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I was reading the Saturday paper when as usual I zoned in on the travel section. I thought that a nice tropical getaway would be just great right about now. There were tons of deals available, especially to Cuba. We have been there twice in years past - the first time to the northeast side and the second time to Veradero.

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One thing we loved about Veradero is its close proximity to Havana. As we were a group of 8 friends, we managed to book a private day tour to the capital city. When we got there, I felt like we were transported back in time to the 1950's. Images of Che Guevara are everywhere. His role in overtaking the Bastista government has become elevated to almost mythic proportions thanks to Castro. Aside from the political and historic significance of Cuba, what I'll always remember are the amazing collection of 1950's cars and beautiful but austere architecture.

One of many images of Che Guevara
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I was also surprised by how they seem to honour the presence of Ernest Hemingway. Our guides took us to the hotel where Hemingway stayed in the 1930's and 1940's. The cafe/bar on the main level had the most amazing Mohitos which I'll always fondly remember! It was a brutally hot day and that cold, refreshing cocktail hit the spot.

Everywhere we looked there were reminders of the 1950's. I half expected Ricky Ricardo to jump out from somewhere hitting his bongo drums. We had a fantastic day, one to remember forever. We went to Cuba expecting some fun in the sun, but we also got a really great history lesson and a day in a really retro town.

You too can Babaloo with Ricky...