TRIPS & EXPEDITIONS
CUBA Boys, together with members of sta from the Economics and Geography departments, found cultural, political and terpsichorean interest on a trip to Cuba, says Hugo Flower
T he nine days spent away commenced with three nights in beautiful Havana, learning about the socialist economy, the revolution, Castro and the future of this fascinating country. We enjoyed a lecture from a Cuban economist, learnt to dance the salsa, and visited an art exhibition on the Cuban revolution. Then, on to Viñales to trek around tobacco plantations, and meet local farmers and cigar producers. This was followed by a few nights in Playa Laga, in the Bay of Pigs, for some history on the failed CIA invasion, and snorkelling in the Caribbean Sea to catch fish for supper. We then travelled back to Havana for a ride in the famous 1950s era taxis and on home. The boys and staff had a thoroughly enriching experience and there was much debate sparked with regard to local politics and Cuba’s place in the world, past and present. Our guide, Alex, was fantastic, helping the students get a real picture of Cuba through the eyes of a local. Cuba is staggeringly beautiful, both in an urban and rural sense, and its people exceptionally warm and welcoming. The tides of change sweep ever faster, however, and it remains to be seen what the future holds for this most captivating of Caribbean islands.
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