To stay put or go exploring....

I have been feeling unwell the last few days. Nothing major, just not quite myself with a cough and cold. Gustavo gives me some “green” natural medicine and I increase the dosage of a supplement that I brought with me, take some antihistamine and make hot drinks with honey and lime. 

It’s the weekend and I was supposed to be going out with Luiz and his daughter, but he has had to go and give blood to his sick Aunt. I toyed with the idea of going on a tour or on a bus trip (after all I should be making the most of my time here) but I decide to stay put, experience Havana, do some Spanish study and take it easy.

The morning has just flown. I have been listening to Gustavo’s music, studying Spanish and occasionally getting up to practice the hip and shoulder movements. At one point I took a shower and the music was so enticing I just danced around naked for a few minutes, my circolo’s moving me around the room.

My Spanish is improving. By no means fluent, the odd word just pops into my head and I am remembering a few more basic phrases.  

Yesterday Rene told me a bit more about life in Cuba. The health system seems good.  Medical help and medicine are readily accessible, and one surprising fact is that every woman is entitled to 1 year fully paid maternity leave and then 60% of her wages for 2 years. Or she can return to work and her husband can stay at home and be paid 60% of his wages. In either case your job is kept for you.  
  

Lunch is quick and satisfying. Some tuna, cucumber, olives and cheese. I sit on Gustavo’s rocking chair on the balcony and watch the world go by. The old woman across the street is in her usual place, the lady just below her is hanging out her laundry. On the street below 3 dogs sniff each other attentively. One dog suddenly mounts another thrusting vigorously right in the path of passersby who don’t even notice. A fruit vendor sorts out his produce in anticipation of a sale and always the sounds and smells of a smoggy, dense and intense city surround me.

I realise I am feeling good. Content and proud, strong and happy. 

Hasta la vista

Mon x