As we touched down in Havana after a mere 40 minute flight, I realized exactly how close Cuba is to the United States. After having my passport stamped (I had to ask) and literally walking right through customs we were greeted by Anita, our wonderful program coordinator from the University of Havana. A short ride and we were home, the Hotel Universitario. The rooms are comfortable doubles with AC and hot water. We dropped off our suitcases and were summoned downstairs into the bar. It was one of the employees birthday and we had been invited to share in the rum and dancing. This is Cuba after all.
We have visited the University, received our student IDs, walked along the Malecon, explored Havana Vieja, had a city orientation / Q&A with people from the Center for Public Administration, went to the Museum of Fine Arts (beautiful), and went out with some Cuban students…
All the talk on how well Cubans can dance is true and then some. After an already long day, we took the bus to the Café Cantante, an expensive dance club that has a special rate on certain days for students. It was packed. Despite being extraordinarily tired ,running on an empty stomach, and suffering from tall awkward white girl syndrome when it comes to dancing, the live music and energy of the room made up for it all. I think we found the tallest Cuban alive in that club, and even he can dance. After 5 hours we emerged sweaty and smiling… not bad for our second night in Havana. Needless to say we all slept well and are ready (maybe) to do it again tonight!
Each day I wake up and grab my sunglasses, explore the city, learn new words in Spanish, and attempt to take it all in. I’m actually living in Cuba… this is crazy! I couldn’t be happier : )
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