Shorewoods Photography-Boarding Group 2 Travel Blog

We woke before sunrise to begin our introduction to Havana by daylight. The sky was filled with whispers of cotton candy clouds, highlighted by a blue sky backdrop.

The emerging light cast a golden glow onto the architectural features of buildings, making their weather and time worn textures stand out. One of the advantages to making photos this early in the morning is capturing the time where early sun and street light mix together; setting the stage for the transition of night to day.

We walked to the harbor, where a group of fishermen were casting their lines into the glass smooth water. A few people were out enjoying a morning walk, including this gentleman and his dog. Slowly the streets became busier with cars.

We continued our walk down Paseo de Mart, a magnificent, tiled promenade. Majestic large planters and statues intersperse the path, and we can imagine how this might have appeared in its glory with blooming flowers filling and overflowing the planters.

It is quiet as we stroll along, making photos of the light waking on the buildings, and reflected in puddles of leftover rain from the evening before.

This morning is filled with more discoveries. The streets reveal all the details hidden in the dark of night. Making photos in the streets of Havana in the light of day also introduces us to sights, sounds and aromas of the street. Amazing architecture surrounds us, requiring more than a passing glance to appreciate the detail and artistry.

We returned to the hotel for breakfast, and then head out in our sweet rides to Cojimar. Cojimar is in eastern Havana, and is a small fishing town.

We passed the Hemingway Monument as we walked the path to the Tower of Cojimar. Hemingway spent a great deal of time here, and it is where he was inspired to write The Old Man and The Sea.

Cojimar Bay nestles into a quiet village, and we meet some children playing in the park, and neighbors as we walk along the street.

Our next stop is to Cafe Ajiaco, where we will have a cooking class, Mojito making lesson, and visit the cafe’s urban gardens where they grow ingredients for the restaurant. We then enjoyed a true feast of authentic Cuban cuisine.

The food was delicious, and the drinks were plentiful! Art and I are now big fans of Mint Mojitos.

After lunch we returned to downtown Havana to continue our exploration, including the afternoon thunderstorm/downpour. We were invited into a neighborhood alley and covered courtyard during the heaviest rains.

The rain lightened and we resumed our walk. We came upon a group of children riding a big wheel through puddles in the street. They were happy to pose for their pictures to be taken, and equally happy to see themselves on camera.

There are so many opportunities for capturing moments of life in Havana!

Our camera cards are full as we return to the hotel to rest and get ready for another exciting day tomorrow! We are captivated by the welcoming people, along with the sights and tastes we experienced. Havana by day was a true treasure!