Ballerina from children's arts school in Camaguey
Camaguey is one of Cubas original 7 settlements. Its symbol is the Tinajone, an earthenware jar that was used to capture rainwater in the drought-like conditions endemic there. We landed at Plaza del Carmen, where a bronze statue continues to deliver tinajones.
El Paso Restaurant, Plaza del Carmen
Lucky Strike? A classic cigarette brand I believe was retired in the US; it was pointed out to us that American trademarks have little meaning in Cuba in part in retaliation for the embargo.
We were welcomed with a mojito; El Paso Restaurant.
Gallery of Martha Jimenez. We were allowed to take pictures only in the courtyard. She is becoming well-known internationally and has done exhibitions in the United States as well as many European and other countries.
Parrot in Martha Jimenez' gallery.
Martha Jimenez Gallery.
Children's school specializing in the arts. I found the architecture of the place to be stunning.
Students
Ballet performance put on by the students.
We were allowed to ask and answer questions of the students after their performance.
Arts school
Mother and child riding electric motor scooter. I was told a number of these were imported and sold, after which the place in which they were sold closed. "This is what usually happens in Cuba. Here today, gone tomorrow." Apparently why the Cubans have developed such incredible innovation in keeping things running.....
And perhaps why some choose transportation that requires much less mechanical intervention.
Street vendors. It was my understanding that these were licensed to sell independent of the government shops. Note birdcage on right.
Pedicabs in which our group rode; adorned with stunning artistry.
Plaza de los Trabajadores, Workers' Plaza.
Plaza de los Trabajadores, Workers' Plaza.
1956 Plymouth
Entering Plaza San Juan de Dios, Restaurant La Compana de Toledo on left
Restaurant La Compana de Toledo
Our group
Tour leaders Nico, Marlon and bus driver Lester: InsightCuba brought wonderful leadership on board.
Plaza San Juan de Dios
Plaza San Juan de Dios
Ancient buildings are strikingly photogenic...
...as are the Cuban people.
Crossing the Puente Jatibonico southeast out of old area. Few tourists go this way.
The bridge dates from 1773; the Rio Hatibonico is rather littered.
We became used to seeing brightly painted buildings, most of which were fixed up to be private B and Bs (Casa particulars). This appears to be an exception
Nearby wall art.
We were treated to a performance of the Camaguey Ballet, said to be second only to the Havana Ballet troupe
1956 Dodge perhaps less modified than some
A statue of Major Gen Ignacio Agramonte overlooks Parque Agramonte. Agamonte led rebel forces against the Spanish in the mid 1800s.
At the edge of Parque Agramonte, the Catedrale Meopolitana de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria
Catedrale Meopolitana de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria
Catedrale Meopolitana de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria
Leather shop, Pepe Gutierrez, a source of striking leather sculptures
Large humidor, workshop Pepe Guiterrez
A skilled leather craftsperson......
....and not.
Spray paint equipment, workshop Pepe Guiterrez
A bicyclist riding one-handed over cobblestone and brick...delivering a cake with the other hand.
Andarte Campania Flamenca
Andarte Campania Flamenca
Andarte Campania Flamenca
Andarte Campania Flamenca
Now a typical site: wifi connection can be purchased by the minute from a state-owned company, is available at parks and squares throughout Cuba though typically not in buildings.
Night time window shopping
Night time, and again the Internet...
2 less-than-friendly dogs....
