The Cuban Experience
Cuba's Capital, most especially Old Havana, is full of tourists from around the world. Although the average Cuban doesn't earn enough to afford a car, a common tourist attraction is to take in the classic vintage cars, many dating from 1935 - 1960.
Cruising along the Malecon
The energy, the people, and the sounds of the Malecon are regularly enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. As dusk approaches, the promenade fills with people looking to enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront. During windy days, waves crash over the sea wall drenching anything in their way.
Architectural Gems
Old Havana holds some of the world's most impressive and historic architecture, with some buildings dating back to the 16th century. Unfortunately, due to lack of funding, many haven't been restored in decades, and risk crumbling. Portions of this building, in the background, are held up by wooden structures, a common sight throughout Old Havana.
The Simple, but Good, Life
Despite its abundance of beauty, life can be challenging within Cuba, especially for the aging population. While Cuba is a poor country by many measures, the Cuban people don’t face many of the same conditions as most others in poor countries. For example, both healthcare and education are available to all, with literacy rates nearing 100%, according to UNESCO. While many have little disposable income, many live a much simpler life, but very few are actually homeless.
It's Bananas
Food supply can be limited in Cuba, most especially as the rise in tourism continues. As examples, locals mention limited availability of eggs or vegetables depending on the time of year.
Further, given that tourists pay higher rates for goods, generating incremental income for the government, locals are sadly not permitted to purchase several types of foods. For example, Lobster sales are restricted, available only to tourists and for export.
Basic Supplies
While healthcare is available to all, at times, stores can lack basic supplies or lines can be longer than anticipated. When supplies are available, many rush to grab what they can, when they can. Here a woman, patiently, waits for her turn at a local pharmacy in hopes that have what she is looking for.
Capitalism Saving Socialism
With typical wages ranging from $400 a year for a factory worker to $8500 a year for a doctor, many run small businesses to generate additional income. For you instance, to help provide for his family, Juan sells coffee and cigars to local customers, early each morning.
Entrepreneurship
With temperatures nearing 90F (32 C), this man works tirelessly, in a small concrete room, manually crushing can after can in hopes of generating additional income. The work is hard, but it's work.
Juxtaposition
There's a clear dichotomy between not only tourists and locals, but also between older and younger Cubans.
The contrast between posters of Fidel Castro, or Che Guevara, and the clothing representing the flag of the United States, both quite common in Havana.
With Change Comes Opportunity
This taxi driver picks up passengers in his vintage car, updated with a modern-day radio. While not welcomed by all - with a rapidly aging population, both enhancements in technology accessible by the Cuban people and the younger minority are driving change - in one way or another.
Catalyst of Change
After class, these high school students play volleyball with their first game being the girls against the boys. The girls took the first set.
Cuba ranks 3rd in the world for the most female representation in government, with women driving important change from within. Realizing that gender empowerment is political empowerment, women are actively involved in local politics, acting as a catalyst for change.
Captivating Smiles
Due to their tight social network and outgoing attitude, Cubans seem happy - often smiling, chatting, and hugging one another.
One thing is certain, however. While many support change and rethinking the economy, almost none want to live in a Cuba, regardless of wealth, without free education, free healthcare, and low violent crime rates. As Castro's rule comes to an end, change will happen, with many hoping that it will be on their terms.
