CUBA PART 2 PLACES AND SPACES
The beautiful mysterious island of Cuba is now being discovered by more Americans after president Obama lifted some restrictions. It was my hope to visit this country before it becomes commercialized and Americanized. I will share my experiences of some of the many places and spaces in the cities of Santiago, Cienfuegos, and Havana. I see when Cuba was in its time of splendor, economically stable, and a thriving country, it was magnificent. Now the country’s buildings are deteriorating, but amazingly still being used. The country would love for more Americans to visit and do business. As Black Americans, I see this as great potential to connect, make money and help the country. As a woman of substance I love traveling and looking for opportunities to grow my money for my future. Always keep your eyes open for business opportunities.
A local theater company in Santiago performed for us.
Cienfuegos is a small, quaint, quiet city
Inside a majestic theater in downtown Havana
Our tour guide in Cienfuegos
Plenty of classic cars are used as taxis.
Eclectic view of Havana
Entering Havana, where exciting expectations await
Exploring the streets of Santiago. This city looks like time has stood still. The once grand structures are hanging on to their magic. And the Cuban people continue to exude pride in their cultural heritage.
A landmark cemetery in Santiago
This is the gravesite of one of the iconic member of the famous Buena Vista social club singing group.
The country is full of contradictions; near beautiful government buildings, are homes that are not so well kept living conditions. This is similar to what we also see our US cities (DC). Anyone visiting Cuba from the US need to meet criteria of either education, business, or people to people connections. With the people to people criteria, we were able to visit a theater, a ballet rehearsal, a community center, and local restaurants. We were taken on guided tours by local guides and had dialogue with the people. An important thing to know is to bring plenty of small increments of money with you(Cuban money only) to tip for all kinds of service because the people make extremely low amounts of money, they depend on tips. All citizens are given free education, medical care, rent, and rations of food by the government, and tipping helps tremendously improve the quality of life. 
Visiting a famous mansion now turned restaurant in the city of Cienfuegos
Beautiful doors inside the mansion
The scene as the cruise ship pulls away Santiago. An eclectic, culturally rich city that has the highest population of afro Cubans in the country.
A beautiful sunset leaving the beautiful city of Santiago.
A Cuban style meal in a local restaurant, whole fish and lobster
One of the biggest lobster tails I’ve seen.
Cuba is not only known for its cigars, but also their rum.
This meal was everything!
This flan was the most delicious that I’ve ever eaten
Exploring a fort located Santiago
Be sure to join me for part 3 when I give you a glimpse of the friendly Cuban people.
Thanks for sharing! Cuba looks so fun!
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It was so much fun! I’m so happy I took advantage of the trip when I did because is changing so quickly, we don’t know what the future holds.
Thanks for checking out my blog.
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