Day 0: The big departure for Cuba (From Varadero to Matanzas)

The big departure for Cuba (yes, again...)

Departure from Sherbrooke around noon to go to Dorval Airport (YUL)

Everything fits perfectly in my awesome $1000 sports car

I put my luggage in a large cardboard box. (It's free in bike shops)

The airport isn't as crowded as I expected. Check-in goes smoothly. Customs is a breeze. My goal is to cover about 400 km in a week... I've already booked my first night, but not the others... Where will I be? I arrived at Varadero airport in the evening around 9:30 PM. I collect my two boxes and head outside to assemble my bike.

Two kind Cubans helped me hold my bike while I assembled it. People are kind...you have to trust them.

After about thirty minutes, I'm finally ready to leave for Matanzas. Here are the two possible options for getting to Matanzas.

Option 1

Covering a distance of 18 km in the dark if your flight is late! (If you choose this option, bring a front and rear bike light.) You'll see it's very dark when you leave the airport. It's a bit crazy to set off at night...be careful. Obviously, this is the option I chose.

Option 2

Take a taxi to Matanzas with your bike box (Easy, but safe solution)

Before going any further, you need to exchange your Canadian money for Cuban pesos.

I recommend exchanging some money at the airport. Be aware that the rates aren't favorable, but it can be very useful to have some cash at the start of your trip.

I traveled 14 km in complete darkness to reach Matanzas and my first little guesthouse for the night. I paid 20 CAD on Expedia before leaving for Cuba. Here's my small room with lukewarm water.

It's midnight. Time to sleep. Tomorrow will be the official start of this little 7-day adventure... Life is good. We must enjoy it!