Finally, I have time and energy to write
and update this site! It was a busy summer and fall only lasted a few minutes.
Now, we’re heading downhill into winter – it’s already snowed here in Muskoka several
times! Before I begin hibernation, however, I’m going to recharge my batteries
by visiting my favorite haven in Cuba, Marea del Portillo.
I will be leading the 2013 Yoga Posse there
on Oct. 29. That’s just 1.5 more sleeps! (Since we have to leave the house by
midnight on Oct. 28 to catch a crazy-early flight on the 29th, I
only count night that as half a sleep.) This year, the posse is a little
smaller than usual – only 18 - but it will be a nice mixture of people, ranging
in age from 13 to 86. Some are new and others have traveled with me to this
resort several times.
This resort, Club Amigo Marea del Portillo,
in the sun-soaked south end of the island, has one of the highest rates of
repeat clients in the entire country. It’s not just my groups! The primary
reasons, in my estimation, are because of the gracious warmth of the people,
both working at the resort and in the surrounding community, and the
magnificent natural environment. The majestic Sierra Maestra Mountains rise
behind the resort and, in front, the Caribbean ocean spills into a peaceful
horseshoe bay.
As much as I love this place, of course, I
know it’s not perfect. What place is? One of my dear friends bought the
romantic little log cabin in the woods that she had long dreamed of living in.
It was in rough shape, according to almost anyone’s standards, and the
plumbing/septic system was pure crap. But, she loved it. She was willing to
overlook and forgive its inadequacies, and to gradually fix it up.
Those who love Club Amigo Marea del
Portillo are more likely to understand and forgive any shortcomings, naturally.
I’ve read the complaints on Trip Advisor and other site; they mainly focus on
the food and, sometimes, the accommodation.
Regarding the food, I’ve never left the
buffet hungry, despite my assorted dietary challenges. The locally baked bread,
for instance, always gets top marks but I can’t have more than a taste without
disrupting my annoyingly delicate digestive system. There is generally a good
selection of meat, fresh fruits and vegetables but this can be limited by
seasonal availability, and because the resort is far from some of the
government-condoned suppliers. They do the best they can with what they have.
And, one of the things they always have is lobster; some of the best lobster
I’ve ever eaten has been served here!
When it comes to accommodation, in my
experience, it’s been quite adequate. It’s not a 5-star resort, so don’t expect
chocolates on your pillow. (Conversely, I sometimes leave chocolates on my
pillow for the maid, along with a tip.) The entire facility is fastidiously
cleaned each day, including the beach, and improvements are being made, as
supplies and money allow. The cabañas and other buildings are regularly painted
and new structures have gradually been added in the last few years.
This year, a great wave of renovations is
underway. I’ve heard about a few things and I’m very much looking forward to
seeing what’s been done and to learning about what’s being planned. I will, of
course, “inspect” the work and provide a review and photos after I return from
my upcoming trip.
Now, however, I’ve got to get back to
packing! Besides, this post is getting a little long but, don’t worry, the next
one will be short. It will be a poster about another trip I’m planning. Want to
join me? Booking has already begun for this Feb. 26-March 5 winter-escape
holiday, “Jennica 2014.” Come on along! Maybe you, too, will fall in love with
this wonderful little resort.
[Please note: You can contact me via jennicacuba@gmail.com but I will not be
able to reply while I’m in Cuba, Oct. 29-Nov. 14.]
~ Jenny
