HAVANA – The recent reopening of embassies and resumption of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba opens a new chapter in the countries’ complicated relationship.
But any visitor to the Cuban capital can see that connections between the two nations run long and deep just by taking stock of all the attractions showcasing American culture and history. Despite decades of hostility, some of these sites even seem to celebrate Americans, while others reflect an anti-U.S. point of view.
Here’s a look:
HEMINGWAY
American writer Ernest Hemingway lived in Cuba on and off for years and worked on some of his most famous books here, including “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “The Old Man and the Sea.” One of Havana’s biggest tourist attractions is his estate at Finca Vigia, visited by literary pilgrims from around the world and Cubans alike. You can’t enter the home, but large open windows provide a good look inside. Liquor bottles and magazines artfully placed amid sofas and tables suggest Hemingway will be back at any moment. Also onsite is Hemingway’s boat, the Pilar.