Here's the story of my trip to Cuba
in 2000.
The Story (not)
I really crapped out on recording the trip. I was so happy with
the page about my Montreal trip, I tried to start writing an hour
by hour report about the Cuba trip after I got home. Overwhelmed
by details, I stopped after writing about the first of 8 days.
That day was Tuesday the 15th.
The Summary
I went, and it cost me a pretty chunk of change to fly. I flew
from DC to Cancun, and after a long layover from Cancun to Havana.
Heavy baggage costs a lot extra. Mexican baggage handlers don't
care about the deep puddle your bag is in. My fencing was mediocre,
and I placed 65th by as small a margin as possible under the current
FIE rules. The food was horrible, even at expensive restaurants.
The people were all very nice, and most things were very cheap
compared to U.S. prices. The cabs were cool, mostly old (1950's)
American cars. The beach was absolutely beautiful. The rum was
excellent, and the Mojito is now my favorite mixed drink. Real
Cubans don't know what a "Cuban Sandwich" is, so don't ask for one.
Cuba 2000
I do hope to go back this year. Hopefully the USFA won't get fascist
on us and limit entries, especially since that would be contrary
to the wording of the FIE's instructions for fencers entering world
cups in their "zone".
Things to remember
- Pack light.
- Don't think a 7 hour layover in Cancun will be at all fun.
- Make sure all fencing gear is in watertight luggage.
- Don't go too many days before the event.
- Don't expect to eat well while there.
- Practice Spanish.
- Stay at least a few days after the event and see the area.
- Bring swimsuit.
- Bring lots of small bills, it can be hard to change a $20.
- Bring home more rum!
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