Cuba 2003 → Intro

UST Cuba Trip 2003

In the Spring Term of 2003, the University of Saint Thomas (UST) sponsored a ten day study-abroad trip to Havana Cuba. Most of the participants were graduate students in the Masters of International Management (MIM) program. In addition, one undergraduate student and five non-MIM professionals (who enrolled through the UST Development Center) were in the group. Finally, Jenny Herbst, UST MIM Spanish Professor and Architect of the Cuba study-abroad trip, and myself (her sidekick husband Tim), completed the away party of eighteen.

"The aim of this program was to facilitate research and studies for selected students, who were studying some aspect of the language and culture of contemporary Cuba. This year's theme examined Cuban cultural life, history and economics, as well as U.S.-Cuba current relations." — Jenny Herbst

This would be Jenny's second time to plan and lead a study group to Cuba. The first trip was back in May of 2001, although only half as many people were involved. The pictures and stories Jenny brought back with her on that first trip really made me regret not having gone with. Fortunately, the opportunity arose for me to make up for that mistake. Now, after having went and experienced Cuba for myself, I feel a certain fondness for it in my heart. In fact, Cuba far exceeded my expectations.

This offshoot of my site was a labor of love. Basically, I assembled a digital scrap-book of our trip to Cuba. Included are opinions and impressions from participants, an itinerary (which is more like a traveler's log), and a bunch of stunning photos. Perhaps this glimpse into Cuba will entice others to visit there as well. I know I will definitely be back someday.