These photos are from the Havana´s Chinatown.
For years, I’ve had a friend of Chinese descent. Her family was in charge of several projects in Havana’s Chinatown.
Recently, we got in touch and decided to meet up to catch up. What I didn’t expect was to be invited to the heart of Chinatown.
It had been years since I walked these streets. It was a mixed feeling—joy at seeing an old friend and sadness at how diminished Chinatown has become.
My grandmother used to tell me that there were hundreds of eateries along these streets, where the Chinese prepared complete meals (at a very low price), whether they were Creole dishes or, if you preferred, Chinese.
They say that the famous fried rice originated here (though I’m not sure how true that is).
As a child, I used to spend my weekends here with friends. It was a place where there was always something to learn.
One day, they taught us that, just like we do today, the Chinese arrived in Cuba (in the late 19th century). They came in search of job opportunities and, above all, to improve their lives.
They didn’t only come from China; the vast majority came from the United States, fleeing discrimination.
At first, they were mostly exploited on sugar plantations. Later, they created their own businesses. They brought their culture and customs.
Over time, the community grew and prospered throughout the island. In my city, they settled in this area, where they helped develop one of the poorest neighborhoods in the city.
The Chinese became an important part of Cuba’s economy and culture.
Chinatown was one of the liveliest places.
It seems those times are behind us.
So much so that this Chinatown has become the first Chinatown in the world where no Chinese live.
But don’t let this stop you from joining me in exploring this peculiar neighborhood.
Tomorrow, I’ll bring you a post where I’ll show you a bit of China in Havana.
If you want to see more details, you know what to do: follow me or bookmark me so you don’t miss tomorrow’s post.
Remember: The Chinatown that has no Chinese
Read you soon!
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