Havana A Good Time in Cuba

Christie Post - San Rafael Street

Everyone always describes Cuba as traveling back in time. It’s 100% accurate. 

In the midst of the poor, dilapidated city — you’ll see cars from the 1950’s, hear live music in the street and watch people have meaningful conversations. 

It’s hard to believe in the age of technology, Cubans are detached from their phones and rely on real-life communication. It's largely due to the country having the world’s worst internet. A decision by the government to keep millions of citizens from surfing the web. 

Still, there’s something charming about it. 

Christie Post - Old Havana

Everything about Cuba is eye-opening — from the waves crashing against the Malecón to locals eager to teach you how to dance. 

Life is simple.

I wanted to go before it changes, but I wasn’t prepared for third world conditions. 

Aside from those iconic Havana nights, there’s a lot of work to be done. 

So come for the culture, pictures and rich history. Don’t expect much from the food.

Christie Post - Hotel Ambos Mundos

BEFORE YOU GO

Southwest has direct flights from Tampa to Cuba for as low as $149 roundtrip. The ticket includes the required travel insurance to enter the country. You’ll just need to purchase a $85 visa online from Cuban Visa Services. Pick it up at the airport before you check your bag. 

Exchange your money at the mall. There is a 10% tax on all American dollars in Cuba. Convert your cash to Canadian, Euros or Mexican Pesos to avoid the tax. Keep in mind when you convert to cuban money at the airport, tourists use CUC and citizens use CUP. Don’t get the two mixed up, you will pay for it in the long run. 

Bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer. A lot of it. Many restrooms make you pay for toilet paper or do not have it at all. You will first experience this at the airport. Same goes for napkins.

Christie Post - El Malecón

WHERE TO STAY 

Skip the expensive hotels. Rent an affordable Airbnb instead. 10 of us stayed in a spanish-style mansion for $200 per person. It’s a gorgeous oasis next to the city and comes with full-service maids. Every morning we had breakfast made to order. One night we had a chef cook seafood and a band perform on the patio. Turns out they were featured on Conan. (See the video below)

Christie Post - Cuba 2017 Trip

WHAT TO EAT 

The best restaurants are paladares. Since tourism is booming, you must make reservations ahead of time. Otherwise you may be eating a $1 cuban sandwich on the street. Keep in mind Cuba rations food, so not everything on the menu is available. 

La Guardia is the most famous and among the best food in Cuba. It’s not uncommon to see celebrities. Queen B herself, Beyonce, once dined here. 

Christie Post - La Guardia

San Cristobal Paladar is another hot spot known for its walls covered in vintage photos and antiques. Former President Obama and the Kardashians both got a taste of the traditional dining experience. I don’t smoke, but at the end of the meal you get a hand rolled cigar. When in Cuba, right?

Paladar Vistamar is by far my favorite. This newly upgraded home has a spectacular view. Enjoy seafood overlooking an infinity pool that spills into the ocean. Don’t get to close to the edge, you’ll get soaked by waves. 

El Cocinero is an old vegetable factory transformed into a hip restaurant/bar in the art district. The view from the rooftop will blow you away. 

El Del Frente is a popular rooftop to take in the changing landscape of downtown Cuba. Lots of photo opportunities!

Christie Post - Hotel Ambos Mundos

Wish List:

Atelier Restaurante

La Torre

304 O’Reilly

WHERE TO HAVE FUN

1803 is a nightclub with live music and salsa dancing. Locals aren’t afraid to show you their moves. Just bring a small purse or you will have to check it at the door. 

Fabrica del arte is an art museum and bar. The interesting concept draws large crowds. Get there before 9 p.m. or you’ll have to wait a couple hours to get in. 

Hotel Ambos Mundos is walking distance to everything. The rooftop has a spectacular view of old Havana and the ocean.  

Hotel Nacional is an iconic place featured in a lot of movies filmed in Cuba. It’s a perfect spot to grab a mojito and watch the sunset.

Museo Del Ron isn't a rum factory, but it is a tour of how it's made. Enjoy a traditional mojito or pina colada at the bar next door. 

Christie Post - Havana Club

Ernest Hemingway’s house, Finca Vigía is 10 miles outside of the city. He lived there from 1939 to 1960 and wrote From Whom The Bells Tolls. Since it’s near the beach, you can do both in one trip.

Partagas Cigar Factory is worth a visit, but get tickets from a hotel before you go. You can’t get them at the door. 

My biggest regret is not going outside of the city. I’ve heard Trinidad, a Spanish colonial town near the sugar fields, is a must-do. That’s on my list for next time. 

It’s still so hard to believe the country is so close yet a world away. Only time will tell if anything changes...

Christie Post - Hotel Ambos Mundos

#WorkoutLikePapa

Jack Houser - Texas 

Meet my grandpa Jack Houser or Papa as I like to call him. 

He was born in Texas the year of 1925. That makes him 90.

What's fascinating is he doesn't look his age at all...people think he's a lot younger.

It's all thanks to fitness.

All his life he has been active. Every day he works out (that's more than I can say).

Three days a week he lifts weights and walks two miles. The other days he does floor exercises.

You may be asking, how did he get started?

He served in the army in WWII, which taught him how to exercise. 

Jack Houser - WWII

He also owned several jean stores and managed women’s shoe stores. If you know anything about retail, you know that type of work involves a lot of time on your feet.

He knew building muscle would give his body the support it needs.

Since you really do have to see to believe it, I wanted to share his story to motivate others to #WorkoutLikePapa.

It helps him check off his bucket list too. 

On vacation in Arizona, I produced the video below on his 90th birthday.

It can't go viral without your help. 

Please share this inspirational video: 

I know I definitely want to follow in his footsteps or at least hope I got a handful of his genes.

Here’s to many more years of working out Papa. Love you. 

Update: Papa is now 92 and just as fit. I shared his story and producer a new video for The Penny Hoarder. It goes to show age is just a number. 

Christie Post - Scottsdale, Arizona

                              

10 Unique Gifts for 2014

No need to worry, if you haven’t started shopping for the holidays – there is still time!

I think the best part about giving is being creative. So I did all the research for you.

Here are 10 unique gifts your loved one never expected, but will go crazy over:

1.     Snow/Swim Camera Goggles

Film any extreme adventure hands-free. This is a hot ticket item so get it soon, or you may be waiting…

http://www.liquidimageco.com/

2.     Bangle with a purpose

This isn’t just any piece of jewelry, it a flask inside the bangle. Perfect for festival goers.

http://www.cynthiarowley.com/accessories/flask-bangle-silver-o-s.html

3.     Not just any dumbbell

Ever wanted a set of weights, but didn’t have space? This is the perfect in-between.

http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/stamina-50-lb.-versa-bell-ii-dumbbell/ID=prod4077135-product

4.     Portable Bluetooth Speakers have never been so fancy

It’s a clutch with a mirror, pocket for your lipstick and a Bluetooth speaker. And it’s SUPER cute.

http://www.stelleaudio.com/index.php/stelle-audio-mini-clutch-dazzling-diamond.html

5.     Adopt an olive grove

You can adopt a puppy or cat…but that is risky if the person isn’t ready for a pet yet. Here’s another idea, adopt an olive tree in Sicily. The best part? You don’t have to be there for the TLC, and you get the olive oil in return. 

http://www.nudoadopt.com/

6.     A knife unlike any other

Have a fisherman, hunter or knife collector in your family? This screams have to have. 

http://www.bestmadeco.com/products/silver-fish-folding-knife

7.     Funky Nails

Do you know someone who loves to express themselves with their nails? Jawberry makes stickers that last up to two weeks. There are so many designs too!

https://www.jamberrynails.net/shop

8.     Fitbit with style

Tory Burch makes a fitbit bracelet and necklace for your fitness enthusiast. This is WAY more stylish than the rubber bands you see people wearing. 

http://www.fitbit.com/toryburch#1

9.     Head Massager

This peaked my interest when I saw it on Kourtney & Khloe Take the Hamptons. I mean who doesn’t love your head massaged?

http://www.amazon.com/Scalp-Massager-Body-Back-Company/dp/B001IHXFQK

10.  Plan something

I am an explorer by nature. Send me to any town, even Buffalo in the winter time and I can find something fun to do. My advice find a trip to take on Groupon or Travel Zoo (it will be cheaper). Or go to a restaurant that just opened. You can’t lose with “a thought that counts”.

 http://www.groupon.com/getaways

 HAPPY HOLIDAYS! ENJOY GIFTING!

Love advice from Jerry Springer

Love is in the air – no really!

When it starts to get chilly out – you know, sweater weather…singles come out in droves in search of a winter cuddle buddy. It’s called “cuffing season”, as I've learned. Yes, it’s really a thing.

But it’s not forever love, like some of you may be searching for. Usually the cuff is broken when summer rolls around.

That’s where Jerry Springer steps in.

I recently interviewed him for a story about his new show Baggage airing in January on GSN. It's about three contestants who reveal their most intimate secrets before going out with the prospective date. 

Christie Post - The Now Tampa Bay/ABC

Let’s hope you already research the person you are dating anyways. i.e. Facebook stalk

Ok back to Jerry. When you think of the talk show host – you think of chaos.

I asked him what's his most memorable love story? He said, "when a man married his horse, and then the horse broke up with him." Of course, Jerry said he was against it. 

Now you’re probably thinking, why would I take advice from him?

You may be surprised to hear, he thinks the majority of the relationships he sees are stupid. Yeah, he told me that.

Truthfully he said you will find “the one” when you are not looking. 

I know it’s not much to go on, but that can’t eat, can’t sleep, over the moon kind of love – just happens.  

20 things that are so Tampa Bay

I’m a west coast girl now living on the east coast.

Originally from Colorado, I went to college in Arizona. Graduating with a journalism degree, my career took me to California, Texas and most recently Florida.

I kind of feel like Dorthy from the Wizard of Oz.

Here’s what I know so far about Tampa Bay:

1. The local news comes on at 11 p.m. 
I've always watched or worked on a 10 o’clock news show. So this is different…

2. Rollerblades are in! 
The last time I strapped on skates was for an 80's themed party at a roller rink. It’s an every day occurrence on Bayshore Blvd. Guess I’ll have to try it? 

3. A lot of people have “Salt Life” stickers. 
I looked it up and the story behind the sticker is pretty cool. Four guys from Jacksonville started the brand in 2003 to cater to people who love the ocean. I mean, the beach life isn't too shabby. 

4. The sunrise and sunset never gets old. 
It’s almost like Bob Ross painted the sky — you get the picture.

5. It rains a lot. 
Tampa is the lightning capital of the United States. The good news — the rain is usually over in less than 20 minutes.

6. The movie star Winter lives here. 
I got the chance to report on Dolphin Tale 2. It’s story about a dolphin named Winter who lost her tail and was rescued by the Clearwater Aquarium. She can never live a normal life in the wild, but her bravery has touched the lives on millions of people. 

7. Everyone is an FSU or UF fan. 
Where are all the Sun Devils? Go ASU!

8. The Cuban sandwich is the state’s iconic food item. 
Reportedly the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor made one of the first in 1905. It's nothing like sandwiches in Cuba. It's better!

9. Derek Jeter lives on Davis Islands. 
I know there are a lot of Yankee fans in Tampa Bay, but almost every weekend I have heard someone toss Derek Jeter’s name around. I did a story on his charity Turn 2 Foundation. It’s amazing how much he gives back to the community.

10. DJ Kitty is pretty entertaining. 
Have you been to a Tampa Bay Rays game? This cat is the official DJ.

11. Cigars are everywhere. 
Ybor is coined “Cigar City”. Mainly because of its past. Rows of people used to hand roll millions of cigars every year, but the Great depression led to the downfall of the industry. Now old factories are turning into apartments, while some shops still keep the tradition alive. 

12. Jaws is real! 
Maybe not the sharks we saw in the movie, but I’ve already heard a handful of stories about sharks biting people. I prefer the ones at Florida Aquarium, especially during the fundraiser Brews By The Bay.  

13. There is no lack of strip clubs. 
Have you seen Magic Mike? The movie was inspired by actor Channing Tatum who used to be a stripper in Tampa.

14. Florida has more golf courses than any other state in the country. 
I come from a golfing family so this is important to me. There are more than 1,250 courses to be exact.

15. Bern's Steak House is a staple. 
The restaurant takes you back to the 1920’s. It’s an experience you will definitely never forget. There's even a separate room for the best part of the meal — dessert.

16. Palm trees are on every corner. 
It is the state tree so it makes sense. I can definitely get used to it!

17. Craft breweries are on the rise. 
Cigar City Brewing is one of the biggest breweries in town. 3 daughters brewing, Tampa Bay Brewing, Dunedin Brewery, Cycle, Angry Chair and Rock Brothers will wet your whistle.

18. Taco Bus.  
Pull up to the school bus and order. The restaurant was featured on Food Network. It packs some serious deliciousness.

19. Disney World! 
I still can’t believe the happiest place on earth is only an hour away. 

20. Gasparilla is all people talk about. 
It's like Madi Gras, but with pirates. Guess I will experience it come January. Arrrgh!

Embrace Your Nickname

Christie Post - Post, Texas

Nicknames. We all get them at some point. We’ve heard the good...and sometimes the not so good. 

When I was younger my brother out shined me. In school I was always known as Remington’s little sister. I mean who can forget that name!

At the time I never thought anyone would know my name. 

Then high school came around. Some people just called me Post, maybe because it’s shorter? One syllable, who knows? Others called me C-Post or Chris. Never really Christie – at least those close to me.

It wasn’t until college people FINALLY started using my name….I mean my FIRST name.

As I learned that wasn’t my identity...

When I started my career as a journalist Post just worked. Some people still think it's a "stage" name. Nope...it's my real name. 

I've been called the postmaster, poster child, the host with the most. Oh yeah I can’t forget about a viewer in Lubbock who called me crispy toast (still not sure about that one)

What really stuck is "Keeping You Posted".

My friends, family and fans would all tell me, thanks for keeping me posted...then laughed.

That's when I realized that's what I do for my job. 

If I have any advice — sometimes nicknames aren’t really what you expect. So embrace it —  good or bad. You may never really know where it can take you.