Not A Better World

January 1, 2009 is the 50th anniversary of the Cuban Revolution. You've heard of eco-tourism, but are you ready for Marxo-tourism?

This would be funny if it weren't so sad. Notice how little difference there is between political propaganda and a press release from the chamber of commerce.

"Celebrate five decades of resilience, progress, allegiance to peace and social equality with the people of Cuba

Witness the stellar achievements of the Revolution first hand

Saturday 27 December 2008 through Saturday 3 January 2009

Five days in Havana and three days in Trinidad for the best of island dance, music, culture, art, nature and history

Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience – a moment in history for reflection, rejuvenation, enjoyment and new friendships

Today millions optimistically follow the course of the Cuban Revolution, which despite hardships resulting from sanctions and blockade, is as dynamic as ever. This tour is for those who believe a green, healthy, educated, people-first way of life is the hallmark of civilization. It is for people who think as Cubans do, and say: Yes, we can make a better world and have a good time doing so!"

Gerald Warner, writing in the Telegraph, has a less enthusiastic view of 50 years of revolution:

"During his "five decades of resilience, progress, allegiance to peace and social equality", Castro has executed 16,000 people and imprisoned more than 100,000 in labour camps. The Western media are greatly exercised about Guantanamo; but few have heard of Kilo 5.5, Pinar del Rio, Kilo 7, the Capitiolo (for children up to age 10) and the other camps that compose Castro's gulag. Two million Cubans have by now rejected the resilience and progress of Castro's revolution and more than 30,000 have died trying to escape."