View Full Version : Havana
DocBill;
That is exactly what I meant.
I truly believe the days are numbered for the travel ban. The purpose is long past, there are no positive results for either side and most importantly, I do believe there are constitutional issues which if properly raised, the Supreme Court will hear and decide in favour of travel.
Presidential poper foes have limits but can be effective until overruled. I think if there had been a challenge to Executive Order 9066, it would have fallen quickly (but maybe not uncer the circumstances).
I'm sending you a PM asking a favour when you are in Habana.
Enjoy.
Spock.
Glad to hear someone believes the travel ban days are numbered. I hope so. However the number of days calculate approximately to 365 times 5 as the present resident of the White House (and most likely the next term) plus his brother in Florida are not supporters of lifting the ban.
This forum is not a place for politics, but let’s be realistic on this subject. If you want to travel to Cuba legally asap, start petitioning in your area and/or write your congressman so this subject obtains the proper media coverage. There’ll be plenty of supporters in South Florida as starters. Only then with the right individuals with expertise in the constitutional laws as well as lobbying the supreme court justices (is that possible?) can a favorable decision benefit American travelers and the general Cuban population.
Many of you guys are incorrect.
It is not a travel ban. You have the right to travel there.
It is a ban on spending money in Cuba. Thats why your credit cards don't work there.
However if you go there it is presumed that you spent money there. You must prove you did not, which is hard to prove. Many of the guys who took boats to Hemingway marina and just got out to look around are being fined when they come back to Key West.
If you go you must take cash to spend.
Best approach is to bring nothing back in your suitcase and if questioned tell the immigration officer that you vacationed in the gateway country. They do not stamp your passport in Cuba so there is no evidence you went there.
Hope this clears things up.
Anyone can help with CIGARS information.
Where does one go to in Havana to get LEGITIMATE Cuban cigars, and not counterfeit.
What are the prices like?
Cigars are never to be bought on he street. Never ever. They are filled badly, and are not to be enjoyed. In the regular shops the Montecristo A (IMHO the very, very best Havannas) are priced 428 US $ a 25er box. These take you well through the best part of 2 hours, without tasting bad. I´ve heard stories of one of these babies costing 75 US$ in the states. Here in Europe, the prices vary, but they are never half as crazy as in the US of A. Reason for this being the embargo of course, therefore everything has to go through neighboring countries somehow.
Buy them in the Cigar shops in the hotels in Habana, the shops for expats (e.g. in Marina Hemingway) or when you leave in the "duty free" area. There is a Cigar shop in the old factory in Habana vieja, I think, but I´ve never been there.
Visit the factory in Viñales/Piñar del Rio if you must, and look at the tobacco fields and the Mogotes, too (strange hills). Take your chica there, most of them never left Habana, or only their hometown for Habana, and you might find yourself getting a BBBJ in a pond under a waterfall, like you always dreamed it would be in paradise. I did. Will be back January and definitely go there again. Some impressive caves (cuevas del indio) as well.
Ok, I got carried away, from the topic. Hope you don´t mind. Saludos a Clinton ;-) everybody knos you can get aids from sex, only he knows it can be the other way round.
Brethren,
As I plan my foray into Cuba I have read, and reread posts from the experienced amongst you. I am sure they will serve me well in Havana Heaven. Now I have some questions regarding the infamous police that maintain the separation of locals from the "valued" tourist:
Does the police wear recognizable uniforms, if not how would I recognize them? Are they typically on foot, in cars or horse back?
Assuming no obvious infraction, do they request to see one's passport when accompanied by a local chica (either her's or mine)?
Does the police request to see the passport of tourists when unaccompanied i.e. harass the tourist population that may venture into "local" areas?
Can anyone give me an overview of the attitude of the policia in Havana and perhaps some do's and don'ts while taking the chica into the "casa" for action?
Separately, I have read in earlier post where many have suggest the best way to get the chicas is by "looking like a tourist", yet the local woman -- I am told, get harassed by the policia if it is expected that she is "entertaining" a tourist -- what gives?
Does anyone know how prevalent the telephone is, cell or land? Note: its not obvious to me how one would rendezvous with a chica; perhaps its either sex now or never!
Damn, I was always told I had analysis paralysis!
Thanks
El Cubanito
12-21-03, 18:19
Macgoo
The policia in Cuba is very noticiable and in the Tourist area you will find a policia about every block. If you to Calle 23 by Havana Libre, every block has a policia in the corner.
As far as getting stop by the policia, They will ask for your passport if you are a foreigner. As soon as they see a American Passport the policia will leave you alone. Now, the chica who might be with you her info will be retrieve and her info run against the computer. If she has been busted before for jinetera (Prosititute), she will be in big trouble once she leaves your side. They will not bust her there in front of you, the policia will come to her house later and bust her then. This I have experience first hand. I help a chica out by going down to the police station and telling them she was giving me directions to my casa because I did not know how to get to my casa from Santa maria Beach in Havana. Aparently she had goten busted before and when they stop my car they took her info ran it against the compute and up she came. She wnated to treat me later on when they release her, but I told her no and I took her to her house.
Macgoo, I hope this helps.
El Cubanito
Lap Dancer
12-22-03, 06:44
for snark hunter & man,
i think this is an entirely appropriate forum to discuss cigars. after all if you are going to napa you are going to sample some of the wine. cuba is simply an awesome place to smoke cigars.
the best place that i have found to buy legitimate cigars is the store in the hotel nacional. it has a great selection and a very nice lounge to smoke them. it is usually not crowded and the staff are quite knowledgeable. i have visited the cigar factory in habana viejo and i think nacional has a better selection. that store is usually crowded with tourists and touts swarm around it.
at the beginning of my trip i usually buy a number of singles and try them out. my favorite are romeos but it is all a matter of personal preferenece. the size and shape of a cigar will affect its taste. generally the longer and larger have a stronger taste especially as it burns down.
there have been a number of reports warning not to buy cigars that are hustled on the street. they all mention that they have some kind of relative working at the factory. some may in fact be legitimate but even if they are you could be searched at the airport and required to produce a receipt. if not they will be confirep001ed. i have heard that some are just dried banana leaves wrapped in tobacco.
prices are about 25-30% of canadian prices
for macgoo
the cops have cheap grey baseball caps and grey shirts and pants and are everywhere in the tourist areas. no horses, some have cars.
one suggestion about passports. if you are staying at a decent hotel leave it in your safe and carry around a photocopy. police will not hassle you if you are just walking around. the only time i had even a warning was when i walked too close to the us embassy.
if you are just picking up a girl to bang her then they will generally know where to go. sometimes it can be quite funny. i was out with a chica and the older couple she was living with. it was very late at night and we spent about an hour banging on doors in an apartment building. finally a middle aged woman answers the door and kicked her husband out of bed. he plopped himself down in front of the tv. his wife changed the sheet, the couple left and then we went at it. in my experiences police have never a problem.
for longer term i think that you will have to explore. someone could recommend a place and when you arrive in cuba you find that it has been closed. people will offer to show you a casa particular (for a cut) and you will have to negotiate what you are looking for up front.
i have not had an encounter with the police there but from my understanding the police are not after you. they do not want to be a problem for tourists (crucial to the economy), unless you [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) them off or are doing drugs. be careful of bribes - it could be taken the wrong way as some of these guys are real communists. the majority of the times you will be let go - some times you may have to go down to the station. be careful though that you are not with a minor - that could be a problem. most likely they will go after the girl and it will be severe. she has much more to lose than you do - so she will naturally be careful.
with regard to phones, they are not everywhere so sometimes when the girl gives you a number it could be a neighbour. your spanish will have to be quite good to make them understand.
all the best boys - great to see so much activity on this board.
Yossarian 99
12-22-03, 10:31
Macgoo,
Most cops will not hassle a girl for talking to you. Public displays of affection may be something different, though.
In any case, you are asking questions that can easily be figured out once you land on the ground.
Just go, dude!
Yos.
I'm in Trinidad now. I've been keeping a daily diary. I don't have much time to post. Internet is very slow and expensive. I've been in Cuba a few days. It's totally different than anywhere I've been. Not mongering much. Funny I don't have too much desire here and I thought I would. It's a nice vacation though. I went Scuba diving this morning. Spending a few days in Trinidad then heading back to Havana. I saw 2 girls from Johnny's Rio Club. One was a 10. I'll post about her later. She was bad in bed though. A trophy score though. So far I'm not too impressed with Cuba. It's a good place to relax but I won't be running back to come back.
I'm still here over two more weeks. The food is horrible! Whatever low expectations you have multiple it by 100. It truly sucks. More later when I get back.
Saint
OttoGraham
12-22-03, 22:04
Sainty old boy, the commercial food in ANY Communist country is terrible. Now, if you met some real people in Cuba, not trixies, but some real people, such as small-time farmers, you could very well have quite a repast, especially if you would pony up the money to pay for it and allowed your hosts to do the marketing and cooking.
There are a very few semi-private restaurants in Cuba (apartments, really) which are reputed to have good classic Cuban cooking. But unfortunately I don't remember the place I read this (and even if I did, the police could very well have closed them down since then!).
If you want some really excellent Cuban cooking, I recommend.......... Miami. ;)
-Uncle Otto
El Cubanito
12-24-03, 21:48
Saint,
Let me know if you want to go to some good place for food in Havana. I will give addresses and Telephone number.
El Cubanito
Place to stay in Havana
Hi,
Can you recommend any hotel or casa particular in Havana which is:
A) Located centrally
B) Safe i.e. stuff doesn't disappear from your room
C) Liberal view of bringing chicas to the room
Regards
Jean
to whom it ma concern:
Even if I may have difficulties getting a seat next time I go there: Te Gringo Viejo is excellent for food. Very nice cooking, very small place, though.
Pedregal is good as well, Rancho Palco recommendable, even for wines. Credit cards welcome at least in teh last two places.
Enjoy!
El Cubanito
Why wait to post the info on the Havana dining ?
By the time he asks and you reply 2 days could pass.
Just thinking ahead.
Starfe
Gringo Viejo: calle 21 No. 454 e/ Ey F, vedado, C. Habana, Tel.: 831 1946
El Rancho Palco: calle 140 y 19 Reparto Cubanacan, Playa, Tel.: 208 9346
Enjoy!
Oh, well, I am going to share with you...
Prado y Neptuno (which is also the address), well known for authentic (YESSSS!) italian cuisine, a hard to find experience. One of the owners is often seen there (el Gordo, an entertainer which will be a top-experience for your chica, because he just never stops his jokes, even when eating/drinking, to understand him you really need to know the local jerga).
Here´s some description (although in spanish):
En este sitio cercano al Paseo del Prado, en la céntrica esquina de Prado y Neptuno, se ubica el restaurante del mismo nombre. Lugar donde floreció la Bodega de Alonso en el siglo XIX y en la primera mitad del XX, el elegante Café Las Columnas y el Restaurante Miami, más tarde nombrado Caracas y por último Budapest. Este legendario espacio, actualmente diseñado con audaz originalidad por el afamado arquitecto italiano Gottardi, se especializa en la comida italiana.
Entre sus platos fundamentales se encuentran la lasagna casera y el espaguetis a la carbonara. También sus postres, confeccionados en la Casa, como el exquisito Tiramisú, constituyen manjares del arte culinario italiano. El bar, por su parte, ofrece una amplia coctelería nacional e internacional. La música italiana e internacional en vivo ameniza su estancia. A Prado y Neptuno continúa brindando un genuino sabor, ahora con la propuesta de comer a la italiana.
If you made it all the way through this text, here´s a webpage to look at:
http://www.habaguanex.com/restaurantes/home.asp
have fun
El Cubanito
12-26-03, 17:35
Starfe,
You are right! He is a link that has a list of about 60 places to eat throughout Cuba. Here is the link:
http://cubanow.org/restorants/
My favorite place in Havana is:
La Cocina de Lilliam
Calle 48 No. 1311,
between 13 and 15 Playa in Miramar
Telephone 29-6514
Saint, I hope this helps you.
El Cubanito
first time poster, first time mongerer.
i recently returned from a cuban vacation. a couple of buddies and i did a 3 day havana/ 4 day resort type vacation package. this was just going to be a regular type vacation. we weren't really familiar with the havana sex scene. but it didn't matter what our intentions were. four late 30ish/ early 40ish white boys walking out of the hotel libre meant the cuban's assumed we there for one thing and they reminded us constantly that it was available. a cuban guy latched on to our group. these guys can be annoying, but when you find an ok guy, their services can be very valueable, especially if they speak english and you don't speak spanish and you don't know your way around.
we proceeded to an outdoor bar. a couple of young girls sat a couple of tables over from us. i noticed one of them was really cute and pointed her out to my friends. at that point, the cuban guy left the table. i thought he went to the can. next thing i know, the girl i was checking out was sitting next to me. she was just smiling at me and staring into my eyes. she was stunning! the cuban guy told me if i wanted her, she is mine. this is all new to me. i've never been put in this position before. i knew i had to take the chance. passing up sex is not an option for me. i'm a nice, quiet guy so getting laid back home is pretty much impossible.
the cuban guy, the girl and i walked towards a street running parallel to la rampa st. where he knew of a casa. this was close to the hotel libre area. the girl agreed to $30. she didn't really seem too interested in haggling over money. as we walked towards the casa, the cuban guy took the girls arm in his and told me to walk back around 20 ft. so the girl and i weren't seen together. when we got to the casa i tipped the cuban guy and payed the casa owner $25 and went to the room.
i was really nervous. i had visions of the girl just lying there staring at her watch, not being into the whole thing. i sat down next to her and couldn't believe it when she grabbed me and started french kissing me. she really seemed to be enjoying herself. we had a great time! not just the sex, but goofing around, having some laughs just like i was with a real girlfriend. it was a great experience. however there were some problems. after around 1 1/2 hours, the casa owner said time was up. we ignored him for another hour, but he kept knocking on the door. now that i look back, maybe i should of payed him after i was done.
another problem was that as we were leaving, we noticed around 5 policemen loitering outside the casa. the girl kissed me and waved me to go on ahead. i may as well have been invisible as i walked by the police. they hardly even looked at me. i walked up the street slowly, hoping the girl would be by shortly. i couldn't see her. i hung around outside the hotel libre for a while hoping to see her walk by but i never saw her again. i have to admit i was worried about her. to this day, i still feel guilty about me being able to just walk by the police and her having to fend for herself. i was high on booze and life because i had just gotten laid by a babe and i wasn't thinking straight.
anyway, that's my report. thanks for listening. it's probably pretty lame compared to the other reports. any feedback is welcome. in conclusion, i am dying to go back to cuba. i think the women are there and they are willing. the challenge is going to be finding a place to have sex with them. also i think there were quite a few girls that looked **** (16-17years) out there trying to hook up. i think i will be insisting on seeing id in the future. the selection of adult girls was too good to risk ending up in jail.
HAS ANYONE ELSE BEEN THIS STUPID?
Henry David Thoreau said: If misery loves company, misery has company enough, so I'm looking for company here. While this is my story, it can apply to a woman also.
Before going to Cuba early this month, I started a correspondence with a lady whom I hoped to have a relationship with (not simply "get laid" as has been said).
We exchanged notes in email, albeit having to use translations since I speak no Spanish and she speaks no English. Still, she came on very positive and soon said she was looking for a "serious" relationship, aka most likely marriage. I had no problem with having this as a consideration as she came across in email as very sweet and her pictures were enough to revive the imagination of a dying hermit.
I arrived and met her and her family at the airport. Her family seemed and probably are sincere people who I believe to be very honest.
Although I had planned on touring Cuba for the week, I ended up hanging out with the family most of the time. This worked out OK, since the Father spoke decent English.
I tried to develop a relationship with the lady/daughter but it was a real problem with language, or so I thought.
I had no problem buying food for the family since they had me for dinner two times in their house. I also took them to dinner on two occasions at places where they could never go. I also took the daugher on a "shopping trip" since she needed clothing. All in all and without being asked, I spend close to US$500 for the lady and her family. When I left, I gave her a $100 bill as a Christmas present.
The interpersonal relationship I had hoped would start to develop never progressed past a few friendly kisses (cousin type, no emotional/physical response) and some hand-holding. I was never one to force any issue nor did I ever treat her with anything less than total respect.
Near the end of my stay, the daughter asked me to buy her a computer ($500) so she could use it at home although she has no internet connection. There now came more requests for "things."
Without going into more details, after I left and we continued to email, it became clear she wanted a lot from me and none of it had to do with a serious relationship outside of material things. It was the classic "carrott on a stick" game making vague promisses of "things to come" when I returned. In an email after I returned, she also said she had a lady friend who wanted to contact me for assistance having my lady "friend" get a letter of invitation to come to Costa Rica to work. Sound familiar?
I finally painfully concluded with the help of two objective friends, one of which was with me in Cuba and met and spoke with this lady, that I was being taken for a ride. I was used proving the old saying, "There is no fool like an old fool."
And defore anyone takes to tell me why they think I am negative, let me state one thing very directly. NO!!! I'm not complaining because we did not end up in bed. That wasn't my reason for going to Cuba or meeting her. My complaint is having been used or more accurately, allowing my trust to be used against me.
So has anyone here had a similar experience? Any I did read the "sad Cuban love story" and thought about it when deciding to write this novella.
Thanks.
Spock.
Thai Diesel
12-30-03, 06:45
Hi Everybody,
I've read quite a bit of infos on Cuba. Would like to try it out, however, there's a legality problem. I'm sure you all know about US Citizens are banned from going to Cuba. What is or are my possiblities of getting around all of that political bs? Any advice or help would be greatly appreciated.
Dran Reb:
Many of the girls in Habana are real pros but you sound as if you found a nice girl who may just enjoy sex as much as she need to make a few extra $$s. If you don't understand the economics of Cuba, check out the archives here or one of the other travel boards about the pay scale for Cubans and the cost of many necessary items.
If you want a private place and to really meet some Cuban people, next time get a casa particular (private home) which will run you about $25. Get a private entrance and your own key and you should have no problems. Much better and cheaper than any hotel. If you don't get a private entrance, simply ask the casa owner if it's OK to have a Cuban lady "friend" over. If "no problem" then no problem.
My most enjoyable experience when I was in Cuba in early December (this year) was with a school teacher who I met at a disco. 31 years old and doesn't smoke. Since I speak no Spanish and she only spoke a little English, I had my friend who speaks Spanish ask her how much to "get together." She responded "nothing." I could afford that.
We went to her place and had a fine time but my heart went out to her since her "home" looked more like an abandoned warehouse being demolished. I could only tell it was a residence because it had a working phone. When I left I gave her $30 and some presents small. She never asked for one thing. I took her number and on my last night in cuba took her out to dinner at a very nice restaurant which would rival any Beverly Hills place. We went back to my casa and enjoyed the evening. Never a word about $$.
When I had her leave at 0300 since I was also leaving to catch an early flight out, I gave her a Christmas present of a $100 bill. She started to cry. When I go back in February, it will be my pleasure to hopefully see her again.
This was a lady and a real jewel. Treat all the ladies with respect and it will come back to you ten-fold with a true GFE.
Spock
Estoy Negro
12-30-03, 12:26
Dran Reb,
I never been to Cuba, because coming from NYC its hard and you risk getting caught. I've had similar experiences in Dominican Republic, Jamacia, Costa Rica & Singapore, some good, some bad, but you learn from them and move on. Some women treat you better and don't know if your going to see them tomorrow. Some treated me better than women in America who claimed they wanted to spend the rest of there life with me & have my children. Amazing, but I realized the money and gifts we give them is on a need and gotta have basis for some, not all, but especially if there uneducated with more than 2 children & no man at home. What can they do? (Then again I've met some girls I think if they lived anywhere else they would be stone cold freaks, just to damn good) One guy there told me that this is the life for them, so if he lives there and can say that so easily, then what could I do, except enjoy & treat them nice.
I've fallen hard, but since my partners I travel with have hearts of stone, they quickly brought me back to reality. Now I just have fun & when I meet a really nice one I try to go back and see her again & resist the temptation of falling for the sad sob stories. I could say more but not to waste space, you can say now I'm a pro having fun with the pros. IT'S ALL ABOUT GAME.
PS Photo of a pro who in America, I couldn't have gotten for $30 and breakfast. Would have taken alot more than a 15 minute conversation & a few beers. No buying any big material items & promises of love.
Lap Dancer
12-30-03, 23:42
For Thai Diesel - There is tons of info on this board in the General Info section. You might also want to call A. Nash Travel in Toronto - Saint has posted the website - and they can give you advice.
For Dran Reb - Hey any report is interesting - you are now a participant!
Talosian, a hopeless romantic (I mean that in a good way) and a literary one at that!!
Without getting into the morality of the Cubans or the politics etc. and looking at the practical situation - I want you to promise us here and now, as a new year's resolution, not to be too hard on yourself. Obviously this situation got to you.
The reality is that many people walk away with those kinds of stories from Cuba. I know of a Canadian that worked in Cuba, married a Cuban girl and brought her back to Canada. Once she had her papers, divorced him, married her Cuban boyfriend and brought him to Canada. She had him fooled for over a year!
Are all Cubans like this - of course not (your second report shows how warm and kind they can be). But there are some that will come after tourists (if you are fishing go where the fish are). The thing is that there is not much to do on the island so that have lots of time to think up schemes and lots of time to practice. They are playing with a different rule book then you and I. It is all about survival. Also some foreigners are pretty rough on the chicas as well (Mexican, Italian etc.).
Let's face it they are good at the craft. They are warm and charming and some of the woman are truly gorgeous. It is not hard to be suckered in.
Also not all are like that - but there are some that seek out tourists to con - in small or large ways.
A real estate friend of mine once gave me this advice - when buying do not fall in love with one house - fall in love with two. I think the same thing applies to Cuban chicas. The thing is that you have options when you go there - lots of options. In your own country women may be difficult but in Cuba - a foreigner with a good heart is a serious catch for a large proportion of the female population - no matter age or looks. So you don't have to jump at the first one - another will be by (probably in ten minutes)
Chalk up the experience to a lesson learned, ($600 US in the grand scheme of things is not a huge amount - look at it as a university course), make yourself a mojito, and make a toast that you are going to be a whole lot wiser on your next trip.
And also take a bow for sharing your experience - for the good of all mongers!!!
Organicgrowth
12-31-03, 04:52
Talosian,
Please check your PM in a couple of days RE: being stupid.. and no, you are not...
Regards, Havanaman
Organicgrowth
12-31-03, 05:05
Gentlemen,
Having been away from the board for some time: not in a position to report (internet access, too busy and generally having fun…) I am now ready to report, but some general comments. Please: no one should take offence, it is not intended and so don’t flame me.
Talosian, Your first visit post was exceptional. I’m so happy that you had a good time in Havana, and I wish you luck with your future visits. I agree with your comments: there is good and bad in this city. The important thing is to compare it “like for like”. I’m sure that your next visit will be even more rewarding, now that you have seen “how the land lies” and have some contacts. PM me your next trip details: I’m trying to plan 5 days in Feb / March. Hook-up?
Saint: As always it was good to meet up with you at the Inglatera, even for that short time. Hey, what did you make of the chica who was with me? She was the anti-prostitution chica I have mentioned in the past, and the main prize of my trial in Havana: beautiful, extreme GFE, and get this: not interested in commitment. In her own words (excellent English) “…life is too short, lets enjoy today…”. As I mentioned to you, this chica exploded my world and it was worth returning to Havana for the 2 days with her.
Gentlemen: To make life easier for all of us, especially new people looking for Havana information, lets keep the posts on cigars, on the “general board”, and reserve this board for chica-reports / methods.
Regards, Havanaman
Organicgrowth
12-31-03, 05:22
Gentlemen,
The original plan was to have a week in Havana, a week in Buenos Aires and then head home. However, Saint and DocBill’s thread got me so tempted I had to modify my plans to spend an additional couple of days in Havana. The intention being to hook-up with these gentlemen. Sorry Doc’: time and circumstances were against our meeting. Next time?
This trip was a continuation of The Trial (reported in detail earlier, so no need for basics here). In 7 nights, paid for a chica only once, and that was because my flight got in very late and it was not possible to meet any of my friends.
That first night was full of adventure: sexual and otherwise. OK, so its 1am, I’ve eaten, I shot a glance at the Cabaret Nacional (empty), walked La Rampa and the Prado (nothing tasty) in either. I’m walking home via the Malecon (land side) and just by one of the all-night bars make long distance eye contact with a young little thing. Passing her, a hand pulls my arm into the doorway. A beer later we take a taxi to my place. The taxi leaves, its now 2.30am, the adventure begins. At the front building entrance I discover that I have lost my keys. Shit. Stay cool, what now? After some considerable door knocking to no avail, we head to the nearest open bar. Its looking like not only am I not getting any action, I’m also going to be sitting in a bar all night. In my bad Spanish I negotiate the possibility of a room for the night. Exploitation exists in many forms and being a hardened “tourist” I expected it. $30 for the night. I found out after that the barman had got his family to move out of their home for me…. If this does not fully express the economic situation in Havana I do not know what will. If I had know this at the time, I’d have asked somewhere else, but I think the story would have been the same. Anyway, a bed for the night was had, a chica was on my arm and all was well with the world. Now, not having access to my own apartment meant not having access to condoms. My chica had just one which turned out to be from china and made from recycled bicycle-inner tubes. This thing was 2mm thick give or take a nanometer! So I opted for a night of BBBJ’s. By 7am, I was rested, serviced, ready to hunt-down the landlord, had a smile on my face and the chica had lockjaw. Chica $25 TLN. Expensive night in comparison to others to come, but nice nonetheless.
Contact made with my 2 best chicas from the trial back in November. At this point I must make a confession. I have lost the path of the true monger. These 2 chicas have taken my heart. As no money was involved: its real. OK, so we all pay in one way or another (food, gifts, travel etc.), but hey the act of getting everything (company, comfort and ‘freely’ given-and-received sex) I mean genuine GFE is something else. When you have more than one, its heaven indeed for any man. What more can I say? Is anyone else trying this “Trial” ?
Police: Again heavy presence, but nothing to be concerned about as a green-back carrying tourist. Stay within the law and walk with your held high. I normally do not carry my passport, just a photocopy. I would only ever produce the copy in extreme circumstances: why give out your details to the chica or the police if you don’t have to?
Weather: Nov. Dec. Starts getting cold and the rain-shower frequency increases. In both November & December I got drenched more than once. I hate carrying an umbrella, so ducking into a café or shop became a habit. This has its advantages as I made contact with many a regular chica at a social level. This is good for information, practicing my Spanish and off course has the potential to go to a higher level if I wanted. You just have to love the Cuban social style. They are very eager to communicate. I suspect this is more of a psychological function due to inherent restrictions imposed by the brutal and bearded regime. For nights, take a jacket in Nov. & Dec.
Politics: As a monger I would urge you not to get involved. Lets just say that there are “watchers” who watch the “watchers”. Yes indeed. The apartment I was in at San Rafael, just behind the university had a resident “watcher” who apparently reports on the activity of people in that street. This is quite common and something new to me. I was asked by the landlord to take care who I opened the door to and also who I spoke with in the building. Sound advice I think, for both him and me. I have no doubts that “times are a changing”. The locals that have become my friends all said the same thing. Tolerance of the tourists is higher than ever. We get away with a lot more, but so is the courage of the locals. This is very telling. I think that the global political situation is having an affect in Cuba, and from our perspective it is positive. A good time to invest here? Maybe. Certainly the hotels are full and the number of “tourist-guided” groups I saw was more than in previous years.
Immigration: No trouble at all. Even though this was my third visit in the space of 2 months. I was asked about this frequency and I just said I love the country, the people and besides I had a long term novia here. Simple smiles, general good social behaviour, attempting to speak Spanish (prefaced with telling them I was learning) did the trick and I was home free. The two baggage conveyer belts are a real pain when you exit. I went to the one labelled with my flight, only to find that 20 minutes latter my luggage was on the unlabelled one along with those of half my co-passengers baggage. I suggest standing between the two belts and keeping watch on both.
Clubs: Everything is open (second hand news), but the attendance is VERY low. Maybe due to the Christmas period. I could not say. But in the past, this period has had little affect on chica availability. Malecon is alive and kicking if you are on a tight budget. In fact it is an excellent way of meeting amateurs and regular chicas alike. You will either be approached by a “hola” or very distinctive sound reminiscent of loud kissing (I can not describe it any clearer!) or can start the approach with someone you take a liking to. It is that easy.
Cell phones: Now very common in Havana. The hard core chicas all have them and this is a sure sign to look for, however the cost of the phones is such that you know you will be paying through the nose for your date. I no longer use hard cores Attitude and service is ultra important to me and so amateurs / regulars is by far the best possible combination for the hunt. There is something to be said about chasing the normal “non-payment” chica: OK, we all pay but you know what I mean. I found that my easiest option was to organise for my home-provider to extend my SIM capability to incorporate Mexico. This allowed me to receive a signal in Havana. OK so it was expensive at the equivalent of about $10 per min, however for ease of communication and in an emergency it was fine. I used it twice to call Saint. No big deal, and it meant freedom from new contracts and hunting down CU-com in Miramar.
Costs: For me the mongering was almost free, excluding gifts and food. Apart from the single first night of mongering with a SW from the Malecon, I was with a novia every night. Yes indeed the Trial does have its rewards. HOWEVER, please note that I agree with previous posters, Havana is not cheap by any means. OK, so the relative cost is low, but are you really going to spend a few hundred dollars to save a couple of bucks on the mongering? The cost of living for a good “holiday” is high when you take into consideration ALL the elements (chicas, place to stay, food, drink and excursions / transport). Having said that the second and subsequent visits will always be cost effective as you will know more.
Food: I agree with the poster who commented on the Italian restaurant on the Prado, opposite the Telegrapho hotel. Excelent indeed. Also, I dined extensively in the open-air restaurant opposite the cathedral. Another “nice place” was the restaurant in the Plaza de Arms (Mirador de la bahia) a roof top place with exceptional views of the harbour.
I’m considering returning in a couple of months if all goes well. That’s how much this place has got to me.
Enjoy life to the max, our time is too short here.
Regards, Havanaman
back in havana. i've been traveling around a bit. i'm definitely glad i came to cuba but the hobby scene is not what i expected. i expected to see a more beautiful general population of girls but most of the girls i see on the streets, in the stores, everywhere are not that beautiful. there are a handful of beautiful girls. anyone that is considering coming here only for the action should forget it. if you want to see a beautiful country with wonderful people than by all means come and experience what cuba has to offer.
there are lots of girls in the streets but most i wouldn't do for free. the hottest girls are in the clubs. if you're coming here expecting to pay very very cheap for hot hot girls you can forget it. i have a ton of funny stories. i've been here over two weeks now. i've hit trinidad, cienfuegos, vinales, pinar del rio. most of those cities it's impossible to get action. i'll try to post when i get back. internet is painstakingly slow. those that reported fast internet connections were either high or don't use high speed in the usa.
i saw a beautiful 22 year old last night from la chorrera. it's a cool spot. she had a great body and the best session of the trip so far. $40 + $10 for a taxi and she stayed a few hours. she is a ballerina for the national ballet. she only makes $7 us per month with her job. the weather is great. went to playas del este yesterday but it was cloudy.
the girls are generally scared of the police and that makes things tough. i'd come back to cuba again for the people and the country but the hobby is tough. i don't like it when you can't go out and eat and drink with a girl without the girl being worried. my and my friends already got stopped by cops 5 times. we had a bet at the beginning of the trip how many times we'd get stopped. i guessed 5 so i guess i'm winning so far.
i'm going out with a beautiful girl tonight for new year's eve. i'm setting up my friends with her friends as i did the other night. still here for a little while.
life is still good.
saint
Havanaman:
I'll look for your PM. Right now, my plans are for approximately 15 Feb, 04 for 3-4 weeks. I'm meeting up with a member of both this Board and LP where I just posted my "Fool" question and got slammed a couple of times (Big deal!). We can talk in PM and I think I gave you my pvt. email. I will be doing a lot of travel time when I'm there since we are getting a car for a very good rate, US$65 including insurance for a mid-sized one.
Lap Dancer:
Yes, I am a romantic and I paid tuition but overall, I got my money's worth in both "education" and positive experiences.
I love your "Real Estate" analogy and it is actually very logical. I may try this on my next trip (February, 04) but I'm more of a "one-woman for the trip" kind of guy. I wish I had the abilities of Havanaman with the chicas. Not speaking Spanish does limit me to those ladies who speak some English. I am trying to learn some Spanish.
Saint:
Can you describe the ballet dancer? When I was there early December, my friend and I hooked into what might have been a large part of the company. We went to the practice studio (five flights up) and I took many pictures of them which I have. I would not post the pictures here but a good description might find her. They loved my Polaroid and I actually turned down a very attractive 18 year old since I had a commitment with a school teacher I had met before in a disco.
Also, what you said about looks of the chicas shows just how diversified tasts are when it comes to "beauty." I saw so many chicas/ladies who I thought were very attractive, including one who had to be in her late 30s to early 40s. I would post pictures but since all but 2 were "play for pay" ladies, I don't think it would be proper. I guess I could post those three just for reference. I'll do it later with stories.
ALL:
It's interesting, the difference in attitude between the people on this Board and others (LP in particular). A lot of LP posters are in line with thinking on this Board but are more reserved with their comments while some are really the "morals police."
I'm sure when I get back from this next trip I will have some (interesting) shories to share.
As always, I appreciate the input from everyone here.
Spock.
Thai Diesel
01-01-04, 09:03
Thanks Lap Dancer, I'll check into it.
Happy New Year to everyone!
Lap Dancer
01-02-04, 04:07
Havanaman,
Re: Cigars
Point taken and I will channel my enthusiasm to the general interest section - though Bill Clinton was able to combine the two!
Talosian,
The girl I saw is 22 years old. I've been checking ID's of all the girls now. Most of the super hot ones are only 17. Many lie and say they are 18 but I spot their age on their ID's before leaving with them. I started a diary but just got too busy. Still I think it's about 15 pages or so in Word format.
I really like this country. Again, not for the hobby but for the people, the places and the memories I'm forming. I'm also with one of my good friends that I've taken 5 international trips with this year and the other guy I met in Cancun has been hanging out with us the entire time.
Let me just say the police are assholes. Stand your ground. We got pulled over again last night but again we didn't pay the $30 they demanded. Now, I tell them I'm a lawyer that does business here. I tell them that if they want us to pay the fine I need a receipt with their names on it. That scares the shit out of them and they let you go. If you speak no Spanish at all you might have problems. The police generally pull you over for a variety of reasons but also if you are doing nothing.
I'm finding some better places to eat. My buddy left for Trinidad. I leave for Cancun tomorrow so I'm going to blow it out today.
Life is good.
Saint
I was just going through some of the old postings for my trip this Monday and I saw some posts about laptops. I brought my old laptop to my girlfriend. I had it as a carry on. They did check my luggage and found a battery charger, which they questioned me about, but they did not look at my carry on. So I was able to leave my laptop with her, which she loves.
Ok you pay for it one way or another.
EDITOR's NOTE: Posting of this report was delayed pending revisions for capitalization and punctuation. To avoid future delays, please refrain from using the "chat room" style of writing with no caps or punctuation. Thanks!
Organicgrowth
01-04-04, 02:29
Hi Saint,
I’m really happy that you like Cuba. I think it will grow on you even more as time passes. I know well in excess of 30 guys that now love this place, as much as I do.
What a bummer with the police. I think it must be you, you look like a rich executive type! No seriously, I think it is part of the trend I reported a couple of reports ago, about the locals developing a little more courage than before. The times are a changin’, of this I have no doubts whatsoever.
Very good point about the ID check. The possibilities in not following your sound advice here are too terrible to contemplate… These might range from a “sting” to actual arrest…
Enjoy today to the max, who can talk about tomorrow?
Havanaman
Montreal Friend
01-04-04, 16:48
Hello Havanaman,
I intend to go for Havana for a few days (probably 3), in early April and/or in early December 2004. Could you suggest to me:
a) A chica friendly private appartement (with a private entrance) within walking distance of "La Rampa" (or Calle 23);
b) A good, reliable and affordable private guide/private driver who could eventually, among other things, pick up chicas for me;
Hello All! I'm back, got in last night from a trip lasting 17 hours: Habana, Miami, Vegas, and San Francisco (home). I'm still kind of wasted so I'll delay my full report for a couple of days. I do want to say that as I've pointed out before, and Saint also states, Cuba is not the place to go for mongering, but it is a wonderful and fascinating country where adventures just come at you like nowhere else! It infects the soul, as I'm sure many of you would agree.
Spock, no you're not stupid and your story is all to common. What is stupid is when guys keep paying and paying and don't walk away when they realize what you've realized. Understand, I've spent a total of many months in Cuba, and they are the best actors and liars in the world. This is born of necessity and not meant to be perjorative. I can tell you all too many stories of "true love," where the Cuban (man or woman) ends up in the US and then splits to Miami solo. Of the many American-Cuban couples I know not one lasted when the man was Cuban. About half work out when the woman is Cuban. This is because Cuban women are capable of staying faithful, while Cuban men are not.
Anyway, sorry to ramble. As I said I'll post my full trip report in a few days when I recover from this "vacation!"
Peace
Hi all. Just left Cuba yesterday back to Cancun. It was nice seeing you again Havanaman. Regarding the police it's not just me. Both my friends with me got pulled over several times too. I think anyone there for any reasonable amount of time will have that problem. Many of you only go for long weekends or a few days. I was there 16 days so the longer you are there the higher the chances you will get pulled over. Remember, all tourist rental cars have a T license plate so the police know right away that you are a tourist. I saw many many many tourists getting pulled over. Especially in Miramar.
It's not just being in a car either. One night my buddy Seaman was walking just one block from Calle 30 to Calle 28 along 3rd Avenue with his girl. A cop standing around stopped him. He can't speak much Spanish and was nervous so he called me on my cellphone. The cop was obviously just looking for a bribe but even after my friend offered him $10 he said he didn't want money. I came over immediately and I saw the cop talking to the girl. Keep in mind the girl was a total no pro type. She looked sweet and innocent.
I immediately went to the cop and asked what the problem was. He told Seaman he radio'ed for a squad car to pick the girl up but that was 15 minutes earlier so I knew he was lying. I told him that Seaman came here to spend NYE with his girlfriend. I asked him why he was hassling them. Then the cop asks for my ID. Luckily I came prepared. I came over with my passport. Then the cop gets ballsy and tries to scare me. He asks me where I'm staying. I tell him the street but told him I didn't know the apartment #. It was clear he knew exactly which houses rent rooms. He named my apartment and said maybe he would stop by. I had left a chica to come over to Seaman and the problem was she had no ID on her. I called my friend and had him get the girl out of there.
The cop saw me calling someone and asked me who I called. I immediately pulled out a business card of a lawyer that I met in Cuba. I told him that I called my lawyer friend and handed him the business card. I think that freaked him out. He called the girl over and he took the $10 that Seaman was gonna give the cop. He let us all go. This is just one of the examples of cops hassling us. Don't be scared of them. The first time I couldn't do much but I learned if you stand up to them they will back down. Sometimes they put up a good show but if you can argue with them you'll be fine. If you speak no Spanish at least learn the phrase that you need a receipt with the cops name on it.
Most of the girls in the clubs are pros. I'm not saying you can't have a great time with them because you certainly can. Only a tiny percentage are professionals with degrees or completed university. There are a few rookies that came to the big city (Havana) to work. I got lucky and hooked up with a total hottie that was only in Havana 2 weeks from Camaguey.
I'm super tired. I typed up some thoughts on my laptop today while at the airport in Cancun.
Cuba is a special place. I HIGHLY recommend traveling throughout Cuba. Don't just stay in Havana. As others noted, Cuba is a totally different place outside of Havana. Rent a car and just drive. I plan to go back this year and fly to Santiago and drive all the way to Havana. More later.
Saint
Car Rental and Hitchhickers
I am traveling to Cuba in a couple of weeks and intend to rent a car and travel around Cuba for 14 days. I was wondering if any of the members had any information on the possibilty of any mongering action with hitchhicking females while traveling down the highways of Cuba. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. On my last trip I remember standing at a bus stop near the Havana tunnel and seeing many female hitchhickers trying to wave down cars before they entered the tunnel heading east around 5 PM.
Thanks in advance,
Caw199
El Cubanito
01-05-04, 15:50
Saint,
You will like Santiago. Santiago and Holguin are my two favorite providence in Cuba. You will like the drive across Cuba.
El Cubanito
Caw199,
You'll love the experience of driving around Cuba. Just make sure you by an excellent highway map and keep asking directions along your route everytime there is a fork in the road. There are literally NO signs to tell you if you are headed to your destination. It was frustrating at first but then we just laughed and asked people every fork in the road. Everyone is friendly and helpful.
There are tons of hitchhikers approaching every city. Keep in mind the vast majority of Cubans can't own cars so they are dependent on hitching a ride. You will rarely encounter any hotties. I'm selective but if you're not I'm positive you can find action on the highway. The entire road trip we only saw two cute girls hitching a ride but they were going the opposite direction.
We still turned around and asked them if they wanted to go back to Havana but they were going home for the holidays to spend with their family.
I highly recommend taking the scenic route if you're adventurous. The roads truely suck but it's more scenic than the boring highway. The route from Havana to Pinar del Rio we could have taken the highway but we took the scenic mountain route through La Palma-Bahia Honda-Vinales. The views were awesome! We didn't see any tourists on that road though so use your best judgement. Just make sure fill up your tank whenever you can.
Cuba is a totally safe country. The people were amazingly friendly and I didn't encounter any crime whatsoever. The only negative encounters were with the police but I refused to pay any fines after my 2nd encounter. Good luck.
P.S. Those girls at the tunnel often times aren't looking for a "ride". They are looking for another type of "ride" where they make some money. There are many Italian dudes that stay in Playa del Este which is heading in that direction. We saw some local girls at the beach in Playa del Este with tourists. The ones that were alone were being hassled by the cops and being asked to show their ID's. The police are a real pain in the ass here.
OttoGraham
01-05-04, 16:36
Originally posted by Saint
The police are a real pain in the ass here.
Well, excuse me for pointing this out, but it IS after all, a totalitarian police state run by the Communist Party. This should not come as a surprise. And if you get in trouble by smarting back at a policeman, you could end up in a cell under accusation of being an American spy. Good luck asking the U.S. government to help you out of that jam. That trick will probably cost you all the money you have, to be paid in bribes.
-Uncle Otto
Oh Otto,
Leave it to you to show the way! A cop is the last person I would look to take on.
Starfe
ha, ha. otto. no offense and i do see your point in theory but unless you are there seeing what i saw and being there 16 days you'll see that the police are no real threat. in fact, the police are just looking for hand outs. it's clear to see that tourism is very important to the cubans. fidel has a strict policy of the police not being corrupt and bother tourists unless they have a really good reason. driving around minding your own business is no excuse for the cops trying to extort money from you.
people can say all they want about how cuba is scarey, dangerous to get to, full of risks, etc. traveling to cuba is one of the easiest things i have ever done in my journeys. just go via cancun and your chances of getting caught are almost none. cuba is not our enemy and it's only a matter of short time before the travel restriction will be lifted. i'm damn happy i got a chance to see cuba before it is lifted.
i still stand by my advice not to pay a police officer unless you are doing something seriously wrong. all the girls i talked to said the police are just looking for a few bucks. i'm glad i didn't pay anything after the 2nd run in with them. it might sound really ballsy to do what i did with them but in reality it's not. if you are conversational in spanish you should have no problems dealing with them.
as i pointed out before, make sure to check the id's of girls. all of them are required to carry them at all times. if a girl says she doesn't have it on her odds are she is ****. several hotties that i wanted to see claimed to have left it at home. one time, this girl that was setting me up brought over a totally hot blondie but the girl was only 17 so i passed. another time she brought another girl that claimed to be 18 but when i spotted her id i noticed she was lying and was only 17. on the front of the id there is a long number. the first two numbers are their birth year.
Lap Dancer
01-05-04, 18:33
One suggestion about travelling around Cuba is to fly. If you are thinking of doing this you are probably better off booking your ticket in Cuba and not in your home country.
The major hotels all have travel desks (I believe Cubanacan is the biggest) that can coordinate flights etc. I had a bad experience booking a flight in Canada - Havana to Santiago return. The taxi driver took me to the wrong airport and the flight times had all been changed. My travel agent had an old schedule - but who knows how often they are updated. I ended up waiting for about 7 hours. The return flight was actually an Ailitalia flight that was coming to Havana after dropping tourists off in Santiago. I did book a flight in Cuba as well. They arranged a driver to the airport and everything went smoothly.
QUESTION TO ALL (especially Mongers recently in Cuba):
As to the best of your recollection, how many of the pros are fully or almost fully shaven?
How about those who are not pros, don't ask for $$ but will appreciate a "gift?"
How about those who seem to be "regular" girls who just enjoy a good time with a tourist?
Finally on this point (taking a survey here); do you prefer shaved, bikini shaved or more natural than not?
And before anyone aske, I prefer natural.
Finally, have you ever run into chicas who did NOT wear thongs or French cut panties and/or Victoria Secret type bras and underware?
Truly curious.
Spock.
China Monger
01-06-04, 00:48
Talosian
If found them to be well groomed. Completely or nearly completely shaved. Just the way I like it.
And in the thong/t-back too. Just the way I like it too.
CM
As to the best of your recollection, how many of the pros are fully or almost fully shaven? MOST ARE TRIMMED.
How about those who are not pros, don't ask for $$ but will appreciate a "gift?" IF YOU DON'T AGREE TO A CERTAIN AMOUNT THE NIGHT BEFORE, SOMEONE WHO SELLS WOMENS' CLOTHING WILL APPEAR AT THE DOOR THE NEXT DAY AND THE GIRL WILL EXPECT YOU TO BUY HER SOME CLOTHES.
How about those who seem to be "regular" girls who just enjoy a good time with a tourist? YOU ARE EXPECTED TO PAY/GIVE SOMETHING TO EVERY GIRL BECAUSE YOU HAVE LOTS OF MONEY COMPARED TO HER. RARELY WILL YOU GET PUSSY FOR NOTHING. YOU WILL BE EXPECTED TO SET UP A BANK ACCOUNT FOR THE GIRLFRIEND WHEN YOU GO HOME AND WIRE MONEY, OR BUY HER A NEW BICYCLE. YOU WILL FEEL THE PRESSURE STARTING FROM DAY ONE TO HELP HER FINANCIALLY.
Finally on this point (taking a survey here); do you prefer shaved, bikini shaved or more natural than not? USUALLY IT IS UP TO THE GIRL HOW SHE KEEPS HERSELF, JUST LIKE UP TO YOU HOW LONG YOU WEAR YOUR HAIR.
And before anyone aske, I prefer natural.
Finally, have you ever run into chicas who did NOT wear thongs or French cut panties and/or Victoria Secret type bras and underware? MANY GIRLS HAVE CHEAP UNDERWEAR UNLESS THEY ARE VERY PRETTY AND OTHER MEN HAVE BEEN BUYING FOR THEM OR UNLESS THEY HAVE BEEN A PRO FOR A LONG TIME AND HAVE EARNED ALOT OF MONEY (RARE).
Re Saint: - Thanks for the info
I will be renting a car for 2 weeks and heading to Santiago from Havana with stops in Santa Clara, Camaguey and Holguin. I would like to make the turn around Baracoa but I will see how much time I have when I get to Santiago. I have heard a few good stories about the hitch-hickers but have also heard some horror stories about renting a car in Cuba. According to the Canadian travel advisory on Cuba, they say not to rent a car in Cuba. They say that the insurance they sell you is worthless and if you get into an accident, the government will not let you leave the country until everything is settled. Could cost you a lot of money, not counting lost income.
Anyway, "the Lord hates a coward" so I will still rent the car and see what happens. It may end up being my mobile casa.
Would still appreciate any added info on mongering on the road headed toward Santiago from Havana.
I have been to Cuba three times in the past, Cienfuegos once and Guanabo twice. I have always wanted to travel through the whole island. A little company on that lonely road would be enjoyable.
Thanks again
Caw199
El Colorado
01-06-04, 03:27
I have been asked to compare Cuba with Cali, Columbia. After having taken over 30 trips to Cuba, I recently visited Cali, Columbia. I noticed the following differences:
In Cuba, virtually every woman is for sale. However, many are
semi-pros or amateurs. A GFE therefore is very possible or even probable. The women want to stay all night. That is what is generally negotiated for. The hardest thing to do in Cuba is to get rid of a chica. They don’t want to leave.
Professionals in Cali are very easy to find. The city is full of casas, and there are plenty of SW’s along Ave Sexta in the evening. Semi-pros were there if you searched, but didn’t seem as plentiful. In the casas and with many of the SW’s, everything is by the hour. You have to talk them into staying the night. The rest of the women wanted relationships of some sort. Dates with non-pros were easy to get, but you weren’t going to get laid the first couple of dates.
Sex is expected from the start in Cuba. I’ve actually seen women insulted if you didn’t go to bed with them. Maybe it’s because Columbia is very Catholic and almost all of the hundreds of women I’ve dated in Cuba had no religion.
If you go with a woman for an hour or less, Cali is now cheaper than Cuba. All night with a SW or semi-pro was also somewhat less than Cuba. All night with a Cali casa girl was double what they cost in Cuba.
The average Columbian woman is far more beautiful than the average Cuban girl. However, Cuban women will aggressively come after you. The Columbians are more reserved. The Cuban girls are wilder in bed IMHO, although Columbian girls seem to want to make out more. They like more foreplay.
Prices for drinks, food and lodging seem about equal. However Columbia has everything you would want to buy, while things are far more limited in Cuba.
There’s the political thing, too. In Cali, the police and military were there to help you, while the goal of Cuban police is to extort you and try to put your girl in prison without trial. I wouldn’t want to be a policeman in Havana when Castro finally dies. Everyone hates them.
In Cali, you’re free to roam wherever is safe; in Havana, your chica takes a big chance being seen with you in public. This was one of the major reasons for my Cali visit. I’m tired of skulking around or staying in with a girl who doesn’t want to go out.
Street crime seems more prevalent in Cali than Havana. Cuba has no guns. You can buy a handgun in Cali for about $40. (US). Cali streets that can be walked during the day must be traversed by cab at night. I have never had this problem in Cuba. Yet, with my guide, I always felt safe in Cali.
If you’re looking for a lot of different (and beautiful) girls for short time and very inexpensive, Cali would be the choice. If you crave instant GFE with a semi-pro or amateur, Cuba would be better.
I’m returning to Cali next week for another two weeks. This time one of my US friends is coming along also. I think I got the lay of the land well enough to have a very good time. I also cultivated a girlfriend if I care to go that route some of the time.
i just got done having a great steak dinner with a good friend. (thanks starfe!) he encouraged me to post my daily diary of my trip. i didn't get a chance to write in my journal every day. i have
an excellent memory though and reconstructed the days i didn't type in my journal.
if you've been thinking about going to cuba than bite the bullet and do it. don't let people scare you or tell you it's dangerous. it was easily the safest country i've been to. most of the guys that advise against it or warn against things have never even been to cuba. listen to guys that have been there a few times that can give you the flavor of this country. i'm no expert on cuba this being my first trip. i never claim to know everything and certainly don't. all of what i write no matter what city/country i'm reporting on is my personal observations. i always try to be objective and subjective with everything that i post.
as i posted before, don't come to cuba only if you are looking to hobby. there are girls everywhere but the sad reality is if you're looking for hot girls my personal opinion is there aren't that many hot girls. buenos aires and rio have a bigger pool of talent and it's easier to hobby in. come to cuba for the experience and not to hobby.
my diary and thoughts are below:
i will preface this report by saying i’ve always wanted to go to cuba. last year i almost bit the bullet and went. i even tried getting a legitimate visa just in case anything happened. no dice. it’s a long and tedious process and i just gave up and kept going to south america. south america is a long haul but there is no risk or hassle (besides the long flight). the flights are long but the time zone change is only 2 hours and the flights are at night so it’s not too tough. cuba was never far from my mind though.
i always take a 2-3+ week vacation in december/january. (last year i spent over a month in buenos aires and rio). i was thinking about going back down to south america and traveling through brazil with my buddy seaman. there were no award tickets for the dates that i wanted. a coach ticket was $1,700+. i started to think about it. i have visited south america over a dozen times in less than 2 years. i decided i’d go to cuba. i started my planning.
i could have used an award ticket on american to go through nassau, bahamas. i held the ticket. i heard there was some increased pressure from the government watching people going to cuba. i decided it was safer to go through cancun (which i’ve been to many times). no award tickets on american. i had to buy a ticket to cancun. probably better to save my miles since i’ve burned almost 250,000 mile this year alone.
i went ahead and contacted a travel agency in canada. nash travel. http://www.nashtravel.com there are several agencies but i liked them because they spelled everything out on their website. no hidden fees or gimmicks. they seemed to be straight shooters. i emailed them and martha emailed me back. martha@anashtravel.com or you can email jury@nashtravel.com or do both for quicker response. she told me the fees which matched the website. i gave her the dates and she said she would call back the next day to make sure the flights were available. next day she called and i gave her my credit card information and voila. the cost of the ticket was good at about $235 including the taxes and fees. also, important to note is that i had to change my ticket to extend it and paid a $50 change fee to nash travel. if you have to change dates at least you know it's an option. about a week later i received a confirmation in the mail along with a voucher to give to the air cubana ticket counter in cancun. very easy. however, i will point out that at times the emails from nash travel could be slow. they do have an 800 # though so you can call them and get ahold of them that way. i can't complain as they came through for me and for seaman.
next i wanted to book a casa particular since you can’t bring girls into hotel rooms. i would have preferred a nice hotel room but didn’t want to go through the hassles of bribes to get girls in. there are several people that said they had friends that could get rooms or recommended rooms but there were no pictures. i decided to do it on my own. there are tons of websites out there. so far this seemed easier than people make it out to be. beware that many say that you can bring girls only to say later after you book that you can’t. always only pay one day in arrears or at the end of your stay. never pay upfront. it is not required and is actually stupid to do.
one of the guys i met in rio and that have been to cuba several times gave me some good tips and advice. to be honest i didn’t really read all the trip reports of cuba but i did read a few. dongringo was good enough to call me and give me his take on the island. he gave me the email/phone number of his cuban friend, frank, that could pick me up and help me around havana if i needed it. i’m not big into using guides in places that are very easy to get around like rio. i planned on having him at least pick me up from the airport.
i emailed frank and he emailed me back within 2 days. he seemed to be a friendly guy that speaks/writes pretty good english. i emailed with him in english and spanish. he told me with my level i’d have zero problems there. i asked him if there was something i could bring from the usa for him. he told me it was unnecessary but if i had any old clothes or old shoes that would definitely be great. i was already bringing a ton of stuff and worried because the ticket voucher said there is a 40 lb. limit on air cubana and every additional lb. was like $1 or $2. still, i had a ton of nice clothing that i don’t wear anymore. i brought him some nice clothes. i highly recommend everyone that goes down to cuba bring an extra bag of clothes they don’t wear anymore. (not rags. give them good stuff. most of mine was really nice clothes that i barely wore. – ralph lauren polo shirts, blue jeans, etc.).
i’m conversational in spanish and i’d recommend everyone learn some before going to any spanish speaking destination. a good audio lesson program is the pimsleur series. there are no books involved. you just listen to 30 minute lessons in your home or car. there are 4 levels. levels 1,2 and 3 are 30 lessons. level 4 is 10 lessons. it’s not cheap at over $1,000 for the complete series but you can buy mp3 versions from various places for much cheaper.
before going down i bought several books on cuba. it is kind of hard to fathom how these cubans make it through life down there. it’s unbelievable that the amount some of us executives and professionals earn in 2, 3 or 4 hours the average cuban makes in a year!
down to the trip. i flew to cancun and partied there one night before flying to havana. cancun is a fun city that i’ve always loved. at the airport surprisingly there is no one at the air cubana desk until less than two hours before the flight. my flight was leaving at 4 pm so i got there at 1:30 pm since i didn’t know how bad the cubans are with organization. i’m glad i got there early. there was a long line forming and there was some worry some wouldn’t get on since yesterday the flight got cancelled for some reason.
while waiting in line i met a cool guy that lived in the us. he was relatively my age and we quickly found out we were both headed to cuba out of a desire to see the country and see some girls. let’s call him tad (took a day). we quickly learned you have to be alert 24/7 with cubans. they will try to extract money whenever they can. the guy in line that was giving the tickets looked shady and actually was. tad only had a fax confirmation that he paid for his ticket. the guy at the counter said that he didn’t pay for the visa yet and the security tax. tad thought he did but he said what i heard so many times on this trip. “what can i do, i have to pay”. then the ticket counter asked him how long he has been in cancun. i bumped tad to tell him something but he already answered. “yesterday”. the agent asks, “what time”. tad says 1 pm. the guy then says tad owes another $25 us. hint: always say you just got in today in the morning. if you’re in cancun more than 24 hours you have to pay an additional $25 security tax. they do not verify this and i think the guy keeps the money for himself.
in fact, when it was my turn i knew what to do. i also had my travel agent include that i paid all security taxes and for my tourist card. i recommend this because you can charge it on your credit card. pay for as much as you can with you credit card before so you can conserve the cash with you. he asked me the same thing about what time i arrived. i said i just got in earlier that day. he still tried to scam me. he gets on the phone and pretends to call someone about my tourist card. i just told him in spanish, “look! read the letter, i paid for everything. please issue my ticket, my friend is waiting”. you have to be firm with these people.
so you get in another line to actually get your boarding ticket and drop off your luggage. this was a long ass line. slow process. we literally were in line until 3:30 pm and the plane was originally supposed to leave at 4 pm. i knew my bags would be overweight since i was bringing a ton of stuff. tad was cool and didn’t have that much stuff. he offered to put one bag on his ticket. we did that and i was still over. you can have up to 30 kg. (66 lbs). anything over that is $2 per kg. then they give you a ticket that you have to go pay in cash to the other window where you got the tickets. they keep your passports and you don’t get it until you give the receipt. the guys tried scamming us with the security tax thing again but i said, “hey! you already tried getting us and i told you we already paid it. hell, they tried collecting it again from tad who just paid it.
predictably the flight was an hour late. before the flight, i called frank from cancun to tell him the plane was delayed and not to go to the airport. his sister answered and said she would tell him.
the flight was uneventful but i joked to tad that this was actually the one airline you want to pay attention to the flight attendant about how the flotation device works. it was funny during the flight the overhead bin drawers kept popping open. they were old planes that look like they have had their better days. still, it was a short flight at around one hour.
so you arrive. get in another long line and wait. i’m not sure why they are so slow into letting tourists come in and spend their money but they are. took a while to wait in line as another iberia flight arrived at the same time. definitely get the vip service that is available. ask at the ticket counter when you get your ticket issued. i asked some people if it was worth it. some said yes and most said no. don’t always listen to people. sometimes people let costs dictate their advice. definitely get the vip service option from cancun or nassau. seaman did it and didn't have to wait in any lines, had a few cuba libres free while waiting and they even got his bags for him. i would have gladly paid $25 for that. there might not be a time savings but who cares?! you don't have to stand around which is worth it for me.
customs let me right in. didn’t even ask what hotel i’m staying in. got the bags and were on our way. i told tad that we’d hook up that night at hotel havana libre at 11 and we both saw our drivers.
i meet frank and he seems nice. he does complain that he has been waiting 3 hours. i’m like huh??? i took the time and expense to call him from the airport in cancun to let him know the flight was delayed but he said that he left before then? huh? i called at around 4:30 pm that afternoon. i told him in multiple emails not to come to the airport earlier than 6:45 pm or so since my flight didn’t get in till 6 pm and it would take time to go through customs yet he still decided to come at 5 pm. it didn’t make sense to me but oh well. also, he didn’t help me with my bags and i had 3. apparently he hurt his leg or something. i’m not sure. a few times he forgot his cane and seemed to walk around just fine. it was no big deal but after flying and arriving with 3 bags it would be nice to get some assistance. especially when one of the bags was needed to carry his gifts in.
we get to my apartment and even though i asked ahead of time to the lady booking my apartment she said it was an “official casa particular”. it was not because there was no blue triangle on the door as the guide books said there should be. i didn’t care. it was clean but basically just a room. the bathroom was very small. also, believe it or not it didn’t have a toilet seat. many of the restrooms didn’t have a toilet seat. i’m glad i expected the worse before coming. whatever expectations you have about your casa cut it in half.
frank came up to the apartment and i gave him all the clothes, some socks that i bought that dongringo said he would like, and about 5 lbs of chocolate, gum and candy for his daughter. it really surprised me that he didn’t really even thank me for all that stuff. maybe he was busy, maybe his mind was preoccupied. good guy or not when someone goes out of the way to bring you a gift you say thank you and make sure the other person knows you appreciate it. he told me if i needed him to call him. i thanked him and told him i might call him tomorrow although this experience with him soured my opinion of him. oh yeah, i also paid him $15 for the ride which i'm told is the normal fee and later was confirmed when i took a taxi back to the airport.
the only reason i used him to pick me up was because this dude i met in rio said he was a good guy. frank's english was good and he probably was a nice guy but the bitching about waiting for me for 3 hours, mixed with no help with my bags, mixed with him not even saying thanks for the gifts i brought seriously soured my impression of him. i had to even pay extra on my bags because i was overweight. if i had to do it again i wouldn't have brought anything for a stranger. also, in the car i could tell he was disappointed that i spoke spanish as that probably meant i would be less reliant on him. he also called my last day bitching and yelling at me on my cellphone how i "forgot about him and why i wasn't using him".
i showered and met up with tad. i couldn’t reach a taxi or flag one down but i looked at a map and it didn’t seem far away. i just walked and asked people along the way. i cannot emphasize enough to learn some spanish before coming. personally i wouldn’t come to a country like cuba if i didn’t know any spanish. i met him at the hotel and he said up at the bar there wasn’t anything that early. we were both hungry. we didn’t have any of our notes or trip reports. all i could remember was “johnny’s rio club” was posted to have some hot girls.
we flagged down a taxi and told him to find us a restaurant or paladar close to johnny’s. he drops us off at a place that looked closed. i told him it’s closed and he tells me that it’s open to go in. hint: never trust people completely.. most don’t know what they are talking about. go with your best instinct. of course it was closed and we had to walk all the way around back to johnny’s i ask the front door guy if they have food in the place. he says no then directs me to ask some girls standing around. they tell me no and that the only food is a food stand around the corner in the park. hint: don’t eat food from those little places in the middle of nowhere. the food was truly horrible. hint: whatever low expectations you have about the food in cuba multiply it by 10. we ate quickly and i regretted eating that pollo “chicken”. oh well.
back to johnny’s. $10 us entrance. first drink was $5. there were many girls. some were hot. many 7’s, solid 8’s and a few 9’s. i saw one that i’d consider close to 10. immediately girls were all over us. i told them that we needed to relax a little. again, i can’t imagine not speaking spanish or be regulated to “si, no, $40, etc.”. tad couldn’t speak much spanish but he knew a couple phrases and seemed to understand quite well. i liked the scene here until i got some quotes of $100 us! all the super hot chicks were asking for $100 but you could counter down to $50 where you could take it or leave it. some hotties wouldn’t accept less than $100. this would be like the equivalent to the barbarella’s in rio. higher end girls that charged more than the other places. the 7’s and 8’s i think you could get down to $40 if you had good communication skills, the girl was somewhat attracted to you and the girl needed money. i talked to one that first asked for $100 then went to $80 then went to $50 all in the span of 5 minutes. i passed as she wasn’t up to my standards. many girls were around giving you the eye. i spotted one super hottie but she was the type that was hot and knew it. she was targeting all the dudes with money that were older or dressed nice. we made eye contact several times but i decided not to approach her. she looked like penelope cruz’s younger, hotter sister.
johnny’s closes at 2 am during the week and 3 am on the weekends. i thought if we waited till close to 2 am it would be better since the girls would be ready to deal. tad was a little unprepared as he booked his first night in hotel. it’s funny. one of the first questions the girls ask you even before your name is, “are you staying in a casa or hotel?” ha, ha! i told him he could go to a short term casa but he was on a budget. i think i gave him a scare in cancun when we were comparing budgets. my chica budget per day was more than his budget for everything. oops. i told him not to compare though since i kind of like to do things in extreme measures sometimes.
he ended up leaving alone the first night in cuba! hence the name (tad –took a day). tad was a very likable guy. we had a good time. he left me sitting with a new amiga i just met. she had a good body but it was hard to see her face since it’s dark upstairs. she was 19 years old. friendly. she asked for $100 and i only laughed telling her that i think she is sick. she laughed so hard she spilled her drink. i could comfortably communicate in and out of the clubs. i had no problems. i finally countered with $50 to which she accepted. she did ask for $3 so she could follow me since she was scared to go in the same taxi. no problem. her driver followed me and away we went.
the session was good. not great but good. bbbj and the usual that we’ve come to love and expect. she let me take some pictures of her with her clothes and bra and panties. i haven’t been taking pictures lately but i just bought a new digital camera and thought i’d break it in. while she was bbbj’ing the camera was laying there and she said i could take some without her face showing so i did. she was pretty enthusiastic but after a while she kept saying, “dame su leche –give me your milk” over and over. it was getting annoying. we finish up and then she starts asking if she can have a granola bar from the box i brought with me. . she starts collecting all this stuff i brought. (pack of gum, granola bar, fruit roll up, chocolate, pop tart, etc.) i had to limit what she could take. overall it was a good session.
i know people might question going to a place like johnny’s. keep in mind that i’m super picky and have never picked up a girl off the street. you might ask, “then why go to cuba???”. i didn’t just come here to hobby. i came to “experience” cuba. i’ve wanted to come here for a while.
day 2
tad and i decided to meet the next day where i was renting my rental car. as i posted above, i lost my wallet at the airport with my driver’s license before the trip. i figured it wouldn’t be a problem as long as i had my passport. wrong. hint: make sure if you rent a car you have your driver’s license. i prepaid with my travel agent and you can guess no refunds. i told him i’ll just have tad rent it. he looked a little hesitant at first but i said i already paid and he agreed. we put both are names on the contract.
in the meantime i thought i’d go activate my phone. i went to the cubacel office in vedado. it was closed. the guy at the door said the one in miramar is open in the melia havana hotel. this taxi driver is making a fortune carting me around. the taxi fares can add up. the guy was wrong. not only is there not a cubacel office in melia havana hotel (it’s across the street) but it was also closed. i had no choice but to go back to havana and wait for tad. another taxi fare. i spent $21 in taxi’s that morning.
i went to the hotel ingleterra and their internet was down. i went next door to the telegrafo hotel and their internet was also down. i had a sandwich at the café next to the ingleterra. there was some eye candy along the prado (the main street that has the hotels on it) but i had to go meet tad so i didn’t partake. it’s a beautiful part of town near the capitol. definitely walk around. havana is actually a pretty good walking city and if you speak some basic spanish you can ask directions. (of course, half the time the people don’t exactly know where a place is or they just give you a wrong answer).
i met up with tad and he agreed to put the car under his name. no biggie. i paid for the entire rental car, insurance, etc. he said he would pay for some gas which was fine. we got along very well as he was very laid back too. we decided to go to the airport to activate my cell phone. if you rent a car note that there are virtually no signs anywhere. you would think going to the airport there would be some signs on the road but there was not even one sign until we got very close to the airport. many streets don’t have signs. some have markers near the bottom of the intersection in stone. as long as you are comfortable driving in traffic or have rented a car in a foreign country you will be fine. some guy posted that he would never rent a car. if you’re used to traffic it’s very easy except for the no signs. keep in mind a car rental with full insurance during high season for a mid-size car is about $90 per day with full insurance and unlimited milage . it would take a lot of taxis to equal that amount. however, you have the freedom to go wherever you want whenever you want. i really enjoyed renting a car and had no problems whatsoever getting around. i’d highly recommend renting a car. taxi’s proved to be problematic finding other than the main touristy places like hotels.
we finally made it to the airport after asking about 4 people on the side of the road. you will notice tons of people hitchhiking. it boggles my mind how long and how far some of these people have to walk. use your discretion if you should pick them up or not. personally i wouldn’t pick up anyone except for a hot chic that needs a ride. there is no upside to drive some strange dude except the feeling to help him which could backfire on you. oh yeah, on the way a police obviously pulled us over because we had a t (license plate – tourist). we were following traffic yet he said we were speeding. it was obvious he wanted money. there is no radar that i noticed anywhere. how would he know if we were speeding? i told him i was following traffic. then he discovered that i didn’t have my driver’s license. he immediately dropped the speeding and all of a sudden driving in cuba without a driver’s license become a $40 us offense. no way in hell i was going to pay $40 us and i told him that. i told him that whatever fine i paid i was going to take a copy of a license after i got it to their version of city hall and get a refund. he acted like he didn’t know what i was talking about. then he said he could let us go for $10. i didn’t feel like arguing so i gave it to him but told him it just wasn’t right. he had me sign some ticket but he wouldn’t give me a copy. he kept it. of course, it was so obvious he was keeping it. he immediately becomes very nice and helpful after i paid the money. asshole. there wasn’t anything i could do since i was driving without a license. oh well.
i was irritated because i travel around internationally very often. i never let myself get scammed. i’ve been to rio seven times in the past year and not once have i been scammed.
the cubacel office is not located in the airport in terminal 2 where we were at. there is a small office near the cubacar rental office. i would highly suggest you activate your phone while you’re at the airport. the office hours were long at the airport. it turns out there is a cubacel office downstairs in the airport in terminal 3 where you would arrive. i was told it was free if you brought your own phone. wrong information. if you get the cheapest activation with no contract it’s $3 a day. if you rent the phone i think it was $5 a day. luckily the dude that rented me my car told me if you rent a car with cubacar they will give you a free phone (but you still pay the $3 a day. since i had my phone the nice girl waived the $3 and $5 a day fee. you just pay for your airtime which is highway robbery. it’s 75 cents a minute with no contract. this is what most guys will do unless you come to cuba a lot. even then it’s 50 cents a minute to call locally or receive incoming calls. you can deposit how much you want and they will activate your time asap. you get whatever you don’t use at any cubacel office before you leave cuba. that part is a good deal. however, i had a few dollars left and went downstairs to get a refund. the line was about 7 people deep and it wasn’t worth it.
we were on our way. we ended up taking a different way home but made it to vedado fine. again, no signs to tell you where you are going, so buy a good city map of havana. we decided to have a daiquiri at el floridita. it’s a cool spot to have a drink in. drinks were $6 us each. there are girls everywhere giving you the eye and the option is definitely there if you want it.
the ironic thing is that i wasn’t as pumped to pick up girls as i thought i would be. i guess after all these international trips it takes more to get me excited. still, i was enjoying havana. the weather was chillier than i would have liked. i didn’t pack warm clothes and it gets chilly at night. i emailed seaman and told him to bring warm clothes.
tad and i decided to meet in front of the ingleterra at 9:30 pm. wow. there was tons of action. several pretty girls but most weren’t my type. i had a coffee while waiting and many came to my table to talk. many girls also make a “hissing” noise to try to get your attention. it’s kind of funny. tons of jineteros everywhere. just ignore them and don’t even make eye contact or they will keep following you.
we hook up and i am tempted to leave him and go session in my casa. i decide to wait. price seems very negotiable although some hot girls were asking for $50 to start and i’m sure they would take much less than that if they knew you’d leave with them. we walked around the area for a while. we decided to go to casa de la musica in miramar. we passed it and some kids needed a ride so they agreed to show us where it was. at first we were thinking they were just conning us for a ride. nope. we took them to a concert in the park and they were exactly correct where it was located. we went to casa de la musica. it was dead. it was early so we left and were going to come back. the management said no problem. cover was $15 us.
we decided to go to the concert. there were tons of people. all locals. no foreigners that we spotted. there were maybe 900 people. i was surprised there were only about 3 police officers for such a scene. tad commented that there were no tourists to “protect”. he was right. still, i can see where a group that size drinking alcohol and possibly doing drugs can get out of hand. it was nice to see the locals so happy. there were listening to music and dancing around. they didn’t have a care in the world. what they lack for financially they make up for in spirit. cubans might not have traditional “freedom” but they have their own sort of freedom. most aren’t a slave to their job. they can do whatever they want for the most part. they sure seemed happier than the people i see going up and down the elevators making tons of money in the usa. people were always friendly. it was nice to be in an area with no jineteros. no one bothered us at the concert. a few guys asked if were we were going to casa de musica.
we left and went back to cdm. it was dead! i was seriously regretting coming here. i thought it would pick up but it was nothing like people previously posted. there was barely anyone there. to make things worse they only would make like 3 drinks. they couldn’t even make a mojito! what the *?+*!!?? tad ordered a jameson as it’s his drink and it was horrible. it was clear they poured something else in the bottle. they give you a drink menu then tell you they only have rum and coke’s or beer. horrible! hint: do not come here. this place has gone downhill which chicas confirmed to us later.
we decided to go back to the ingleterra area but by this time it was late. maybe 1 am. there was some action but nothing i’d pay for. we went to the habana libre hotel which has a disco on top. it was a $15 cover and we asked if we could look. he gave us 2 minutes to look. it was mostly couples or people staying at the hotel. the girls looked older. it was maybe 1:30 am at this point. maybe later. tad was going to go home and i told him there was no way in hell he was going to go two nights in a row and not see any girls. tad was easygoing. i don’t think he specifically came here to see girls but he did plan on seeing some. i told him if he wanted to go home fine but i’m going back to johnny’s. the only place i knew there would be some hotties. i know there was other places but it was late and i was horny. i was going to go look for the hot girl i saw the night earlier.
he relents and comes with me. we valet for the normal $1 that everyplace charges to watch your car. a nice surprise is they close at 3 am on the weekends. plenty of hotties. the girl i saw from the night before came over and said hello. tons of girls were all over us. i see the totally hot girl. this girl is 19 and looks like penelope cruz’s younger, hotter sister. totally beautiful and she knows it. i knew she would be horrible in bed but i kind of didn’t care. i call her over and we are joking around a lot. she is funny. she asks for $100 and of course that is too much. i counter with $50 knowing she won’t accept it. she said her minimum is $70 and she would rather go home alone and does many nights. i don’t doubt her for a second. i just wanted to have her. we stuck around a while. i bought her and her friend a drink and tad was going to go home alone because all the girls were “out of his budget”. but my girl, jenny, talked her friend into leaving for $50.
we all left together. i drove tad to his place with his girl and i went to mine. my girl was actually sweet but i think doing what she is doing jaded her. maybe i’m getting soft as i get older but i wouldn’t wish this job on any girls i personally know. probably not what you guys want to hear but i don’t care. we get to my casa and i give her one of the 18 toothbrushes i bought to go brush her teeth. she also showered. she wouldn’t let me take any pictures of her face or any good shots of her body. i got a few pictures from the side but they don’t show how beautiful she is. the session was mediocre at best and compared to some of the sessions i’ve had the session was very bad. at first she didn’t want to give me a bbbj. she says that this is her work. she asks me if i’m not careful at my job. i just bs and tell her, “amor, but i’m not your client. i’m your amor” and she just laughed and gave me a not so good bbbj. i have a lot of stamina and after about 25 minutes going at it she is complaining to “dame tu leche”. she says that i’m too big and that she hurts. then i tell her that i may not be sloppy in my job but i don’t complain to my clients while i’m working and asked her to shut her mouth in a nice way. that kind of put her in her place and although she did mumble to cum again she was clear i’d finish when i was ready. afterwards, she hung around and we talked. i still think she is a sweet girl masked behind a jaded attitude.
oh well. cuba is a totally different mongering destination. those that are looking to monger somewhere for the first time i would seriously talk you out of coming here. go to buenos aires, rio or sao paulo. and if you speak no spanish at all you can still get around but i just think you won’t have as much fun. keep in mind this is only my opinion. if you’re really into picking up street girls then havana probably is heaven for you. it’s not my cup of tea. no one is right or wrong. just not really my thing.
again i’ll mention that the food here really is horrible. i like going on vacation and eating well. do not come here expecting to eat well. the food really sucks. say that over and over and over again before coming. i heard it was bad but expected better. also, the funny thing is that many restaurants will have this extensive menu. i'd ask for something and they'd say, "we don't have that". i'd ask for something else. "we don't have that". finally i'd just ask what they had and it inevitably was chicken and pork.
many times we were in an area where we snacked in and almost every place had bocaditos (little ham and cheese sandwiches). we all got so tired of ham and cheese sandwiches by the first few days into the trip. one night we were driving around and in an area with not too many restaurants. we finally had to eat dinner in a gas station getting.... you guessed it -- bocaditos!
the city of havana is beautiful but could be so much more beautiful. it’s a shame that the government doesn’t invest in the upkeep of the building. it literally looks like a nuclear bomb went off decades ago and the buildings survived and they are in same condition. either that or there was a huge dust storm that blanketed the city and it's buildings with dust and soot. i was happy to hear an italian company has been hired to restore the malecon.
day 3
i woke up late and tad and i had talked about maybe going to cienfuegos and trinidad today since we would spend several more days in havana. i had to pick up seaman on the 24th so i agreed. i told my casa that i was leaving for a few days. they seemed ok with it and i left ½ of my stuff there. before coming tad puts an american girl on the phone and she asks if we will give her a ride. i wasn’t too thrilled but i thought why not? i picked them up and off we went.
of course we got lost on the way there. as usual there was no signs. and the one time there was a sign for cienfuegos i guess it was for a different cienfuegos. (there are two?). a guy offered to show us the way and got in the car. he went quite a long way with us. i gave him $2 at the end of the journey and he wanted more. the girl with us took it upon herself to give him all these magazines i had that i was going to read on the beach. i would have rather given him more money. oh well.
if you drive outside of havana, make sure you ask directions every 20 minutes or so to make sure you are going the right direction. there are a lot of forks in the road and there is no signage so it’s easy to get lost. none of these people speak english in the countryside so don’t even attempt to drive unless you are the adventurous type.
we stopped in cienfuegos and i bought lunch for the 3 of us. there was a really scenic restaurant at the end of the main throughway of town. there is a view of the water surrounding the restaurant. it sucked they only had 2 dishes though and they weren’t that good so we didn’t eat that much of it. the girl with us was an american “backpack” type. i don’t know how she was going to survive on her meager budget. she planned on seeing a lot of different cities. i guess one of the ways was by mooching free rides from city to city?? she was a nice enough girl though. she slept most of the way.
cienfuegos looked too small for us so we decided to go ahead and drive to trinidad. the view on the way there was very serene and scenic. there are tons of people hitchhgiking. i still can’t imagine what they do if they can’t hitch a ride. you forget how lucky you are until you come to cuba and experience everything we have that they don’t.
the drive only took about an hour from cienfuegos to trinidad. it’s about 75 km. like dumbasses none of us thought to make a reservation anywhere. trinidad is a very small town so many of the places were already booked. to make things worse, now we needed 3 rooms. we had this guy show us some places. i asked to be near the ocean. we couldn’t find a place with 3 rooms. i only asked that there be hot water for the shower and a good bed. we arrive to this casa and there is only two rooms. we reluctantly agreed as tad agreed to share a room with hitchhgiker girl (hhg). then i asked the casa owner if i could have chicas over and he immediately says no. then to make matters worse they tell us we must eat breakfast and dinner there or we couldn’t stay. that broke the camels back. too many restrictions. even if it was only for one night. we head back and i decided to ask another casa i saw. they had two rooms. it was a quaint place with hot water which sealed the deal. they also said we had to eat there but i didn’t care at this point. it was dark and the last thing i wanted to do was go through town and try to find a place to stay.
hhg was making phone calls trying to find a place but everywhere was booked. round about this time i knew it was a mistake to bring her. we couldn’t leave her hanging now. i told her to go back to the original casa that we refused. i drove her back there and i’m damn glad we didn’t book there. there was a baby crying and screaming and it was just chaotic. plus she was bitching about how havana is so much cheaper than trinidad. huh??? i told her to call me tomorrow and i’d drive her back into town to a casa particular that she booked on the phone. i asked her how much it was going to be and she had a worried look on her face since she didn’t ask. the casas are only like $25 a night in this town. i’m not used to traveling with people that think that is too much for a room. it was starting to get annoying so i’m glad we ditched her.
tad and i took hot showers and he rested while i typed all of this. we went to casa de la musica here in trinidad and it was open air outdoor music and dancing. mostly tourists. we were told there would be some girls but i sure as hell didn’t see any worth talking to. then we went to casa de la tropa. same story there with uglier tourists. we read about this cool disco that was in a cave. it’s called disco ayala or “la cueva”. we went there and it was a cool set up. us$10 admission which included any drink. it wasn’t that crowded with mostly drunk tourists and a few local girls but nothing to write home about. everyone kept saying it would pick up but we waited until 1 am and nada so we split. we drove around the street and not much action. i never thought i’d have a night in cuba that i didn’t hook up. first time for everything i guess. i actually don’t mind. i’ve only been sleeping like 3 hours a night and starting to hit the wall a little. especially with all the driving and not eating that often or well. did i mention the food here sucks? i’m going to bed. it’s about 2:20 am and i’m already in bed alone. how sad is that?
cuba might be cool for anyone that has only been to tijuana or a border town but i would no where consider it the major leagues of other world class monger destinations. plain and simple it can’t compare to the likes of buenos aires or rio. you shouldn’t even compare the two. totally different worlds.
i consider myself to have pretty good “game” with the chicas and i’m finding myself not even that motivated. i’m still having a good time enjoying cuba but the sex scene is totally overrated. whatever glory days cuba had i think are gone. i guess when we get back to havana i’ll see how the street scene is and also maybe get some phone numbers from frank. he called the other day but i wasn’t home. i don’t find that i need his guide services. i just need those phone numbers. more tomorrow.
day 4
tad and i had talked about going scuba diving so it was ironic when we were eating breakfast and the friend of our casa owner had a scuba shop. he waited for us to finish breakfast and then we went scuba diving. i had never been scuba diving before but he gave me an introductory course and then allowed me to scuba dive for about 45 minutes with him. it was nice and relaxing. there were some colorful fish but nothing compared to other places i’ve been to like curacao or hawaii.
cuba is a beautiful place. some people might think of coming for the girls but you might find yourself occupied by the people and the other things cuba has to offer. trinidad is a very small town but we were always doing something and keeping busy. we went into the city near the historic center. there is not much there but still a quaint and beautiful place to visit. it even had an internet café. we decided to go to playa ancon which is about 9 km from la boca where we were staying. we stayed just a hundred yards from the sea. it was nice and the people we stayed with were wonderful.
after the beach we came home and we sat in the patio and talked to the owner of the casa. he was such an intelligent guy. his kids are living in the united states and spain. he is very well spoken. my spanish is getting better and better to the point of being able to have detailed conversations about politics. it was funny whenever we talked about castro he wouldn’t say his name but would just make a “beard motion” with his hands. he explained life pre and post russian assistance, talked in details about the laws there and how he longed for change. people should note that things will change. i firmly believe things will change within the next 3 to 4 years and so did the owner. change is inevitable. i’m glad i got to experience life here before it does.
he also told me that casa particulars have to pay $400 us a month to operate their casas. that is such a high price and it boggles my mind. he said every few months the government makes it more and more difficult for casa particular owners as they are trying to drive tourists into the state run hotels so they can profit from tourism. now, the government only makes the $400 per month from the casa particular owner as opposed to the $100 a night from the nice hotels and the expensive meals.
i’m sitting here in my casa particular just relaxing and updating my report. this is one of the few downtimes i’ve had. i’ve brought about 7 paperback books and only am halfway through one of them.
i really am anxious to find some action now. i don’t know if i’ve ever been on vacation the past two years and not hobbied two consecutive days in a row. i hope this isn’t a first. stay tuned….
later that night – what an adventurous night. hhgg called us to see if we would meet her at casa de la musica. we met her for a drink and then we watched some dancing. we were determined to find chicas tonight. we went to a few places that the locals said were good. casa arte and a bar called chocolate. both were completely dead so we went back to cdm. we were getting a little frustrated on how difficult the scene here is. we even talked to this guy from mexico city that spoke english. he told us he has been to cuba 4 times and never had this much trouble in any town. he was leaving in the morning for las tunes. he was complaining how expensive trinidad was but i thought it was cheap. i’m not sure how you can expect it to get cheaper than $20 - $30 for a place to sleep. food isn’t that expensive. anyway cdm was still hopping.
when we arrived there we immediately ran into hhg. she was with two cubanas. one was really cute and had a nice body. she was just my type and was latina looking rather than darker. the other girl was black. hhg told me that she was coming to find tad and i to party with these girls. (i kept telling hhg i wanted to hook up with cubanas). then the cute girl says she can’t talk to me here in public. i tell her ok let’s go talk somewhere in private. she was a little surprised. i think she thought i might be the wholesome good innocent tourist type. nope. i tell her it would be even better if she had a place to go since she couldn’t come to our casa particular. trinidad is very very strict. she tells me that the apartment is $15 and she and her friend wanted $35@. i tell her that is too much and she lowers it to $25 @ for them. i was in no mood to negotiate. i was horny and it was hard enough to find action. i agreed. she went on to tell me that we need to follow them but keep a very good distance. we would eventually come to a private casa where we rent a room for an hour or so.
tad and i were now learning how things worked. earlier that night we noticed a girl starring at us but she wouldn’t talk to us. she kept looking back waiting for us to follow her. that is how it is done here. the girls will stare at you or hiss at you then you need to follow her if you’re interested so you can talk in private and negotiate. we arrive to a very dark street and the girls tell us to wait outside. a cubano let’s us in and they are all scared out of their minds. they keep peering out the door for a few minutes before relaxing. all the lights were off. i was never nervous but i just couldn’t believe the fear these people have. my girl later told me they get 4 years in jail if they are caught. yikes!
i went upstairs to a bedroom and tad stayed downstairs with his girl. believe it or not the girl’s don’t carry condoms for fear the police might find it on them so you better have some with you. thank god tad gave me one as i left mine at home. i had a great session. very gfe and dfk, bbbj and she just kept going on and on. 22 years old with a spinner body. her breasts were a little small but she was fine. afterwards i showered in very cold water. she told me she only works one or two times a week and that is enough to get by.
i waited for tad and he was happy with his girl too. he even commented how he was bummed we had no more condoms. (you should have seen his face when he muttered those words, "she might not be beautiful but she put her heart into it". ) ha, ha! i told him we can bum some condoms from the mexican guy i met. some norwegian guy gave us some and we were happy. we went around looking for some action. we went to fresca chocolate where there was not much action. there were a bunch of gay guys so we left.
when we walked out we bumped into our girls from earlier that night. i was surprised when my girl asked me for a ride home. she said she lived several miles away and didn’t have money for a taxi. i asked her why she was so worried before and now didn’t seem to be. i told her it might be dangerous for her and her friend but she didn’t seem worried. i asked her again and got the same answer. they got into our car and i told them i was hungry. she asked if i would buy them something to eat too. i told them sure but maybe it wasn’t a good idea to be seen with tourists. she said as long as we weren’t in the historic center it was fine. i was doubtful but i asked her about 3 times and she kept saying it was ok.
we get to this rapido (fast food joint) that is open 24/7. we order some sandwiches and we are joking around having a good time. tad and i are laughing about how trinidad has a big learning curve but we were happy to have figured it out. right around this time a cop outside motions for the girls to come out. the girls look scared. i’m thinking this might happen and that’s why i asked them 3 times if it was ok. the cop takes their id’s. i ask them if it will help if i talk to the police officer. she said maybe. unbeknownst to me the cop is not there. i figure out that there is a police station around the corner. i guess the cops told the girls to stop by the police station.
i go into the police station and explain to them that we were dumb lost americans that needed something to eat and they showed us. then the girls were hungry so we offered them something to eat. the cop clearly didn’t want to deal with me. his only words to me were, “are you her husband”? there was nothing i could do. the girls motioned to leave. tad and i felt terrible but i did ask the girls about 3 times if this was ok. the girls were stupid to do this. i think the police were just shaking them down. we talked to several girls throughout the trip that said the cops just wanted $5 or $10 whenever they can get it. horrible. the cops here suck.
i went to bed that night wondering if the girls were ok and hoping the cops didn’t search them because they would surely find the money we “donated” to them. i’ve never felt guilty for spending time with a girl and this wasn’t a good feeling.
day 5
tad and i were both sleeping horrible. the beds here pretty much all suck and the pillows are pretty bad too. i’m not used to “roughing it”. our casa owners were great though. nelson and narcisa were great people. narcisa was a great cook and her meals were the best food in cuba. we never had a bad meal in her house. anyone that is in trinidad should at least eat dinner/breakfast everyday there.
we decided to go to ancon early since it was sunny. the beaches are pretty good there. there were no cubans there except some selling pizzas on the beach and the one’s working at the hotel. tad took a brief salsa lesson. after a few hours we ran into hhg. she seemed to be everywhere we were. trinidad is small so you can expect to bump into people you see. i guess she shared a ride to ancon with some other backpacker types to save on taxi fare. she said taxi fare from trinidad to ancon was $8.
we thought about avoiding hhg but i had a plan to use her to help us tonight with hooking up with girls again. it’s easy for a female to talk to the locals but problematic for the male tourist. hhg wanted to bum a ride back to town. tad and i planned to shower then head to topes de collantes for a side day trip. we heard good things about it. hhg asked if she could go with us. sure. why not? the road there was dangerously curvy but not too bad. we did see one car that went over the cliff and an ambulance was at the side of the road.
there is a little rest stop on the way to topes. definitely stop here and walk up the stairs. there is an area where you can see the entire area. it had breathtaking views. we arrived at topes and most of the hiking trails were closed since it was getting dark. i noticed the general population here was ligher skinned and more euro looking. there were tons of kids walking home from school. everyone looked happy. we headed back to trinidad.
that night tad and i had the best dinners of our trip. the dessert was fabulous too. we headed to casa de la musica to listen to the live music and scope out the action. there were a lot more tourists out since it was a little warmer. the girls really didn’t do too much for me. a few cuties but few and far between. tad spotted a cute blonde with a great body. tad made eye contact with her but then she danced with someone. tad and i were wondering if girls just come here to dance. the answer is no. the majority of the girls that are here are here to work. it might not be obvious and you may even think for sure a girl isn’t working. some have good covers. one girl that was there said she was a professional dancer. she was an awesome dancer and in fact might have been. she was there with her “brother” who also danced. she was here every night and he always escorted her. we always would see them come and go and then later saw them in fresca chocolate looking for tourists. just make eye contact with a girl and motion for her to follow you and you’ll be set.
tad’s blondie was dancing and tad and i decided to just walk around. before you knew it the blonde was behind us a few blocks down. she was with a very ugly girl. the downside was we would often see a hot girl with an ugly girl. many times they weren’t willing to separate. this was one of those cases. this blonde girl was a total rookie “farm girl”. she had no clue where to go. i inquired about prices and she just told me that she “isn’t one of those type of girls”. then i asked her if she knew of a private place we could go to “talk”. she told me no. i made it clear that tad wanted to see her but she kept trying to talk to me. she wouldn’t leave her ugly friend and tad was getting frustrated and just wanted to leave. i was more patient and saw a more fruitful outcome. i found a nice guy on the street and asked him if he knew of a private place to rent. he said yes. he was super cool and never asked for anything.
the girl was still difficult and wouldn’t leave her friend. finally tad and i drove away. we went to fresca chocolate and when we came out she was there waiting with her friend. she was crying though. the cubano guy helped us talk to her. the police came and parked right in front of the girls. i told the cubano to tell the girls to meet us 2 blocks down around the corner. we waited and the blondie showed up. tad was still frustrated but i told him we could make it work. there was no way i was going to session with her ugly friend but i offered to wait with her. we couldn’t bring the girls back to our casa so i suggested we just stop by our casa and grab some blankets and go to the beach.
we went to the beach where i explained to the ugly friend that i didn’t want to session with her but we should let our friends have their fun. the funny thing is tad’s girl tried giving me a note with her full name, address, phone number, etc. i asked her why i needed this since she was tad’s girl. it was clear that she wanted to start some sort of long distance relationship with a tourist. the ugly girl was very offended that i shunned her. she wouldn’t even get out of the car. there was no way in hell i was going to wait 1 hour or more in the car so i grabbed my blanket and layed it on the beach and rested while tad and his girl had their fun.
it was funny because tad’s girl came over to me at first. i told her to go back over to tad. i’m not sure if she thought we were going to both expect action. i couldn’t fall asleep and the sad thing is that the rocky beach didn’t feel much different than my bed in my casa. it was awesome on the beach. it was so dark and the stars were so bright and you could hear the ocean waves crashing on the rocks. i was a real trooper. i waited until tad yelled that he was done. i think we were there at least an hour or so. it was late by the time he was done. maybe 3:30 am.
he called me over and i asked him how it was. at first he said, “not good”. then he explained it was fine but that he couldn’t concentrate. i guess the girl was lactating. she claimed to have a 2 year old but i guess she was still breast feeding. he said at first it was a novelty but it just kept gushing out and i think it freaked him out. he had milk all over him. i was dying laughing. we had to drive the girls back to the ugly girl’s house in trinidad. it was funny because the girl now gave tad the note with her info on it. i wondered to myself how many times she gave out this information. she never asked for any money. tad gave her about $25 and she never even looked at it. she simply said for him to write her and she walked away. we were cracking up the whole way back to la boca. i was calling him the milk man. the first thing tad did when we got back home was take a shower.
day 6
we woke up early. we both liked trinidad and could have stayed longer but i had to come back to havana to pick up seaman who was arriving later that afternoon. we had an uneventful trip back to havana. i really enjoyed driving through cuba. we took turns driving and had some good conversations about cuba. i think tad was falling in love with cuba just as i was.
we arrived in havana and i had to rush around and do some errands. i dropped tad off so he could find a place to stay. i had to rush home and then meet havanaman. he was in buenos aires staying at my apartment and brought some money for me. it was extremely nice of him to do that. i met him at the ingleterra and he was with his amiga friend. she was a pretty girl that seemed intelligent. havanaman asked me to fib and tell her that i was a colleague from the states. no big deal to me. i hope he had fun with her.
i had to rush and pick up seaman. as i was nearing the airport i got pulled over yet again by another police. i wasn’t doing anything wrong but he asked to see my driver’s license. of course i didn’t have it. remember to always have your driver’s license with you if you rent a car. i think this is one of the easiest ways for cops to make money. i told him i wasn’t going to pay a fine. we sat there arguing for at least 20 minutes. he wanted a $30 fine. i told him i didn’t have that much anyway. i told him that i was going to be late and i was starting to get pissed. he said that he would have the car towed away. i knew he was lying but i now running late picking up seaman. i offered him $10 and told him to take it or leave it. he immediately started being nice and i called him a ladron (thief) to his face as i was pulling away.
i picked up seaman and he wasn’t ready. he was up at the vip lounge finishing his drinks. it was good to see him again. we last saw each other in rio just a few months ago. he activated his cellphone service and we were on our way.
of course we had to ask for directions on the way back to havana. i think seaman got a sense of what cuba was like when we asked this group for directions when we were on the road for only about 15 minutes. he forgot to lock the back doors and this group of drunken guys and one girl gets in. they were obviously drinking all day as it was christmas eve. believe it or not, 4 of them fit in the backseat along with their 2 big bottles of rum. seaman and i were ok with it at first until after about 3 minutes they were obnoxious and i kicked them out.
we make it to havana and seaman gets checked in to the same apartment as me. we both showered and headed out and met tad at the ingleterra hotel. we had a few mojitos then headed to casa de la musica near there. there are two cdm’s. the cover was $15 but there were plenty of girls outside. i told them i just planned on hooking up with one of them outside of the club. tons of girls were asking to pay for them to enter. i told them i wasn’t here to listen to music. i was here to hook up. i went to the restaurant next door with a cutie but she wanted like $70 or so. i took a pass as her attitude seemed too pro. i hooked up with this girl. she seemed nice. seaman also hooked up and we drove to our apartment.
back at the apartment i start sessioning with the girl. first sign of trouble is she wants the money up front. we negotiated for $50 since they knew we were saving $15 from entering so it was more like $35. i told her that i wasn’t going to pay and she could leave. i didn’t want to ruin the moment so i told her half now and half later. the start of the session was ok but only after about 30 minutes she is saying to finish. i tell her to be quiet. then she tries this routine of saying she is ****. yeah right. she says i could get in trouble with the police. i told her to call them and kept going. then i told her she was free to leave with ½ her money. she quickly shut up. she actually started getting into it and we finished but i noticed that the condom broke at some point. we both freaked out a little. i took a shower and so did she. she kept bitching and it was actually her fault since she used one of her shitty condoms. i asked to see the condoms and they were shitty condoms that looked a few months past their expiration date.
she kept bitching how she wasn’t on the pill. i just wanted her to leave at this point. it was about one hour after she arrived. i gave her the other half of the money. she said she was leaving with seaman’s girl and i told her to just leave alone. she went and got the other girl and we were all sitting in my room for a while. it was kind of awkward since the two old ladies we were staying with couldn’t sleep and they were in the other room watching tv at about 2:30 am. they tried to call for a taxi but no dice. they just left.
seaman and i joked around for a while after that in my room but we both decided to find a new place the next day.
day 7
seaman and i did our best to sleep in. he succeeded. i didn’t. the traffic noise from the street on linea was a little too much to handle for me. seaman had a guy from the uk staying next to his room and i guess seaman accidentally locked the bathroom door they shared so i had to wake him up to open it.
we ended up all having breakfast together. “m” from the uk was a really cool guy. this was his first trip and he had never hobbied before. he assumed cuba was this easy place where model quality girls were willing to sleep with you from the clubs for pocket change. everyone makes cuba sound like this easy place with tons of hotties but it simply is not. “m” had the same opinion as i did that the quality of the general population of girls here isn’t that great. he was dating a brasilera in the uk so he was used to hot girls. he was also a younger good looking dude. i showed him some trip reports and told him about wsg and ch. he was amazed and was studying them like a good novel. seaman and i were laughing. i told him maybe we’d hook up later in the trip and he did call a few times but i was always busy with a chica. (if you’re reading this “m”, sorry we couldn’t hook up).
seaman and i hooked up with frank and took him to ingleterra for a few drinks. i kept telling frank i wanted to move to miramar but he said everything was full. after drinks i told him that i just wanted to go to miramar and we would find something. tad bumped into while we were having drinks so we all went together. we ended up talking to a guy that knew a guy that had a place. that is usually how it is when you’re looking for a place. all of the casa particular owners help each other with referrals. it’s a nice system of you scratch my back and i’ll scratch yours.
we saw several nice apartments and we all decided to book our places. tad had the nicest apartment but he was sharing it with a fruity looking gay italian guy. my casa owners were by far the coolest. i was super happy with my place. we were going to travel in a few days and we negotiated a deal where we wanted them to hold our casas while we were gone. we paid about $35 a day while we were there and $25 a day while we weren’t. it was a good insurance policy for me. we were planning on traveling 3 nights and then coming back for nye.
at the ingleterra we tried calling some girls but couldn’t get through to many of them. i think i left a message at one of the girls place because she called me back. i asked her to bring a friend for seaman and they arrived shortly afterwards. my girl was a hottie and seaman’s girl was cute too. his girl had an awesome personality. she was funny as hell. i stayed in my apartment and seaman went over to his place a block away. tad decided to take it easy and wait till the night.
seaman and i had killer sessions. after about 2 or 3 hours we called each other and decided to eat with our girls. i told seaman to walk over to my apartment. after a few minutes seaman calls me to tell me there is a problem. he was walking with his girl when they spotted a cop and they did something that probably wasn’t too smart. he walked away from the girl which probably signaled to the cop they were scared. seaman tells me the cop is talking to her and he asked seaman to go back and get his passport. i tell him to call me back in a few minutes with a progress report. he calls me back and tells me the cop says he is radioing for a car. i figure it’s all bullshit and tell him to wait there. tad comes over to my apartment and i tell him what’s going on. he hangs out with my girl while i grab my passport and head to talk to the cop.
i arrive with seaman looking frazzled. i go over to the cop and ask him what the problem is and why he is harassing my friend. i told him seaman flew here to spend nye with his novia of 6 months. the funny thing is he was probably like me and couldn’t remember our “novia’s” names. seaman tells me that he offered the cop a $10 bribe which he didn’t accept. then the cop plays hardball with me asking me where i’m staying. i tell him the street but not the apartment # but he starts naming all the addresses on calle 28 that rent rooms. i immediately call tad and have him get my girl out of there as she didn’t have an id on her and there was some question on her real age.
the cop asks who i’m calling and i whip out a business card of a lawyer i had met. i told him i have friends in cuba that are lawyers. at this point i could sense he just wanted to get the hell out of there too. the last thing these cops want is attention or to get in trouble. he tells seaman and i to go stand away while he talks to seaman’s girl. i guess he demanded the $10 from seaman’s girl and not us. he didn’t want us to know he was doing that. asshole.
we all walked off together and got in my car and went to my place. tad was alone and we drove around to find my girl. we found her walking home alone a few blocks away. we all were in the car laughing and joking. the girls wanted to eat with us. my girl suggests this restaurant but she was shaking on where it was so we end up driving around a good bit. it turns out it is right near our casas. it wasn’t a cheap place but we had a great time. it was hilarious in the restaurant because seaman and i were convincing tad to ask one of the flute players to sit down and join us. tad thought she was cute.
we are the only ones in the restaurant and the singers are serenading us and making up songs about us. it was funny. then i ask the head waiter to ask the girl to join us. i think she was shy and another couple walked in around this time so she had to continue playing her flute. i would have loved to see tad score with her. the bill wasn’t cheap as me and my date had steak and lobster. i think my portion with tip was around $90 or $100 that included several drinks, appetizers, dinner, dessert and coffee.
during dessert i ask seaman’s girl if she has any friends for tad. she says of course. she goes on to say that the girl lives far away. i tell her if it’s a problem we can just forget it and hook him up later. i thought she said it was too far but we ended up driving all the way to this girl’s house which was a good 25 ride towards the airport. it was comical. picture this. we drop the girls off. they tell us to wait. we are waiting outside for a good 15 minutes. i guess the girl was sleeping. they woke her up and got her dolled up and all walk up to the car. i saw the girl’s mom in the doorway and i wondered what she thought about all of this. i later found out by asking several girls and their mothers knew what they did and didn’t question it. many of these girls support their families this way so it’s a don’t ask don’t tell policy with their families.
tad’s girl was cute and had a killer body. he was very pleased. at this point it’s after 1 am and we decide to head to our apartments. i had another great great session with my girl and she fell asleep in my arms. seaman’s girl claimed to have to wake up early at 6 am but around 10 am i get a call saying she had to leave and we rounded up the girls. i had to wake tad up with a phone call and he and his girl came over.
i was kind of in a difficult situation because at dinner my girl who was a total non pro was asking me why i gave her money earlier. when tad was rushing her out i told him to give her some money. so she was asking why i was giving her money. i’m not sure if she was playing a game or being serious but she didn’t seem happy. i told her it was taxi fare but taxi’s didn’t cost $35. the next morning i didn’t know if i should have given her more but i stuck another $10 in her purse. she never mentioned money to me. i wanted to leave more but didn’t want to offend her.
we found out later that tad gave his girl $35 or so and a few days later the girls told us the girl wouldn’t repeat for that little money again.
day 8
after the girls left we all showered and agreed to meet back at my place. we were going to do some sightseeing. we went down to havana viejo and walked around a good bit. we went to the street vendors with all their old books. it was really fascinating to see all the old relics that they were selling.
i seemed to always be hungry this trip. i think part of it is that the food isn’t really that filling there. i eat very well in the usa and when i travel so my body wasn’t used to these shitty smaller sized meals. seaman and tad joked throughout the trip how i was always hungry or eating. we had some drinks in plaza de san francisco and i of course had a salad, fries and a pork sandwich which was actually pretty good.
we ended up driving around a bit. my mind is a little fuzzy for some reason on day 8 during the day. one thing i do remember is the day after i saw the girl from casa de la musica somehow she got my cellphone number. i think she was playing with my phone and dialed her cellphone so she had it on caller id. i never gave it to her. she ended up calling me and asking if i wanted to see her again. she had a “y” name too and at first i thought it was another girl. when i figured out it was her i hung up on her. seaman and tad were laughing. i went on to see her later in the trip and she asked me why i hung up on her. my only response was she was the devil.
that night i think we went to la chorrera which was where i had the best luck. there were several cute girls that night. the funny thing is there are several girls in the parking lot hanging out. when we were getting in our car a group came over. one girl had a very pretty face and amazing eyes. her body seemed pretty good but hard to tell. i think her name was correlia or something like that. she seemed really shy. she said she was 22 years old. she was wearing jeans and this aqua blue shirt. she later became known as bsg (blue shirt girl) because every single day she wore the same shirt. poor girl. seaman was deciding if he should session with her or not. i told him the classic line, “if you don’t i will” which usually always does the trick.
bsg got in our car and we were going to drop seaman off at his place with his girl. she was really nervous and her hands were shaking. i was sitting in the backseat with her and trying to put her at ease. i can imagine how nervous she was sitting in a car alone with for all she knew were 3 perverts. there was another cute girl there that tad liked but when he inquired her age she was only 17. he took a pass. we saw that girl too several other nights. she was always usually drunk but always had a smile on her face.
we dropped off seaman and tad and i decided to try going to macumba. it was very difficult to find but we finally arrive. it was funny along the way a white mercedes pulls up to us asking if the girls can enter with us. we tell them we don’t even know if we are going to go in. i kind of just wanted to see it. we get there and i tell the girls i don’t think we are going to go in. i went in to look at it looked dead so we took a pass. the girls were bummed because they can’t enter with out a male escort. they get in our car and we drop them off where they can flag a taxi. it was funny because tad remembered one girl from two nights before when he was at casa de la musica in havana. tad ended up picking up a girl that night from that place. i think he paid like $40.
so it’s late maybe around 2:30 am or so. i’m not too tired but tad is so i drop him off at his apartment and i go back to la chorrera. i didn’t even have to go in as there were girls mulling about the parking lot. i flirted with one and we were off. she was really pretty and a little shy at first. she stayed several hours and she ended up falling asleep there. it was maybe 5:30 or so when she left and i slept very bad that morning. we were leaving for our little side just a few hours later so i had to get a few hours sleep. i think i paid her $40 + taxi fare home.
day 9
we had to renew the car rental that day and figured we would go early and get a good start on driving to viñales. we get to the rental car place and there are 5 guys sitting around not doing much of anything. such is life in cuba. people are employed by the government even if they have no primary functions or responsibilities. rental cars were impossible to find this time of year. i got lucky into getting the week long rental i had and my travel agent said that was only due to a cancellation. the guy i rented it from told me no problem getting it renewed on december 27th. i trusted him.
so we are in the office and these clowns said no way we can extend it. i say to get the main guy on the phone. he says he needs to talk to his manager then says it’s impossible. i refuse to take no for an answer. in the meantime we are calling all these other agencies. there is not even one car available to rent in all of havana. i finally get him back on the phone and now he is saying it’s possible but to come back at 2 pm. this shot our plans as we wanted to leave early.
we decided to go to chinatown and eat. there really is no real chinatown. it’s all of 3 blocks or so and there aren’t any asians there. we only saw one guy that was the manager of the restaurant. it’s not real chinese food but kind of a hodgepodge of ingredients. we all got the same thing and the order was huge.
we get back to the car rental agency and now it’s possible. yeah! we extend it and add seaman’s name to the contract. now, all three names were on the car contract. we blow out of there and head to viñales. we are on the highway and seaman and i want to take the backroads as the view from the autopista is not that great.
we drove through bahia honda – la palma – vinales. seaman missed his calling. he could have been an indy car driver. the problem is that these roads weren’t made for racecar drivers. they are windy and the roads in certain spots are in very poor condition. a few times we were airborne and one time we lost some tread on the tires. i think tad and i were kind of wondering to ourselves if we were going to get into an accident. i was sitting in the front seat and decided to put on my seat belt.
the views were breathtaking and amazing. i wanted to take pictures and so did seaman but tad was very nervous about it getting dark. i had never seen him get nervous. i kept saying we’d be fine, no worries. seaman didn’t seem to be too worried either but that was part of the reason he was driving so fast. we didn’t want to be on this shitty road when it got dark.
i would highly recommend driving along this route. it was amazing some of the things we saw. there were mountains in the background nestled with palm trees and sugar cane fields. certain parts of the drive approaching bahia honda there were great views of the bay.
we made it to viñales and it’s a very very small town. we had to drive around looking for enough rooms for 3 people. we all wanted our own rooms. we finally managed to find 3 places. i kept asking people about the chica scene and they kept saying there were girls. let me tell you something…. there are not any girls in viñales.
we showered then met at the only restaurant in town. it was decent. then we began exploring. the town like most towns in cuba had a casa de la musica. we went and it was filled with teenagers. we left and went to two bars that were packed with tourists but no locals. we then went to the caves where they had a bar but it also was dead. we got one drink then left. i asked a few guys there were all the action was and they told me café “arta”. turns out it was café artex and that was the shitty bar that we already went to. we were in disbelief. we kept walking around the main stretch but there were only very young kids out. it was like an alfred hitchcock movie where all the adults in town were eliminated. i only saw young kids. we were all in disbelief. seaman and i wanted to hobby. i would have been fine if i didn’t but i would at least like the option to. there was zero action in this town and we decided to leave the next day.
day 10
we decided the night before to meet at 10 am after breakfast and head to piñar del rio. first we drove around viñales a little and snapped some photos. my casa owner was pretty and probably would have been a site to see ten years earlier. it was a shame she was married and her husband was home when i came back home. she was sweet and gave her the name of her friend in piñar del rio.
we arrived in town and went straight to zoima. she was this spunky 28 year old with a pretty good body. i was flirting with her but she too was married. her room was booked but she went all over helping us find 3 rooms. she was great. we kept confirming that we could bring chicas home and each place said no problem. we were excited. this town seemed like it had a life and it was bigger.
instead of giving zoima some money we decided to eat dinner at her house that night so she could make some money that way. i flirted some more with her and she was taking things well joking around. we went off exploring the city and taking some pictures. we spent several hours eating and drinking at a neighborhood outdoor bar. so far i wasn’t seeing any hot girl which was worrisome. i still held out for hope though. in the bar we saw this nerdy looking american with this big black lady. that was at least a good sign.
i needed some rest so i decided to just try to relax a few hours before we ate dinner. my casa owner was super cool but the problem is their neighbor had a loud dog that kept barking all afternoon. i wanted to kill that dog. i got zero rest. i knew i couldn’t stay there more than one night. the bed also sucked which was common in every place we stayed.
i walked up one flight of stairs to seaman’s pad. his casa owners were super cool. they had a cute daughter that lived in havana studying in university. we all speculated if she saw some tourists on the side but my guess is no. we had a few cocktails then headed to dinner. at dinner i joked around with zoima that we wanted to hook up. i asked her to set us up with her friends. she promised to the next day but said that at this late notice she couldn’t. we had a decent meal and joked around with her. it’s funny that many of these people have very little money but several places we went had these big ghetto blaster type stereos.
we were feeling good and decided to go to the place everyone said was good. café pinar was the name of it. it was predictably dead since it was still rather early. it might have been around 10 pm. here is where the story gets interesting. i see a lone girl in the street. it’s obvious she is “working”. she is cute so i go talk to her. i learned that you session when you can. i joke around with her and she kind of follows us as we walked down to the corner store to get some booze. i tell the fellas i’m going to go session with her. she gives me the scoop on pinar del rio. she tells me it’s extremely difficult to work here because the police are very strict. she told me all the girls are scared to work. then i asked why she wasn’t scared and she simply told me she wasn’t a working girl. yeah, ok. she went on to say that no girl would go to a casa particular because they write down their id # and the police regularly check the log books. no wonder all the casa owners were saying it’s ok to have girls. none would come over! i ask her how much for a room and she says $10 plus another $25 for her. no problem. then she tells me to wait while she tries to find a room. i see her walking down the street. she comes back after about 5 minutes saying she can’t find a room. she asked me to please wait there. she was going to check on another room. i waited around for a while but she never came back. seaman, tad and i were kind of flabbergasted. everything was set and i was ready to session and we wondered what happened to her. i was sure she didn’t get another tourist as there were none. i worried that something happened to her. she was very eager to work. the ironic thing was the next day as we were going to leave in our car we saw her. she walked by us without saying anything and she was crying. we speculated the night before the police saw her talking to me and they might have taken her for a night. after seeing her the next day i’m almost sure that is what happened.
so, after this we hear about another place that has girls. we were originally told it was 5 blocks away. we kept walking and walking and walking. we’d ask directions and they kept saying further and further. by this point we’d just killed about 35-45 minutes. it was about a mile away but we finally made it there. i just wanted to go to this disco that the girl from seaman’s casa was going to with her friends. she was all dressed up and looked pretty good. anyway, we’re at this hotel and it looks like a total tourist hang out and we didn’t see any girls so we don’t even pay the cover. i flagged a taxi and we went to the disco club.
we get to the disco and there is a very very long line and they are not letting many people in at a time. we waited but ended up leaving to check the street action again on that one street. it was dead! not a girl in sight. tad was getting tired but i told them there is no way in hell i was going home without at least trying. we took a taxi back to the disco and the line was still there. we waited and waited. we offered bribes to the doormen and believe it or not they didn’t accept it. there was cuban american from miami there visiting his friends and he was drunk but also annoyed they wouldn’t let him in either. cubans were climbing the fence to get in but that did little good because there was security at the front door. i couldn’t believe it. here we were in cuba and the doormen wouldn’t take a bribe to get in. ridiculous!
finally we gave up when they said they are definitely not letting anyone else in. at that point i didn’t even care about anything. i just wanted to see the inside of this place. i couldn’t believe it. we went back to the street and it was still dead. we agreed to leave the next day. there was some talk between tad and seaman about hitting some other city. i politely asked them to drop me off in havana on the way to wherever they were going.
it was about 2 am when i got home. i came home and finished one of the books i brought called the pilot’s wife. it was actually a good book but it was kind of surreal to believe i was in cuba at 2 am and reading a book.
day 11
we woke up semi early and got packed up. i went over to seaman’s place and the family he was staying with was talking to us. they were totally cool and their casa was nice with a nice balcony where you could sit and have drinks.
tad picks us up in the car and as we are waiting for seaman i happen to see the girl that i originally was going to see the night before. i just didn’t understand it what happened to her. she saw us and walked by and she was crying. i suspect that maybe she spent the night in jail or something along those lines. she clearly looked a little scared and didn’t even talk to us this time. just think that she got into trouble just for talking to us on the street. imagine what would have happened had she gotten caught after sessioning with me. this is the part of cuba i didn’t like. any guy can say what they want about how fun cuba is, how it has hot girls, yadda yadda yadda. the simple truth of the matter is that the police do have the right to arrest girls for prostitution. can you imagine a girl you just sessioned with getting 4 years hard labor for spending time with you?
we head back and seaman is deciding if he wants to go to matanzas with tad. i could give a rat’s ass what they did. i only requested they drop me off in havana on their way. seaman told me that he also wanted to head home to havana. that left tad stuck in havana as seaman and i were paying for the rental car.
we decided to take the same route we took to get here. it was a shame we couldn’t stop and take photos earlier on our way here so this would be our 'redeeming' chance. the views were amazing driving back once again and this time i took lots of pictures. i just got 5 rolls of film developed and almost every one is great. cuba is a very photogenic place. we stopped a few times to try to get bottled water but it was tough finding it. most places only had carbonated water in the small towns. we finally did find some in one town where tad and i went in. the funny thing was some cuban guy in line was apparently trying to impress us with the wad of cash he had. he must have had at least $500 on him. his clothes were soiled, he looked like he hadn’t showered in weeks, his hands and face had dirt on it but somehow he thought he would impress us with his wad. i found it interesting more than anything. he was getting two sodas and first pulled out a $100 bill. the cashier said he had no change so he pulls out a $50 then a $20. finally he ends up paying for it with two $1 bills. it was kind of comical.
we get outside and seaman is in the car talking to some cuban dudes. the guys are trying to ask us if we want girls but i told them i want a model hot girl that is skinny. one dude said that he knew some girls in a casa but they were a little on the bigger side. he said, “chicas son chicas”. (girls are girls). we were on our way to bahia honda.
we joked around on the way home. seaman and i have bonded on a few trips this year but it was nice that seaman and tad got along very well too. we were all pretty like minded individuals. different in our own ways but still had things in common.
we arrived at la palma to eat and have lunch. no restaurants were visible from the main road so we decided to have pizza which we saw everyone eating. there was a line for pizza because they were making it fresh. it’s not the same kind of pizza we have in the us. it’s more like bread made in cast iron skillets and had a little tomato paste smeared on with lots of cheese. it was actually pretty good. the cost was 5 pesos. (26 pesos = $1 us). i got two pizzas and told her to keep the change because i doubt she would have given me any. she clearly knew the exchange rate though as i told her in spanish 26:1 and she nodded yes.
we walked around a bit and the city had some cute girls. one thing i noticed here is many of the girls had green eyes and were lighter skinned. we went to a grocery store and got some water and some snacks. the people here are all friendly. we were a novelty as there were no tourists in town. this town is not on the main highway so i doubt many tourists come here. no one has any intention to scam that i noticed. even when we bought bananas on the street here there were no signs with prices. tad gave him a 50 centavo convertible coin which is equivalent to 50 cents us. we only grabbed a few bananas and they guy looked at the coin and kept trying to give us more bananas. it was funny.
another funny banana moment was in piñar de rio after dinner the lady didn’t have dessert but gave us bananas. when we weren’t hungry she tried giving us the bananas to take with us. i joked that we were going to the bar to meet girls and unless the girls liked bananas we had no use for them. we all started cracking up on that one. sometimes i crack myself up. is that so wrong? ha, ha.
we make it to havana and it felt good to get back here. we saw some sw’s on calle 5 in miramar as we were driving home. on the way home i called this girl that frank had given us the number for. i can’t remember if i posted it before but she came over another night with two friends. the problem was that one girl looked super young and when i asked her age she was only 17. the girl was totally cute. when i told her of the problem with the **** girl cosita was joking around. her english is decent. she was joking around saying, “illegally blonde 3”. her other friend looked of age but didn’t have an id which was suspicious and usually signals under 18. they gave us an all or non option which we passed on. the girl’s name was cosita and she was cute but not really my type. i had to pay $10 taxi fare for them to get there and i think seaman gave them $10 to leave.
anyway, i called cosita as we were approaching havana. i told her to come over with two friends but make sure both the girls are at least 18. she promised she would make sure. i also told her all the girls needed id’s.
we showered then met up at this place along 1st avenue along the beach for drinks and to grab something to eat. tad and i were deciding who would see whom. seaman was going to see the girl who cosita brought last time with no id. i was either going to see cosita or her friend. it was a gamble for me. we flipped a coin who would decide. i won. i could either pick cosita who was cute or take her friend. i decided to gamble and said i would take her friend.
we get to my apartment to meet them and i have to go pay the taxi $10. the girls weren’t using panataxi’s and it was more expensive. i see the girl and she has a booming body. her face is cute enough and i’m happy with my gamble. the problem starts back in my apartment. the one girl that came last time upon being carded isn’t 18 yet even though she claimed to be and didn't look like she was ****. seaman refused to see her. tad wasn’t willing to risk it either. we were told by another girl that you can see a 17 year old if there is less than a 15 year difference in age of the older guy. i never knew if this was true or not. tad wasn’t interested in seeing the new girl. i was the peacemaker and took it for the team. i wasn’t attracted to the younger girl but i just wanted to make things work. i would have seen seaman’s girl though if that kept things happy. prices were never discussed as frank told us the going rate for a short term session was about $30 to $40 max.
i had a really good session and she was very affectionate. i was contemplating another round when i get a knock on the door and it’s cosita who looks pissed. she asked me if i am done. my answer is, “i guess i am now”. i ask her what happened and she said that tad is crazy and only wants to pay $30. i ask her how much she wants and she says $100. i look at her as if she is crazy and told her she is crazy. my girl i’m with doesn’t ask me for any money. i had a good session so i’m not really bothered by things but i do feel bad for tad. i just wanted cosita out of my place. i called tad and he is surprised she is there as she told him she was going home. even after they disagreed on price he was a cool guy to keep her there so she wouldn’t bother my session. i think it was about an hour or so.
i took a quick shower to rinse off since i just sessioned. seaman calls and said that he had problems with his girl too. oops. i told him to come over and the girls needed to leave. cosita was a b*tch! seaman’s girl was a b*tch. my girl was just clueless and not a pro. my girl still never asked me for money and i gave her $40 and kissed her goodbye.
after we kicked them out we met up and compared notes. i guess seaman had a decent session but then the girl started asking about money and wasn’t happy with what seaman was going to give her. she demanded $50 and he gave it to her. at least he got to finish. these bitches tried taking all these snacks i had and i noticed that cosita stole all this change i had in a jar after they left. i hate carrying around change so i just put it in a cup every time i returned home. while i was showering she must have stolen it. it wasn’t a lot of money but more of the point of what she did.
tad was totally turned off by this whole process. i think he was expecting tons of beautiful model type girls that were all over and not jaded. that is not the case here. the guy from the uk that we met was expecting the same thing and he was severely disappointed too. one thing you have to remember is that normal girls don’t have the opportunity to go to nice places. there is usually a cover fee at most nice places. what girl that isn’t “working” can afford to pay the amount many people make in a month???
the rest of the night is kind of a blur but i think we went to la chorrera and i hooked up with a girl from there. i think seaman picked up a girl from the parking lot and so did tad.
day 12
went to playa del este and it wasn’t sunny but had a nice time joking around as usual. seaman and tad were good company. we tried picking up girls on the way home but it’s not as easy as you would think. i’ve personally never picked up street walkers and it’s not really my thing.
i called seaman’s girl and set him up for a session and he said it was greater than ever. (he even shaved her). tad didn’t session in about 3 days and seemed content. he didn’t really come here to hobby although he was expecting to hook up once a day if he could.
i think there are many guys out there that expect to hook up with some farm girl and buy them a few drinks and have the girl happily session with them. this might be possible but not in havana. the days of sessioning with a hot girl for a coke and a smile are over forever here.
my girl was supposed to hook up with me and i told her to bring a friend for tad. she said she was anxious to see me.. she wanted to come over earlier but i was at the beach. when i called back she seemed to be having family problems. i waited a while and seaman and tad went to eat. finally i just said enough of this. i walked to where they were eating (which was great by the way). y calls saying she wants to come over. i tell her to come to the restaurant and she says ok. 15 minutes. then when i get there she wants me to pick her up. it was just too much. i told her that we could do our own thing tonight and we were planning on going out for nye together.
we started at the parking lot of la chorrera which is at the end of the malecon. you don’t read much press about it but it is a solid lead for girls inside and outside waiting to hook up. seaman and myself both picked up girls in the parking lot as we were leaving. it’s hit or miss.
anyway, i left with them to casa de la musica near the prado and it sucked. i was going to go in with tad and seaman but the lines were long, the girls were aggressive and fowl, and i just didn’t feel the vive with anyone. i took my own taxi back to la chorrera. i felt good. got a drink and had to chase some girls away but one of them in a cool manner told me she thought i was attractive. we started to talk price and she just asked me to throw something out there. that’s what these girls do. they want to see how much of a moron you will be. some guys might through out $100 when a girl will go for $50 or less.
my goal that night was to see someone hot and get a great session. i accomplished both. this 22 year old blonde in great shape approached me. we both threw compliments at each other. i don’t care if a girl is lying or not. the important thing is that she makes me believe it. it all happened quickly after that. she told me to throw out an offer. i said $40 was fair for a few hours. she said $60 was the going rate for a professional hottie. we joked and we were having a fun time and agreed upon $50. that included that taxi fare home too so i didn’t have to pay anything extra.
she was excellent! she was from santa clara and was going home for the holidays the following morning. however, she did give me her phone number and invited me to call her in a few days when she returned.
day 13
we did some touristy stuff today. saw more of the city and took lots of pictures. havana is a great walking city. however, i would highly recommend renting a car. it isn’t a cheap option but you have the freedom to go wherever you want whenever you want. it’s an easy city to drive in since there are not too many cars on the road. the only problem is if you go outside of the city since there are virtually no signs to direct you where to go.
we walked on the malecon and decided to stop by a café. it turns out it was a chinese restaurant believe it or not. some young kid was pestering seaman. seaman was taking pictures and this 18 year old kid followed him down to the malecon. when he came back to the café he was asking us if we wanted girls. seaman and i decided there was no risk since i confirmed if the girls were ugly we would take a no risk pass. the kid agreed. shortly thereafter he brings up a really pretty mulatto girl named mariela. she claimed to have been 18 although she said she left her carnet at home which is never a good sign. the three of us encountered many girls that were really cute but either said they were 17 or told us they were 18 and we noticed on their carnets they were 18 and passed.
anyway, we bought the kid a cuba libre and seaman bought mariela lunch and drinks. she had a good attitude but we assumed she was a total pro when we saw her two gold teeth. it’s funny because you’ll see all these girls with two gold teeth. i asked mariela about it and she said it’s the current fashion trend among (working) girls.
one way we kind of goaded each other into sessioning is we would say, “if you don’t session with her i will”. it wasn’t said out of a dare it was more of a “threat” that if the guy didn’t decide then and there the other would pounce on her. she wanted $50 but i helped negotiate it down to $40 for a short time session. seaman left in a taxi with her.
tad and i walked around and took more pictures. we had a drink at the café next to the ingleterra. it was slow since it was nye. there were a couple girls mulling around but neither of us was really going to force anything. tad was a good influence on me as i never had the desire to see tons of girls. if i saw someone i really wanted i’d act on it.
i ended up talking to seaman and he was pleased with his session with mariela. he confirmed our suspicions that she was a pro. she wasn’t gfe but she knew what she was doing and aimed to please. which begs the question whether you would you rather have a gfe session with bad sex or a total porno type session that drains you dry with no gfe? when i posed the question to seaman our minds were thinking alike when he said why not have both that day. ha, ha.
the girl i was going to spend nye with was acting flaky and appeared to be having family problems. i guess what can you expect from someone that just got out of high school?? honestly i prefer girls a little older. i like 20, 21, 22, 23 year olds. havana seems to have a huge pool of talent that is in the 17-19 age range. most of the girls we asked were only 18. i talked to seaman’s girl and she confirmed her plans to show up and meet us at my apartment. i told her to bring 2 of her hot friends. she said no problem.
tad and i had to decide who would see who. we had this problem another night. i gave him the option to take the first or last girl that walked in. he chose the first. when the girls arrived i thought about just cutting them loose. we planned to spend nye at macumba for one of the hottest gigs in town. one of the hottest bands in cuba was playing. (charanga habanera). i figured worst case we could pay their entrance fee and then drink a little and leave. we were told it was a $20 cover to enter. when we got to macumba there was a line. i bs’ed and said we had reservations. they weren’t letting anyone without reservations in. many people were walking away. we made our way to the front of the line and i lied and said we had reservations. i guess it was impossible since they weren’t taking reservations just for the entrance. only if you had their nye dinner special you were allowed on the sacred list. in any case they told us to stand to the side and this rude bouncer told us to go back to the line. seaman was especially pissed but couldn’t really argue in spanish so kept telling me to. i tried a few times to talk to someone in authority but the bouncer wouldn’t let me in.
i figured money talks and bull shit walks. i had the telephone number and called the club on my cell phone. i told the lady that answered that i was in line with 5 of my friends and i had $100 to spend to get us in asap. seaman put in $50 and i put in $50 and we essentially bought our way into the hottest gig in town without reservations. the cover was $40 per person instead of the $20 that they advertised. so besides the $50 @ bribe it was $80 per couple to get in. oh well, like anything else in cuba…. what can you do??
unfortunately only seaman’s girl was cute. my girl had a cute face but her body was not my type. truth be told tad’s girl was downright scary. it turns out the two girls were cousin’s of seaman’s girl. tad and i thought if we drank heavily that would solve our problems. as predicted, it did not. my girl was session worthy but just had a bad attitude. i tried pulling out all the punches to butter her up but it wasn’t happening.
it was getting late and tad and i decided we must leave and look for girls. honestly i didn’t care if we hooked up or not. i just wanted to leave these girls. it wasn’t a good situation. seaman’s girl is bright and figured out we just weren’t interested. i told my girl that i had a stomach ache and had to leave. tad didn’t make any excuse. he barely talked to his girl as he didn’t want to give her any hope whatsoever. they just asked for taxi fare home. we each gave them $20 and i explained to seaman’s girl that there were many drunken italian dudes and i’m sure the girls could hook up if they put their hearts to it. (i was happy to hear the next day from seaman that both girls hooked up with drunken italians. i’m sure the guy that hooked up with tad’s girl woke up regretting coming to cuba).
by this point it was very late. it was 3:00 am on nye. the chances of hooking up were not in our favor but we took a taxi ride to la chorrera. predictably there were very few good girls left. i almost forced a session just to session but i came to my senses. i talked to a girl with a good body but a not so good face. i just threw out a $20 offer and i was surprised and kind of backed into a corner when she said yes. i politely told her that i was too tired and invited her to go find another dude. i gave her $1 and apologized. i did see a semi cute girl but she wanted something like $70 and i didn’t even have the energy to negotiate. tad and i decided to cut our losses and just go home. it was after 4 am at this point.
day 14
the gang all did the best we could to sleep in. we decided today would be a relaxing day. it was tad’s last night and we let him decide what we were going to do. tad was a great guy to hook up with. we spent over two weeks in cuba together and he was a good traveling companion. it felt good to know i made a new friend. he had never been on a “hobbying” trip and he really did a good job of turning this into more of a trip enjoying the country. i would probably have never gone to trinidad if he didn’t suggest we go. seaman was skeptical when i emailed him telling him i met a cool guy but seaman got along with him really well too.
we walked around havana viejo and then decided to walk the malecon for some sunset pictures. i got so many great photographs this trip of the city. i really started falling in love with havana. it’s a totally different destination that really takes some time to get to know but once you do it will get under your skin. i really will miss this place and don’t want to leave in a few days.
seaman’s girl from the day before called him and she was interested in a little session. she said she was with her friend. we happened to be in the area where she lived so i gave her our location and she said she would meet us. shortly thereafter she arrives with her friend. her friend was nothing to write home about. i originally was going to session with her hot friend but it turns out her hottie friend was stuck with family and couldn’t make it. i told mariela that no one wanted her friend. i asked seaman if he would repeat and then asked tad and both said they weren’t up for it. of course i was horny and she looked fantastic so we agreed upon the same $40 + $6 for taxi from miramar back to havana central.
i knew going in that she wouldn’t be super gfe. i didn’t care. she looked great and seaman said she was great in bed. we arrived and as predicted she wasn’t gfe but she was awesome in bed. that girl had some moves! she let me take lots of pictures. at first only with her clothes on. then i started showing her how great they looked and she asked me to take more with her clothes off. she was very photogenic. she stayed a while then showered and left.
i hooked up with the fellas and we went to dinner at this awesome restaurant next to la chorrera. you can’t miss it. it’s at the end of the malecon before you hit the tunnel to miramar. it’s not a cheap place and fancy but the food is good. tad was nice enough to pick up the tab for dinner, a bottle of wine and drinks. he said he appreciated all that seaman and i had done. i was sorry to see him go. it would end up being our last night together since seaman decided to drive to trinidad alone the following morning.
i should mention that seaman saw the bsg (blue shirt girl) as usual in her predictable spot. we grew to kind of feel sorry for her. she always had on the same blue shirt every single day that we were in havana. seaman saw her and wanted to give her a new year’s present. he stopped and gave her $10 at the side of road near the entrance to la chorrera. as he gave her the money some dude whistled to signal that the cops were behind in a car. she scurried away scared. we were right at the restaurant parking lot and parked. tad was driving. he didn’t have her driver’s license on him. the cops were looking for another bribe for not possessing a license. we all had had enough. we said we weren’t paying but the cops wouldn’t leave. my spanish is totally decent and i didn’t have problems communicating with the police. they asked for $30 and i told them that was ridiculous. finally i confidently told them i was a lawyer that did business in havana. i told them i had many coworker friends that were lawyers here. i said that tad would be happy to pay the fine but that i needed a receipt with both of their names on it. as soon as i said that they both got scared and said they would never demand money and that we didn’t understand them correctly. bastards. we laughed about it afterwards.
if you rent a car and stay in miramar and are in havana for any significant time you will get pulled over by the cops. just don’t show fear. that was the 6th skirmish with the police. i was getting good at avoiding shakedowns. seaman also got pulled once. he also was motioned to pull over by police on foot. we just ignored the police if they didn’t have a motorcycle or a car. there isn’t really anything they can do. sure they could radio ahead but they are just looking for a bribe. do not pay these as it will only encourage them to keep doing it. i’m sure many guys pay it as they can’t speak spanish or are scared. make sure in miramar you don’t make a turn anywhere you aren’t supposed to. for some stupid reason you can not make a turn on many of the streets. you have to wait for a major intersection or just go around the block and find a street with a light.
after dinner we went behind the restaurant to los jardines for a “fashion show” that was going on. it was horrible. some of the girls were hot but the clothes were hideous. we had one drink and left to go next door to la chorrera. in the parking lot tad saw the girl that we saw almost every night. most nights she was just drinking and hanging out. i never saw her leave with anyone. even last night when we were there around 4 am. we had to convince him to go with her but he finally did and we bid him farewell.
seaman and i entered la chorrera. there are many girls that ask you to pay for their way in. do not pay for them to get in. we always told them if they have their own money they could come in with us but the majority was looking to find some guy to pay their $5 entrance. i’m not entirely sure the girls couldn’t enter on their own. some places they couldn’t enter without a male escort but i don’t think this was one of them. if you want to be a nice guy and pay their cover that’s your prerogative but in essence you’re just paying their way to get in so they can hook up with someone else. if you want to score with her just negotiate and leave with her before you enter the club. you’ll save yourself the cover fee.
seaman and i walked around a bit. it was about 12:30 am and i was getting tired from a lack of sleep so i wanted to hook up. i decided to go with this cute girl. not a stunner model type but very cute and a good personality. she had a cute sister that i wanted seaman to hook up with but he was off chasing some other girl he said he saw on the malecon one day. i wished him good luck on his trip and we said goodbye. it was another great trip with seaman. this was our fifth international trip together in only one year. we had so many good laughs and good times this trip as usual.
i took a taxi particular home with my girl b. she was a nice girl. she made it a point to hold my hand on the way home in the taxi. nice touch. these girls can be very affectionate. i negotiated a $4 taxi ride home. the session was pretty good but her body wasn’t as good out of clothes as they were in them. still, i had a good session then sent her off. it was only about 2 am at this point so maybe she went back to the club. in the club before we left we negotiated $50 for a few hours plus i gave her $5 for a taxi. i’m sure she would have left for less but i didn’t feel like arguing over a few bucks. i asked for $40 and she wanted $60. she wasn’t a hottie quality to get $60 but i was getting tired and there were a lot of dudes so i’m sure she could have gotten it. i didn’t see too many great quality girls. as i posted before, it really was a struggle to find a hottie that was my type here.
day 15
i tried sleeping in but woke up at a reasonable time. seaman and tad were both gone. i had various calls from other dudes that wanted to hook up throughout the trip. hopefully these guys understand my desire to kind of do my own thing. i haven’t been motivated to meet a ton of new guys and i’m content traveling with the good friends i’ve already made.
i tried getting a taxi on calle 5 in miramar to no avail. believe it or not it isn’t too easy to get a taxi unless you are in front of a big hotel or in a touristy area. even when you call the panataxi # of 555-555 it is usually busy or not available. if you’re staying in miramar it is essential that you have a rental car. it was a beautiful day so i decided to walk as far as i could down to the melia cohibe hotel. i assumed i’d be able to flag down a taxi but there simply were none that didn’t already have people in it. it was a little hike but manageable. i wanted to see what stores were in the galleria mall next to the hotel. there was nothing there that any tourist would need.
i decided to walk around havana viejo some more. i wanted to take some more pictures in the plaza de san francisco which i really liked. it was the most uncluttered area that i noticed. there is a good outdoor café with good food. i had lunch there and walked around the area for a few hours. something that i noticed is that instead of a bag or backpack i carried around my camera and stuff in a plain plastic bag that the convenient stores give out when you buy something. i didn’t even have one tout approach me for anything. maybe it was a coincidence.
i took a panataxi from the ingleterra hotel all the way to calle 28 in miramar and it was $6.14 so don’t ever negotiate to pay more than this. always round up and give them the change.
shortly thereafter one of the girls i hooked up from la chorrera called me and i had her come over to my apartment. it was very convenient since she lived in miramar. had a mind blowing session that was better than the first time. we showered together then she left. i really like my apartment here in miramar but i miss having the car here. seaman took it to trinidad. i tried renting a rental car today but they are all still sold out. after my girl left i went and checked email at an internet café at the corner of 28th and 3rd in miramar. i had to wait a little bit since they only have one working computer. it didn’t work that well. i only was on 20 minutes when i got tied of waiting for pages to load. there was a girl waiting and i gave her the rest of my card which had 40 minutes left. she was very happy. the cost of 1 hour access card is $5. this is the minimum time you can buy.
i walked down to this ocean front bar that the fellas and i frequented near our casas. i had a few mojitos then decided to come home and made a few phone calls. i was trying to reach one of the girls and i accidentally called stu’s girl that he hooked up with a few times. be careful storing numbers in your phone. 90% of the girls we met had names starting with y. it was kind of comical. even girls with names like jessie were spelled yeissy. anyway, since she answered i thought i might as well see if she was available. seaman said he wouldn’t repeat with her again so i didn’t see it as a problem. she wasn’t exactly my type but she had a great personality and was really funny.
she came over in a little more than an hour and stayed for several hours. i was going to try to hook up with one of the guys from ch. i didn’t talk to him till about 11 pm when seaman’s girl left. anyway, he said he would be at cheverre. i took a taxi there. the scene didn’t look that good and i couldn’t find this dude plus his cellphone didn’t work so i waited about 15 minutes then went to johnny’s. johnny’s was absolutely dead. about 40 italian dudes and only 10 girls and the girls were all bad. i decided to walk to la chorrera. the place was packed with guys but again not too many girls. it wasn’t looking too good. i told myself i’d go to the bathroom then leave. as i was walking this stunner grabbed me. she was definitely my type. she looked out of place because most of the girls in the place that night were darker and heavier. she had a booming body. we flirted some and then i said let’s go for $40. she laughed. she said, “let’s go for $60” and then i laughed. as others pointed out before, the money issue isn’t a huge deal. it sets the tone for the session and let’s them know you know what you’re doing. we settled for $45 but she was clear to tell me that some of the stupid italians would pay up to $100 but she said they are a pain in the ass to deal with. i told her that i have been to cuba many times and she didn’t doubt it. in fact, i knew havana better than her. she has only been here two weeks. she is from camaguey. i definitely want to hit this town as it seems to produce a lot of the stunners.
she wasn’t a hard core type. i really do think she has only been here two weeks. she didn’t know where my apartment was in miramar and most of the pros know calle 28 or calle 30 well. no tattoos, no piercings, no gold teeth, no cellphone. she was very affectionate and we made out for a long time before getting into bed. the session was outstanding. i loved her body. i prefer girls on the thin side. afterwards we showered together and i gave her my last toothbrush. she let me take before and after pictures. she looked hot in and out of her clothes. she was 19.
it was damn hard getting through to a taxi. the panataxi number never works from being overloaded. when she finally did get through they said it would take an hour and a half. i just told her to flag one down on calle 5. i offered to go with her but told her the cops might stop us. she seemed a bit clueless about this. i just told her to pretend we were boyfriend/girlfriend and let me do the talking if they stopped us. we saw one cop and i did the most instinctive thing i could think of. we started making out like mad lovers and the cop walked past us. i finally flagged a taxi down for her on calle 5 (the main throughway through miramar). we kissed and i wished her a happy new year.
i was literally drained of energy. 3 long sessions in a relatively short amount of time. it was 3:30 am by the time i got back home from walking s. you know what? i had a big smile on my face the entire walk back home. it was a great trip and tonight was just a great ending to a great 16 day trip.
i’m in cancun now. my room isn’t ready so i’m typing this in the lobby of the hotel.
final thoughts
no trip report or no guide book could have prepared me for what cuba was going to be like. some of the trip reports are a little misleading. cuba isn’t this totally easy place with tons of hotties that are willing to sleep with you for next to nothing. sure there is action everywhere but the very attractive girls have figured out they are a commodity that is valuable. also, the hassles and the fear the police command with the girls make hobbying here more problematic. i never did pick up a “true street walker”. call me old fashioned but i like to at least get to know the girl a little first. i like inviting them to have a drink, dinner, lunch, etc. here the girls are nervous to even talk with you on the street. i’ll never be a sw type of guy. i’m so not shy and love talking to girls but picking girls off the street just wasn’t my thing.
there were many european guys here. (mostly italian). i found most of the italians to be very obnoxious. they usually traveled in flocks and were very loud in the clubs. even on the malecon i noticed they are the ones that honk their horns making a big scene trying to pick up girls. they weren’t discreet and it looked like some of the girls were uncomfortable with the ruckus they were making. i’m not sure if they overpay or not. most of the girls told me that they didn’t like them but there were just so many of them that come to cuba so that is their main supply of funds. also, it’s important to note that several of the girls told me the only time they got ripped off was from italian guys. i have nothing against italians though as they didn’t affect my ability to pick up a girl.
i didn’t notice too many americans here. the ones that i did notice seemed to be rookies that had no clue about the scene here. some of them looked like the nerdy type that thought cuba might be an easy place to pick up girls. let me be the first to say that there are so many other easier places to go in the world if you only want to sleep with a hot girl. i would seriously advise not to come to cuba if you are only coming for sex. i know i keep pointing this out throughout my report but it’s important to note. it’s actually hard to believe that a guy would pick cuba as a place to come for a first time in the hobby. granted, the close proximity to the usa is a huge draw but unless you can speak spanish it will be more difficult than so many other places.
one thing i was very surprised at is that there is virtually no people begging for money or giving you the line that they have no food. it seems like no one is starving here. for those that travel to latin or south america you’ll notice many people begging for money for food. the entire trip i maybe had one person begging for money. the whole idea of socialism in theory is good but it just doesn’t work. the cuban people as a whole seem to be a very happy and proud group of people. music defines their society. there is music everywhere. it is in the streets, restaurants, cafes, and the beach. for example, in playa del este on a 50 meter stretch there were maybe 3 separate groups all playing music.
it was kind of interesting to see that the men aren’t the only ones that come to cuba to hobby. i saw several middle aged and older women with young cuban guys. hopefully these ladies aren’t deluding themselves into thinking these men really care for them. i saw many older men with young girls. it was interesting when i brought up this topic of conversation with several of the girls. many told me that they had many chances to marry middle aged or older italian or american men and they would rather live in cuba then be in a relationship where they had no attraction or love for the other person. almost all of the girls i saw had no interest in dating cuban guys. they are looking for an opportunity at a better life. all of them loved their country but what future does a girl have when the most she can make even in a professional job is $30 us a month.
i’m sure finding love in cuba is very possible but in the end you have to stay realistic. one day tad and i were having coffee at the café next to the ingleterra. an older guy that spoke almost no spanish was sitting with a girl. the girl didn’t speak english. i didn’t find her attractive but she seemed nice. she was holding hands with the guy and they were sitting with a tour guide. she told me that the guy was her fiancée and that she was going to be married in a few months. i guess the guy was supporting her. i’m not sure if he knew it or not but we saw the girl working and spending time with senior citizens almost every day the rest of our trip. i guess love is blind huh? remember that these girls are like monkeys swinging from tree limb to tree limb. they are content swinging on the branch but they won't swing over to the next tree until there is a steady branch to support them. we as men are the branches. once they get bored they swing to the other branch. i've literally met hundreds and hundreds of girls traveling around. many wanted to date. i only met one girl out of hundreds that i found was completely honest.
on the topic of cops. they are harmless. keep in mind it's their job and a good job at that. they make more than doctors. a cop isn't going to risk anything to do something stupid and lose their job. there are police everywhere and people are scared of them but to tourists i viewed them just like the mosquitos that i kept getting bitten by. more of a nuisance that you couldn't really avoid and not really going to hurt you.
most of these police are useless like many of the other "state" employees. kind of like the useless rental car agents that were useless. we went to the rental car place to renew our contract and there were 5 guys there that couldn't do anything. they literally told us to come back at 2 pm when the one guy that could make decisions came in. they were just trying to stay/look busy. they were watching the cable tv which was connected to the hotel and one guy was even sleeping in the back office in the middle of the day. the police are just on the streets trying to stay busy. i imagine they are one of the highest paid employees with the occassional shakedown of tourists.
be careful in the clubs. la chorrera gets packed and you are literally brushing against people to walk to the bathroom and in the other room. one of the last nights i had two piles of money in my jeans. one side had bigger bills like $10's and $20's. the other had a ton of $1 bills. i noticed when i got back home that night my $1's were gone. i thought maybe i was careless and it fell out but i'm usually careful. i now found out from seaman that that night he "lost" his wallet. i think someone stole it from his pocket. it's hard to imagine but you're brushing up against people and it wouldn't be too difficult for a skilled thief. just be careful at all times like you would anywhere else you would travel to.
i will miss cuba and everything i experienced. i could have done cuba alone but it was so much fun with seaman and tad. i made another great friend in tad and i’m sure i’ll see him somewhere in the world on another adventure.
life is good.
Saint What a great Cuba report. It will really help me next week on my first trip. From Cancun airport to Havana. How are you finding the girls in Cancun?
Great Report Saint,
Although I have never been or probably never will visit Cuba, but I did enjoy the report and read every word of it. Almost felt like being there. Good writing and good info on mongering as well as the place.
El Cubanito
01-06-04, 17:39
Saint,
That is an excellent report.
El Cubanito
Hi Saint,
Excellent report! Best I have ever read!
Although, I have not been to Havana for a couple of years you brought back some very fond memories. You are very correct, "it is the people". I hope to get back to Havana in the next 6 months or so. I have been spending all my time and energy in putting together something in Gambia. There again, also it is "the people". I really love the place. If you haven't experienced Africa yet Gambia is the place to try.
It is a shame that you did not review ALL the post about Havana. Back on 9-25-02 I posted about some great paladars. Like I said earlier I have not been there for a couple of years, the good paladars will still be there. The bad ones will go away. These should all still be there. I have been to Havana maybe 100 times, but usually only for one night at a time because of my job. You are correct, for the first three years of going there I found the food in the government establishments to be really bad. It took me some time to find the good paladars.
Once again, excellent report.
Peterman
Saint the best report on Cuba ever posted on WSG. Just one thing, I guess you must have loved the adventure of exploring Cuba in a rental car. I found it easier for to haggle for a flat rate from a taxis driver. I paid about $30 per day including gas as long as I stayed in Havana. That way I got a guide as well.
China Monger
01-07-04, 13:48
Surfer
I've been going to Cuba for the past several yrs. I've never had a bad trip. I've made many terrific friends; in general I've found the ppl to be kind and generous.
The poverty is a bit overwhelming at first look. However, as I began to meet more ppl I soon realized that most ppl supplement their income on a secondary market. Whether it’s the cop looking for a bribe to let you off the ticket, the Taxi driver pocketing the cash cab fare, Prostitution, even medical care goes more smoothly if you grease the Doctor for the operation, the nurse for better attention and so on. But for sure these bribes are expected of tourists and Cubans alike. It’s the secondary or black market if you will, and it’s the only way most ppl make ends meet. In fact many ppl are so proficient in the secondary market that they manage not only the necessities but a few luxuries too, like cell phones and such, I even know a couple very industrious individuals who drive Mercedes. Now a Cuban is very limited on what the government allows them to own. In general they are not even allowed to own a cell phone or car, but the meet foreigners who will allow the Cuban to use their name for registration. Very creative.
As for the “Sporting Life”, To some extent it will depend on which city and when you happen to visit. The government periodically will crackdown on prostitution in a particular area. They’ve made such a crackdown in Veradero lately. They’ve been as successful there as anywhere. Since Veradero is one of Cuba’s crown tourist destinations they want to “clean it up”. Even in Veradero however Capitalism prevails, and if your diligent you can find purveyors of nocturnal entertainment. Nonetheless, if your primary objective is the “hobby’ you’d have better results in another City, If you show up in Cuba and find that the pressure is on in your location, just ask around and you will find another City that is wide open. It’s an easy matter to relocate for the betterment of you vacation.
That having been said, Habana (Havana) is generally a safe bet. Its all there, ST, LT or GFE and just about anything else to satisfy you personal proclivity. You’ll find an abundance of SW and Disco/Bar, pro, simi and amateur action. Cuban women are arguably among the most beautiful in the world. However, over the past year or so it seems to me that the quality of the average pro/semi has declined substantially – IMHO. Don’t get me wrong; the true beauties are still available. It’s just that it has been taking longer to find them. They’re almost becoming needles in a haystack. While in times past it may have taken a matter of minutes to find my dream GF, recently it’s been taking a matter of hours. On the bright side, even though it has taken some time, I haven’t ended up empty handed yet.
I don’t think ill get too deep into the pricing because it’s accurately available in prior posts. Here’s just a basic guideline.
ST - US$50.00-US$100.00 (pro/semi)
LT – US$100.00 and up (pro/semi 24 hrs)
GFE = Dinner and up
This is just a general guideline. As usual your cost will depend on negotiation and (never to be under estimated) your chemistry with your date.
IMHO the GFE is Cuba’s real attraction for the monger. In my experience my GF du jour “almost” never asks for $. But we generally spend a few days together. Maybe travel to another City for the weekend, of course dinning, drinking and dancing. The same stuff you’d probably do with any other GF.
In the final analysis, I really love Cuba and Cubans. I will be returning there for the rest of my life. Great food, drink, cigars and of course the women. I do believe that Cuba is getting more commercialized and will continue to do so. The prices are going up, fast. And the beautiful women are either getting out of the business or getting snapped up by foreigners IMHO. As Cuba continues to change, one day it will be known as a family tourist destination. Which is fine and I will visit then too for the drink and cigars.
That being the case I’m looking for some new monger grounds. I’ve found lots of great posts on WSG. So I’ll be checking out Colombia, Peru and Brazil among others this year. I hope to hook up with some fellow “Sportsmen” share some tales and cocktails.
If you need details like casa particular, driver or guide, pm me for the local tel numbers.
CM
** The daily diary is finished. I edited it to include all days now. Previously Days 8-11 were not completed. It's done now.***
I agree with China Monger about the ability of Cubans to find other ways to supplement their monthly salary from the government. I find it very hard to believe the average salary in Havana is only what the government gives them. Maybe it's that low in the small towns I went to but certainly not in Havana. It seemed like almost everyone in Havana had some side gig to make money. Also, remittances from family members living in the USA must be astronomical. I often wondered just how many millions of dollars a year flow into Cuba this way. It seemed like everyone had family living in the USA.
It's ironic but I didn't find the Cubans to be that "poor". They were one of the happiest groups of people I saw. Sometimes no matter how much money you have it doesn't equal happiness. The Cubans prove that. They just want to improve their lives and are waiting for Castro to die.
I do disagree with China Monger when he said that "Cuban girls are amongst the most beautiful in the world". Maybe a very small handful but in the overall population mix the super hot ones simply aren't there. I found much hotter girls in Buenos Aires and Brazil. We all have different tastes but I think it's fair to say overall there are much hotter girls in other places.
Another thing I noticed is the girls seem to be younger in Cuba than other places I've been to. Most of the girls you'll meet are between 17 and 20. It seemed like most of the hottie girls 21-27 either moved to another country or got married to some tourist and got out of Cuba. Still, I don't know where some of those young girls learned their moves in bed. Some of them were great. I guess it's like their ability to shake their bodies while dancing.
On the matter of rental cars. I would much rather prefer to have my own rental car. True, it's more expensive than hiring a guide with a car but remember that guide can't be with you 24/7. If you speak little to no Spanish definitely get a guide. If not, then just do it on your own. I loved the ability to do whatever I wanted and go wherever I wanted anytime I wanted. Good luck.
Saint
Organicgrowth
01-07-04, 17:52
saint,
i love your 'samuel peeps' style diary. excellent read.
i agree with all your points, including the age range and your conclusions about the hotter chicas being matrimonially bagged by rich tourists. beauty is in the eyes of the beholder at the end of the day, but i agree that ba has an exceptional supply of very beautiful chicas. however, i must confess that in terms of bedroom experiences: for me havana has yet to be beaten. these chicas are very well trained indeed, don’t as me how!
i still maintain my original views on the car-rental front: the abundance of taxis: both legal and particular is such that it makes the whole ‘rental-deal’ just not worth it… but again, its an individual thing.
sorry to have had to ask you to ‘fib’, that chica was and will remain a prize worth telling a ‘little white lie’ for… i’m planning another trip in a couple of months just to see her. omg, something is happening to the hunter / sportsman in me…. have i found “the one?”!!
regards, havanaman
Havanaman,
No problems on the fibbing. I'm sorry if I slipped a little but I couldn't remember what I could/could not say. Good luck with whatever it is you are looking for. The key thing is being happy and if you are honestly happy then all the power to you. Just remember though that any relationship starting with lies probably will not survive long term. JMHO. Good luck though.
I honestly think the hottest Cuban girls don't live in Cuba anymore. Hot girls will find a way to either marry some Italian, Canadian or American dude or find a way to get out of Cuba on their own. Still plenty of gorgeous girls. Through all my adventures though it's hard to beat a Brasilera in bed. Those girls LOVE sex as much as any girl on the planet. The hobby scene in Cuba can't compare to Buenos Aires or Rio. It's like comparing night and day. Two totally different types of places. Just for the hobby itself I wouldn't consider Cuba to be comparable to places like Rio.
Regarding rental cars, it probably doesn't make much sense to the average guy only going for a few days. If you're staying in Havana Viejo or Vedado you probably don't need one but don't let people's comments about "an abundance of taxi's" fool you. Besides outside of major hotels Havana does not have an over abundance of taxi's. Even in Vedado I'd have a tough time sometimes getting a taxi. Good luck calling Panataxi on 555-555. The number was almost always busy. Other taxi numbers were busy too. If you're staying in Miramar which I'd highly recommend you simply must have a rental car to make things easy.
I ran into a lot of "budget" travelers that thought they could get by in Cuba for really cheap. You can get by cheaply here. No problems but if you blow it out and see a few girls a day, pay entrance fees of $10 - $15 per place, eat well once in a while at nice places, rent a car with full insurance and unlimited mileage you can still drop some money here.
Saint, China...excellent reads!
I've stumbled across this website several months ago and I love reading about everybodys experiences. I have been to Cuba many times in the last 7 years. I'm totally in love with this place. Last years visitation was one of my best, reason being is that we travelled to the south of the Island (Cienfuegos, Pinar Del Rio). We stayed at beautiful Casas (homes) and we had a personal chef that cooked us the best meals I or my budiies ever had. Salad, rice, potatoes, fish, lobster and home made ice cream, all for $10.00. I've had many, many home cooked meals (lobster) in Cuba and this chef was the best. Several years ago I went out with a girl down there for 1 year. I'm 36 yrs she was 26 yrs, total model material, but after some time I decided to let things go. But seeing and staying in her small town, was the life. I rented a house on the ocean for $15.00 a night My next door neighbour was this guy from Panama. He bought a 2 story home for $5,000. He married a Cuban girl and this allowed him to purchase this house. He is actually also married in Panama and spends 3 months a year in Cuba. Last year we had a whole bunch of us went down cause my buddy was marrying a girl down there, God what a party. One of the girls I met, begged me to put it in her ass! She wanted it in her ass more then her puss. We would at it then after about 2 minutes she would stop and place it in..God what a fantasy manifesting itself.
Anyways, we had no problems with anything. Everybody knows a private house where you can go, this last trip was the worst or best for the women. Worst in a cynical way of saying that they were everwhere and all over us. Since my friends and I have been down there so many times we make sure to treat these wonderfull people with respect and dignity. You show a Cuban girl a little class and be prepared. It's a total "mans" world down there. Every one of my Cuban male friends married or single have 2-3 girls. That's just the way it is and everbody knows it.
My friend who got married last year, after we all went back home he stayed on for another 2 more weeks. The girls 2 uncles took him out for a ride and brought him to an apartment with this nurse waiting for him. He said "what are you guys doing, are you nuts I just married your niece?" This is part of Cubas culture. The Cuban women hate it but there is nothing they can do about it, unless abstinence comes into play.
The culture is fantastic and I never seen people with so little yet so easy to smile. I'm from Canada so visiting this island is hassle free. At this moment, all inclusive for $370 cdn (plus tax) Check out www.sunholidaysca.com and www.itravel2000.com. All those Dominican Republic guys on the other board would go crazy to see the prices for all inclusive to go down there. Starts at around $400 cdn. Last year we rented a car for the week and stayed at the Casas $20 / night including a fresh breakfest. Were fortunate that we have made so many friends that everthing is taken care of regarding places to stay, eat, and the women, well thats never a problem.
We went to this great out doors club in a park in Cienfuegos. The entrance fee was $2.50 ea to get in and when you walked in you receive a bottle of rum and 4 cokes for each person! This is something that you will not find in Havana. As much as I love Havana, especially the "old" part the smaller towns are just to great. This club in the park (sorry, I forgot the name) had so many women and we were basically one of the few tourists there that night, (plenty of locals), that we all felt like one of the Beatles.
Another small town called Cardenas is where you'll get smothered with girls. After reading Saints posts, I know that if he experienced my trips that most of his impressions would be totally different. My opinion is to stay away fron the tourists spots, or use them (hotels) as a destination, rent a car and go exploring. Cuba is totally safe! It's one of the few places that no matter where you, find a small town, in a couple of hours you'll have a great group of friends...for life.
Jaimito Cartero
01-07-04, 21:04
Saint - That's one of the best reports I've ever seen. Some pictures would have rounded out the report, and made it perfect.
The best thing about the report is the full aspect of Cuba. Not just "find the chicas and bang them", but the downfalls to going to a repressive country, dealing with the cops and the pitfalls of dining too.
It seemed you treated Frank a bit too kindly. If I had hauled that much stuff, a genuine thank you would have been nice.
Cuba doesn't seem to be an economy destination. Given your report, I might try it for a week sometime, but I think for longer trips I'd stay in the more economical Thailand or Argentina.
Jaimito,
Thanks for the compliment. I did post some photos in the photo section. I'm sure the vast majority of guys aren't interested in seeing non-chica photos but Jackson can delete them if he sees fit. I won't be offended.
I like posting vivid details on places I go. I must be getting older because I haven't really felt like seeing 3-4 girls a day like I used to. I have been enjoying getting out and seeing the places I'm visiting and doing more touristy things.
Yes, I avoided Frank after that first bad experience. I don't like people like that. Plus we found him annoying and everytime we asked him to help us with something he seemed like he was going out of his way to do it. On the positive side he did speak English pretty good. For all I know he is a good guy but I didn't want to spend too much time with him after that bad experience. I'm sure he can be very helpful with helping get girls. I just prefer to do things on my own sometimes. To me, having a guide find all your girls takes away from the experience. I still laugh at the guys in Rio that basically have their hands held while a guide takes them from terma to terma. To each his own.
Cuba is actually a cheap destination. Much cheaper than other spots for things like housing, food and some other things but things like taxi's were higher at $5 or $6 for some destinations. Girls prices are about equal to some popular destinations for hot hot girls. You can get streetwalkers for much less I'm sure. I wouldn't know. The costs of renting a car can add up.
The funny thing is because you're forced to bring so much cash you are constantly worried you'll run out. I found myself counting my cash every couple of days even though I brought more than enough money. Bring double of what you budget just in case.
I still have yet to find a place as easy and wonderful as Buenos Aires, Argentina. BA has it all. Great apartments/hotels, great restaurants, great clubs, great architecture, good shopping, great nightlife and the costs of taxi's is very very cheap and plentiful. If you're going somewhere just for sex it's hard to beat Buenos Aires. Good luck.
Jaimito Cartero
01-08-04, 06:31
Saint - I actually like the locale pictures. When I go to a place, I of course go to relax and meet chicas. However, it's the whole atmosphere, people and food that make a place really unique. I can find streetwalkers in my city for $20-$30. I'd say $700 on airfare, and 20 hours in an airplane if all I wanted was a quick release.
I understand your reasons for editing your chica pictures, but it *does* drive me crazy. Those Stephen King lookin' zombie pictures. I keep looking for Cujo in the background.
EarlBrowder
01-08-04, 13:42
Saint,
Really enjoyed the trip report. Thanks for the detail and the experience. Also, enjoyed the non-chica pics (as well of course as the chica pics), especially the view from your Vedado balcony, which brought back the experience of waking on a balmy Havana morning and drinking coffee on a different Vedado balcony.
The disco you seemed to like, La Chorrera, is it adjacent to Club 1830? on the Malecon shortly before the tunnel to Miramar? Because I was staying nearby, I once scoped out Club 1830 on a slow night but didn't make it to La Chorrera. What's the crowd there like? Young? Mixed? Tourists? Cubans?
Earl
CaptainNemo
01-08-04, 17:09
Cuba is relatively expensive place to visit, especially in Havana. Girls are not cheap at all. Considering Cuban economics, a fair price should be $30. Outside Havana, girls are much cheap. At La Isla de la Juventud, girls are $15-$30.
No access to cash is a pain in the ass. One has to budget how much to spend. In other countries, I just use ATM or credit cards when running out money. In Cuba, I have to worry if I run out of money soon.
Bringing $6000 cash to Mexico could be trouble at U.S. airports. I used to go to Mexico for business a lot. At U.S. airports, there were U.S. custom agents with dogs checking people boarding for Mexico. Apparently, Mexico drug cartels use carriers to bring cash back to Mexico. If one brings a lot of small bills, such as me, dogs could be confused. Dogs do not know the difference between $100 bill and $1 bill. Even though bringing a few thousands dollars is not illegal, Custom agents may wonder why normal person brings so much cash to Mexico. So, balancing out how many bills to carry will save the explanation to U.S. Custom. A wrong explanation to a U.S. government agent in a court of law could be a big trouble. If you can avoid it, avoid it.
A big part of fun to visit Cuba is these hassles. A very interesting place to visit.
OttoGraham
01-08-04, 17:36
Originally posted by CaptainNemo
Even though bringing a few thousands dollars is not illegal, Custom agents may wonder why normal person brings so much cash to Mexico. So, balancing out how many bills to carry will save the explanation to U.S. Custom.
While you shouldn't volunteer information if not asked, honesty is the best policy when answering questions about why you're toting a bankroll. Tell them you're taking the cash down Mexico way to pay for two weeks of tequila, mujeres, i fiestas! Partying isn't a crime, in fact, if you laugh about it, the customs guy is going to laugh with you and not give you a hard time. (A vacation filled with wine, women, and song is what all men dream of!) Now, if it is a customs girl......... ;)
-Uncle Otto
P.S. - I wondered if I needed to say this, but I guess I should: [lecture mode on] If you bring big money with you on a trip abroad (more than $10K), DECLARE IT on that stupid form. There is no penalty to carry this much cash out of the country. And if you only do it once or twice a year, there will surely be no tax/IRS consequences. But if you don't declare it and get stopped, there certainly will be a problem! And finally, NEVER, EVER bring dope through customs, not even a joint or two. [/lecture mode off]
Earl,
Yes, La Chorrera is next to Club 1830. We ate at the restaurant 1830 one of our last nights. The food there was good and they had decent wine too. We went in back after dinner to Los Jardines and it sucked. I found the girls to be ugly. La Chorrera had a diverse mix of girls from black girls to lighter skinned girls. Some were dog ugly and some were beautiful. There was something for everyone there. It got VERY crowded in the main level. It is FULL of Italian dudes. I'd say the majority of guys in Havana that I saw were Italian. I could tell right away from hearing them speak Italian. I really didn't see too many Americans. The Americans are easy to spot as they usually are the ones that don't know how to dress.
__________________________________
VERY few people will have a need to carry over $10,000 with them anywhere in the world with the ease of ATM's. That was the only thing that was a little unsettling is leaving all that money locked up in the casa when you left for the day/night but the casas are very secure.
Make sure if you go to Cuba you bring plenty of smaller bills. $10,000 in $100 bills doesn't take up much space but thousands of dollars in $1's, $5's, $10's and $20's takes up some room. Bring a lot of $1 bills as you will use them often, especially if you rent a car. Everywhere you park you have to pay $1 for them to watch your car. Some days we paid up to $7 or $8 a day because we went to so many different places. It's good to have smaller bills like $5's and $10's because of course girls never have change. Either do taxi drivers. You'll never need to walk around with more than $200 at a time anyway. Just carry some $20's, $10's, $5's and $1's.
I heard that $2 bills were a novelty and I brought about 100 of them. I guess they are a good luck charm or something like that. People always smiled when I gave them one. Even in the Floridita the guy gave a big smile and gave me a thumbs up.
Anyone that does drugs in a foreign country is a fool. Many countries don't mess around if they find drugs on you. Even if it's a small amount. My entire time in Cuba only one jinetero asked us if we wanted to buy some "Charlie" (cocaine). I looked at him like he was crazy and told him I NEVER do drugs and he got this scared look and walked away really quickly. There is no US Embassey in Cuba so if you get arrested for drug possession you're screwed and you probably deserve it for being so stupid. (Hell, even on my Zurich flight less than 2 months ago there were agents and drug sniffing dogs upon landing here in the USA). I have no sympathy for those that do drugs and get caught.
There are police everywhere. If you are driving around for any significant amount of time you WILL get pulled over. I talked to Seaman on the phone today. He was in Cuba 3 days longer than I was and he told me he got pulled over 3 more times while he was there. I'm proud of him. He never payed anything all 3 times. As I posted before, do NOT pay a cop if you aren't doing anything wrong.
The cops actually could be very friendly and helpful when you asked them for things. They were some of the few people that gave accurate directions. Even when you wanted to make an illegal U-turn if you asked them they would say go ahead and do it. Heck, Seaman picked up a cop hitchhiking that had to work at the airport. Seaman told him the only thing he didn't like was the corrupt cops and how they hassled us and the cop chuckled and said it's a way of life there. He kind of said that the cops are only looking to make some additional money. If you refuse there is nothing really they will do.
Bring lots of snacks as it's hard to find good snacks in the stores there. I brought a whole carry on bag full of granola bars, fruit roll ups, pop tarts, gum, candy, chocolates, cheese in a can and crackers. Also bring high protein food like beef jerky. The girls loved the snacks and candy and always asked to have some.
I also always travel with a ton of extra toothbrushes. Upon arriving at my casa I always give them one and tell them they can brush their teeth, shower and freshen up. It's kind of a polite way of telling them I want them to brush their teeth and showering. Every girl in Cuba took her toothbrush with her when she left. I also gave TAD some of them. He looked at all the stuff I brought and was amazed.
Also bring plenty of candles and I like to bring some light smelling incense too. Target sells these little packs of incense and holders that come in a little case. Bring an Ipod or CD walkman and bring some external speakers. It is much better than having no music in the room. EVERY single destination you go to will have tons of CD's you can buy. Cuba was no exception. Music is their life there. If you have room you can also bring a laptop with DVD player.
Bring a good camera with tons of film. I've found you don't need an expensive camera. On every trip I always bring a Canon Elf APS camera. It is very small and compact and the results have always been steller as you can see from my pics. I just bought a new digital camera. I got the Olympus C50 5 meg camera as it got great reviews on www.eopinions.com and was dubbed the world's smallest 5 meg camera. Quality is very good. Only disappointing thing is you have to close the shutter everytime you want to view the picture you just took. I found in Cuba every single girl wanted to stop and look at each picture you took rather than waiting for you to take 5 or 6.
I'm looking forward to returning to Cuba and driving from Santiago to Havana and spending more time in the smaller towns. I found the people friendlier, the scenery more beautiful and you got a better taste of Cuba.
Saint
And speaking of pictures/cameras, I took my Captiva which is 2.1mp but it also gives me the option of printing out a shot (Polaroid) on the spot. I swear, the chicas and every other Cuban love these. You can get outdated film on eBay and I have had no problems w/it. Runs about $0.65 per print but the positive response from everyone is great. Plus of course, you can give them the picture and keep the digital.
Just passing my experience on.
Spock.
Read em and weep guys. Sometimes it is good to be living up north. And now seriously - Toronto to Varadero one week all-inclusive in Mar del Sur Hotel $312.00 plus tax Canadian funds Deal is with Hola Sun Holidays!
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Saint,
Great non-chica photos. Really got the feel of Cuba. I'm leaving in 4 more weeks and counting.
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Found this on another site. Info for some of you U.S. travellers. This is not my trip.
"Anyway... On my way out of Havana, I met a man from the US who runs tours to Cuba from the US. His site is www.cubatravelexperts.com. He was on the aerocaribe flight in front of me (surrounded by 5-6 American men on their way back from unlicensed trips) and was explaining how he could get travel licenses for travel. He seemed to indicate you didn't have to do a group trip but I have no idea. His website looks like he offers tours. He seems connected and legit about the license part. He claimed to have spent 6 mos in jail in 1996 (???) for his cuba travel work. Not sure about that. Oddly enough, after spending a few days in Mexico, he was again on the same plane with me back to the states AND on the same shuttle bus to the remote parking where we both parked. Spookly? A "sign"? Just kidding.
What I found most interesting was his comment that staring Jan 15 of this year, Mexican airlines will be sharing passenger manifests with the US. Has anyone heard this and this date? I am hoping to not go back unlicensed again but I found this interesting"
Guys--
There is no reason to have all that cash in Cuba. It is true that you can't use an ATM or credit card, but what you can do is sign up for the Amigo Travel Card. Essentially, it is a debit card based in Canada. You load it up with however much you want, and it acts as an ATM card for you in Cuba. You can take it to the bank and get cash. Whatever you don't use, they mail back to you.
This was all on the up and up, as this is precisely what I did on my trip over the summer. Here's an address--
http://www.amigotravelcard.com/
Organicgrowth
01-10-04, 10:19
Gentlemen,
I like the idea of the Tran$Card suggested by umgman. In principal it would seem to be an ideal solution. He’s tested it and so another door opens. A few of considerations:
1. Will this card leave a trail? This may be something to think about in these days of “excessive restriction”… (Please note: USA mongers CAN travel to Cuba… they just CAN’T spend the greenback).
2. Taking-out a non-USA credit card is another useful option, but again a trail is left, and ‘home-address’ restrictions may be a problem.
3. I always take cash, budgeting around $200 per day. I ALWAYS have change.
4. If the “sh1t hits the fan” and you get robbed / mugged (VERY RARE, but can happen), or otherwise end-up having lost your cash you can use the simple money withdrawal (cash) method I have discussed in the past. Simply take a NON-USA credit card to the Hotel Nacional along with your original passport and draw cash. If you do not have a NON-USA credit card: well, life just became very hard indeed… “Mister, you wanna buy cigars?… chica?…!”. For this instance, keep a couple of large bills hidden…
5. When I first started to go to Cuba I drew cash every second day as I was worried… As with any travel, even in my home country, I keep a few large bills hidden for security. Having found that Cuba is a relatively safe country, I now always take cash.
6. You can take large bills and get them changed in any respectable hotel / restaurant: with the exception for $1 bills, I do this.
I agree with Tio Otto, there is nothing wrong in declaring your cash if questioned. A couple of my USA friends have done this and had no issues at all. In fact I like the idea of being up-front and making a joke of the whole money idea with any Joe-authority officer: not only will they respect you, but your passage through will be that much more enjoyable.
The amount of cash Saint took for his first trip (one of many I hope, Saint!) was sensible. Cuba is NOT a cheap country. Please be advised. Yes there was a time when you could get a “BJ and burger to go for under $10”, but those years have long gone in the bigger cities.
The “market” has been somewhat inflated by many factors, including my European brothers (…and I’m sorry for this, but they just do not negotiate… DON’T FLAME ME… I’m European too!). Remember the “Prime directive”? (Help Spoke / Talosian!) lets not change the mongering-rates by agreeing to pay ‘way-over the top’ prices…
Just my CU-peso’s worth!
Live long (…and prosper!),
Regards, Havanaman
Havanaman & all:
I think the money-belt idea is excellent if for no more than peace of mind. You're not going to lose your belt or have it stolen and it can easily carry $2,000 in $100 bills. Got 2 on eBay for $20 plus they look good are are well put together.
I must confess to having slipped one time into a "parallel universe" when in Cuba. I met this "SW" who I gave a 8.75 in looks (my opinion), white, 21, 5'4, 90#s, long blond hair. So we talked (she spoke English well) and forgetting I was in Cuba, I made her an "offer" sans negotiation of $80. Accepted of course. I now know she would have been happy as anything for $40 or even less as it was late. Sorry.
When I return in February, I'll let everyone know about the debit card situation as I'm going that route.
Enjoy.
Spock (Live Long and Profit. Ferengi motto).
Transcard is fine. My friend got one before he arrived to Cuba. He could use it in the nicer state run cigar store in Miramar no problems. Supposedly several bigger places like hotels will take them. One bigger restaurant that was supposed to take it didn't want to. The only thing I would use it for is emergencies. It is good peace of mind to have a few thousand dollars in it in case you lose your money. Of course, keep it at home in your suitcase. One of the last night he lost his wallet and it had the transcard in it.
Trip Report:
Well, I got back last week to a crashed computer so forgive my lateness in this report.
Havanaman, Saint, sorry we missed. Maybe next time. Spock, I'm sorry but I got your PM request too late. Please forgive me.
In short, I still love Cuba: The people, first and foremost, then the music, the dancing. I'm considering spending a month there later this year to study Spanish at the University. A good way to have fun, learn a lot and lose weight too (The food still sucks!).
Being a Cuba-savvy vet I was able to avoid all the scams and many of the hassles already discussed on this board. As soon as people realized I wasn't a newbie tourist they got real or left me alone. Having learned some Cuban slang went a long way for me there.
After one night I had a falling out with my novia and was on my own for a week, until we got back together for the last couple of days. It didn't matter, I still had a great time. Saw Pupi, Van Van and many other great groups and musicians, and met some great new and old friends.
Having said the food still sucks there is good food to be found, and cheap too, usually at the paladars as opposed to the state-run restaurants. Some of my favorites: El Alhibe, Los Amigos, Gringo Viejo, Las Mercedes, Ristorante Hanoi, to name a few. I had some black market lobster at friends homes, and boy do those Cubans know how to make a lobster!
I spent a couple of days in Matanzas, took the Viazul for seven bucks. It's a beautiful port town about two hours out of Havana. I went to see my "Babalao," as I was inducted into the Afro-Cuban religion a couple of years ago (known mistakenly here as Santeria). My best times, however, were in Havana and there was plenty to keep me busy.
Girls: The trend of heavy-handed police intimidation is increasing, although they still don't bother tourists, at least not me. The girls told me that they are indiscriminately putting them in rehabilitation camps for two years if they are caught more than once cavorting with foreigners. Paranoia, understandably, runs rampant. No more hand-holding in the street and we had to take cabs everywhere, even very short distances. I found the best and cheapest action on the streets, although as I've said on this board before it ain't nothing like it used to be. The best spots for picking up chicas are:
1) The Malecon
2) The Prado, a tree lined boulevard in Centro Habana
3) The area behind and west of the Hotel Nacional at night, where all the rappers hang out.
La Rampa is dead, unless you're gay or into trannies. Somehow they seem to go about with impunity, unlike the girls. Maybe they wouldn't know what jail to put them in!
The club scenes remain major ripoffs. I got tired of hunting, though and went to Club 1830 one night. I picked up a gorgeous mulatta from Camaguay and we spent an hour for $60, plus $20 for the casa (she wouldn't come to my place). Yeah, I know, too much, but I'd had it at that point and just wanted to get laid. We did it upstairs in a house while the owner, a new mother, waited downstairs with her infant. Not exactly romantic or comfortable.
Another night I picked up a blond on the street and had a great time, multiples, for $35. As I and Saint have pointed out, however, Cuba is not a good place for mongering these days. If you go, go for other reasons and let the sex be incidental. For sex Rio is infinitely better, as is Buenos Aires, Costa Rica and Dominica.
Having seen much of Cuba over time the decay, both political, economic and physical, is apparent and getting worse. Now that
I am seen as trustworthy by many Cubans they were free to tell me how angry and depressed they are. The New Year's wish I heard most frequently (however whispered) was that they hope this year Fidel will kick the bucket. It pains me to see these great people suffer because of him, but forgive my digression.
I also find that the more I go to Cuba, the less I understand, and strangely that is part of the attraction. It is a place that infects the soul and never lets go, and I suppose I will be attached to it forever.
Sorry for the paucity of sexual news here guys, but that's the way it is.
Cheers.
Havana,
I will be in Havana between the 22 -29 of January. I anyone will be there at this time and is interested to meet/talk, pls send me a private msg.
Cigars-question:
I live in Europe. Will be in Cuba and afterwards in the Dominican Republic. My way back home is via the USA , just a few hours transit in Miami. What if I buy cigars in Cuba and enter the USA. Any problem with customs ? Is that a big problem? I can always say and demonstrate by showing my tickets that I bought then in DR and not in Cuba.
Pls advice
MrX
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Hey all,
I just got back Friday night. I had a great time. Ended up blowing off the girlfriend (or did she blow me off) still trying to figure it out. Her mother is telling me she is just immature and give her time. She thought I was mongering (ok so I was), but it worked out well.
This was my 3rd trip to Habana. It was much easier. Flew into Nassau and just bought a ticket for Habana. Did not have a reservation, no problemo. The guy said should never need reservations on Mondays.
Got into habana, cab no problemo to Nuevo Vedado. 18 bucks. The casa was nice and woman was very nice to me. I met hot rubia near 23 and L. Oh note for all: 23 ave is what is called la Rampa. If you follow it down hill you hit the Malecon. The Malecon is long but it seems this is the area to go. From here to where the statue of the guy on a horse is (make a right) (thanks Havanaman) I met quite a few chicks here. Only did the blond. She said she was a dancer with the ballet company. Not sure if true, but she was fantastic in bed. All kinds of moves and great BBBJ. (I got BBBJ everywhere)
Then I had two strange and wonderfull experiances. I walked the streets behind the statue, back and forth, just checking the women out. Saw one, waved, said hello. Told her she was hot and that I would love to do her. She said ok! Took me to a friends apartment (paid 10 bucks to owner of apartment) and did her. She was GFE, and she got into it. Nice and tight, I loved it.
The same day, was walking same area, saw hot chick in doorway. Said hello and waved. She smiled, but her mother saw me and waved me in. She asked me about myself and if I liked her daughter. I said yes. She was saying that if I wanted to go upstairs with her daugter, it was ok with her! I was not sure I understood correctly (my spanish is not the greatest) then the mother went upstairs and then came down and said its ok now. I went upstairs with the girl, still not sure what was going on. And yes, we had great sex, with the family downstairs. I gave her 20, she was very happy. The mother asked if I liked her daughter and would return. I said I did and I would.
I met a third girl the same way. Almost no police in this area. It was strange. One guy I met (Cuban) told me it was safe, just remove all my gold. I wonder if others have done this? There were many who wanted me, but I was looking for hot and flaca. The oportunities were the best.
I will try to get a place near the Central area next time. My return was great, no problems. Used my birth certificate, so no stamps showing I came and went the same day. Used passport for Cuba only. Funny thing was they all thought I was Mexican. Most places I go I fit in and no one can tell I am not a native, as long as I do not speak too much. Here they all knew. My mother is of mexican decent.
Anyway this week is Ecuador again, and next will be Peru again. I have interviews set up for the novia situation. Peace out all. I will try Habana in a month again.
Thanks for all the information.
Chaz (NYC)
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mrx,
the helms-burton stuff doesn´t apply to non USA residents, only if you plan to sell them in the states should you have problems to my knowledge, given you don´t exceed any customs threshold. If your imports are like 25 Montecristo A you shouldn´t meet any problmes. I took these to the states and made some people very happy.
But tell that to the immigration officer, I haven´t got a clue where they grow this type of people anyway ;-)
The bad news is, that the USA have yet failed to deal with the fact that their international airports might be used as a hub, without people wanting to imigrate. This failure leads to you having to go through the whole immigration process, pick up your luggage, carry it some 20 meters to register it into your next planes checkin - even if you just want to transfer to Europe.
This is cumbersome but maybe even the states will develop a better way of dealing with transfer passengers.
Ok, this means, that it´s important to not exceed the import thresholds.
DocBill449:
Thanks for the report and no problem with my request.
Too bad you lost a week with your Novia (Bummer!). I guess it's one thing when you are both living in the same place but when you're not, a week is a long time.
I found the most pros walking in front of the Inglatera and right at the corner in front of the Hotel Telegrafo. And if the pros are not there, you will find their pimps waiting to introduce you to the girl of our dreams.
I keep trying to get the time to reduce the size of some pics I took but am overloaded but will do it.
Take care.
Spock.
Yes, the Inglatera had some ladies around too. That's in the Prado area. I'm not sure the guys are "pimps" in the normal sense. I think they are boyfriends or friends who run interference for the girls since the cops are too heavy-handed with the girls, it's too risky. One day on La Rampa I did a double-take for this gorgeous mulatta, walking holding hands with her Cuban boyfriend and when they saw me he asked me if I wanted her. I said no, that she was his girlfriend. When they started to deny it I told them how many times I've seen this scene, and they just gave me a look of acknowledgment and moved on. I enjoy this "hobby," but I really don't feel good about screwing someone else's girlfriend, even with their permission.
Just booked (Monday) a 2 week stay return ticket on Cubana to Havana from Toronto on Sunday Jan 18/04 for $249 +136 tax. Canadian Dollars. The agent said that there were at least 6 seats left. Her computer only tells up to 6 seats available. Could be thirty or more. Cubana now allows 2 bags of 70 pounds each = 140 pounds checked baggage and 22 pound carry on. Would like to tell you the agency but don't know if it is allowed on this board.
Could be considered as spam.
Caw199
The Ingleterra had some pretty girls some nights and others not so good. Overall I think the % of hot girls wasn't that high. Most of the girls in the Ingleterra area are totally pro though. You can score some GFE but with the super hotties it's tough.
I saw two totally hot girls walk by. When they asked if they could sit at my table I said yes. When the girls attempted to sit with me the waiter wouldn't let them unless they payed a bribe to them. I'm not sure why he did this because I didn't have problems sitting and drinking with other girls. These two were the hottest I saw in the Ingleterra area. A few minutes later strangely the police showed up and ID'ed the girls. Then they called a squad car and took them away.
I also saw many guys offer their girlfriends. I'm not up for that either but the sad reality is that a large majority of the girls that you think are single are either involved with someone or have a "benefactor" overseas. Guys shouldn't be deluded into thinking they are the only ones. I'm not saying in every instance but I think in most cases that is true. Many of these girls don't look at themselves at prostitutes as much as opportunists. Maybe they aren't "working girls" in the true sense but they will try to capitalize on a chance meeting with a foreigner. The dudes that meet a girl and then claim, "but my girl is NOT a working girl" and then sleep with the girl 24-48 hours later and then buy her gifts, etc. shouldn't delude themselves into thinking that they posess some magic charm and the girl never did that with another tourist before.
Reality is reality. It's what keeps me grounded. Having fun is what it's all about. Don't confuse fun and sex with love, committment and devotion.
Also, be careful. One night one of the girls I sessioned with from the Ingleterra area I caught going through my wallet. After we sessioned, I took a shower and I remembered my wallet was in my jeans pocket. I kept the water on and came into the room. I caught her with my wallet in her hands. She claims she was looking at my ID to see how old I was but I seriously doubt it. I took my wallet and called her a thief to which she kept denying. There wasn't much money in it but keep ALL your money locked up. Sometimes I can be too trustworthy with girls. I've never gotten ripped off.
Well put, Saint, I couldn't have said it better!
Another spot I forgot to mention is in front of the Casa de la Musica in Centro Havana, before the evening shows. Lots of young hotties, some just looking for a way into the show, since they don't allow single women in.
El Cubanito
01-13-04, 16:21
Saint,
The same thing happen to me two years ago (June 2002) in Havana Vieja with a girl from Regla. Most of the girls that Hang around Malecon or Calle Obispo are from Regla.
It was around 2:30 AM and the action at Johnny or Macumba had nothing that caught my eyes or my dick for a matter of fact. So I drove around Havana by myself. I was almost ready to go home since I had driven to Boyero, Nuevo Vedado (Local sophiticated Cuban chicks), Miramar, Santa Fé, and Marianao. I saw girls, but of the ones that I saw excited me. I was having no luck so I was almost ready to go to my casa by myself. Then lighting hit, I saw this cutie by the Entrance to the Tunnel and Malecon. She was a 10 and she was exactly what I was looking for. I wanted her in the worst way. I stop by her (she was alone standing by the entrace to the tunnel) since she did not wave to me or anything. I asked if she needed a ride or anything else. She said she needed a ride and she wanted to talk to a foreigner. I said to myself, "YES". Since we were by the tunnel, I knew of this Bar/Cafe by the Regla Ferry Boat Entrance. We ate some snacks, drank some Crystal and yes we talk. After about an 1.5 hours of all this we both decided to get a room. Since Havana Vieja was so close and I knew of a couple of apartments that can give you a room for $5.00 for the whole night, we decide to come here. The casa I was staying is call now Casa Antigua or Casa Marta. Guys, do NOT STAY IN THIS CASA. The owners Marta and Horacio have high contact with Cuban Generals and Fidel himself. I met Fidel in this Casa on this trip. So consetquently the owners do not allowed any foreigners with Chicas into their casa. The House is one of the Best Casa in Havana. The Apartments was illegal, but I know the people so they put us up. When we got to the room, Gissel did this I Dream a Genie sort of Dance. This girl was hot and she was full of feminity, in another word she really knew how to get a guy very hard. She hard great curves in her body, 36 C Tits, and great eyes. I love eyes. She wanted to make me hard and she had me hard within 10 seconds.
Well, we had all sorts of fun for the next two hours. The room had no air conditioning just a fan and we were genearting tremedous amount of heat, so we were covered with sweat from top to bottom. We fell asleep after all of that fun and we awoke about 8:30 AM. We awoke we went at it again. Again, the sex was great , each time she made me come very, very hard. I told her that since she was having so much finacial difficulty I was giving her a "gift" of $90.00 ( I know that this is too much, but for me she was worth every penny since she had given me great service).
We decided to take a shower together, but I notice that she came into the shower about a good 3 to 5 minutes behind me. Well, when I went to check my money in my pant pocket ( I just wanted to see if everything was there) I notice that it was considerably short. She started crying right away as I finsih counting the money, she had given herself away. She show me the $300.00 she had taken from my pant pockets. I asked her why she did this to me and she stated that she have never seen that much money in her life. I had $ 600.00 on me. She told me she was hoping that I would not notice, but her family was in a real, ral bad shape. She gave me back my money and she asked me if I was going to call the cop. At first I was [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140), but I kind of understood her and I told her I would not call the cops. I asked her with whom she live she told me with a Boyfriend, her Mother, her 1 year old kid and Step Dad all of them live together in this shack in Regla. She asked me if I was disappointed with her. While talking she kept on crying with tears coming down her cheeks and nose. I told her that I was very very disappointed. I had given her a lot of money and she was stealing from me. She was hurting herself. I told her how did she know if I would not help her more finacially in the future or next couple of days. She also kept on saying that it was a great, great "gift". I did not want to make the situation any worse so I let it go and told her to get dress and to come with me to eat breakfast. I took her to breakfast and we talk some more about her life and stuff.
After breakfast, I drove her to her home in Regla. I met her Mom, 1 year old kid and the Step Dad. I was there for 10 minutes, when the Boyfreind/Husband shows up. I mean during this whole time she was holding my hand and introducing me as her Novio to her family. As soon as the Novio shows up, she winks at me and tells me to keep quite. I am frighten out of my mind. I tell the whole family some bull that I have to leave because I am driving to Santa Clara. At this point I just want to get out of that house. She walks me to the car and tells me to come back whenever I am in Town and that she will "treat me" good for ever.
Amazingly enough, whenever I am in town and I do call her, she does treat me very, very good. I can always count on Gissel for a good time if I can not find anybody else. Sometimes I give her gift, sometimes I do give her a dime and she never, ever complains. The "gift" amount that I do give her when I give it is in the range of $ 10 to $ 20. I try not to take advanatge since she is in such finacial stray. You know since that incident with her, every time we get together I leave two $50 bills in my pockts to see if she takes them, but no she never has. I do not know if she has learn her leson or what, but she has not stolen any more money from me.
This past year I went to Cuba 3 times and each times I have brought clothes and a small toy to her kid. The clothes are clothes that my kid boy does not ware anymore. She is very happy with what I do for her and her child. She knows of my Cuban "Novia" in Santiago, but when she is around my Cuban Novia she treats me as a friend. Whenever we are alone she treats me like a woman should treat a man. By the way guys, Gissel is still a 10, I just saw her this Past November and she is still great.
Moral of the story, do not tempt these girls with large amount in your pockets or wallets.
El Cubanito
El Cubanito (and all)
You say not to tempt the chicas with large amounts of $$ in your pockets or wallet but remember, unless you have been flashing the money around, they don't know if you have $10 or $10,000 with you. The fact that they go searching tells you at that point what they are. After this point where we know what they are, it's now only a matter of how much they will get.
In my situation, my "Novia" (NOT!) milked me for more in gifts, etc. than she could have taken from my pickets.
You showed yourself as a very forgiving person. I have to tell you, if I found anyone blatently stealing from me, I would call the cops. Stealing from someone AFTER they have gifted you a very good amount ($90 is damn good for Cuba) is not within my range of forgiveness. But I guess to each his own and I'm not saying you were wrong, just I would have done different.
As to Casa Antigua, I had communicated with them before my first trip and it came across very clearly that the owner (the man) figures their place is for the "elite" and made it clear no Cuban guests, chicas or otherwise, maybe on the patio but that's it.
Hopefully my "luck" will improve when I go in February.
Spock.
El Cubanito,
Thanks for sharing that story with us. Like I said, whether we want to admit it or not most girls are living a story differently then they portray. Rarely have I met a girl in this line of work that didn't fib a little. I have met several girls out of hundreds that were honest girls that never lied. Never carry that much money in Cuba. Keep it in your suitcase. I think the most I ever walked around with was about $300 on New Year's Eve because most of the places were expensive.
I do the same thing as you do El Cubanito with leaving money out sometimes. I only do this with girls I have a great time with and want to repeat with in the future. I often leave out a $50 or $100 bill in the open and see if they take it. Not one time has a girl ever stolen it. One time (in Rio - see report from January 2003) I thought a girl took money I left out but it fell on the floor. I ended up dating her almost a year.
Talosian,
No offense but you can only get "milked" if you let yourself get scammed. People think they can have a real relationship with someone they can't really communicate with. That isn't logical. I often read on Lonely Planet about men and women that exchange a few emails with someone in Cuba. They think they have a relationship, go to Cuba to visit a few days, meet their new *lover* and start thinking about a serious relationship. Again, I'm not saying this isn't possible but it takes a lot of time to get to know the other person. I posted this on the LP board. If you're serious about wanting a REAL relationship with someone from a foreign country you need to have them live with you in your house or you need to live with them in their country for at least 3 months.
You might say, "but I can't afford it, I can't take off work, they can't get a visa to come here, etc." If you can't afford to take off 3 months to go live with them then you can't "afford" to start a serious relationship and possible marry this person. If you're serious about a relationship you have to do something drastic like that. As usual all is just my humble opinion.
Saint
SAINT: No offense taken and in fact, you are 100% right. What happened is that since I'm only half-Vulcan, my human half took over and I thought and acted illogically. You know, there is no fool like an old fool. I also say that even negative experiences have a positive value since they add to your frame of references.
If I wanted I could go to Cuba for 2-3 months but that isn't my culture and I could not live in a police state after all my life in the U.S. And I can't bring a woman back here for a "visit" as far as I know. So I'll take whatever there is for whenever it is.
I learned from my experience and really didn't "lose" much. I still enjoyed the time in Habana, gained an insight into spending time with a Cuban family in their home and seeing things from another point of view. And now I'm going back next month a little wiser.
If I meet a "nice" lady who speaks some English, I am more than open to a close relationship but I will be realistic. I will be glad to help her and her family and when I return, if she is waiting for me, it will be "Don't ask, don't tell" on both sides. That should work for me if I find someone. And maybe with a little help from my friends, I will.
Film at 11 (in March when I return).
Yossarian 99
01-14-04, 07:43
I just heard in the news (the BBC) that Castro has banned internet access from ordinary citizens effective January 10.
It appears the only people allowed internet access will be civil servants, party officials, doctors, & other authorized persons.
If this is true, it could pose a problem for those of us trying to book casas via e-mail or those of us who have been maintaining electronic dialoges with friends over there.
Has anyone heard anything about this?
Yos
glad no offense was taken. i'll post my last little story and then let you guys post stories on your adventures in cuba. first of all, i had very very little downtime in cuba. we were rarely home. not everything i posted in my "diary" were the only events that occurred. so much happened it would be impossible to remember everything.
one story i forgot to mention is that i really believe cubans are seriously looking for a way to better their lives. the easiest way to do this is probably through an 'extranjero' (foreigner). case in point: tad's casa owner in miramar had a young granddaughter. we saw photos of her rep001tered throughout his casa. she looked young. turns out she was 18. tad is a younger dude in his early 30's. on new year's eve his casa owner was having a fiesta with their family and they brought the granddaughter over. this girl was kind of shy from what tad told me. i was waiting for him downstairs and i saw the girl looking out the window starring at him. i waved up. then the girl came out and walked down the street giving tad a chance to talk to her. he didn't as he thought maybe she was walking home.
we were waiting for some chicas to come over to my place. (i was staying next door to him). apparently the girl knew we didn't leave yet since our car was still parked. the girl actually came over to the back of our casa in the guise of wanting to pet the dog. our door was open and i told tad she wanted him to approach her. he spoke no spanish and she spoke no english so it was tough. she was cute but not gorgeous. anyway, our chicas were about to arrive so we didn't really want to start talking to her. it was obvious she was a "good girl" and wasn't looking for money. as i mentioned before, i found most cubans to be "opportunists".
his last night there we decided to blow it out. he gets this note from her in broken english (apparently she spent all day with a dictionary translating it). it basically said that even though you are 30 something and i am only 18 i like you. i think you are attractive and a nice guy. i would like the chance to start a relationship with you. please write or email me.
this shows you the mindset of a typical normal cuban girl. guys that are not used to attention from a pretty girl could easily get wrapped up in a situation like this. also, it was clear that her grandmother gave her tad's birthday as you must submit your passport upon renting a casa particular. her grandma knew tad was seeing girls yet she still wanted to see her granddaughter hook up with a foreigner.
it is possible to meet a normal girl in cuba. i'm sure of it. the thing is though that a lot of guys are like talosian. they could never live in the "jail" that is cuba. so you bring back your young hottie to the usa. ok. then she is living in the usa and out of the "jail". she sees the freedom and opportunities of the usa. she has young guys hitting on her. i can promise you that if she isn't 100% in love with you she will move on to greener pastures...
good luck all.
El Cubanito
01-14-04, 17:32
Saint,
I have a "Novia" in Santiago. She is a Doctor very, very pretty, but I am with you. I would never ever bring her here to the United States. Mind you I am 43 years old, but most people say that I look like I am between 31 and 35 and I am in great physical shape (Play alot of Basketball and Tennis). My Novia is a little older she is 29 years old and very mature for her age. But I would never ever bring her here. I will just keep this going until like Talosian say she sends me a Dear John Letter from Miami. Stating that she met someone else and has dump me and she is already here in The United States.
El Cubanito
The reason there is a paucity of girls over 25 or so is that most of the hot ones have landed foreigners and left. This is the main goal of most Cubans. The most oft-repeated prayer I heard on New Years was that Castro would die this year and they could leave the prison isle. The other girls over 30 are working and have families to care for, so you're not likely to see them hanging out in clubs or on the streets.
I have long struggled with the issue of being used as an exit ticket. I have concluded that Cubans are quite capable of loving you and using you too, but it's really, really hard to tell, and as Saint pointed out it's real easy to get caught up in the attention and affection and lose sight of reality. If she loves you then let her use you. The economic differential makes that a harsh reality. It will always be there. For me I just decided to get over it and accept it as part of the package.
It took me two years to know that my novia really loved me. She didn't even want to leave Cuba. But that took me two years and a lot of visits. I even had her investigated by a babalao! Unfortunately there are other issues that came up that I believe will prevent us from being able to work things out. Life goes on.
Saint & DocBill449
Again, I'm glad for the input and to see others have experienced situations similar to mine, now I don't feel like such a dolt.
I guess what surprises me is that "my" girl, who is 35, could have had a lot more from me if she had played her hand (and body) right. I'm a slow starter and never did anything inappropriate with/to her.
A friend of mine (met on the Boards) just says she was "STUPID!!" for looking for a quick fix of some cloths, gifts and getting some $$. She still emails me professing "love" (though we never spoke one word directly to each other in the whole week I was here) but in the same note asks for either $$ or something she needs. Now I am feeling very negative toward her for allowing me to make a fool out of myself.
I have told her I am coming back in February and if she wants to go farther, it's time for her to spend some time ("days and nights") together, just the two of us. I don't think she will but even if she bites the bullet and does, she gets one night and then I'm gone. The sword of "using" cuts both ways.
I hope to run into a nice lady there were we can put it together for when I'm there. Win/Win works for me.
Take care all and enjoy each day as if it is your last, never know when it will be.
Spock.
Talosian,
Don't be afraid to make her prove her feelings. If she is asking for $ or gifts right off the bat she isn't for you. She is a user. The true sweethearts I've met around the world have never asked me for anything. In fact, quite the opposite. Some even didn't want to accept $ for the P2P but I always do.
Your girl is stupid. Don't feel like an idiot. Don't waste your time. There are too many sweet girls out there to waste your time with a greedy girl. Hell, if you want a greedy girl just date a girl in the USA! Good luck.
Saint
Spock,
I have to agree with Saint. Cut your losses and move on. There are too many fish in the sea. She has ALREADY proven herself! What I found about many of these Cuban girls is that they are mercenary but not smart enough to fool some of us. Let it go, I've been there (recently!).
El Cubanito
01-15-04, 15:24
DocBill449 & Saint,
That is what I keep telling Talosian. I told him that as once as she see Talosian down in Cuba. She will try to have sex with him to lure him back. I told him have sex with her and move on. We are planning to go to other parts of Cuba anyway.
El Cubanito
Yossarian,
Yes Castro has put new restrictions on the internet. Part of a general crackdown that has been going on for sometime. One bit of good news is that there are increasing reports that Castro, who is 77, is in very ill health. A news item today I read said a Colombian politician who just met him says he is clearly in decline and it was hard to understand him when he was talking.
Talosian,
Just the mere fact that you STILL might want anything to do with this girl after what she does tells me you're a romantic and a softie at heart. You wrote, "I don't think she will but even if she bites the bullet and does, she gets one night and then I'm gone."
This to me signals that you are still kind of grasping at some chance to have some sort of relationship with her. Cut your losses and move on! Sometimes girls are like buying a bad stock. We've all been there. You buy a stock, keep it in your portfolio even though it's a DOG. The stock is a loser, you're losing your ass on it. It really has no long term potential but you essential 'fell in love with it' and you keep it around hopeing, almost praying it comes back. The prudent thing to do with stocks and girls like this is cut your losses and move on.
Sex is just sex. A person's actions and words are all they have to be based on. As far as I'm concerned what you described is trash.
FYI. If you plan on traveling around Cuba by car note that hobbying is very very very difficult in many towns. Hopefully you're not planning on hobbying too much. It is possible but not so easy.
Saint/DocBill449/El Cubanito
I have cut my emotional ties, I just would like some return on my investment plus, she has an appealing body. Hell, I may post her picture here. But trust me, I'm not investing any more positive emotions with/on her, that is a promise. I just want the last words, and I want them to be, "Damn, I enjoyed that. Good by *****."
And as to the stock analogy, my only response is "eConnect." Former symbol ECNC, then ECNC.ob and who knows what now.
And when I go there, I am going to find a worthwhile and willing Cuban lady and enjoy it for the day, week, month or whatever. I listen well to the objective voices here.
And as i have said before, I am not near a card-carrying monger, I'm strictly a "looking for a long-term lady" kind of guy.
And besides all the above, I will have my "chaperone" with me to make sure I don't stray back into "incurable romantic" mode. I think if I seem to be going astray, he will kick me back to the right course <smile>.
And there will be a detailed trip report on my return.
Thanks.
Spock
Estoy Negro
01-16-04, 09:25
Hello All,
I must say that this particular board has a nice appeal & lots of maturity is shown as to regard to information & personal experiences. The NON-CHICA photos are great. I usually post on the Dominican Republic board, but this board has a great bunch of guys so I read your posts everyday. I wish I could go to Cuba, but I'm a little weary of going, even though many of my friends have taken the plunge to Cuba, but I'm usually the guy who gets caught. I've had similar experiences as you guys have had, even though its two different islands. I don't know if this is the right forum for these questions, but I'll ask anyway.
My first question is if you did find a great woman, why not invite her here or to your prospective country? I live in NYC, I went out with a girl that is Cuba, great person & loved her to death. I'm not sure how her family got here, but if she hadn't come here I would have been graced with her presence. Lets say you meet a woman who you can tell is a victim of circumstance, not really all too happy with the whole PFP thing. There are some woman I've met in DR that even if they were here in the states would be straight up freaks and enjoy every minute of the sex plus get paid, these woman don't count. The hit it & quite it types don't qualify either, you know the ones right after the last sperm cell has left your body you want to kick her out.
Why not help a person do better if you can?
I met a woman on the plane who was married to an american and just received residence status after waiting 10 YEARS!!, a woman whose just after money won't be willing to wait that long. That was before 9/11, I cannot imagine how long it would take now.
Why not give a decent woman and her family a better chance at a new life? Or at least take her to another island, so she can see a different culture first hand, not what they see on T.V. Take her out of her surrounds, because when were in Cuba were on there turf. Take her to place where she has to work hard to learn the language and function in a different society. After a week or two there, you'll know is she's a good candiate. Plus after 10 years you guys might not want each other anymore, so why not cut down on wasted time and money, lol.
Well, I'm a little long winded and you get the idea. Please fell free to answer any way you see fit.
Mas Tarde,
Juan
Lap Dancer
01-16-04, 22:29
Talosian,
One suggestion for your trip to Cuba in February is to visit Santiago. It is smaller than Havana and has an entirely different atmosphere. It is still a sizable city and still offers many interesting things to see (historical sites, revolutionary history, close beach, Sierra Maestra mountains, Tropicana Club etc.), but it is more low key. There are still lots of quality chicas but less police, tourists, pros, touts, etc. It might offer you more of what you are looking for. I actually found it a much more beautiful city than Havana - but much more activity than a place like Trinidad or Camaguey.
You could arrange a flight from Havana (not too expensive) and stay at the Casa Grande (a Gran Caribe) hotel right downtown.
Estoy,
I have been to Cuba many times and I will be returning in 3 weeks. I have also dated a girl there. I'm 36 yrs, she was 26 yrs. I would have loved to taken her off the island and show her the rest of the world, the problem being is that her government will not allow her or anybody else to leave. Thats the whole problem with the situation down there, thats why you have so many beautiful women in Cuba after you, your (foreigner) like a lottery ticket. The problem for us tourists is trying to establish the real good girls from the ones that just want to get off the island. And after many visits to Cuba, you can't blame them for wanting to leave. It's a hard life there. The girl you met in N.Y.C. from Cuba, someone in her family is probably married to a guy from the states. You use to be able to "sponser" a cuban person for a work visa and/or a visitors visa for 3 months but the Cuban gov't put a stop to that since so many people were leaving the island and not returning. The only way off now is through marriage, unless your also some extremely talented musican who will be allowed to tour and other persons who fit this idea of specialty.
Because, Estoy Negro, in order to bring her here you have to apply for a fiance visa and promise to marry her within 90 days of her getting here. You also have to sign an affidavit of financial responsibility for TEN YEARS, which means that even if the relationship doesn't work out you're still financially responsible for her. I've heard a lot of true stories about girls who came here and then took off with a Cuban to Miami, leaving the American slob on the hook for a long, long time. That's why.
Rocky Mtn Man
01-17-04, 16:07
I have a freind (Canadian) who meet and feel in love with a Cuban woman. He spent close to $30,000 to get her and her child out of cuba and bring her back to Canada. She was with him for 5 years then left for greener pastures. His cost did not stop at the $30,000 either. Did she love him and plan on spending the rest of her life with him? Or did she see him as a vehicle to get her out of Cuba? We will never know.
Rocky
El Cubanito
01-17-04, 16:25
Estoy Negro,
That is a noble ideal. But in reality you have to know the person real well before before you can bring here. If you want proof of what I am talking about. Just look at these two sites. The Holguin Club in MSN. This site is full of Canadian women that go down to Holguin or Gualdalavacca for a weekend or a week. They end up meeting some of the Hotel workers (Life Guard, Entertainers, Public Relation Specialist) and then later they found that their new boyfriend has hook up with the next airplane load of canadians that have come to the Resolts. Their have been some real Cat fights bewteen these two Canadians women who are fighting over this Cuban Stud who works as a Entertainer.
I personally have been to this resort and have met most of the workers. One of my good Cuban Friends in Holguin tells me that the guy these two women is fighting over, is gay. Boy are they going to be in for a rude awakening. When their little toy does not want to play house with then an drun offs with the next gay guy he mets in canada or goes running to his husband in Miami.
Their also another Canadian woman who dated this Cuban guy for six years. SHe would go to Cuba every 3 months to visit her Cuban Boyfriend. Well, after six years she marries the guys and spends a ton of money to bring him to Canada. After a year and a half, the Cuban husband arrives. He arrive in early May. When winter roll around he said he was leaving and going to live for six months. SHe asked him why she needed her husband next to her. Well the guy gave her the bull that he could not handle the winter. Finally, after many fights he told her that truth and the truth was that he miss his cuban novia or wive, plus his son with her. She was [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140). SHe went down to Cuba all of those years, spoke spanish. Yet, nobody, nobody ever told her that this guy had a wive and a kid.
Estoy Negro if you do go to Cuba be careful with this regard because those women in Cuba will do just about anything to get off that Island. While I am at it, the Cubans do not want to get off because they do not love Castro, on the Contrary after they finish talking all of the bull-shit about Castro. If they relax around they will tell you how much they like the guy. They will blame the Miami Mafioso for their Economic downturn. Trust me on this I have spent long period of time in CUba and to a man everyone love Fidel. They want to leave because of the economic situation, not the politics. You know what the sad part is that we keep on helping Castro.
Well, that is my two cent on this subject.
El Cubanito
Guys,
Think LONG and HARD about taking on the burden, expense and more importantly the responsibility of the fiance visa process. I've never even thought about it but I know others that have. As I posted before. Unless you are willing to go to the girl's country and live with her for 3-6 months before starting this process I really think you're being foolish.
Let me give you a true life scenario. My buddy that went to Cuba with me was flying back home from Miami. He met a girl flying to the same city as he was. She was a hot girl that could speak English. I don't want to give out too many details but I'll give enough. The girl found out he went to Cuba and they started joking around about why he went there. It soon became clear that the girl was 'working"' in another country. She met this American that got her a fiance visa. Meanwhile she gives my buddy her phone number and asks for his # even though she is "in love" with her fiance. Only three days after returning home she calls my buddy and asks why he didn't call her. He gives her the obvious response, "because you're engaged."
The girl then goes on to tell my friend how her fiance is out of town and asked if he wanted to "meet". The funniest thing is that on the plane she was showing him her fiance visa and they were high-fiving one another. First the girl said her fiance was a young 35. Then when he found out she was working she admitted that he was 45. My buddy saw this guy after they went through luggage and said he wasn't a day younger than 55. The girl was 24.
My friend also was telling her of a strip club in town with a lot of Latinas. The girl asked if he knew the name and phone number. Clearly all of these things show you that the girl had no intentions of staying with her fiance. She used him and he got suckered.
I'm not saying this will always happen. There are some sweet girls out there that are honest and genuine. Trust me...I know from experience. However, guys shouldn't be deluded and totally trusting. I recommend if you are in a serious relationship you get some kind of spyware software and load it on your computer. I know it sounds horrible but at least you can find out if the girl is lying to you about anything. I had a friend that just did this and he busted his girlfriend.
Love can be blind. Good luck.
Saint
P.S. We live in one of the best countries in the world. People can badmouth the USA all they want but the simple truth of the matter is that the USA is wonderful. Sure I'd love to live in another country but the reason I haven't is because there is no country that offers the opportunities, freedoms and income that the USA does for most of us. Sure, if you're wealthy it's not a concern but most of us couldn't begin to make the kind of money we make somewhere else. I know several guys that moved to Brazil but now reality is hitting them and they are moving back here. It's VERY tough to make money in countries like Cuba, Argentina and Brazil. Part of the reason we have so much fun in these places is because we have money. Never forget that some of these places are like an adult Disney World.
El Cubanito
01-17-04, 18:55
Saint,
It very funny that you mention that story Saint. On my last trip from Cuba, I was coming back via Havana to Miami. Well, when I was going down, I met this beautyful Cuban Girl who was marry in Miami to a Peruvian. Man this girl was a 15, she was so hot!! She stop every guy in the Miami Airport as she went by with her Husband and child. Every body was so amazed that this girl had a kid and look so good. She was a Jennifer Love Hewitt clone. For those of you that do not know how Jennifer Love Hewitt looks like look the picture below. She had arrive from Cuba 4 years ago and had Married this Peruvian dude she had met in Miami. They had a Daughter after a year of marriage. The Peruvian Husband was very worry that she was going back to Cuba to visit her Mother and that she was travelling alone to Cuba by herself with their daughter. Well, we were standing in line in the Miami Airport by Terminal E and the Peruvian Husband was really stressing about all of the Bags, plus the child that she was takening to Cuba.
I personally felt bad for her, with all of the bags and all. Plus she was not bad to look at and she would beat any old lady or guy the airlines might sit next to me in this flight. I also have kids of my own and have travel with them when they were toddlers and know how difficult it can be when travelling with toddlers. I told the Peruvian Husband that not to worry that I would help his wife once we got pass the Miami security check and when we landed in Havana.
When we were getting on the airplane and getting off the airplane in Havana, I help the Cubana (Her name is Misdalesys) and her child as I promissed I would. I also help her through Immigration and Custom in Cuba. When we got outside Havana Terminal 2, Misdalesys Mother and sister were waiting for her. She introduces me to her family and thanks me for helping her so much. The car Misdalesys Mother brought to the airport comes around, but we see that the car is to small for her, the child and all of the luggage.
So I volunteer to take some of the bags on my car rental. I told them if they could wait until I got my car, that I would be happy to take them to Misdalesys Mother House in Santa Fe. Misdalesys Mother is from Santa Fe, Havana. Santa Fe is by Helmingway Marina. For those of you that do not know where Helmingway Marina is it in the westen most end of Havana, right on the outskirts of Havana. Well I took her to her Mother House and I was happy to take her and see that all of her family was happy to see her, plus happy to see Misdalesys child. When we arrive at Misdalesys mother house, Misdalesys old ex-boyfriend was also waiting. When he went to greet Misdalesys the guy put a NICE wet one on her lips. I said to myself well these guys are ready for a room and I was also schock because 4 hours ago she was saying good buy to her Husband. Now she was saying hi and a real special way to her ex-boyfriend, supposely. So I was trying to say my Goodbye because I wanted to get to my Miramar casa and start my vacation. Well, the mother wanted me to stay for dinner and she was not going to take no for an answer. To be honest guys, I stay because I said to myself if the ex-boyfriend is going to get some. I want to get some too. Well, what they had in plan was not for me to get some of Misdalesys ass, but to get some of her sister ass and see if I would fall for the next sweet thing in their stable. Her sister was another cutie, not as hot as Misdalesys, but she was hoy in her own right. The only reason I did not go after the sister that night was that her sister age was 17 years old. I did not want to go to jail (My father had spent to many years in a Castro Jail because he was a political prisoner and I did not want to keep that tradition going) so I acted stuppid. Ate dinner and left when I finished. But her sister kept coming on and on to me. So I left Misdalesys mother house and went to my reliable girl in Regla.
On my way back to Miami, I was standing in the Havana Airport with my Novia from Santiago who ha dcome to Havana to say her good bye to me. Well, guess who was standing behind me in Line when i was leaving from Havana, no other then Misdalesys, Misdalesys daughter and Misdalesys Mother. We started talking small talk about both of our trip here and how fast time went. My novia did not like this girl from the word go. I told my Novia you have nothing to worry about, I am all yours honey. But I guess my Novia knew better or smell something she did not want me to associate with this girl. On our flight back, I do not know how but we were sitted next to one another. We started talking and we exchange cell phone numbers. Man this girl was hot an dI guess she could tell I wanted her. Well, I pass through Immigration and custom in Miami and saw her Husband when we exited the secure area.
After a couple days of being here in the United States, guess who calls, but Misdalesys hereself. She starts saying how come I have not call and when I was coming to Miami. She started saying again how bad she had it with husband finacially and how she wanted more out of her life. I said to myself she is going to dump this poor fuck. She also wanted to know when was my next trip to Havana. I was like wow! Here is a girl who Marry somebody here in the US, but she does not like his financial standing. She wants to move up the latter or get me hook up with her sister.
That is my story.
El Cubanito
El Cubanito,
Ha, ha. That is funny! That is the thing about life. Half the things that happen to me or my friends I wouldn't believe it if I didn't know them. My friends that know me can't believe my life and all the things that happen. If they didn't know me they wouldn't believe it.
Thanks for posting that story. Great! Take care.
EC, great report, thanks for posting it. I assume you are Cuban and not surprised by any of this. I find it not surprising but scary. Let's see, there are the girls who come here and outright dump the American and head to Miami, the girls who stay with him, maybe have a kid, and leave later when the timing is better, the girls who stay indefinitely and just screw other guys, including their novios in Cuba during visits, and the ones who just use us as a means of getting here and then getting their Cuban boyfriend or husband here. I actually know of two couples, American men and Cuban women, who have been together here for a few years, seem to be truly in love and have had no problems, and their sincerity is apparent to me. I do not know of one single couple where the guy is Cuban where it has worked out. They seem incapable of being faithful. I'm sick of these "liberal" white American women who want to rescue a poor black boy from the third world and show him off to their liberal friends in the states as a kind of status symbol. They deserve what they get. But I digress. EC, your thoughts?
Here's my report on a one-week stay in Havana at a hotel near the Parque Central. Because of my trip companions, my options were severely limited: I could only absent myself for about 1.5 hours during the day. Nonetheless, anytime I wanted to connect with an attractive young woman there was never a problem. All I had to do was to hang around that end of the Parque Central nearest the beginning of the Paseo del Prado and the Hotel Parque Central and try to make eye contact. If no one was in the Parque itself, I'd stroll over towards the Hotel Inglaterra and try to connect with girls walking in front of it. Or stroll towards the beginning of Obispo. Most of these girls are amateurs just trying to supplement their incomes (I hooked up with students and nurses, mainly). Going rate = $20-25 for FS (what you get besides that is hit or miss, and again whether you get more than one cup of coffee depends on the blend--overall about a 50% GFE ratio). Many girls didn't even know where to go for a room, so we had to ask around. Much better if you speak Spanish. I thought most of the girls were really more interested in an extended affair: dinner, dancing, and then bed (but I explained that I was "apurado" and couldn't hang with her for that long--so, as one of them said, a jump in the sack was a good way to "become friends" quickly). Rooms will cost you from $5 go $20 for an hour. Try asking around for someone who "alquila por horas". Cubans are all very cool about this, and no one seems much embarrassed by it--one girl I was with just dropped in on an old high-school friend in the area and asked to rent the main bedroom for an hour. Bring condoms--the girl might not have any on her.
MAKES ONE REALLY THINK.
With all the things I read here about guys marrying Cuban girls (as opposed to "women"), I wonder if any of the "Bring them back alive" girls stay with their American husbands long. Of course the divorce rate in the U.S. is 50% so who knows.
Still, I think and agree that any guy, including myself, who thinks he can go to Cuba or any other country and get a "wife" 20 or 30 years younger than he is, is deluding himself thinking she will stay with him for very long.
I see now that when I was there I could have probably had my pick of the litter of 18-25-year old girls, and I'm going on 65. They all tell me "age doesn't matter in Cuba" and that's probably right but the operative term is "in Cuba."
You want a beautiful young Cuban girl for your wife (official or not), then keep a home in Cuba unless you are close to their age, speak fluent Spanish and know and practice the Cuban culture. If you keep them in Cuba, they will always be your woman (when you are there) but bring them to the U.S. and your relationship is probably heading for a "crash and burn" ending.
Yes, for those of you who have followed my saga, both here and on the L.P. Board, I went there seeking a "relationship" with an attractive Cuban woman (35-years old, single, no kids) and quickly found she was just looking for $$ and gifts. Even an old dog can learn new things.
So while there may well be the occasional Cuban "lottery winner," just rmemeber the odds.
Just my 2-pesos worth.
Spock.
El Cubanito
01-19-04, 21:47
Hi DocBill,
You know I listed that story so Estoy Negro member would get an ideal as to what some people will go thru to get off the Island. Plus to let Saint know that a similar situation had happen to me like his friend. Just as there are people who want to leave Cuba. There are Cuban people who are very confortable with stayng in Cuba and those Cubans have no desire to leave Cuba. If one day we can coordinate our travels Doc, just you and me. I will introduce you, Doc to those Cuban people or families.
Also, I want to add that sometimes we only spread negative news and the positive news is never spread. I personally know of 4 couples (Foreigners who have been to Cuba and who have married Cuban Women) that are doing very well with their relationship of marriage to a Cuban Lady. The Cuban wives are helping their Husband with their lives here in the United States. Talosian, like said it is not impossible to find a good Cuban woman and bring her here to the United State and have a good life with her. But like Saint say, you have to know that person very well.
El Cubanito
It has been over 10 years since I went to Cuba.
The only experience I have had with Cuban woman marrying US men was this: I meet this man in Cuba. He was 68ish she was 29. They got married in Cuba. He applied to bring her back to the states. The US Government gave him some grief about travel to Cuba. After 2 years of legal issues, and her milking him for cash, she makes it to the states. She stays with him for a couple of months in South Dakota. Then she disappears and reappears in Miami.
He had the marriage dissolved, she reappears in SD when he dieds seeing if she gets anything from the will, which she did not.
I will be leaving in a few weeks for a trip to Russia on a wife shopping tour.
Email me if you want an update on how it goes. I'm sure their will be some 50 something guys on the tour.
As for me going back to Cuba - no way.
Go to Brazil if you want a young wife. Better looking, better selection, better additude. I have meet many older man in Brazil (from other countries) who have Brazilian wifes. Many dumped their wives and moved to Brazil.
Rocky Mtn Man
01-20-04, 04:39
For CT,
I am sort of in the same boat as you. I want to get away for a week and was considering both Cuba and the DR. I have not been to either. I have read this board for a few months and have decide on the DR as a result of the research I have done here. It seems the airfair is the same for both on average and the price of staying in a hotel in Sousa and a Casa in Old Havana is pretty close to the same. I am going to stay at the Palace. It seems like a nice place and I have had good email contact with the owner. The reason I decided on the DR is mostly because I am going down for the whoring and it seems to be easier in the DR. I am not interested in the LE situation in Cuba. If I meet a woman I want to spend a bit of time with, I dont want to be looking over my shoulder every time we go downtown for a coffee. On the upside, there are a lot of very attractive women in Cuba. I am working on getting away for the first week of March and will let you know how the whoriday goes.
Rocky
Live and learn, Spock. I'll tell your mother you're "feeling" fine!
Estoy Negro
01-21-04, 07:30
Great, great stuff guys, I knew I would get real answers & real life suitations. I often read this particular board because of the positive things said & the beauutiful photos, reminds me of my old girlfriend. Reading the message boards in the DR1 newspaper is informative, but at times gets into a name calling match when one person insults the other & the actual topic is lost. In those message boards the talk of the whole prospective of living, dining, earning money in DR. Lots of input from women which we'll never get because were talking about women.
At first going to DR & Jamacia, you get caught up with them saying they love you, but if you go alot & with friends your bound to sleep with a girl your buddy did, then your thoughts on the girl will change especially if claims to be a good girl.
Then again, I'm 38 & it takes 10 years to get her here, I don't think it would be her fault if she says she doesn't love me anymore.
I might not either...lol I won't be able to get to Cuba, so my island of choice has been DR. I said before when it comes to going against the grain & going to Cuba would be,
I WOULD BE THE ONLY GUY CAUGHT...lol
Thanks guys
P.S. Rocky MTN Man, PM me, so I can tell you some good places to go, Don't want to clog up this board of talk of another place.
EarlBrowder
01-21-04, 16:39
Lacking the patience to arrange a trip to Cuba, but stuck in the middle of a cold, cold Northern winter and dreaming of soft brown skin and bright white smiles, I set up a week-long trip to the DR (The North Coast, Sosua/Cabarete). The chicas there are nice looking, friendly, and sweet (for the most part), plus the scene is very easygoing. However, got to tell you, it ain't no Havana and it ain't no Cuba. I may go back again to the DR, but Cuba will always be mi numero uno destination for women, culture, amigos, etc.
EDITOR's NOTE: Posting of this report was delayed pending revisions to remove the multiple periods throughout the text. To avoid delays in future reports, please consider using a comma to separate the phrases in your sentences. Thanks!
El Cubanito
01-22-04, 00:54
Estoy Negro,
Do you want to go to Cuba or not? If you do want to go then you should not be so negative, make your plans and go. The problem is coming back to the united states. If you are so sure that you are going to get caught then spend a day in Cancun, Toronto, Nassau or Montego Bay. This way US custom will not be able to say that you came back from Cuba. You will not have any problems. If you have any doubts at to how many Americans go to Cuba, just hang out by the Inglelatera Hotel. You will be shock as to the numbers. I am constantly bumping into Americans in Cuba. I met a an American who has move to Cuba. The guys makes about $10,000.00 a month. So he lives year round in Cuba. His Visa is for 90 days, after 90 days he hops on a Plane from Havana to Nassau and comes back the same day on the same plane back to Havana. The guy has been living in Cuba for the last 3 years. He is not bull shitting either because the casa owner is a relative of mine. So if you want to go, then go. But man do not live in fear. Your name Estoy Negro sounds spanish. I am assuming you are Spanish? Where are you from Estoy Negro? Puerto Rico? Dominican Republic? Venezuela? Columbia? Maybe Cuba?
I am just curious and if you need help let me know.
El Cubanito
Estoy Negro
01-23-04, 06:15
Thanks for the info, now I know how to go about it. I'm not afraid, I just don't want to be made an example of. The way you advised, I'll follow. I will talk to my friends & one weekend of this year we'll do it, not only for the women, but for the experience of seeing the country. The women will just be a benefit. It will be nice to see what you've seen in books and now in real life.
Thanks again
I'm a black american, just a regular guy from NYC.
Organicgrowth
01-25-04, 17:12
Gentlemen,
I'm in a bit of a stress, and would request some comments.
A number of fellow mongers have asked about places to stay and indeed I need to organise a place to stay for my April visit. Guess what: ALL my contacts have failed to reply to my emails within the past 3 weeks. Something is happening. Direct calling has also failed to make contact.
Is anyone else finding this or is it just me from Europe?
Montreal Friend please check your PM.
Regards, Havanaman
Havanaman,
Check out this web site http://www.cubanonet.com/greenscreen/. It's an excellent site that many people from all over talk about there Cuban experiences. You'll find a section called "casa particulars" and hopefully you'll be able to establish some new contacts. This site is totally non-sexual, by the way.
Hi, quick info from Jose Marti Airport just before checkin.
La Habana is buzzing as ever, just a few comments on the changes. Since August 03, the economical sitaution has deteriorated (it does not seem possible, but yet it has). Even in the Feria there are no sexy clothes to be found anymore, nor in the dollar shops. Therefore, if you want to do your girl (s) a favor, bring lots of sexy stuff from the street markets in your town. Just pick your preferred size (36, 38...).
5ta Avda. does not offer anything for mongerers. The policia presence near the embassies forbid it, its nearly completely gone.
But don't despair: There's much action on Linea, La Rampa etc. including all sorts of hustlers.
Will update when I have more time.
Havanaman,
it is nearly impossible to call Cuban numbers for no obvious reason at all. Even when calling via GSM from Habana, I had nearly never success in calling. If you want, I'll PM you some addresses which are recommendable, but these casas are 30$+ and most of them are chica friendly if you restrain from having more than one show up. Fines are 1500 US$ for unregistered cubanas for teh dueños, and therefore, most of them don't appreciate a daily change.
snark
Johnny Diver
01-28-04, 00:17
Please read this post that I received! It is from a service I subscribe to for information.
Prostitutes arrested in Havana and Pinar del Rio
HAVANA, Jan. 26 (www.cubanet.org) - More than 40 prostitutes plus their pimps
have been arrested in roundups in Havana and Pinar del Rio.
The arrests in Havana occurred Jan. 16 in the municipality of El Cerro where
more than 20 prostitutes were picked up.
According to residents of the area, the women came from the interior and did
not even have the necessary residents' permits to allow them to live in the
capital. The residents had complained to authorities about the illicit
trafficking at the intersection of Primelles and Santa Catalina Avenue.
Reports from Pinar del Rio said more than 40 prostitutes, between the ages of
17 and 20, were also arrested there and were sentenced to two to four years
for harassing tourists. Their pimps were reported to have been sentenced to
six years.
The sentences were to be carried out in the "Jardín" agricultural prison.
I guess we can look at this message two ways:
1. Watch your ass.
2. Just think how many are out there if they are making this type of a sweep!
By email, nice report.
Your comment about pubic hair hit home with me since it clearly points how "different strokes for different folks" is really true. I prefer pubic hair. Wonder if it's my age (almost 65).
I would like to take a survey. Any comments (preference/age)?
Going on the 16th. for a second time. This time much more travel.
Take care all.
Spock.
AS promised a little updating doesn´t hurt. Well, the chicas (SW) come often in pairs, they wait in front of the traffic lights, these days ("cold" in Cuban terms), they wear more stuff than when it´s "warm". Anyway, it´s easy to confuse them with just another hitchhiking person. If you agree to one to join you, you have to be quick to avoid the second one getting into your car, as normally only one does the "work" properly.
Wait until they ask you (for non-spanisch speaking ppl: wait for the words mamada or pompino = BJ) then you know for sure you received an offer. In case someones just wanting you to take her to someplace, you might just switch into GF-mode: eating out, dancing whatever. You might as well get lucky.
If you don´t rent a car, any hustler outside Habana Libre will be willing to help you (L and 23). Just wait and see, everything passes by...
Bye4now
Hi guys,
I am a french citizen currently living in Texas.
I would like to know if European citizen need a visa to go to Cuba or to Dominican Republic ?
Also I am looking for someone to go there with as I am a really new monger and never been to any of these places nor speak any spanish (sounds bad for me, huh).
I will probably go around the 15/18 of April.
Let me know
Thanks to whoever can help me out
Organicgrowth
01-31-04, 01:11
KR Man,
I presume that you have a French passport; you will need a tourist visa (tourist card), get this from you ticket supplier in the country you use to "hop" in to Cuba. In fact all entry into Cuba is by a visa for both business or tourism. Going by Mexico is your easiest, safest and best bet.
Ensure you are careful about the immigration issues: see previous posts here and in the general section.
From your dates, we will unfortunately not be able to meet, I’m in Havana a week before you.
Regards, Havanaman
Hi sorry guys I have made a mistake on my dates. I'll go there around 15th/18th of MAY.
I apoligise.
If it suits any of you guys, let me know.
Havanaman,
It sounds like you are going to be in Havana around the Easter holiday season. Do you or anyone else think this is a good time to go? Is it busier than normal? Does everything stay open(bars/clubs)? I hope the girls don't stop having sex because it's a religious period. I am planning a trip early April to take a spanish course, do some mountain biking, and hopefully meet some nice Cuban girls. Any info/advice would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Maharadjah
02-03-04, 12:30
Hi guys,
I've been in hav last year. I was in Johnny Rio Club. You can't get in alone. Hopefuly there are girls outside waiting for customers. 10$ fee admission. The girls are expensive above 100$ to 150$ for all night. You can bargain to 80$ but less it's very difficult. The girls are very beautiful there (up 7) and there are decent (many don't drink-smoke) and well dressed. I saw one who looks like a Russian girl.
You need a casa particular to bring girls for the night. Does anyone can report an action from this club and the price, and if can share a adress of a good casa particular, por que I will be in Havana next month.
LR
EDITOR's NOTE: Posting of this report was delayed pending revisions to add standard capitalization throughout the text. To avoid delays in future reports, please refrain from using the "chat room" style of writing with no capital lettering. Thanks!
Organicgrowth
02-05-04, 00:14
Dran Reb,
I’m going Easter time because for me it was the first available holiday period. No other reason for picking this time slot.
As to chicas, man they are there all year round: pro, amateur and non-pro, just read the past reports.
The fact that it will be Easter will NOT stop you having an excellent experience. Remember, that Cuba is a communist country and although there is a high level of Christianity it is less open than in the west. Bottom line is it will not hamper your enjoyment.
PM me your dates and depending on whats happening, we might be able to hook up.
Regards, Havanaman
El Cubanito
02-05-04, 01:16
La Rond,
Johnny Rio Club, has always been known as a Club with good looking girls. I can not comment what the action might be now, but back in 2002 when I visited the place the place was always good for 3 or 4 chicas in the 9 or 10 range. The price you quote are very high for what I pay back in 2002. But I guess inflation is jacking the price of the Cuba Chica. BTW, I pay $50.00 for 4 hours of staying with me.
Ramon
Johnny's has also always been known as a club full of rip-off hard core pros, many of them drug addicts (yes, there are plenty of drugs in Cuba). Anybody paying those prices at that place for those girls is crazy in my book.
On another subject, travel, does anyone know whether it would be better (i.e. shorter, cheaper, less hassle) to go through Cancun or Mex. City? I'm starting from San Francisco. I've been going legally from Miami lately but that's gotten too expensive. Thanks!
Organicgrowth
02-05-04, 23:40
DocBill449, Gentlemen
I’m with you all the way.
“Johnny’s” / “Rio Club” / “rip-off joint” (best name for it really), has gone down hill over the years. OK, some excellent lookers can be found there, however, being of the barracuda variety (which is rare for Cuba in general) do not perform well on par. This is generalised I agree, however on the many occasions, in the past I used to frequent this place, this was my experience (see Archived reports).
There some excellent alternatives to the “tourist-trap” clubs, ranging from the Saturday night university parties (need to have contacts to find them…) to the local hangouts, local to where you might be staying. Just ask: its that simple. The owner of your casa (always go for the guy on this one!) will help. Cubans are lovely people and will never turf you out.
Sorry DocBill449, I can not comment on your route from SFO… However, when I have been in the States, I always return MEX – HAV – Europe.
Regards, Havanaman
Anybody going to be around Havana from 14th to 22nd Feb? PM if so and meet for a beer?
Andyj
FlyingDutchman
02-12-04, 15:21
I just saw some messages, I also can't reach any telephone in Cuba. It would be a great help when somebody now what is going on there. I was there begin of January and only for 5 days. All girls i got where asking for about $50 for the night,but could also get thim down more. For multiple days its even less, and my girl did not even ask for anything, bought some food for the familie and some shirts and other little stuff so came out to $25 a day. Actuelly I got a full time taxidriver and he nows his way around and when I saw a girl I did like he would get here in the car so I could talk to here a. A little bid different then Dominican, but I could feel home here to.
Hey P Jack.
Thanks for the "Chicas a la sale message" Hope Cuba is fun for you, and hope to see you again in Panama.
Believe it or not, going legally, which I've been doing, has become an expensive pain in the ass. I'm thinking of going back like I used to, through Mexico. Can anyone recommend a travel agency (Canadian, I would guess) that can book me straight through to Havana? I've been in touch with Nash Travel but they seem pretty flaky, not returning calls or e-mails.
Long Stroker
02-21-04, 20:07
DocBill449,
I used Nash Travel to fly from Cancun to Havana in the spring of last year. They fax you a voucher that you redeem at the counter in Cancun for a ticket. Yes, you are correct, they aren't the quickest on returning calls or emails, but I think this is because they run a very small staff to keep costs low. The lady I finally talked to on the phone was quite helpful, but sounded very overworked.
LS
Longstroker, thanks so much for that feedback. That lady at Nash would be Liliana, right? Ok, I'll be a little more patient with them since they seem to come through allright. Thanks again.
Looking to head over to Cuba in April. Anyone can give me the low down, I would appreciate it.
Need to know where to stay where the girls are, how much they charge etc.
Thanks!
Organicgrowth
02-24-04, 17:05
GhettoC,
Backtrack a few months on this board and you will find all the answers.
Regards, Havanaman
Can anyone help me out with a Canadian travel agency that can get me from San Francisco to Havana at a reasonable price? I've already tried Nash Travel and they are as expensive as they are flaky! Thanks!
What's up Doc?
Why not go through Cancun? I believe it would be cheaper and faster from San Fran.
Give Dan Snow a call @ 512-458-4940. He is a travel agent out of Austin, TX. He has been to Cuba hundreds of times. He also has a web site cubatravelusa.com. I used him a few years ago and was very happy with the results.
Have a good trip and post a report on your return.
Peterman
I find that using last minute travel package from Canada is the cheapest way to travel to Cuba. The only disadvantage is that you have to spend a week minimum. Just take a one-week "air-only" package from a travel agency. There are many you can search on web. Try this.
http://www.travellastminute.ca/LMT-VaraderoCUBA.html
I saw one for $179 RT from Toronto-Varadero. You can take a $10 AC bus from Varadero to Havana. Also, Varadero has excellent beaches and I think it is a good place for a day or so. Not my choice but logistically, it is a cheaper way to travel. That is how I went last year. You can find many cheap flights from US to Toronto or take southwest upto Buffalo/Niagra falls. I used my 25K Frequent flyer miles upto Toronto.
I did not see any news of Isla De la Juventud in a while. This is my favorate place. Can anybody post an update?
Hi,
How much should I expect to pay a girl for a night? What about something like 6 hours?
wehre is the bvest place to meet them?
Thanks for your help guys.
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Anyone going to Habana from the U.S. in the next couple of weeks? I would appreciate it if someone could take some photos I tookl last December when I was there and give them to a lady there. You can PM me.
Many thanks.
Spock/David
Guys,
I need your help. Please help me.
I am hesitating between going to Costa Rica and Cuba?
In terms of price, which one is cheaper for long stay, like couple of hours or overnight, with a girls?
And friendlyness, as I don't to be with someone who will rush so she can leave .
Thanks for your help.
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KR Man, I strongly suggest that you read the back reports and archives, and you will find your questions answered here. They have been covered many many times.
As for Cuba v. Costa Rica, it is apples and oranges. Strictly for sex Costa Rica is easier and more expensive. Good luck!
Organicgrowth
03-03-04, 23:25
KR Man,
I agree with DocBill449: read the board for the various price options! I also agree with him about CR for just sex (but remember the cost issues).
However, I would urge you to try Havana as it is today, at least once. It changes every day, so one day (as previously discussed, and no I’m not starting that thread again…) you may wish to have seen it under the last bastion of “western” communism.
Regards, Havanaman
Hey guys,
I will be in Havana from March 15th to 22nd. Anyone want to meet up there as I am a rookie monger?
Hey guys,
I have been reading previous post as advise bu doc and Havanaman.
I have read in many post that it is not as easy as it used to be to monger in cuba as the local police enforce locals not to hang with foreigners.
Is it still a good place to monger or is it harder and harder as I don't wnat to waste too much of my time there trying to hide?
I love cuban ladies and I want to get laid with some tru hotblooded cubans girls.
Thanks
KR Man,
Again, please read back posts, as this subject has been extensively covered by many, including myself. It is true that Cuba is no longer a mongering haven, and the police do hassle and often arrest Cubans for just being with foreigners. I can't even walk the streets there with my girlfriend of two years. Yes, we do a lot of hiding and I am sick of it.
If you just want to have sex with cuban ladies go to Miami, it's easier. But as Havanaman says, Cuba is an incredible place to visit overall, and it won't last much longer, for better and worse.
El Cubanito
03-07-04, 00:17
KRman,
I will be in Cuba form March 31 to April 12. If you want mongering without the hassel go to East of Cuba. I just sent you a PM, please read.
El Cubanito
El Cubanito
03-07-04, 00:18
Hey Doc,
When are you leaving?
El Cubanito
Hey, Cubanito,
I'm leaving May 5 for ten days, going through Cancun this time. I usually travel (quasi) legally, but it's too expensive. As for the east of Cuba, you might be right but I heard that the situation in Santiago is even worse than Havana in terms of police hassle.
I was in Havana for 12 days a few months ago for a conference. Went legally. Have been going there for the past 12 years, though not as much in the past 4 years.
Things have definately changed. Meeting ladies has become much harder, but I did get picked up by a few cuties on the Malecon and just walking in Old Havana. Did not rent a car because I wanted to be able to have a few beers and drinking and driving there is not a very good idea any more. Ended up with 7 girls over 12 days. Was able to walk around with them without problems from the police. If they are not known hookers, I haven't had a problem.
I don't go there for mongering any more because it is just too much work, and I've gotten spoiled by Brazil, Thailand, and Costa Rica. Don't expect any significant changes in the near future.
Snook
Organicgrowth
03-14-04, 10:45
El Cubanito,
Our dates cross. Hook up? Check your PM.
Regards, Havanaman
El Cubanito
03-14-04, 16:49
Havanaman,
I will not be in Havana on this trip. The furthest west I will be in Cuba will be Santa Clara. Havanaman why don't you come east of Cuba if you have the time?
El Cubanito
PS the attach pic is the reason why I am going to Santa Clara
Hey El Cubanito,
I haven't visited the Cuba section in months but it was nice to hear you have a sweetie from Santa Clara. I also met a cute girl from there. She was pretty and really sweet. Have a great time.
Just got home from one week in Havana March 4th to 11th here is my assessment of the situation as of present. Flew Air Canada rate was $375 Canadian + tax last minute is usually cheaper than booking ahead. Private casa's are plentiful personally I recommend Vedado area good central location in Havana. Got a decent room in the casa for $25 US per day very good rate usually more it was near the University of Havana. In Miramar you pay more but really nice casas here. You can travel by taxi for 3 dollars just about anywhere you need to go from this location. Cubans passed a new law (there are many) where the owners of the casa's must live there and so they can only leave you alone in the casa for part or most of the day. You can always rent a illegal casa if you want there are many as well. The police presence is plentiful the fulltime hookers are nervous around them and the police know who they are generally just look for the cell phone. At night it is a little more relaxed for the negotiations. Club Macumba Diablo Tun Tun were both closed due to drug busts the Manager and staff were in prison is the story by the Cubans I know that hangout. Casa de la Musica in Centro Havana was closed for electrical work being done. The best two bars when i was there was La Chorrera and Club 1830 both beside each other on the Malecon just before the tunnel to Miramar. La Chorrera has a few 7's 8's and 9's they start high each one is different but they will go for 50-70 dollars entrance here is 5 dollars. Johnny's Rio Club is in Miramar the women here are greedy the lower level is for the working girls the upper level are not available. They all start at a hundred here got one for $70 I would rate her a 8 session average to good. La Maison is near Johnny's in Miramar a fashion show and music show after the models are available. 10 dollar entrance fee per person it starts around 10:30 music show around 12:00 the models are outside where you first come in but off to the side and it's dark heck you probably could use a little flashlight to get a better look at them. If you like one ask the waiter for her name it will help when you go out front to get her. The models are nice but not 10's really wasn't overly impressed nice bods of course if your into skinny tall women and want to pay 80+ give or take had a 8.5 here good session. 23rd Ave in Vedado at night has many working girls they will go much cheaper many from other cities some desperate for cash. Havana Libre Hotel has a bar on top of the building with action. Many of the best looking working girls i saw actually eat and hang out in restaurant main floor with windows overlooking 23rd Ave. Got hit on by a 9 as i walked in around 11pm she was 18 suddenly i wasn't hungry anymore and left with her. It's a hit and miss story if you see something you like get her cell number she works cheaper during the daytime. Old Havana is good during the day good restaurants Prado y Neptuno in Parque Central is quite good. Lots of Cubans trying to get you to eat somewhere else to get there commission never listened much to them. They always start with where are you from my friend nice people very nice people the Cubans i have to say. Tres Chinitos is very good as well this is in China town same area off to the side of Parque Central on Dragonose Ave Dragon in English. One entrance is for the Chinese food other for Italian food many many Cubans here at the Italian side just up the stairs. The food is cheap and good a rare combination in Cuba. Good food in Cuba prevents those rough days spent half on the toilet. My young Casa owner a cool guy introduced me to a local pimp is what I would call him excellant guy really he knows virtually hundreds of women i ordered my type like a dinner the last 3 days with good results generally ladies that don't go to the bar anymore who knows why. Difficult to find the really really hot ones in Havana Brazil and Argentina is a little better for quality check Rio's www.ciaplus.com or chasemodels.com.br or karlamodels.com.br for fun there are many others as well. I had a 10 in Santa Clara Cuba for 1 1/2 years it was great until the Italian found her and took her home within a few weeks wasn't really surprised they want out big time at least the people i have met. I spent $1200 US in one week spared no expense never do on holidays. Marina Hemmingway out past Miramar also worth going to especially if it's hot and you need a swim very nice facility here. Anyway that's my two cents i had a great week it's not as good as it use to be in the old days due to the Cuban police and the countless laws which the Cubans themselves hate however it's quite a safe and friendly country.
El Cubanito
03-16-04, 02:13
Hi Saint,
I read your Cali trip reports and after reading I might go there after I leave Cuba for 5 days. I know that does not sound like much, but what do you think?
El Cubanito
That is how long I was originally going to go for- 5 nights. I ended up extending and stayed 10 nights. I almost extended again but I had to come back to work. I'm leaving for the French Riviera this week so I had to get a lot done before going.
I think since you are fluent in Spanish and sound like you have some "game" you will like it. Cali is not a beautiful city. In fact, the city is pretty much a dump. The beauty, much like Cuba is with the people. The locals were the friendliest group I ever met. The girls in Cali are more beautiful than any place % wise I've been. Walk around Chipi Chape mall on a Friday or Saturday night and you'll be in heaven. I made a new girlfriend there and I'm planning on flying her to Lima to go to Machu Picchu with me.
I really didn't like hobbying in Cuba and won't return to Cuba for the girls. It will be for the country and the wonderful people there. Hobbying in Cuba is depressing when you think about what could happen to the girls if they get caught. Also, I didn't find Cuban girls over all to be that hot. Much hotter girls in other places I've been.
I guess I won't be hobbying in Peru. Oh well. 5 days is plenty. Have fun amigo. Let us know how it goes.
Saint
Fast Hand,
Thanks for the report. Some fasinating stuff there. I took alot of notes for my upcoming trip. I can't believe there is that amount of action around the Hotel Libre still. That area is crawling with cops.
I am paying $750 Canadian total for airfare but I booked 6 weeks in advance so you got a great price.
It's been a while since I have posted here but something Saint just said really struck a cord.
If you go to Cuba and have a great GFE, chances are 99 44/100% that you won't see her again if and until you return. But as Saint points out, get a great GFE someplace else and she can probably accompany you on any trips you want (assuming you over the expenses). To me, this would carry a lot of weight in choosing a destination.
I also agree though that Cuba has a lot to offer in many ways and my comment above is on the single issue of having the freedom to take your new found g/f on trips with you.
My two pesos worth.
Spock.
El Cubanito
03-17-04, 13:06
Talosian
Check your email I have sent you two emails.
El Cuabnito
Just to add to Spock's good point, don't expect to be able to travel with your girlfriend WITHIN Cuba either. It used to be difficult but is now near impossible. If you're lucky it would only be a major hassle with numerous authorities, and good luck finding a place to stay outside of Havana or Santiago.
As for bringing someone out of the country, the only way I'm aware of doing that is the fiancee visa, a process that takes about a year and (technically) requires marriage once she gets here (US). I'm actually doing this now.
On a different note, I'm going back in early May and for reasons too boring to go into I'm not staying at the same casa particular in Habana. Can anyone recommend one where I and my girl can stay with some reasonable privacy? Vedado preferred. Thanks guys.
El Cubanito
03-18-04, 00:52
Hi DocBill449,
You can stay at 588 Calle C, between calle 23 and 25 in Vedado, Havana. The owner of the house is a lady called Tomasa. Unfortunately, she does not have a telephone number. But you can tell your Novia since she lives close by to go to her house and make arragement for May. SHe is a great lady and she will take care of you. Her house is right next to the school on Calle C. The rooms she has are really great. You have your own private bathroom. The bathroom and room are really great. SHe rents two rooms, you can take any of the two rooms you will not be incovenience.
Docbill, I can also give you the address of a house in Miramar if you want to stay in Miramar. The owners are great people and I have never had any problems with them as far as having chicas in my room. The house is even better then the one from above.
Guys, maybe because I speak spanish (But I do not think that is the case since I always rent a car in Cuba, local know what cars are tourist by car by the plate) but I have never been hassle with my novia in Cuba.
Did any body see the Movie on Cinemax last night called Balseros. The movie is actually a documentary of the life of these group of Cuban who left Cuba in 1994 and what has happen to them in the last 10 years of their life in the land of the "free". Most have found that they had it better in Cuba because they have not been able to adopt. Out of 5 families that the documentary follows, one only "made it". The movie is worth following.
El Cubanito
About two years ago I made my first trip to Buenos Aires, Argentina. I fell in love with the city and the people there. It broke my heart to see so many people less fortunate than us. There are many children that don't have adequate clothing or food. Shortly after my first trip I had a goal of starting a non-profit foundation or charity to help out these people. I was surprised when Jackson (owner of WSG) was at my apartment in BA and told me that he was in the final stages of starting the same type of charity. I was amazed and touched that we had the same idea. There really was no need to redouble my efforts.
The news media likes to talk about a side of the hobby that the majority of us aren't a part of yet they don't talk about the other aspects. I'm not quite sure how much WSG Charities has raised over the past year but I'm proud to say that many guys have contributed. Some have made very generous donations of $1,000 or more. I think that's wonderful! There are so many guys that receive benefit from WSG. Directly and indirectly. I posted the following below and I would ask you to read it and make a contribution.
Maybe Jackson will decide to branch out and help feed the poor of other cities. There is so much good we as a collective group can do. There is nothing better than helping someone less fortunate than yourself. Please give generously.
I know some of you will have the response, "yeah, I already donate to charities in the USA" or make up some other excuse. Many of us donate to charities in the USA as well but I'd ask that you consider helping out this cause.
________________
"Hi amigos. Some of you may be aware that Jackson has taken the time to start a charity to help feed the poor of Buenos Aires and the surrounding communities. It's ironic because we both had the same thought about trying to do something to help the poor of Buenos Aires. He was much further along and took a lot of time and effort to put it together. Several of you have emailed me over the past several months asking if I still had plans to start something like this. There is really no need to double my efforts as we have the same goal.
I am asking all of you that have received benefit from my posts in the past and all of you that have received benefit from WSG to make a donation. This probably includes just about everyone reading this forum. Even if you have no plans to visit Buenos Aires you have probably received an indirect benefit of living vicariously through members from this forum. I'm not asking you to contribute a huge amount although if you could that would be great. With the sheer number of guys that read this board all it would take is a small donation of $10, $15, $20, $25, or $50 a year to make a big impact. If you can afford it then donate a few times a year.
I'm sure many of you could care less about the poor of Buenos Aires. If that is how you feel than so be it. I strongly feel that everyone can afford to contribute AT LEAST $10 or $15 to this cause. Several of us at the Thanksgiving Dinner last year contributed money to help with this cause. I hope that in the next few months I see more and more people with a designation under their handle that says they have donated. I didn't even know Jackson was doing that but it's probably a good idea. I would personally feel offended if I'm down there and out hobbying with some of you and you didn't contribute at least a little to this charity.
I feel like I've taken time to contribute through my posts and I've never asked any of you for anything. This is the first time and I hope you can find it in your heart to help out. You can make a donation with Paypal.com and that is probably the quick and easiest way. (To make it easy for him you might want to include your handle with your paypal.com donation). Please keep in mind that this is Jackson's project and he is the one that took the time to put it together. I know he probably didn't want to solicit donations and he never asked me to. I'm asking on my own behalf. Thanks in advance for your generosity!"
Saint
www.wsgcharities.com
Lankan_Lover
03-23-04, 16:12
i have done a little research on the possibility of havana - cali, columbia mini trip. i find an airline that seems to be really good.
copa airlines (www.copaair.com) has flights between havana to columbia everyday both ways via panama city. flight time is about 5hrs 30mins. the price is only us $ 396 total. they seem to have an office in miramar.
has anybody bought a ticket from copa air in havana in miramar? how is this airline in terms of safety record?
i am going to havana from april 23rd - may 4th. i want to see fidel’s may day rally and speech in havana. does he do that every year? i would like meet fellow members of this forum in havana.
If you want to got o Cuba, and your whole point of the trip is mongering... Fly to dominican Republic. Spend a day or two ther eget a little tan get prepped up and then fly to Cuba from there. And do the same ont eh way back, fly from cuba to DR, spend a couple of days in Dr then fly back to the states. That way if you bought some cuban cigars you can try and pass them off as dominican knock offs.
Organicgrowth
03-24-04, 18:57
Lankan_Lover,
I have used Copa, they are OK, nothing special. Be warned about booking in Havana. The agents will tell you they are full, and try to sell you a business class ticket… It’s a common scam in Havana, I’ve been stung by it, so make all your bookings from outside of Cuba. I had a couple of days in Panama on this route, nice place, but limited time for me to monger.
See PM: I have seen Castro speak many times, but I’ve not been in May so can not comment. If you stay for the full presentation / talk, you deserve a medal!
Regards, Havanaman
Come on guys, help me out here: I still need a chica-friendly casa to stay at next month. Got a recommendation from El Cubanito but no phone to make a reservation. Anyone know of one that you'd recommend? Vedado preferred. Thanks.
Organicgrowth
03-24-04, 19:26
DocBill449,
We are in the same boat! I’m going to wing it… Back to the old taxi-recommendations for me for my first night in early April. I will PM you with what I can find.
Regards, Havanaman
El Cubanito
03-25-04, 01:02
DocBill,
I will get the phone numbers on those two houses in Vedado and Miramar. I have been extremely busy. I have had to postpone my trip for March31 until April 14. I simply have to much work which I cannot turn away considering the economic conditions the US is in right now. I will have phone numbers for you by Friday.
El Cubanito
AlLostInSpace13
03-25-04, 05:22
DocBill & Havanaman,
Have you tried martavitorte@NOSPAMhotmail.com ? Nice rooming apartment in vedado.
Quifhunter
03-25-04, 23:50
I was in DR about a month ago and had a blast, met some excellent girls and enjoyed the company of some fellow punters.
I want to pass on the comments of some American ex pats living in Sosua that I met. They said they would not go to Cuba now because they were concerned that the Dominican Republic authorities were passing on information to US authorities, such as travel manifests.
I am the last one to discourage punter travel, especially to Cuba. I am just saying to be careful and check it out.
Organicgrowth
03-27-04, 11:12
Quifhunter,
Your warning is very justified. I have no doubt that in this day n’ age of extremist stupidity (of every ilk…) every airline passenger manifesto is being scrutinised by the powers that be.
I guess that they are concentrating on known names and patterns of travel, rather than the solitary trip now and again. However that still means ones name has been “made” every time one goes to Cuba. Shit happens and with this one we have no control.
Big brother rules, always has and always will... In fact its all SSDD.
Regards, Havanaman
I just returned from Havana after ironing out the casa problem. Things went perfect. TJ to Mex City to Havana. Not only do they not stamp American passports, they don't stamp anybodys. And they would not take my 20$.
The girls were all 18 to 25 and easyest way to meet them was right on the street in the day time. In Central Havana there are three main streets, the Prado and the Malacon(sea wall) to meet girls. Never pay more than 25$ and any one you see no matter how beautiful? Just ask her her name in spanish. If she answers, you're pretty much in. But do keep an eye on them at all times and don't go for the twosome because for sure one will be snooping and stealing. Bring cheap presents, panties, make up, dollar store stuff. They'll love it. They have nothing.
Oh, the casa problem is Fidel wont let the girls in the hotels. You could say its your girl friend but then your stuck with one. The casa is the only way to go, but you have to find one were the owners give you your own key. I did 11 different hot little mice in 16 days (keep a couple more than one day) and as soon as I figure out how to log photos on I will. You will be amazed.
I am I international bunny hunter home based in San Diego and the cuban girls are very beautful and are hot as any other countys have to offer, way cuter then most of the ones I've seen logged.
EDITOR's NOTE: Posting of this report was delayed pending revisions to add standard capitalization throughout the text. To avoid delays in future reports, please refrain from using the "chat room" style of writing with no capital lettering. Thanks!
This is my first time on this board, however I have been getting excellent information from all the "mongers" on this board for about 3 years. I have been to Cuba the summer of 2002 and 2003. I have no experiences in other countries, so I cannot make comparisons.(Brazil, DR,AR, etc.)
I have had great experiences, the first time, and even the second time, felt like a kid in a candy store. I got my casa particular reservation through the internet, however when I got to the airport, the driver convinced me go to another "casa" with some bullshit about my choice being bad. (Bad that he wasn't getting a commission). I ended up being happy about the choice. The following year, August 2003, I returned to the same casa, which I highly recommend.On my first trip, the casa owner volunteered to be my driver for $20.00 a day, driving my rental car, a bit much, but it was my "primera vez en cuba" as the cubans say, and I didn't know better. He did take me to the turist spots, Varadero,etc. And to Playas Giron, which is about 2.5 hours from Havana. (I highly recomend this place as there are some very nice private spots that you can take your chica to and do her "Blue Lagoon" style). I think I left my condom there between the bushes. Red trojan.If anybody doubts it I have the pictures to prove it).They also have a swimming hole called " La cueva de los peces". And a nice hut type restaurant, where you can get either a lobster plate or a "carne de cocodrilo" plate(for you Spanish Challenged guys) is Alligator meat. For about $15.00 a plate. That will be $30.00 including the chica.(I was hoping she ordered a cheese sandwich, but no luck).
Part 2 later, fellow adventurers. "Hasta la Vista" as my new Governor will say.
Good Evening,
I will be heading to Cuba April 1st for a few days and need your help desperately, the wife is away and I am off to play!
I am heading into this blindly in Cuba. I need a decent place to stay in Havana, with no restrictions on girls ages etc.. I want full in and out priviledges so to speak. I am used to staying in 5 star hotels such as Four Seasons and Ritz but obviously there isn't these properties there.
I understand from reading these posts that even if I chose a 5 star property I may not be able to bring the girls into the hotel.
I need advice fast and surely appreciate any direction you can offer.
I am not concerned with the prices etc..
I'm rich! hehehe!
Thanks in advance!
American_Pharao
03-30-04, 05:56
I Will be in Havana April 8th for 5 nights.
anybody wana share fun and cost? I see lots of good casa but 2 bedroom, it will be nice to have a naigbor with similar intersts.
Good report, Rabito, and you did Havana well for a first (and second) timer! Guys, I want to thank you for your casa recommendtions. I have a room reserved with Marta, so thanks again. I'll be there May 7-17, so if any of you others are coming let's hook up for a drink. Spock? Havanaman?
I wouldn't be too terribly concerned about traveling to Cuba. I mean, if the government really wanted to get the information on who is traveling to Cuba they could get it. Another thing that I found funny is I have been emailing with HHG (hitch hiker girl) from my Cuba trip. She is this granola girl American chick that we picked up. Nice enough girl but not the sharpest tool in the shed. She told me that coming back from Cuba she put on her customs form that she went to Mexico AND CUBA. They pulled her aside, searched her bags and she was on her way.
Not only that but she went on and on about how she loved Cuba and is going back soon. Did she get arrested? Nope. It was really stupid of her to do that but she didn't want to lie on her form. The US government knows there are a ton of people going there for vacation.
Going to Cuba via Mexico or Bahamas is quite easy and relatively hassle free. Good luck.
Saint
P.S. DocBill, if you want I'll email you some apartment info on Miramar. I'm not sure if you want to stay that far out though. I don't think you rent a car so that might be tough but I really loved Miramar and the casas we all stayed in were great.
Just to put some perspective on this issue: Not one person has ever been prosecuted and convicted for travelling to Cuba. Not one, in 45 years. So take it easy. If caught do not lie, because making false statements is another, more prosecutable crime altogether.
Saint, thanks for the offer, but I prefer staying in Vedado.
Super Tramp
03-31-04, 03:21
First want to say thanks to Saint for all his contributions to the many baords.
Here is someone caught that was seen first hand. I have been to Cuba with a friend that has been 15 times. In my experience before coming back they ask if you have been anywhere else besides bahamas. Of course we always say no.
Well this, not so sharp, girl ahead in line was at an Aids Conference in Havana and she says yes, Cuba. They say I'll ask you again anywhere else. She says yes I told you, Cuba, I an with the World Health Organization (WHO) and was in Cuba for a conference. The man gives her a long look, shakes his head and says you can't go to Cuba. She says oh but I am a French Citizen. He says, yes but you are living in the US with a Visa, I am taking your Visa, for conspiring. The girl goes hysterical and starts crying saying she lives with her Fiance in Atalanta what is she going to do. I could tell these guys don't want to bust anyone. But she was clearly breaking the law. While not an American Citizen he busted her right in front of us.
One of my 5 trips to Cuba thru Nassau resulted in my suitcase being searched for "hoof and mouth disease items." I never bring back cigars or other items from Cuba, but this time I brought back one can of "Tu Cola", Cuba's version of Coke. Fortunately the guy did not find it when looking thru my bag as it was wrapped inside my swim suit to keep it cool.
When they ask where I was I always say I stayed at the club Med on paradise island in the Bahamas.
Haven't been back for a year or so. Hope it is the same or better! Cheers!
Hello to all,
This is my first time posting on the board, but I have been in the scene for some time now. I just got back from Havana via Mexico City. I know of a travel agency in Mexico who booked my travel from Mexico to Havana. You can pay by AMEX or send a check. Although many have said that it is better to stay in a casa, I prefer the Melia Cohiba. I just then asked around for the casas particulares. Here is my report of Havana.
I just got back from Havana, and the street action on Calle 23 has decreased very much from previous years. I stayed three nights, from Thurs-Sun, and every night there was a lot of LE on the street corners. I don't remember the name of the cafeteria on the corner, but it is a nice place to have some beers and watch. The LE both on the streets and at the beach (Santa Maria) were checking identification of many, many people. As stated in previous posts, this must have led to the decline in girls. To all those wondering, there are still many girls out there, just decreased in the amount. Mocumbo's disco is now closed and a couple of the other popular one's.
Thursday night we decide to hit the area by Casa de la Musica and hotel Inglaterra. We pass up the Casa and it didn't seem to have much so we went in front of the hotel Inglatterra. As soon as we start walking around, in comes a guy with his sister. Let me tell you, this girl was amazing. College girl, 20yrs old, tight ass, beautiful body and nice tight skin. We walk together to a bar that he recommends (her brother) and have a drink. I believe the bar is called Dragones, or something like that. Small place, but I liked it because there was not a lot of tourists. The girl, Taiza, starts dancing doing salsa and man can she dance. My friend ends up going with her to a casa for about 80 plus the house's 20. I end up going in a taxi to Calle 23 and the intersection that is the same street as Habana Libre is on. There, about one block from that intersection, was about 6-8 girls there everyday after midnight. I took by picking of one, and brought her back. She was great. Ball sucking, BBBJ, and CIM all for a $50. I was happy and went back to the hotel. Fri and Sat. on the next post.
part 2-friday night.
due to the excellent recommendations of my fellow friends, i decided to try some of the restaurants they said. i went to palenque which was excellent. it was funny because it has excellent food with very reasonable prices, $4-10 and when i asked the hotel concierge, they hesitated and finally agreed it was a good place. we all know why they did not want to recommend the place, they want the gringos to go to expensive places that rip you off. afterwards we went to the local beach (maria) which was fairly busy. weather was great with strong breeze. the problem was, you would be out there for hours, and because of the breeze, you didn't realize you were baking in the sun. two to three days later, i was peeling! oh well. after a quick nap, it was back to the malecon searching. at the malecon, there was a lot of mulattas, but that is not my cup of tea. so we end up going to turquino, which is in the hotel habana libre. it was rather boring there, and it has quite changed since i last went to havana 2 yrs ago. nevertheless, i recognize one guy who hooked me up with a couple of girls last time. he goes by the name alexander, and he actually remembered me! he ends up having a friend with him, a nice petite, 22yrs old, with a small ass. i end up going with her to a casa and was able to do everything i wanted. we had bbbj and she had the best dsl you could imagine. i ended the session with a cof and was gone after about an 1 1/2 hrs. earlier i had gotten alexander's number, and he promised 3 girls for saturday night for my friend and i. now i would report to you how my friend did, but i really don't know because i was so caught up that friday night. lol.
Part 3-Saturday:
After a long Friday night, Saturday turned out to be even longer. We woke up earlier today, because we wanted to hit the beach early (Santa Maria). We get to the beach at about 11am and are greeted by the guy that rents chair. He then exclaims to his friend, what a good client I was and to take care of me. All this just because I had tipped him a $1 a day before. One thing about these people in Havana, is that they are the most appreciable people I have met. We lay out there for a couple of hours and hit the bar that serves the best chopped chicken sandwiches on the beach. They put some vinager dressing on it, and it tastes so good. On the way to the beach, you can't imagin how many girls are on the side of the road waiting for a ride to the beach. We saw a lot of those girls stroll in to the beach 1 to 2 hours after we arrived! Next time I am there, I will definitely rent a van so you can pile in the girls. After chatting to a couple of girls, we decide to get together later that night. That night we call the girls and decide to get together at the Havana Libre. Most hotels you are not allowed to bring in the locals, but at the Hotel Havana Libre you are allowed in the bar area and then you can bring them to the disco. While talking to the girls, we realize that we had promised Alexander that we would get together with his three girls. We had forgotten and now we were in a bind. What to do? There is only one solution, take the girls, have a session and go back to the hotel to meet Alexander. That is what we did, for $40 a piece. My experience was uneventful, just the norm. My friend though did get lucky with the girl doing Greek and CIM. Needless to say, I was very jealous when we compared stories. (I did get payback =)
We then proceeded to call Alexander and get together with the three girls. The girls were all nice looking and two of them were 8's and one was a 7. We headed to the Turquino, had a liter bottle of Stoli, and had a great time dancing and joking. Just as the night was ending, the girls turned up the heat. I was with two of them and my friend with the other. Now you can understand me when I say at that point in the night after many, many drinks, I really was very horny. I proceeded to take both girls to a casa, where they started negotiating. They had the nerve to ask for $150 each. Even though I was buzzing from the drinks, I settled on $100 each and proceeded to have a threesome. It was the best experience of my life. The girls did anything, I mean anything. BBBJ by both at the same time, ball sucking, they both went down on each other and we finished it off doing doggie while one was eating the other one out. To say the least, I was very satisfied. We said our goodbyes and were on our way. The next day was my flight to Mexico City and it was already 6am, so I called it quits.
To all those concerned, my two visits to the Turquino was not exactly what I wanted, but after going to the Casa de la Musica and seeing it dead, and hearing that Macumbo's and Club 1847 was closed, I had to settle for it. I hope this was informative for those who read this.
Yossarian 99
04-01-04, 06:24
came back last week after nine days in habana. that's a little too long to be in one city, but i had a buddy that had never visited before, so i did not want to drag him all over.
i was last there 8 months ago, and things have changed. la chorrera (the spout), which is that little fort next to the 1830 restaurant has turned totally pro. we arrived friday night, and the place was full of mongers and girls. we took two back to our casa and had a great time with them, but the gfe was lacking.
the girls that we found there last august were amateurs, a little shy, but hot looking. i miss those types. if anyone knows where that scene can be found in cuba these days, please share.
the 1830 restaurant next door was also a wild place. there were much more "normal" locals, guys and girls, and the cover was just $3. the key is to find the clubs with $5 cover or less. there'll be lots of amateurs and semi-pros there. cover at la chorrera next door was $5.
i would definitely go back to 1830 for amateur action. be careful when entering both places, though, as there were lots of locals hanging out in front ready to pick our wallets as we tried to sqeeze through the crowd to get to the gates.
these were the only two places we really visited for girls. last august i found a club near the capital building that i wanted to visit. this "club" was just a warehouse with a makeshift bar. when i walked in back then, 10 hot girls immediately attacked me. there must have been 50 girls and just 5 or six guys there that night. i'd say half of them were hot.
when i returned to the same spot this time, it had already been shut down. a victim of its own success. when i asked my taxi driver who was responsible for closing it, he smiled at me, put his hand on his chin and stroked it back and forth, signifying the "bearded one."
if you are into cuban jazz, definitely go to the jazz cafe, across the street from the melia cohiba hotel. the cover was $10 (cheap, when you consider the live jazz music), but that amount goes towards your food and drinks, so it's a great deal.
this trip, we stayed in vedado. i recommend this area if you don't plan to rent a car. everything was so close. our casa was literally one block away from the havana libre hotel. there is a club every block or two in this neighborhood, and on the weekends, they really rock with locals (well-off locals, since the cover is a relatively high $5). the clubs are usually small (100 people or less), but they have a good vibe, and you can walk from club to club.
if you are from the states, are flying home via cancun, and are bringing back lots of cigars (like me), you can avoid mexican customs by taking the aero caribe flight from habana to cancun with a 30 minute stop-over in cozumel.
some of you coming back into cancun straight from havana may have been harassed by mexican customs if you have more than one box of cigar. if you lie and tell them you have no cigars in your luggage, and they decide to search you, they will confirep001e all the boxes they find and let you keep just one.
however, if you come into cozumel first, they will make you de-plane and go through mexican immigration, but they leave your luggage on the plane, and you don't have to go through customs. i guess it's too much trouble for them to take your crap off the plane and put it through inspection. anyway, after about 20 minutes, they let you get back on the plane, and it takes off and lands in cancun 15 minutes later as a domestic flight. which means no more immigration check and no customs check. no one inspects your bags in cancun.
i'm not sure, but i think the mexican rule is that you can't take more than one box of cigars into mexico for fear that you may sell them for less than what the mexican merchants are selling them for. if this is the case, than i think it's ok to take back all the cigars you want from cuba, so long as you board another flight and leave cancun with those cigars. just don't leave the airport and go into town with them.
sorry for dwelling on the cigar issue, but it's my passion. i was in habana for the cigars, the people, and the culture as well as the mongering. i enjoyed every minute of the trip. i'll lament the day when all this changes (maybe in a couple years?).
vedado is such a lively area that all i had to do was sit on the steps in front of my building for a few minutes, and the girls just walk up. i met the girl below that way. she was only 18 and had a great body. can't wait to return.
recommendations:
go to 1830 restaurant (but visit the club in the back. the food is upscale, but i've never eaten there). watch your pockets.
go to la chorrea (the spout) next door. watch your pockets.
check out the jazz cafe. not a monger scene inside, just good cuban jazz. although there will be girls outside waiting to "harrass" you when you arrive and when you leave.
check out the night club in the meliha cohiba hotel across from the jazz cafe ($10 cover charge assures that only pros will be inside, and some waiting outside).
stay in a casa in vedado (near la rampa, if possible).
check out the small clubs that are all over vedado on the weekends.
bring with you a small boom box and some spanish language magazines. (i got this from this board, and it was a great idea).
bring with you some small parting gifts you can hand out to the girls.
that's it for now. thanks to all on this board who provided so much info.
Dark Knight
04-01-04, 23:56
Yoss,
I have to respectfully diasgree with the recommendation for the club in the Melia Cohiba.
I travelled to La Habana with my girlfriend. We flew from the states, and connected through Nassau. We stayed in Miramar at the Melia Habana. I prefer to stay in Miramar, as it is more upscale and I can get away from the craziness. Besides, there is good street action in Miramar.
I was pretty disappointed with the Habana Club. While the band was pretty good, the service was lacking and the environment was a bit bland / somewhat non-descript. It was evocative of an American version of a Cuban nightclub.
Now, we all know that these are not the reasons that mongers are flying to Cuba. But the girls were disappointing as well. The chicas there were not particularly attractive. If I compare it to a similar club in Rio (say, Help) or in Santo Domingo (say, Jaragua), the talent level was considerably inferior.
We went to playa Santa Maria, which is more of a locals' beach. the talent THERE was great. I saw tons of gorgeous girls on the beach, and when I wandered away from my gf , I was able to engage some women in pleasant conversation. I guess they don't meet too many young black men from America.
Is La Chorrera that place on the Malecon before you go down into the tunnel? We saw a very nice dance show there, and we had an enjoyable evening.
I've posted a couple of pics, but please PM me if you have a desire to see any more.
Dark Knight
04-01-04, 23:56
Chicas on the beach.
Dark Knight
04-01-04, 23:58
La Playa.
Member #1727
04-02-04, 05:07
Hi Everyone,
I have few questions would like to ask but I am afraid they were posted here before. So please forgive me.
I was in Cuba (Veradera & Havana) on vacation back in Oct 2001 but I didn't get any action because I was by myself, didn't speak a word of Spanish, didn't find any girls on the street. Worst, a local told me there was a "cleanup" in Havana few days before I got there :-(
I am thinking to go there again on April 10 with a friend. We will get one of those last-minute 7-day all-inclusive packages (I'm from Canada).
Here are my questions:
1 - Should I go to Veradera or Havana? It seems Veradera is "dead" now. Can we still can some actions there if sex is only a secondary priority?
2 - Is all-inclusive paackage a good idea? How could I bring girls back to the hotel? I remember there were "many eyes" at the lobby/front door.
3 - Can we "hire" a girl (or girls) as a "translators" and get her be with us all the time? Would this let her/them stay with us in the hotel?
4 - How to approach them?
5 - Last time when I was in Havana, I was chased my few guys asking for money and since I was just one person....i was kinda nervous. What's the best way to keep them off my back?
6 - Where can we find those Casas (hotel)?
Thanks a million! (I hope we will not be Lost in Cuba, haha)
C.
Member #1727, I'll try to briefly answer your questions and I also suggest you do a search/read the archives as they have been extensively dealt with here.
First of all,i f you're just looking for sex, go somewhere else. If you still want to go to Cuba and you really want to see Cuba then I would avoid Varadero. It really isn't Cuba, it's a resort of and for foreigners. My understanding is that there is virtually no action there anymore anyway.
You can't, anywhere, bring girls to a "hotel." Don't even bother trying, you'll waste your time. Some casa particulares (although much less these days) will allow you to bring girls in. Always ask first. Also be respectful and discreet if the situation calls for it, for example if you're staying with a family with kids.
You can probably hire a girl to translaste fairly easily. Just ask around. Start with the casa owner if it seems appropriate. And no, again, you won't be able to bring any Cuban to your hotel room, for any reason.
I have found since last year's crackdown on Cubans mingling with foreigners much less people hounding me for money. My guess is it won't be too big of a problem now. If it is a firm "No me moleste, por favor" usually does the trick. In any case it is almost certain that you will not be physically harrassed. They go to jail for a long time for that, and Cubans in general are not a violent people.
You can find Casas in Lonely Planet, Moon Handbook (much better overall than Lonely Planet), researching this board, or asking your cab driver when you get there. Don't be afraid to turn down one that doesn't meet your liking.
Hope this helps. Good luck.
I came back from a trip from Havanna & Varadero a while ago, I must admit that I had high expectations about meeting cuban girls for a nice time, at the beginning of the trip our travel guide even warned us male tourists that prostitutes would be all over us everywhere... yeah right, I wish it would have been like that. Sure there were quite nice girls around, but the heavy police presence in the Havanna downtown area was keeping things down. Obviously one place for street girls is Parque central across the Inglaterra Hotel, when I walked by in the middle of the night I could hear pssst sounds and some girls even openly flirted with me, but there were so many men around, too that it made the situation just too scary for me.
So, on a tuesday night I jumped into a cab, and wanted to go to either Havana Club disco or Cabaret Papa's, only to be told by the taxi driver that they were closed. He took me to a disco called 'Rio Club', and that place was dead. $10 for entrance, only to find the club practically empty, with some couples sitting there. The bartender said that usually there were girls there, obviously this was not my lucky night. On the way there I had spotted a place called 1830 on the way, so I decided to go there. On the way I spotted a couple of street girls, and after arriving at '1830' I rushed there. Two turned out to be transvestites, and one girl was not attractive enough. Later I spotted two girls on the Malecon nearby, they were better, so I picked one of them, she was a young-looking brunette who couldn't speak a single word of english. We took a cab and went to this casa where I had to pay $10 for the room and $40 for her, only had $30 left for her, and she settled for that. We had a good time, and I was kinda satisfied, she didn't feel like a pro, was clean and horny. Later I saw an even better looking girl there, but as I had run out of money, I had to walk back to my hotel.
So, Havanna was definetely a disappointment, but I was glad I got at least some fun because next I went to Varadero which was totally dead as far as sex for money is concerned, but I guess that came as no surprise.
AlLostInSpace13
04-03-04, 11:40
Hey Delusio, thank you for your post. Nice to know that HAV is still breathing. As we have learned, whenever going to Havana, always bring extra cash. Either for yourself, or to lend to your friends when they run out. I know for a fact, a friend of mine left Cuba with a bigger smile on his face because I loaned him $50 and he used that $ to land this gorgous blond. On the night before our flight back. She was so beautiful, I should have charged him interest...
El Cubanito
04-03-04, 15:12
Cuba is not cheap. I am leaving for Cuba on April 14 and will be there for two weeks and I am bringing cash and my Transcard in case I run out. With my Transcard I can access my funds in the United State via the state and make cash transfer to my Transcard. Alot of guys in the past have told me that the Transcard service is too expensive to use. I rather pay that 8 to 12 percent (THe rate is base on the amount you transfer. The higher the amount you transfer the lower the number get)Then to be stuck in Cuba with no money. After I leave Cuba on the 26th I will be in Blackbeard in Sosua, Dominican Rep for a 5 day test of Dominican Republic. I have not been in DR in 6 years or since I got divorce from my ex. I will post reports of Cuba and DR.
El Cubanito
El Cubanito
04-03-04, 15:17
AlLostInSpace13,
Cuba must be contagious in the way tourist help other tourist. I remember being stuck in Cuba on one of the very first trips that I went and having no money. My $20 tax money to leave Cuba somehow I lost it and they told me that I could not leave Cuba without paying this in Cash. I told the official that the only thing that I had was my credit card. Well this American guy who was behind me in the line overheard what was going on and he lend me the $20 until I we got to Miami. I pay him as soon as we got to a ATM in Miami Airport. Man was I scared.
El Cubanito
Havana Moon
04-03-04, 18:20
Doc Bill.
What are you doing on Cuba whithout having sex? For me it´s the paradise for that kind of art. Of course you have to know about cat and rat- play whith the Fidels army. But the girls still are everywhere, especially in the weekends whwen they must to earns some extra money around the Central Park, Obisbo and in front of Inglaterra where I always are staying in a girlfriendly particular with my own key.
Who said I'm not having sex? I have a girlfriend there and it's nonstop sex from the moment I arrive! If I did not have her, I would definitely pick other places to go for mongering. I'm not saying that girls aren't available, but it has become too big of a hassle. If you've been there before the crackdown a couple of years ago you'd know what I mean. It's a lot easier and cheaper in other countries. As Saint has pointed out, Cuba is a great country to visit for the people and the culture, but not for this "hobby."
I can vouch for Doc, his girl friend is my girlfriend also.
I have the pics to prove it :-)
Member #4447
04-05-04, 09:14
Can anyone help me with a good privat casa in Havana. I want to stay in Havana Bieja but other alternativ is ok. I am a swedish guy who will stay in Havana for a week and after that go to to Santiago and I need a casa there too. Please help me. The casas need to be guest friendly.
Thanks
Havana Moon
04-05-04, 19:53
DocBill,
It's like day and night to go to Cuba GFE- ing or mongering. I have heard and red about this crackdowns every year since my first trip in -97. And of course it´s true, but altough the chicas still are whisperings to you wherever you go or sit down.
I agree whith you that it´s much more easier to pick up a BG and pay BF in Thailand (where I recently come back from five weeks mogering) and some other asia countries, but it´s definitly not so exciting and charming as it is on Cuba. And in my opinion they like the acts much more as well. But where is it cheaper? I don´t complain when the rates are between $10 de una mas juventud y hermosa chicas de Nueva Gerona, Baracoa y Cienfuegos - to $100 for a ballerina de Tropicana. Thailand is cheap - but not cheaper.
Even sorry to say, I`m not going to Cuba for it´s culture, food or even the people as following you all the time and asking where you come from, but just for this "hobby".
Excuse for language, as you understand, english is not my first or even second language.
Havana Moon
04-05-04, 19:56
Klamydia.
You've got a mail on a casa particular in Vieja.
Johnny Diver
04-10-04, 20:10
Doc Bill wrote:
"Just to put some perspective on this issue: Not one person has ever been prosecuted and convicted for travelling to Cuba. Not one, in 45 years. So take it easy. If caught do not lie, because making false statements is another, more prosecutable crime altogether."
I know this will start something on the board, but I am a lawyer that deals with people that have been interdicted coming back from Cuba. There are three Administrative Law Judges now hearing cases in Washington, but as Doc Bill has said no people have been criminally prosecuted. This is true. The government has turned these violations into an administrative fine and not a criminal issue. At the present time it is approximately $1,875.00 to settle the issue with the Office of Foreign Asset Control. If you demand a hearing the OFAC has judges to hear the cases. Please have a great time in Cuba as I love the place too but make sure you have no incriminating things in your luggage when returning to the US.
Thanks for the info, Johnny! Last I heard, one could simply ignore the fine since there was no system in place for hearing cases. Apparently, if you're right, the Bushies have changed all that. What about the group of attorneys, I think they're called Lawyers Without Walls or something like that. Are they involved in this? I'd also like to know if you know how many people, or better yet what percentage of those caught actually end up being forced to (not volunteer to) pay the fine.
I'm going through Cancun in a few weeks. Do I need to worry? You guys who've gone this way, how do you explain the Mexican entry & exit stamps on your passport? If from the US, can you just use a driver's license?
One final question: I'm going to be in Cancun for about eight hours. Is there anything to do there in that time?
Thanks!
DOC BILL:
You know, Jonny Diver can't say too much about who he is or what group he may be with since as an attorney (officer of the court), he is not allowed to encourage anyone violating the law.
JOHNNY DIVER:
Isn't it true that 99% of the persons "caught" caused their own problems by either opening their mouths when they didn't have to (or simply refuse to answer) or were stupid enough to keep evidence of being in Cuba such as ticket stubs in their names?
The OFAC is not the IRS which is similar to the SS and KGB which were laws unto themselves. The OFAC must still prove a prima facia case (Right J.D?) before the victim has to say anything.
So enjoy, sanatize when returning and keep your trap shut.
Just my 2 pesos worth.
Spock.
I just got back from a 9-night trip to Havana. This was my first trip alone anywhere for the possibility of meeting women for some casual mongering. I arrived real late the first night so no action. I did manage to get laid every night the rest of my trip by 5 different girls. I was surprised how well I did. These numbers are probably unimpressive to the hardcore mongers but I was quite satisfied.
I met all my girls just walking around the Malecon or La Rampa Ave. There weren’t a lot of girls but then again there weren’t a lot of mongers in my opinion. I keep hearing about the good old days. I wasn’t in the hobby back then but I can just imagine the Malecon from Vedado to Old Havana lined up with around 100 beautiful Cuban girls all dressed really sexy just sitting there waiting. Now for example on a Monday to Thursday between 9:00 to 10:00pm on the Malecon I saw maybe 5 to 8. Usually the same ones every night. However things seemed to pick up on the weekend.
One of the things I really loved about Cuban was the hunting, the sneaking around, meeting in dark alley ways, using hand signals etc. It was very exiting. I would walk by a girl and make eye contact and say Holla. Then I would keep walking and look back. I would keep looking back until she new I was interested. Then I would head towards an area were there weren’t any police. There are tons of little alley ways all along the Malecon to meet and talk. It’s a great feeling when your walking and you look back and you see the girl following you. It kind of reminded me of going fishing.
I planned to go to some clubs but didn’t go to any. Just wasn’t comfortable going alone and I was told they would be dead on weekdays anyway. Also it was so dam hot. Putting on long pants and stepping outside within a few minutes I was sweating like a pig. I would have liked to have learned more about club mongering. Whether that is where the girls hang out these days and whether it is safer than street walking for the girls. If it is safer I would make more of an effort to go to the clubs in the future.
The police were everywhere but they just seem to stand in one spot. I never see them doing any real scouting or patrolling. They do seem friendly with a lot of the working girls. I seen them asking a lot of guys for I.D. but don’t think I saw them asking to many girls. I always made it clear to the girls that I met that I would do what needed to be done to keep them from getting into trouble. They were cautious but didn’t seem overly concerned. This is a subject that makes me question whether I should be even going to Cuba at all to monger. I tried talking a lot to the girls to get their take on the situation. It seems if they are from the Havana area and they don’t have a record they are fairly relaxed. They will even try and hold your hand while walking around but I didn’t feel comfortable with this. I must say the police were fairly nice to me. I committed several traffic offences while mountain biking but was never given a ticket or asked for a bribe.
I always here people say they love Cuba because of the people. Sure, there were people I thought were nice and honest: my casa owners, the guy who rented me my bicycle, my Spanish teacher, the staff at my favorite restaurant Siette Mares, but I honestly still think there were a lot of Cubans who only wanted to swindle me any way they could. As far as the girls were concerned, man do I have a lot to learn. With the 18 and 19 year old girl I met I knew were I stood. Sure they wanted me for the money but they still seemed to enjoy being with me and having sex. I’m 40 but the Cubans were guessing I was in my late 20’s. I’m probably considered at least OK looking and I am in fairly good physical shape. When the 19 year old gave me her number and said I could call her the next day, I knew it was only because I was an easy gig for her and she could do so much worse. I'm not repulsive looking, I smell good, and I had a nice, safe, clean casa to hang out in. Now the 22, 25 and 26 year girls I met were a different story. I have to say I kind of enjoyed their company a bit more. They were very affectionate. The way they looked at me had me thinking they kind of liked me. They would ask more personal questions like if I had a girl friend in Cuba or back home. I wonder if they were just playing me to get another gig? Probably. I mean mongers were pretty scarce and I was probably considered a good catch. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not looking to get married or have a serious relationship. I’m realistic. I would be happy with a girl who likes me say 50% for the money and 50% for me just the way I liked some of the girls 50% for them and 50% for the sex. In Cuba I would consider that the start of a dream relationship.
In conclusion I am kind of thinking about an August trip. Not sure. I mean I haven’t even tried the clubs, Old Havana the Prado/Parque central strip. Maybe an 18-19 year old to start for a simple one nighter. Then I wouldn’t mind meeting a nice older girl, maybe 25 to actually go out on a date to a restaurant or a club and maybe hang out for the week. Unfortunately I’m not sure this is even possible anymore. But I have no desire to go anywhere else right now. I like the Cuban women.
Havanaman, sorry I didn’t get to meet you. They changed my casa at the last minute so the info I sent you was void. Not sure if you tried to contact me. Maybe another time. Hope you had a good trip.
I have a question for you guys with Cuban girlfriends. Just wondering if you were once a customer of theirs or do you look for girlfriends who don't do tricks. Thanks.
Organicgrowth
04-13-04, 18:49
Dran Reb,
Nice report, and an enjoyable read. Yes I was in Havana at the same time as you, and I did call number you gave, but they said they did not have any English speaking guests… Next time Bro!
You are very right in what you report about mongering the police. For me the whole hunt is part of this Cuban experience; maybe it’s the youth in me trying to get more adventurous, but it is a buzz no less. Having said this, other readers must remember what I and other reporters (e.g. DocBill et al) have said in the past if you are going for the sole reason of mongering go somewhere else (I recommend BA, Brazil or DR).
Unlike in previous visits this one for me was unusual in that I spent 90% of my time with one chica. Yes indeed, one chica. The remaining 10% was with the niece of the landlady of the casa I was staying in… She does not normally charge for play, but we were both drunk and I said how lovely she looked and the next thing I know is I find it difficult to speak because she has her tongue in my mouth. Cost me nothing other than a couple of bottles of hotel shampoo (you know the free mini-bottles), some lip-stick intended for my chica and some mini-hotel soap. No I’m not a cheapskate I just happen to keep the free stuff form hotels! The $10, in single bills was also anice gift. Anyway it was an enjoyable time: BBBJ + CIM, followed by DATY (we should always return the favour), then some real nice back-door pleasure.
I shit myself the next day when my chica met her. But I had nothing to worry about. This girl was not going to upset her aunts illegal casa situation with a scene between us.
I’m already planning my return trip. This time for some fresh chicas: yes indeed the trial continues.
Dran Reb, as to your question: Please refer to my previous reports about the trial I have got going: it yields free, and I do mean FREE chica action. You can always interplay some pay-for-play action into this.
Regards,
Havanaman
Havanaman, you're becoming all-too-well "Our Man in Havana!" For anyone, I'll be in Havana May 7-17 if you want to hook up. If my girlfriend behaves herself I'll be with her the whole time; if she doesn't I'm going to town!
Again, if someone could answer my questions about traveling through Cancun (Saint?):
1) How do you get around or explain the Mexican exit/entry stams on your passport when returning to the US, or can one just use their US driver's license?
2) Since I'll be stuck in Cancun for about eight hours, is there anything I can do there besides sit in the airport?
Thanks guys
Johnny Diver
04-15-04, 00:48
Talosian said:
"The OFAC is not the IRS which is similar to the SS and KGB which were laws unto themselves. The OFAC must still prove a prima facia case (Right J.D?) before the victim has to say anything."
The big problem is that this is not a criminal offense only a civil one. You have to prove that you did not go. Or you did go with a proper license. Be very careful as the OFAC is issuing prepenalty notices to people that they have very little information on. Once that is issued you have to demand a hearing and then negotiate. You have to remember this is not a criminal issue where the level is beyond a reasonable doubt. It is only a proponderence of the evidence level! Totally different! I love Cuba and the people there! I have friends that I miss but until this is sorted out I think I am going to the DR! or CR!
Doc Bill wrote
"I'd also like to know if you know how many people, or better yet what percentage of those caught actually end up being forced to (not volunteer to) pay the fine."
To get an idea of who has been fined please go to the Office of Foreign Asset control that is part of the Treasury Department website. They do list the names of people that have been fined or negotiated a settlement on the site. I am linked to it at my office and I keep a close eye on it. I miss Cuba and my friends. All of you can make a difference! Vote and write your Congressmen! Also join some of the cuba web groups that help you monitor whats going on!
Be careful!
Organicgrowth
04-15-04, 19:24
Gentlemen,
I live in Europe, so I am not too hot on the laws of the USA, however I did read many years ago, and indeed more recently, that the issue of travel and Cuba is not one of going but one of spending money ~ specifically the greenback. Am I mistaken here?
If I am, then sorry.
If I am not, then anyone paying for a ticket in the USA to MEX, then paying in MEX for Cuba will not have broken any laws. Thus, if asked, one might openly say that one has visited Cuba, but not spent a dime. “I lived with my friends their, they paid for everything. I’m innocent until PROVEN guilty. Do you have any proof…” Is this being too naïve or would it need serious brass balls?
Doc Bill: thank you for your kind words: I’m sure my profile fits what Graham Green was thinking about when he started his story (well, that and a couple of extra pounds!). Sadly, work has to be done… I’m already planning another trip but not hat soon: I’ll keep you posted and we might coordinate a visit perhaps. Also sorry I can’t comment on the entry-exit stamp from MEX: that’s a new one for me…
Regards,
Havanaman
Organicgrowth
04-16-04, 11:21
Gentlemen,
Maybe I was being a little naïve, I just learned from the British Medical Journal:
http://bmj.com/cgi/content/full/328/7445/914-a?etoc
that the “Administration” prevented a large group of medics (70)attending a world famous academic conference in Havana.
Get this, the grounds for refusal were that attendance at such academic conferences did not constitute a valid reason to go to Cuba. Those in the world of medicine know that Cuba has one of the highest standards of medicine and research on the planet (specifically neurology and surgery), albeit a lack of medication (…and we all know why that is…).
If anyone from the so called “Administration” is reading this: then GET A GRIP on reality. Research conferences are the best forum for the sharing of ideas and experiences in medicine i.e. the foundation of scientific communication. Perhaps if politicians communicated more we would not be in this sorry state.
Anger vented, I would exhort my USA brothers to let their feelings be felt by November…
Regards,
Havanaman
I note below where it is said in an administrative hearing you will be liable wher it is found by the "proponderence of the evidence." The operative word here is "EVIDENCE!l"
If you keep your mouth shut (what any attorney would tell you in this case) and you have sanitized yourself of paperwork, what is the "evidence" against you? I say again, most people are sunk by either their own words (coming from their open mouth) or some paperwork they retain. Talk too much or don't clean up after yourself paperwise, and you will give the OFAC their evidence.
Anyone disagree?
Enjoy.
Spock
Organicgrowth
04-18-04, 12:08
Talosian,
I Agree 100%. The burden of proof is at the doors of the OFAC. Like you said, dump all the associated, expired and now useless paperwork in any airport trash bin, and fly stress-free.
One doubt: If more people use the "where is your evidence?" argument, maybe the "Administration" will find other means to trap people. Maybe even actually start making examples of some people.
Best thing is probably to stick with getting in and out of Cuba with as low a profile as possible. Some of my friends are going via Canada: longer haul if you live in the far south or west USA, but safe nontheless.
Regards, Havanaman
I hate to bust your bubble, guys, but they don't need evidence. The actual law is against spending money there, and the burden of proof is on you, not them, to prove that you were "fully hosted," which is near impossible. I think our lawyer friend can attest to this as well.
I'm going through Cancun; Can I just use my license (American) to get in and out of Mexico? Anybody who's gone through Cancun had any problems or heard of any?
On a recent trip to Cuba, I made sure that I got my (European) passport stamped by immigration guy in Havana airport upon arrival. He seemed a bit surprised, but after the indescribably rude way in which I'd been treated by a bunch of ignorant cops in Newark "Liberty" airport (pass me the sick bag, please), a few days before, I was thouroughly hacked off with US immigration and in no mood to co-operate. Sad to say, on return through MIA, the official didn't even notice the stamp. Oh well, one small blow for freedom went wide...
For all you good folks with US passports, I'd be real careful -- I heard some stories about some guys being hung out to dry by the administration upon their return to mainland USA.
BTW, I bought my ticket through Nash travel in Toronto and can recommend them and their services -- they were friendly, very helpful and right on the button with everything.
Nash is ok, but one of the girls that works there is rude. Use the Ukrainian guy. They have a hard time making connections, this is the difficult thing. Plus they cannot book Cubana directly. They must make a call and wait for a day or two until Cubana calls them back. So you give Nash a couple of days when you want to go and then see what they can get for you. Then you book your connecting flights and hope there is a seat at a reasonable cost to where you connect to Cubana. Bush is an asshole, #1 world terrorist and worse than Fidel to make people's travel so difficult.
Doc Bill;
You are right about the fully hosted "problem" however before it even gets there they need to show you were in Cuba. If you don't have anything to ndicate being there and don't say anything, there is little chance of getting busted.
Cancun seems to be the best route. I know one guy who made a (non-confirmed) reservation at a Cancun hotel and then printed out the "confirmation" page and had it ready in case he was asked, which he never was.
And if asked where you were, it's always good to say you were with your friend "Jose Cuervo" or Sr. Frog and smile.
My two pesos worth.
Spock.
Thanks, Spock! I guess the Che Guevara t-shirts will have to wait. Actually, do you know the name of a hotel in Cancun I can say I stayed at? The only other issue I'm a little paranoid about is the Mexican entry/exit stamps on my passport when going to/from Cuba. How to explain that, if asked?
At any rate, I'm going, May 7-17. Anyone else?
AlLostInSpace13
04-22-04, 06:41
Hello, will anyone be in Havana next week? Care to meet up and combat together? I watch your back and you watch mine.
Lankan_Lover
04-22-04, 12:29
Hi all,
I am going to Havana tomorrow morning (April 23) for 11 days.
So like many of the older and experienced mongers, I am counting the hours to be released from the Sex Prison. I have about 36 hours left.
Hi there fellow mongers,
I am currently living in Canada and I am planning on visiting Cuba this year for the first time,can anyone point me in the right direction as to where is the best place to go for chicas as I will only have a week and want to maximise my time without doing to much guesswork,any information would be much appreciated.
Thanks to all and safe and happy mongering..........:)
Montrealer
04-24-04, 23:09
Is it true that some chicas will accept hosiery, and in return "be with you" all night? I will be going to Varadero, and if this is the case, then I will be doing some "shopping" before I leave.
EarlBrowder
04-26-04, 00:24
You can take down the whole Hanes factory and you won't get laid in Varadero, except maybe by some vacationing Canadian housefrau. It's a dead zone.
Light out for La Habana at the first opportunity. I don't know any chicas that will sleep with you for hosiery, but if you're a decent guy you'll find some chicas that will sleep with you and appreciate the hosiery.
I have been to Cuba many times, although with a treasury license. I have not been as much the past few years because there are other places easier for mongering and Cuba has just lost the appeal for me.
I agree with sanitizing the paper work. "Lose" your passport in Mexico and go back through with a birth certificate and DL. There is one piece of evidence OFAC can use, which is more difficult to sanitize. Customs and foreign governments, including Cuba, can share information on a flight's manifest, including names and passport numbers. This is being done to fight drugs and terrorism. Chances are OFAC will not go to the trouble, but the information is certainly out there.
Go and have fun. I wouldn't sweat it at all.
Snook
Organicgrowth
04-26-04, 17:09
Montrealer,
In general the answer is yes. However it is by no means restricted to an single item: all cosmetic type products are welcome. I must tell you however that its not as simple as it sounds, obviously you need to be reasonably as a man, be ready to be the gentleman etc… and may still need to pay something.
As to your going to Varadero, forget the above. Locals seen to be fraternising with tourist risk a lot and so, even if you come across any genuine locals (!) it is going to be hard mongering. For pay for play, I have no doubts that every master here will tell you the same: Varadero is NOT the place to go. Venture into Havana for a couple of days (a few hours by taxi particular, cost about $50 US, cheaper if you can negotiate) and your mongering will be made a little easier.
Please remember what knowledgeable masters like DocBill and others have said in the past: Cuba is not a good place for mongering. Reading past reports will also tell you what you need to take, specific gift wise.
Best wishes, Havanaman
And by the way, if you haven't noticed, Cubanas don't wear stockings. With legs like that they don't need to!
Here a girl I met in 2002 in Havanna.
El Cubanito
04-27-04, 21:24
Hi DocBill,
I just came back from Cuba on April 21. Doc, I really would like to meet you in Havana on your May Trip. I plan on going from May28 to June 16. Will you be available. Talosian, I try two times to bring the pic to your girlfriend house but nobody was around. I try to bring the picture on April 14 at about 5:00 PM when I landed in Havana and on Tuesday night on April 13. Both times your girl or family was not around. Talosian, I will be going next month to Cuba again. I can return the pic to you or will you want me to bring them with me when I go back to Cuba. Please PM and let me know. Talosian, here is a pic of something very sweet that you miss on this trip. Boy, was she sweet!
El Cubanito
PS I met her in cienfuego. Very sweet girl in Bed
El Cubanito
04-27-04, 21:25
Hi,
Here is another pic of same girl later on that night.
Lankan_Lover
04-28-04, 20:22
I am in Santiago de Cuba now. I landed in Havana on April 23rd. I stayed in Havana for 3 nights. I would say that quality and quantity of the girls in Havana have gone down. Any way I got laid on the first three nights in Havana. The second night was the most memorable with a sweet 19 year old girl from Camaguey. On the last night in Havana, while infront of the La Chorrea, a bunch of policias came to the location suddenly and started to ask for the ID of the girls and the pimps. Nobody was arrested. I left the place for the old Havana, where all the girls were hard core pros. Fouth day, I took the overnight bus to Santiago.
Santiago is the place to be. There is no police harassment here.
Last night I had the best sex in my 28 year old life with a girl 4 years younger than me. We walked around the old Santiago, No problem with the police. We went to the Casa de Musica.
She provided me with the sex, love and affection more than a wife or gril friend could offer. I am probably meeting her tonight. Life is good.
Hi guys,
I am going to Cuba for the first time ever within the next four months. The problem is, I don't know when I should go. Logic suggests May, although I'll have to delay starting my new job, which will be a big hassle. The time I am truly free for a while is late August. However, I have no doubt that it will be incredibly hot then. What's your advice?
Thanks,
Syl
Organicgrowth
04-29-04, 11:27
Sylvan,
It's all about what you are used to / where you are from. I live in Europe and its mostly cold here, so the heat of Cuba for me is a blessing. However even I can not enjoy the “hot as hell” August sun. My best times have always been in December, Jan, Feb, March, April. The days are excellent and the nights a little cooler: you might need a jacket when on the seaward side (malecon etc…). You also should get a place with AC.
I personally would want to go ASAP, but then I know the place! In the summer there are more tourists and thus more hard-core chicas; that’s something I do not like. However, a real gift is that in the season, you can get lots of very nice non-pro action from chicas who come to Havana from far and wide to make a few $$.
Your decision is your own regarding the job hassle, however consider this: go to Havana ASAP, enjoy this time and then take another week off when you can go again (having worked for a few months) and this time knowing what is what and where is where etc…
All the best.
Regards, Havanaman
El Cubanito
04-29-04, 13:56
Sylvan,
August is also the start of hurricane season in Cuba. I really would recommend you go in May. It is the low season and there are not that many tourist in Cuba. So you will have your pick of the casa particular in Cuba. What part of Cuba are you intersted in going to Havana, Holguin, Santiago, Camaguey, Trinidad or Cienfuegos? Each part has a different types of girls.
El Cubanito
El Cubanito
04-29-04, 14:00
Sylvan and Havanaman,
If you think Havana is hot in July and August, go to the East of Cuba that is when this part of the country really gets Hots.
El Cubanito
Cuba is always hot, it doesn't matter when you go! In terms of weather, however, I would avoid the months of July and August, especially if you're planning to visit the east (Santiago). The weather is tolerable the rest of the year (Stockings, Jesus Christ!).
As I've said, I'm off next week, so if any of you guys need any deliveries made I'll be glad to help.
El Cubanito
04-30-04, 15:56
Santiago is brutally hot during the months of July and August. Last year I stay in Santiago from July to September and man was it Hot. Brutally Hot. I had alot of fun though.
I went to Baracoa, Hoguin and Manzanillo (If you think Santiago is Hot this place is brutal. More Humid then Hell!)
If you like heat then July and August is for you in Santiago.
Or I almost forgot that is the tourist season in Cuba also and every casa is occupied. You only get the bad one because all of the good ones are taken.
El Cubanito
Interesting story (link below), about how the US Treasury Dept. (OFAC) spends a lot more resources hunting down Americans traveling to Cuba than terrorists.
"More Agents To Track Castro Than Bin Laden"
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A55131-2004Apr29.html
El Cubanito
05-06-04, 18:44
Hey Doc,
Have a Great trip, to bad I will not be able to hook up with you. If you prolong your stay I will be able to see you.
El Cubanito
bluedrinker
05-08-04, 07:50
Ten days in Havana.
I spent a long ten days in Havana at the end of April. All I have to say is that the weather is wonderful this time of year, not too hot and not too humid. The search for prime ladies however is a different story. It certainly pays to be a regular and have several ladies available any day a phone call away. The gems are still out there, but not easy to find as they were over the holidays. There has obviously been a crackdown on chicas from the provinces as the only ones available are from Havana. Chorrera is dead, The Johny is dead, Rosalia is still closed, The Casa de la Musica is completely dead. Turquino is closed to Cubans as is the pool at Marina Hemingway. Papas is closed. The indoor disco at Chevere is the new chica hangout, but is small, crowded, and lacking in good talent. Cafe Cantante and Delirio Habanero at the Teatro National are now chica spots, but not like the good old days. Maybe things will pick up after schools out! China town was also dead by the way. Times have obviously been tough the last few months. Still a beautiful country but things are not getting any easier. Other spots are probably better for mongering, especially if you are new to the city/country.
For those of you knowing both, and Chicas in mind only - Cuba or DR?
Thanks,
S.
S
Just asked El Cubanito ...
Tony Pilot
05-10-04, 01:28
Hi guys,
I lived in Cuba almost one year, and I have been in the past 6 years more then 30 times.
I think I know cuba very well and I think there is no better country (and I have been in many places) then Cuba for nice and good sex, and not only that, the nice thing in cuba, is that you can find easily a “jinetera” which will behaviour exactly like your girlfriend.
I would like to tell you , that it’s obvious that the girl comes with you for the money, but the way she “pretend she is not “and the way she can fake it it’s so delicious which you will have an amazing time.
I think it’s very stupid go in touristy places and get a prostitute which will ask you between 50 and 100 dollars, it’s not the right way to live cuba, you don’t need that.
In Cuba, the first rule, is always get a casa particular, there are many very comfortable at 30 dollars and if you good even 20.
If you go in hotel you cannot appreciate the real Cuba, and plus you will be limited in the number of girls which you could bring up, and most of the time you need to tip the door guy about 20 dollars.
Why do that? Why spent all this money and the girl need to leave before morning? You could spent a beautiful night with no rush in a nice house and no extra tipping.
The cost of the girl if you know where to go, it’s about 20 dollars a night, this is the maximum which you need to pay, if she is really good, and you don’t mind you can tip her extra, if she was really good.
To achieve this goal avoid f all the touristy places and just go in Cuban bar and club, which you pay maximum 1 or 2 dollars and not 5 or 10!
In Habana it’s essential to have a car.
I usually suggest a particular, a private taxi 24 hours, I pay 30 dollars a day fuel included with unlimited miles, a rent car will cost you 50 or 60 plus fuel and the reason of a personal driver it’s much more then saving money believe me.
Obviously you need to have somebody you can trust, I have this friend for about 6 years now, he pick me up at airport and take me trough all my holiday can go everywhere, I am always safe, and I am able to pick up any girl I want on the street, with no money most of the times I don’t need to pay 100 dollars!
That was all thank to him and his advise, of course now I am like a Cuban and I can do anything but all my knowledge and my experience came from this friendship.
I sent a lot of friends to alexy (this is his name) if you guys need any help with Cuba just ask I will love to help you out , anything you need with Cuba, house, girls, or taxi, just contact me I will be back in agost for a month if you are around let me know I have some nice mulatta you might like, hehe.
This forum it’s very nice I discovered last year and was very helpful for my travel in Poland, Lithuania and Estonia, I will try to post more often and contribute as much as I can, you guys are fantastic source on information, that’s why today I decide to contribute as well.
My email is [Email Address deleted by Admin]
I am Italian, but I leave in England and a bit everywhere.
See you
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Tony Pilot
05-10-04, 01:37
I don't think Italian fucked up anything in Cuba, I think simply which are the one that more have an undestanding of the situation, becouse of the similarity in the culture and the language, most Italians speak Spanish.
Be carefull with the guide most of them are porfessional jinetero, and if they are not known they will make money on anything I will do, from the house to the beer which you buy in any bar of L'habana.
If you need a very good house with a trustable landlord I can give the address of the villa where I go, when of course I am not there. It's a nice 3 floor villa, on the sea for 30 dollars a day, you can get food if you want and a maid 24hours a day.
My email is [Email Address deleted by Admin]
See you.
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El Colorado
05-10-04, 19:44
Tony Pilot - Thanks for a great report. I too have been to Cuba over 30 times, but it spans the last 9 years. I remember the good old days before the repression.
I would be interested in checking out the villa you spoke about. Is it a licensed casa particular? What is the address and the landlord's name. Does he have a phone number and/or e-mail address?
Thanks
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