Diaries

Desperately Seeking Cuba

A writer read an essay that began with: “I was born in a country that no longer exists.” I ignored the fact that she was born in the former German Democratic Republic since I had no doubt that she was talking about Cuba. But what was most curious was that I wasn’t alone in having that impression.

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The Cat Test

Salvador Valdes Mesa, leader of Cuba’s only trade union, has already stated that wages won’t increase for a good while and that our ration cards — will disappear little by little.

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Our Seniors’ Well-being

“The pregnant women’s seat, please?” was heard in the center of the bus. It was a woman who was asking for that seat. It wasn’t for herself, though, but for a young woman in an advanced stage of pregnancy. Still, no one replied.

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During the Playoffs Many Cubans Feel Like a People

Many people look forward to the playoffs so that they can in some way participate in an activity of the people. When a team in the series performs well, a miracle occurs. Nothing and no one is able to repress or oppose the joy, laughter and euphoria of its followers.

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An Engineer Suffering from Non-Homophobia

When asked, I always say “I don’t like politics” – which causes people to look at me, wondering what the hell I’m doing writing for Havana Times. Usually, I’ll continue my explanation saying, “I don’t like it, but I find it entertaining.”

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An Art Fair for Mom

The now traditional Mother’s Day Art Fair was held here in Havana — this time at the Pabexpo Center — with a surprisingly increased level of artistic and professional diversity achieved by Cuban craftspeople, artists and creators. (31 photos)

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Cubans and Rabbits

Speaking of politics (an unavoidable topic for Cubans), a friend of mine expressed what in my opinion was an odd reflection – though sharp at the same time. He said we Cubans have conformed to our situation so much that we’re like women who suffer anorgasmia.

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More on Our Week Vacation (The Arrival)

This post is the continuation of a previous one about our recent trip to Cienfuegos province. Everything started when some relatives in Cienfuegos booked a week’s stay at a “campismo” public campground there in that province for me and a few friends. (15 photos)

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A Wage Increase in Venezuela?

I imagine that many Venezuelans begin to feel anxious every time there’s talk about a minimum wage increase because it doesn’t benefit those who don’t receive a minimum wage. However, they too are affected by the steady rise in prices. (19 photos)

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