2015.01.01January 1, 2015; Havana, Cuba; View of capitol from Plaza Vieja

Just returned from an incredible trip to Cuba!

2015.01.01January 1, 2015; Havana, Cuba; Tenement housing

The trip was planned in advance of Obama's announcement to reestablish diplomatic relations with Cuba on a "people to people" visa that allowed us to legally visit the country and meet with historians, economists, red cross directors, and other Cuban nationals to provide us a (government approved) perspective on Cuba. The changes Obama seeks have yet to take effect, so while I couldn't bring back any cigars or rum, there was certainly a newfound enthusiasm in the people of Cuba encountering us Americans and discussing their hopes for the changes, with varying levels of optimism about what, how and when those changes will occur.

2015.01.01January 1, 2015; Havana, Cuba; US and Cuban flag

I'm separating out these blogs so I don't inundate you too much =)

Baracoa - aka Cuidad Primera, the "first city" of Cuba

2014.12.28December 28, 2014; Baracoa, Cuba

Santiago de Cuba - second largest city of Cuba. 

2014.12.30December 30, 2014; Santiago de Cuba, Cuba; Enramada Havana/Habana - capital of Cuba

2015.01.03January 3, 2015; Havana, Cuba; View from Parque Central hotel Industriales Practice (yes, I was granted the opportunity to photograph practice of Habana's most popular baseball team! What an experience!)

2015.01.02January 2, 2015; Havana, Cuba; Industriales practice at Estadio Santiago "Changa" Mederos Using the MindShiftGear 180Rotation Panorama backpack

2015.01.01January 01, 2015; Cuba This blog surely doesn't include everything or provide any further clarification on the complexity of Cuba or it's people. As the economist said, "if you understand anything I'm saying please stop me, because that means you don't understand it at all." My perspective is obviously skewed by my own opinion, experiences, and the time I was able to spend both within and outside the itinerary. As is life, some of my experiences on the trip, are best left untold, undocumented and solely experienced! But hopefully an interesting glimpse into Cuba and a place for me to return.

2014.12.29December 29, 2014; Baracoa, Cuba A HUGE thanks to Colin, Ann and David for including me on this trip!! And more big thanks to Jarrett, Clem, Hector and Sergio who coordinated everything, beyond reason. Thanks for the rest of the awesome group who all shared their perspective, energy, and kindness. And of course the people of Cuba who permitted this group of Americans a glance into their lives, sharing their beautiful and complex country with us for a few days!

2015.01.02January 2, 2015; Havana, Cuba; Statue of Jose Marti holding Elian Gonzalez