Cuba Decisions by Trump Administration Are a Huge Mistake

I just had to share my reaction to today's unfortunate news. What a huge mistake.

For anyone who hasn't heard, I thought this was a pretty comprehensive rundown of what's about to happen: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-cuba-idUSKBN1970EC

It's incredibly unfortunate, and a huge mistake. Keep in mind however, there will still be plenty of ways for U.S. Citizens to get to Cuba - many people can easily fit one of the 12 visa categories, and even if you don't, there are ways, just do a little research. I;m sure you've all heard of someone flying to Canada for example first, and then maybe Mexico or somewhere else in Central America first before flying to Cuba, it's doable! I would urge anyone with the chance to go and visit.

Havana morning's.

I am so thankful my husband and I had the opportunity to go earlier this year, and I will tell you, as someone from the United States I was welcomed by all the Cubans we met with open arms. They were happy to have us there and eager to share as much info as we would listen to, about their country, their culture, and yes, their government. Most Cubans we spoke to were very disheartened by the way U.S. media in particular portrays their government and its struggles.

Our tour guides drove us around an hour over the time we paid them for, answering all of our questions enthusiastically and even took us to their house to pick up pizza made by the driver's wife when we all got hungry.

Struggles there may be. But most Cubans don't walk around everyday feeling like a prisoner in their own country. Most we met had immense pride in their country and even people we met with very little in terms of material possessions exuded the ability to enjoy life and find their personal happiness - this is something many in the North can learn from many of our Central and South American neighbors. A life rich in family, friends, health and inner peace can be a rich life indeed.

Old Havana

Music in the streets in Trinidad

Dancing in the town square in Trinidad...I just had to capture this guy's pure joy!

This is not to say there's not a reason to strive for better, to strive for improvement on many levels - but it is to serve as a reminder that people can accomplish great things when they feel empowered and inspired, rather than controlled or pitied. You may view their government as controlling or oppressive, but guess how they view the big bag USA attempting to take over relations and strong-arm them into making changes WE think would be best for them, rather than allowing them the chance to figure it out for themselves? Let's micro-manage and see if that helps lessen the pressure? I think not.

Our Tour Guide's neighborhood in Havana

Traveling this magical island nation was an unforgettable experience full of vibrant culture, beautiful music, soul-feeding dance, architecture and infrastructure that will take you back in time, an absolutely fascinating history - and above all, amazing people who were more than gracious in giving us a glimpse into their lives and homes. Cubans are open to relations with the United States and certainly open economic relations would help their country, no doubt. They simply don't want the U.S. meddling with their government.

Our host in Trinidad, Vladi. Not only did he open his home to us, but he made us the most delicious home-cooked meals - I added some pictures of his amazing food below.

Sound familiar? A la Russia? Yes...because we don't like anyone meddling with our government either. Seems like a decent, reasonable request. Such a shame. I hope people can see past this power play to think for themselves, and I hope more and more US citizens continue to discover the magic of Cuba and its people.

In support of US citizens traveling to Cuba regardless of what laws are or are not in place, want to share some photos from our epic tour!

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A must-see in Havana, Fusterlandia, where artist Jose Fuster's home has evolved into a dreamy mosaic neighborhood!