September 18, 2019

(Saturday Nights – Khalid)

Cuba, oh cómo te extraño.

Traveling to Cuba for two weeks was an experience that went beyond all expectations that I made before going. For my first trip outside of America and overseas, I searched through all of the websites and talked to my family about the way I should travel. The importance of being aware and staying with a buddy was reiterated to me time and time again. On the internet, I found countless lists of “the 30 best things to do in Cuba!” My mom told me to be careful with my money. My dad told me not to follow any strangers. My sister reminded me to be in moment. All of the advice and tips seemed to fall into the background when I stepped out of the airplane from Miami and into the Havana heat.

I knew that my inability to speak Spanish fluently would cripple my ability to communicate, but I wasn’t expecting the shock and added stress that would come along with that. I immediately felt embarrassed when I couldn’t speak to the locals and frustrated with myself for not paying more attention in Spanish 101 sophomore year. Thankfully, I was not alone. Without the company of my friends Makayla and Dani, my trip not only would have been less significant, but it would have been a lot scarier. Thick as thieves, the three of us problem solved any issue that came our way, laughed when feeling moments of homesickness and made memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

During my two weeks in Cuba, I got a chance to know Havana and visit Viñales – a mountain town south of Havana. Havana can most easily be described as eccentric and alive! The people were friendly and curious about us. The music poured out of every restaurant and café. Historical landmarks like El Morro lighthouse and La Floridita bar and restaurant told stories of the past that make Cuba so magical. The culture shock felt almost overwhelming. Only knowing America my whole life, experiencing the way Cubans live left me with a feeling of guilt and privilege. The lack of basic needs like clean running water and accessible food was little to no concern to the locals although it concerned me. Walking through the barrios, people relaxed outside and talked, trying to beat the heat with hand fans and rocking chairs. The lack of what I see as necessities was just small things to think about to the locals and they found a way to be happy and enjoy each day. It taught me a lesson about being not only grateful for what I have but being okay if I have little.

In Viñales, I saw some of the most beautiful mountains I’ve ever seen. The hills looked like they were melting with vegetation. The air, although still humid, was fresh. We stayed at this quaint Airbnb and our host was like a mom, laughing with us, making us fresh mango and guava juice and never being angry when we accidentally broke a dish. While traveling to Viñales, we got the opportunity to horseback ride through the hills which was a whole experience that makes me smile when I think about it. We also went through a very uncomfortable truck ride to get to the most beautiful beach I’ve ever seen. Always take advantage of a day when you get to drink mojitos with close friends by the ocean. We all cried when we left Viñales. I wish we could have had more time in this gorgeous town. Our days there were about the people we were with and the friendships we made.

Traveling to Cuba wasn’t easy for me. Being far away from the people I love was really hard. I saw my mom in Maria, my last Airbnb host. My found myself being skilled at navigation the way my dad is.  Every moment I stepped in water I missed my boyfriend, who loves being in water.  The challenges that came with my trip were thankfully met with kindness and support from unexpected friends and I am forever grateful for the hand they extended to me.

I miss Cuba. I found a love for photography and learned a lot about myself as a photographer. I found a sense of independence that wasn’t there before. I made lifelong, deep rooted friendships that I will hold in my heart forever. I’ve never spent so much time being thankful for giant avocados, loud latin music that occasionally sounded like home, exceptionally friendly hospitality and sunsets that flooded the horizon with orange skies over calm waters. It wasn’t always easy but I’m happy for that. I grew through the challenges. I’ve been home for a few months now, but the memories I made still feel fresh. I hope that Cuba will be just as welcoming when I return in the future.

In my photo gallery, you can find some of my favorite shots from Cuba.