To understand the significance of what is happening in U.S./Cuba relations it is important to know one thing: no President of the U.S. can unilaterally lift the embargo. Under the provisions of the 1996 Helms-Burton Act only an act of Congress can lift the embargo.
Analysis for the New York Times By David Gonzalez: "If you spend enough time talking with people in Cuba, there is a phrase you are sure to hear: No es fácil — it’s not easy."
I was in Cuba in December when Raul Castro and President Obama made their joint announcements regarding rapprochement. It was noted by many that Fidel was uncharacteristically silent on the issue.
NPR: "President Obama announced today the most significant change in U.S. policy toward Cuba in more than 50 years, paving the way for the normalization of relations and the opening of a U.S. Embassy in Havana."
Huffington Post: "U.S. President Barack Obama sat down with Cuban President Raul Castro on Saturday, the first substantial meeting between the countries' leaders in more than 50 years."
New York Times: "The river where Jonas Echevarria fishes cuts through neighborhoods brimming with new fine restaurants, spas and boutiques, springing up in Cuba’s accelerating push toward private enterprise."
In 1999, UNESCO declared the Vinales valley a World Heritage Site, in the category of Cultural Landscape.
BBC: "Santeria (Way of the Saints) is an Afro-Caribbean religion based on Yoruba beliefs and traditions, with some Roman Catholic elements added. The religion is also known as La Regla Lucumi and the Rule of Osha."