{hotel raquel, havana...}

We spent 3 nights at the Hotel Raquel in Old Havana. The location was perfect, quiet and just steps to San Fransisco Square and the Chocolate Museum (I waited in line for an hour for a chocolate fish!).
We especially loved the rooftop terrace where we could enjoy a Mojito, a Cohiba and a beautiful view.

{lovely figs...}

This is the first food post I've made, but really, who could resist snapping a few shots of these gorgeous figs?! Mother nature does some incredible work... I grilled these veggies as a side to sun dried tomatoes and goat cheese stuffed chicken.
I've been somewhat out of touch lately with the trip to Cuba and getting up to speed on my new job. But I'm back this week and will be sharing more photos of Havana as well as a special Thursday post celebrating the upcoming Vancouver 2010 Olympics.
This will be a regular Thursday event until I head out West to Volunteer for the Games.
Wishing you a fruitful week!

{la playa...}

Our 4 nights on the beach in Varadero are almost not worth mentioning as the resort and food left a lot to be desired. We knew this in choosing Varadero, but the flights worked for us and we were close to Havana, the reason for our trip to Cuba. The white sand and crystal clear waters were a small slice of paradise. Our resort was located on the point, so we always had a little plot of sand just for us!

{a getaway to cuba!...}

Remember that November vacation I was longing for, the Grenadines or Cuba? Well, C and I both got offered new jobs at the beginning of this month, so we decided to celebrate with a getaway to Cuba!
We took over a 1000 photos and are busy sorting and editing... there will be more to share soon. This shot is of our hotel lobby in Havana Vieja (the old town) - The Hotel Raquel. More to come on this great property and the rest of our trip.

{chanel travels...}

I love the new Chanel No 5 commercial with the beautiful Audrey Tautou. All the whimsy and class of vintage travel... trains, boats, exquisite clothes (especially the black wide-leg pant suit, swoon!) and of course a lovely scent.

{with glowing hearts...}

It's official, I've been offered and accepted a volunteer position with the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. Feeling proud to be a Vancouverite and Canadian today!

{happy halloween!...}

Photos from here and here.