Getting to Know Varadero

Getting to Know Varadero – April 12 to 13, 2011

Marina Darsena in Varadero  is the perfect location for cruisers.  Thanks to Debbie, whom we met on the docks soon after our arrival, we were able to fast track our local knowledge of the area. Marina Darsena, managed by the Marlin Group, is close enough to the main tourist facilities to access the banks and the internet but far enough away that one does not feel like an all-inclusive tourist. 

 

 

Looking down at the docks from the guard tower.

 

A row of almond trees provides some welcome shade for the walk along the highway to Varadero.

 Freshly picked green almonds. Not very edible.

 

If you are lucky you might find the churro vendor on the corner. Made from a starchy root vegetable and sprinkled with cane sugar they make a tasty fast food snack and will only set you back four or five national pesos.

One of two etecsa offices in Varadero where you can purchase internet time.  Six convertible pesos will buy one hour at one of four government supplied, for foreigners only, PC’s. Sometimes all four are functioning at the same time.  Sometimes not. Sometimes the whole system is down. Expect a line up and don’t forget your passport number.  Cold beer is available across the street just in case. There is a good reason why I am just getting around to updating the blog now.

Live music is everywhere. Tips are expected. 

 

 You know there are lots of Canadian tourists in town when HP sauce shows up on the table.

If you have too much to carry back to the marina there are many private or government owned taxis for hire.

The village of Santa Marta is within walking distance of the marina. Across the highway, ....

.... past the tethered horses, over the abandoned air strip....

 

 ....and through the construcction zone where these new homes are in progress.

 

The market that is open daily except Monday. The government trucks arrive on Sundays but the better quality items are provided by the private vendors on the other days. I also found that there was more variety available from the private vendors. Fresh pork is usually available as well as bacon and smoked pork chops. 

 Some good buys at the Santa Marta market. 

Before the trip home from shopping you might need to “do lunch” at one of the roadside vendors. 

Or go back later for a sit down meal. Dinner for nine with drinks and some ice cream – under $32.