Backpacking Cuba...you can't do that! That's how most people responded when I said I was going to backpack Cuba and avoid the touristy all-inclusive resorts that Cuba is known for. Even the travel agent told me is was not a wise choice to book a flight only and that I should reconsider my all inclusive options. Throwing caution to the wind, off I went landing at Varadero airport with my backpack, ear plugs, extra toilet paper and my trusted lonely planet. First stop was Mantazaz which was a local town about 20km from the airport.

As we did throughout our trip, we stayed in Casa Particulaires or local Cuban homes with an extra room to rent. We arrived at night and after searching for over an hour for our place when a tout approached us and guided the way for $2. It was a lovely old colonial home, with 50s decor and beautiful high ceilings and intricate designs. Mom, grandma and the kids running through made you feel as you were visiting long lost relatives....who didn't speak a word of English. The language barrier wasn't much of a problem as long as you're good at charades.

The government allows for Cubans with extra rooms in their house to rent them out and they in turn have to pay the Cuban government a tariff of about $250 (CDN) a month whether they rent them or not for this privilege. Considering the average Cuban makes between $15- $30 a month salary, the pressure to rent out their rooms is enormous. The average room is around $25-$30 a night and they will cook you breakfast ($3 per person) or dinner ($6 per person).Casa Particulaires are similar to B&B's in Canada and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to embrace the lovely Cuban people & culture that the all inclusive cannot provide.

Off we headed to Havana for a few days of intoxicating culture, history & one too many cigars.....Intrigued? Check back for my next weeks topic, Havana, Horseback and Caving..
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