Speculations

Cuba's greatest problems are housing (literally falling apart), transportation (ditto) and an aging population. Cuban couples average less than 2 children, so fewer young adults will be supporting an increasing number of older ones in a system that guarantees full retirement for life at the government's expense. 

So, what would happen if Cuba were to become accessible to us again for full travel and trade? What would happen if the embargo were lifted? All of us speculated on the impact, concluding that Cubans, themselves, may be naive about the power of money to influence change. 

First, the government would need to assure businesses that they wouldn't be nationalized and lose everything as they did in 1959-60. Assuming that they can, as they've done with other countries that manage hotels, we expect to see a Habana Marriott, Hilton and even a Holiday Inn within a very short time. The McDonalds would come next, and Jay Leno would visit with other car collectors to get their fill of those precious old tanks that roam the streets. How soon before pickpockets are no longer the greatest threat?

The living conditions of people would improve, but the government would struggle to maintain a firm grip on ideology. Perhaps China could serve as a model, who knows? Regardless, the Cuban charm we saw in this trip would be modified, yet if the people would have better lives, the change would be for the best. It's not a simple problem, though, and as all  complex sociopolitical issues, both countries must consider the impact before embracing a new relationship.