Belize-N-Us,

From what I understand, the Cuban peso is so devalued that most people on the island have an extremely difficult time paying for their most basic needs. While Castro may have granted them access to cell phones and TVs, many residents have nowhere near the means to afford those things.

I have to agree with Elbert that the travel restrictions are also a cosmetic change. Your average everyday Cuban is not going to be able to afford to go anywhere. Raul can say that every Cuban is allowed to buy a Mercedes, but that doesn't mean much to people who can barely afford toothpaste.

I agree that most Cubans do not want to leave their country. Many have a connection, just as I have a connection to the US. I know its not perfect, but no place is.