Thursday, May 21, 2015

Cuba: The People

“For centuries, Cuba's greatest resource has been its people.”
- Pico Iyer -

Cuba is wonderfully diverse; a multi-ethnic country that is home to over 11,000,000 people of mixed heritage.




Cubans are very hospitable. They are warm and talkative and enthusiastic and remarkably friendly with tourists.




Because they are not slaves to technological gadgets like smartphones and computers, the people spend a lot of their time outdoors socializing and enjoying their surroundings.




So full of life, you’d be hard pressed to run across a Cuban who isn’t passionate about the arts, particularly playing music and dancing.





They are extremely patriotic, love their country and are very proud of their health and education systems, both of which are completely free.




Our trip was certainly made memorable by the welcoming Cubans we met along the way in their beautiful country.

Hanging out at the Malecón (the pier); one of Havana's most cherished attractions.

Wishing you all a fantastic day ahead!

26 comments:

  1. It sounds like a wonderful place! They are quite rightly proud of all they have built in Cuba despite decades of economic sanctions.

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    1. You bet, Debra. They've managed to keep going despite that.

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  2. This place looks like a photographer's dream, you have captured some gorgeous images.

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    1. It truly is a photographer's dream! I only brought along a couple of point and shoot cameras but I would love to go on a photo shoot with my other gear.

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  3. What great photos. I love them all.

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    1. Thanks, Wonder Woman. Have a wonderful time on your staycation!

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  4. Makes one want to throw away their gadgets and get out and enjoy life! Great pictures!

    betty

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    1. It sure does, Betty. And yet here I am on my computer :)

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  5. I think I have to go there. You've convinced me of it. Thank you.

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  6. Loved the photos and stories from your trip! One of the benefits of travel is meeting so many nice people.

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    1. Meeting new people (and nice ones at that) is always the best!

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  7. A very unique and varied culture, Martha.
    Great photos of a great trip!

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    1. It sure is, Jim. What an amazing thing it is to visit other countries and learn about their culture.

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  8. Fabulous photos! Thank you for sharing! I've only ever heard wonderful things about Cuba and its people from those I know who have visited! :)

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    1. It is a very beautiful country and it's quite a unique experience.

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  9. I'm sure that you present yourself as friendly so people respond to you in that way.

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    1. Thanks, Red. I certainly try my best to be courteous to everyone. And you are right; most people respond in a friendly manner if you approach them that way.

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  10. Thanks Martha, I never been to Cuba and now I feel like through your lenses, I had a little peek.

    I love the shot of the lady behind the counter in the small earth pastel color cafe and the man. He is holing her arm in a friendly way and she seems lost in their share moment!

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    1. You noticed that! I bet you're one of the few who is that observant. The Cuban people are like that. Very warm, friendly and affectionate.

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  11. Love seeing the slice of life in Cuba. It does look like such a fantastic visit!

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  12. Lovely place, and must surely visit someday. Nice photos, loved the one with the painter and his dog. Many thanks for sharing!

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    1. The painter and his dog is my favourite one. Such a happy fella!

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