Cubans have rushed to the shops to buy DVD players and electric bikes that went on sale for the first time, as new President Raul Castro lifted sales restrictions.

For the first time since the glorious revolution, stores were allowed to sell dozens of electric goods that were previously banned, including microwave ovens, flat-screen televisions and even computers.

While goods such as Philips and Panasonic DVD players were much more expensive than in other countries they were still undercutting Cuba's thriving black market. Cubans are now also allowed to buy mobile phones and stay at hotels previously reserved for foreigners.

More here.