This 10 day educational trip to Cuba provided an excellent overview of Cuba’s socialist achievements and the problems it confronts today. It provided a panoramic view of the changes the Revolution has made in the last half century. The twelve members of the group learned about the history of the Revolution, Cuba’s health care system, education, economic transformation, the political system of Popular Power, women, trade unions, and more.

As veteran world travelers, they had visited many countries before, but many found this trip the most informative they had ever taken. Here were some of their evaluations of the experience. One participant commented “Visiting Cuba was the most intellectually challenging and stimulating trip I have ever taken.“ That was because of the excellent itinerary arranged by the Institute of Philosophy, Cuba’s premier social research center. The Institute set up talks by various specialists as well as encounters with ordinary Cubans in their communities.

One member of the group was impressed that economic difficulties of the people “were overshadowed by their friendliness, willingness to help and share the little they have, their pride in their country and their obvious peaceful existence. I was able to meet and spend time with people who had very little economically, but were talented, had big hearts, were willing to share their gifts with me, and were genuinely happy to do so.

Another commented “I found the trip to be a good mix of a variety of views regarding Cuba. I felt we had an opportunity to speak with representatives from several different government agencies, who seemed open and honest about the strengths and challenges that they are currently facing. Our guides, and the other Cubans that we encountered, also gave us insights into current and past issues they face, long term and daily. I left feeling hopeful about the future of Cuba, with a better understanding of their history and the role the U.S. has played both past and present.”

One thing that puzzled many in our group was why the U.S. has maintained such hostility toward Cuba and its Revolution, especially in light of all it has accomplished for its people. We left with positive feelings. “I sincerely hope that America opens the door to freedom to travel to Cuba like any other destination so that the average American can see this beautiful country, experience its people and culture, and so erase some of the misconceptions and fears created by the propaganda at home.”

The trip “was an amazing experience and exceeded my expectations.” You can experience it yourself by joining the Center’s next educational trip to Cuba. For the 2012 schedule contact cuba@globaljusticecenter.org .