Lately I’ve noted that many people look at me as if I were a “malandra.” In Venezuela, malandros are said to be those who we in Cuba in generally call criminals: any type of mugger, pickpocket or petty thug – in short, a low class person. (9 photos)
Read MoreWalking through the entryway of the old Aldama Palace, situated to one side of Fraternity Park in Havana, it’s customary to see “card throwers” seated on the curb trying to make some money.
Read MoreThe recent speech by President Raul Castro to the National Assembly laid out the prospects for the diversification of self-employment in Cuba. The possibility of allowing self-employed people to hire their own workers was even mentioned.
Read MoreEveryone who needs to travel to one of the country’s provinces turns to the La Coubre station, a fact that transforms this terminal into a well-known place and one that is undoubtedly interesting.
Read MoreQue bolá papi! (What’s happening daddy). This can be heard between young guys who meet and immediately exchanges kisses on the cheeks.
Read MoreThe book is written with a basically moralistic tone, and it is as blind to the errors of the Cuban political system as it is fervent about pointing to such failings abroad. Nevertheless, I consider the book a first step worthy of praise.
Read MoreMy Havana Times colleague Irina Echarry recently published an article titled “Recycle, Recycle, Recycle.” I could relate to the topic, given how much it related to me. I am a woman formed out of love for the earth and nature, and also for people, who both live and survive as a species on this planet.
Read MoreNor is it a secret that much of the sports paraphernalia is bought on the informal market, but the elite make their purchases of such clothing and footwear in “official” brand name stores. Only small social sectors have access to these.
Read MoreOne time I paused to note how an ice cream vendor served me without lifting her head; she never even looked at me. It was a shame, because she would have gotten a flattering compliment.
Read MoreI admit that I also fell for that unexpected fallacy of fate, because the day they sacrificed the pig, I had sharpened my teeth, seduced by the fantasy of succulent pork. I was looking forward to the meal perhaps more than my own friend, when he turned the stake to the right as much as to the left of enthusiasm.
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