Yes, I visited for a week as a part of a cultural exchange in 2001. I was quite impressed with the educational and medical systems. The schools and medical facilities lacked the technological advances available in the US; but, the children were studious, engaged in collaborated learning activities, and seemed quite happy. I took lots of pictures of them because they were happier than any children I've seen in the US.
The hospital we toured was quite antiquated; for example, children were weighed on a metal scale comparable to ones you would see at roadside produce stands. Nursing staff seemed quite competent and the general level of primary healthcare for the population seemed somewhat comparable to that found in the US at its most basic. One aspect I would love to see instituted in the US was the availability of doctors living in designated communities similar to the concept of the neighborhood school. A doctor and nurse were assigned to a specified number of patients in a specific community. They also lived in the community. We spoke with two doctors at dinner and both were eager to come to the US for the chance to earn more money and greater freedom.
Cuban officials had developed a program that would allow US students to attend medical school in Cuba. Some students took advantage of the program. Cuba has one of the largest medical schools in the world and its enrollment includes a number of students from countries in Latin America, Asia, and Africa.
Cultural institutions such as museums had interesting exhibits and included artifacts from the revolution. Music and art were in abundance. I bought a few pieces of folk art and several children's books. Ernest Hemingway's home remains in good condition and serves as a museum. The architecture can be stunning and a great deal is in need of restoration and renovation. The food was wonderful as we were able to eat in a variety of restaurants available to locals and those catering to tourists.
The level of poverty can be jarring along with the sense that one has gone back in time to the 1940s and 1950s. Lots of tourists from Canada, Europe, central and South America were there. Along with some of these visitors came the negative aspects of tourism which I expect will begin to flourish once again when restrictions are lifted.
The country is beautiful and the people were wonderful. Some share openly their hopes, dreams, and frustrations. They were eager to practice learning English and wanted to know about your life in addition to sharing about theirs.
My memories were somewhat bittersweet because of the potential of what could have been had the political situation been different. Now, I would return in a heartbeat before the country becomes another playground for international tourists. I would encourage those interested in going to do so. Thanks.
