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CUBA | Thursday, 4 July 2013 | Views [493] | View Smaller Image

Here we can see a street vendor selling fresh produce. Cuba is a country where rationing and food shortages are the norm. The introduction of organic and sustainable agriculture was another outcome of the ‘Special Period’. It revolutionised Cuba’s food industry and resulted in the adoption of a locally grown diet which is low on meat but high in wholegrain foods, fruits and vegetables.

Here we can see locals travelling on a crowded camion particular. They may have waited hours for this ride. The truth is Cuba’s transportation was dramatically changed with the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The so called ‘Special Period’ that followed was defined by severe shortages in energy resources in the form of gasoline, diesel and other petroleum products. One of Cuba’s innovations during the ‘Special Period’ was to sanction hitchhiking; as a result certain vehicles were obliged to carry passengers.

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Here we can just make out a band practising in their house. Passers-by stop and gather around as the lively music flows from the residence. Cuba has a colourful and rich music scene and music is intimately tied to its life and culture. Many Cubans put their own energy and style into their music; most forms of the present day music are creolized fusions and mixtures of European and African origin.

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