I still remember the moment I stepped off the plane, leaving the airport and heading to our living space in Havana.

As I stared out the window, I was overwhelmed. At first glance, I saw vibrant buildings, welcoming people, and countless vintage 60s cars lining the streets. But on a closer look, the buildings were dilapidated, some people were visibly unwell, and their eyes revealed the hardships of life. The colorful vintage cars emitted a strong smell of engine oil, making me feel like they were either already broken or on the verge of breaking down. I had no idea what the days ahead would hold, but I felt so ready to take long walks and explore these: Forgotten Places.

In the intro, I also want to share how I came up with its title, Echoes of Cuba. I visited Cuba twice in 2024—first in March and then again in June. That first experience, as described above, left a deep impression on me. The moments I spent in Cuba felt like echoes, reverberating in my mind even after I went back home to Chicago. These echoes inspired my second solo trip to Cuba. Even as I write this now, I am already looking forward to visiting again—and that’s where the name Echoes of Cuba comes from.