Mildewed colonial architecture and precariously maintained automobiles have become Cuba’s charming and instantly recognizable symbols, yet it is economically impoverished to the point where many fled by any means. As a sign of the times Cuba has recently made tentative new steps towards a slightly freer economic model. In the last year alone the government has issued over 300,000 new small business licences, legalized the private sale of property and lifted foreign travel restrictions for some sections of the population. Perhaps a new vision, ensuing from the demise of an outdated political ideology, could help the country find its way out of the economic quagmire it has been in for the last 50 years. Meanwhile, those who can, will take long holidays.