U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry raised the American flag on Friday over the U.S Embassy in Cuba's capital, marking the ceremonial re-opening of the diplomatic facility after the two countries agreed to restore ties that were severed over 50 years ago. VOA strolled Havana's streets ahead of Kerry's arrival to check the mood among residents.
Life in Havana
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Street art and a reliable transportation method in Cuba, Aug. 13, 2015. (Celia Mendoza/VOA)
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Men stand on the balcony of a house in Havana which is being condemned by the government due to its condition, Aug. 13, 2015. (Celia Mendoza/VOA).
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Little brothers play in a public park in Havana, Cuba, Aug. 13, 2015. (Celia Mendoza/ VOA)
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An image of Hugo Chavez is seen in street art, Havana, Cuba, Aug. 13, 2015. (Celia Mendoza/VOA)