What attracts terrorists? Terrorism and travel have, sadly, become topics that many of us now consider in tandem when we do our trip planning. We may not like to admit to ourselves that terrorists scare us away from travel destinations we would like to visit. And we all know that terrorists could theoretically strike anywhere at any time. But there are places that have not … [Read more...]
Trinidad (the one in Cuba)
Why Trinidad Cuba is a UNESCO site Trinidad is one of Cuba's UNESCO World Heritage sites recognized for its "Outstanding Universal Value" (a category where Blonde hopes to eventually gain recognition). Trinidad was founded in the early 16th century in honor of the Holy Trinity, back when Spanish Catholics were running things and Fidel Castro wasn't even the proverbial gleam … [Read more...]
Cuba’s Literacy Campaign of 1961
One of the educational/cultural activities included in Blonde’s People-to-People trip to Cuba was a visit to the Cuban Literacy Museum. This visit was far enough into the trip that Blonde’s brain (not a total oxymoron) was already skeptically assessing the suspiciously rosy presentations about Cuba’s accomplishments under Castro. As someone who has a hard enough time … [Read more...]
What is it really like (for Americans) to travel to Cuba now?
What is it really like to travel to Cuba now? The internets are full of articles with headlines such as “CheapAir to start selling direct U.S.-Cuba flights on Wednesday”. If, as a U.S. citizen, you read only the headline and the first sentence you may think you are now free to book a vacation to Cuba. Finally you can go independently and do as you please when you arrive! This … [Read more...]