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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Galeabo Park has become a gathering place for dozens of Cubans who are taking advantage of WiFi access, Aug. 13, 2015. (Celia Mendoza/VOA)
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A working-class kitchen is seen in a Havana home, Aug. 13, 2015. New refrigerators are sometimes given out by the government. (Celia Mendoza/VOA)
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Laundry is placed to dry on ropes installed on almost every balcony in Havana, Cuba, Aug. 13, 2015. (Celia Mendoza/VOA)
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"Caballito" is the name given by Cuban people to police motorcycles like this one parked in front of the Museo de la Revolucion (Museum of the Revolution) in Havana, Aug. 13, 2015. (Celia Mendoza/VOA)