Cuba Finale

In grand style our last night in Cuba

Approaching Cuba with an open mind, we came away with a great appreciation for the country and the Cuban people. We found the people to be industrious, friendly, and open. Even though the Cuban government provides much for them under socialism, the folks we observed and met were working to improve their lives. Many have more than one job or are starting businesses, and others are perfecting their skills and branching out into new endeavors. 

 

There’s a strong sense of community and caring for each other among the Cuban people. In each neighborhood, everyone knows everyone else. Their doctor, community center, elementary school, and their ration station – all are encompassed within the community. They vote for neighborhood representatives to the government.

 

Yanet explains the rationing system

With their ration cards, the people can buy staples for a minimum price. This doesn’t provide all of their food and goods for the month, but is seen as a help through, a hand up. 

People-to-people. From seniors, school children, farmers, small business owners, artists, dancers, taxi drivers, local guides, professors, and our own Yanet, we became educated and closer to a better understanding of Cuba. 

Learning about Cuban history from their perspective enlightened us and made us want to know more. Our group members asked thoughtful questions, eliciting new information, which opened our minds, shed light, and made stronger connections.

Since coming home, a common question friends asked was “Did you feel safe?” Absolutely. We were out walking in Havana one evening and never worried. Just like at home, we were aware of our surroundings and didn’t do anything stupid. Other members of our group took taxis and went out dancing at clubs and to music venues.

When asked about the crime rate, Yanet said, “... our most common crime is street fights, when we have public activities. Because of low drug consumption, we have no gangs in Cuba and also guns are not allowed to be sold. That makes Cuba a safe country.”

Panhandlers were non-existent. Only once, some teenagers approached us for money as we exited a restaurant. Yanet spoke to them in a low, stern voice, and the boys backed off.

Since coming home, we’ve discovered more friends who have traveled to Cuba. The story is always the same—how great the trip was, how wonderful the people, how beautiful the country, how impressed we were, and how much we loved it.

We loved it. And, we've loved sharing bits of it with you.

Until the next time,

xoA&J