Every once in a while, you come across a person who is so full of life and enthusiastic about sharing what they love. They care deeply about people and helping each other out and they want the best for you, despite any differences. They are honest, open and genuine. You feel embraced, seen, understood and cared for in their presence. Now imagine an entire culture like this. Bienvenidos a Cuba.
Welcome to one of the most misunderstood places on earth. I spent 12 glorious days and 11 nights on the Caribbean island just south of Miami. Most people don’t have Cuba on their wellness bucket list, but spend just a little time here and you’ll peel back the layers to soon discover that this entire country is smack dab in the middle of huge transformation. Like any caterpillar blossoming into a butterfly, it can be uncomfortable, awkward and unsure. Give it time. This beautiful tropical island will be on everyone’s radar.
I traveled around the tropical island with Locally Sourced Cuba Tours, and I saw firsthand the power of this special place. Nowhere else on the planet do you feel so safe, welcomed and cared for.
When arriving in Cuba, don’t ask too many questions. Instead simply relax, take it all in and soak up the wonder. Because this is a place where it’s best to leave your expectations at home and prepare to experience the unexpected.
Each Moment is of Infinite Value
The reality is the time is now. We only always have now. Cubans have a way of embracing this and really balancing life by living in the moment. From the sleepy soft town of Viñales to the bustle of Havana, Cuban culture invites you to disconnect, be present and slow down. What you’ll discover is all we have is here and now, and this moment is all that truly matters, so make the most of it.
Make the Most of What You Have
It’s not what you want but what you do with what you have that makes life more manageable. Cubans are known to be resourceful, smart and to manipulate things to make them work in their favor, in part because this is survival here. For years they had to make the most of what they had and use what they could to make what is broken work again. A perfect example of this is the classic American cars from the 40s–60s, flooding the streets of Havana almost 60 years later and showing how much care they put into the things they own.
All Change is Really Transformation
Everything is always changing and growing. When we hold on to what isn’t working, that is when things can become tricky. In Cuba, they grow with the changes and let themselves learn through each new phase. If you are in transition, be compassionate with yourself and recognize that you are growing, and these pains don’t last forever. Recognize that all change is really a form of growth.
Want to go: Get more details about Locally Sourced Cuba Here
Shannon Kaiser is a travel writer and four-time bestselling book author. She is traveling the globe for 365 days for the Joy Seeker Project. You can join her journey on instagram @ShannonKaiserWrites
Thank you for sharing your beautiful pictures and experiences in Cuba. I am so glad you had a marvelous Time! 🍷