Havana is a vibrant mix of history, phenomenal art, nature, and stunning landscapes with the most relaxing atmosphere in Cuba. One thing is for sure; you’ll never be bored during your stay here. So, in this article, we are going to tell you a few reasons why Havana should be high on your itinerary during your visit to Cuba.
Havana is exploding with culture
There is so much culture to unravel at every turn in Havana. It is quite different from its Caribbean neighbours, who are primarily former Dutch, French and British colonies. In fact, the unique characteristics and history come from half a century of American influences as well as its links with the socialist world post-1959 and the effects of globalisation. Due to this, you can explore the buildings, monuments, music and street art that reflects this.
Havana’s Museum of arts
Havana is a great base to explore stunning nearby destinations
Of course, there is so much to see and do in Havana, but some of the most majestic places in Cuba are just outside the capital. The stunning cities of Varadero and Pinar del Rio are ideal for day trips, especially as it means you don’t have to book additional accommodation. Pinar del Rio has the iconic Valley of Vinales, one of Cuba’s most popular tourist attractions. Soak in the most mesmerising views of mogotes, which are rounded towering karst hills dotted along the valley. You can also explore the breathtaking caves, like the Cueva del Indio, which is more accessible for tourists, especially via boat.
Discover the repair culture of Havana
Cubans are resourceful, which has become apparent over the years, with so many periods of shortages and lack of parts but with a need to keep appliances and equipment working. You can see this from the iconic Cuban cars that have been re-assembled and bought back to life with a mismatch of spare parts. This can also be seen in how lighters are refilled, shoes are sewn, and how blenders, clothes and smartphones are repaired.
Immerse yourself in the Cuban music scene
Buena Vista Social Club is the most popular band in Cuba, with so many of the songs created being used as the repertoire of the majority of Cuban bands that play in the bars and tourist attractions in Havana. In Havana, you can get your groove on to many musical styles, such as salsa, rumba and even more modern influences like reggaeton and electronic music. Music lovers must have Havana on their bucket list.
Explore the pristine beaches
If you want to mix your city break with sea and sand, you’re lucky because Havana is just 10-minutes away from Playas del Este. This long stretch of white-sand beach is perfect for swimming, scuba-diving and lazy days on the sands. You can also rent catamarans and jet skis to explore the azure waters up close.
Try a traditional Cuban cigar
Cuban cigars are famous around the globe for being the best in the world. They are known for their exceptional quality and history of being forbidden and part of a trade embargo in Cuba. Whilst in Cuba, you can visit one of the many tobacco plantations for a guided tour. Exploring everything from the crops in the fields to the production. The plantations in Pinar del Rio are the ideal place to go if you’re staying in Havana. If you don’t plan to leave the city, you can go to the factory of Partagas Cigar Factory.
Explore the local architecture
There is so much stunning architecture to uncover, whether that’s the imposing colonial stone fortresses or the 20th-century constructions. Take in the baroque and art Deco buildings, churches, homes and squares and government buildings.
El Cabana Fortress
Have a history lesson
Havana is the centre of politics in Cuba, so you can explore the most incredible public squares and government buildings where massive historical events and movements have occurred. Explore everything from the Revolution Square, where Fidel Castro made some of his most powerful speeches that changed Cuban history or the Anti-Imperialist Grandstand, where Cuba demanded the release of a child named Elian Gonzalez.
Havana is one of the most vibrant, lively and historic places to stay in Cuba, which is why it is an absolute must on anyone’s visit to Cuba.
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