New York University, Tisch Study Abroad: Postcards from Cuba

For centuries, travelers have been documenting their journeys to parts unknown. The travel narrative is the “oldest in the world” says travel writer, Paul Theroux. This course examines the history of travel literature and photography, while also challenging each student to document his/her first hand experience of travel to Cuba. We will reference a wide range of forms: the essay, the report, the journal, the novel, film, the photograph, and photo essay. We will also explore different points of entry: ethnographer, mapmaker, geographical explorer, photographer, adventurer, social activist and tourist. In doing so, we will hone in on principles of travel writing and photography, along with basic guidelines governing the interaction between word and image. Memory and history as essential components will inform our conversation. The course will include site visits to 2 locations, exposing the student to everyday life in a rich and complex culture, in addition to brief weekly “walkabouts” to nearby neighborhoods. Students will be asked to document their travel experience in word and image into form worthy of a reader.