The Vedado district of Havana expanded rapidly in the 1920’s and 1930’s particularly during the period of prohibition in the United States when Cuba had obvious attractions. Numerous mansions and villas were built, many of which remain – some have been restored, some are in a sorry state of repair but one in particular is retained in its original although now faded splendour. This has been the home of Josie – now in her eighties – since she was married just before the revolution in the 1950’s, in fact her husband was born in the house. During a trip to Havana at the end of last year I was fortunate to be able to visit her house and take some photos. The rooms remain unchanged both in terms of their decor and furnishings from the pre-revolution time and give a wonderful insight into the glamorous existence of the fortunate few before Castro came along.
