Cuba has undergone significant changes since my first visit in 2007 for the Ico-D World Design Congress. Under Barack Obama’s administration, the U.S. normalized relations with the island, easing sanctions and allowing hundreds of thousands of Americans to visit. Over the past decade, Cuba has evolved - brand-new Western hotels have emerged, Old Havana now boasts numerous restaurants, Chinese smartphones have become accessible, and internet access, though still limited, has expanded. Yet, despite these transformations, the soul of Havana remains unchanged. The city still exudes its signature rustic charm, with iconic pre-revolution cars, crumbling colonial architecture, and the ever-present scent of Cuban cigars.

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While wandering through Havana’s streets, I spoke with many Cubans who expressed optimism about the changes and hope for the future, despite ongoing poverty and hardship. Though still underdeveloped in many areas, the island is gradually embracing globalization. A new generation of Cubans is already immersed in Western culture - its music, fashion, and aspirations -yet the spirit of the revolution endures. The presence of Che and Fidel remains woven into daily life, and the Communist Party continues to dominate, even as it cautiously embraces entrepreneurship, consumerism, and the benefits of a booming tourism industry.

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If you do only one thing while visiting Havana, make it a trip to the Malecón at dusk. This iconic seaside boulevard transforms as the sun sets over the ocean and the city skyline. Couples stroll hand in hand, groups of friends gather to watch the waves, and street performers bring the thoroughfare to life with music. Thanks to centuries of cross-cultural influence, Havana is a round-the-clock jam session of staggering diversity - from rumba and jazz to hip-hop, all echoing through its streets.

Despite decades of shortages and sacrifices, the arts - especially music - have flourished. Creativity thrives in Havana, where faded grandeur and vibrant street life are rediscovering their entrepreneurial spirit.