I often see that from crackers, they complain that NK looks stuck in like the 70's and gee I bet that has something to do with the fucking embargo the country's been under since it's inception like you said.
My coworkers know I'm going to Cuba next month and one said it's a shame I'm bringing my GF and said they'd just sit back with mojitos, a cigar, and a prostitute.
There also aren't brands and advertisements everywhere, plus urban areas usually seem sensibly designed. Americans are terrified if they don't know where the closest Taco Bell is.