(Tropicana Club)
Cuba: Tourism & Politics, Family
Overview
“Cuba Si, Castro No!” These were the famous last words of the Cuban-American community in Miami the night of November 25th, 2016 as they chanted in celebration of Dictator Fidel Castro’s demise. Growing up a product of the Cuban exile experience in Miami, I was taught from an early age to have pride in my heritage and denounce anything resembling the socialist ideals that ruined the once-prosperous nation. While both of these traits still hold true in my life today, I’ve always had a burning passion and curiosity about the origins of my culture and family roots. I was afforded the opportunity nearly 3 years ago to travel to the island with my mother where we were able to experience Cuba firsthand and uncover pieces of our family history. This occasion was and always will be one of the most sacred experiences of my lifetime, including walking through an old family home and seeing the church where my father was baptized. However, being a Cuban-American in Miami and mentioning a trip of this nature to anyone will garner a very polarizing reaction, to say the least. The older generations perceive me as being a Castro sympathizer for traveling to Cuba while the younger generations see me going to the island as a novelty. My response to everyone is that I’m not a socialist nor a vapid traveler looking for my next Instagram moment, but rather a passionate, Cuban millennial in search of connecting with my heritage. While the relationship between both the American & Cuban governments is strained, to say the least, it seems that no American President has been able to mend the issues between both our peoples. My dream for the people of Cuba would be to live in a free country, one that works for all and holds the sanctity of democracy above any one person. However, I too am not naive and understand this is a long-term hope of mine. What I pray for in the near future is that one day, our two governments can discuss a plausible reconnection. One where we somehow hold the Cuban government accountable yet also make way for American dollars to generate through their economy. This, in turn, would make way for more Cuban entrepreneurs to open restaurants, bars, and Airbnb rentals; tourism being the only way for financial freedom outside of the caste-like system that still exists today. Wishing for a democracy seems far-fetched at this moment in time, yet creating an entrepreneurial spirit for the Cuban people in the tourism sector would make way for financial independence. Capitalism may not be perfect, but it is certainly a move in the positive direction towards more freedom for the Cuban people.
(Café Laurent)
(Atelier)
The following is an account of my experience traveling to Cuba from what I know best, culture & cuisine. I do not glorify the Castro regime or the policies in which they have in place to intimidate, harm, and murder, innocent civilians, when speaking out against the government. The aim of this post is to highlight Cuban exceptionalism through the culinary, performing, and visual artforms. Being born on the privileged side of history is something I don’t take for granted and my wish is that we all can one day see the extraordinary Cuban people live in a free nation.
(Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski)
Where to Dine:
La Guarida - Iconic Havana Institution, Exceptional Cuisine
Café Laurent - Cute Rooftop Restaurant, Great Views
La Bodeguita del Medio- Hemingway Bar, Old Havana
Atelier - Relaxing Home-like Atmosphere
Where to Stay:
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski - Luxury Hotel, Modern, Best Rooftop
Saratoga Havana - Old School, Central Havana Institution
Hotel Nacional - Iconic, Water Views
Airbnb - House Rental
(La Guarida)
Where to Play:
Fábrica de Arte - Edgy, Art Space, Nightclub
Vintage Car Tour - 1950s Car Ride & Tour
El Malecon - Famous, Waterfront Boulevard
Tropicana Club - Iconic, Club & Show
(Café Laurent)
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