Residents who traveled in Cuba during the winter describe the Communist nation as a place of crumbling infrastructure and pollution, but also of rich culture and friendly people.

Cynde Adams and Bart Henderson spent two weeks exploring the capital and participating in the salsa dance scene. Tod Sebens bicycled more than 620 miles across the island nation in 25 days.

To meet travel restrictions, the couple went as part of an “educational exchange.” Sebens used…