While Fidel Castro halted development in the 1960’s, he simultaneously preserved iconic hotels and colonial towns just now being restored. The artistic influence on Cuban culture is a diverse cultural blend of African, South American, European and North American elements, reflective in the diversity of Cuba’s local people. The time warp may soon be over with ever changing travel policies, the influx of American tourism and rapid international development. Preserving the Cuban arts – from dance and music to writers and visual artists – will be more important than ever.

In this OhThePeopleYouMeet series, Michaela brings together experts in all things Cuba. The panel will discuss fine and performing arts,first hand experiences with Cuban artists, research of the UNESCO historic city centers and sustainable organizations that are working to preserve the Cuban arts both on and off the island.

To learn more about Cuba, learn all the basics in Michaela’s Map: Intro to Cuba and then get adventurous with Michaela’s Map: Cycling Across Central Cuba.