Exploring the Colorful Streets of Trinidad, Cuba

A Day of Cuban Delights

Today in Trinidad was all about immersing ourselves in the local culture, one delicious bite and vibrant dance step at a time. It’s amazing how a place can capture your heart through its food and music. Every corner here seems to have a story, and I'm so excited to share today's chapter with you.

Our day began with the aroma of freshly baked bread at the Community Bakery. The simple act of sharing breakfast with the locals gave me a sense of belonging, a feeling I always cherish when traveling. Maximilian, ever the early bird, was already up and about, sketching the morning light as it hit the colorful buildings across the street. He says the light in Trinidad is unlike anything he's ever seen, a painter's dream. The pastries were delightful, and the coffee strong – just the way I like it.


Community Bakery Tagline
For lunch, we ventured to the Vegetarian Cafe. It was a refreshing change of pace. As someone who grew up with hearty Puerto Rican cuisine, I'm always curious to see how other cultures interpret vegetarian dishes. The cafe was small and cozy, filled with the scent of herbs and spices. I opted for a black bean burger, while Maximilian chose a colorful salad bursting with local vegetables. We shared stories with a fellow traveler from Canada, swapping tips and tales of our adventures.


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Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences come from the simplest moments: a shared meal, a spontaneous dance, a heartfelt conversation.

As the sun began to set, we found ourselves drawn to the Historic Inn Dining for dinner. The ambiance was magical, with soft lighting and live Cuban music filling the air. I decided to try ropa vieja, a classic Cuban dish, while Maximilian, feeling adventurous, ordered grilled lobster. The flavors were incredible, a true celebration of Cuban cuisine.


Historic Inn Dining Tagline
But the night was far from over! We couldn't resist the call of Salsa Nightclub. Now, I may be a software developer by day, but my Puerto Rican blood knows how to move to a good beat. Maximilian, bless his heart, tries his best, and we always end up laughing our way through the steps. The energy in the club was infectious, a mix of locals and tourists all united by the rhythm of the music. It was one of those nights where you lose track of time, caught up in the joy of the moment.


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Tomorrow, we plan to explore the local artisan scene, with a visit to the Handmade Goods Store. I'm hoping to find some unique souvenirs to remind us of our time here. And of course, we'll be sampling more of Trinidad's culinary delights, starting with breakfast at Cafe con Leche.


Handmade Goods Store Tagline
As I sit here writing, reflecting on the day, I'm filled with gratitude for this experience. Trinidad is more than just a beautiful town; it’s a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and warmth. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I am also thinking about what to wear tomorrow. I am happy that I brought clothes that are suitable for both warm and cooler temperatures. However, I forgot my rain jacket, which I will need to replace if I want to be prepared for any sudden downpours during the rest of our trip. I also forgot an extra power bank, which is unfortunate, as I am using my phone quite a lot to take pictures and videos and to write my blog articles.

Thinking back to the salsa club, I am reminded of Celia Cruz, the Queen of Salsa, who, like me, left her homeland (Cuba) but carried its spirit in her heart. Her music, full of life and passion, embodies the soul of Latin America. I feel a deep connection to her story, as a Puerto Rican woman living in Germany, always carrying a piece of my island with me.

Maximilian, with his German practicality, is already planning our route for tomorrow, meticulously marking points of interest on his map. He's such a contrast to my spontaneous nature, but somehow, we make a great team. He grounds me, and I encourage him to embrace the unexpected. It’s a balance that works, both in life and in travel.

And now, as the sounds of Trinidad lull me to sleep, I dream of more adventures to come. Goodnight, mis amigos!

P.S. – I tried Canchanchara, a local drink made of rum, honey, and lime. It was amazing! I will try to recreate it at home in Heidelberg, to bring a little bit of Cuba to Germany.