“We see no virtue in perpetual antagonism between the United States and Cuba.”
— Henry Kissinger
“There really is no way to bridge the gap between our positions.”
— Robert Pastor
“I believe in the upward, forward trajectory of humankind. But I do not believe that it is a straight and steady line.”
— President Barack Obama
“As we age, we learn that there is no single universal truth or logic; every culture cherishes its own narrative.”
— Max Hastings

For Abroadia the four quotes listed above serve as reference points regarding various viewpoints as they pertain to Cuba and its relation to the United States. Henry Kissinger, US secretary of state from 1973-1977, oscillated between taking a hard line against Cuba and engaging with that country. His quote comes from a 1975 speech he delivered in Houston. Robert Pastor was staff director at the Commission on U.S.-Latin American Relations from 1975-1977 and in his quote expresses his frustration with trying to establish rapprochement with Cuba. Former President Barack Obama’s statement is a more broad assessment of what we all aspire to and the historian Max Hastings observes what may be the most difficult obstacle to overcome when two countries try to work with each other.

Whether you will study in Cuba on a summer program or experience it through a short-term faculty-led encounter, we hope that you will keep these quotes in mind. Perhaps you can add a quote of your own!

SUMMER PROGRAM-2025

Dates: May 25-June 6, 2025

Application deadline: February 14, 2025

Program cost: $3,000 for homestay double accommodations; $3,170 for homestay single accommodations. Daily breakfast and dinner included.

Program: Students will take daily Spanish classes combined with explorations of exciting historical and cultural sites in Havana. Students should have at least one semester’s worth of Spanish to facilitate interactions with Cubans.

Havana- Founded in 1515, Havana, named after the Taíno leader Habaguanex, has attracted the attention of explorers, pirates, navigators, statesmen and so many others. Cuba’s unique geographic location made it the ideal bridge between the Old and New Worlds. With a population of 2 million people, Havana represents a vibrant setting replete with a sweeping and stirring sense of history.