Since having visited Havana in the late 1950’s, just before the Revolution, I’ve had an interest and curiosity of the city and Cuba ever since. Travelerlynne and I had the opportunity to visit Cuba recently for a few days on a People to People cultural exchange. Havana was not at all what I expected in some ways and far exceeded my expectations in most ways.
While many of the city’s grand old buildings are badly deteriorated, the city itself is busy and vibrant.
Traffic is heavy and the ubiquitous Yank Tanks, classic US cars, amazingly, continue to roll on like the sands of time, thanks to the ingenuity of the Cuban people. A metaphor of Cuba itself.
These cars found their way to Cuba during the 1950’s when the post war prosperity pervaded the US and its tiny island neighbor to the south. Cuba was a playground for wealthy Americans and life was good for them, though not so for most Cubans. This all ended in 1960 with the US embargo against Cuba. Since then, these American turned Cuban cars are kept running because of their owner’s repair skills and inventiveness. Spare parts from Russian and Chinese cars, trucks, and farm machinery are often adapted to the Yank Tanks.
The people we met along the way made our brief visit most memorable. They are warm, friendly and welcoming. They love their country and are eager to share their stories. While life is still not easy for most, it is much improved in recent years. It seems that while almost everyone has relatives living overseas, especially in the US, most have no desire to join them. In fact, some we met had lived elsewhere and returned “home.”
There is a rhythm to Cuba. A hot, vibrant Salsa beat. And you hear it everywhere. Every neighborhood, every car radio, every restaurant. But the musical heart and soul of Cuba is Rumba; percussive rhythms, song, and dance. Traditions brought by slaves from Africa. Rumba means party and Cubans know how to party. We were treated to a rooftop rumba in the heart of Havana by a local group of musicians, singers, and dancers. It was a blast. The group was incredibly talented, the afternoon hot and perfect, and the setting surreal. For me, the highlight of the trip.
The countryside of Cuba is beautiful. Heading west to Vinales the terrain is at first rolling hills and then low mountains. The foliage is tropical, of course, and temperatures a little cooler than Havana. This is one of the main tobacco growing regions for Cuba’s famous cigars. We spend an afternoon in Vinales, a sleepy little town of friendly people, watching cigars being made, sipping rum, and listening to, what else, a salsa band.
A visit to Havana would not be complete without spending an evening under the stars at the world renown Tropicana cabaret and nightclub. The high energy, over-the-top show starts at 10PM and lasts to well past midnight. The Las Diosas de Carne (Flesh Goddesses), as the showgirls are known, are barely clad in sequins and feathers. The Tropicana opened in 1939 and has been going strong ever since, reaching its most outlandish in the late 1950s just before the Revolution. Nonetheless, it is not to be missed. Did I mention, a bottle of Havana Club rum comes with the price of admission?
As you may have gathered, Cuba is a land of contrasts. The people are friendly and eager to share their stories. They love their country but wish they had more opportunities. Havana is a vibrant, beautiful city but stuck in the 1950s. The architecture is grand and elegant, but often buildings are crumbling. Shops are few and poorly stocked. Western influence is almost non existent. No Starbucks, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Target, Walmart, etc., yet everyone seems to find what they need and are generally optimistic.
As I said, Cuba was not what I expected, but more than I expected.
Further posts about Cuba are coming up. If you would like to be notified by email of new posts just click on the “Follow” tab at the lower right of this page.
Related article: Looking Beyond Crumbling ~ Havana.
Tina Schell
12 May 2013Truly wonderful post Ron – just loved ALL of the photos. Hard to choose a favorite but the opening shot is a stunner!!
fotograffer
13 May 2013As always, thank you Tina, my friend. I am glad you enjoyed the post.
Playamart - Zeebra Designs
12 May 2013i loved this post as well! so far the opening shot hasn’t loaded, so i look forward to later tonight when the internet service improves. i love the two images of that old bulding, the stairs, the history in its peeling walls, etc. there’s another photo where the car dominates the image.. that’s really nice as well! the rumba on the roof – yes, i can understand why that would be a great memory!
fotograffer
13 May 2013LIsa, Havana certainly was beautiful in its heyday and is beautiful today, but in a much different way.
Angeline M
12 May 2013Great post! Cuba fascinates me; so good to me able to see it through your posts.
fotograffer
13 May 2013Thanks Angeline. I am so glad you enjoyed the post. Cuba IS a fascinating place.
The Wanderlust Gene
12 May 2013Yes, this is a fantastic post, Ron. The photographs are terrific, embued with the vibrancy and colour of the people and their simple – rhythnmic – way of life, and we’re able to see a cross section of Cuba today – such a treat and far from the usual ‘resort’ photos mostly available to us. Can’t choose a favourite really, though perhaps the first, for its wonderful perspective of the waves and the buildings, and i adore those peeling old stairways and lobbys – so grungy, so retro/romantic! But it’s up on that roottop I’d like to be, dancing … 🙂
fotograffer
13 May 2013Meredith, thank you so much. Your comment are always right on. And yes, we ALL were dancing before the afternoon passed.
speeddemon2
12 May 2013I hope that one day I can see Cuba for myself until then I will have to satisfy my curiosity by viewing the images of others. I love the compositions and the colors you have so skillfully captured in these images. Thanks for sharing them with us.
fotograffer
13 May 2013Thanks Nick. I am sure you will get there before long. I enjoy you Linkedin updates.
ckponderings
13 May 2013Steeling my thunder (I returned from Cuba on Friday and have started my postings today!), but what a way to do it! Some amazing images here – and Tropicana summed up beautifully too! 😀
fotograffer
13 May 2013Thank you. I hope you enjoyed you trip as much as we did ours. So many photo possibilities. Thanks for visiting.
ckponderings
13 May 2013Reblogged this on ckponderings and commented:
Some images that I am sure will put my coming posts to shame… Hasta la victoria siempre!
fotograffer
13 May 2013Thank you so much for reblogging and you kind comment.
ckponderings
13 May 2013No problem at all! 🙂
Madhu
13 May 2013Fabulous images Ron! Every single one. Makes me want to pack my bags NOW 🙂
fotograffer
13 May 2013Manhu, I hope you will. I am sure you wouldn’t be disappointed. Thanks for your comment.
Madhu
3 Aug 2013Congratulations on being Freshly Pressed Ron. Well deserved. But then every one of your posts are 🙂
fotograffer
4 Aug 2013Thank you Madhu, you are too kind.
tripodtrippin
13 May 2013You’ve taken me right there with your wonderful images, Ron. Thanks for that. Will be returning for another look to take it all in. 🙂
fotograffer
13 May 2013Thanks Tripodtrippin. I look forward to seeing you again. 🙂
ilargia64
13 May 2013Dear Ron…
I really enjoyed this post…Pics are great, and you have been able to see happiness, rythm and warm inside cuban´s hearts…Every person I know that has been there comes back with the same feeling…I really envy you…I would love to see it by myself…
fotograffer
13 May 2013Thank you for your kind comment. Indeed, it is a lovely place with wonderful people. I do hope you will be able to see it all for yourself.
mobius faith
13 May 2013Thank you for showing us heaven.
fotograffer
13 May 2013Thank you and thanks for visiting.
Sandy & Ron Nelson
13 May 2013Ron & Lynne,
The photos are fabulous. Cuba is nothing like what I expected! I want to go right now to the Tropitcania to Dance the Rumba……..
Have a couple Rum Drinks……..Mmmmmmm, sounds wonderful after seeing your fabulous photo’s. Thank you for sharing.
FIND ANY MERMAIDS?
LOVE YA, SANDY, RON & CONAL TOO!
fotograffer
15 May 2013I think I saw a mermaid swimming in my mojito! Thanks for visiting. You must be liking your new computer.
Jack McManus
13 May 2013Outstanding work. Makes me want to just pick up the camera and head south.
fotograffer
15 May 2013Thanks Jack, for you encouraging comment. You should go.
Paula
13 May 2013Fabulous photos! I believe my favorite is the crashing waves, too, But, close contenders would be the portrait of the grinning old man and the Rooftop Rumba shots that follow..Love that swirling blue skirt!
fotograffer
15 May 2013Paula, thank you for your kind comment. The malecon with the crashing waves seems to be a favorite. We missed you guys.
Andy Bergsten
14 May 2013Hey Ron, As a new member of the pine Island club I thank you for sharing these . I look forward to getting to know you and sharing photo thought. Andy Bergsten
fotograffer
15 May 2013Hi Andy. Thank you for commenting and look forward to meeting you.
herb Paynter
16 May 2013Ron, your shots are simply spectacular. But obviously only part of the credit goes to the camera and lens. You, my friend, are a very fine photographer!
fotograffer
16 May 2013Thank you Herb, for your king comment. I am glad to liked the images.
Mickey Sterling
16 May 2013Ron; wonderful pictures. I really enjoyed them, several times ,and especially like your comments. What a variety of photos but especially fun to see the cars and how amazing they look! Thanks for showing them – now I am anxious to see more!!
fotograffer
17 May 2013Thanks Mickey. I am happy you enjoyed it and am glad you found your way here. 🙂
Nick & Jane Mohar
16 May 2013Can’t wait to do Pho and here all about Cuba.
fotograffer
17 May 2013Thanks. We are looking forward to it too. 🙂
Ralph Quinonez
17 May 2013Great shots Ron!! You got stuff up so fast….I better get on it!
fotograffer
17 May 2013Thank you Ralph. As the say, “no rest for the weary!”
Helen Cherry
17 May 2013It seems several of us have been to Cuba lately!! 😀
fotograffer
17 May 2013Thanks Helen. Hope you enjoyed your experience as much as we did.
Linda Ozag
18 May 2013Outstanding photography. You got to the heart of the people. You travel with magic! Hope to visit myself some day. It’s been my dream to see the island.
fotograffer
21 May 2013Linda, thanks for your lovely comment. I hope you get the chance to visit Cuba. The country is changing rapidly and quickly loosing much of its “Old Cuba charm.”
Pingback: Looking Beyond Crumbling Buildings ~ Havana | On the Go with Lynne
adinparadise
19 May 2013Fabulous photos, Ron. I love the one of the guy in the hat in the red car. Very cool. 🙂
fotograffer
21 May 2013Thank you so much my friend. The guy you mentioned was a perfect match with his ’57 Chevy convertible, and he knew it. 🙂
catbirdinoman
19 May 2013Ron, these photos are stunning!! You’re an amazing photographer. I love how Cuba is stuck in time from the 1950s. The old cars, colorful crumbling buildings, bright colors, lively citizens ~ all these are what I would expect to see in Cuba and you have captured its essence perfectly. What is this cultural program called? Do you have a link for it? I would love to look into going on this trip before Western influence creeps in! 🙂
fotograffer
21 May 2013Yes, Cuba is stuck in the ’50s, but is changing rapidly. There are a lot of opportunities for Americans to travel to Cuba. Try Googling “cultural exchange travel Cuba.” Thanks Cathy, for your wonderful comments. I am glad you have enjoyed Lynne’s and my posts on Cuba. There is much more to come.
Paul Heck
21 May 2013Nice work. I liked the portraits and the shots of the interiors. Nice feel to the images. What did you shoot with, what gear did you take with you?
fotograffer
28 May 2013Thank you Paul. I use the Panasonic Lumix GH3 and two lenses. I plan to write about my photo gear in some detail in a future post.
Carlos R. Martinez C (@CrafaelCarlos)
22 May 2013Vos photos de Cuba sont magnifiquement touchantes, malgré leurs difficultés existentielles, les cubains sont un peuple adorable, bravo pour ce beau témoignage Ron
fotograffer
28 May 2013Thank you Carlos for your encouraging comment. Yes, the Cubans are delightful people.
Drake Sprague
22 May 2013Wonderful photo exposé of a land trapped in time!
fotograffer
28 May 2013Thanks Drake. Yes, Cuba is trapped in time but things are changing quickly.
nicoramos
22 May 2013Muy buenas y muy ilustrativas tus fotografías
fotograffer
28 May 2013Thank you Nicoramos. I appreciate your compliment.
warren munroe
24 May 2013Wonderful series here.
fotograffer
28 May 2013Thanks Warren. There is much more about Cuba to come!
Bams Triwoko
25 May 2013Great gallery… two thumbs up, Ron… 😀
fotograffer
28 May 2013Thanks Bams. Coming from you that is a real compliment!
Neely Wang
27 May 2013What a great collection of photos, Ron! You did a wonderful job capturing the vibrancy and local flavor of the town! My favorites (though I loved them all!) were the first one and the cigars with the hands rolling them.
fotograffer
28 May 2013Thank you Neely. I so appreciate your work so your comment means all the more. Surprisingly, the cigar maker image is more popular than I would have thought.
Sally Traidman
28 May 2013Absolutely gorgeous pictures. I was there a year ago, but you captured it soooo much better.
fotograffer
28 May 2013Thank you so much Sally. I am sure your photos are fantastic. Sometimes we are our our worst critic. 🙂
David Paul Martino III
29 May 2013¡espectacular!
fotograffer
31 May 2013Muchas Gracias.
Heather Simonds
3 Jun 2013Cuba is a very photographic place. I, too have a few posts on Cuba on my site, concentrating on street photography.
Laurie
15 Jun 2013Great shots! I have been enjoying your Cuba posts.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you Laurie. I always look forward to your new posts as well.
fgassette
21 Jun 2013AMAZING PHOTOS OF CUBA! Thank you so much for sharing. I’ve never been there and now I have by way of your photos.
BE ENCOURAGED! NE BLESSED!
fotograffer
24 Jun 2013Thank you for your kind words. I am so glad the images.
Marcia Clarke
27 Jun 2013Wonderful images of Cuba, you captured its past and present beautifully. I dream of visiting one day; until then I live vicariously. Thanks for visiting ny blog, much appreciated.
fotograffer
1 Jul 2013Thank you Marcia. The pleasure was all mine. I am happy you’re enjoyed my Cuba post.
restlessjo
28 Jun 2013Fabulous post, Ron. You make Cuba come alive in front of my very eyes. 🙂
fotograffer
1 Jul 2013Thanks Jo. Cuba is a special place for Lynne and me.
segmation
2 Jul 2013Looks like you had a wonderful and educational time. I know that I will never make it to Cuba, but I appreciate you awesome digital shots. Thanks for sharing.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Yes, our time in Cuba was wonderful. Thank you for your kind comment. I am glad you enjoyedmthempost.
Allen Capoferri
2 Jul 2013Very cool photographs!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you Allen.
fine2bewith
2 Jul 2013It is really amazing to relive Havana and its glory.What a wonderful people and place.I love it.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Glad you enjoyed the post. Thank you.
Heather C.J. Atkins
2 Jul 2013Beautiful photos, I hope to also make it to Cuba some day.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thanks. You won’t regret going!
pinkbarsandrockstars
2 Jul 2013Gorgeous eye for photography. Each photo invoked a different emotion. Well done!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you Sara Beth. And thanks for visiting.
rhettbigler
2 Jul 2013Fantastic pictures and a great post. I have some Cuban friends and they are very much like you describe – vibrant, positive, eager to share about their country, and inventive (we even have a joke about Cubanizing something to fix it). They left for better opportunity to pursue their scientific research.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thanks. The people is what makes Cuba special. In spite of their government’s oppression, or maybe because of it, their spirits how’s through.
rhettbigler
4 Jul 2013Absolutely agreed. I think that you convey that with your post, along with some fantastic pictures!
uglicoyote
2 Jul 2013Reblogged this on Visions In My Mind.
chrismartinez956
2 Jul 2013Beautiful pictures! Thanks for sharing this.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013You are welcome. The pleasure is mine.
karldrobnic
2 Jul 2013Great post…I remember the pre-Castro Cuba, also. Thanks for the photo update.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013You are welcome. Thanks for stopping by.
Stephanie Williamson-Brittian
2 Jul 2013I love Cuba – albeit only in fantasy. The pictures are lovely and really allow us to see the city and culture. I especially like the photos of every day street life. Thank you for sharing, I’m glad I came across you blog.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013It pleases me that you enjoyed my post. Thank you.
Sixty Eight West
2 Jul 2013I’ve always wanted to go myself and this has just fueled my fire. Beautiful Images!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013I hope you get the chance to go soon. Thanks for visiting.
ashton manswell
2 Jul 2013nicely delivered, and the photography was just amazing…great post!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thanks Ashton and thanks for visiting.
Patti Kuche
2 Jul 2013Wow, jam packed with so many colourful and vibrant scenes! A fabulous collection and as good as being there . . . . I wish!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Patti, thank you for your gracious comment. I am glad you enjoyed the post.
jalal michael sabbagh.http://gravatar.com/jmsabbagh86@gmail.com/jmsabbagh86@gmail.com
2 Jul 2013Exquisite post.Fantastic pictures.jalal
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you so much.
sixdegreesphotography
2 Jul 2013This is fabulous..thank you so much for the “visual field trip”..Well deserved of being Freshly Pressed!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thanks for your kind comment.
eatshoploveblog
2 Jul 2013So, so amazing. I’ve had Cuba on my ‘must-see’ destinations and this has only made me more determined to visit one day. Loved this post.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013I hope you can go – sooner rather than later. Cuba is changing. Thanks for your kind remarks
eatshoploveblog
4 Jul 2013Changing how? It’s more than likely later haha.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Fortunately for the Cubans, their standard of living seems to be slowly improving and some of the “old Cuba” charm is being lost.
neonspndx
2 Jul 2013I went there a few years ago and found it to be just incredible. The people were inviting and their culture was shared heart to heart. I felt like I wanted to stay longer. These photos are stunning.
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Most people who go feel,as,you and I do. There is a lot wrong with Cuba, as there is every where, but the friendliness, warmth, and spirit of the Cuban people is what makes it so special.
the tow path
2 Jul 2013Cuba has always been near the top of my list to visit. I would have LOVED to have gone before the embargo!
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Thank you for commenting. You should go if you get the chance. Cuba is changing quickly.
Mz Zoomer
2 Jul 2013First, congrats on being freshly pressed. I am thrilled that you were as I now have an opportunity to follow you. This post was just wonderful and your photos really excellent. I can tell that you really do love Cuba.
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Thank you Mz. Indeed, Cuba was a wonderful experience.
Mz Zoomer
3 Jul 2013You are very welcome. If I am lucky I too will visit Cuba some day. You certainly make it appealing.
Fiona Wright
2 Jul 2013With words as gripping as your images are stunning, this is a post I’ll continue to revisit. What a wonderful vibe.
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Thank you for your kind comment, Fiona. I he to have more on Cuba in the near future.
pezcita
2 Jul 2013“Yank tanks” – there’s an expression I’ve never heard before!
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013I can’t lay claim to coining it, but it certainly is descriptive. Thanks for stopping by.
bluebeadpublications
2 Jul 2013My father’s family is from Cuba. Although I live in Miami, I feel distanced from that culture. Your pics are stunning. I forgot for a few minutes I have never been there.
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Understandably, many of your generation do feel distanced. I fear I may be over- generalizing, but it seems to me there is a great difference between the Cuban American culture of Miami and cuba’s culture. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
vnp1210
2 Jul 2013Fabulous post! Beautiful photos and words.
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Thank you my friend
caravanserai230
2 Jul 2013Wow, wow, wow! I love this post. Thank you!
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013And a thanks to you for your visit and comment. 🙂
mankwe
3 Jul 2013I was fortunate to see Los Van Van and the Roots perform in Havana! Such a special place! Amazing photography thank you!
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013That had to have been a wonderful experience. Thanks for your kind comment and for visiting.
lynngailphotography
3 Jul 2013fantastic work………great vibe going on in your pics : )
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Lynn, thank you. The Cuban people get all the credit for the “great vibe.”
thomasnwafor
3 Jul 2013Great post…. I would love to go there just to get away from the corporate high street, and the fact that people return to live from other counties says it all. I am looking at the price for flights as soon as I stop writing…………………… great post
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Thomas, thank you so much. I truly he you get the chance to visit Cuba. Despite the oppressive government and their hardships, Cuba has a spirit like no place else.
dalo2013
3 Jul 2013Beautiful photography, each photo tells a story…a very rich story. Wonderful. Add to that your great story telling and words. Great post, and look forward to reading & seeing more.
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013I am so pleased you enjoyed “Cuba.” It was a wonderful experience and I hope to share more about Cuba in the near future.
Jessica
3 Jul 2013Incredible post on a place I’d love to go. Wonderful photos. Truly impressed. Glad you enjoyed your trip!
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Thank you Jessica, for you kind words. I hope the get the opportunity to visit Cuba.
GMzwebworks
3 Jul 2013Reblogged this on gmzwebworks.
jemmamcguffie1bhnd
3 Jul 2013Great photography and fab article, keep up the good work.
fotograffer
3 Jul 2013Thank you so much for your kind comment and encouragement.
Adrian Pantonial
3 Jul 2013Awesome photos!
fotograffer
5 Jul 2013Thank you Adrian.
lalarukh1
3 Jul 2013What an amazing phoyography….Love the pictures and the message 🙂 Good luck for your work 🙂
http://www.foodpeopleloveandstuff.wordpress.com
cerrosolo
3 Jul 2013Getting to experience the culture and really get to know people is so often missed in travel these days. We recently had the opportunity to meet and talk with several Garifuna, a Central American people. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garifuna_people I welcome the day when more have the opportunity to visit and experience Cuba, but worry that the special culture there will struggle against the tide of American influence.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013You are so right on all counts. Cuba is changing and will change rapidly if the embargo is lifted. Thanks for you comments.
nerdgeistofficial
3 Jul 2013These photos where truly beautiful, it shows a side of a place not many people get to see
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you so much for your observation.
Mary Beth
3 Jul 2013Wonderful photos! Always wanted to go to Cuba, thanks for the tour.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you. Hope you can go.
ampbreia
3 Jul 2013Great pictures! What a fun and magical place that looks to be!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Absolutely a fun place. Thanks.
Xenia Antipova
3 Jul 2013Amazing photography, you really portrayed the essence and character of the place and people!! I’ve always wanted to go to Havana – thanks for the great post.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you Xenia. I am happy you liked to post.
Xenia Antipova
5 Jul 2013You mention that it is modernizing. This is inevitable, but what I want to ask: what do you think the window of time is on being able to experience the Cuba that you depicted?
alainsworth
3 Jul 2013Stunning photography! I also very much enjoyed how you captured the Cubans’ ability to keep the “Yank tanks” running. When I visited Cuba several years ago, that stood out to me, as well.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Al, thanks you for your kind words. The Yank Tanks and the Cubans tenacity to keep them running is a metaphor for Cuba.
Photog Ali
3 Jul 2013Such a great collection! I’m torn between going sooner with my Photography skills still very ‘green’ or later when I’ll have improved but the embargo potentially lifted. decisions decisions!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013My advice would be to go sooner rather than later. Cuba is changing quickly and that will accelerate if the embargo is lifted.
alyssapennell
3 Jul 2013amazing photographs. My grandparents move to America in 1959 so this was very neat to see knowing the history of Cuba. I would love to visit one day.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013I am happy you enjoyed the post and hope you get the chance to visit one day.
ruthvioletjem23
3 Jul 2013Cuba looks amazing and well neighboring with Mexico reminds me so much of it, thank you for sharing your visit to Cuba. The photos are fantastic!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you Ruth for your kind comment.
ruthvioletjem23
4 Jul 2013Your welcome!
nearlynormalized
3 Jul 2013You did well—Life without Wal-Mart, Starbucks how can it be. People and the joy of life…Thank you.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you my friend.
nearlynormalized
5 Jul 2013You are so welcome.
Roberta McDonnell
3 Jul 2013photos are fantastic, a vibrant slice of real life and deeply inspiring – Cuba has been on my wish list for some time. Co-incidentally I just read The Old Man and the Sea. Brilliant, thank you 🙂
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you Roberta. Cuba is beautiful and I hope you can visit soon. The Hemingway book if one of my favorites and you remind me I should dust it off and give it another reading.
40 But Whos Counting
3 Jul 2013Inspired Have just moved it well up on the bucket list……
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thanks. Cuba is high on many bucket lists, and deservedly so.
40 But Whos Counting
5 Jul 2013I cant believe how fantastic it is your photos where just amazing
I could almost smell taste hear and feel it
Love
Laura
3 Jul 2013I’ve always wanted to visit Cuba, and now even more so after reading this post! Your photos are just lovely and it seems like you captured so many wonderful slices of life there.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Cuba is beautiful but is slowly but surely modernizing. I hope you get the chance to visit soon. Thanks for your kind comments and happy travels.
The Roaming Bean
4 Jul 2013Awesome post! I am working on getting over to Cuba in the next few months (hopefully!) and this just makes me want to make it happen faster!
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013I hope you get to make the trip soon. Cuba is changing quickly. Thanks for visiting and for your comment.
Magdalene
4 Jul 2013I loved your blog. You have captured the essence of the country in such a beautiful way. I am from the Caribbean myself but I have never been to Cuba. I am longing to go now. Thank you for sharing.
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you Magdalene for you kind comment. Cuba is very much like other Caribbean island though culturally very unique. I hope you get the opportunity to visit Cuba soon.
out10about
4 Jul 2013Great post (photos and commentary) and congratulations on making it on Freshly Pressed
fotograffer
4 Jul 2013Thank you for your generous comment.
jencvt2002
4 Jul 2013What a wonderful way to start the morning – your photographs are wonderful!
jeanclaudepitre
4 Jul 2013Reblogged this on pitrejeanclaude and commented:
Really great pictures of Cuba ! A must to see !
evelynhill27
4 Jul 2013Amazing Photography, woah I would love to visit here!
Primalnights
4 Jul 2013Of all the cities in the world this is the one I most want to visit and the on I may never be allowed to see. Thank you so much.
NotesonFilm1
4 Jul 2013Absolutely gorgeous photos.
ME
4 Jul 2013Lovely photos…even of a city that contains so much decay.
Sublime Sound
4 Jul 2013Beautiful photos! My wife and I took a similar trip to Havana and Vinales. It’s a place that really gets under your skin and sticks with you. You’re right about the music too, it’s everywhere! I did some recording of various ambiences while I was there and used them to make an album of electronic music. You can read about our trip here: http://www.sublimesound.com
chickpiggy
5 Jul 2013Beautiful photography, loved the cars!
fotograffer
5 Jul 2013Thank you my friend.
Simon
5 Jul 2013Enjoyed reading your take on this city! Your photography is excellent. You have a new follower here so please be a busy blogger so I can see more! 🙂
fotograffer
5 Jul 2013I’ll do my best. 🙂 thank you.
swordfishradio
5 Jul 2013Great photos! I was largely disappointed by Havana if I’m honest. I was saddened by the very poor state of the infrastructure and also the way that money had clearly been put into certain parts of the city to attract tourists. Overpricing seemed to be common place. Sadly I don’t think I will ever return to Cuba. Good Luck.
mrsbeetlessupertips
5 Jul 2013Such beautiful images – the colours and atmosphere are wonderful
fotograffer
5 Jul 2013So much color and beauty wherever one looks. Thanks.
Katalina4
5 Jul 2013Havana is a photographer’s dream…. Great shots!
fotograffer
5 Jul 2013Indeed it is. Thank you.
Cameron Shea
5 Jul 2013I really enjoyed the photos, you have shed light on a very misunderstood country
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Thank you for your thoughtful comment.
theneatblog
5 Jul 2013Also loved Havanna when I visited! Really awesome post and great photos!
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Everyone I know who has been there loved it. Thanks.
mtoothacker
5 Jul 2013I love the old cars. Some of those photos could have been right out of the 50’s. what was it like then before the revolution? How old we’re you during your first visit?
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013I was a teenager. Tough my memories are a little faded it doesn’t seem like much has changed. Thanks for stopping by.
uditach
6 Jul 2013Hi I am from Kolkata, India and I must say that quite a few photographs of the Streets of Havana looked very much like those in Kolkata. Wonderful. 🙂
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013I couldn’t agree more. Kolkata hasn’t changed much since the late 1940s and Cuba since the late 1950s.
uditach
19 Jul 2013Actually some parts, it has. In the south kolkata thatis. North kolkata is pretty much the same!!! Like Havana!
fotograffer
19 Jul 2013Thanks for clarifying.
redmudstain
6 Jul 2013Fascinated with the US classic car presence outside of the US! Same here in Chiang Mai with the younger gen, though probably not as ubiquitous as in Havana. Interesting to see the contrast with the old and young, luxurious and modest.
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013I had no idea US classic cars were big in Chiang Mai. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Rohit Pansare
6 Jul 2013Love the pictures……! Cuba seems like a land lost in time….definitely a must visit…thanks for sharing!
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Thank you. I hope,you are able to go.
thespectatorssport.wordpress.com/
7 Jul 2013Wonderful photos; I love those old cars! I wonder, should Cuba become more integrated into the world, will it retain this uniqueness and beauty?
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Thanks. Things are slowly changing and as they say, “change is inevitable.”
Leshamoy
7 Jul 2013I absolutely love your photos. They capture the heart and soul of the people of Cuba.
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Thank you for your generous comment. I am glad you liked the post.
niccolosanavio
8 Jul 2013i really love your way of taking photos….you don’t just capture the landscape but also the soul of the people…..amazing!
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Thank you so much. The credit goes to the Cuban people.
Caroline Scott Low
8 Jul 2013Such vibrant photographs – very captivating!
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Caroline, thanks for your kind comment.
lifeofawillow
9 Jul 2013lovely.
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Thank you.
sugarvenom88
9 Jul 2013Beautiful photos Ron!
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Thank you so much.
ddeclaire
10 Jul 2013This is great idea for a blog. Can you give me some pointers on going to Cuba for the first time?
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013I would suggest googling “Cuba cultural exchange.”
Kathleen
12 Jul 2013Absolutely gorgeous photo’s!!!!
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Thanks Kathleen for your kind comment.
Mike Crape
13 Jul 2013Excellent post! Your images and writing provides an incredible picture of a place that you note as ‘land of contrasts’. Thanks for sharing your experience in such a great way.
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013You are so welcome Mike. Thanks you for commenting.
yelmy
13 Jul 2013I really really really liked this post. The photos are beyond fantastic and I have to say, I fell in love with the classic car models. This post has confirmed that I need to put Cuba on my travelling list so that, at the very least, I can indulge myself in looking at these beautiful cars stroll in those tiny streets. Though some people might see this as a bad thing, I actually think it’s good that Cuba doesn’t have any “Western influence” as you so put it. Because, if you’re going to a place like Cuba, you don’t want to visit a Starbucks Coffee Shop, or a KFC branch, you want to see Cuba in all its glorious simplicity; the beaches, the nightclubs, the rumba, the salsa that you just can’t help moving to in the middle of the street. Of course Cuba needs a lot of economic reforms to give its own people “more opportunities” as you said. But you just portrayed it as such a magical place. Thank you so much for sharing this experience, it helped me see a side of Cuba I didn’t know was there.
fotograffer
14 Jul 2013Wow Yelmy, thank you for your kind and thoughtful comment. A you mention, Cuba certainly has its woes but the people we met were so warm and friendly. Things seem to be slowly improving but who knows what the future holds.
yelmy
14 Jul 2013I can totally relate to the way you describe the Cubans, because that’s how most Egyptians are (I’m Egyptian, hi! :D). I don’t want to sound stereotypical but, I think it goes to say that for most what people scientifically describe as “developing countries” you seem to find this sort of simplistic goodness in their people, and I’m not saying that this quality strictly belongs to Cubans, Egyptians, or developing nations, but it’s something that I’ve noticed in most of the “developing countries” I’ve been fortunate enough to visit.
I look forward to read more of your travels. Have a nice day!
rajnishmishravns
18 Jul 2013The old section and buildings of my city are same as the ones of this post. Their deterioration is the same as that of mine: sad.
iseebeautyallaroundbyrobpaine
26 Jul 2013thanks for the great photos!
Carole
26 Jul 2013Much appreciated. Last year a photographer posted photos of his trip to North Korea. You never get a glimpse into North Korea so I was enamored. Now I have had the same experience with the beautiful, broad spectrum of photos here in Cuba. You captured it well and again, I thank you for sharing them.
fotograffer
4 Aug 2013Thanks so much for your kind comment. I am glad you enjoyed the post.
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Don
9 Sep 2013Reminds me of Puerto Rico and Panama (Canal Zone) about 30 years ago. I grew up in Puerto Rico in my elementary school years and graduated from Canal Zone College in 1968. I love the Latin beat. Music you just can’t turn off Ole, ole! Great photos. Thanks for sharing.
fotograffer
17 Sep 2013I would imagine so. Culturally very similar. Thanks for visiting.
theamateurcamera
21 Nov 2013Great post and fantastic photographs!
fotograffer
5 Dec 2013Thank you for your kind words.
Sony Fugaban
22 Nov 2013The photos just look so vivid and real you could almost feel the place around literally.
fotograffer
5 Dec 2013Thanks you for your kind compliment and thank you for visiting.
Sony Fugaban
5 Dec 2013The pleasure is mine, please.
Rambling Rose
29 Jan 2014Enchanting! You have brought out the heart and pulse of a country and her people. You have great eye for the unusual and the interesting.
fotograffer
8 Feb 2014Thank you so much. It was a marvelous experience.
Beauty Along the Road
15 Jun 2014Perhaps Cuba proves that resourcefulness trumps materialism at all cost? Hoping to make it there in the near future and see for myself…
QwenL
29 Jun 2014This blog made Havana a lovely place to visit to. In your photos, the people and the place are so inviting and friendly and it feels like I’m at the actual place and strolling over the streets of Havana.
fotograffer
30 Jun 2014I am happy you felt that way. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Allison Andersen
18 Aug 2014Stunning. I have a possible opportunity to go to Cuba next spring and I’m very excited about it. Your photos are beautiful and really capture so much diversity in a place that is a mystery to most of us. Thanks for sharing.
fotograffer
19 Aug 2014Allison, I hope you get to go. You are sure to enjoy it. Thanks for your comment and for visiting.
Regina Martins
25 Jan 2015What vibrant photos that so well capture the essence of Cuba. It felt like I was there. Thank you for such reading pleasure.
fotograffer
27 Jan 2015Thank you Regina. I am happy you enjoyed the post. Cuba is very special o me. In fact, I am turning in a few weeks so stay tuned.
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fotograffer
4 Mar 2015Thank you so much for your kind words.
Luna
25 Aug 2017I found out about your blog through the wave photo, it’s just so mesmerising!