We had the opportunity to travel to Cuba in April 2012. The organized trip was under a license for a people to people exchange and focused on art and music. We traveled with some wonderful people and met more wonderful people as we explored Havana and Santiago de Cuba with a short trip to Bayamo.

Much of the trip was like stepping back in time with all the old American cars, buildings out of the 1920s and 1930s, and life under socialism rule. The Cuban people are warm and more than willing to share their views, music and art with Americans. Many of us (me included) cannot U.S. understand why the U.S. embargo and travel restrictions for Americans are in place. We met fellow travellers from all over the world enjoying all that Cuba has to offer.

I have chosen to post my images chronologically rather than by subject so the viewer can "tag along" with the group we were with. Please be aware that some of the images were shot through a bus window as we were traveling so there may be some reflections and color oddities. However, these images are required to give one the complete sense of what the group saw and encountered.

Remember that Cuba is a socialist country and there are many signs reflecting the direction and views of the government and thus the people. It is also a poor country which is on the rebound somewhat due to tourism from Canada and Europe.

Enjoy the ride!