Novel way applied to promote vegan message in Cuba

Dressing in bikinis adorned by lettuce leaves, models took over a central street in Havana on Thursday to encourage Cubans and visitors to turn vegan.

These famous "Lettuce Ladies" from a U.S. animal rights organization walked and posed for photos in the famous Havana Obispo street, showing audience the tips on how to save animals, get healthy, and protect environment by going vegan.

They handed out kits to vegan starter, which includes recipes for delicious vegan versions of traditional Cuban dishes, such as croquetas, pinchos and more.

"We are here to send a message to everyone to extend their compassion for animals and not eat them and opt for a vegan life," said Kiara Benack, one of the models of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

It is the first time for the PETA to come to Cuba to promote vegan after travel restrictions being eased between the United States and Cuba.

Although Cubans don't eat much meat because of its high price, the initiative was welcomed by locals. They came to take photos, talk to the girls and collect the explanatory brochures.

Juan Gonzalez, a young college student, said she was interested in "anything that has to do with vegans." Endit