Today’s news that the Obama Administration has taken steps to ease diplomatic relations with Cuba is interesting. I’m leery of stepping into a big political debate here, but in my mind, it’s high time. Obviously, what we’ve been doing for the last 50 years or so hasn’t worked. It is past time for a new approach to our neighbors just 90 miles to the south.

I’ve cruised the Caribbean many times just off the shores of Cuba looking at the island with wonder. I have to imagine that the day is soon coming that I will be able to travel there freely. Your run of the mill Carnival or Royal Caribbean cruise won’t be sailing to the island anytime soon, but cruises already sail there that are from other countries carrying other nationalities. I have to admit that MrsMJ and I have discussed the idea of sailing to Cuba on more than one occasion.

Ordinary tourism remains prohibited, and I expect that to continue for some time. However, the inevitable will eventually happen. The island is going to open for business. Havana could become almost as ubiquitous as Nassau on cruise itineraries. As an avid cruiser, I look forward to the opportunity to sail to Cuba eventually. That said, I have to admit that I hope I get to go before the big ships get there. In the meantime, I’ll just settle for a cigar without threat of arrest and/or fine. Most importantly, I’ll hope this is the first step towards more freedom and opportunity for the Cuban people.

-MJ, December 17, 2014

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