo Santa Maria with WestJet Vacations From $889* + taxes Playa Costa Verde 4 stars 7-night all-inclusive to Holguin with Signature Vacations From $915* + taxes Riu Varadero 5 stars 7-night all-inclusive to Varadero with Sunwing Vacations From $955* + taxes Tryp Cayo Coco 4 stars 7-night all-inclusive to Cayo Coco with WestJet Vacations From $959* + taxes Call CAA Travel at 204-262-6000 or toll-free 1-800-992-8143 to book your winter getaway today! *Offers are subject to change without notice. All costs are based on Winnipeg departures, double occupancy and are subject to terms and conditions. Contact CAA Travel for full details. Riu Varadero Trinidad is known as the "Museum of the Caribbean." This altar is the only one of its kind in Cuba. The Museo de la Ciudad, itself an example of baroque architecture, houses furniture, 19th century horse carriages and other artifacts. Snorkellers enjoy the abundant marine life in the waters off María la Gorda. Post-war American cars cruise the streets of Havana.