Cuba

Next I went to Cuba......

 on a very early morning flight.... and saw some amazing cloud formations around the mountains and volcanoes.

I happened to have got some free nights in a 4 Star hotel as part of my flight package - and ended up in their Privilege room - it was enormous..................

 .... and had great views from the 9th floor.......

 ...... and of course I enjoyed their swimming pool too...........

 

Hollie and Tagle, a day out at the book fayre. 

  

 Views from the book fayre.

 Havana Harbour

 Much of Havana looks like this..... amazing buildings, some falling down, some in the process of being rebuilt.

 Hollie, Tagle, Carlos and Celia. A great family!

Lake Atitlan

Last weekend I took Abi to Lake Atitlan. It´s one of my favourite places in Guatemala. We had a purpose for the visit - as we went to see a church who will soon be receiving a Step team, but we also had chance to chill out and enjoy the views.

The view of the 'Indians Nose'  above San Juan La Laguna, with the Cerro de la cruz beneath it.

One day we climbed up to the Cerro de la Cruz, for a great view over the lake.

It was a beautiful day with the sun shining on the coffee plants!

San Juan La Laguna from above.

San Pedro La Laguna in the momentary sunshine on the walk back.

It was also great to visit the church. They are really looking forward to recieving the Step team. My friend Dr Israel Hernandez, of Ami San Lucas was preaching that week.

It´s a small village up in the mountains where everyone is indigenous and all the women wear traditional dress. (I noticed that there was also a hat stand at the back of church - to keep your cowboy hat safe!)

I love staying in San Pedro La Laguna. I always stay in a little hostel right on the edge of the Lake - so that I can go for a swim as soon as I get up!. But it´s very basic - we paid Q25 (2quid) per night each. A bit of a difference from my next trip...... in my next blog!

Central America Conference

I´ve just come back from the Latin Link Central America team conference, which was held in Costa Rica. I had a great time. Apart from anything else, the conference centre had a pool so I could have a swim every day (it´s been way too long since I´ve been able to swim regularly!) But also it´s always great to catch up with friends and meet a few new ones. I´m not very good at having my camera to take photos - but I did remember it for the talent night.... so here´s a few pics for you.

Lukas, as himself! 

 

Ray and Bridget as .... (not sure)! 

 The superb Guatemala syncronised swimming team!

 

Big finish from Nahum, the star of the act! 

 

 The very talented Kenya (and Nadia)

 Guatemala Striders and me  - last to leave!

 

 Groovy!