March 31, 2017
On our last day in Cuba, we visited a beautiful farm in the small town of Alcalá, about an hour and a half away from Holguín. Getting to this farm was probably the most challenging part of the day as our tour bus could not drive through a patch of fertilizer previously spilled on the steep road. Everyone had to wake up from their early morning siestas (naps) to get off the tour bus and watch as the driver fearlessly revved the large bus up the hill.
After finally arriving at the farm we learned about how coffee beans are pounded, ground, and boiled into some amazing Cuban coffee; Starbucks could never compete. The owner of the farm prepared fruits, coconut nougats, and sugar cane rods for a nice late morning snack. Among the available fruits were coconut, mangos, guavas, bananas, and cherimoya (a Cuban fruit).
After our eventful morning, we drove further down the farm to enjoy horseback riding, incredible rustic views, and a flowing river. The views we absorbed atop our horses left us speechless: green mountains and valleys decorated the Cuban landscape and the blue skies and farmed lands accessorized that beauty. After dismounting our horses, we jumped into the river, discovered how cold it was, and were very grateful for the cool water, given the hot and humid weather. Then we ate lunch which consisted of a soup called caldosa, rice, beans, and pork. Our final excursion in Cuba could not have gone any better.
Upon our return to the church, we went out to shop for souvenirs and other knick-knacks. Many of us discovered that throughout this trip, our bargaining skills have really improved. Two of us bought three wooden animal figurines for just 5 pesos! Our last dinner of the trip was a combination of pasta and traditional Cuban dishes that satisfied our final wishes before leaving this wonderful country. None of us want to leave behind the rice and beans, ice cream, and seasoned Cuban meat, and of course the wonderful people we have met this week, and most of us have agreed that this will not be our last time in Cuba.
As we rest tonight, we will reflect upon the culture, people, and lifestyle that we have observed in our short time in Cuba. We will leave tomorrow with heavy hearts but the love and compassion we feel will never be lost. Adiós, Cuba. Hasta la próxima vez! (Until we meet again!)
Donovan
Moises
