“Havana will always be a Cuban city, not simply a city in Cuba.”

El Morro is an impressive part of the Havana cityscape.

Miguel Coyula, Cuban architect and urban planner, was our first lecturer at the Hotel Nacional in Havana. He talked of the great traditions that have been preserved in Cuba’s cities, and of the importance of maintaining the best of those values as the country changes. It may not be possible to “save” all the Colonial buildings in Old Havana. But it is important to respect the city’s five hundred years of urban history. How Cuban cities modernize will be a fascinating story.

The streets of Cienfuegos are as relaxed as they are colorful.

Speaking of which, here’s a link to another modern video edition of El Diario de Cuba, taking viewers on a tour of the four cities we visited during our week on the island: Cienfuegos, Trinidad, Santa Clara, and Havana. Each has its own history, personality, and charm.

The markets in Trinidad are full of interesting people.