NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, JAN 12 – JAN 18, 2017 | VOL. 14 NO. 2 –
B3
FEATURE
A LOOK INSIDE
HAVANA through the lens of Paul “Paca” Perry
Cuba and Havana in particular is as Islandish in texture and feel as any other. There are potholes and equally impressive “barber green” highways to be found leading up to the city, however you are quickly reminded that this is foreign. Spanish speaking it is. And they can nd the foreigners in a crowd. Never hustled without a distinctive eloquent purpose, but left alone if the service is not required. Discipline is what jumps out at me. Youths are lled with intellect and well spoken, despite the lack of “opportunities” but basically well behaved under the watchful eyes of the young and fully committed “security ofcers.” I see poverty, but no suffering, a mix of all shades living close without chaos. Needless to say I was simply a tourist just venturing out daily to see more of the Havana that has been in the news lately. Dark alleys late at night, no fear with criminal activity nowhere in my consciousness. No guns, no crime. Impressive mansions amidst the failing infrastructure, but life goes on with a fervor that can't be truly measured. Adapting to their own normal. Havana, Cuba... a must for your bucket list.