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As part of our ministry’s commitment to deepening relationships with the Cuban church and fostering a greater understanding of life on the island, we are honored to share this personal travel journal from Deborah Tarlton. This account provides a firsthand look at Cuba’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality while also highlighting the realities of life under economic and governmental challenges. Through the eyes of a visitor and ministry partner, we hope this journal offers a deeper appreciation of the resilience of the Cuban people and the significance of the work being done to support them.
Proclaim Cuba is dedicated to strengthening the local church and providing resources for pastors, families, and communities, including through the development of Empowering Centers, which will serve as hubs for missions, discipleship, training, and outreach.
Wednesday, January 1: The Journey Begins
The new year started early as I packed my car with my luggage—a checked suitcase and a smaller carry-on—and drove to a friend’s home so we could head to DFW together. At the airport, we met a couple of others joining our group.
After landing in Miami, I ordered an extra-large Uber since our group had grown to nine people. The driver dropped us off a few blocks from our hotel, so we rolled our bags down the street to a quaint hotel in South Beach. The next morning, I was so eager to get to Cuba that I left early for the airport, arriving before the rest of the group.
Thursday, January 2: Arrival in Santiago de Cuba
A helpful travel tip—Cuba now requires an e-Visa instead of a paper visa. A brief hiccup at the airport delayed us, but our Cuban tour guide helped us sort it out. When we arrived in Santiago de Cuba, we faced another challenge: the authorities confiscated about a third of the cash our guide was carrying—money intended for meals and accommodations. It was a stark reminder of the challenges locals face.
Our first stop was the breathtaking Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, a stunning church with intricate stained glass and an ornate pulpit. Lunch at a paladar featured a delicious lamb dish, followed by a visit to San Juan Hill, where we learned about the Cuban-Spanish-American War and Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders.
That evening, we checked into La Hiedra, a private home with a kind host who spoke little English. Fortunately, his nephew Leo, a psychology student, spoke fluently. I had a long conversation with him on our last night in Santiago about his dreams of moving to the U.S.
Friday, January 3: Giving and Exploring Santiago de Cuba
The day began with breakfast at La Hiedra, prepared and served outdoors—a peaceful and beautiful way to start the morning. Afterward, we met with the women of Caritas, a local organization dedicated to helping those in need. They shared about their work, and we had the privilege of giving them donations, including medicine, peanut butter, protein powder, and cash to support their efforts.
Next, we visited El Morro Castle, also known as San Pedro de la Roca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The breathtaking views from this fortress were unforgettable.
Later, we visited Healthy Minds, a dance troupe made up of children ages 6 to 17. Their performances were filled with joy and passion—I captured several videos to remember the moment.
In the evening, we explored downtown Santiago, where I met an elderly man selling small notebooks. I needed a journal and negotiated a price for one, but when I handed him $5, he smiled brightly and gave me three. It was a humbling reminder of how far a small act of generosity can go.
That night, we visited Casa de la Trova for a bongo drum lesson. It’s much harder than the professionals make it look! We then watched another dance performance, and before I knew it, I was at the front of a conga line!
Dinner was at El Lindon Casa de la Paella. Since I ordered a massive serving of paella, our bus driver, Caesar, took the leftovers home to his family—Cubans never waste food!
Saturday, January 4: History, Humor, and Havana Club
Our morning started with a visit to the cemetery where many revolutionary generals are buried, including Fidel Castro’s ashes. Our guide explained Cuban burial customs—most families have large plots that hold 15 to 20 caskets, and after two years, the remains are exhumed and placed in a smaller container.
Before breakfast, I had a humorous moment when I asked Leo if I could feed the rabbits at La Hiedra. He thought I was asking if we were going to eat them! It took some gestures and pointing before he understood that I just wanted to give them food.
In the afternoon, we visited a rum museum to learn about the distillation process behind Cuba’s famous Havana Club.
That evening, we had our final dinner in Santiago at La Hiedra, enjoying one last night in this beautiful city.
Sunday, January 5: A Long Journey to Camagüey
We endured a bumpy six-hour bus ride to Camagüey, as the roads were poorly maintained. When we arrived, we checked into a private hotel called The Rafael.
That afternoon, a few of us took a bicycle tour of the city, visiting the Martha Jimenez Studio. Her artwork was striking, and I was captivated by the cultural vibrancy of Camagüey, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Monday, January 6: Unexpected Delays and a Refreshing Surprise
We set out for Trinidad, but about 30 minutes outside the city, our bus broke down. As we waited for a replacement, a man riding by on a bicycle stopped and used his machete to cut open fresh Cuban coconuts for us. It was the most refreshing drink of the entire trip—thank you, God, for that little blessing!
Once we arrived in Trinidad, we checked into our rooms and went on a walking tour of Colonial Trinidad, yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site. We also visited a women’s crochet cooperative, where I bought my first souvenir—a beautifully crafted burnt-orange crocheted top.
Later, we took another bicycle tour, further immersing ourselves in the charm of Trinidad.
Tuesday, January 7: Sugar Mills and Seaside Beauty
Our first stop was El Valle de los Ingenios, also known as Sugar Mill Valley, a region that was once the heart of Cuba’s sugar industry. There, I found a handmade straw hat for only $10—though I didn’t have my purse with me, the kind trip organizer paid for it. I told myself I’d find him later to pay him back… or maybe it was just a blessing I should accept.
Next, we visited the Santander Pottery Studio and watched an elderly craftsman effortlessly create three pieces of pottery in minutes. From my limited experience, I knew this was no easy task!
In the afternoon, four of us went to Playa Ancon, a breathtaking white sand beach. The water was cool but perfect for swimming. I could have stayed there much longer, but our itinerary called us back.
That night, we made the mistake of eating at a government-run restaurant. The service was slow, even though we were among the first to arrive, and the food was disappointing. Even the flan was dried out—lesson learned: stick with privately owned restaurants!
Wednesday, January 8: The Bay of Pigs and the Road to Havana
Our group departed for the Bay of Pigs Museum, but en route, our guide, Marlon, took us to Playa Larga and Cienfuegos. In Cienfuegos, we stopped at a stunning multi-story home that had belonged to a wealthy sugar cane baron. After his death, the mansion became a casino, and today it serves as a restaurant.
As we boarded the bus to leave, it wouldn’t start! While we waited for a replacement, I wandered across the street to explore Casa Verde, a beautifully restored green-painted guesthouse. Along that stretch of road were several small hostels, all sitting against the backdrop of the serene, blue bay.
When we finally arrived at the museum, I had little interest in seeing more war history, so I opted to explore the local pharmacy instead. The shelves were shockingly bare, yet another reminder of Cuba’s economic struggles.
Lunch in Playa Larga was a highlight, as we enjoyed fresh crab while overlooking the water. Afterward, we boarded our bus and made the journey to Havana, where we checked into the beautiful Grand Astor Hotel.
(Entries for these days remain unchanged.)
Thursday, January 9: Havana and the Empowering Center
After breakfast, we met Carmen, our local guide, as the government requires that tours in Havana be led by locals. We explored Old Havana on foot, immersing ourselves in the city’s vibrant history. Lunch in Old Havana was another memorable experience.
Later, we visited the Proclaim Cuba Empowering Center, a key hub for ministry, discipleship, and community outreach. This center serves as a space for pastoral training, worship, and local support initiatives. Seeing firsthand how the center is equipping local believers and strengthening the church was incredibly inspiring.
As evening approached, we were driven in classic restored Chevys to a fortress, where professional bartenders demonstrated how to mix mojitos and a traditional Cuban cocktail. It was a lively and educational way to end the day.
Friday, January 10: A Special Excursion
After breakfast, I ventured on a solo excursion! My taxi was a pink-and-white 1952 Chevy, driven by a man who introduced himself as Junior (though I suspect that was just the name he gave to Americans). Junior drove me to see the Proclaim Cuba Empowering Center, and I was given a tour by Marjorie and her interpreter, Alejandro. Marjorie’s dog, Tina, followed us every step of the way as I captured videos and photos of the incredible work being done to create a vital space for ministry and outreach.
Back at the hotel, I enjoyed a delicious omelet before catching up with a friend from home on WhatsApp. Later, Tracy invited me to lunch with her and her husband, Mike, and we shared a relaxed meal over pizza.
That afternoon, I was the only one in our group who chose to visit a group of young girls playing guitars and ukuleles. They performed beautifully in both English and Spanish. On the way to their performance, we passed by the Canadian and American Ambassadors’ homes, which stood in stark contrast to the surrounding area.
Dinner that evening was at The Loft, where a portion of our group met up. I didn’t realize the men planned to smoke cigars there, which was definitely not my cup of tea!
Saturday, January 11: Returning Home
Everyone except Phillip was on the same flight back to Miami, which was delayed by two hours. Once we landed, there was a mad dash to retrieve our bags and rebook connecting flights. In the rush, I grabbed the wrong bag! But what seemed like a hassle turned into a blessing—after a quick prayer for guidance, I was immediately helped by a kind man who found my luggage and directed me to Special Services. Within minutes, I had checked my bag and received a standby ticket for an earlier flight.
At the gate, I reunited with Tracy and Mike, who were also flying standby. Miraculously, we all made it onto the 7:30 p.m. flight, while the rest of our group had to wait for the 9:30 p.m. departure. That extra time allowed me to sit down and enjoy a much-needed burger before heading home.
After eleven days without driving, getting behind the wheel felt a bit strange, but as I pulled into my driveway, I was filled with gratitude. My Connection Class of 30+ women had been praying for safe travels, and God had answered those prayers time and again.
Final Thoughts
This journey was filled with history, faith, generosity, and unexpected joy. From the warmth of the Cuban people to the challenges they navigate daily, this experience deepened my understanding and my heart for this island. Proclaim Cuba's ongoing work, particularly the development of Empowering Centers, is making a tangible difference—equipping local believers and providing essential resources for ministry!
Until next time, Cuba—thank you for the memories.
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