To kiss or not to kiss? 💋

🖌️ Created by Pauline Baudry

How people greet each other varies greatly between cultures, and can be different depending on the context, relationship, age, and gender.

In Europe, however, giving kisses is a common way to greet close relatives and friends, though men-to-men interactions typically exclude kisses.

In Belgium, one kiss is customary, while in certain French regions, people greet each other with up to four kisses.

My response:

2,3, or 4??? 💋

Thanks for posting. This reminded me of my junior year of college when I lived in France. One of the greatest challenges when meeting someone for the first time was gracefully following their lead regarding how many times to kiss hello. In some places, we kissed two times like in Paris; in other places, we kissed three times such as in the southeastern France; and in the city where I lived in Normandy, we kissed four times. Sometimes you didn’t know when to stop moving your head from right to left.🤣

Solo travel for the first time!!

 "7 Essential Tips for Women Embarking on Their First Solo Travel Adventure"

Introduction:

Traveling solo can be a transformative and empowering experience for women. It offers an opportunity for self-discovery, independence, and the chance to explore the world on your terms. However, taking that leap can feel daunting. To help you navigate your first solo travel journey with confidence, here are seven essential tips to consider:

1. Choose Your Destination Wisely:

Select a destination that aligns with your interests, comfort level, and safety considerations. Research the local culture, customs, and any specific challenges or restrictions for female travelers. Opt for destinations known for their solo travel friendliness and vibrant community.

2. Plan and Prepare:

Thoroughly plan and prepare for your trip. Create a detailed itinerary, including accommodations, transportation, and activities. Research the local attractions, landmarks, and experiences you want to explore. Take necessary safety precautions, such as registering with your embassy, obtaining travel insurance, and informing loved ones about your travel plans.

3. Trust Your Intuition and Stay Vigilant:

While traveling alone, trust your instincts and stay vigilant. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid risky situations. Use common sense when interacting with strangers and be cautious with sharing personal information. Research local customs and norms to ensure respectful behavior.

4. Pack Smart and Travel Light:

Pack efficiently by prioritizing versatile clothing options and essentials. Consider the climate and activities of your destination. Pack a travel-size first aid kit, essential medications, and necessary documents. Avoid overpacking to ensure mobility and convenience during your journey.

5. Connect with Fellow Travelers:

Engage with fellow solo travelers through online forums, social media groups, or local meetups. Sharing experiences and advice with like-minded individuals can enhance your journey and provide a sense of community. Attend organized tours or activities to meet other travelers and make new friends.

6. Embrace Your Independence:

Solo travel offers a unique opportunity to embrace your independence and explore at your own pace. Enjoy the freedom to choose your activities, try new things, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Be open to new experiences, step out of your comfort zone, and create lasting memories.

7. Stay Connected and Share Your Journey:

Maintain communication with loved ones back home, updating them on your whereabouts and well-being. Consider using messaging apps or social media platforms to share your journey with family and friends. It provides a sense of connection and reassurance while embarking on your solo adventure.

Conclusion:

Embarking on your first solo travel adventure as a woman is an exciting and empowering step. By following these seven essential tips, you can navigate your journey with confidence, embrace the joys of independence, and create unforgettable experiences. Remember to prioritize your safety, trust your instincts, and savor every moment of this transformative experience. Solo travel is not only about exploring the world but also discovering the strength and resilience within yourself. So, set off on your journey, and let the world become your playground!

Cuba-Cienfuegos

Cuba-Cienfuegos 

Eager with anticipation, I was one of the first up on deck to enjoy the sail-in to Cienfuegos. I was up before 6 AM and my group left the ship at 7:40 AM.

nurses check temperature

 

Cuba is a country that uses infrared technology to ensure visitors are not carrying diseases. At this smaller port, the equipment budget is obviously smaller so two live nurses were on hand to check each passenger with a thermometer to the four head to inspect for diseases. I believe that is a first time experience for me.

After spending a full day at sea since we left Havana, today, we spent a half day visiting Cienfuegos, the Pearl Of the South. Founded by a French speaking New Orleans landowner, Cienfuegos' neo classical architecture, wide seaside boulevards, and sparkling bay make this another stunning city on the island of Cuba. It's French heritage has been so well preserved that many of its residents speak French and most are descendants from Europe, reflecting the founders goal to increase the population of whites on the island. Reflecting it's French roots, there is even an arc de triompe in Jose Marti park-the only one of its kind in all of Cuba and it contains a system of urban planning adopted by Paris' Baron Haussman, with broad main avenues, with broad tree-lined public spaces. 

I found it quaint, clean, serene, uncrowded, and it moved at a much slower pace than Havana.

 

Our first stop was in the historic town center, designated a UNESCO world heritage site (2005), where we strolled through the Jose Marti park--where we learned about all of the structures and monuments to cuba's founders and heroes. We also visited several art galleries displaying creative and spectacular varied works.  On the north side of the park is the Tomas Terry theater where we listened to a private performance from a well-known choir, that moved me to tears, with their lovely voices where  they sang, spirituals, gospel, traditional Cuban music, even Celine Dion songs, all in a perfect a cappella. Next, we took a walking tour through another part of town and then walked along the harborfront. We had free time to stroll along the boulevards enjoying the spectacular scenery, the marketplace where vendors sold a variety of colorful goods, and the waterfront Park replete with inviting cafés and restaurants. We even walked inside to take a peek at some new entrepreneurial collectives such as a bustling, popular beauty salon.

The sail-away at noon was spectacular! We passed through small and islets vacation-goers wearing colorful swimwear waved us goodbye.

 

That afternoon, I listened to lectures on our next and last port of call, Santiago de Cuba and on the Santeria religion. At 5 o'clock, they played Henry Louis Gates Jr's "Black in Latin America" episode on Cuba. I was impressed that they show this important fact-based documentary. I had packed my "Black in Latin America" book and had brought it with me. 

I dined again at another lively large table of eight fellow travelers. One of the guests (from Mississippi) is her husband's six wife. I am rarely speechless…… 

That evening, I attended another Latin dance class, enjoyed some line dancing, and listened to the Cuban band as they moved the pool party indoors because of the rain.  I sat with two of my new dinner-mate friends from South Florida, Irene and Claudia.

One of the more interesting stories on board is of the couple who met on a travel meet up site and agreed to share a room together. They met for the first time at the port in Miami. One is a man and one is a woman. It seems everyone met one or both of them and heard the story..........eventually.  I have nothing juicy to report just the fact that two adult strangers of the opposite sex are sharing a tiny room (and bathroom) on a cruise ship for an entire week!

It's stormed powerfully overnight but the ship rocked to me to sleep anyway.