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Embrace our differences and make progress together

（Sorry，This article was accidentally deleted during revision）

Every place is diverse and in constant flux. They are dynamic products of multiple cultural, historical, political and economic forces, not static single entities. To reduce destinations to "symbolic symbols" is to deny this inherent diversity and complexity.（Davis， 1972）

Guidebooks often equate Cuba with vintage American cars, cigars and rum, painting a nostalgic and exotic picture of romance. But this single stereotype does not fully reflect this diverse and dynamic country. As visitors, we should look beyond these iconic symbols to understand all aspects of Cuba with a more open eye. Listen to the life stories of ordinary people, their hopes and struggles for the future. Trace the colonial legacy behind Cuba's distinctive architecture, as well as the cultural voices that have been marginalized.（Martínez，1993） Learn about the impact of economic transformation on local societies and how people struggle to find opportunities in them. Cuba is not just a frozen tropical paradise, but a dynamic and complex reality. As travelers, we have a responsibility to touch its rich pulse of life, not stop at the surface scenery. Only by experiencing the many faces of this country with an open mind can we truly appreciate its unique beauty.

Davis, N. J. (1972). Labeling Theory in Deviance Research: A Critique and Reconsideration. The Sociological Quarterly, 13(4), 447–474. http://www.jstor.org/stable/4105518

Martínez, T. Y., & Capote, N. (1993). The History of Cuba and Its Interpreters, 1898-1935. The Americas, 49(3), 369–385. https://doi.org/10.2307/1007031

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Dear readers and friends：

As a blogger, I often experience cultural shocks and confusion to varying degrees during my travels. Each time I enter a new country and face unfamiliar languages, customs, and values, I inevitably feel a sense of struggle and insecurity. This feeling of cultural shock stems from our attachment to familiar things and fear of the unknown.

Most of us are rooted in a certain cultural soil from a young age, with our hometown's way of life, beliefs, and traditions ingrained in our genes, becoming an important reference for our judgments of right and wrong. When we find ourselves in a foreign culture, these subconsciously formed values are often challenged and questioned, leading to feelings of maladjustment and confusion.

Taking myself as an example, as someone from a traditional country, I deeply experienced this cultural shock during my first trip to Cuba. The relaxed pace of life here clashed with my accustomed work efficiency; the people's devoutness to religious beliefs differed greatly from the social background I came from; even the way of eating, which incorporates Spanish, African, and other culinary cultures, was a challenge for my taste buds.(MACKENZIE,2023) 

Although I initially felt lost, gradually I began to understand and accept these differences with an open and curious mindset. I realized that every culture has its unique historical origins and value pursuits, crystallizing the living wisdom of local people through generations, and deserving respect. I also learned to face and embrace things different from my background with a peaceful mind.

In general, the key to alleviating cultural shock is to embrace differences with an open and friendly attitude, and to observe and reflect on the reasons behind differences with a rational and tolerant perspective.(Kraidy, 2005) In addition to maintaining curiosity and a desire to learn, one should also have a humble heart, willing to accept new ideas with a peaceful mind. As Mencius said, "When one has fully understood the past, one is prepared to understand the present." （Mencius is Chinese philosopher and educator during the Warring States period.) We should not only understand the roots of our own culture but also bravely step out of our established mindset to experience the unique charm of foreign cultures.

Taking Cuba as an example, it blends elements from Spanish, African, Caribbean, and other cultures, and it is this diversity that has created its distinctive appeal. The cobalt blue colonial buildings in Old Havana exude the colors of the Spanish colonial period; the Viñales Valley preserves the most authentic rural scenery, evoking nostalgia; while the Trinidad and Valle de los Ingenios regions bear witness to the rise and fall of the colonial-era sugar industry, leaving many precious cultural relics and ancient sites... Each of these World Heritage sites contains rich cultural connotations, waiting for us to explore and appreciate.

（BBC, 2019)

Therefore, when faced with cultural differences, we should not be overly fearful or resistant but rather try to understand and accept them with an open and friendly attitude. By maintaining a humble and eager-to-learn mindset, empathizing with and appreciating the unique charms of different cultures, we can surely alleviate that sense of cultural shock and confusion. While experiencing foreign cultures, let us also reflect anew on the essence of our own culture, thereby achieving the wisdom of "reviewing the old to understand the new." I hope that everyone who has the opportunity to encounter different cultures can grow in this process and embrace a more inclusive and broad-minded spirit.

BBC, (2019). Historic architecture: The charm of Old Havana, the capital of Cuba. https://www.bbc.com/ukchina/simp/50452778

Kraidy, M. M. (2005). Hybridity, or the Cultural Logic of Globalization. Temple University Press. http://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt1bw1k8m

MACKENZIE FILSON, (2023). 18 Cuban Recipes You've Gotta Try ASAP. https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/g43968398/cuban-recipes/

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mark this Cuba is home to three UNESCO World Heritage locations - Old Havana, Viñales Valley, and Trinidad and the Valley of the Sugar Mills. These historic areas face various challenges in terms of conservation and sustainable management.

（UNESCO，1999）

As a blogger, I know I cannot stand by idly. I will continue to introduce the unique charm of these World Heritage sites on my blog and call on more people to pay attention and support UNESCO's conservation efforts. For example, I can launch a reader campaign to collect old photos and manuscripts of Cuban cultural relics for record keeping and publicity purposes.

I can also invite residents or scholars to write articles and share their understanding and emotions towards their hometown’s cultural heritage. In addition, I will strive to collaborate with UNESCO and local cultural institutions, or team up with like minded individuals, to organize some online and offline charity events. Through lectures, photography exhibitions call for people to pay attention. All proceeds will be donated to UNESCO's restoration projects in Cuba. Together, we can preserve this historical legacy for future generations.

UNESCO, (1999). Viñales Valley. https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/840/

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Re-Drawing the Map: A Journey Through Cuba's Global Connections （mark this）

Havana, Cuba - As I sat on the sea wall at the Malecon, the sea breeze brought the waves from the Florida Straits, I'm reminded of just how connected this island nation is to the wider world. The colonial buildings lining the streets with their distinctive Spanish architecture are one obvious link to Cuba's historical ties to Europe. But look closer and you'll find influences from around the globe woven into the fabric of Cuban culture.

（MALECÓN，2015）

On my first night in Havana's Vedado neighbourhood, I wandered into a lively casa de la música drawn in by the infectious Afro-Cuban rhythms spilling out onto the street. As I nursed a mojito, I watched locals and visitors alike become enraptured by the fast-paced rumba dancing. The vibrant moves were clearly influenced by the Bantu cultures of west and central Africa, brought over by enslaved people during the colonial era.

This blending of cultures isn't unique to dance and music. You can trace these global connections through Cuba's diverse cuisine too. Of course, these influences go both ways across the Florida Straits. In Miami's Little Havana, you can sip an authentic Cuban coffee while surrounded by Americana like Chevrolet car sculptures - reminders of the lasting Cuban impact on the United States too.

As travellers, we're taught to search for the "authentic" version of places and cultures. But the more I experience, the more I realize authenticity is a nebulous concept. What I find more rewarding is leaning into the specificity of how people and places intermingle in complex ways over time.

So hey, I'm all about inviting you to see travel like this wherever you go. Let's ditch this idea of hard lines between cultures. Instead, let's celebrate the long story of folks mingling and swapping stuff that really jazzes up our world.

My next stop's Trinidad, and I'm pumped to dive into its own web of worldwide connections. Hope you'll stick around for the ride as we keep exploring this interconnected journey! Wonder what colourful threads we'll unravel in Cuba next?

、

MALECÓN, (2015). Great public spaces. https://www.pps.org/places/malecon

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A city tour of Havana （mark this）

Havana's streets are a living museum of architectural styles, telling the story of Cuba's rich history and cultural influences. As I wander through the old quarter, I'm awestruck by the melange of colonial, baroque, art nouveau and art deco buildings lining the narrow roads.

（Wiki, 2009）

One of the most impressive sights is along the Paseo del Prado, a grand boulevard with rows of stately neoclassical mansions painted in vibrant pastels. Their wrought iron grilles, overhanging balconies and terracotta tiled roofs evoke the elegance of 18th century Havana.

（Thin，2022）

Nearby, the Plaza Vieja showcases exquisite examples of Cuban baroque architecture with its ornate facades and picturesque archways. Buildings like the Casa del Conde Jaruco feature intricately carved stone, while the Iglesia del Espíritu Santo church dazzles with its yellow and white kilometer towers.

（Thin，2022）

But some of my Favorite Street scenery comes from the eclectic, time-worn buildings where habaneros go about their daily lives. Laundry hanging from wrought iron balconies, elderly men playing dominoes on stoops, children kicking soccer balls in the streets - it's these animated scenes backed by the vintage architectural canvas that capture the true spirit of Cuban urbania.

(Thin,2022)

Havana's streets may be rough around the edges, but the dazzling mix of architectural styles and rich patina of ages is irreplaceable eye candy for any traveling aesthete.

Thin leg man, (2022). This book gives us a reason to fall in love with Havana" - writing the Cuban landscape in color, walking in the faded and psychedelic streets of Havana "Havana on the Street". https://www.everydayobject.us/havana-viewfinder/

Wiki, (2009). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paseo_del_Prado,_Havana

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（Mark This）

Cuba has its own kind of romance and charm. It's all about those leisurely walks down streets lined with classic American cars, are like time machine. This landscape mostly from the 1950s, It is now one of the labels of Cuba, standing tall as symbols of witness history, both economically and politically.

Hey, these cars ain't just rides, they're like moving masterpieces, you know? They glide through Cuban life, dripping with style and memories. And when you hop into one of these babies, it's like stepping into a time warp, they were forgotten by time. It's like they've got their own little slice of magic, keeping the spirit of Cuba alive and kicking.

Yeah, those old cars sure are something, but they're just one thread in the wild tapestry of Cuban life. It's easy to get swept up in the clichés – the cigars, the rum, the Che Guevara posters – but there's a whole world waiting to be uncovered.

Step off the beaten path, and you'll stumble upon a treasure trove of traditions, Flavors, and tales just begging to be heard. Whether you're digging into homemade picadillo at a cozy family joint or busting a move at a local salsa spot, each moment is like a peek into Cuba's beating heart.

And you know, it's not just about the symbols and clichés we see at first glance. It's the bonds we form and the memories we make that really paint the picture of our travels. So, as you explore the streets of Cuba, let the vintage cars guide you on your journey, but don't forget to wander off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the authentic rhythms of island life. Who knows what hidden treasures you'll discover along the way?

Rufina Kaloyanova, (2022). Cuba’s Classic car Phenomenon. https://www.lovecuba.com/blog/cubas-classic-car-phenomenon/

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Welcome to AAAmber' Blog:

Wanderlust Chronicles: Embarking on a Journey of Discovery

Hi, I'm Amber Zhang, also my Chinese name is Yuanxi Zhang.

Welcome to Wanderlust Chronicles, where every adventure is a story waiting to be told! I'm thrilled to kick off this journey with you as we delve into the beauty of our world, one destination at a time.

As a student hailing from the vibrant land of China, I've always been captivated by the allure of exploration. Whether it's the serene landscapes of rural countryside or the bustling streets of metropolitan cities, each corner of our planet holds a unique charm waiting to be unraveled.

For me, travel isn't just about visiting tourist spots; it's about immersing myself in diverse cultures, tasting exotic cuisines, and connecting with people from all walks of life. It's a journey of self-discovery, where every experience shapes and enriches my perspective on the world.

With a heart brimming with curiosity and a mind eager for adventure, I'm setting out to explore destinations far and wide. From the ancient wonders of historical sites to the hidden gems tucked away in remote corners, there's so much to discover and share.

Join me as I embark on this exhilarating voyage, sharing insights, tips, and tales from the road. Let's uncover the beauty of our world together, one adventure at a time.

Stay tuned for the upcoming chapters of Wanderlust Chronicles, where we'll dive into the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultures that await us. Until then, keep dreaming, keep exploring, and never stop seeking the wonders that await beyond the horizon.