Jeannie's Journal: The Two-Sides of Travel

Hi there,

I’m just back from a week in Cuba and am so elated I’m still salsa-ing in my sleep. The super-fine group of NextTribers and I soaked in the music, dance, and art that are the lifeblood of the country. 

But on our Cuba 2024 text group yesterday, Bridget Morin shared a BBC story stating that in an unprecedented move, the Cuban government has asked for help from the United Nations food program. There’s a serious shortage of, among other things, powdered milk, which impacts children across the island. 

With this news, my mood has shifted. I still treasure every moment of beauty we saw in Cuba and know that our tourist dollars helped the people since we frequented privately owned stores and restaurants. I also am so proud of our group for bringing giant suitcases full of food, clothes, medicine, personal hygiene products, and more to donate to Cubans. 

But I think of the huge platters of lobster, roasted chicken, and pork that we were served. The massive breakfast buffet at our hotel, with fresh eggs and carafes of milk. If only this bounty wasn’t just reserved for visitors!

Joy and Hardship

I am feeling such deep sadness that our neighbors to the south have to suffer so because of a political impasse that has gone on for 60-plus years. These are beautiful, vibrant people who are wildly artistic (maybe because of the hardships) and joyful (despite the hardships).

I am feeling grateful too that our spectacular guide for the week—the feisty, funny Migdalia—gave us so much background on the history and soul of the country.

Now all of us on the trip understand so much more about the real story and can tell others that Cubans need our friendship, empathy, and grace. 

Returning to the Island

We will offer our Cuba trip again next February (dates already booked), so stay tuned. (Members get first dibs, BTW.) It will be an opportunity to embrace both sides of travel. Yes, I want all NextTribe trips to be fun (and this one certainly was), but one of the most important reasons we travel, I think, is to broaden our minds and open our hearts, leaving the people we meet–and ourselves–transformed in some small way. 

Big hugs to all

Jeannie Ralston, CEO and Co-Founder

P.S. I had a fun time with this Q&A published this week about NextTribe and me.

P.P.S. Feel free to window shop for trips to great destinations! Check out these info sessions for some of our 2024 destinations: