Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is scheduled to be aboard for the maiden voyage of this Canadian travel venture Nov. 16. Throughout urban Havana there were signs of change as modern hotels have sprouted along the route into the city, and new Peugeot cars and trucks seem to be the official vehicles for taxis and tourist buses in sharp contrast to the preponderance of 1950s American cars, which dominate the streets. Modern phones with card readers could be found inside and outside the marina property and throughout downtown Havana. Perhaps signifying a modest improvement in the economy, the foreign-built department store in Havana was filled with locals and tourists. Street merchants have taken over complete blocks of open areas near the cathedral where the Pope spoke.
Local youth sails in the marina canals.
As a new visitor to Cuba, first-time bluewater sailor Christine Svenson had heard endless tales about the country, but the reality had to be experienced. Havana is a treasure. I wanted to spend much more time in Havana. Certain goods, classified as informational materials, could be brought back to the United States according to the regulations. Included in that exemption would be nautical charts, books, and recorded music on tapes or CDs.