The "little" brother I never had. :-)

Actually, from what I've seen, most of the Cuban's in Cuba do enjoy Cuba. Obviously the one's who risked life and limb to flee have a different opinion, both are valid. It does bear remembering that the opinions presented about Cuba in the US are heavily influenced by both the people who fled the island and the US' Cold War history and experiences. It's not the only view point of the country or regime.

That said, I disagree with the OP that it should be left exactly as it is. It needs to modernise with or without the ending of the Embargo in order for the Cuban economy to progress. As beautiful and quaint as the time wrap to the 50's is it's also left the country unable to compete hence the reforms that Raul is now implementing. Cuba is going to go through a similar revival as Russia did after the break up of the USSR.

American's are very welcomed there, as is the USD. They do charge an extra fee for converting to CUC and no debit or credit card from a US bank is accepted so it's probably easier to travel in with another currency.

Thanks, would like to go :-)

Peter says this thread is on his radar.

I say my butt itches.

It means pretty much the same thing. :-)

I like cheese. :-)

Wow, can't believe how you guys just jumped on this thread like you have. I definitely understand the OP and understand his sentiment. I agree that Cuba will forever be changed once/if the embargo is lifted as the country will be bombarded by Americans and American companies changing the country forever. I for one want to visit BEFORE the embargo is lifted for that reason alone.

Man, this dudes threads are like

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They are entertaining though, in a "wtf is going on?" Sort of way.

It's already changing with or without the lifting of the Embargo. The Cuba that people have gone to see for years will not exist in 5 years.

ummmm ... anyone outside of these United States is free to enjoy Cuba

2.7 million tourists visited Cuba last year 50% more than visited Aruba

It would seem the world enjoys Cuba just not us (well, most of us)

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Feel better?

After reading this thread, my butt itches too. Gotta get it up off the chair and walk it outside:-)

Beautiful place

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Tell me you got to keep his hat lol

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:-)WTF ??
As a born and raised Canadian, you are the one who seems to be 'showing his A$$...'

Jamaica is a perfect example. Life seemed pretty simple in Jamaica and the people were very polite and fun to be around. (yes.....even when you didn't give them money)

Thats looks photo shopped.

Ya think? :-)

:-)