Day 20 Baracoa

Up early after a very hot night, even with the air con going all night. We were picked up at 9 for a tour of the town. First stop the museum which used to be the original fort (pirates). This tour was really interesting with a display of natural /man made objects/ historical and modern. I especially loved being able to get a close up of the yellow butterflies we had seen so often in our trip and samples of all the local timbers.

Next a walk through the town, where I finally got a good look at the food stalls/ shops. Jose took us to a bank on the way to change our money. There were guards outside and we were supposed to go in one at a time. But I think they took one look at how hot we were and took pity on us. After showing our passports our money problem was solved and we walked out with our cash.

The sun was relentless during the walk. It was so hot. Constantly pestered by people asking for soap/ shampoo, which is very expensive here. We stopped to look at the remains of the original cross of Christopher Columbus in the local church. It was originally very large, but was gradually reduced in size by people taking souvenirs. The church itself was just lovely- simple using many of the different kinds of local timber.

Eventually we met Vladimir and the gloriously cool bus, which took us to the cacao plantation. We learned about the making of chocolate from the cacao trees. The guide/ owner was a brilliant showman. His hot chocolate was the BEST EVER. I had four cups (small).

Next off to the “river cruise”, which consisted of our six fingered, six toed guide (who could count to 24 using his digits) rowing us up the River Toa and back again!!!!! So very peaceful. The big surprise was the emergence of a crayfish diver just as we were going past.

A lovely restful lunch by the river. The soup was served in a section of bamboo and ladled out of a “bowl” fashioned from a palm frond.

All too soon back on the bus to return to the hotel. Heather and I went for a swim and it was wonderful. The water was warm and in the shallow areas very warm, but so relaxing. Absolute bliss. Shower and washing then time to sit and download photos/ type before going up to the pool to get internet connections – we hope. The foyer is stinking hot. We are also on the hunt for envelopes for our guide/ driver tip!