Tropicana Nights: The Life and Times of the Legendary Cuban Nightclub

by Rosa Lowinger

“Oh, no, no. The Prince didn’t bring the lion to Cuba,” said Ofelia, laughing. “One night he came to Tropicana. I don’t remember what country he was from. He was at my table. I was translating his conversation for Martín. At one point I made a comment on the beauty and majesty of the animals on his continent. And he asked me, ‘Which animal is your favorite?’ That was easy, because I’ve always been passionate about cats, especially lions. Bueno, one month later, this crate arrived for me at the port. Inside was a little baby cachorrito [cub], the cutest thing you’ve ever seen. It was love at first sight. I used to take him for rides in my convertible when he was a cub. Later he got too big and had to stay home. The nannies in the neighborhood would bring the children to see him.”