Adios Cuba, Hola Guatemala

Cuba was full of joy, crowds, heartfelt smiles, chit chats, music, "hola chicita's", "salsa tonight?'s", "amor's", strong cocktails, muscly men, shakira type bums, vivid colours, Chevrolet's, flirtations, sugar, a lot of sugar and the smell of cigar, rum, rubbish, exhaust fumes and hog roast mixed with cheap deodorant and shampoo. And strangely so safe and secure even in the dark alleyways. There was, though, never enough fruit, vegetable or water; toilet roll, soap or clean air; wifi, comfort or stillness. Cuba was like living in the past with occasional trips to the future. No running water in this house but, wait, I can Skype home in the park.

Now in Antigua Guatemala. I see abundance of fruit in every corner. I want to attack. So fresh and juicy. There is a little shop filled with goodies in every corner. Cobbled roads, artisan chocolate, French bakeries and coffee shops. Fancy restaurants and smoothie bars. Even veggie restaurants! Streets are clean and way calmer than Cuba. Lots of craft stalls and bazaars. Spas and yoga studios. It almost feels like being back in Europe. I love looking around as the town's surrounded by glorious mountains. It's beautiful. I'm enjoying this chilled atmosphere and having alternatives but one part of me already misses the buzz, authenticity and infectious joy of my old friend Cuba!

(22 November)