Saturday, January 30, 1999 – Marina Hemmingway, Havana
G’day from Cuba
As I write, Michael and Pius are busy clearing us into the country with the authorities. I thought I would take the chance to write now so that we could hit the town as soon as possible. I have these grand ideas of dancing the night away to some of the best salsa, rumba, mambo and son bands in the world while quenching my thirst with mojitos. Ahhh, the world looks better already. The weather didn’t improve all that much throughout the trip, which should make the next few days even sweeter. All of us have been very keen to come to this country. I have been to many a Caribbean island but none have intrigued me as much as Cuba.
The country has a splendid and varied history but I won’t delve into that until I have read a little more and actually know what I’m talking and more importantly writing about. I think seeing just a minute bit of the country will also aid me in conveying Cuba’s history to you. If any of you have any inside tips on where, what or whom we should visit, please drop us a line as quickly as possible.
Before I sign off I feel I must take this opportunity to thank Gerardo the Harbor Master at Puerto Aventuras Marina. One of the true pleasures of this voyage is not only visiting the countries, but also meeting remarkable and kind people. Gerardo is one such person. From the minute we made contact with him over the radio to the last moment where we shook hands and departed, Gerardo has been nothing less than a total legend. He went out of his way to make us feel welcome, sort out any problems we may have had and made sure we had all we could possibly wish and hope for. Any cruisers out there, make sure you visit the Marina if it is only to meet Gerardo, you will not be disappointed. So on behalf of the whole STARSHIP crew we thank Gerardo for being such a good friend to the project and us.
Best regards,
Rich