Playa Giron – Cienfuegos - 70 km
Signboards indicated 94 kilometres to Cienfuegos. The going was
effortless as much of the day was spent biking along a low-lying and
swampy area where the road was in good condition. Now and again,
one had to give way to herds of cows or cycle on the opposite side of
the road as half the way was used to dry rice or wheat. My odometer
wasn’t working but I guessed I travelled about 40 kilometres until
reaching a new highway, which indicated Cienfuegos was only 30
kilometres further. I’m always happy about a shortcut and arrived in
Cienfuegos earlier than anticipated.
A few people lured me to their casa particular, and it was a pleasure
to give them my business. The prices were all identical, and the
accommodation was almost similar. The lady where I bunked down
seemed pleased that she had a guest and went out of her way to put
the bike away and make my stay pleasurable.
An evening stroll along the waterfront and around the central plaza
revealed a hive of activity. In the process, I met Jen and Jeff from
Canada, also travelling by bicycle. They mentioned they saw me in
Vinales. I’m impressed by people who can identify one off the bike
without the disguise of a cap and shades. How incredibly observant of
them.