In this inspiring episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, I sit down with Dr. Veronica Flake, a Philadelphia native and global health advocate who studied medicine in one of the most unexpected places—Cuba.

We explore how six transformative years at the Latin American School of Medicine in Havana shaped her into the compassionate, community-minded physician she is today. From overcoming language barriers to learning medicine with minimal resources, Dr. Flake shares how Cuba’s human-centered approach to healthcare redefined what it means to be a doctor.

🌍 In this episode, we discuss:

• Why Dr. Flake chose to study medicine in Cuba
• What it’s really like to live and train in Havana
• How the Cuban medical system fosters global empathy and clinical excellence
• Cultural shocks, resilience, and adjusting to life off the grid
• The lifelong impact of immersive, international education
• Lessons she still uses in her practice today—from bedside manner to public health

Whether you're interested in global education, medicine, or just love a story of personal growth through travel, this episode will leave you both informed and inspired.

🔗 Resources & Mentions:

• Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM) – Havana, Cuba
• Documentary Recommendation: ¡Salud! – A film that sparked Dr. Flake’s journey
• Previous Episode: Interview with Dr. Gigi Simmons

💬 Connect With Us:

• Website: nostalgictravelco.com
• Instagram: @nostalgictravelco
• Facebook Group: Nostalgic Travel Tips

✨ Meta Description (SEO-Optimized):

Discover how Dr. Veronica Flake’s experience studying medicine in Cuba transformed her into a more empathetic, resourceful doctor. An inspiring story of global health, cultural immersion, and medical education beyond borders.

💬 Episode Description:

In this special mother-daughter edition of Nostalgic Travel Talks, Cheryl and Brittany transport you to the lush gardens and sun-kissed streets of Cuernavaca, Mexico—La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera.

From Aztec origins and Hernán Cortés’ imposing palace to French emperors and vibrant local traditions, Cuernavaca offers a colorful tapestry of history and culture. We reminisce about sipping Mexican hot chocolate, wandering botanical gardens, peacocks at lunch, and even that unforgettable climb up the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacán. (Yes, even four-year-old Brittany made it to the top!)

Whether you're a history buff, foodie, Spanish learner, or simply dreaming of your next warm-weather escape, this episode is your invitation to discover why Cuernavaca should be on your travel list.

✈️ Ready to explore? Hit play and let’s go!
In This Episode:

• Why Cuernavaca is known as “The City of Eternal Spring”
• A brief but rich history from the Aztecs to Hernán Cortés and the French Empire
• Must-visit historical sites: Palacio de Cortés, Maximilian & Carlota’s summer retreat, and Teotihuacán
• Favorite local experiences: tamales in the morning, gardens with peacocks, movie theaters with bees (!), and heartwarming host family memories
• Spanish immersion programs at Cuauhnahuac Language School
• Nearby cultural gems: Mexico City, Taxco, Xochimilco, Acapulco
• Travel tips: when to go, where to stay, and how to get there from Mexico City
• Fun rapid-fire travel questions at the end!

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about the legend of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes https://www.inside-mexico.com/the-legend-of-popocatepetl-iztaccihuatl/#google_vignette
• Nostalgic Travel – https://nostalgictravelco.com

🎧 Listen, Subscribe & Share:

If this episode stirred your wanderlust, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! It helps others discover the joy of traveling through stories.

📸 Been to Cuernavaca? Tag us in your photos or DM your memories—we’d love to feature them!

What’s it like to study medicine in Cuba? In this episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, host Cheryl Johnson sits down with Dr. Gigi Simmons, a U.S. physician who studied medicine at the Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM) in Cuba. They explore the cultural, educational, and emotional journey that shaped her medical career. From free education and universal healthcare to bunk bed dorms and Cuban pizzas, Dr. Simmons gives us a real, raw, and inspiring look into global learning. Tune in to discover how travel can expand not just your worldview—but your heart.

Show Notes:

Guest: Dr. Gigi Simmons, M.D. – Primary Care & Addiction Medicine Specialist

Topics Covered:

• The unconventional path from nail tech dreams to doctor goals
• How the movie John Q sparked a passion for medicine
• The application process for studying in Cuba (no MCAT required!)
• Living and learning at ELAM: dorm life, public health, and clinical rotations
• Navigating a new culture, a new language, and even public showers
• The impact of Cuba’s universal healthcare system on Dr. Simmons' philosophy
• Stories from her mother’s visit to Cuba and parental perspective
• Cultural galas, salsa dancing, and soul food abroad
• Training in underserved communities and the power of prevention
• How Cuban medical education compares to U.S. systems

Rapid Fire Round Highlights:

• Cuban pizza = study fuel
• Most shocking cultural moment? Toilet paper in the trash!
• Favorite medical memory: late-night ER shifts and real patient connection

Episode Quote: “In Cuba, medicine isn’t just a job—it’s a community commitment. That shaped me as a doctor, and as a person.”

Want to explore travel that transforms? Visit nostalgictravelco.com for immersive journeys that go beyond the brochure.

Listen to More Episodes: https://nostalgictravelco.com/podcasts

FAQs:

Q: Is a Cuban medical degree valid in the U.S.?
Yes! Graduates from ELAM must pass U.S. licensing exams like any international medical graduate, but the degree is valid.

Q: Is the education really free?
Yes—for qualifying international students. Cuba provides tuition, housing, and meals, in exchange for a commitment to serve underserved communities.

Q: Is Spanish fluency required?
Not initially. Students take immersive language courses in Spanish before starting medical coursework.

Q: How long is the program?
6 to 7 years, including Spanish language training and full clinical rotations.

Q: Can Americans still study in Cuba today?
Yes, through programs like IFCO/Pastors for Peace, though regulations and travel requirements may change.

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