I spent a couple of weeks in Cuba in 2015, just before Pres. Obama actually visited the country himself. I have friends who have also visited multiple times as the country began to open up.My experience was that the country was very optimistic that the US was going to finally lift the embargo and the opportunities were growing for individual entrepreneurs in every respect.
Tourism was a vital part of that because it brought an influx of foreign currency as well as goods and food supplies to service the growing industry. Small restaurants and B and Bs and small gift and craft shops were appearing. Guides and taxis and service businesses were growing country wide. It became accepted to have American dollars. Infrastructure and housing began to be upgraded. The numbers of people who were trying to leave Cuba for opportunity elsewhere were shrinking. It became easier for Cubans in America and Mexico to visit again and take goods and cash to their families.
Unfortunately, there is still a vocal contingent of Cuban expats in Florida mainly, who are still overly influencing American GOP politics. Trump catered to them, as does Rubio and Scott (grr!) and it got shut down again. They are still holding out hope that they or their heirs will someday return to again become the wealthy ruling class in Cuba.
It’s just a huge shame. It’s a beautiful country only 90 miles from our shores, with much to offer for them and for us.
