Do yourself a favor and look up the James Risen case, ongoing now.
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I'm not trying to convince you. You should take a trip to Cuba if you can, like millions do every year - and they write about their experiences all over the inter-web. When you go, you can rent a car (an economy size European or Asian models) and go pretty much anywhere. Gas is pricey, but doable. You don't need hotel reservations. You can simply wing it and find some of the most beautiful countryside, beaches, and wonderful Cuban people all the way. You can freely interact, ask them what you want. See plenty of schools, municipal centers, churches, and all of the stuff one can see on a Caribbean vacation. Really, its the only way to cut through the BS on either side of debating Castro, et al. Go. See what the Cubans in Cuba have to say. See for yourself. It's worth it's weight in gold. I lived there. Visit my family there. I'm sure you'll re-evaluate some of your ideas.
Sorry we got off on a bad footing. I wish you the best.
Cheers. 
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