On the bus and ready for lunch.  I, Zeb the duck, on my way to Hacienda de Manaca Iznaga for lunch.

Riding through the country and watching the lush vegetation, I learn that this was once a center of sugar cane production.  In the early 19^th century hundreds of French refugees fled Haiti and set up about 50 small sugar mills in this Valley de los Ingenios.  Soon this region produced a third of Cuba’s sugar.

Here we are, ready for lunch.  We sat outside near the gardens.

A very beautiful and peaceful setting.  While we waited for our food, these musicians entertained us.

It was very nice.

After our delicious lunch we inspected this trapiche.

The trapiche was used to extract juice from sugar cane.  The force or power for this tapiche was often provided by animals, but not by ducks.

We ate outside, enjoying the fresh air, but as we walked through the restaurant, I loved these table decorations.

So much a part of a vacation experience.

I am a very happy duck today.

This tower was used during the sugar cane plantation days.  At the top is my friend Barbara.

She climbed all the way to the top.  Wow Barbara!  These friendly people were selling craft items

and linens.

They were beautiful.  I like to see all the items for sale.

Time to get back on the bus now.  We are going to visit Casa del Alfarero, a pottery house.  The Santander Family founded this pottery house and they have produced pottery here for generations.  We love family businesses.

Here the gentleman shows how to make pottery.

He makes it look so easy.  Now he asks if anyone else has ever made pottery.  Here is my friend Susan.

She is making pottery.  She is very good.

There are many beautiful pieces of pottery to see and purchase.  Mom bought this mask and ashtray with a cigar.

Pottery must be packed in checked luggage to go home, so we bought small items.  More about cigars later, when we visit the cigar factory and store.