During a trip to Pinar del Rio I remembered what it means to be treated as a nobody and met a community organizer who has a machete. I approached with caution. I am wary of tourist traps and the annoying, pushy men that spring them. (16 photos)
Read MoreThe nearly incessant and deafening noises made by fireworks and firecrackers make Venezuela’s New Year’s celebrations a very stressful time for cats and dogs (and for other species, myself included, as well). Recently, however, I read some good news for these animals we call “pets.” (21 photos)
Read MoreOne of the places I visited in Cuba was the valley of Viñales. I walked a lot there, even did a horse ride. It has a small downtown and a very beautiful and unique countryside. A farmer invited me into his home and made me my private cigar. (12 photos)
Read MoreHavana’s jazz lovers had to plan their evenings meticulously to be able to enjoy as many of the performances staged at different venues and times around the city as possible. We report at the conclusion of Jazz Plaza 2013. (26 photos)
Read MoreOne of the most important days on the Cuban religous calendar is San Lazaro Day which brings miracle seekers to the El Rincon sanctuary on the outskirts of the capital every December 17th. Believers make good on their promises to the saint with the power to heal the sick and make dreams come true. (43 photos)
Read MoreMany readers have shown considerable interest in seeing what is being offered at the FIART artisans fair taking place at the fort across from Havana Bay through December 22. This is another attempt to show some of the work on display and the atmosphere at the popular event. (45 photos)
Read MoreThe Cuban International Arts and Crafts Fair (FIART) is being held at the San Carlos de la Cabaña fortress located across the city bay – possibly as part of a strategy to increase sales.This year’s event,, lasting through December 22, has taken one more step towards becoming the ideal space for the international promotion of Cuba’s craft products. (32 photos)
Read MoreThe Afro Bantu troupe are descendants of the Congos and preserve their ancestral traditions, they play the three Yuka drums: cachimbo, caja, y mula. This ethnic group live in the province of Pinar del Rio, in the hills of the municipality of Luis Lazo, where their ancestors lived. (27 photos)
Read MoreSome time ago, I found out there’s an Internet site about Cuba where people upload photos of things we Cubans are very familiar with. I thought that, without being downright imitative, Havana Times could create a space where people can upload these types of pictures.(16 photos)
Read MoreAt the corner of Morro and Colón Streets in Old Havana a commemoration was held remembering 13 young Cubans, whites and blacks, executed by the Spanish colonial government on November 27, 1871. The whites were medical students and the blacks, anonymous Abakuá brothers. (28 photos)
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