Havana, Cuba - Beautiful People; Unforgettable Experience
Traveling to Cuba is an unforgettable, eye-opening experience. We were fortunate enough to make several trips to Havana after President Obama's historic lifting of US travel restrictions and before Donald Trump's reinstatement of the financial embargo.
Flying from Atlanta, Georgia to Havana is a quick 2 1/2 hour non-stop journey via Delta Airlines from Hartsfield Jackson International Airport to Jose Marti International Airport in Havana. The United States and Cuba are separated by less than 100 miles, yet landing in Havana transport you back to a remote place and time.
Watching people gather in the parks, roadside shops and bus stops truly demonstrate the peaceful lifestyles of Cubans.
Older and young adults are eager to engage in a friendly conversation or wave from their passing cars or motorcycles.
Children are quick to pose for the camera during their leisurely breaks from playing or homework.
Families gather in their small apartments with open doors that welcome brief visits from neighbors or watching the activities of the busy streets of Old Havana.
The butcher's shop (with pick-up window) blends with the apartment-style homes distinguished only by the assortments of meetings hanging in the window.
The people of Havana are true entrepreneurs as evident by the variety of mobile businesses such as this traveling florist. It is very enlightening to witness the resourcefulness of the people of Havana.
The panoramic view from the upper lounge of Habana Hotel Libre is simply breathtaking as the sun set over the Straits of Florida.
Strolling along the Malecon in Havana is a delightful way to meet locals, relax and watch the sunset. This 5-mile seafront promenade is a favorite place for locals and tourist to escape the busy pace of Havana.
Havana is one of the most exciting Caribbean destinations. My travel was purely work-related, but I certainly hope that soon all Americans get an opportunity to explore Havana and meet the wonderful people of Cuba.
