Tracks Ahead Season 5 Episode 8 Trains of Cuba

In the eighth episode of the fifth season of Tracks Ahead, viewers are taken on a journey through Cuba to explore the island's historic and iconic trains. The episode begins with an overview of the country's railway system, which was largely established by the Spanish during colonization. We learn that while the train system was once extensive and efficient, years of neglect and lack of funds have left many of the trains in disrepair.

One of the first stops on the episode's itinerary is Havana's Central Station, which was built in 1912 and serves as a testament to the island's railroad heritage. We are introduced to the station's chief train dispatcher, an experienced railroader who shows us around the station and talks about the challenges facing Cuban rail travel today.

The program then takes us on a ride through the countryside on one of the few tourist trains that remain operational in Cuba. The train travels through breathtaking landscapes and tiny, idyllic Cuban villages, giving viewers a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for decades.

Throughout the episode, we meet numerous Cubans who have a deep passion for the country's trains and railways, and who are working hard to keep the trains running and the industry alive. One individual is a former train driver who now works as a tour guide, sharing his knowledge and love of the train system with visitors from around the world. Another is an engineer who has dedicated his life to preserving and restoring vintage steam trains, which he lovingly refers to as "his babies."

Viewers also get to see a behind-the-scenes look at the mechanical shops where trains are repaired and maintained. This is where we learn about the inventive and resourceful ways in which Cuban engineers and mechanics have managed to keep the trains running despite the lack of funds and modern equipment.

Perhaps the most moving segments of the episode are interviews with Cuban passengers and train enthusiasts, who speak eloquently about the vital importance of the trains to the country's culture and way of life. For many rural Cubans, trains are not just a mode of transportation but a lifeline that connects them to resources and opportunities they would otherwise be cut off from.

Overall, the Tracks Ahead episode "Trains of Cuba" is a tribute to the resilience, passion, and ingenuity of the Cuban people and their railroad heritage. Through gorgeous cinematography, engaging interviews, and an inspiring message of hope, the episode leaves viewers with a deep appreciation for the trains of Cuba and the people who keep them moving.