Yesterday, President Obama announce that there will be a resumption of normal diplomatic relations with the Island Nation of Cuba. The resumption of diplomatic relations opens the way for Americans to enjoy unrestricted travel to Cuba and bring back the rums and cigars that have been banned from American shores for more than fifty years. This is a big step for the people of Cuba and a first step for those of us that enjoy the fine Cuban Rums produced by the Island that lies just 90 miles to our south.
It is my belief that the Cuban Rum
Industry will be looking at the opportunities to export their spirits to the
United States as soon as possible. The
US was one of the biggest importers of Cuban cigars, sugar and rum during the
pre-embargo years. This is an opportunity
for many Americans to not only visit Cuba, but to experience a marvelous
culture that only a few of us have enjoyed in the past 50 plus years.
From the people at Bacardi, "We
hope for meaningful improvements in the lives of the Cuban people and will
follow any changes with great interest," Bacardi said in an e-mailed
statement. "In the meantime, we continue to support the restoration of
fundamental human rights in Cuba." Bacardi
says it's taking a wait-and-see approach on Cuba after the United States on
Wednesday said it would open an embassy on the island nation following the
release of a U.S. government subcontractor from prison. It marked the most
significant change in the U.S.-Cuba relationship in decades.
This is an important first step and I look forward to the day I'll be able to step on a ferry here in Key west and an hour or two later be arriving in Havana for all the fun and culture that Cuba has to offer. ;o)
