Last night in Matanzas we went out to a paladar (private restaurant).  We had surf (lobster) and turf (pork). Of course our meal included rice and beans, guava fruit soup for dessert.  Four musicians entertained us for most of the meal—loud, good, and very entertaining Latin music.  Sometimes we sang along.  Back to the hotel by 9:30 pm.  

One more traveler contacted COVID so the three sick travelers headed back to Havana.  We headed down the road around 9 am.  Today was a travel day and we headed west.  Bathroom stop and then stopped for lunch/tour at UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (National Park) at LasTerrzas.  The project was developed to preserve and enhance the area.  The. Former farmers are employed taking care of the park.  For instance, the hills had been depleted so they were terraced and then planted with local tree species.  We had lunch - all foods were raised there—the best and tastiest chicken and pork along with rice and beans and squash. After lunch we visited a local artist and bought some souvenirs and we’re on our way.  The local guide was a University graduate, who spoke good English and had a delightful sense of humor. 

Then we headed to Vinales where we are staying in a bed and breakfast.  Wonderful casa owned by Carlos and Maritza. We have our small addition with our own bathroom. Very clean and spacious.  We are going to have breakfast on the roof top in the morning. Now I have to close so we can go out to eat. 

Water-we have been instructed repeatedly to now drink the water. In our rooms.  The bus always fills our bottles.  The restaurants provide a bottle of water Hotels usually have water or you can get it.  Seems like we are always ‘managing’ our water supply. Just part of the trip.  Now we off to dinner.