Preparing for Santiago de Cuba and Toasting the Joy of Discovery at Sunset

I opened the door to my balcony and walked outside to refresh in the ocean breeze and settle in for the sunset at sea. Then I poured an appropriate cocktail, a Bacardi Rum, to properly set sail and toast to my next new adventure, the chance to visit Cuba for the first time. Bacardi originally hailed from Santiago de Cuba before its revolution (yes, the one with Castro) and on my second sail with Fathom, we were set to dock there the next morning.

Cheers to a new adventure – Cuba awaits

To be honest, Cuba never was top of my list when I started my travels because of its limited access and the often heard mantra “get there before the Americans ruin it.”  Yet my interest grew over the years through visits to Miami and the Florida Keys and discovering Cuban culture and cuisine in Florida. Now living in the upper Florida Keys and probably under 100 miles from the shores of Cuba I can admit to my excitement and my intense curiosity on the eve of my personal discovery. As I sat here watching this sunset at sea, I knew I had one more sleep until I’d visit Cuba for my first time. The next day I’d be a sponge soaking up impressions of the culture, cuisine, and people of Cuba. I’d also look to find Bacardi’s replacement – Ron Santiago de Cuba (Anejo).

I poured a second drink (the glasses are small) and kicked up my shoes as I stared off into the distance. I knew whatever happened the next day, it would be memorable, very memorable and I could always toast to that. Yes, Cuba for me, like many of us Americans, is traveling into the unknown, and on the eve of my adventure I realized that remains one of the greatest joys of travel.

Happy Sunset Sunday, Craig