Three Great Cultural Exchanges to Have in Cuba

Although Cuba is just 90 miles off of the coast of Florida, not many people have ever been or even know much about this Caribbean island. Much of that has to do with the political tensions of the U.S. and Cuban Governments over the last few decades. With those tensions shrinking and relations becoming better, it is only a matter of time before the tourism floodgates in Cuba burst open. After that happens, Cuba, for better or worse, will never be the same. If you can get to Cuba before this happens, here are a few cultural exchanges you should take part in on your family vacation.

Go See a Baseball Game

Baseball is known as America’s pastime. But it also has that reputation in Cuba. Baseball was introduced to Cuba in the 1860s by Cuban students returning from studying in America and American sailors who ported in Cuba. Baseball replaced the Spanish bullfights as a source of entertainment. Still under Spanish rule, the government took this as a sign of disrespect and outlawed baseball in Cuba. This transformed baseball from a game to a symbol of freedom and independence. Baseball is important in Cuba and watching one of these games and organizing time to have your kids join a little league practice or to have catch with local Cuban youth can be an amazing experience. This will be an exchange that your kids will not only have fun doing, but will also educate them in immeasurable ways!

Cuba baseball

Visit a Potter’s Studio

Cuban pottery is a popular form of art in Cuba and the works of pottery produced are incredible. The details of the designs are fun and intricate. No two pieces of this ceramic art are the same as they’re all made by hand; making them unique to the artist and to the process. Watching the potter’s while they work will give you and your kids a new appreciation for what it means to “work with your hands.” Take time to speak to the potter and learn from his process, the best case scenario is arranging to visit a potter and share a meal together. There is no cultural exchange like those over a delicious meal!

Play Dominoes

Almost as important as baseball in Cuba, is the game of dominoes. As you explore the streets, alleyways, and parks of Havana you’ll be sure to see one thing over and over again— a table of people playing dominoes in the street. Dominoes is the game of choice for people to play after work for a bit of competition and fun! The game is a bit different in Cuba than here in the U.S. In Cuba, dominoes is played in teams of two, similar to bridge. The other main difference is the dominoes in Cuba go from 0-9 (double 9) opposed to other places that usually play 0-6 (double 6). Meet a local who can show you the ropes of dominoes and teach you a few tips and tricks to improve your game!

Domino Lesson 10

These three cultural exchanges are just the tip of the ice berg when it comes to ideas for your family to have the best Cuban vacation possible. You can also visit community art projects, learn to dance to the Mambo, and join locals for a traditional village roast. With Thomson Family Adventures we can make sure that you have a people to people exchange that you can’t get anywhere else!

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