Cuban cultural expression flourishes: Music, cuisine, and artistry reflect freedom of expression

Cuba is a delightful tropical oasis nestled between the northern Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean with a population of approximately 11 million people whose freedom of expression is evident in their colorful culture, food, and music, blending African and Spanish influences.

Be that as it may, the world is aware this magnificent paradise is not easy to visit with an American passport. Fortunately, educational, and cultural tours approved by the Cuban embassy, and facilitated by cariBeat.com a leading Caribbean lifestyle company based in Washington, founded by Luis and Monique McSween, continues to bring joy and happiness to nationals via charitable, and culinary jaunts. U.S. passports require a visa to the island.

A March 25 – 29 tour was the perfect timing, with pleasant temperatures to experience first-hand how nationals live and showcase their talents. The next trip is July 18- 22. (call 202-631-1556) or visit www.caribeat.com for more information.

Caribbean-American travellers strike a pose in the garden of boutique hotel “La Distancia” in Havana, Cuba, during a five-day tour of the island nation. From left Lisa Marie, Rita, Sandra, (back row) Luis McSween, president of Caribeat; (front) Monique McSween, Caribeat; Nadine, and (back row) Loughton, and Tangerine Clarke.Photo by Tangerine Clarke

This reporter was one of a small group of professionals who were captivated by Havana – the 281 square miles city overflowing with sights and sounds.

After I was welcomed to the La Distancia, a boutique hotel in Vedado, and guided to the Celia Cruz suite, the “people to people” tour began with a pulsating night of music by Rimera Linea a group of gifted young musicians who brought home the sounds of New Orleans after a cultural exchange program.

Youth band Rimera Linea put on a dynamic performance showing off their skills.The ensemble traveled to New Orleans, Louisiana to participate in a music exchange program. Photo by Tangerine Clarke

The effervescent bunch was quite entertaining, adding American pop melodies to their performance as proud parents joined tourists on the rooftop venue and danced the night away against a stunning sunset.

The awe-inspiring experience wrapped in Havana’s vast setting of tree-lined streets, colorful flora, squares, monuments, museums, skyscrapers, and cobblestoned streets, were appreciated by the travelers, who were immersed in the culture, customs, and history, narrated by tour-guide Vivian, a national from Guantanamo province.

Classic cars in striking colors were the mode of transportation to get around the city of consummate artists like the exciting percussion and choreography by Habana Compas Dancers, who brought the audience to its feet, while the meaningful verses of female Rappers La Reyna y Real, to the 70s and 80s girl group Chik, and a private Salsa dance session conducted by professional instructors gave travelers a taste of the exciting culture of the Spanish-speaking island.

The Habana Compas Percussion and Dancers perform using furniture as instruments. Photo by Tangerine Clarke

Fine dining is one of Havana’s greatest assets. From La Guarida to, elCocinero, Frente, MiBarrio, arrecife, and Yarini, flavorful cuisine was the reward for climbing winding staircases to roof gardens. The fusion, cocktails, desserts, and impeccable ambiance are the allure, topped with soothing sounds of jazz music, and breathtaking views of the city, and sunsets.

The immersive surrounding, both in, and outside of Havana gave travelers a stunning panorama of the deep blue sea, and lushness in Finca Vigia, that has been the home to award-winning author Ernest Hemingway. His hill-top mansion, that sits on manicured grounds is a reminder of the olden days before the revolution, when the rich and famous lived lavishly. Traces of wealth also remain at Hotel National de Cuba, the former stomping ground of kings, queens, presidents and movie stars.

The tagline “Real Happy Vibes” is befitting Caribeat’s hospitality. The Trinidad-American McSweens plan programs that would engage and provide humanitarian assistance, and support small business owned by nationals.

Three entrepreneurs spoke passionately about the challenges, and opportunities they face, giving insights into how the outside world could be of assistance, not only about change in policies, but also education, and technological training opportunities,

One of the highlights, was a visit to an art gallery, that display hundreds of paintings that artists look forward to vending, and showcasing to the world. An up-cycle art installation showed the versatility of the Cuban people.

But despite restrictions that limit Cubans they continue to have hope for change, as heard in the voices on the streets that describe their situation as complicated.

“U.S. travelers should note that travel to Cuba has been regulated since 1963 and has changed under each presidential administration since that time,” stated Popper of Insight Cuba. “Cuba travel has always been a hot political topic, and you never know when the rules are going to change. I always tell people to go now — while you can,” says a blogpost by Insight Cuba.