As diplomatic ties between the US and Cuba are reestablish, Cubans face a new reality. Pictured: A Cuban woman walking past a mural along San Lazaro Street in Havana
A woman, Gydis Ricardo Vargas (left) feeds her son Wisin some ice cream in the Vedado district of Havana
As
historic talks between the United States and Cuba begin, there is great
hope that the two will be able to successfully restore diplomatic
ties.
Such a step forward marks the end of almost 50 years of Cold War-era hostility between the two countries.
Cuba,
recognised for its architecture and infrastructure of a bygone era, now
faces a new reality, threatening the nation's traditional way of life.
These school children wear red scarves, which is a signature accessory among the socialist youth in the country
The United States flag is already appearing in small ways, including in the clothing - such as head scarves and tights - worn by locals.
It's also expected that with the end of restricted travel between the former Cold War enemies, that Cuba will also gain easier access to the American telecommunications technology, building materials and American food products.
Though currently vintage American convertible cars are often spotted along the Prado boulevard, a wide avenue that runs from Parque Central to the Malecon seafront highway, they may soon be replaced by more modern models.
The United States flag is already beginning to appear in small ways in Havana - like on these tights worn by a woman (right)
Also common in the country, cars that look as though they're from a bygone era, like this gold vintage American convertible car
Individuals dressed in head-to-toe white clothing distinguishes them as a follower of the Santeria faith, like this couple in Habana Vieja
A Cuban couple dances the Tango in the middle of the famous Prado boulevard in Habana Vieja in Havana, Cuba
Several young men engage in a game of football (or soccer, as it's known in Cuba) at the Camilo Cienfuegos Sports Centre in Havana
The rejuvenating of international relations began in December 2014.
President Obama began by announcing a 'new chapter' in US relations with Cuba, with plans announced by the White House include easing access for US citizens, lessening financial restrictions, and lifting the 54-year-old trade embargo.
And while the landmark thaw is relations signals a positive future for Cuba, travellers looking to explore the 'timewarp' nation are being urged to go now, before it changes forever.
As locals lounge nearby, a Cuban couple shows off their traditional dance moves in the middle of the old city of Havana
A common practice to save money, Cuban commuters share taxis during the drive home. Pictured: San Lazaro Street in Havana
A participant in the Havana Triathlon runs past a statue of Jose Marti, a Cuban poet and hero from the 19th century battle of independence from Spain
Vintage American cars - painted in bright colours - park outside some of Habana Vieja's most expensive hotels, offering driving tours
These young men play soccer on the concrete court at the Camilo Cienfuegos Sports Centre, while the sun sets against old buildings
Often, players cut their hair to emulate their favourite soccer players, but their shoes are full of holes and there's only one ball to play with
As part of resuming diplomatic relations with Cuba, the US will soon reopen an embassy in the capital of Havana and carry out high-level exchanges and visits between the governments.
Cubans can now apply for visas to travel to the Unites States, at the U.S. Interests Section building in Havana's Malecon in the district of Vedado, Plaza de la Revolucion.
An elderly couple demonstrates their Tango dance abilities in front of both tourists and locals in the middle of Prado boulevard
Vintage American cars - and a horse-drawn carriage - offer tourists guided tours of the capital city, beginning at about $29
Armed with resourcefulness and ingenuity, a man repairs his classic American car after it broke down along the Prado boulevard
Cubans wait for family members who have gone to apply for visas to the travel to the USA, in a park near the U.S. Interests Section building
Licensed American travelers to Cuba will now be able to return to the US with $400 in Cuban goods, including tobacco and alcohol products worth less than $100 combined. This means the long-standing ban on importing Cuban cigars is over, although there are still limits.
The US is also increasing the amount of money Americans can send to Cubans from $500 to $2,000 per quarter, or every three months. Early in his presidency, Obama allowed unlimited family visits by Cuban-Americans and removed a $1,200 annual cap on remittances. Secretary of State John Kerry is also launching a review of Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terror.
Obama does not have the authority to fully lift the long-standing US economic embargo on Cuba, given that Congress enacted that policy. However, officials said he would welcome lawmakers taking that step.
A participant in the Havana Triathlon competes along the Malecon highway (left) while Cuban school children cross the street in front of the Hotel Saratoga in Havana (right)