Havana, Cuba - Walking along the Prado

by Walt Hollander
(Toronto, Ontario, Canada)

Cuban Girl Dancing

Cuban Girl Dancing


I was hooked the first time that I encountered a few Cubans in my native country of Canada. Their stories about life in Cuba attracted me and gave me the desire to visit their country.

I reflect on the mindset that brought me to this colorful, and exciting place. I sit on a bench on the Prado, a pedestrian boulevard that doubles as a park; it links important parts of Old Havana, providing an enjoyable means of getting around on foot.

I hear music coming from strategically placed speakers. Prado is full of people of all ages, from vendors displaying their own crafts -- photos and paintings -- to passersby, school children, and tourists. I'm enchanted by the happy play of girls skipping rope.

As I watch, a dance performance group assembles. Young girls in vivid costumes. They exhude rhythm and expression; they are a perfect represention of the vitality I see displayed by the Cuban folk I have met.

I've fallen in love with this place, its people, and its culture. Read the details of my adventures in Cuba.

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May 14, 2011
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Lovely image
by: Ann Onimus

Your story sounds so inviting. I could picture myself on the Prado, enjoying the charm of the place.

Jun 27, 2011
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Sounds wonderful
by: Leslie Woodford

The atmosphere on the prado sounds pretty great. Makes me want to visit Cuba. Thanks for sharing, Walt.

Jun 27, 2011
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Your comments are lovely!
by: Anonymous

Thanks for those lovely comments. I love the place. In fact, I love all of Havana and hope you get to go but please go with someone who knows or take a cultural type tour. The other tours are ok (I call them rubber necking tours) but you will never get that special personal feeling that memories are made of.

Jul 20, 2014
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Opportunities for those who want to experience more
by: Anonymous

I would like to draw your attention to the other web site that gives much more background information and travel tips.
You can view this all at http://www.cubacultureclub.clubforleisure.com/11.html
Enjoy!

Jun 12, 2015
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Good post
by: Dell O'Reilly

Hi! You have an amazing niche site!

Jun 12, 2015
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Answer to Dell O'Reilly DDS
by: Walt

Hi Dell ... and all other commentators. Very many thanks for your lovely comments.
All the best!
Walt

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