Tag Archives: Airbnb

Life, Travel

Created in Cuba. 99% Diseno Cubano

When traveling I often search high and low to find something that truly speaks to not only the country but also the culture of its people.  I didn’t have any great expectations when going to Cuba, except for the typical Cuban souvenirs of cigars and rum.  To which I returned with neither of them.  Throughout my travels, I often have a hard time trying to find the right purchases that truly speak to the country.  Visiting Italy and France were surprisingly disappointing when hoping to find unique couture that spoke to their incredibly rich history of fashion.  And it seems across the world we have become so global that these same brands make their appearance around the world.  From the H&M’s to the Zara’s of the world.  Believe me, I mean no disrespect as I’m happy to support them too. However, when I travel I want something authentic and hopefully something that ultimately benefits its people who reside there.  And in this case, I FINALLY was successful.  Although we truly happened to stumble upon this place, it was a total diamond in the rough.  For many of the streets throughout Havana can be a bit questionable in places.  This is what gives this places its rich flavor and diversity though finding this little place, Clandestina was certainly a welcomed and celebrated discovery.

Clandestina is a boutique that offers upcycled EVERYTHING.  From t-shirts, to cosmetic bags and totes- their entire inventory had lived a previous life as something else before.  Since I am such a bag lady I decided a Cuba cosmetic bag was an essential take away from this adorable store.  I also found the “need” to purchase a neon green handkerchief donned with T-Rex all over it.  (Imagine, the heat in Havana is so intense, I justified this purchase by thinking I’d use this to keep myself dry in the humidity of the city)  Haha.  Whatever helped justify something I didn’t truly need.  Though I felt the need to support this business.  Not only was it a way to repurpose but also a new hope for Havana- cleaning up what otherwise would end up in the trash and instead offered the elderly of Cuba a chance to make money.  So, apparently my purchase was justified from the moment I walked in the door.  Besides, we were on a People to People trip- no better way to contribute than in supporting and promoting their efforts and forward thinking.

It was apparent through this trip that many are trying to move Cuba forward, past all the struggle and open to creating new opportunities for all.  We rented an AirBnB and on the last day of our stay, the woman who came to clean our place told us about the reality of making money in Cuba.  As she sat at the table folding white paper and glueing them together to make envelopes for Tourist to purchase items from the locals- like myself.  I noticed I already had many of these same bags in my possession from shopping the local markets, that she had made for the tourists.  The sad part about it all was that she had to make 100 of these envelopes to make $1.00.  Talk about perspective.  This is where you truly dive into the culture and it’s people to see how people are living across the world.  She was such a hard worker with the most incredible spirit.  Instantly my friend and I realized here was another chance to give back to the people of Cuba.  We left her Nike’s, Michael Kors sandals, a boat load of toiletries and so on.  It was the least we could do to support this woman who was striving to make a difference in her life however she could.  She showed us the incredible spirit and dedication to keep moving forward to create the Cuba that this society has yearned for, for lifetimes.  Cuba Libre!!

For your chance to support their efforts-
http://clandestinacuba.com

Culture, Travel

Iceland, the land of magic

For a few years now, I’ve wanted to check out the magical mystery of Iceland.  Though to be honest, it wasn’t quite at the top of the list.  Though timing just happened to be perfect for a new excursion in what would end up being one of the most unique adventures of a lifetime!  And like most wanderlust spirits, there are many places that we’re naturally drawn to, from a passion to experience a new culture, new land or simply to explore and experience life in some place that is foreign to us.  Then there’s Iceland, which offers all of that and then some!!

Often when booking trips, I do a bit of preliminary research, “instagram scouring” and the like, though I typically wait to commit to plans, until I’ve had a chance to take in some of the local suggestions to ensure I’m fully able to indulge in all the flavors, sights and culture of the country once there.

I grabbed a gal pal, scored a deal on WOW Air, booked a spectacular Airbnb flat and off we went.  We arrived at the crack of dawn on a freeeeeeezing winter day, after no sleep on your standard red eye and yet fired up and inspired to take it all in.  We took the first day to wander the streets and harbor of Reykjavik.  It’s a quaint little city and quite small indeed.  In fact, the entire population of Iceland is approximately 300,000 so you can imagine, the city tends to feel rather familiar in no time at all.  Which, in turn, makes it even more welcoming!  In fact, it’s so small that even as we drove for hours and miles out in the middle of nowhere, we still managed to run into the same couple all around the Island- on three separate occasions.  Sadly, however, this did not mean a run-in with Bjork as I was hoping.

After checking out our new “home” for the next week we headed off to check out Þingvellir National Park, which is a beautiful drive through vast snow covered, and at times, quite barren land.  With that being said, let me suggest that whenever there’s a gas station along the drive whether on the golden circle or simply around Iceland- stop.  This was suggested to me and I was beyond thankful to be overly cautious about it as there were times when it felt as though gas or no gas, you could easily get stranded out on the road.  The funny thing about Iceland is you’ll see at many souvenir shops items that say: I Survived Iceland.  And although funny and cheeky in some ways, it’s legit.  From the driving to some activities- it can be an bit intense experience. From within the park, we toured around the see the famous Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall that are located within the park.  They’re in close proximity to one another, so it’s a great way to check off and enjoy both wonders in the same afternoon.

Day 2, after a few drinks celebrating our arrival and first night out…oh and a few hours of sleep (Jet lag….what’s Jet lag when you’re running on pure adrenaline and enthusiasm!) , we were once again off for another day of exploration.  We arrived again in the park with some time to spare for a hike around to see some sights before our first Icelandic adventure began.  Snorkeling in a balmy -2 degrees celsius at Silfra.  This is the only place in the world where you can dive between two continents   Although the thought of immersing yourself in such frigid waters for a tour seems not overly welcoming, it is by far something that must be seen.  So, toughen up for an hour or so, throw on your flippers and dive on in!  The stunning turquoise waters and unique experience will be worth your while.  Plus, when else can you swim between and touch two continents at the same time.  Don’t miss it.

As you venture off throughout the country, be sure to keep your eye out for the Icelandic horses, typically hanging out on the side of the road…simply waiting for your arrival and adoration.  Which is not hard to do, as they are simply adorable creatures!  In fact, there is much to see along the way.  From waterfalls on the side of the road, to stunning landscapes for miles and miles, the road trip itself reinforces the idea of enjoying the journey….not just the destination.  So, with some good tunes, a full tank of gas, a big cup of Joe and a spirit ready for adventure, the road and all it’s sights await you within Iceland.  Enjoy the ride!