Before I arrived in Cuba, I knew about the island’s intense history, classic cars that roam the streets, delicious food, and cocktails. I did not, however, give much thought to the people who inhabit the country, which is crazy for someone who loves street photography.
For me, travel is a reset. If I leave a country without feeling my very DNA has been altered, then it wasn’t a successful trip. When I go somewhere, I want to be moved. I want my comfort levels to be challenged, and I want to be exposed to new cultures. One cannot visit Cuba without being challenged and exposed.
I quickly became enamored with Cubans. Everything I thought they might be like was wrong. The first thing I noticed was how generous Cubans are with what they have, which isn’t much. They are a giving people. The second thing I noticed was how classy they are. For a population that struggles with poverty, you see people who take pride in their appearances. The third thing I noticed was their joy. Cubans find joy in the big and small things.
As the plane took off from Havana, I immediately missed the people I encountered, and I hope to return soon.
For more photos of Cubans, click here.
Cuba stories:
Visiting Churches in Havana
Baseball in Havana
Visiting the Prodanza Ballet Studio
Visiting the Rafael Trejo Boxing Gimnasio, the Oldest Boxing Gym in Cuba
Photos from Cuba