The Full Story
Why Cuba?
During a period of deep family estrangement, when I struggled to believe that life could ever feel joyful again, I traveled to Cuba in June of 2017 with my best friend María to meet her family and childhood friends. With each return trip, my appreciation for the history, culture, food and people deepened.
While I continued to carry grief for my daughter, I also began to rediscover that it was still possible to experience moments of meaning, beauty, and connection. The warmth of the Cuban people helped me remember that my life was not over—it was simply changing.
Cuba is where I came to accept that, with or without reunification, l wanted to live fully. I made the decision to use the love I had for my daughter to create something meaningful—something that could uplift others: supporting Cubans economically, those experiencing estrangement emotionally and all of us soulfully.
From November 2023 through July 2025, Maria and I committed ourselves to making this vision come to life. We created a Cuban-based website so the business could operate independently of US restrictions, restored her father’s ’57 Chevy for private transportation and built relationships for philanthropic, win-win experiences—something deeply important to both of us.
Cuba as a Teacher
For those living with the loss that comes from estrangement, it is easy to focus on what is broken and unfair. Cuba offers a different lens. It is a living lesson in resilience, perseverance and resourcefulness in the face of profound limitations--much like estrangement.
Beyond the strength of its people, the island itself offers quiet restoration. The ocean, the tropical forests and the wide , undeveloped landscapes create space to breath, reflect and soften grief. Being in nature--away from constant construction and noise--allows the nervous system to settle and the heart to open once again.
Experiencing the peace of nature while witnessing Cubans meet daily challenges with strength and grace reminds us what matters most: connection to nature, to ourselves, and to one another, and caring for each other in times of need.
Current Status
At this time, Cuba is facing serious economic, political, health and travel challenges. After careful consideration we have decided to pause our retreat offerings.
When conditions improve, we look forward to welcoming you—traveling with you in our lovingly restored Chevy—so you can experience the warmth, beauty and healing spirit of the island.
Maria will prepare organic, healthy, traditional meals. I will connect you to Cubans who will welcome you as family. You will leave with gratitude, renewed perspective and the knowledge that your visit made a meaningful, positive impact.
Note: At this time our Cuban website (greatdamesexperiences.com) is not publicly accessible due to recent changes in U.S. regulations that further restrict digital and financial connections with Cuba.
