The Little Havana tour was spectacular.We got to learn some history of Cuba and of Little Havana, and the foods and culture of the Cubans. I had visited Little Havana over 15 years ago, but it seems that there is small improvement in the area's structural and economic situation. Although there is room for much more improvement, some buildings have been modernized and there are less homelessness. Our tour guide even went on to say that safety in the area has improved over the years.
We visited shops where Cuban cigars were made from scratch. We were educated on the different grades of cigars, and the importance of maintaining the humidity in the room soon after the cigars are made. This process helps maintain a longer shelf life and quality of the cigars. We also visited clothing stores where cuban clothes were on display. One such attire is the 'Guayabera' which is mostly a shirt with 4 pockets and pleats and is worn by men on formal occasions. During the visits to the shops and stores, we were educated that many of the store owners were people who were brought to Miami through 'Operation Peter Pan'.....the mass displacement of children from Cuba in the early 60's, soon after the Cuban Revolution led by Castro.
As we approached the Bay of Pigs Memorial, we were given a history lesson on the cause and events which followed. On our way back we tasted cuban foods and ended our tour at the famous 'Ball & Chain'. It was a great tour by Zarelys.