I booked this experience several months in advance and communication with Michel was always swift, pleasant, and reassuring. We felt totally welcome as Michel made full introductions and explained how the morning experience would unfold. When we met Michel (along with Maria and Betty) it was at a rooftop apartment studio that offered a large and comfortable outdoor patio for the massages, and a cozy, inviting living area where we had our introductory tea and our post-massage meal.
This experience was the perfect way to start our getaway in Havana. This isn't a deep tissue or kneading message. This is... as advertised... a Thai Yoga message. The stretching... the attention to every joint and muscle connection... the respect for peace and calm. It was outstanding. Attention is given to every limb, every toe, every finger, every muscle connection in your face... the experience just leaves you reinvigorated. Every area of one’s body is fully relieved of outside concerns or energies. My partner and I were both amazed at how Michel and Maria worked in such tandem and moved around our bodies with such stealth as they did their work. The massages were deeply enhanced by the fresh air, the calming music, and the increasingly wonderful scents as Betty worked on lunch.
Our post-massage lunch was absolutely delightful… and all homemade and infused with the passion of its preparer! It started with a pumpkin soup with toasted seeds and was followed by “wraps” made from eggplant (these were my personal favorite!), cabbage sauteed with fresh tomatoes, and lentils. This was all accompanied by slices of chocolate infused fresh bread. It was all amazing and easily competition for any restaurant we visited. Seriously, this meal was outstanding.
One other aspect of this experience must be noted. Often, when I attempt to use the Spanish I’ve been trying to learn, I find that hosts or locals will immediately begin to try and use English instead. That wasn’t the case here, and I was extremely appreciative that Michel and his co-hosts allowed me to integrate my rudimentary Spanish as I could and encouraged it. As we conversed during and after lunch, it was the first time I felt comfortable and encouraged to “try” my limited Spanish. This was a lovely gesture and greatly appreciated.
Every aspect of this experience was outstanding. I would highly recommend it to anyone. We try and visit Havana once a year, and it is without question that we will be rebooking a morning with Michel every year from here out.