Shortly after returning from Paris, I traveled to Cuba for a week as part of the 4th year fall curriculum. We went to document buildings and study the architecture, guided by Cuban architects who were teaching our studio.

The plane from Miami to Havana was half filled with supplies being brought into the country, with the rest with students and people visiting family. Some buildings in Havana were beautifully maintained, while others were visibly deteriorating. The streets were quieter than I expected. Some classic cars were used as taxis for tourists, and some were lined up on a main street for people to admire.

We visited the El Capitolio, modeled after the U.S. Capitol. Inside, it was completely empty except for some birds. No books in the library, no active use. Some carvings had faces scratched out and names removed. We were instructed to drink only bottled water and eat fully cooked food. Despite this, my roommate and I both became sick with parasites which affected us for years afterwards. One evening we had dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city, and another we spent time at Hotel Nacional de Cuba with live music and ocean views. We also visited Castillo del Morro and stopped at El Floridita which is known for its daiquiris.

What stayed with me most was privilege. I more fully understood how different life could be depending on where you are born.