What started about 15 years ago, just wrapped up as we completed our 2024 EastCoastTrek. It stated by paying homage to the 1963 March on Washington which was held on August 28th. Usually there are commemorations held on the national mall. This year was light but there was still many like us who were at the mall as well as the MLK memorial.
We started at Union Station and boarded Amtrak for Tacoma. After 2 days of railing we arrived and spent a couple of days in the Tacoma/Seattle area. From there we took a flight to BWI and spent some time in Baltimore. Our dear friend and fellow foodie, Renie picked us up and after spending some time at the iconic Lexington Market the next day he drove us to DC. After spending a couple of days we jumped back on Amtrak and headed to New York. On the way we picked up my sister at BWI and off to the Big Apple. It was my first time being able to spend time at the legendary Times Square. As we say, ‘trekkin is not for the weary!!!!
For those who accept the notion that “voting does not matter” the recent conviction of Donald J. Trump serves as a real example of why it does matter!
If Democrats did not win the majority in 2018, Elijah Cummings would not have received the gavel. But, by doing so he was able to have a hearing just two months after the session begin, marking Feb. 17, 2019 when Michael Cohen told the committee of Donald Trump’s criminal behavior. That hearing resulted in the Manhattan District Attorney to start an investigation which resulted in the jury convicting Trump of all 34 charges.
The testimony has been heard and the jury found that Trump resorted to illegal activities in 2016 that helped him achieve being elected the forty-fifth president of the United States. After being sworn in he was on his merry way to manipulate the norms of the United States government. As president he garnered a complete sweep by controlling both houses of Congress. Yet, two years later the voting public caught on to his antics and in 2018 the Democrats seized control of the House of Representatives which entitled them to manage various oversight functions of how the government works.
One such committee that will go down as historic in bringing Donald J. Trump to justice was the Oversight Committee. The democratic chairperson was Elijah Cummings (D. Maryland). From the time he took office there were ongoing rumblings that something was amiss with the way Trump was manipulating the government to his personal benefit.
Elijah Cummings served Maryland’s 7th District located in Baltimore. He passed away in 2019 and this mural is located in his beloved district. Photo credit – Fred Thomas, III
As hearings commenced, it was the pivotal one on February 27, 2019 that will mark the day the antics of Trump became more public as Michael Cohen who had been kicked to the curb by Trump and his acolytes testified and communicated to the committee some of the deeds he was responsible for. A good portion of Cohen’s testimony led to the investigation of Trump, and several became the cornerstone of the charges brought against him by Manhattan District Attorney, Alvin Bragg.
History was realized on May 30, 2024, as Donald J. Trump became the first United States president to be convicted on thirty-four felonies. The bottom-line message is simple; if the Democrats had not voted in the mass to achieve the majority, surely there would not have been an Elijah Cummings as chairperson of the oversight committee. And, without the committee there would not have been public testimony to gather enough documentation to start the investigation which led to the criminal charges Donald J. Trump was called to answer.
The moral of this report: Voting does matter.
Here is the full hearing of the Oversight Committee on 2.17.2019 where Cohen came clean
My feet’s is tired but my soul is rested!!!! noted civil rights herione, Mother Pollard”
Mother Pollard’s proclamation is how I feel having just completed my sixth trek to Cuba. Just days ago, I was trekking around Matanzas as well as Havana putting the last touches in wrapping up research for my book slated to be released in the Summer 2024. The topics are compelling but two I felt were worthy of exploration.
More important is I wanted to provide my perspective. I am sure some will be critical or provide an opposite view, but I must stress it will be my honest voice.
As most know US citizens are not allowed to visit Cuba as tourist. Those few allowed must have a legitimate reason to set foot on the soil. Cuba has shortages that would challenge even Daniel Boone!. Getting around takes laser focus planning or lots of money, which I do not have, so I had to rely on an organized itinerary.
During my visit my Epson smartwatch chalked up steps totaling 81 miles. While that seems far-fetched, I have faith in how the watch calculates and at times my body is still feeling all those steps. In addition to walking, your options are to catch the bus, which is difficult at best because there is rarely any space you can place your foot to try and get on. The other is grabbing a taxi and yes, I did take taxis on some occasions but the fact I was on a tight budget I had to choose other options. And of course I did not have a motorcycle or a bicycle.
These are some of the goals I outlined in making this last journey:
Take in two games as part of Ligu Biesbol Cuba / Series Nacional Elite
Revisit Estadio LatinoAmericano
Revisit Estadio Pedro Marreno (formerly Tropicana Field)
Locate the original site of the Buena Vista Social Club
Visit Slave Rebellion Museo – see Carlota statue
Meet with Cuban baseball official while seeing the Parisean Caberet
Revisit Palma de Junco
Go to Estadio Victoria Giron
Complete six interviews
Meet officials at Central Park – Esquina Caliente
Casa Particulares
My two hosts were outstanding. Again, going to Cuba does not mean you are going on vacation. The accommodations are basic at best, but that is OK, especially for me because I am trekking.
Cuba is tough to describe because many can’t believe what they are hearing or draw quick inferences of how the people should be pitied. Cuba is Cuba, the United States is the United States. Each country has it own set of challenges, although western pop-culture is a great influencer of people’s behavior. You can look at some of my pictures as anecdotal evidence, but some people appear like they really have it going on or they are living a very progressive life – despite being in a socialist/communist environment.
Several Cuban friends insist at least 90% of Cubans would leave the country today, if they could. At the same time, I have spoken to others who display national pride and dismiss any notion of abandoning it. All this is going on as there are those who take great risk and tremendous financial sacrifice for those who might sponsor them to leave Cuba and head towards the Mexico border with the goal of achieving asylum from the US.
For those able to make it, here is what they receive following their ICE interview:
$660 per month for one year.
Medicaid
Snap allotment each month.
Opportunity for Green Card after one year (although many find jobs right away – perhaps “under the table?”
Most know but really don’t understand Cuba’s socialist system or sponsored by the government. This is rations as outlined in the booklet that each person must take to receive their monthly allotments:
1 bread every day.
6 pounds of rice,
12 ounces of black beans,
3 pounds of sugar.
2 packs of cigarettes and 2 tobaccos.
1/2 pound of chicken or minced meat and
5 eggs for a month.
2-month bottle of oil
Also, for another extra option, 2 packages of minced meat, detergent, oil, sausage for 30 or 40 days
Also 2 soaps, 1 for bath and one for washing
And 1 toothpaste for a month
The political solution
President Obama tried to make sense of the CUBA/USA relationship, specifically the 50 years plus embargo. For some it was a step in the right direction. Although those who opposed the CUBA regime vehemently stated their disapproval. The contradiction in that mindset is those same people are saddled with the reality of having to support family members left behind. It’s an interesting paradox as those very people, despite leaving their country in some very tenuous circumstances, no less were able to rehabilitate their lives. I’m not marginalizing the pain and suffering they endured. What I am saying is when it is better to move on? Further and very important from my perspective is many of the very Cuban nationals who are living productive lives have also achieved political relationships. In other words, they have a voice. Also, history teaches us, change is never easy and in most instances the voice comes from the youth; not those who have the wisdom or are in mid-age.
Several years ago the Government finally abolished the two currency system: CUP’s and CUC’s. The CUP’s are pesos and the CUC’s were tied to the dollar. So, today Cuban’s use CUP’s and the basic rate is 1:125 or for every US dollar you would receive 125 pesos. However on the open (black) or informal market the rate is much higher. In my case I was able to receive 1:270. So, while that is good news for me or those trading US dollars, it has deadly or tough consequences for Cuba’s state workers. Their average pay is between 5,000-6,000 pesos or translated against the dollar $40-$48 per month. But, using the black market rate it is much lower. Keep in mind those in the private market – waiters, taxis, tourist guides, barbers, etc. are able to receive much more. Y. Rodriguez, Cuban Journalist
Change for Cubans most likely will not come from the Cuban government. However, because those Cubans in the United States enjoy more freedom or have more of a voice as an aspiration might consider being more strategic. They should rally as a group and appeal to their elected officials (i.e., Rubio, Cruz, etc.) and instead of allowing them to keep blaming the obvious or issues we already know about. That is no solution and for years that have been the response, keep blaming Castro, keep blaming anyone and everyone who supports the Cuba regime. They must turn the tide and appeal to the current administration to tackle the CUBA/USA relationship, for once and for all. As people we have more in common. Of course for those who do not support this ideal, it is known there is a financial incentive to keep people impoverished or stuck in a tough economic position. And that might be the reason those Cubans in the United States would rather continue the blame game instead of getting busy.
Stay tuned as there is so much more to communicate on this topic.
In the meantime, should you wish to see some of the photos during this trek please click here
Cuba is an ever-changing country and documents needed for entry may change or have been updated. Here is the current reality for those traveling from the United States
Passport
You will need an active passport that is not expiring within six months of your departure.
Affidavit for Travel
Assuming you thoroughly understand the requirements that have been set forth by the US Treasury, you will need to attest your permission to travel to Cuba. At your initial departure your airline will ask for this form or have you complete it on sight
Cuba Health Declaration
This form is to be completed WITHIN 3 days of your departure. Once you arrive in CUBA and you enter the customs area you will see staff who will review and collect this document. Once approved they will send you to the customs window for passport review.
Travel Visa
Some get this document in advance. No worries if you do not as your departing airline or whichever airline you are using to get to Cuba (assuming you have a connecting flight) will have someone available at your check-in to make sure you have this critical document. From my experience, those flying to Cuba from the US (i.e., Miami, etc.) will pay approximately $100. On the other hand, those flying in from other countries (i.e., Panama, Cancun, etc.) will pay between $20-$25). Don’t ask me why the difference. IN ADDITION TO YOUR PASSPORT THIS DOCUMENT SHOULD BE WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES.
Itinerary
Seems simple enough but some minimize this critical requirement until its too late and have problems justifying what they are doing in Cuba? Your itinerary should be specific, day by day, exactly what your activities will be (it better match the reason you listed for your visit). The bottom-line, tourism is a no-no. Again, this should be with you at all times. Don’t take chances you will not be stopped. It just might be your lucky day.
Trace form
Upon returning back to USA, the CUBA airline staff will need to see this (unless you completed it online) before they allow you to go through customs.
Race is not a topic easy to discuss. It makes many feel uncomfortable or being candid. Various countries have attempted to deal with the topic and some with limited success but dealing with institutional remedies continues to be illusive.
Cuba has a very interesting race dynamic. As part of the 1959 Revolution it was something leadership knew had to be dealt with. Despite trying the issue remains. The following segment was released in April 2022, so it can be assumed it was produced around the first of the year or shortly thereafter. Unfortunately, Dr. Morales-Dominguez passed away several months later in May 2022.
“Racism white supremacy is a dynamic system for the ultimate purpose of white genetic survival on the planet. Racism white supremacy is a conscious and/or self conscious construct by people who classify themselves as white for their genetic survival.” Dr. Frances Cress-Wesling, noted Physiatrist
“Indeed Cuba has a pestering problem with race but unlike countries such as the United States you do not see Blacks gunned down by law enforcement.” Dr. Esteban Morales-Dominguez
New World Coming: Race in Cuba: “Everything Within The Revolution” is part of Political Education Resource Platform
Postscript – Those of you who follow this site know that Dr. Morales-Dominguez was a guest contributor and offered many articles from the Cuba perspective. I am completing my research on Race in Cuba as well as the effects of the Negro Leagues on Cuban Baseball. In 2017 Dr. Morales-Dominguez welcomed me as a friend and helped with direct guidance to assist with my research. He is the preeminent authority in Cuba on the topic. He holds two Doctorate degrees, including one from Russia. I am forever indebted to him and his lovely wife Katia for sharing their counsel with me. I am planning one last trip to Cuba in several weeks and the book is slated to be available Fall 2024.
Reaching classic car status (in production 25 years), as noted by Motor Trend Audi will retire its revolutionary “TT” sports car this year. Technically the car rolled out in Europe in 1998 but it was the 1999 model which came to the United States in 2000.
I was working on a short-term spacial photography gig in early 2000 and one of my assignments took me to San Francisco. It was there I noticed this trendy car zipping through the streets. My thought was ummmm?
As 2001 went by I remembered that look and occasionally, I would see another one. It was 2002 and my financial condition improved so I really started looking. At the time it was the basic coupe and the roadster. Finally, in March 2002 I found a pre-owned 2000 at a luxury dealer in Redondo Beach and it had limited mileage as well as having only one owner. I grabbed it and the rest is history. My office was in Pasadena and since it was still under warranty Rusnak Pasadena became my service dealer and they took care of all the issues you might have in wanting to bring your car back to perfection. However, there was an issue with one of the service advisors who felt more concerned about his advice versus accommodating my needs. I searched for a new dealer and even though Los Angeles Downtown Audi was closer to me, it seemed like a dealer not capable of meeting my needs I was wrong. You know what they say? First impressions can be everything! After making an appointment I was greeted by the tech who resembled a German and who wore a white smock. His name was Dennis and he assured me he would take care of my TT. Along with him and his Associate Valentin, who became my regular tech, they provided all the confidence I needed in assuring me the TT would be taken care of.
TT Runs
I joined a couple of Audi TT car clubs and met some great people as well as gaining knowledge of why these cars were so special. We would go on runs and other adventures and it was quite a site to see 50-75 TT’s rolling into various parts of the United States. Over the years I made modifications to my TT, although I must admit being somewhat intimidated to do so not wanting to void my warranty. Anyway, I added a chip to improve speed, wheels and other amenities. Perhaps the biggest mod that made my car stand out was adding a sunroof. When I was searching for the car, I could swear I saw the coupe with a sunroof. My eyes deceived me as the coupe did not have a TT. Even still, I had to have one. Despite being warned the roof would cave in as well as other calamities, I took the splurge and found an aftermarket installer located in Paramount, CA. I am 6’3” and the coupe is tight. The roadster is a no-go due to the way it is designed. It would be impossible to wedge my body into the car with the roof closed. However, the coupe was perfect as since it is part of the VW design and features lots of headroom, the sunroof was perfect.
The TT is a very fun car to drive. Looking back I am glad I realized in 2003 with miles stacking up, I needed purchase another “regular day” car so I opted for the A4, which itself had gone through a new design.
Sad to see it go….but
I am said to see the TT go. It was a revolutionary and the first sports car with an aerodynamic design. I liked the Porsche due chose not the chase the crowd because in my opinion, everybody has one. After Audi rolled out the TT, other manufacturers followed including Nissan, Honda, BMW and others who saw the benefit of the aerodynamic body. Plus, because the body offers a curved feature, which even today you will rarely see a model without it, the car was known as “ahead of its time.”
So, my TT is coming up on 24 years. It is in very good condition and yes, it is pampered. It has approximately 155,000 miles on it and even though I moved away from Valentin (due to cost of repairs at a dealer), I found Eurospec where Jeff and Peter provide the same confidence in making sure any repairs are legitimate but providing the care to make sure my investment is protected.
My current everyday car is a zippy A3 sedan.
At Red Rock in Las Vegas 110 MPH before topping off at 130MPH – NO TICKETAshland, ORUnder the hoodMontanaOld school Cocoa MatsOriginal look Durango, COCurrent look
Postscript – Audi is replacing the TT with another electric model to add to their growing lineup. That’s leaves the R8 as the only sports car in their stable.
“Our feets is tired but our souls [are] rested” Mother Pollard, renowned Civil Rights activist
Those who know us (Judith and me) understand our philosophy of trekking or touring spots of interest on a low or non-existent budget. Another difference in trekking is the sacrifice (lots of walking) required which is why many don’t dare venture into the experience. At the same time, many know about our trekks and are fascinated about the adventure – but as we warn BEWARE!!! Our friend Renie who is a foodie extraordinaire and who hails from Laurel has grown into a real tropper. For this journey, my sister Angela decided to give it a shot and we all had a great time.
We just successfully completed our EastcoastTrekk 2023, and the following recap is provided. This trek is important to us because we culminate it paying homage to the 1963 March on Washington which includes participating in events to commemorate the event. For this trek we needed to stretch it out but due to budget restrictions we needed to employ some creative strategies.
Departing at LAX, we did the red eye to Baltimore. After getting a brief nap at the Aloft Hotel Renie picked us up so we could grab lunch. From there we headed to DC so we could drop off our larger luggage before heading to Union Station to catch Amtrak for Charleston, South Carolina. We did a daytrip and later in the evening we boarded Amtrak for New York. It was also a day trip and later we boarded the Amtrak Acela for DC where we spent several days with March on Washington activities. Renie picked us up the last day which was Tuesday, August 29th, and we headed back to Baltimore, while also making a lunchbreak at world famous Pappas Crab Cakes.
I use an Epson pedometer watch which does a great job in documenting steps/miles, etc. Based on the data from the watch for this trek we did 56.2 miles!!!!
FIRST STOP – CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
The International African American Museum (IAAM) was supposed to open January 2023. Our group was all set to be part of the inaugural visitors. Unfortunately, the venue was dealing with some issues and the opening was postponed. After some consideration we decided to wrap our visitation during our EastcoastTrekk which is always the end of August. In addition to visiting the museum we took time to visit the historic Mother Emmanuel AME church as well as our friend local Charlestonian, Joe Brown.
The 2023 Major League Baseball (MLB) All-Star game was a thriller with unsung Puerto Rico hero Elias Diaz from the Colorado Rookies belting his way to nab MVP honors. Down by one run in the 8th inning, Diaz slapped a two-run bomb to give the National League the win.
Like many professional sport organizations, over the years has been a push to internationalize the game. Baseball in particular has seen the fruits of their labor pay-off. Known as “America’s sport”, throughout the last thirty years there has been a decline in African-American players. However there is a lot beneath what most see or understand of various programs being implemented to increase the numbers, so stay tuned. A stark improvement has been seen in players from the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America. Historians will ponder the rise in numbers but some who truly understand the social impact of baseball will attribute the success from the legacy of the Negro Leagues. During the Jim Crow era the Negro Leagues were known to play regularly in the countries mentioned. Their style was embraced and left a lasting imprint while making the game entertaining. You can see the result TODAY by watching players from the various countries – the flashiness, the athleticism and other traits are often confused and labeled “show-offs” by those who only understand the American brand of the game. On this years squad a whooping 42% of players are represented having Black/Latin heritage. Here is a breakdown of countries represented (it does not represent greats such as Nolan Arenado and J. D. Martinez who were both born in the United States but parents immigrated from Cuba).
TOTALS
AA
CUBA
CUR
DR
VEN
PR
NATIONAL
14
4
2
1
3
3
1
AMERICAN
19
1
6
1
9
2
0
TOTALS
33
5
8
2
12
5
1
NOTES: AA = African American, CUR = Curacao, DR = Dominican Republic, Ven = Venezuela, PR = Puerto Rico*
The Negro League Museum does a great job in showcasing the players who barnstormed across the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America. Their play was revered by the locals and for many countries baseball became the national sport.
[as a preamble this is written from a United States perspective who are a minority of overall visitors to CUBA.]
This trek was dedicated to my dear friend, Dr. Esteban Dominguez Morales who passed away earlier this year. Over the years we developed a great friendship. He explained how he joined the revolution as a young teenager. As he gained formal education; achieving two pHD's, including one from Russia, he became a leading voice in Cuban social issues and economics. His seminal work on race helped me immensely in better understanding the culture
My trek to Cuba (Coo-ba) just ended. I remind those who ask the big difference between a trek and a vacation; is work and sacrifice. Another critical element is my treks are based on a laser-focused efficient budget. Many of you who follow my articles already know how my passion for Cuba was developed after my first visit in 2015. The first year was simply more of a bucket-list adventure: explore the country first-hand. Upon returning that experience led me to do more research into the culture and the history. I discovered the book “Race in Cuba” and after reading it I had many questions. Ever since then I committed to doing solid research on racism in Cuba and the impact of Negro League baseball in Cuba. Based on my progress I have two more treks to complete my research and then I will be able to formally publish
Going to Cuba has fascination for many. As the Caribbean’s largest country at 11 million, like many countries there are contradictions. Currently a small but notable population is fleeing the country and seeking asylum status to whatever country that will accept them. The country is dealing with issues where people must make adjustments. It is not as bad as the 1990’s when the Soviet Union collapsed resulting in them not receiving the financial support they had come to expect. From my real-life interviews that was a brutal period where people were fighting for basic survival. The current situation is tough as shortages and other sacrifices are an everyday reality.
While the Biden administration has clawed back some of the draconian measures the Trump administration implemented, those traveling from the United States must be diligent in understanding approved regulations to visit the country. At the same time I notice some are willing to take the risk and travel as a tourist doing things such as visiting beaches, visiting government run businesses and enjoying the country. They do so at their own peril because while the Cuban government may turn the other way, returning back home may result in severe questioning or imposing financial penalties. Part of the basic requirement in visiting is you must have a bullet-proof itinerary (in your possession at all times with your passport and travel visa) to document your “business.”
I missed my 2021 trek as even though Covid was simmering down, the airlines had elevated ticket prices that my pockets could not handle. Luckily, 2022 showed greater promise as prices became more affordable. The biggest hitch was selecting a reliable airline because there are many that claim to accommodate Cuba. I was looking at United but at the last minute had to switch because they were having logistical issues in flying into Jose Marti International. Luckily American offered the right combination. LAX to Miami and then off to Havana.
I normally make my treks in November, before or after Thanksgiving so this time I needed to dedicate the entire month as we added going to Belize to witness the Garifuna Settlement celebration. Around August I had to move it into high gear and move into the final planning phase. This was critical because going to CUBA is very fluid or everchanging as was the case with money or the value of the U.S. Dollar as well as accommodations.
My itinerary was solid as I planned for meetings, interviews and other interactions. The focus of this trek was to visit Matanzas; San Severino Slave Castle and Palmarde Junco, which in 1874 became Cuba’s first baseball stadium. I am proud to report, even today it stands in its glory as games are still played there. Additionally, there was much to do in Havana as well as Camaguey and then on to Santiago. The notion of understanding racism goes back before the revolution which is why it was important for me to see the Moncada barracks as it became a pivotal moment in history. My initial goal was to travel using the updated train system but my host in Matanzas convinced me it was too perilous as schedules were unpredictable. After acquiescing I made my journey from Havana to Santiago via the Viazul. Below are highlights of my trek.
Tourist Visa
Assuming you meet one of the twelve categories to travel to Cuba, a tourist visa is basic documentation U.S. citizens will also need to travel. From my experience pricing will range from $25 to $100. Staff is generally positioned adjacent the airline you are flying to enter CUBA. The lower prices are generally available for non-US flights. Unlike past years there is no fear by having your passport stamped by Cuban immigration or suffering the rath once you return to the U.S. and being questioned, “what were you doing in Cuba?”
Inflation
For those whining about inflation I would encourage them to visit Cuba. As mentioned there are severe shortages of the most basic commodities. The CUP (Cuban peso) is very fluid and fluctuates daily. You can exchange on the informal market but like most things – Buyer beware! In other words, you need to develop a reliable source, or the alternative is simply to exchange at Cadeca’s or banks. During my visit the rate was ranging $1 equal 110 pesos. My rate on the informal market was $1 to 150 pesos. This is a tremendous benefit assuming you are comfortable doing business with the local economy, but you must ditch any resemblance as a tourist.
You will notice national products (i.e., tabac [cigars], rum, coffee and other items) can only be had with an international card. That can spell trouble as the card is pegged almost dollar to dollar as many of the products are marked in that currency. One thing I did notice is a few shops at the airport accept CUPs, so that is another opportunity to stretch your buying power.
Shortages
As you’re doing your research on Cuba you will discover lots of news on shortages. They are real and for most Cubans it remains a nagging headache to wait in endless lines to try and retrieve basic goods. The other shortage which was new during this trek was the power. Until you witness it, it is hard to phantom. The solution is exceptional organizing of your day as well as your resources in preserving power (mobile phones, computers, etc.)
Transportation
Trekking is not for the week and feeble. For this trek based on my Epson smartwatch I pegged 96 miles of walking!!!!! The rest was cabs and motorcycles (rider). For this trip I had planned to ride the local buses, which are now 2 pesos, but logistics prevented that experience. I journeyed from Havana to Santiago and provinces in between via the Viazul bus system. Interestingly, locals are prevented from riding the Viazul and must travel on the national buses. The reason I was told was because the country is trying to ramp up tourism and needs every available seat to those visiting the country. Here is the bottom-line, the country of Cuba is wide and from Havana to Santiago is about 15 hours (except flying which is prohibited from my budget). YOU MUST PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE OUTSIDE OF CUBA (online) and in my case as mentioned I was planning to take the train from Matanzas to Camaguey so I had to do some quick thinking. I contacted my daughter in the US and gave her my Viazul credentials and she was able to secure the ticket and email it to me so I could travel. The cost was:
Havana to Matanzas = $21
Matanzas to Camaguey = $31
Camaguey to Santiago = $21
Santiago to Havana = $56
So for $115 I was able to literally go across-country. Of course some chose to fly or hire private taxis. That was not my reality as I opted for the more affordable option. As stressed, this type of travel is not for everyone but for me it is perfect. It does make stops along the way. You are able to go into towns you probably never would have the opportunity to go. THERE ARE NO RESTROOMS ON THE BUS. A smart traveler will always sneak some tissue into their luggage as the custom in Cuba when there are stops is to pay to use the restroom (10 pesos). Also, it is not uncommon for the bus to pull over in the rural terrain to allow those who simply can’t wait to relieve themselves.
Internet
I surely do not come to Cuba to lay on the internet but you do need that resource for communication. The system has greatly improved in Cuba. You now have several options which include getting a sim card, getting a phone, internet cards, etc. I selected internet card and to my surprise the prices have greatly decreased. In the past it was not uncommon to pay 1:1 or with US Dollars. As an example 5 hours would cost $5. Of course some access cards on the informal market. For me I prefer to go to the Ectesa office. Expect a wait should you use this option as there is usually a line to get into the office. I waited about three hours but it was worth it as to my surprise three 5 hour cards cost 375 pesos the equivalent of $2.50 based on my exchange rate. One important thing while the service has greatly improved part of your logistics planning is to map out available hotspots based on your travels.
PHOTOS
Photos of the trek can be accessed by clicking on the appropriate link
Thomas Reports 