No problems getting into the country. I was surprised to see most of the women security agents were wearing fishnet stockings! That's a new twist. I changed some money at a rate of $1 = .87 CUC (Convertibles Cubanos) even though it is pegged to the dollar. We get hit with a big tax.

The taxi driver who drove me the 30 minutes into town told me everything here is tranquilo, and it does seem to be. I arrived earlier than expected and my room was not ready. Zaria, the hostess, was very apologetic, but I wasn't too bothered. I sat and looked at LP for a bit to map out plans for my visit. Zaria offered me a delicious cup of coffee while I waited.

Once I got into my room, I got my stuff sorted out and went out for a walk. I started by the fort and then went along the Malecón for a few blocks. The waves were crashing over the wall.

I cut back towards Havana Vieja and walked down Paseo Jose Martí. There are tons of really worn and crumbling buildings here, as well as some nicely restored ones. I took some photos and felt totally comfortable with my camera out. There are tourists here, but not in crazy numbers. There are lots of locals out, sitting and shooting the breeze, playing chess, etc.