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July 20^th marked the anniversary of a historic day for both Cuba and the United States; one year ago, the former Cold War adversaries reopened embassies and officially restored diplomatic relations for the first time in over half a century. Huge crowds swarmed Cuba’s embassy in Washington, DC (and the U.S. embassy in Havana a month later) as the countries’ leaders took part in the flag raising ceremony.

Visiting the Cuban home of literary giant Ernest Hemingway, whose novels and stories I’ve revered is nothing short of a pilgrimage of sorts, and a must for any budding writer.

President Obama made history in March when he became the first sitting U.S. President to travel to Cuba in nearly 90 years.

Okay, so you probably already knew that. But President Obama’s three-day trip to Cuba was just the tip of the iceberg of an exciting year of firsts for the Caribbean nation.

Unlike its sister provinces, displaying visions of colonial vistas and picture-perfect beaches, Santa Clara doesn’t pack on the accolades for beauty. Rather, those interested in the history of the island and its long association with Che Guevara, should make their way to the center of Cuba, for a generous dose of revolutionary history and a growing edgy youth culture. 

President Barack Obama was neither the first nor last head of state to make an official visit to Cuba this year. However, his trip has already been recognized as the most unexpected, important, and original.

Accelerated efforts to restore relations have united two neighbors who share culture, kin, and, notwithstanding the embargo, economies.  

After five decades of diplomatic chilliness between our countries, American businesses may finally get to build new relationships in Cuba. Many Americans would like to explore the potential economic benefits of new trade markets, investment opportunities, and business partnerships in such industries as medicine, agriculture, education, freight, telecommunications, travel, lodging, and food. Although President Obama has made commercial travel to Cuba easier, regulations remain.