Cuba 2003, like all of Leona's watercolor tours, was a wonderful and memorable experience for Leona and the students that traveled with her!

Leaving Winnipeg (Canada) on a cold and blustery January day, they spent a week in Cuba:   three days in Old Havana
and four days on the beaches of Veradero.

The hotel in Havana was the Hotel Sevilla, a grand dame originally built in 1908 and now completely refurbished by the Sofitel hotel group.  With a beautiful reception area, fine dining, and an inviting pool/relaxation area, all of the amenities of decadent living were readily available.
   Art instruction was not the only activity, as can be seen by these photos.

Walking along the open boulevards and side streets provided an opportunity to meet Cuban artisans and discuss techniques.

On Sunday, the children were dressed in their finery as they strolled with mothers and fathers while shopping.
Peggy Prendergast shares some happy moments with two little girls.

When not enjoying the sights and sounds of Havana, Leona and her students spent their time in the sunshine sketching, jotting down notes, and producing on-the-spot watercolors.

After three enchanting days, it was off to the opposite end of the large island by air-conditioned (and bar equipped!) coach.

While en route, a stop was made at a scenic wayside park that overlooked a deep and lush gorge.  The stop also allowed time for a brief visit with local Cubans, always smiling and ever-so-ready to have photos taken!

Viva Veradero!  The Veradero beaches invite you to walk without shoes.  Soft, warm sand eases the pains and encourages exploring.

Just outside the quaint town of Veradero, the accommodation was provided by the Iberostar Barlovento.  Four-star accommodation with the warm beach only steps away from the air conditioned rooms.

When watercolor instruction wasn't "on the menu", there was sailing, scuba diving, dancing instruction, feasting, partying, and nightly live entertainment.