Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Culture
Fundamentally, the tenets of Cuban culture are sharing and community involve-
ment towards accomplishing common goals. This sentiment is not simply the result
of propaganda; it does actually have deep-seated significance within the Cuban
society. The country is literally an island, and, for the majority of its history, Cuba
was simply a far flung Spanish colony whose inhabitants were both disenfran-
chised and left to fend for themselves. Cubans were forced to rally around these
cooperative themes and rely on themselves for every need.
Even after the Cuban revolution, the culture still retained its backbone of commu-
nity spirit. In many ways, the fact that the country has been under communist gov-
ernment control for the last half decade has actually helped to develop and pre-
serve the fundamental identity of Cuba. Whereas the most pressing concern in
most developed countries is career furtherance and money, Cubans as a whole,
have been able to continue focusing on communal progression and social develop-
ment.
At the same time, the community spirit which thrives on the island can sometimes
make foreigners feel alienated. Some Cubans, especially those from rural areas,
still retain a sense of distrust or apprehension towards foreigners. This is not
primarily due to fear, but rather inexperience. In a large city like Havana, which
sees many tourists each year, most locals are warm and welcoming. As integration
and interaction with foreigners increases, the icy Cuban facade is melting.
Dancing is one of the most popular Cuban activities. Salsa dance and music thrive
throughout the island, and it seems like almost everyone, young or old can suavely
sway to a good beat. There is also a strong prevalence of formally trained baller-
inas and musicians.
Music is also incredibly popular. It can often be heard blaring out of apartment and
car windows from morning until night. All genres are represented, from traditional
Cuban music, often referred to as
son
, to faster paced salsa, rumba and reg-
gaeton. Songs often revolve around the subjects of poverty, country or city lifestyle,
and love. Rock and roll music is also very popular and especially from older bands
such as the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.
Art is another point of significance. Whether it be painting, wood carving, craft
making, sewing, photography, singing, acting or writing, the average Cuban likely
has at least one artistic talent and is not shy at all to show it off.
The intricate aspects of any culture are very difficult to summarize, but as you con-
tinue reading this guide, you will gain a good understanding of the Cuban identity.
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