The iconic television host Don Francisco shared with his followers on Instagram a heartwarming visit to Little Havana in Miami, where he enjoyed an afternoon at the famous Domino Park.
Accompanied by a diverse "life family," which included truck drivers, carpenters, and a waitress who worked in the world of animation in Cuba, Don Francisco joined a game of dominoes, although he confessed that he doesn't play very well.
However, more than just a simple recreational activity, the host emphasized that dominoes in this park is not only a game but also a tradition that brings people together, fosters friendship, and preserves the history of the place.
"Today I went to the heart of Little Havana: Calle 8 and its famous Domino Park. I don't play very well, but I came to chat… and I met a vibrant family of life, among truck drivers, carpenters, waitresses, and even a cartoon artist," Don Francisco shared in his post, adding a touch of nostalgia and reflection.
"Here, dominoes are not just a game; they are tradition, friendship, and a rich history," he added, inviting his followers to comment on whether they have ever visited the park.
In a video that accompanied his post, Don Francisco appeared relaxed and friendly, enjoying the company of the locals and the stories that emerge around the gaming tables.
Although he is not considered an expert in the game, his presence created a warm and friendly atmosphere, highlighting the human connection that is forged in these spaces.
Don Francisco and his relationship with Cuba
This reunion with the Cuban community in Miami takes on even greater significance when considering the special bond the Chilean entertainer has had with Cuba throughout his career.
In May 2024, Don Francisco revealed that, although he has never visited the Island, he feels he knows it deeply thanks to all the years he worked with Cubans.
"The only country I don't know is Cuba, and it’s the one I know the most", he commented in a conversation with wildlife photographer Ron Magill.
Throughout his career, the host has been a familiar face for Cubans, despite government restrictions. His programs "Sábado Gigante" and "Don Francisco presenta" were watched clandestinely on the Island.
"I know everything from the auctions in Guane to… I know all the stories," affirmed the famous Chilean, who decided not to travel to Cuba due to political tensions and his respect for the Cuban exile community in Miami.
In several interviews, Don Francisco has expressed his desire to visit Cuba someday, acknowledging the significant influence of the Island on his life, while maintaining the same respect he has shown throughout his career by not getting involved in political issues.
"I never traveled to Cuba because there is a very large Cuban community in Miami that has its own problems and pain, and I never wanted to interfere with that," he said in 2023.
A dream to fulfill: Traveling to Cuba
The 84-year-old host has made it clear that, although he has not physically traveled to Cuba, he knows its culture, stories, and experiences through the narratives of those who have lived it.
In 2023, he expressed his desire to visit the Caribbean country, especially to relive the past of the Cubans who emigrated and see the Island through their eyes.
"My dream was to one day go to Cuba with 10 people who left 50 years ago and return to the places where they were children, where they went to school, where they had their first kiss," shared Don Francisco, who continues to connect with his audience through his social media content and his interview program on YouTube.
Don Francisco, more active than ever
Although retired from television, Don Francisco remains an active figure in the digital world, sharing his experiences and reflections through social media.
Additionally, his interview program on YouTube allows him to stay connected with his audience by sharing stories and perspectives from his unique worldview.
His visit to the Domino Park is just one example of how Don Francisco's legacy continues to grow, beyond the screen, by maintaining his connection with the community and continuing to celebrate the traditions that have greatly marked his career.
Frequently Asked Questions about Don Francisco's Visit to Little Havana and His Connection to Cuba
Why did Don Francisco visit the Domino Park in Little Havana?
Don Francisco visited the Domino Park to engage with the Cuban community and enjoy a tradition that brings people together through play and conversation. Although he doesn't play very well, he emphasized the cultural and social importance of dominoes in this iconic space of Miami.
What is Don Francisco's relationship with Cuba?
Don Francisco has a special connection with Cuba, even though he has never visited the Island. Throughout his career, he has worked with many Cubans, and his programs were popular in Cuba, despite government restrictions. He has expressed his desire to visit Cuba one day to experience firsthand the stories and experiences of its people.
What does dominoes symbolize for the Cuban community in Miami?
Domino is a symbol of tradition and social connection for the Cuban community in Miami. In places like Domino Park, the game transcends mere recreation to become a meeting space, where friendship is fostered and the cultural history of Cubans in exile is preserved.
Why hasn't Don Francisco traveled to Cuba?
Don Francisco has not traveled to Cuba out of respect for the Cuban exile community in Miami. He has decided not to engage in political issues and prefers not to influence the problems and pains faced by this community. His decision reflects a respect for the political and social tensions affecting Cubans in exile.
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