Cuba – The Hidden ParadiseWritten by Edwin Ali
Cuba – The Hidden ParadiseRead Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com To read this entire feature FREE with photos cut and paste this link: http://jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/globe02/Carib02/Cuba/Beach/cubali.html The recent United States Congress vote to lift ban on Americans traveling to Cuba will open flood gates for hundreds of thousands of individuals eager to take advantage of what is becoming increasingly known as "forbidden paradise", where Cohiba Lanceros Cigar and much vaunted Havana Club rum, vie for popularity against a backdrop of some of greatest architectural masterpieces of New World. These historical buildings are not only of immense importance to Cubans, but they are recognized as one of greatest attractions in Communist led nation, apart from miles and miles of pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and a warm and friendly people. Despite ban on American citizens going to Cuba, an estimated 200,000 circumvented prohibition in 1999 by traveling via Canada, Cancun, The Bahamas and Montego Bay, and although figures for 2000 are not yet out, it will certainly be higher than previous year. Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle of South Dakota said it was important to make "this incremental move" to lift travel ban, imposed 40 years ago on Communist ruled Island. The measure has to pass Senate, which is not assured at this particular time. The measure to lift travel ban passed House 240-186, with 67 Republicans and 173 Democrats backing it. As expected, move was met by an immediate rejection by Bush administration. A White House announcement that it would not accept any easing of sanctions. White House spokesman Ari Fleischer said President George W. Bush will not support new proposal, even though there is growing sentiment in Congress to offer Americans a chance to see Cuba for themselves, while some conservative Republicans argue that ban amounts to an infringement on right of U.S. citizens. Conservative Republican Jeff Flake of Arizona, who sponsored travel ban repeal in House, said Americans should be free to travel wherever they want. "What we've done is to erect our own Berlin Wall, preventing free travel of Americans. It's time to tear it down," said Rep. William Delahunt. Cuba's Foreign Minister Felipe Perez Roque described vote as "constituting a symbol, a proof of majority feeling in U.S. society."
| | Mohican County Rambles in OhioWritten by Melody Schubert
Mohican County Rambles in OhioRead Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com To read this entire feature FREE with photos cut and paste this link: http://www.jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/hotels/midwest/ohio/loundsville/castle.html On our drive along I-71 to Mohican State Park Resort and Conference Center in North-Central Ohio, near Loudonville, dark clouds loom in distance. The storm passed ahead of Leroy and I, although a chilly wind follows in its wake, stirring up earthy scents of forest to greet us when we arrive at Resort. Fall temperatures for Perrysville- Loudonville area in Ohio normally ranges in upper 50s at night. In winter when guests visit Mohican Memorial State Forest adjacent to park to cruise snowy trails on their snowmobiles temperatures drop to a high 20 degrees. A bit tired, we can’t resist slipping into our jackets and taking a brisk walk to admire bright moon rising in sky over Pleasant Hill Lake below Mohican State Park Resort. The 6,000-acre Mohican State Park and Forest is peaceful except for rustling of tree limbs and distant hoot of an owl. For a brief moment I imagine Delaware Indians huddled around a camp fire after a day of hunting before they were driven from area during War of 1812. The Mohican State Park, Resort, and Camp Grounds are packed throughout year with those who love hunting, fishing on Pleasant Hill Lake, and camping at one of 123 sites in park. Leroy draws me back from my thoughts to retire to our recently renovated and spacious guestroom where we relax with a cup of hot tea on a private balcony. In morning lobby is filled with aroma of fresh baked muffins. While we dined on our selections of fresh fruits and baked goods from wonderful buffet at Bromfield Restaurant outside window squirrels and blue jays shared a meal. Afterwards, Leroy challenges me to a quick game of pool while a family tests their skills at table tennis. Of course, he wins, but there’s always later when I’m sure to win at checkers, chess, or a number of other games available for entertainment in lobby. For now we’re headed out to admire fall foliage, shop, and catch a parade in Loudonville on our first day out. Fall leaves skitter across road while we drive through beautiful forests and over a scenic river below a covered bridge. On our way to Loudonville we find historic Pine Run Grist Mill where festivals are held annually. There is also a wonderful assortment of outdoor activities like horse back riding, canoeing, and go-carts for our family to enjoy on our summer camping trip next year. Ahead, we spot cars and crowds headed toward downtown Loudonville for parade. While waiting for floats and bands to pass we chat with our new friend, Paula. Almost like magic, she waves her hand and who should appear walking down sidewalk . . . Sylvester, cat.
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