seen on the scene
Cuba Con Amor
By Heidi Powell-Prera, Photographer/International Correspondent
As the land of Cuba draws closer, the excitement of our group grows. Only a few
of us have been here before; the rest have always wanted to. Cuba is a “magical”
place. It has to be to be loved by so many, even by those who have never been
there. The land is lush, green, and vastly undeveloped. The historic landmarks are
slowly being refurbished. Evidence of re-construction is everywhere, although
crews working the construction sites are not often seen. The music, art, food, and
people are the topics most often mentioned when asked why they love Cuba.
Of course, the fabulous beaches are always a favorite.There is also the mystery of
what the future of Cuba will be and the hope that it can be better for the people
of Cuba.
HITDC’s second International Trade Center mission to Cuba was hosted by CM
Dwight Boykins in honor of Larry Green who hosted the first mission with Val
Thompson, founder and president of the International Trade Development Coun-
cil. The group was comprised of business and educational leaders from Greater
Metropolitan Houston representing The Houston Rodeo, The Black Chamber
of Commerce, and more. US citizens are not able to engage in trade with Cuba
under the current administration, and because of this, the US traveler is being
taxed when currency is exchanged making things a bit more expensive. However
Cuba is still very affordable and friendly to US travelers. The local merchants and
hotels are more than happy to host Americans wanting to experience Cuba’s many
charms.
18 iF Magazine |February 2019