I dont know if this is the time or the place, but i really
need to get something off my chest. I just returned from a
two week vacation in Cuba. I spent time in Havana,
Cienfuegos, and Santa Clara. I understand that this is not
the entire island, but I feel like I got a genuine feel of
how things worked. I didnt travel to Cuba for the sun or
sex. I wanted to see the people and culture. I have heard
so much from this site about the friendly people and warm
hearts. What I found was quite different. While the people
I met were friendly, it seems like they were always ithcing
for me to give them something. At every Casa Particular,
the home owners would show me things given to them by their
former western guests. Hats, shoes, and wathces were the
norm. I felt pressured and uneasy. I couldnt go out to eat
without a "hanger on." It didnt matter if it was a taxi
driver or just someone on the steet whom I had asked
directions. I somehow got the feeling that everyone felt
that I owed them something. I didnt know if any of you had
experienced this side of Cuba or not. I, for one, did not
like it. This was my first trip to a Latin America country
and I can honestly say it will be my last. Africa, my home
away from home, is much poorer than Cuba and no one feels
they are owed anything. Maybe in Africa (Kenya, Mozambique,
and Namibia) I look less like a tourist and am more savy to
the ways. I dont know, I just didnt like feeling like I had
to feed the entire island of Cuba. Let Fidel do it, its his
bloody place. Ok, enough of that. I did enjoy the
country side and oddly enough the Cristal(sp) beer. Other
than that, I think Cuba is a lost cause. I would like to
think what all of you think.
Oink Oink Oink.....PIGGY
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In all honesty, I can say that I have experienced some of
the very same annoyances that you did. During my last stay,
which lasted 3 months, I met some friends who were also
foreigners. We hung out a lot, and discussed our
frustrations of being foreigners in Cuba. We
essentially formed a support group. Many of the people do
seem to rely on this sense of 'entitlement' - like,
o.k.....you have something and you should give us something
because we are poor. I think this thinking is a VERY
unfortunate outgrowth of a socialist system - where people
don't get things because they work hard, but just because.
And remember, they don't really have an appreciation for the
idea of 'incentives' - no matter what they do, they will
always be in the same position. Now, I don't think that's
your problem or mine. Fidel Castro and the people of have
made their beds - now they have to lie in them. Now that
I've been back in the country for a few months, I'm not as
angry as I was when in Cuba. But at first, I had no
appreciation for the people or their system (as
evidenced by my less than compassionate posts). Yes, many
people talk about how wonderful the Cuban people are - yet,
there are MANY problems that the Cuban people impose on
themselves that never get discussed. Perhaps some of us are
so smitten with the idea of being in the only bastion of
socialism in the western hemisphere, that they go unnoticed.
Or maybe some of us buy into that idea of "we have so we
should give." Whatever the reason, the problems do exist
and they are BAD! However, there are some very good people
there - even though it's tough to remember that at times. I
can't tell you how many relationships I had with people in
Cuba went sour. The family that I traditionally stayed
with, once asked me to bring them a car stereo. They said
that they had $200 to pay for it. So I went to Chinatown,
found one for $45, carried it through Central and South
America in my luggage. I gave it to them - yet they never
offered to pay me for it. After a month and a half, I asked
them when they were planning on paying me - they had a
fit!!!!! They figured since I stay with them, they didn't
have to pay me - although they promised to give me the
money. Now mind you, had they offered to give me the money,
I would have turned it down. But I was amazed at their
sheer audacity! If I am paying for something, shouldn't it
be my choice whether or not it's going to be a a free gift?
To make the situation even more absurd, the father couldn't
drive because of his eyesight and neither of the two sons
had their licenses yet!!!!!! Two minutes after being yelled
at by the whole family (including the mother, father,
brothers, aunts, cousins), I walked out of their home -
never to return. Anyway, I think your post should remind us
that while there are some very nice people in Cuba, as
anyplace else in the world, there is some serious bullsh@!#
that comes with dealing with some of these people as well.
Maybe once the dust settles, you will find it in
your heart to remember the good people and pray for the
f#@!$ked up ones. (smile)
different schtich, same results, all people that ask for money for nothing, play upon peoples guilt/fears to acheive the goal of getting money, there are a thousand places just like it in the world, not just cuba...........though i beleive socialism perpetuate's the problem, in not reinforcing the self asteem of the people, to beleive in them selves......
Wow... I guess I am lucky because in my travels in Cuba I
have never encountered this problem. I guess travelling
with my husband (fiance at the time), protected me from
this. Sorry your experience was not as postive as the ones
I have had. The people I met were incredible and never
even hinted at the idea of me giving them anything,
although I did make gifts occasionally. Perhaps you may
reconsider?
I'VE BEEN TO CUBA 9 TIMES,MOSTLY TO CAYO COCO,AND I HAVE
NEVER EXPERIENCED RUDE OR UNGRACIOUS PEOPLE.IN FACT IT WAS
THE TOTAL OPPOSITE,THEY WERE VERY GRACIOUS AND THANKFUL FOR
ANYTHING YOU GAVE THEM,WHETHER IT WAS MONETARY OR NOT.MAYBE
YOU SHOULD TRY CAYO COCO(TRYP CLUB AND HOTEL).IT IS A GREAT
RESORT WITH VERY FRIENDLY CUBANS.
I share the same sentiment as Diago(check above post) My
first few trips to Cuba were excellant. I felt like the
people were friendly and incredibly warm. However, on those
early trips I only stayed for a week at a time. It was not
until I stayed for months on end did I truly see the real
situation. It is kind of hard to explain, but when your on
the ground in Cuba for a long time you see things
differently. You see how the Cubans "play" new tourist and
realize that that was once you. You catch on to the
language and little phrases. Is Cuba full of warm people,
YES. Is Cuba also full of a people conditioned by socialism
to think that "whats yours is mine and whats mine is mine",
YES!!! For those of you who have had GREAT experiences in
Cuba, I envy you. I should have stopped going when I felt
the same way. Now I see things in a new light and realize
that behind those warm smiles are a people not so innocent
or naive. Sad but true.
paco
Hey Piggy,
I know how you feel. What I don't understand is that you
did not have a single good experience.
I too was followed around by people everywhere I went. In
Havana I was always followed by prostitutes who wanted me to
solicit their favors.
To me it was more sad than exasperating. I frankly think
that a lot of what we have experienced is perpetuated by the
tourists themselves. I saw tons of people who had come over
for a week only to get Sex and Sun.
The people of Cuba have sterotypet all tourists as rich sex
fiends and proactively seek their favors.
With the promise of little else and the ever present horny
tourist they have found an easy way to make money.
Let me ask you if you also saw 60 year old men with girls
old enough to be their grand daughters? Yes they can
probably live without selling themselves like they do but it
is the tourists who show them what they don't have and then
get pissed off if they actively seek to obtain them.
So it's a dilemma. We are partly to blame for it but mostly
it is a system which leaves people little incentive to give
their best.
What I do know is that I will go back because I met some of
the most interesting people there.
Africa cannot be compared with Cuba. The cultures are too
different. I love Africa too and hope to live there
someday.
As far as discounting all of Central or Latin America
beacuse of what you think of Cuba is not fair. The rest of
that part of the world is very different and you will be
amazed at how wonderfully warm the people are.
Hope that helps.
Bye
When we go out on a Caribbean holiday we expect paradise, and when we don't get it everyone else is to blame. And considering the economic and social situation in Cuba none of the mentioned negatives are unexpected. We shouldn't just asume that all island people are the friendly natives that greeted early explorers. Yes sex tourism has soiled locals ot only in Cuba but in thousands of other countries. Once you have a terrible experiece it's hard to let yourself be open for the good ones that might come your way. In Cuba 9 1/2 out of 10 will be of the sort you had piggy but try and uderstand EVERYTHING from bath soap to salt is rationed in a place like Cuba. You know you don't owe anything to the Cuban people and so do they but they could care less. If they can get it they will take you for all you have. It's survival.
I do hope you try out other countries in the Caribbean.
Each one is a world apart and well worth knowing. Cuba is not the only island in the Caribbean and definately NOT the island all others should be measured against. You'll be cheating yourself if you give in to your Cuba experiece.
Good luck.
Methinks that Diago has a big problem with Cuba...sounds
like jelousy of some kind...people are ungrateful or
grateful no matter where they come from...I have met the
most ungrateful people in Europe, yet, I feel that European
in general are great!...Cubans are trying to cope with 40
years of total chaos where nationalism and biases were
compoletely abolished...What else can you ask off of this
people? Nonetheless..they built a society rather poor but
clean, tradidionally rich, artistically superior to any
other country in LA and Africa. From jazz to ballet,
education to theater, cinema to medicine, athletic
prowess to sophistication...They are struggling to belong!
Do you imagine if Castro was not there for so long how great
that little bit of an island would have been to the world?
Those things sometimes do bother certain people...but then
again...ungratefulness, jealousy, et al...they ride
together..
Cathy and methinks,
I cant speak for Diago, but I feel like he and I have some
shared experiences. Its not about jealsousy or ignorance,
its about the reality of Cuba. I know for a fact that you
see things differently once you have actually lived in Cuba.
This does not mean a two week or two month vacation. This
means living there for a long time and interacting with the
people on a daily basis. Diago writes about a family he
cared about dissing him on a stereo. I have run into this
problem numerous times. Its hard to know who to trust or
open up to. I dont think its for survival either. I think
it is a mindset. Having traveled extensivly through the
very poor country of Vietnam, I found a people lacking much
more than the Cubans. However, it was hard to give anything
away. They were too proud to accept even the smallest gift.
I was NEVER burned by a family nor felt any pressure. I
really get tired of people saying that Cubans do all of this
for survival. Hogwash! Show me a starving Cuban and I will
eat my words. Even in the countryside of Cuba the people
have changed. I have some real horror storys in which I
tried to help people and got burned badly. If you which, I
can cite my experiences. However, for now I just wanted to
let you two know that for whatever reason, the people of
Cuba have a very screwy mindset. As long as your a tourist
spending two weeks a year in Cuba, everyone there loves you.
The minute you begin living there and start saying "NO"
well, thats when the problems start. I know for a fact that
both myself and Diago have lived extensivly in Cuba. Have
either or you two? (methinks, cathy)
You might as well stay at home and write to the local
newspaper or get a job as a food critic ..... ha ... ha...
Viva Cuba
P.S. - glad you did not like it there - most likely you will
not go back - and I will not have to run in to you .... ha
.... ha.. !!!! Miss Piggy "a name that suits you !!!"
I have to second Diago and Paco - and yes - you won't start
having those experiences until your third or fourth trip
when the bloom leaves the rose. I've had friendships end
because I wouldn't 1. Buy a VCR and bring it to Cuba 2.
Carry heavy items to a Cuban family from 2 expatriate Cubans
- got screamed at about that - cursed at -even though I had
done plenty of favors for them already - (and they had
decent jobs in the US !) 3. Stalked out on by a Cuban who
insisted that I invest in a business venture he had going 4.
Got blown off badly by someone because I didn't buy them a
video camera. When I said that I had money set aside for
emergencies they accused me of lying and holding out on them
by not spending that money on a video camera for them. They
are all so friendly and
your very close friend and that can all change in the blink
of an eye. Compassion aside - it does seem to be a trait.
None of these people appeared to be "bad" people, in fact I
really liked, even loved them. It just hurts, it really
does, that the bottom line - the punch line - even after
months of developing these relationships and spending money
on basics for them such as food, transport and gifts - if
they don't get just what they want - you are history.
Partly, I think that they play a game - and if they don't
win the game - you loose. I think they feel badly on some
levels about it - I'm sure they try the same thing on the
next foreigner. Many foreigners comply - which
makes the situation worse - since Mr. X bought family Y a
color TV - then what good is "our foreigner" if all they
give us is some clothing and food. It is in many ways
gratifying to be adopted by Cubans and their families, but
it can be a temporary "experience" which will likely end.
I don't regret any experiences (or the money I've spent) -
but the reality referred to in several of these postings
rings true.
Thank you Diago for helping me understand these rather
bewildering experiences. It may indeed have to do with the
mentality of being given goods by the government and being
taught that all people should have the same material level.
Another factor I believe is the knowledge that many Cubans
who have left are living extremely well - and the pure
frustration of comparing their lives to Cubans in Miami,
etc. It's very schizophrenic, and like everything in Cuba,
would probably take several years of living there to
understand. Lawd knows, I ain't perfect, but I don't stab
the backs of those who have helped me, and who would
continue to help me. Just to be balanced, I've met many
Cubans who are reasonable in their requests, and seem to
have a better under
Oh come on people...are you living in planet Mars? Tourism
is tourims...We are invaders when we go to another country
and visit their beaches, eat in their restaurants, and walk
their streets...Parisians hate everybody, Russians in St
Pete's pester every tourist for a lousy rouble, in Florence,
gypsy sent their kids to rob you, in Johannesberg you can
get kill on the streets at midday, in Cancun, Mexico you
don't see Mexicans, etc, etc...Cuba is a new country to
capitalism...Dont you understand that for 40 years they have
lived under an authoritarian form of goverment....Yet, they
have been able to educate their masses, provide medical
care, support the arts, and athletics, cultivate the damn
MIND! You all sound like lousy tourists who need their
butts kissed to be happy when you travel to third world
countries..You feel since you come from the capitalist
kingdoms that everyone must bow to your whims....Think twice
before pointing your fingers to the Cubans...You eat in
places they are NOT allowed, you bring dollars they can't
have, you are a rare species...thus, many of them don't know
how to deal with that reality....If you, Gina, Miss Piggy
oink, oink and Diago are so ultrasensitive, why don't you
stay in Africa, USA or whatever and become, let's say
tellers in a bank...Then you have to deal with your own
people everyday...ehe, ehe...protecting their money!!!!!
Oh come on people...are you living in planet Mars? Tourism
is tourims...We are invaders when we go to another country
and visit their beaches, eat in their restaurants, and walk
their streets...Parisians hate everybody, Russians in St
Pete's pester every tourist for a lousy rouble, in Florence,
gypsy sent their kids to rob you, in Johannesberg you can
get kill on the streets at midday, in Cancun, Mexico you
don't see Mexicans, etc, etc...Cuba is a new country to
capitalism...Dont you understand that for 40 years they have
lived under an authoritarian form of goverment....Yet, they
have been able to educate their masses, provide medical
care, support the arts, and athletics, cultivate the damn
MIND! You all sound like lousy tourists who need their
butts kissed to be happy when you travel to third world
countries..You feel since you come from the capitalist
kingdoms that everyone must bow to your whims....Think twice
before pointing your fingers to the Cubans...You eat in
places they are NOT allowed, you bring dollars they can't
have, you are a rare species...thus, many of them don't know
how to deal with that reality....If you, Gina, Miss Piggy
oink, oink and Diago are so ultrasensitive, why don't you
stay in Africa, USA or whatever and become, let's say
tellers in a bank...Then you have to deal with your own
people everyday...ehe, ehe...protecting their money!!!!!
Oh come on people...are you living in planet Mars? Tourism
is tourims...We are invaders when we go to another country
and visit their beaches, eat in their restaurants, and walk
their streets...Parisians hate everybody, Russians in St
Pete's pester every tourist for a lousy rouble, in Florence,
gypsy sent their kids to rob you, in Johannesberg you can
get kill on the streets at midday, in Cancun, Mexico you
don't see Mexicans, etc, etc...Cuba is a new country to
capitalism...Dont you understand that for 40 years they have
lived under an authoritarian form of goverment....Yet, they
have been able to educate their masses, provide medical
care, support the arts, and athletics, cultivate the damn
MIND! You all sound like lousy tourists who need their
butts kissed to be happy when you travel to third world
countries..You feel since you come from the capitalist
kingdoms that everyone must bow to your whims....Think twice
before pointing your fingers to the Cubans...You eat in
places they are NOT allowed, you bring dollars they can't
have, you are a rare species...thus, many of them don't know
how to deal with that reality....If you, Gina, Miss Piggy
oink, oink and Diago are so ultrasensitive, why don't you
stay in Africa, USA or whatever and become, let's say
tellers in a bank...Then you have to deal with your own
people everyday...ehe, ehe...protecting their money!!!!!
Yes, it sounds like we have shared many of the same
experiences. Those naysayers (i.e., methinks, no
americano, etc.) are still just enamored with Cuba and have
not had the dis-pleasure of living as we did - regular
people in Cuba. Again, we did not live as tourists. We
DIDN'T go to the tourist restaurants. Rather, we went to
the peso restuarants and bought food with Cuban pesos.
-
Pay attention to this part!!!!! The saddest thing that I
found is that many of the things people wanted had NOTHING
to do with their livelihood!!!! When I was arguing with
those people about the car stereo, I pointed out how none of
them even drive - and how if I was going to spend that type
of money, I would have much rather bought medicine, toilet
paper, soaps, etc. for them. Rather than spouting off these
half-cocked theories about some jealousy (of what, I have no
idea), pay attention to the stories we are sharing. Gina
didn't get burned because she wouldn't help someone with a
terminal disease buy medicine. Instead, all the hooplah was
over a VCR! The family with whom I stayed was like my
family. They new my godfather, they called me their son -
but they seemed to think that I should just give them all
these material items. And when you see young Cuban girls
selling their bodies on the street, why do you think they
are doing it - to buy food? They are buying nike sneakers,
TVs, VCRs, stereos, etc. This is not about necessity, it's
greed. And yes, people in other countries (i.e., France, S.
Africa, etc.) are also prone to such behavior. However,
these countries do not preach about "Socialismo o Muerte"
and blame everybody else for their problems. Even after a
40 year old embargo, Fidel still makes speeches complaining
about the U.S. It gets a little tired after a while. The
people need to take responsibility for their own lives - and
that won't be accomplished by asking for handouts from
foreigners (or foreign nations) anymore.
-
"A man one day said to the universe, 'sir, I exist.'
'However', replied the universe,'that fact does not create
in me a sense of obligation.'" Get it? Got it? Good!
I really dont want to try and explain this again....but
since you have your head up your a**, well here we go again.
Neither myself, Diago, or Gina were living the "tourist"
life. We were there as welcomed FAMILY and I expected to be
treated as such. Everything was fine until I put my foot
down and said "NO" to thier multiple request. It became
very clear that I was the house "bank." Money never was the
issue. The issue is one about trust and common decency. I
was not there as a tourist "banging" the familys young
daughter. I was working in Havana when I fell madly in love
with a very bright Doctor. I wanted to help her and the
family. I asked for nothing in return, other than RESPECT.
Repsect is universal. I dont expect to get it as a loud
tourist in the streets of Paris or in the sex shops of
Bancok. However, I expect more from family.
GINA-your story sounds so familiar. I hope you have gotten
over the pain. Sorry. Diago and Piggy, keep your heads up.
I am convinced there is some good in everyone.
Diago,
That was beautiful. Very well put.
Hi,
The website for the Ernesto Che Guevara Brigade should not
have a space between the words Community and Support.
it should be
http://chebucto.ns.ca/CommunitySupport/NSCUBA/Amigos
And as for those of you who are feeling weird in Cuba cuz
you feel people are asking too much, I do think it's cuz
you look like a tourist. I have been there 8 times and have
never been asked for a thing, though I have been offered
life-long friendships.
Diego, Paco and Gina's point has merit. If Methinks have any
doubt, why not stay in Cuba for more than 2 weeks as a
Non-Tourist? I'm willing to bet this has not happen or the
tune would be different.
For Cuban Beachbum, I've been to Cayo Coco(Tryp Club/Hotel)
as well and it's just a prepaid packaged resort. Of course
they won't ask for anything, it's already paid for at approx
$100/day so you go there with a peace of mind!
As for Methinks, why are governments promote tourism if
tourist are 'invader'? Do goodwill visitors deserved to be
fleece just because they have the gall to visit. Paris is
full of dogshit on the street. Does this mean you want your
streets the same? I eat in a restaurant the Cuban aren't
allow, but is that MY fault? I work hard for my $$, now I'm
suppose to feel bad on my vacation? Take heed in visiting
Vietnam, you may suprise yourself when you compare to Cuba.
noAmericano: Why the anti-American attitude? I find the US
tourist is the least of the Cuban problem because of the
restriction. So please explain
is this thing working at all
No, this thing is not working frustrated. And apparently the
people posting here are not either.
No, this thing is not working frustrated. And apparently the
people posting here are not either. Isn't leisure great!
How rotten ridiculous could you all be...! And you call me
an ignorant? So your went to Cuba to live with a family and
the fairy queen of the East turned you abruptly into a full
fleshed Cuban stud...so that every one had to
see you from that relativistic moment on as a
Cuban....hahahahahaha.. You don't even believe that
nonsense yourself. Besides...I'm forgive my latinizing
propensity..."Do ut des." You are expecting from the
Cubans something the same way Cubans are expecting from
you...Else, why would any of you go to Cuba and not to
Mozambique for that matter..?You went to look for something
special, mystical, peaceful, or whatever! Maybe you went
to search for roots, or to take advantage of dirty cheap
prices that challenge the atrocity of the prices in the rest
of the world...maybe you went to find
yourself...'cause you lost your existence
somewhere between the Transval and Nepal..!hahahhaaha..Who
knows...You were looking for something out of the Cubans the
same way the Cubans in their own intimacy and idiosincracy
were looking for something in you! What else can a
voracios capitalist bring to a third world country? And
above all...you were the one who came to them...don't forget
that...they did not ask you to go there! You lose no matter
what...So, be smart...and learn to be a non ignoramus entity
in this sophisticated and wonderful world of traveling...
Peace!
TO ALL THESE COMPLAINING PEOPLE, I SAY THAT IN A WAY IS
THEIR OWN FAULT TO HAVE EXPERIENCED THOSE PROBLEMS. I MEAN
WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD DO YOU JUST GO TO LIVE WITH
STRANGERS AND STILL EXPECT EVERYTHING TO BE ROSY AND LOVELY
FOREVER.I MEAN YOU WOULD NEVER GET ANYTHING LIKE THAT AT
HOME. EVER HEARD OF A SAYING THAT NOTHING IS FREE.IT IS
RIDICULOUS TO JUST EXPECT TO GET A PLACE TO STAY AND
EVERYTHING, AND GET IT ALL FOR FREE OR IN YOUR OWN
TERMS.CUBANS ARE GREAT PEOPLE, BUT THEY ARE HUMANS, JUST
LIKE EVERYONE ELSE. DONT EVER LOSE SIGHT OF THAT FACT.
THIS HAPPENS WHEN YOU ARE CHEAP AND YOU WANT TO GO AND STAY
FOR FREE IN THE HOMES OF STRANGERS TO AVOID PAYING FOR THE
RESORTS. YOU GET WHAT YOU PAID FOR. HOWEVER TO SAY THAT
PEOPLE SHOULD NOT GO TO CUBA BECAUSE THEY WILL HAVE SIMILAR
EXPERINCES IS LUDICROUS., SIMPLY BECAUSE MOST TRAVELLERS WHO
VISIT CUBA ARE NOT SO CHEAP, AND THEY ACTUALLY PAY FOR A
PLACE IN A HOTEL AND STAY THERE. ALTHOUGH THERE MIGHT BE A
LOT OF PEOPLE IN SEARCH OF STAYING AT STRANGER'S HOMES, MOST
TRAVELLERS THERE ARE THE PACKAGED TOURISTS. HENCE, YOUR
PROBLEMS DONT APPLY TO MOST PEOPLE WHO VISIT THE ISLAND.
WHO GIVES A FLYING DAMN WHAT THIS FAMILY DID TO YOU ALL, OR
WHAT THEY ASKED. IF YOU DONT LIKE TO GET HASSLED, DONT BE SO
CHEAP AND PAY FOR A DECENT PLACE TO STAY.ANYWAYS, CUBA IS
GORGOUS, AND THE PEOPLE ARE FRIENDLY, THE BEACHES ARE
GORGOUS, AND THE MUSIC EXCITING.
It's clear you have no idea of what you write. On the
contrary, the family I stayed with did invite me to stay
with them in their country. And Paco mentioned that he was
there for business reasons. Furthermore, these weren't our
first trips to Cuba. I think both of you characters are
just too drunk off your own wine to see reality. Next
you'll start talking about what wonderful lives the Cuban
people have. The bottom line is that your experiences
in Cuba have been far too superficial for you to see or
understand the neuroses of many of the Cuban people. If you
think Cuba is great, I'm happy for you - I thought so once.
Just stay in your all-inclusive resorts and keep enjoying
it.
Its very obvious that very few people understand, so there
is no sense in me even trying to explain. I liked your
above comments and hope to see you in furhter posts.
Paco
Well, it is obvious that there is a difference between the
people on this thread who have spent time in Cuba and those
who have made a short trip. I always pay for accomodation,
even if it is with a family. Before I would pay them, now I
pay a cheap hotel and stay with people anyway to avoid
incurring a fine if they are accused of making money off
renting their home. One fine someone I know got was $1,000
for having students stay in her home. In my travels to Cuba
I've spent thousands on goods and cash for my friends and
family of my boyfriend at the time. Heres a saying I've
heard among Cubans in Havana - El cameron que duerme no coge
turista - Which means "The shrimp who sleeps does not catch
tourists" from the spanish saying "The shrimp who sleeps
does not catch the current. They say that in some way
everyone in Cuba is a Jinetero (hustler -which means
jockey/horserider in English). And I integrated that
knowledge from my first trip onwards. That does not excuse
the disrepect I received after the generosity that I showed
to my hosts and friends. In the time we live, travelling
and being a part of the world community is not just a
luxury, it is a way for all of us to move forward as a world
community by sharing our lives and melting some of the false
borders that exist between us. I don't consider myself to
be a detriment to Cubans in anyway. In fact, hundreds of
them are enjoying the music I've brought down at two discos
in Havana - music that I gave to a young DJ. I'm not rich,
and I live in a country where I have suffered racism and
oppression and poverty as well. What we are discussing is
character. It is not an idiosyncracy or a result of dire
poverty to manipulate people into giving expensive goods and
favors - most of which I did not myself have until later in
my life. I've brought or bought 7 pairs of sneakers for one
Cuban family, and used the same sneakers myself for three
years. The young Habaneros there are very superficial in
their material tastes - the only thing good enough was Nike.
In this discussion we're also bringing up the issue of
globalization and this reminds me of the broadcast featuring
the Munequitos de Matanzas who were all decked out in Nike
clothing for their appearance. And that reminded me of when
one of their members - wearing brand new sports clothes
cornered me and tried to sell me a worn out looking cassette
of one of their albums for $12. I had a hard time getting
rid of him. The funniest story was when that same group was
pushing costly machetes on some students - yes, what a great
thing to bring through customs. Anything, anything for a
buck - and this from a priviledged group who travel around
the world There is something else that adds to the
explanation for all this.. and it has a beard and an
attitude of extreme disrepect for certain sectors of
society. The young people there have been wearing their ID
cards around their necks as a new fashion statement to
express their reality. They are questioned constantly by
the police. Perhaps as the Cubans begin to rebel more
openly, the changes will realign the
I just want to quickly chime in. My experiences in Cuba
mainly revolve around the Marinas. Since I live on my boat,
this is where I spend much of my time. For the longest
time, my boat was the party boat. Each morning workers
from the boat yard would come by for coffee and rolls.
After them it was usually the two on duty Custom officers
and later Immigration. It was a constant cycle, and I
really didnt mind. Each time I prepared to leave the Marina
for Key West, I would get a list form everyone in the
Marina. Mainly they wanted me to develop thier film, buy
them shoes, bring baby strollers, etc. I did the best I
could. I would look for bargains, which means I wasnt
buying Nikes. For the longest time, this was fine. The
Cubans were happy and I was happy. However, about two years
ago everything changed. I brought in a boat load of shoes
and other supplies. As usual, the Cubans came onbaord to
claim thier bounty. However, the shoes suddenly were not
good enough. They wanted Nikes. I dont even have Nikes.
They are just too expensive. If fact, like Gina, I have
been wearing the same pair of shoes for about two years. It
really left me upset and hurt. Here I had spent my time and
money to bring them something and it wasnt good enough. How
incredibly superficial and shallow. Since that day, I have
refused to play thier silly little game. If they want
Nikes, they can get them from someone else. On a final
note...I am totally convinced that the Cubans would be much
more content if tourist only stayed for two weeks and then
got the hell out. In those two weeks, the tourist would be
glad to buy and splerge. And why not, he/she has worked
hard for 50 weeks out of the year. This is the part the
Cubans fail to understand. 50 weeks out the year, most
people bust thier asses. For only two weeks they get to
play in the Sun. We dont live in a perpetual state of
vacation in which our biggest reason for living is to buy
Nikes for the entire island of Cuba.
Now jump ahead to this past Sunday when CBS interviewed the
Rumba group "Las Munequitas" They were all decked out in
Nikes, gold chains, and baseball caps.
Paco, Gina, and Jose......GREAT POSTS!!! As a side note, if
I ever came out of my mouth and said that I didn't like a
gift, my parents would have knocked the shit out of me!!!!!
It's amazing that so many people lack the most simple social
graces! I guess poverty has not taught many of
these people that somethings matter more than money
- namely, manners! Actually, such minor issues as those
have been a source of tension between me and my girlfriend
on occasion. Paco and Gina, were you able to maintain your
relationships over extended periods of time. While I adore
my girlfriend, there are times when I wonder what the hell
am I doing!?!?!?!?!?!?!
Diago,
I ended up writing a very long post in response to your
request. It gets a bit personal so I'd rather not post it
here. If you or Paco would like to read it please send
the address of your e-mail to:
heniper@hotmail.com
The conversations going back and forth are most interesting.
Here's my story. I went to Cuba for the first time and
stayed there a week. I went a second time and stayed there
for almost six months.
The first time was horrible because the only people I met
were young/old tourists who had come there to party.
The next time was a beautiful experience. I fell in love
too. But my story is not tragic. We had the best time
together and parted ways when the time was right. We still
keep in touch (if that is possible)and share the times we
had.
I stayed two different famalies and had many of the
experiences described above. I was offered the daughters as
well. But it did not dampen my spirit. I worked and
whatever little I earned I gave some to the family and
ofcourse the rent. So after the first week I had made it
clear to them that there would be no parasitical
relationships between us.
The problem I think with many tourists is that they feel
compelled to be polite at all times. Just because we have
more does not allow anyone to take advantage of us. We need
to learn how to be fair. I have traveled in several
developing /underdeveloped (in terms of economics only)
countries and always been made to feel that I need to give.
I have done social work in India, Mexico, Africa South East
Asia and felt like I have tried to better those peoples
lives in the long run. I am willing to do that. But if
someone tries to take every last penny I've got, it's not
happening.
I agree with Diago, Paco and Gina but also completely
realsze and understand what Methinks is saying. I
understand that I have little to do with how Fidel chooses
to run Cuba but, the fact remains that most Cubans love
tourists not for only their money but, because they are an
inherently warm people. It breaks my heart to see the
prostitutes on the streets being pimped by their own
famalies. TRY TO THINK HOW THAT MUST FEEL!!!!!!!. No
mother, brother, father will ever choose to pimp their
daughters, or sisters intentionally.
Also remember that money is addictive. I heard someone
mention that Cubans asked for things that were not even
essential. But once you have had a taste of it there is no
reason why you should not continue to want it.
We are the unfortunate messangers between our countries and
an opressive regime, i'm not talking of Cuba at this point.
However we have forgotten to convey the right message and
become the third part victim of opression.
Bottom Line is that I love Cuba but I will help out when I
am respectfully allowed to.
I will not be a rapist of anyones child!!!!!!!!.
The conversations going back and forth are most interesting.
Here's my story. I went to Cuba for the first time and
stayed there a week. I went a second time and stayed there
for almost six months.
The first time was horrible because the only people I met
were young/old tourists who had come there to party.
The next time was a beautiful experience. I fell in love
too. But my story is not tragic. We had the best time
together and parted ways when the time was right. We still
keep in touch (if that is possible)and share the times we
had.
I stayed two different famalies and had many of the
experiences described above. I was offered the daughters as
well. But it did not dampen my spirit. I worked and
whatever little I earned I gave some to the family and
ofcourse the rent. So after the first week I had made it
clear to them that there would be no parasitical
relationships between us.
The problem I think with many tourists is that they feel
compelled to be polite at all times. Just because we have
more does not allow anyone to take advantage of us. We need
to learn how to be fair. I have traveled in several
developing /underdeveloped (in terms of economics only)
countries and always been made to feel that I need to give.
I have done social work in India, Mexico, Africa South East
Asia and felt like I have tried to better those peoples
lives in the long run. I am willing to do that. But if
someone tries to take every last penny I've got, it's not
happening.
I agree with Diago, Paco and Gina but also completely
realsze and understand what Methinks is saying. I
understand that I have little to do with how Fidel chooses
to run Cuba but, the fact remains that most Cubans love
tourists not for only their money but, because they are an
inherently warm people. It breaks my heart to see the
prostitutes on the streets being pimped by their own
famalies. TRY TO THINK HOW THAT MUST FEEL!!!!!!!. No
mother, brother, father will ever choose to pimp their
daughters, or sisters intentionally.
Also remember that money is addictive. I heard someone
mention that Cubans asked for things that were not even
essential. But once you have had a taste of it there is no
reason why you should not continue to want it.
We are the unfortunate messangers between our countries and
an opressive regime, i'm not talking of Cuba at this point.
However we have forgotten to convey the right message and
become the third part victim of opression.
Bottom Line is that I love Cuba but I will help out when I
am respectfully allowed to.
I will not be a rapist of anyones child!!!!!!!!.
care to meet up some time when we bump into each other? I'll be spending a few weeks in July. What you say?
stardustNYC@yahoo.com
Cuban...well said! Exactly how it should be anywhere!
Great post! Perhaps all travelers should become a little
more cognizant of the effect, whether direct or indirect,
that we have on the countries we visit. In other words, we
should be careful not to perpetuate the myth that we are all
rich and ready to be exploited. Once again, great post!