Most Inspirational Moment
There were many, but two deserve a mention. Firstly, our stay in at the Casa Sinai in Trinidad, this establishment was run by a young lady called Jenni. It was beautifully appointed, with en-suite rooms, with a roof terrace and dining area. The whole family made us very welcome. The food both breakfast and evening meal (optional) was the best we had whilst in Cuba. The evening meal started with vegetable soup, then a fruit and avocado platter, followed by lobster salad and loin of pork with tradition black beans & rice (both, big enough for two) with a side platter of vegetables and finally a large slice of caramel tart for desert .
On the final morning a sumptuous breakfast was ready for us on the terrace at 6am ( still dark). This is where we gifted some of our pens pencils and to Jenni's young daughter for her primary school.
Later in the tour en-route to Santiago de Cuba. Jose our guide found a very small (two roomed) school in a less than prosperous rural area where we were able to donate our remaining pens, coloured pencils, writing materials and packets of bonbons to the children. These very poor children were so well behaved they sat and listened quietly as their teacher explained that these Lycra clad strangers had brought gifts for them and their school from across the sea. No one broke rank, we just received eager grins from the 15 or so pupils. How different from their counterparts in the UK!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jose, was a good leader and cyclist. He was enthusiasm was infectious and he melded well with his two driver colleagues. He took great pains to explain the social structure within Cuban society, as expected he maintained the 'party-line'.
He was obviously aware that there were shortfalls which he was powerless to change in particular that of the "Playa Largo" debacle. Where he insisted "you will really like the beach at this hotel" before we arrived.
Jose did his best for us, and used his influence when he could. His summaries of the days events and terrain expected were accurate. Although his presentational style somewhat disorganised, occasionally leaving the group to decode in what order the events were likely to occur.
Definitely organisation Cuban style!
Moreover we never received the promised customer survey forms for our stay at the Casas in Trinidad.
Advice for Potential Travellers
We would recommend taking your own gel-saddle, or failing that a good quality gel-cover. this together with padded cycling pants will make life tolerable.
Good quality cycling mittens, to reduce stress on the hands.
It is very hot! If you haven't got a 'camel-back' take at least two water bottles, the cycle mechanic will fit a second bottle carrier for you.
A small handlebar bag ( for camera, binos & wet-gear) saves wearing a backpack and stay cool.
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Reply from Exodus
We are glad that Tony found the local team to be so professional. We were, however, sorry to learn of his disappointment with the state-run hotel at the Playa Largo. As accommodation options are very limited in the region, Exodus has taken the decision that from 2016 clients will stay in Casa Particulares at the Playa Largo which we hope clients will enjoy. We are thrilled that Tony found the cycling to be exhilarating.
Adam Roberts – Product Manager for Cuba
