Cuban Elder

Day one: Cienfuegos and Trinidad.

First impression: Cubans are muy simpaticos! Interesting mixture of decay, poverty and joie de vivre. Lots of people asking for basic necessities such as soap, pens, and a dollar. The coast line is gorgeous and some buildings positively wonderful in style and architecture, in the midst of others that are falling apart. And old cars, of course. Very well maintained for the most part.

We visited an art 'union' and had a chance to chat with artists (musicians, photographer, painter, writer, journalist) for their take on life in Cuba. Interesting combination of denial and stark, matter of fact reality.

Exploring Trinidad tomorrow and visiting an elementary school. Then on to La Havana.