Cuba
We are travelling back in time to the 1950s to visit the magical country of Cuba. Trapped in a time warp, Cuba’s picturesque towns and cities haven’t changed much since pirates ransacked the Caribbean. Cuba is known for its classic cars, fascinating history, beautiful beaches and crumbling Spanish façades. There is so much to see in this lively and revolutionary country.
Old Havana
La Habana Vieja (Old Havana) was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Walk around this charming district and admire its pastel-coloured buildings, the classic convertible cars and the live street music which you can find on every corner.
Go to a Paladar, a family-owned restaurant serving authentic, homemade Cuban food. Traditional dishes are influenced by a mix of African, Spanish and Caribbean delicacies. Try Picadillo (beef mince, capers, olives and raisins), Ropa Viejo (shredded beef and vegetables) or a black bean soup, followed by Maduros (sweet fried bananas) for a delicious, mouthwatering treat!
El Malecón
Built in the early 1900s, El Malecón is one of Havana’s most soulful and quintessentially Cuban streets with a mishmash of striking Spanish architecture, waterfront views overlooking the Havana seaside and over 5 miles of great people watching opportunities. The whole city seems to come here to socialise, bringing life and energy to the city’s most authentic open-air theatre!
The Beaches
Rent a classic car and go to the beach! Varadero is a popular resort town with ivory-white sand beaches where you can go kayaking, sailing, snorkelling or scuba diving! Other beaches to visit include Playa Larga and the Bay of Pigs.
Parque Nacional De Viñales
Viñales looks a lot like the set of Jurassic Park with lush green mogotes and plantations surrounded by impressive, rugged mountains. You can go hiking, horseback riding and rock climbing here as well as visit old plantations, dodge crocodile-infested swamps and walk through rainforests filled with an incredible array of endemic species.
Trinidad
Trinidad was the epicentre of the Spanish sugar trade in the 18th century but today is a gorgeous town with traditional cobblestoned streets and pastel-coloured buildings. Go and watch a salsa dancing show at Casa de la Musica or visit the nearby Playa Ancon, a beautiful arc of white sand on Cuba’s south coast.
Museo de la Revolución
Back in Havana, get a glimpse into Cuba’s revolutionary history at the Museo de la Revolución. Learn about major players in the Cuban Revolution including Fidel Castro and Che Guevara as well as getting a greater understanding of how the country has changed over time.