This fall, I entered my 28th year of teaching Spanish to students with learning deficits. Language learning is tough for most people, but for my students, it can be a source of stress and anxiety. Many are often exempt from language courses because it’s seen as too difficult. But I believe the exact opposite. There’s overwhelming evidence that learning a second language enhances so many areas of life—opening doors to new opportunities, expanding cultural awareness, and even improving one’s native language. I’ve spent years fighting for my students to have this opportunity. It just needs to be taught in a way that works for them.
One of the biggest barriers to learning is stress. It doesn’t matter what kind of learner you are—if you’re anxious, your brain shuts down and says, “No, I can’t do this.” That’s why my job is to change that narrative and help them realize, “Yes, you can.”
So, why bring this up in a travel blog? Because I hear a lot of “no” when it comes to Cuba. “No, it’s too difficult.” “No, I don’t want to support the Cuban regime.” These are the same roadblocks we encounter in life when fear or doubt gets in the way.
As women, we’ve been taught to say “no” to protect ourselves, to set boundaries, or to feel in control. And while there’s value in knowing when to say “no,” I believe there’s even more magic in saying “yes.” Saying “yes” leads to growth, discovery, and joy. Yes, I want to learn a new language. Yes, I want to experience a different culture. Yes, I want to see the world.
For me, “yes” has been transformative, especially when it comes to Vidita Travel. Juan Carlos is the heart of this organization, and he is my “yes man.” He’s the one who constantly reassures me, “Yes, it can be done.” His energy and optimism fuel this business. We dream big, and we trust in each other’s ability to make things happen. Together, we’ve built Vidita Travel with a spirit of adventure and an eagerness to keep learning.
Recently, Instagram has become one of our favorite ways to share that “yes” with the world. We want to show people the magic of Cuba, the adventure that’s waiting, and how travel can change lives. So please, follow us, share our content with your friends, and help us spread the word about Cuba. Sharing is how we continue to grow this community of explorers, and your support means everything to us.
In the end, it’s about embracing the magic of “yes.” It’s about the joy of possibilities, the thrill of growth, and the excitement of experiencing something new. So say yes—to learning, to discovery, and to Cuba.
