Cuba

I travelled to Cuba in March 2022, as soon as I was able to after the pandemic. It had been a long-term ambition of mine to visit and I was not disappointed. It is an amazing country with lovely people but the low standard of living for many there is obvious to see. The United States of America continues to place a huge stranglehold on its economy but the resilience of its citizens is remarkable despite the impasse between the Governments of Cuba and the States. The currency system had recently changed before I arrived and was causing a serious degree of chaos with a black market and many goods continued to be unavailable unless paid for in US dollars. I visited several places on the island, albeit for much too short a time. There were multiple photo opportunities and, in many ways, it is a very unique country to visit. The transport system (cars, buses, trains) is from a somewhat distant time, reminiscent of my early childhood However, health care is comprehensive, free to all, and advanced. If only the UK had a doctor-to-patient ratio as favourable! I would encourage everyone to visit Cuba but this should be, at least in part, the 'real' Cuba. The 'all-inclusive' beach resorts which attract tourists from all over the world are so far removed from Cuban authenticity and one could be in more or less any place with a beach in the world!