Cuba
Arriving to the port of Havana brings you back in time. The first thoughts for most is the classic cars and the 1950s. But theres more. Don’t worry the pink ride will be at the door to greet you.
As an American traveling here we are welcome to visit for educational purposes. I was lucky enough to travel with my colleagues in a private group and immerse in their life. We visited a school, a cigar factory of course, we meandered the streets and we went to see the home of Jose Fuster. An interesting man who created art to brighten his tough neighborhood. The neighbors embraced it and it spread from his home to several blocks. It is know as Fusterlandia.
Our guide provided a lot of insight into the life of the people. The best way to visit and get to know a country is to spend time with the locals. Have a conversation, share a meal, and in my case spend the day with them and listen to the stories as you walk the streets and see life as a local.
Here you will see a woman set on a rooster. What does this mean to you? There are many speculations to it however, per the Cuban people this is a symbol of hard times and the will to do anything to provide for your children including prostitution. Upon the collapse of the Soviet Union which lead to the financial crisis in Cuba as they were partners for exporting there was little money and a lot of issues.
Finish the day at the Floridita with a Daiguiri and see what inspired Hemingway as he sat there too. I recommend Cuba be added to your travels.
Until next time enjoy your journey and travel like a local.
