1. A Word on Cuba Travel ...... 3 2. How to Pack ...... 4 3. Questions Related to Money ...... 6 4. Communications ...... 8 5. Transportation within Cuba ...... 10 6. Food ...... 11 7. Taking Care of Your Health ...... 12 8. Tipping ...... 13 9. Bringing Home Cuban Goods ...... 14 10. Nuisances ...... 15 11. Staying OFAC Compliant ...... 16 12. Other Useful Travel Guides ...... 17 13. Books on Cuba ...... 18 14. Cuban and Cuban-American Fiction ...... 19 15. Cuban Movies ...... 19

As in most underdeveloped countries, there are always unexpected occurrences that can throw a wrench into the best travel plans. Cuba is no exception. We have developed this orientation guide to help you prepare for your trip and to make your time there more trouble-free and enjoyable.

You may be amazed at how creative and resourceful Cubans are at solving problems that may arise, but remember, Cuba has one of the most highly educated populations in all of the Americas.

As a result of private expansion, many people have taken an extra job or become entrepreneurs to help themselves economically. This means that your waitress may have an MBA or your taxi driver may have an advanced degree in engineering.

Most importantly, it is helpful to have a sense of humor and look at your time in Cuba as an adventure. Even if things don't go exactly as you expect, chances are you'll still have a wonderful time.

Weather: In late October, you can expect daytime temperatures to be in the 80s and nighttime temperatures in the low 70s, with a 25-30% chance of rain. Dressing in layers works well. Avoid wearing a lot of dark colors in the daytime because they absorb more heat. The sun will be hot and it's easy to get sunburned, so bring sunscreen lotion, a hat, and sunglasses.

Clothing: Casual business attire is good for meetings and official events. Most Cuban men don't wear suits and ties. Guayaberas (or a button-down or other collared shirt) and well-pressed trousers are fine. Women can wear dresses, skirts or pants. Shorts are appropriate for men or women in resort areas, around the pool, or even on the street in very informal settings. At night, people tend to dress up a bit if they're going out to listen to music and dance or to eat in a nice restaurant.

Jewelry: If it is expensive, leave it at home. Excessive jewelry is considered gauche.

Shoes: Above all, bring comfortable shoes that are good for walking on uneven surfaces. You'll want to go out and explore, and it's important that you have shoes that will not produce blisters or cause you to twist an ankle. Sandals are ok, but remember that sometimes streets can be dirty or muddy. To keep your feet clean and safe, you might prefer to wear closed shoes and socks. Bring at least one pair of "dress" shoes for more formal occasions. For women, this doesn't have to mean high heels. Flat shoes are more practical in most circumstances.

Laundry facilities: Not all private houses and hotels offer laundry service, and there aren't public laundry mats in Cuba. So, you will either need to bring enough clothes to go without laundry service for a week, or you will need to wash your clothes by hand in your room. You may be able to find someone to do your laundry for you for a fee, but there's no guarantee of it.

Toiletries: Most of the time you can find basic things like soap and shampoo at the stores in Cuba, but there is always the danger that things will run out or not be available. Even something basic like toothpaste or deodorant could be scarce. It's better to bring what you need with you. Whatever you use on a daily basis, bring enough to last for the time you're there. Don't assume you can buy what you need in Cuba. Hotels don't always provide toiletries (soap, shampoo, lotion) for you, so it's best to bring your own.

Over the counter medications: Whatever you think you might need while in Cuba, bring it with you. It's very difficult, if not impossible, to find these items in Cuba. This includes: tylenol, ibuprophen, antacids, diarrhea medication, laxatives, feminine hygiene products, antihistamines, allergy pills, cough drops, cold remedies, pepto bismal, etc. Also consider bringing a small first aid kit with band- aids and antibacterial ointment. You may also want to bring mosquito repellent and anti-itch cream, just in case. If you normally take vitamins, bring them with you.

Prescription medications: bring them in the original pharmacy bottle with labels.

Other useful things:

x a small flashlight (it’s rainy season so power outages can be frequent) x an alarm clock x a washcloth, if you use one x an electrical outlet adaptor (3 prong to 2 prong for the wall outlet)* x a surge protector (if you plan to have a laptop with you) x travel size packets of Kleenex (some public toilets may not have tissue) x travel size hand sanitizer x pens, notebook x a small bag or back pack you can use for daily outings x something to read x a small lock for your suitcase

Make a color copy of your passport to carry with you so you can keep your actual passport locked up in your room. You will only need your original passport for changing money, more on that later.

DON’T FRY YOUR GEAR: Most of the outlets at private houses and hotels run at 110 volts just like in the USA, but some places have 220 volts like in Europe. Many of the 220 volt outlets are labeled or stand out but if you’re unsure, ask before plugging in and know if any of your equipment requires a voltage adapter.

GIFTS: It's not necessary to bring gifts to Cubans unless you have already established a personal friendship with someone there. For more comments about giving gifts to people in Cuba, see the information under "Tipping"

The situation between the USA and Cuba could change at any time, but as of now (September 2015) the information below is correct. As things change, we'll update the information sheet.

Quick facts:

o As of this writing, Cuba is still a cash only economy for US travelers – no traveler’s checks, no credit cards, no access to ATMs. Plans are underway to make it easier for people from the US to use their credit cards, but for now your US based credit cards/ ATM cards will not work in Cuba. Cash is the only thing that works for sure. Keep your cash safely locked in the hotel or room safe and only carry what you need on you each day. Casas may not have a lockbox but your stuff is generally very safe.

o When budgeting for your trip, it's best to take some "extra" cash since you don’t have access to ATMs. Don't assume you can have extra money wired to you easily or get a cash advance on a credit card if you run out of money. Don't spoil your trip by running out of money or feeling that you are always short of funds.

o Unlike other countries, the USD is not accepted as currency in Cuba. Once you arrive, you will need to convert your cash to CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso). You can change money at the airport, at CADECAs (money exchange houses) or banks. Some hotels will change money, but they charge a higher service fee.

o Cuba has two currencies, CUC or Cuban Convertible Peso (“divisa”, “fula”, “chavitos”) and CUP or Cuban National Peso (“moneda nacional”). Most visitors to Cuba only need CUCs. If for some reason you want to buy CUPs, the exchange rate is $1 CUC = $24 CUPs. You can ask for CUPs when you change money. Keep in mind, however, that most places tourists visit will expect payment in the CUC.

o Online currency converters show that the exchange rate between the USD and the CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) is $1 = $1. This is very misleading. In reality, the exchange rate is $1.00 USD = $0.87 CUC. Keep this in mind as you plan your budget.

o To maximize the value of your currency exchange, consider converting your USD to a different currency (e.g., Canadian dollars or Euros) before traveling to Cuba. You will need to get currency rates from your bank and do the math to determine if prevailing exchange rates give you greater value than $1.00 US = $0.87 CUC.

Additional advice:

o For the currency you wish to exchange, only bring bills that are in good condition. Foreign exchange cashiers (CADECAS) will not exchange torn or worn out bills. Always ask for the printed receipt when you change money. Count your money before leaving. Take a calculator so you can check the sum if you have doubts. Avoid bills larger than 20 CUC. Many places may have trouble offering change for large denominations.

o Unlike other countries, you are required to carry your original passport, especially, when you are attending an event or activity that involves a university, university official or if you are visiting a campus. Be sure to always keep it safe!

o Some Cubans like to change your USD for CUCs on the street, offering you a better deal. If you cannot tell the difference between CUCs and CUPs, it is best to change money at a CADECA or a bank and avoid potential scams. Also, you need that receipt for OFAC reasons.

o Hotels and guest houses will have a safe in the room. Use it. Don't leave money lying around your room or in an open suitcase. Generally, theft is not a problem, but better to be safe than sorry.

o Carry only the cash you think you'll need that day. In general, there's not a big problem with pick pockets and theft on the street, but anything is possible, so don't take chances.

o There is no federal per diem rate, but Cuban prices can be on par with most major US cities. Based on our experience, daily per diem for meals and incidentals average to 60 CUC per day.

o Drinks can be cheap in local bars, but in areas that cater to tourists you can expect to pay as much as 6 CUC for a cocktail. If you like to imbibe, carry extra.

Things are evolving all the time in Cuba, but as of now (September 2016) the information below is correct. As things change, we'll update the information sheet.

Quick facts about phones

o Satellite phones are illegal in Cuba. Leave them at home!

o As of this writing, Verizon and Sprint are the only US carriers that offer roaming services in Cuba. Check with your provider before you travel regarding call, messaging and data costs.

o The easiest way to make a phone call is to buy a phone card from ETECSA (the Cuban national telecoms company) and use a public telephone.

o If you have an unlocked quad band GSM phone, you have two choices for obtaining mobile phone service in Cuba. Both of these options are available at an ETECSA store at the airport. Availability varies widely once in the cities:

1. You can purchase a prepaid SIM card. The card costs 40 CUC and you are required to add a minimum of 10 CUC credit on the phone. Once you run out of credit, you can replenish your account by purchasing additional credit at an ETECSA store. This is the preferred option if you intend to make repeated visits to Cuba. The phone number assigned to you is yours permanently.

2. You can rent a SIM card for 3 CUC a day (must be prepaid). They are also available for purchase in the cities but they are often sold out.

o When using a Cuba calling plan (Cubacel), calling the United States costs 1.10 CUC per minute. It costs 0.35 CUC per minute to call in-country. There is no charge for receiving phone calls.

o Texting to the United States is unavailable but you can receive texts. Sending text in-country costs 0.09 CUC.

o If you have a Canadian or European cell phone, it may work, but check with your provider about the rates. It can be very expensive to call from Cuba, and you may pay very high roaming charges.

o If you are staying in a casa particular, never assume it's ok to use the home owner's phone, even for local calls. The use of the phone isn't included in the price you're paying to stay in the house. Always ask first. Most hosts are gracious enough to let you use them.

o If you are in a hotel, be aware there are charges for local and long distance calls you make from your room, and generally you will pay more calling from your room than if you call from a public phone with a phone card.

Quick facts about internet: o Internet access is accessible by purchasing cards that cost $2 CUC for 60 minutes.

o Wi-Fi is not as widely available in Cuba as it is in the USA. If you're staying in a casa particular, you will probably not have a Wi-Fi connection from the house. Not all hotels have Wi-Fi. Cuba is taking steps to establish more public Wi-Fi connection sites, but for now they are limited.

o In Havana, larger hotels like the Hotel Capri and Hotel Nacional will sell you a card that allows you wireless access to the internet if you have your own laptop, tablet or smart phone. They also have business centers, where you can use their computer for a fee.

o In Cienfuegos, there are several Wi-Fi spots throughout the historic area: o Parque Jose Marti o La Hotel Union“El Rapido” along el Malecon o El Hotel Jagua o The Marina in Punta Gorda

o You can buy a prepaid internet card from ETECSA, and you can use the computers in their office for no additional charge.

o Skype is not available in Cuba. Whatsapp and IMO are the most commonly used VoIP services. Facetime works for Apple users. Success varies depending on the number of people connected to the WiFi hotspot. If you plan to communicate, bring a headset to use as these hotspots tend to be crowded with people doing the same thing so it gets pretty loud.

Additional Advice

o Weigh the pros and cons of carrying your laptop or tablet to Cuba. What will you be using it for? How much do you need it? Will you be worried about losing it or having it stolen? Chances are no greater in Cuba than anywhere else that your personal property will be stolen, but if you leave your laptop lying around unattended in a hotel lobby, or you forget and leave it in a taxi, someone might take it. Also, how much of your time in Cuba do you want to spend sitting in front of a computer screen?

o Tell your friends and family not to expect to hear from you every day, and not to worry about you if they don't hear from you. If for some reason ETECSA runs out of cards for phone calls or internet access, you may have to go a few days without communicating. You don't want people at home to panic if you don't call when expected.

o We'll supply you with emergency contact information that you can give to your family so in the event of a true emergency, they'll be able to locate you. Ask them to follow us on Twitter @CivitasGES. But seriously, we run active social media while we’re down there on Facebook and Twitter. Ask them to follow @CivitasGES if they want a glimpse of you.

When you travel with an organized group, you'll have an air-conditioned private bus to pick you up at the airport, take you to your accommodations and group activities. The key to smooth group travel is arriving on time for the bus. Your tour leader will let you know when and where to meet, and it's critical that you be on time. On some days, the itinerary is very tight so delays may cause the entire group to miss certain meetings or visits. So, please, be considerate and be on time.

If you want to go out and explore in your free time take a taxi. The best bet is to ask your hotel or host to call you a radio taxi to pick you up. Although most taxis in Cuba are safe, the radio taxis have the advantage of being traceable in case you accidentally leave behind something in the cab, or if you have a problem you want to report to the taxi service. In addition, the drivers are very professional and the cars are in excellent condition, relatively. Up to 4 people can share a taxi if you are going to the same destination. If your taxi doesn’t have a meter, be sure to ask the price before you ride.

Máquinas (old American cars, modified to hold as many people as possible), public buses, horse drawn carts, and other "local color" can be fun experiences, but overall you're better off just taking a regular taxi. These alternate forms of transportation are for the Cuban people, and they're in very high demand, because Cubans can pay for them in moneda nacional (the Cuban national peso). While it's tempting to go the cheap route, remember that when you use these forms of transportation you're taking the place of a Cuban and their options are much more limited. There can be long lines, the vehicles can be very crowded, there's no air conditioning, and the safety conditions are not always the best. Use good judgment when deciding how to get around on your own.

For short term visits in Cuba, bike and scooter rental isn't an option.

Note on Safety: Generally, it's safe to walk almost anywhere in the daytime. At night, you should have no problem if you stick to the well-lit and populated main streets. Avoid dark, deserted places, as common sense demands. Compared to other poor countries, there's relatively little pickpocketing and theft in Cuba, although you can't discount it happening. Never take more money with you than you need when you go out on your own. Leave your passport and travel documents locked in your room. Keep your eye on your belongings (camera, bag, etc.) when you're in a café or bar or other crowded place. Be aware that sidewalks and streets can be uneven, and lighting is not always the best, so take care not to trip and fall. If you use common sense, you should have no problem.

For the most part, Cuban food is made from fresh, local ingredients and is simply prepared. They rely on foods that are grown in Cuba and are in season, so if you are longing for a tomato and it's not tomato season, you may not get one. You won't have the same variety of choices you have at home because some things we take for granted aren't available or are very expensive (imported goods). Typical lunches and dinners involve chicken, pork, fish or seafood as the main dish, with side dishes of root vegetables (yucca, sweet potato, etc.), rice and sometimes beans. Usually you'll also have a small vegetable salad with your meal. Breakfast tends to consist of eggs, bread, coffee with milk, and fruit or juice. If you're a vegetarian, especially a vegan, you'll have some challenges. Don't expect to find soy products, a big variety of nuts, dried fruits, grains and cereals. If you have special dietary concerns, let your tour leader know in advance.

There are small shops that sell snacks but the variety is limited. Almost always you can find ice cream, crackers, cookies, bottled water, soft drinks, juice, beer and rum. We suggest you not eat the snacks offered on the street from food carts or hole-in-the-wall spots because we have no guarantee of the hygiene there and you could get sick. If you need a snack between meals, you might consider bringing something from home (almonds, energy bars, etc.)

Private restaurants are called paladares, and they often serve excellent food. Many people think the food in paladares is better than in state-run restaurants. Don't be afraid to explore your options. As long as you see other foreigners eating there, and the place appears clean, try it out.

ALWAYS drink bottled water while you're in Cuba, not water from the tap. Be sure if you eat fresh fruit that you peel it before you eat it. If you like ice in your drinks, make sure the ice cubes are properly prepared from purified water. If in doubt, ask. Salads made from uncooked vegetables are fine if you eat at a restaurant or family home where they sanitize the produce before serving it. If in doubt, ask. Most places that serve food to tourists know how to take precautions so you won't get sick.

Here are some tips to make sure you stay healthy and enjoy your time in Cuba.

x If you have health concerns, see your regular doctor before you leave home.

x Take your prescription medicines with you in their original bottle with pharmacy labels. Put them in your carry-on bag during travel.

x If you anticipate the need for over the counter medication and treatments such as aspirin, decongestants or antihistamines, antibiotic cream, Band-Aids, antacids, etc. bring a supply with you.

x While you are in Cuba, drink only bottled water (not tap water). If you order a drink with ice, be sure the ice is made from purified water.

x Peel fresh fruit before you eat it. If you are going to eat raw vegetables (like salads) do so in restaurants and homes where the cooks know how to purify and clean vegetables properly. If they are used to dealing with tourists, they will know how to treat the vegetables.

x Generally avoid food for purchase on the street. You can't be sure of the sanitary conditions.

x Wear sunscreen and bring a hat. Even in winter months, the sun in Cuba is strong and heatstroke or sunburn are possible.

x Bring insect repellant! It’s humid there are mosquitos, especially in the evenings.

x Wear comfortable and stable walking shoes. In some areas, you may have to walk on cobblestones or cracked sidewalks or other uneven surfaces. It's easy to twist your ankle if you aren't careful. For city walking tours, it's best to wear closed shoes because city streets can be dirty and you might step on a sharp object like a piece of broken glass.

x The primary cause of illness for visitors is over activity, over indulgence, and exhaustion. We want you to have a good time, but make sure you get some rest.

You will have traveler's health insurance while in Cuba and in the event you become ill, you will be able to go to the international health clinic (or hospital) for treatment. Cuba has excellent doctors and health care workers. As things are changing, some health insurance providers may reimburse you for medical expenses incurred in Cuba. Check with your provider.

The number one rule for tipping in Cuba is like anywhere else: tip for good service, when it feels right to you. And be sure to tip in convertible pesos (CUC) because if you leave dollars, the person you tip will have to go exchange them and you're making extra work for that person. Your tour guide is often the exception but ask him or her first before paying in a foreign currency.

Tipping is an expression of appreciation for good service. Don't tip because you feel sorry for Cubans because you think they're poor. And don't tip as a bribe to get special favors like upgrades in service or special attention.

You need to make a decision about how much you feel comfortable tipping, and do what feels right to you. Don't make a decision based on what others are doing, because they might be off base.

Don’t forget also to be generous with smiles, conversations, and signs of respect. These gestures also go a long way in showing your appreciation.

A general rule of thumb is to be generous but don't go overboard. However, here are some very general guidelines to give you an idea of what is more or less "normal" in certain circumstances:

x The person who cleans your room: about 1 CUC per day x The person who handles your baggage: about 1 CUC per bag x Cuban tour guide: 4-5 CUC per day. x Bus driver: 2-3 CUC per day. x Taxi drivers: nothing unless driver does a special service for you (e.g., carry luggage, waits for you for an unexpected amount of time, etc.) x Meals in restaurants: between 10-15% of the total cost of the meal to the server, if it is an included meal, leave 2 to 3 CUC. x Don’t forget to tip the band! If you really like them, buy their CD. It costs 10 CUC. x Drinks: depending on the cost of the drinks, $1-2 CUCs for every $10 you spend. If you are having just coffee or one soft drink, leave some loose change.

Gifts: In the past, some tourists took small gifts like bars of soap, small bottles of shampoo, pens, etc. to give as tips. We discourage you from doing this. People in Cuba can buy what they need if they have money, so a tip in money is actually much better. The person can then buy what he or she wants. There's nothing wrong with giving a small gift to someone you have met on the trip who has formed a friendship with you. Gifts that are personal in nature or have a connection to your home town or institution are usually best.

Good news! OFAC regulations allow US Citizens to bring back up to $400 USD worth of goods from Cuba. There is a limit of $100 USD for tobacco and alcohol.

If you buy “tourist art” on the streets, these pieces don’t require any special documentation, other than a receipt showing what you paid. However, if you buy a work of art from a gallery or from an established artist, there are special export procedures you must follow. The art gallery will be able to help you navigate the process. You must get a stamp or permit allowing you to take the work of art out of Cuba, or it may be confiscated at the airport. Plan ahead, because sometimes there are delays with the permits.

Now, Cuba has some of the lowest crime rates in all of the Americas. Nonetheless, petty theft and cons can happen, especially to tourists. Be aware of some these and avoid some of the common pitfalls.

Beggars: Be aware that there are now more "beggars" on the streets asking tourists for soap, money to buy milk or medicines, etc. Most of the time these are scams, and you should politely say no. If you give things to them, you will just encourage them and they can quickly become a pest.

Jineteros: People who make a living by manipulating and hustling tourists are called jineteros (females, jineteras) in Cuba. The word literally means "jockey," and these people are "riding" the tourists to make money from them. It can take many forms, from outright prostitution to "friendly" offers of a place to stay, a driver to take you wherever you want to go, a special place to eat, a special price on black market cigars (usually of very poor quality). Once the jinetero/a has you hooked, they'll attach themselves and soak money out of you. These are not sincere offers of friendship, and usually there is a scam attached, so be cautious when people on the street approach you and seem overly friendly. You'll have plenty of chances to make friends and talk to people at the events we've planned in Cienfuegos, where people are interested in you as a person and not your money.

Che Coins: Some people may approach you to sell coins or bills bearing the image of Augusto “Che” Guevara. It is a popular keepsake for many tourists. You may decide to purchase one just keep in mind that it is part of the national currency and worth about $0.12 CUC. You can probably go to a bank or CADECA and get it there too.

Cigars: Although you can find a decent cigar just about anywhere, beware of the ones being sold on the street. Odds are they are not genuine Cohibas, Montecristos or Romeo y Julietas. If authentic is what you are after, stick to the stores. Besides, you are going to want that receipt if U.S. customs ever asks to see one.

The United States’ economic embargo against Cuba was put into effect in 1960 and is still in force today. It was strengthened by the Torricelli Act in 1992 and the Helms-Burton act in 1996. Today, it can be lifted only by an act of Congress. The embargo is enforced by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), who regulates and controls the ability of U.S. citizens and residents to spend money and make financial transactions in Cuba.

Technically, it is not illegal for U.S. citizens to go to Cuba, but it is illegal to engage in any kind of financial transactions in Cuba. This includes spending money on food and lodging, unless OFAC has approved the purpose of your trip. In practical terms, it means Americans cannot go to Cuba to engage in tourist activity.

Americans must travel under one of the 12 licensed categories granted by OFAC to engage in specific kinds of activities. Our trip is licensed by OFAC, therefore, everyone who travels with us must comply with OFAC’s rules or be in violation of US law. Although diplomatic relations between our countries have been restored and some travel categories have been broadened, travel is strictly regulated – for now.

For most every category of travel, OFAC requires you to do two things:

1. Adhere to a Full-Time Schedule 2. Maintain Specific Records

Adhere to a Full-Time Schedule: As a term of your travel with us, you have agreed to adhere to the full time schedule of activities related to our program. When you arrive in Cuba, we’ll provide you with an updated itinerary. After your trip, we will provide you with a final itinerary, which you will keep in your records.

Maintain Specific Records: OFAC requires you to “maintain specific records related to authorized travel transactions.” OFAC is run by the Department of Treasury so you should think of it like income tax records. Keep all receipts and records related to your trip for a period of five years in the unlikely event you get audited. When you buy something in Cuba, ask for a receipt. If it’s not possible to get a receipt, then keep a written log detailing how much you spent, where and when.

One last thing: Prior to your trip, we will provide you with a letter that explains that you are engaging in legally authorized travel to Cuba. Keep it with your travel documents. Upon re-entry into the United States, the immigration officer will ask the purpose of your visit to Cuba. Generally a verbal answer is all that’s required. But in the unlikely event they ask for documentation, you can show the letter.

Here are some other useful travel guides you may wish to purchase before your trip.

x DK Eyewitness Travel Cuba x Insight Guides Cuba x Lonely Planet Cuba x Moon Cuba x National Geographic Traveler Cuba

Brenner, Philip, Marguerite Rose Jiménez, et. al. A Contemporary Cuba Reader: The Revolution under Raul Castro. (Rowman and Littlefield, 2014)

Cluster, Dick and Rafael Hernández. The History of Havana (Palgrave, 2008)

Dominguez, Jorge, ed. Cuban Economic and Social Development: Policy Reforms and Challenges in the 21st century (Harvard Univ. Press, 2012)

Chompsky, Aviva, Ed. The Cuban Reader: History, Culture, Politics (Duke Univ. Press,2004)

English, T.J. Havana Nocturne: How the Mob Owned Cuba and Then Lost it to the Revolution. (Wm. Morrow, 2009)

Frank, Marc. Cuban Revelations: Behind the Scenes in Havana (Univ. Press of Florida, 2015)

Leogrande, William M. and Peter Kornbluh. Back Channel to Cuba: The Hidden History of Negotiations between Washington and Havana. (Univ. North Carolina Press, 2014)

Martínez Fernández, Luis. Revolutionary Cuba: A History (Univ. Press of Florida, 2014)

Pérez Stable, Marifeli, Ed. Looking Forward: Comparative Perspectives on Cuba's Transition. (U Notre Dame Press, 2007)

Pérez, Louis A. Cuba in the American Imagination. Metaphor and the Imperial Ethos. (Univ. of North Carolina press, 2011)

Ramonet, Ignacio. Fidel Castro: My Life, A Spoken Autobiography (Scribner, 2009)

Staten, Clifford. The History of Cuba (Palgrave/ St. Martins, 2005)

Sublette, Ned. Cuba and its Music: from the First Drums to the Mambo. (Chicago Review Press, 2007)

Sweig, Julia E. What Everyone Needs to Know about Cuba, 2nd edition. (Oxford Univ. Press, 2013)

García, Cristina. Dreaming in Cuban.

---. Cubanisimo. The Vintage Book of Contemporary Cuban Literature.

Hijuelos, Oscar. Our House in the Last World.

Obejas, Achy. Days of Awe.

Padura, Leonardo. The Havana Quartet. (Havana Red, Havana Gold, Havana Blue, Havana Black)

Pérez Sarduy, The Maids of Havana.

Yánez, Mirta. Havana is a Really Big City and Other Short Stories.

For a synopsis of the movie, reviews, and availability, check out the International Movie Database. (www. imdb.com)

Anything by Tomás Gutiérrez Alea: Memories of Underdevelopment, The Last Supper, Death of a Bureaucrat, Up to a Certain Point, , Guantanamera

By other directors:

x Habanastation x Love by Mistake x The Waiting List x Barrio Cuba x Portrait of Teresa x Things I Left in Havana x Habana Blues x x Vampires in Havana x A Successful Man x Life is to Whistle x 7 Days in Havana x Havana Suite x El Benny x A Paradise Beneath the Stars x The Horn of Plenty x Juan of the Dead x The Broken Gods x Lucia x The Eye of the Canary x Personal Belongings x The Old House x Nothing More x Adorable Lies