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90 Miles and a World Away · Day 9 · Havana
Our last day in Cuba! How did time escape me? We had tasks to accomplish this morning. We walked a few torn-up streets to Hotel Nacional to exchange a little more Euros for CUCs, and to purchase our Cuban cigars. Our research was unwavering in that if we wanted “authentic Cuban cigars” we needed to purchase…
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Purchasing Fresh Seafood on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
There’s something different about seafood on Anna Maria Island. Maybe it’s the salty air drifting in from the Gulf, the shrimp boats anchored just offshore, or the quiet rhythm of a working fishing village that still feels untouched by time. Here, fresh isn’t a marketing word, it often means caught that morning. Whether you’re planning…
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90 Miles and a World Away · Day 8 · Havana
Good morning Cuba! The girls and I started the day with our usual stop at our mercado for fritas. Then, we continued to Mimita’s house where we were greeted with our usual café and a surprise treat of malanga fritas. We had developed new traditions. We presented Mimita with a gift from my friend, a computer tablet. …
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Best Times to Visit Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Anna Maria Island has a warm, beach-friendly climate year-round, but each season brings its own character. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions, summers are hot and wonderfully tropical, and winters are mild and sunny. Whenever you visit, there’s something worth showing up for. For everything you can do once you’re on the water,…
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Best Pizza on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Anna Maria Island may be known for fresh seafood, but it’s also home to some seriously good pizza. Whether you’re craving a classic slice after a long beach day, a wood-fired pie paired with wine, or a casual family dinner, the island delivers a surprising variety from no-frills neighborhood spots to elevated Italian dining experiences.…
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90 Miles and a World Away · Day 7 · Havana
We awoke to a leisurely morning…my favorite kind of morning. To our local breakfast spot for eggs, toast and coffee, we went with coconut milk in tow. It was our third time to Café Mamaine. Then we walked to our local mercado to enjoy some fritas. We arrived at Mimita’s where she had a stack…







